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China's homegrown C919 jet to make Middle East debut at Dubai Airshow

Xinhua) 09:50, November 15, 2025

Crew members of a China Southern Airlines C919 aircraft pose for a group photo with the plane at Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Nov. 14, 2025. (China Southern Airlines/Handout via Xinhua)

DUBAI, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- A China Southern Airlines C919 aircraft arrived at Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai early on Friday for its debut at the 2025 Dubai Airshow, according to the airline.

The plane, developed by Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd. (COMAC), landed at the airport at 1:15 a.m. local time on Friday (2115 GMT Thursday), ahead of the airshow scheduled from Nov. 17 to 21.

The aircraft will be showcased for the first time in the Middle East at the event, one of the world's largest aviation exhibitions.

Two other COMAC-produced aircraft will also be on display at the show.

This photo taken on Nov. 14, 2025 shows a China Southern Airlines C919 aircraft at Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE). (China Southern Airlines/Handout via Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Liang Jun)
The Difficult Cases 2.0 conference will be held in Uzhhorod

On December 20, 2025, one of the key events of the year in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery will take place in Uzhhorod  the Live Surgery Transcarpathian: Difficult Cases 2.0 conference.

The organizer is the Lita Plus plastic surgery clinic, with the support of UPRADAS  Ukrainian Plastic Reconstructive Aesthetic Dermatosurgeons Association.

The event will bring together more than 100 plastic and reconstructive surgeons, dermatologists, and dermatosurgeons from all over Ukraine to share practical experience, discuss complex clinical cases, and present new approaches to treatment.

During the conference, cases of reconstructive surgery performed by the military will be analyzed.

In addition to the main scientific program, participants can expect discussion panels, practical case studies, and professional networking.

A space for real learning

For the second time, the Difficult Cases 2.0 conference will be a unique platform for lively professional dialogue, where more than 20 speakers will analyze clinical cases from their own practice, complex cases, and solutions.

We have created a format where doctors can learn from other doctors. This is what shapes the new quality of medicine  when the professional environment does not compete, but develops together, notes Sergey Derbak, founder of the Lita Plus clinic and president of the UPRADAS association.

Speakers at the event include Sergey Derbak, Ruslan Gumenny, Alexander Karpinsky, Ilya Kirichenko, Alexander Turkevich, Sergey Romanyuk, Vladimir Shapovaluk, Evgeny Simulik, Denis Pominchuk, Alexander Pasechnik, Vasily Pasechnik, Anna Barinova, Irina Shmygina, and other leading surgeons of Ukraine.

Transcarpathia  a center for professional development

Traditionally, the event will take place in Uzhhorod, at the Camelot hotel complex.

Transcarpathia is becoming an important hub for the development of medical education. It is a place that combines tranquility, focus, and community  exactly what is needed for professional growth, comments Alexander Karpinsky, plastic surgeon at the Lita Plus clinic.

Support from UPRADAS

The conference is supported by the UPRADAS association, which brings together plastic, reconstructive, aesthetic, and dermatological surgeons from Ukraine.

The association promotes the development of postgraduate education, the improvement of surgical standards, and the integration of Ukrainian doctors into the international professional community.

We support events that shape not only knowledge but also the culture of communication between specialists. Difficult Cases is exactly the format that changes the approach to medical education, notes Sergey Derbak.

Medicine for life

In addition to its educational value, the conference has a charitable mission  all funds raised will be used to purchase vehicles and equipment for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Traditionally, the event will include a gala evening with a charity auction, the proceeds of which will also go to help the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

For students and interns

A separate category of participation is open to medical university students and interns.

This is a unique opportunity to see the work of leading surgeons, communicate with mentors, and take the first steps in professional development.

Date: December 20, 2025

Location: Camelot Hotel Complex, Uzhhorod

Start time: 9:00 a.m.

Online registration and program details: https://livesurgery-transcarpathian.com

Media accreditation: +38 050 172 35 00

Contact person: Kira Skrypnyk, Head of PR at Lita Plus Clinic  [email protected].

Intefax-Ukraine is the information partner of the conference.
There are more than 166,000 vacant buildings in Ireland, and not all of them are suitable to be transformed into housing.

Many derelict structures are just waiting for some TLC to be lavished on them to be repurposed into something that benefits the local community.

A new six-part series called Buildings Beo which starts on TG4 at 8.30pm on Wednesday gives us a glimpse of some of these inspiring projects.

The series, presented by Carrie Crowley is not only about the renovation of heritage buildings, but about the people and the communities who bring them back to life.

Of the six projects highlighted, two are in Cork.

The first, which can be seen on December 10, looks at the transformation of The Old Mill building in Kinsale. into a vibrant community space and library.

This historic building presents significant challenges for the team, as Carrie discovers when she explores the design process and learns about its protected status and its location in an architectural protection zone.

Shell see first-hand the meticulous efforts to preserve historical significance and learn as the new library takes shape, how it promises to be more than just a repository of books, but also a much-needed community space, bridging past and present in the town.

The final episode of Buildings Beo, airing on Christmas Eve, heads to Macroom to see the work done to transform The Briery Gap Theatre and Cultural Centre in Main Street.

Carrie visits the bustling market town where the iconic Briery Gap, a beloved theatre and cultural hub left derelict since a devastating fire, takes centre stage.

From cherished Christmas pantomimes to the lasting legacy of the local drama group, Carrie uncovers the void left by the building and the eagerness to see it restored to its former glory.

As the team overcomes the challenges of breathing new life into an old theatre, Carrie watches as the curtain finally comes up on a revitalised Briery Gap, a vibrant cultural centrepiece right in the heart of the town.

The first episode of the series on Wednesday sees the work done at Hope Castle Gate Lodge in Castleblayney, Monaghan.

It takes its name from Blayney Castle, once the focal point of the area. Renamed Hope Castle in the 1850s, the castles gate lodge fell into disrepair with the passage of time.

Carrie sees locals come together to reimagine the space. The forgotten lodge, situated off the historic market square.and by the picturesque public park surrounding Loch Muckno, is reimagined as a state-of-the-art library
A Cork TD has criticised a lack of transparency around future plans for Cork City Library, amid fears that plans for a new building have been scrapped.

Social Democrats TD Padraig Rice raised the issue of the library in the Dail on Thursday. We have a fantastic library service in Cork city but the building is not fit for purpose, he said.

The roof leaks and parts of the library have been closed off to the public.

Even more disappointing is that four years ago, the Taoiseach announced that 50m would be spent transforming Grand Parade with a new public library, a new central plaza, and boardwalk. Four years later, however, our library is nowhere to be seen. It is not acceptable. This is just a pattern of under-delivery for Cork city. Again and again, projects are announced that are not delivered on.

He said a total of 50m was promised and 7m had been spent on Bishop Lucey Parks redevelopment, but he claimed there is a huge lack of transparency about the remaining 43m.

Minister of State Colm Brophy acknowledged that the library is currently limited in its capacity. He said: It is proposed to develop a new library in a well-designed iconic building that embraces its riverside location as part of a vibrant mixed-use quarter. Multiple options have been considered for the new library by Cork City Council.

"There has been a significant level of engagement between Cork City Council and officials from the Department of Housing. I understand a revised preliminary business case that will set out the councils preferred options is expected to be submitted to the department in the coming weeks.

Mr Rice said was concerned at the response because what we see is a passing of the buck. He said: When the press releases go out, they often have the names of the Taoiseach and the minister on them. When it comes to responsibility, however, it is a case of it not being them but Cork City Council that is responsible.

Are we going to get the construction of a new building and not have this shoved into an existing building that does not meet the needs of a library and is not the promised new-build library?
A former bank in the Corks city centre has been given new life as a new lunch spot to open on Winthrop St.

Sprout & Co are a healthy eating brand run by brothers Jack and Theo Kirwan from Kildare, serving signature salads, bowls and wraps.

The pair opened their first location in Dublins Dawson St and has since expanded to seven locations in the capital and one in Kildare Village.

This new Cork store in the former Ulster Bank which has remained closed for a number of years, marks the companys first location outside Dublin and Kildare.

Read More Ulster Bank to sell three Cork branches

Jack & Theo Kirwan founders of Sprout at Sprout on Dawson Street, Dublin.

The brands origins can be traced back to Cork when a freshly-picked, organic tomato at Ballymaloe Cookery School sparked the idea in co-owner Jack for a locally-sourced, seasonal, healthy food business.

In 2018, the brothers purchased a 30-acre farm in Kildare after realising their dream of providing home grown, Irish organic produce for their restaurants.

The healthy eatery was first granted permission for the two story cafe in January of this year.

In its application, Sprout & Co said it is a perfect fit for the pedestrianised Winthrop Street, a "busy, vibrant street in the heart of the Cork City Centre and comprises of a variety of business including retail, bars, restaurants, cafes hairdressers and other."

Speaking ahead of the opening of their first Cork city store, the owners took to social media to say: 10 years ago we opened the first Sprout on Dawson St so it feels fitting that on the same week we are starting from scratch in a new city.

Weve spent the last year converting an old bank into a restaurant and are officially opening next Monday 17.

Weve some soft launch days later this week to test out the restaurant so please stay tuned for whats to come.

Hello, Winthrop St. Excited for the next 10 years with you.

The new cafe has brought 15 new jobs to the city centre

Sprout & Co, Winthrop will officially open on Monday, November 17 from 11am to 9pm.
Cork City Councils senior management have not met with Uisce Eireann since March and do not have any meetings planned.

Labours Peter Horgan asked at Mondays council meeting when senior officials had last met Uisce Eireanns chief executive and management, what issues were discussed, and when their next meeting is scheduled.

The councils Noel Murtagh, acting director of local area development and operations, said: A meeting was held between Cork City Council and Uisce Eireann senior management on March 19, which was attended by Cork City Councils chief executive and Uisce Eireanns CEO.

The purpose of the meeting was for [the council] to raise and outline their concerns to Uisce Eireann across a number of areas, including: Key strategic issues impacting growth in Cork City under planning and development management and housing; Uisce Eireanns operational issues; the end of the service level agreement; and reassignment of staff.

Currently, there are no further meetings scheduled between the senior management teams.

He added that a review of issues from the councils perspective and Uisce Eireanns progress was planned for the end of the year.
Cowardly was how a sentencing judge described an attack by four men on one victim in Cork city centre.

Judge Helen Boyle said it was only by good fortune that the young man who was assaulted was not seriously injured or even killed.

It was a cowardly assault, four against one, said Judge Boyle to 21-year-old Sandro Tavares of Clos Na Baoi, Kilnagleary, Carrigaline, who admitted assault causing harm to another man at Winthrop St, Cork, on November 14, 2021.

You struck him twice. Then he was knocked to the ground by another person. While he was on the ground, you kicked him in the head.

You are very lucky you did not kill that man or cause him a serious brain injury. That young man is lucky he did not suffer serious harm, and you are also lucky.

He is entitled to go home safely from his night out, said Judge Boyle.

Barrister Carmel Goggin said the defendant had no previous convictions, and expressed his remorse for his actions. He also brought 2,000 compensation to Cork Circuit Criminal Court for the victim.

Judge Boyle said: It is a tangible token of his remorse.

The judge imposed a two-year sentence, which was suspended.

The incident occurred at 3.45am when the victim was involved in a verbal exchange with a group of men.

The defendant and three other people then followed the victim, who tried to run away from them. He was knocked to the ground at Winthrop St and further assaulted when he was on the ground.

His injuries included bruising to the left eye and swelling to the left side of his face.
Councillors debated the merits of twinning with cities in India, Scotland, and Poland at the most recent council meeting, with councillors asked to consider which cities would make the best partners.

Fine Gaels councillor Shane OCallaghan proposed twinning Cork with the city of Bangalore, the capital of the southern Indian State of Karnataka to build upon links in technology, culture, research, and education.

Green Party councillor Dan Boyle suggested the council investigate the possibility of establishing a friendly city relationship with Aberdeen in Scotland, while fellow Green councillor suggested city to city relationships be developed with Gdynia, Poland, a port city of similar size to Cork and the name of which has the same meaning as Corcaigh.

At the most recent international relations and tourism strategic policy committee (SPC) meeting, a spokesperson for the councils corporate, community and cultural affairs directorate stated: Cork City is currently twinned with Cologne, Coventry, Rennes, San Francisco, Shanghai, and Swansea.

Formally lower levels of city partnership exist, and there are opportunities to consider city-to-city agreements, eg partner or friendship city agreements. Cork currently has such a partner agreement with Shenzhen, Wuxi, and Hangzhou.

The current approach of council is to develop timebound programmes of mutual benefit with prospective city partners before entering into formal twinning arrangements, and subject to the views of the SPC, it is considered that more information on what co-operation is known to exist, what thematic areas of co-operation are proposed and how a formal partnership would serve to strengthen this co-operation.

The directorate would be happy to work with members on this in view of bringing a detailed business case on a prospective partnership to the SPC for consideration, they said, asking SPC members to consider which cities should be considered for developing a business case.

The motions were debated at the most recent council meeting, with some councillors expressing a concern about twinning for the sake of it, and asking what value these partnerships actually bring.

Independent councillor and former Lord Mayor Kieran McCarthy told The Echo that twinning was very important to the essence of the Citys international image.

He explained: An international relations strategy is very important for any city, especially a city with many connections to the outside world such as Cork... twinned city relationships with our six cities are certainly delivering across a whole series of joint ventures from education, heritage, and history to health to commerce to community life. It is important that we keep investing in our twinned cities strategy and its programme of works.
Cork City Councils development plan is being reviewed to look at one-off housing in rural areas on the outskirts of the new city, as councillors said people are finding it impossible to build homes near their family farms.

Latest CSO data shows that from the start of 2018 to the end of 2024, there were 3,468 houses as part of a housing scheme granted planning permission in Cork city, 8,341 apartments, and only 290 one-off houses, representing just 2% of all permissions granted.

Independent councillor Albert Deasy proposed a motion on the topic at the most recent Cork City Council meeting, prompted by the 2019 boundary extension, which incorporated additional rural areas and family farms, including parts of Ballincollig, Blarney, Glanmire, and Tower into the city councils remit.

He said: The current city development plan imposes stringent criteria, such as a minimum 30-hectare landholding for farm viability and a prohibition on urban-generated housing, which may unduly restrict genuine rural housing needs on family farms. In contrast, Cork County Councils development plan adopts a more flexible approach, supporting one-off housing for family farm successors and those with demonstrable economic or social need, without a fixed farm size threshold, to sustain rural communities.

Fine Gaels Damian Boylan also had a motion calling for a review of the development plan with regard to one-off housing, saying: The current approach to one-off housing has made it unreasonably difficult for families and individuals with land and means to provide their own homes, effectively shutting down an important housing option during a crisis.

He called for the council to acknowledge that in times of sufficient housing supply, restrictions on one-off housing may have merit, but that given the current shortage, policies designed for another era are no longer fit for the circumstances we face today.

He said: Councillors are on the front lines of this crisis, dealing daily with individuals and families in need of housing their role and experience should be respected and given appropriate weight in the shaping of housing policy.

He called for a review of the development plan with a view to facilitating a controlled release of one-off housing permissions, subject to clear conditions, such as that homes must respect the character of local areas and connect to existing infrastructure and services where feasible. He said priority consideration should be given to applicants with a genuine local connection or family need.

Mr Deasy and Mr Boylan were told that the councils planning and integrated development directorate is carrying out a review of the rural one-off housing policy as it is outlined in the Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028.

This review will be undertaken in the context of new and updated available data, including Census 2022 data, and the executive will revert to council with proposals in the coming months with the expectation that this review will culminate in an appropriate variation of the city development plan in respect of this matter, said director of planning and integrated development Niall O Donnabhain.
A Cork TD has expressed concern at an increase in prison deaths in Cork, calling for an upper limit for the amount of people in custody there to be imposed.

Last week, The Echo revealed that there were five deaths linked to Cork prison last year, more than double the previous year, with the inspector of prisons saying overcrowding has played a role in the increase.

The annual report of the Office of the Inspector of Prisons (OIP) also highlighted low morale among prison staff and insufficient access to a GP in Cork Prison.

Fianna Fail TD Padraig OSullivan raised the issues in the Dail this week, saying to Taoiseach Micheal Martin: The number of deaths in Cork Prison has doubled since last year. The Inspector of Prisons has said overcrowding has played a significant part in this.

His annual report published a few weeks ago highlighted the low morale among officers and the insufficient access to a GP in Cork Prison among other issues.

As the Taoiseach is aware, Cork Prison is frequently overcrowded. Last August, there were a total of 403 prisoners onsite. He knows as well as I do that this facility was only built for 296 prisoners.

The latest count shows there are still 372 prisoners onsite. One of the recommendations from the report was to ask the Minister to introduce an upper limit on the number of prisoners that could be held on site. He asked: Can we look into the imposition of an upper limit? We have been talking for quite a while about the need to build an extension to Cork Prison.

"Will the Taoiseach provide an update on that project?

Mr Martin said: Deputy OSullivan referred to Cork Prison. It is overcrowded. The inspector said that.

The Minister for justice has received sanction from the Cabinet to build an extension. It has had a mixed reception, but there is no doubt that the current numbers at the prison are not tenable. It is an issue of safety.

I will talk to the Minister about the timelines, but there is certainly a huge issue not just with Cork Prison but across the prison system. That reflects the increase in numbers coming through our courts charged with serious offences.

The Minister is looking at all avenues of how to deal with the overcrowding issue. He has already received sanction in terms of capital investment for extensions, particularly that at Cork Prison.
That old saying about a week being a long time in politics is a load of baloney, when you think about it.

It was coined in the 1960s and belongs to a different era, when the pace of life, the media, and politics all pootled along at a steady pace.

Yes, events could rapidly derail politicians and governments in those days, as they can today, which was the point of the quote - but more often than not, a week wont make a drastic difference to a politicians life one way or the other.

A helluva lot can happen in a year in politics though.

Take Micheal Martins last 12 months.

In mid-November, 2024, the Cork man was at the peak of his powers, the epitome of a successful career politician.

Forty years ago, he secured election to then Cork Corporation for Fianna Fail, and his steely determination and wily patience had taken him right to the top. Three years later, he was a TD for his home city, then came ministries, the leadership of his party, and, ultimately, and gloriously, his crowning as Taoiseach.

A year ago, critics of Micheal Martin within and outside Fianna Fail were few and far between. Nobody was talking about his stranglehold on his party, and even his political opponents had a wary respect for him.

His strengths were certainly winning Fianna Fail politicians and voters over again this time last year, in the run up to the general election on November 29.

His coalition partner Simon Harris had been appointed the youngest ever Taoiseach six months earlier, and Fine Gael had been rampant in the polls.

Remember the Harris hop?

When the election was called, it appeared Fianna Fail were going to surrender much of their traditional centre ground vote - but Micheal used all the tools in his box and proceeded to play a blinder.

Through the course of that campaign, his sure and steady personality and patient demeanour gradually hauled back Fine Gael, until the two were neck and neck in the polls. By the week of the vote, Fianna Fail were clear leaders and the Harris hop was halted. Talk about the tortoise and the hare!

It was remarkable that a man who had been a key player in the previous government managed to convince enough of the electorate that he was both the cause of and the solution to the housing shortage and the cost-of-living crisis.

At the polls, Fianna Fail remained the largest party after the vote, increasing its number of seats to 48, ten more than Fine Gael.

The main reason for that success was undoubtedly the man who now assumed the mantle of Taoiseach once again - Micheal Martin.

A year later, and you do wonder how he would answer this question: Where did it all go wrong?

Because go wrong it undoubtedly has.

Where to start?

Well, there was the hullabaloo over the independents, including Michael Lowry, bolstering the coalition, and then a row over Dail speaking rights which was unedifying and dragged on for ages.

Critics blamed both on Micheal Martins intransigence, and there was a sense among the public that the new government were playing silly beggars instead of getting on with the issues they had been elected to hastily resolve.

Then it emerged that the figure of 40,000 promised homes in 2024 trumpeted in the run up the election by Micheal and others turned out to be just 30,330.

That was galling for voters too.

However, it was the entire farce over the presidential nomination in recent months that really did great, and possibly fatal damage to the Cork TDs political career.

The dawdling, the support for Jim Gavin, the apparent blithe indifference to Fianna Fail stalwarts who might fancy a tilt at the Aras themselves - ambition, be damned! - the surprising bump of support within the party when Billy Kelleher challenged the status quo...

All the above severely dented Micheals reputation and resulted in a left-wing backed candidate taking the prize - he (and Simon Harris) had handed an unlikely win to their biggest rivals in the Dail.

All of it was uncharacteristically sloppy for the Cork man - and amidst it all came a budget which left ordinary working people and families feeling neglected and unloved. As Taoiseach, Micheal Martin bore the brunt of the blame for that too.

You dont get to be leader of Fianna Fail for 14 years without knowing how to play the long game, and the Taoiseach knows all too well that the first year or two of a government is the best time to carry out unpopular actions, before the business of getting back into power rears its head.

Its a cynical approach, yes, but it can be brutally effective.

But it appears, thanks to the presidential debacle in particular, that the Turners Cross man has taken this too far, and written his own political death warrant.

The talk now is not if Micheal Martin will be toppled as Fianna Fail leader, but when.

The only reason his position has not already been threatened is timing. Potential successors, such as justice minister Jim OCallaghan, must know that there is little point in starting a heave a year into a new government, especially at a time of some economic uncertainty.

Better to sit it out, surely, maybe even until Micheals term as Taoiseach ends in 2027?

Then again, if the Taoiseach commits any more missteps, or if the polls for the party and its leader continue to flounder, that day could arrive sooner.

When that day arrives, the Cork man can leave with his head held high. He has served almost 15 years as leader of the party he has always revered, a remarkable achievement in the modern social media driven soundbite age.

He will be living proof that not all political careers end in failure

What next for Micheal?

He turned 65 in August, and there is speculation that his son may enter politics, so perhaps his future lies in Brussels, while you wouldnt rule him out of a tilt for the presidency in 2032, when he may come up against his fellow Cork politician Billy Kelleher on the hustings.

His entry to the race, of course, would depend on the whims of the Fianna Fail, leader. How ironic would that be?
High Court Reporter

A High Court judge has upheld a disciplinary tribunal finding against suspended Roscommon solicitor Declan OCallaghan regarding professional misconduct over his handling of a 2006 land transfer in Co Mayo.

However, while the court was "deeply unimpressed" at Mr O'Callaghan's conduct, he said he was not minded to conclude that the solicitor was "guilty of dishonesty".

Mr OCallaghan had appealed the findings of the Solicitors' Disciplinary Tribunal that arose from his involvement in the transfer of lands over which the vendor claimed to be owed 250,000.

The tribunal upheld the complaints against Mr O'Callaghan made in 2010 by Mayo company Nirvanna Property Holdings Ltd, run by businessman Tom Fleming, and recommended that Mr O'Callaghan be struck off the roll of solicitors.

That recommendation was put on hold pending the outcome of the appeal, though Mr O'Callaghan has been suspended since 2018 over a separate matter.

Mr O'Callaghan took his appeal against original complainant Nirvanna Property Holdings Ltd with the Law Society named as a notice party in proceedings.

The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal made the recommendation in July after upholding a complaint about Mr O'Callaghan's involvement in a land deal in which the vendor, Nirvanna, never received 250,000.

Mr O'Callaghan appealed the findings of the tribunal, among which were that he acted for both the vendor and the purchaser in a conflict of interest; that he provided inadequate professional services and that he continued to act for the purchaser, the late businessman Fred Preston.

He had claimed he was not given a fair hearing by the tribunal and submitted he had a reasonable apprehension of bias and predetermination against him in the handling of the complaint.

At the High Court on Friday, Mr Justice Micheal O'Higgins said he would uphold one ground against Mr O'Callaghan relating to the conflict of interest complaint but dismissed the other three complaints.

In upholding the tribunal's finding of conflict of interest, Mr Justice O'Higgins said that any solicitor acting for both parties "does so at his peril".

"It is not remotely surprising that the appellant, by choosing to act for both sides in the one transaction on the facts of this case, gave rise not just to the risk but the actuality that the solicitors' profession would be brought into disrepute.

"The decision to act for both sides in the circumstances, coupled with the failure to ensure the respondent was separately advised, represented a serious falling short of the standards expected of solicitors," said Mr Justice O'Higgins.

Mr OCallaghan had accepted his firm acted for both sides in the transfer but strenuously denied any impropriety.

Mr O'Callaghan submitted the land transfer was to adhere to security requirements demanded by Bank of Ireland for a loan for Western Concrete, which was a joint venture between Mr Fleming and Mr Preston.

Mr O'Callaghan said there had been no question of 250,000 being paid to Nirvanna for the transfer and that the figure referred to the valuation of the lands.

The judge allowed Mr OCallaghans appeal against three misconduct charges, including the claim that Nirvanna was owed 250,000. Mr Justice O'Higgins said it had not been proven beyond a reasonable doubt that both parties envisaged that Nirvanna would receive 250,000 for the sale.

He also allowed the appeal on the grounds that Mr O'Callaghan continued to act for the purchaser and a complaint over the adequacy of service provided.

Mr Justice O'Higgins said it had not been proven beyond a reasonable doubt that both parties envisaged that Nirvanna would receive 250,000 for the sale.

However, Mr Justice O'Higgins said he was "deeply unimpressed" that Mr O'Callaghan did not advise Nirvanna and Mr Fleming to get independent legal advice.

Mr O'Callaghan has been suspended since 2018 on foot of a separate Law Society probe into matters at his practice.

That matter arose from an accountants report over a possible client account deficit and the alleged unauthorised taking of fees.

Mr Justice O'Higgins said he was not minded to conclude that Mr O'Callaghan was "guilty of dishonesty" and told counsel for the Law Society that he would hear submissions from them in the New Year on costs and what the appropriate sanction should be.
Chinese premier meets Thai king

Xinhua) 09:41, November 15, 2025

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with visiting King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua of the Kingdom of Thailand at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)

BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with visiting King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua of the Kingdom of Thailand here on Friday.

China and Thailand are as close as family, Li said, adding China is willing to maintain high-level exchanges with Thailand, consolidate good-neighborly friendship, firmly support each other, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, to achieve more results in building a China-Thailand community with a shared future and better benefit the two peoples.

Highlighting the complementary nature of the two economies, the Chinese premier said China stands ready to continue to expand the scale of bilateral trade and two-way investment with Thailand, and expand cooperation in emerging fields such as green economy, artificial intelligence and aerospace.

Given their geographical proximity and cultural affinity, it would be opportune for China and Thailand to deepen exchanges and cooperation in such fields as culture and tourism to lay a solid foundation for friendship between the two peoples, Li said.

Noting that Thailand and China have a profound traditional friendship, the Thai king said bilateral cooperation in various fields has produced fruitful results and enjoys broad prospects.

Thailand highly appreciates the tremendous achievements China has made in economic and social development in recent years, and is willing to strengthen friendly exchanges with China, deepen pragmatic cooperation, and move forward hand in hand on the path of common development, he added.

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Liang Jun)
By Grainne Ni Aodha

Tanaiste Simon Harris has said the accusation that he is a populist is an attempt from the left to caricature him and shut me down.

He said that, as citizens were talking about migration, it should also be raised by politicians, as he accused the Dail of being the only forum in Ireland where it was not discussed.

Mr Harris has come in for criticism for stating that migration numbers in Ireland are too high, both asylum applications and general migration, and that it would be irresponsible not to discuss the countrys immigration system.

He has been accused by the opposition of dogwhistling and of mirroring the politics of Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, which Mr Harris has denied.

On Saturday, Labour TD Conor Sheehan said Mr Harris was quite populist, citing his recent comments on migration.

That, to me, was just populism. Like it was just Simon Harris saying something a) to distract and b) to divide, he said in an interview with The Journal.

Responding, Mr Harris said that he was shocked at how reluctant Irish parliamentarians were to discuss migration.

Labours Conor Sheehan (Brian Lawless/PA)

He stressed once again that migration was a good thing and that Ireland benefits from migrants contributing to society in Ireland and making it their home.

He said it would be bizarre if the country did not have a national migration strategy and said that the comments were being made now as the number of asylum seekers arriving in Ireland has risen dramatically in recent years.

The effort to shut down this debate is kind of stark, and its really worrying, and its one of the reasons why so many Irish people feel disconnected from politics, he said speaking in Co Kildare on Saturday.

I intend to play my part as a political leader, and Fine Gael intends to play its part as a political party in having a constructive engagement.

The only populist stuff (has come from) the left in an attempt to caricature me and shut me down, and they wont succeed.

He added: Im really quite shocked and taken aback by how reluctant politicians in our national parliament are to discuss migration.

It must be the only forum in Ireland where people dont discuss migration.

In every community in Ireland, these conversations are taking place, and its actually time to show a little bit of political leadership here and actually be willing to discuss issues.

Its easy to discuss issues that everybody agrees on. Its easy to discuss straightforward issues.

Its much more about political courage to be willing to actually talk about an issue that is complex.

Asked about a proposal whereby asylum is only granted on a temporary basis, so that if conditions change in a country of origin, that people would be returned, Mr Harris said it was an interesting idea that merits consideration.

This country is a compassionate country, I want to be really clear on this, I dont want us to lose that in the debate, he said.

The far right try to hijack our national identity; they dont speak for us. They dont have a mandate to speak for us.

Were a good, decent people in this country, and we want to do right by people in difficult circumstances.

He said that the majority of people who seek international protection in Ireland are refused after appeal and said that there needed to be an honest conversation about this in a respectful manner.

Weve got to call out the disgusting, despicable criminal acts of people who deserve the full rigours of justice to be served and some of the horrors weve seen

Thats separate and distinct to having a policy debate.
(Photo: Gloria Charles/WCC)The Joint Consultative Group between the World Council of Churches and the Pentecostal World Fellowship which met in Bossey, Switzerland in October 2024.

The presidents of the Conference of European Churches and the Council of European Bishops' Conferences have presented a revised Charta cumenica to Pope Leo XIV, a new document cementing church and continental unity.

They did so during a private audience at the Vatican on Nov. 6, according to the CEC, a Brussels-based body representing mainly Protestant and Orthodox traditions, which worked with the CCEE, a body that brings together 39 Catholic episcopal conferences.

This audience took place a day after the signing of the revised Charta cumenica in Rome, marking a significant milestone for churches across Europe.

First adopted in 2001, the Charta sets out commitments by Europe's churches to closer fellowship, common witness, dialogue, and shared responsibility for the continent's future.

During the meeting at the Apostolic Palace, Pope Leo said that "the challenges Christians face on the ecumenical journey are constantly evolving," and for this reason, it has been necessary to reexamine the situation in Europe, according to CNA, the Catholic News Agency.

The pontiff said that the Charta cumenica is a sign of commitment by the churches.

He said it "is a testimony to the willingness of the Churches in Europe to look at our history through the eyes of Christ," and encouraged continued reliance on the Holy Spirit to guide this journey forward.

The revised version of the charter seeks to address contemporary challenges and reflect the changing realities of European society and Christianity.

The updated version was signed by Archbishop Gintaras Grusas of Vilnius, Lithuania, the president of the CCEE, and by Greek Orthodox Archbishop Nikitas Loulias of Thyateira and Great Britain.

By presenting the revised Charta cumenicato Pope Leo, CCEE and CEC reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepen fellowship, strengthen Christian witness, and work together for peace, justice, and reconciliation in Europe, according to the CEC website.

Loulias, president of the CEC, explained to ACI Prensa, CNA's Spanish-language news partner, after the audience with the Holy Father that "the world has changed" and that the realities of 25 years ago are not the same as those of today.

"Now there is the problem of migration, and how to treat migrants and the laws related to it. Also, how to confront nationalism, populism, ideas based on prejudice and hate, and what we, as Christians, preach: peace," he noted, according to CNA.
The US Department of Justice has announced that five people have pleaded guilty to helping North Koreans defraud US companies by pretending to be US-based remote workers. North Korea has previously used fake identities and the direct manipulation of US cybersecurity workers to circumvent international sanctions and funnel money into the country.

In this case, the people knew they were helping North Koreans, the DOJ says, and "provided their own, false, or stolen identities" to help the remote workers get jobs. They also "hosted U.S. victim company-provided laptops at residences across the United States" to hide the workers' location. In the case of at least two "facilitators," they also took company drug tests on the workers' behalf.

Audricus Phagnasay, Jason Salazar and Alexander Paul Travis each pleaded guilty to one wire fraud conspiracy for their role in the scam. Travis was paid "at least $51,397" for participating, while Phagnasay and Salazar earned "at least $3,450 and $4,500, respectively." Another facilitator, Erick Ntekereze Prince, used his company to contract certified IT workers to other US companies, fully knowing the workers were using stolen identities. He earned "more than $89,000" for his participation in the scam and pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud conspiracy.

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The final facilitator, Oleksandr Didenko, pleaded guilty for one count of wire fraud conspiracy and one count of aggravated identity theft for participating in an extensive identity theft operation. Didenko helped foreign IT workers fraudulently gain employment at 40 US companies, the DOJ says, and he's forfeiting $1.4 million as part of his plea.

"These prosecutions make one point clear: the United States will not permit the DPRK to bankroll its weapons programs by preying on American companies and workers," U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quinones said in the DOJ announcement. We will keep working with our partners across the Justice Department to uncover these schemes, recover stolen funds, and pursue every individual who enables North Koreas operations.
Google may have to fork over 572 million euros, or nearly $665 million, to two German companies for "market abuse," according to a recent ruling from a Berlin court. First reported by Reuters, the tech giant was ordered to pay approximately 465 million euros, or approximately $540 million, to Idealo and another 107 million euros, or roughly $124 million, to Producto, both of which are price comparison platforms based in Germany. According to the ruling, Google abused its dominant market position by favoring Google Shopping in its own search results.

Idealo pursued legal action against Google, claiming that the Alphabet subsidiary was "self-preferencing" its own platforms, which led to unfair market advantages that hindered competitors. The company first demanded at least 3.3 billion euros, or more than $3.8 billion, in damages in February 2025. To counter, Google said it made changes in 2017 that allowed competing shopping platforms the same opportunity as Google Shopping to display ads through Google Search.

Idealo said in a press release that it will continue the legal pressure on Google, claiming that "the amount awarded reflects only a fraction of the actual damage." Albrecht von Sonntag, co-founder and member of Idealo's advisory board, added in a press release that "abuse of dominance must have consequences and must not be a profitable business model that pays off despite fines and damages."

It's not the first time Google has found itself in legal trouble in Europe. Beyond Google Shopping, Google was accused of favoring its own Google Flights and Google Hotels in search results, leading the European Union to threaten massive fines for violating its Digital Markets Act. A month prior, the European Commission fined Google nearly 3 billion euros, or more than $3.4 billion, for its anticompetitive practices in the advertising tech industry.
In a longstanding and complicated legal battle between Apple and Masimo, a recent ruling from a California jury may be the first step towards a certain conclusion. As reported by Reuters, a federal jury sided with Masimo, a medical tech company known for its patient monitoring devices, when it said that Apple infringed on the company's patent for technology that tracks blood-oxygen levels.

The case revolves around whether Apple violated Masimo's patent related to blood-oxygen sensors, which the jury claimed can be seen with the Apple Watch's Workout and Heart Rate apps. According to Reuters, Apple disagreed with the verdict, adding that "the single patent in this case expired in 2022, and is specific to historic patient monitoring technology from decades ago." The tech giant is reportedly planning to appeal the decision.

While there may be some closure with this California lawsuit, Apple and Masimo are entangled in a web of related but separate lawsuits. Masimo first accused Apple of infringing on its pulse oximeter patents, leading to Apple temporarily halting sales of its Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches. In August, Apple redesigned its blood-oxygen monitoring feature and rolled it out to the Series 9, Series 10 and Ultra 2. The redesign was approved by the US Customs and Border Protection, but Masimo filed a suit against the agency for overstepping its authority by allowing the sale of these updated Apple Watches without input from Masimo.
Monroe Cannon, the daughter of Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon, left many talking this week as she addressed misconceptions around her family structure and her relationship with her father's other children.

The post, first reported by Atlanta Black Star, came just days after Monroe shared a candid Instagram Story in which she explained that she has only one full sibling, her twin brother, Moroccan. The message prompted responses across social media, as many interpreted it as a subtle yet bold acknowledgment of her father's expanding family.

Monroe explained things straightforwardly via Instagram: "Clearing something up guys! I only have ONE brother who is @moroccan.cannon. I do have other half-siblings from my dad but they are all many, many years younger than me!"

Roe said she dont know her daddy other kids 



lmfao, Im screaming at this PSA  pic.twitter.com/qj5wpgfxqa  The Bronx?! The World. (@itsKARY_) November 14, 2025

Cannon and Carey wed in 2008, bringing the twins into the world in 2011 before announcing their separation in 2014 and their divorce being finalized in 2016. Since then, Cannon has welcomed 10 more children with six different women, including Bre Tiesi, LaNisha Cole, Brittany Bell, Abby De La Rosa, and Alyssa Scott.

One commenter responded on JasmineBrand's Instagram: "She said nothing wrong. She doesn't have to subscribe to her father's loose cannon."

Read more: Nick Cannon Admits Money and Access Made Him Careless in Having 12 Children

Another social media user attributed Monroe's tone to her mother's established pop-culture persona. A follower added, "That's the Carey in them genes coming out because she said 'I don't know them.'"

As discussions about responsibility and blended families unfolded, the supporters and critics of Cannon weighed in. "This is Nick's fault not hers.," a follower from A Shade Room said. "He decided to go have all of those kids SEPARATELY. It's up to him to bridge this gap."

The twins have made appearances with Cannon at public events, but are rarely seen with their younger half-siblings. It's been reported that this is due to boundaries in place in the co-parenting setup between Carey and Cannon.

During a 2023 appearance on "The Jason Lee Show," Cannon offered insight into Carey's perspective. He said, "She high frequency, man. She always asks me, 'You aight? You good? How you doing? You handling it all?'"

In an interview published in the 2025 issue of Harper's Bazaar, Carey reiterated her strategy for co-parenting post-divorce: "How do I say this? They spend time with him, and they have a good time," she said.

Mariah Carey talks to CBS Mornings' Gayle King about co-parenting with Nick Cannon:



Hmm. I kind of feel like it's best if I don't talk about him, because he can just be in his own world. No offence to him. pic.twitter.com/XNB11NDpp3  Fan | Mariah Carey Charts (@chartmariah) September 24, 2025

In past interviews, Carey has kept her distance from speaking publicly about Cannon. She told Gayle King, "I feel like it's best if I don't talk about him... Because he can just be in his own world  no offense to him."
Hollywood insiders say they weren't shocked when Justin Baldoni described a private confrontation with Ryan Reynolds as "traumatic."

What surprised many, according to Rob Shuter, was how closely the encounter resembled long-standing whispers about the actor's contrasting public and private images.

Newly filed court documents and text messages submitted as evidence in the legal battle involving Blake Lively and the production of "It Ends With Us," outline Baldoni's account of a January 2024 meeting at the couple's New York apartment. The details have reignited talk in industry circles about Reynolds' alleged dual personas.

A Tense Meeting Comes to Light

In texts first published by PEOPLE, Baldoni wrote to actor Rainn Wilson that the conversation with Reynolds left him "emotionally paralyzed."

The meeting, he said, centered on concerns Lively had raised and quickly escalated into a deeply uncomfortable exchange.

Baldoni claims Reynolds "was talking to me like a five-year-old and scolding me," adding that he was confronted with a list of allegations read from a phone.

Terms such as "creepy" and "abuse" were used, he said, and he was handed a written apology to read aloud, something he says he couldn't bring himself to do.

"It's hard to feel so much of what they believe about me is false because they are so convinced that it's real," he wrote in the Jan. 5, 2024, message.

Court filings state that the conversation took place the night before filming was set to resume following the end of the strikes.

Baldoni described wanting to "run and blow this whole movie up" yet feeling compelled to acknowledge the couple's concerns. He also referred to taking "the wrath of an angry husband," saying even that felt impossible in the moment.

Justin Baldoni PRIVATELY discussing the trauma he experienced at the hands of Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively. He never thought the public would read these texts, but here we are. pic.twitter.com/HjZ89f8aHC  TheBushBirds (@thebushbirds) November 13, 2025

Inside Hollywood's Quiet Rumors

While the texts shocked fans, insiders tell #ShuterScoop the scenario sounded familiar. For years, some industry figures have quietly drawn a distinction between Reynolds' public persona and the one they say emerges behind closed doors.

"People think Ryan is the funny, charming guy from the commercials," a longtime studio source told the outlet.

"But behind closed doors, he's a lot more intense... there's Hollywood Ryan, and then there's the Ryan only insiders meet."

Another person in the industry characterized Reynolds as "fiercely protective" of Lively, a quality they say sometimes shifts the dynamic around him.

A talent manager added that he "controls his image better than almost any A-lister," making the Baldoni allegations unsurprising to those who've worked closely with him.

What Triggered the Confrontation

According to the filings, the dispute stemmed from a moment when Baldoni asked a trainer about Lively's weight ahead of filming a scene in which he would lift her, a question he says was tied to his existing back problems. The trainer reportedly passed the question to Lively, who then told Reynolds, prompting the meeting.

Baldoni's legal complaint, filed in early 2025, described Reynolds' reaction as a "tirade" and claimed the director had "never been spoken to like that in his life." His lawyers alleged that the exchange may have been timed to coincide with other celebrity friends entering and exiting the penthouse.

Reynolds' attorney Bryan Freedman later told Page Six that the actor was "angry," "stern," and "impassioned," but denied that Reynolds "aggressively berated" Baldoni.
After listening to thousands of testimonies throughout her career, the Nobel laureate reflects from Berlin on Ukraine and Belarus, soldiers and victims, exile, and the human condition

Svetlana Alexievich, the Belarusian author who writes in Russian and won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2015, lives in the same Berlin apartment, with its high ceilings and spacious rooms, where EL PAIS visited her four years ago. The author of Voices from Chernobyl, Zinky Boys: Soviet Voices from the Afghanistan War, and Secondhand Time: The Last of the Soviets continues to write by hand. On a long table lie fragments of the manuscript for her new book, which is no longer the one she was outlining in 2021, as events interfered with the work of the exiled author: in February 2022, Vladimir Putin, afflicted by imperial nostalgia, launched a war in Ukraine, and less than two years later, Donald Trump shattered the illusion of global solidarity.

A member of the Coordinating Council of the Opposition to dictator Alexandr Lukashenko during the 2020 protests in Belarus, the writer observes a widespread backsliding of democracy, which goes far beyond the Soviet legacy.

Alexievich gathers testimonies from the millions of Belarusians, Russians, and Ukrainians who have taken refuge in Europe, as well as from institutions that document repression and war in the Slavic territories that once belonged to the Soviet Union. She also explores other avenues in search of revealing insights. Alexievich is particularly interested in the possibility of coexistence between victims and perpetrators, and among her current reading is a book on dictatorships in Spain, Greece, and Italy, The End of the Regime: How Three European Dictatorships Ended, by Alexander Baunov, published in Russian in 2023.

Question. Lets talk about the book youre writing

Answer. Its not finished yet. I had almost completed it when the war came and... [with a slight wave of her hand and a hint of a whistle, Alexievich indicates that the project evaporated]. It became clear that another approach was necessary, and its difficult, because the war literally left us speechless, because words lost their meaning, because we didnt have the necessary terms, and only now are we beginning to recover. In The Last of the Soviets, I wrote about how that empire was collapsing, but now a general process is taking place. Deep Russia and Deep America have risen up, and democracy is receding all over the world.

Q. In the fall of 2021, you wrote about the Belarusian opposition being harshly repressed by Lukashenko.

A. Now my book is broader. In the 1990s, when I was working on Secondhand Time, the subtitle [in Russian] was The End of the Red Man [translated into Spanish as The End of Homo Sovieticus]. I buried him too soon, because Homo Sovieticus hasnt died; hes in the Kremlin, and fighting and shooting in Ukraine. Some things from the first version are still valid, but theres a lot to rethink and redo

Q. Could it be said that, if The End of Homo Sovieticus was a chamber composition with some allegro ma non troppo fragments, we are now faced with a composition for symphony orchestra with a more tragic rhythm?

A. I never limited myself to the Belarusian experience, but now this is broader Ive read and seen much of what has been written and filmed about what Lukashenko is doing and about the prisons. These authors are hostages to suffering, and those books have fallen out of favor, even though the prisons remain full. People need new answers. In the first two years [of the war], Ukrainians hoped that America would help them win, and we hoped that Lukashenko would fall so we could return to our country and do what we couldnt do in the 20th century. But it didnt happen that way. Now, Ukrainians and Belarusians are desperate.

I feel a lot of hatred toward Lukashenko and his associates but I believe everything must be done according to the law and that they must be tried in the Hague tribunal

Q. Are your characters Belarusian, Russian, or Ukrainian?

A. Im referring to all those who were swept off the ship by a great wave and who now have to rethink that experience. They are all castaways, but perhaps the Ukrainians have been freed somewhat more than the Belarusians and Russians. Belarus is now an occupied country, where there are Russian troops, aircraft, and military camps, where there are Russian military hospitals and service workshops for their tanks  a country from which the Russians can reach Ukraine at any moment with fresh forces. Considering all this, we are complicit in the aggression, but in an occupied country, you cant demand that people take to the streets because they can be sentenced to 15 years in prison for carrying the Belarusian flag [the former national flag, banned by Lukashenko].

Q. Your works are choral, based on real testimonies. Have you spoken to many people for your new book?

A. Yes. This year Ive worked in Prague, Vilnius, and Warsaw, as well as Berlin. In Europe, there are millions of exiles: Belarusians, Ukrainians, and good Russians. Ive occasionally spoken with bad Russians, like one who, before joining the front in Ukraine, came from Siberia to say goodbye to his sister, who lives in Germany. He was a man of about 52, in good shape, and he explained that his family, reunited, had decided that the only way to finish paying off the mortgage and overcome their financial difficulties was to send him to war. And when I asked him if he had enlisted just for the money, he said he hated the khokhly [a vulgar way of referring to Ukrainians in Russian]. I hate them, and thats all, he told me without further explanation. He considered the Russian soldiers in Ukraine to be heroes, as were the Soviet soldiers in Afghanistan, and accused me of slandering the latter in Zinky Boys.

Q. Among the material for the book are also testimonies recorded by a Ukrainian journalist, whom the Ukrainian authorities allow to lend his cell phone to Russian prisoners so that they can talk to their families in Russia.

A. Yes, I have heard, for example, a conversation between a prisoner and his wife, who tells him that an acquaintance, also a fighter in Ukraine, has sent his daughter a computer and sneakers and reminds him that his own daughter is about to start the school year and needs a tablet.

I have other testimonies. A journalist who traveled to Buryatia [a Siberian territory over 3,700 miles from Ukraine] spoke with a mother there who had just buried her son [who was killed on the Ukrainian front]. The mother began to speak, but then became frightened and refused to continue, claiming that if the journalist wrote it down, she wouldnt receive the compensation for her sons death, which she planned to use to buy her daughter an apartment. So she stated only that her son had fallen a hero and that, if it hadnt been for him, the Ukrainians would have already reached Buryatia. Thats what television does!

Someone told me that a lot of money is circulating in Russia, war money with which Putin has bought the country and enslaved its inhabitants, especially those in the periphery, who live in abject poverty. And these poor people then boast about buying fur coats and rings for their wives.

Q. More informed Russians with a higher standard of living are also fighting.

A. Yes, and they live by the motto: Keep quiet, or you wont get the money. Theyre either complicit or theyve sold out. In Belarus, on the other hand, Lukashenko didnt buy off the population; he frightened them instead.

Svetlana Alexievich addresses anti-war protesters via video link at a rally organized by the international literature festival "For Your and Our Freedom! Voices on the War in Ukraine," in Berlin, March 6, 2022. JOHN MACDOUGALL (AFP / GETTY IMAGES)

Q. When will your book be finished and what is its structure?

A. I think by the end of next year. I dont want to reveal its structure, but it has three chapters: Time of Revolution, Time of Defeat, and Eternal Time. Many things have converged on us; on the one hand, artificial intelligence, with which we all interact to varying degrees, and on the other, the columns of tanks on the border with Ukraine. Several eras coexist in our time. People often tell me they talk to artificial intelligence because they have no one else to talk to. Damn it.

Q. Was communism a dying idea when you wrote The Last of the Soviets?

A. It was an idea that was dying, but it didnt die, and imperial ideas also collapsed. [The conceptual artist] Ilya Kabakov wrote that, when we were finally satisfied with having defeated communism, suddenly, looking around, we saw that everything was full of rats. We dont know how to fight rats, and literature cant tell us either. That grotesque monster fragmented into a pile of rats. From it emerged other monsters that had been compressed there, and it turned out that, for money, human beings can go and kill their own Ukrainian brothers. People who knew the Era of Stagnation under Leonid Brezhnev [the Soviet leader from 1964 to 1982] tell me that the present times are more terrifying than then, when people were also imprisoned, but less so than during the Gulag era, of which there are hardly any survivors.

Q. In Soviet times there were people with ideals. Your father was a soldier and didnt fight for money.

A. My father was a communist, a bright Belarusian boy who left his village to study at the military journalism institute in Minsk. As a student, he went off to war because his country was in danger. Afterward, he was offered a promotion within the party, but only if he divorced my mother. She was Ukrainian and had lived in German-occupied territories, which was a disadvantage for his career. My father loved my mother and refused to leave her, so he was sent to head a provincial school. He believed the communist ideal was good, but that Stalin had corrupted it. When I returned from Afghanistan and told him that his former students were acting like drunks and murderers there, he burst into tears. Then I understood  ah! [pauses]  that love was paramount. There was even a time when he and my mother, angry with me, wanted to disown me as if I were an enemy of the people, but they didnt, because we loved each other. Before he died, he asked us to put his party membership card in the coffin. He believed until the very end.

Alexievich receives the Nobel Prize in Literature from King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden in Stockholm on December 10, 2015. JONAS EKSTROMER (AFP / GETTY IMAGES)

Q. Are Belarusian political prisoners included in your book?

A. I tell stories about them. For example, about the mother of a talented computer programmer sentenced to many years in prison for opposing Lukashenko. She had her sons portrait drawn on a board, put wheels on it, and took it with her everywhere.

Q. What is the West doing for political prisoners?

A. The West did a lot for them, but only through diplomacy. In contrast, Trump has started buying them off, and as far as I know, Lukashenko seized on this. The money upfront. And in return, he received parts for Belarusian planes that were no longer flying. There are nearly 2,000 prisoners in jail, and Lukashenko refuses to release them all at once. He prefers to do it in batches so he can get something for each one. Even worse, he imprisons new people  more people than he releases  such as those who help political prisoners or their families.

I am against the rejection of the Russian language in Ukraine, but I think its a temporary phenomenon born of desperation, not a permanent trend

Q. I imagine hell ask for a good price for Maria Kolesnikova [one of the leaders of the 2020 protests, sentenced to 11 years].

A. Someone who has been freed from prison has said that those who select prisoners for release have started feeding her better so she looks in better health. They suspect that perhaps they are preparing her for release.

Q. I was impressed by Nikolai Statkevich, the social democratic politician, who refused to leave Belarus after being released

A. Im not a supporter of our culture of heroism. Sign whatever it takes to get a pardon and go back to your family! Life is more important than anything else, and the most important thing is getting out of prison.

Q. In 2020 you were a pacifist, and now?

A. I was and I still am. If the Coordination Council had urged people to take up arms, I dont think so many people would have taken to the streets. When the first revolution and its clashes occurred in Belarus [in 2010], some relatives from my village asked me to visit an acquaintance of theirs, a young man who was a member of the special intervention forces, OMON, who had been beaten and was in the hospital. I went to see him, and his bedmate was one of the young people who had protested. Seeing their mothers crying, I understood that I couldnt incite bloodshed.

Q. I understand, but there are situations

A. Yes, there are hopeless situations, like those described in the latest report by U.N. Special Rapporteur Mariana Katzarova on the treatment of prisoners in Russian jails. Horrific things, like sawing off their teeth, or torturing a Ukrainian journalist and handing her over to her parents without her internal organs.

Q. Does exile unite or divide?

A. If we talk about Belarus, where the dominant theme is the experience of 2020, those who left accuse those who stayed of complicity with the regime and of apathy, and those who stayed say they are doing well and that its as if we never existed, because we left no trace. I will return to Belarus when everyone else returns. I wont return alone.

Q. Can Belarusian culture be developed in Russian, just as Irish culture is also expressed in English?

A. I am a Belarusian writer and I write in Russian.

Q. What do you think of Ukraines rejection of the Russian language and works written in Russian?

A. Im against it, but I think its a temporary phenomenon born of desperation, not a permanent trend. After all, the languages left behind by the colonizers in Africa were a path to civilization. And thats a good thing.

Q. Do you feel hatred for Lukashenko and his associates?

A. A lot, because I cant go back home, but I believe everything must be done according to the law and that they must be tried in the Hague tribunal. In the book, I have a chapter about how were going to learn to live with the executioners. I ask people. Some, like me, say they should be sent to The Hague, but there are other opinions. One man told me he wanted to see them all hanged and suffering, but I believe that hatred is a dead end, one that will get us nowhere. Dialogue is the alternative.

Q. The question is how to transform hatred into constructive energy.

A. Yes, thats why I say that the religious and political elite, writers, and artists will have a lot of work.

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British dairy farmers are being urged to take a measured, evidence-based approach to methane-reducing feed additives, as the NFU releases updated guidance on Bovaer and similar products amid growing interest  and rising debate  over their role in cutting livestock emissions.

In recent years, Defra has renewed its commitment to reducing agricultural methane as part of the UKs climate targets. Feed additives such as Bovaer have become a central focus, with government, retailers and processors exploring whether they can form part of lower-carbon supply chains.

The NFU, which sits on the national methane-inhibitors roundtable, says no single product is a silver bullet and that any new technology must work in real farm systems, uphold welfare standards and complement other emissions-reducing tools such as genetics and efficiency gains.

Bovaer, currently the only methane-suppressing feed additive approved in the UK, is claimed to reduce enteric methane emissions by an average of 27%.

It has been judged safe by the Food Standards Agency, the European Food Safety Authority and authorities in more than 70 countries. R

Regulatory trials over 15 years have not identified safety concerns for human or animal health at approved doses, and the compound breaks down naturally in the rumen, meaning it is not present in milk or meat. An FSA spokesperson reiterated that milk from cows given Bovaer  is safe to drink.

NFU Dairy Board chair Paul Tompkins said farmers remain rightly proud and protective of dairys reputation, stressing that only products which have undergone full certification and safety testing should be considered for use on British farms.

Recent UK trials, run by dairy processor Arla with retailer partners, drew intense public scrutiny  including social-media campaigns and consumer concerns. The NFU said this reinforced the need for clarity, transparency and long-term data before any additive is considered at scale.

Tompkins said the trials could help provide some of this evidence, but highlighted ongoing questions over practicality, consistency, cost and consumer buy-in.

The NFU emphasised that methane-reducing additives should remain optional tools, used only once robust science, risk assessments and practical feasibility are fully understood.

Denmark became the first country to mandate methane-reduction measures in 2025, requiring farmers to use approved additives or raise feed-fat levels. Bovaer is currently the only approved product, with farmers receiving subsidies to cover the additional cost.

Recent reports of cattle illness linked to feed management have prompted investigations. Manufacturer dsm-firmenich said it is actively engaging with authorities and noted that in previously assessed cases, Bovaer was not identified as a contributing factor.

Tompkins said animal welfare must continue to be our highest priority, adding that any future policy must be guided by science, commercial practicality and clear communication with farmers and consumers.

The NFU maintains that methane-reducing additives may eventually form part of a broader toolkit  but warns that good policy will require incentives, farmer choice and full transparency as trials continue.
Widely regarded as a hub of global street food, Singapore is a dynamic island where cultures collide deliciously. The street food scene in the city-state is a microcosm of its multicultural society, with Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan culinary traditions blending to create unmissable flavours. The amazing fare can be found on food streets and in bustling hawker centres, and you will be vying with locals for space at the stalls that have a deservedly good reputation. In fact, Singapores hawker culture is so iconic that it has been inscribed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage  which honours generations of cooks and their gleaming stalls.





Legendary hawker precincts in Singapore include Old Airport Road, Newton Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat, and Maxwell Food Centre. Hit them to savour these must-try street foods  youll be biting into the story of Singapore.
The Indian Film and Television Directors Association (IFTDA) has formally approached Mumbai Police after a section of paparazzi and digital media allegedly crossed serious boundaries while veteran actor Dharmendra was unwell. The organisation wants strict action against those who, according to them, ignored basic ethics and intruded on the Deol familys private space.





In a complaint addressed to the Senior Inspector of Juhu Police Station, IFTDA President Ashoke Pandit raised concerns about how certain photographers behaved outside Dharmendras home. The letter stated that these individuals breached privacy by entering the compound and recording footage and images of his family members without consent, later circulating them online. The association strongly criticised the behaviour, calling it inhuman and unethical.





The Indian Film & Television Directors Association (IFTDA) has issued a statement condemning the false rumours about #DharmendraDeol's death. pic.twitter.com/W6Sdj3e7d3  Jaideep Pandey (@PandeyJaideep) November 11, 2025



Dharmendra, 89, was recently hospitalised at Breach Candy Hospital for a minor illness and is now recovering at home. His health scare attracted heavy media presence outside the Deol residence, leading to growing public frustration with paparazzi conduct.





Earlier on the same day the complaint was filed, Sunny Deol confronted the photographers standing outside his house. Visibly emotional, he told them, Aap logon ko sharam aayni chaiyeh Aapke ghar mein maa-baap hain, bacche hain. He folded his hands, asking the media to show sensitivity during a difficult moment for the family.





The backlash didnt stop there. Several well-known filmmakers voiced their disapproval of the situation. Karan Johar called the scene a media circus in his Instagram Story, saying the lack of courtesy and sensitivity was deeply upsetting. Director Madhur Bhandarkar also urged for responsible coverage, writing, Its high time for the media to respect the Deol familys personal privacy. Lets offer them the peaceful space they truly need, especially during challenging times.





IFTDA also released an official statement denouncing false online rumours about Dharmendras death, emphasising the need for responsible reporting. Dharmendra is currently at home, surrounded by family and continuing his recovery while industry voices rally behind the call for media discipline.





Also Read: Salman Khan Gets Emotional Speaking About Dharmendra During a Press Meet in Qatar
The first visuals from Christopher Nolans ambitious new film The Odyssey are finally here, giving fans a glimpse into his retelling of Homers legendary Greek epic. The exclusive images, shared through Empire magazine, reveal the characters played by Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway and Mia Goth. The film features Matt Damon in the lead role as Odysseus and is scheduled to release in theatres on July 17, 2026.





Tom Holland takes on the role of Telemachus, the son of Odysseus. His first look shows him suited in armour, wearing a determined expression that hints at the weight his character carries in the story. The poster has already sparked excitement among fans who have been waiting for updates since the project was announced.





Check this out:





View this post on Instagram A post shared by Empire (@empiremagazine)



Anne Hathaway, who has earlier worked with Nolan in Interstellar and The Dark Knight Rises, appears as Penelope, the loyal wife of Odysseus. In the first poster, she is dressed in a royal blue gown with a red sash, holding a bow as she gazes into the distance.





Mia Goth, known for Pearl, will play Melantho, one of Penelopes maids. She stands behind Hathaway in a simple brown costume, suggesting the contrast between the two characters lives.





View this post on Instagram A post shared by Empire (@empiremagazine)





Nolan has gone all out for this film. He recently revealed that he shot over two million feet of 65mm film to capture the story, a choice that reportedly cost around 3 million Dollars. The entire movie has been filmed on IMAX, with the director sharing that the team even shot on open seas to recreate the scale of Odysseus long and dangerous journey home after the Trojan War. He described the shoot as pretty primal, saying the experience helped the cast truly understand the hardships of ancient voyages.




The head of the European think tank Bruegel argues that Washington, under the Trump administration, has become an unreliable partner, and this strengthens Chinas ties with Latin America, Africa, and Asia

Jeromin Zettelmeyer, in a photograph provided by Bruegel. Bruegel

Bruegel, the European think tank led by Jeromin Zettelmeyer, 61, recently published a report on the risks and scenarios of geopolitical movements on the global stage. In that report, Zettelmeyer himself predicts a world divided into three blocs, dominated by the rivalry between China and the United States.

The most interesting thing is to analyze where Europe will be. It will never be in Chinas bloc, but it will not necessarily be in the U.S. bloc either. If Washington continues to exercise coercive leadership, we will end up in the non-aligned camp, alongside India and most developing countries. It depends on the U.S., the economist said during a recent trip to Madrid to celebrate Bruegels 20th anniversary.

Question. Is Trumps policy pushing some of Americas traditional allies into Beijings arms?

Answer. The most notable development so far has been the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting, with its strong symbolic weight of seeing Indian leader Narendra Modi alongside Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong-un. This does not establish an alliance, but it is concerning.

Although India will remain in the non-aligned camp, it continues to have border disputes with China and has not developed a manufacturing base that would allow it to compete with Beijing. In the case of Africa and Latin America, some countries have significant ties to China through the Belt and Road Initiative, but others have been negatively impacted, such as Ecuador, Peru, and Suriname. These countries may be compelled to reduce their dependence on the U.S., given the experience with free trade agreements in the region, but this doesnt directly push them into Chinas camp, whose main unifying factor is opposition to the West. Most countries are not in that position.

Q. Europe does have security ties.

A. Thats why NATO will give us a clue. If the Alliance stays afloat, Europe will remain on the side of the U.S. At the same time, if the EU strengthens its autonomy within NATO, as Washington is demanding, it will gain more independence in areas like trade, and there we will find common ground with countries that defend free, rules-based trade, the foundation of our model.

Q. Do you think the change in the U.S. is irreversible?

A. The U.S. has become an unreliable country. And to become reliable again, its not enough for a new Democratic administration to simply reject the policies implemented by Trump; a large majority of the Republican Party must also do so. Otherwise, we will remain in the same situation weve been in since January 6, 2021.

Q. How does Chinas overcapacity influence the shaping of this new order?

A. Its a complex story involving subsidies, but also a smart industrial policy that has fostered innovation and significantly reduced marginal costs. It also has a very positive component overall, for example, regarding cheap and clean technologies. Chinese solar panels, very affordable, may be one of the few things giving us hope for the climate transition. Its not all bad, thats what I mean to say. At the same time, I dont think this phenomenon can last, because the level of Chinese competition and its production capacity are too great; there will be some kind of upheaval.

Q. What if that doesnt happen?

A. It has become clear that the equation is not simply that they produce goods and we produce services, because an authoritarian regime like China will exploit that dependence. We will probably need tariffs, as is already happening in sectors like the automotive industry, and to impose conditions on Chinese foreign investment entering the EU.

Q. Under these conditions, could Chinas overcapacity influence geopolitical blocs?

A. Yes, especially in countries with no industry, which open their markets to very cheap Chinese products that they could produce themselves, in exchange for China building infrastructure for them. The Belt and Road Initiative was headed in that direction, but it hasnt quite worked because the fees demanded by Beijing for building the infrastructure were too high, and the countries had trouble making payments. If Beijing changes its policy and provides genuine fiscal support to those countries, then yes. But not in the military sphere.

Q. The SCO is going precisely in that direction and is turning commercial alliances into military or political alliances.

A. That only applies to countries that have neither the geographical location nor the ambition to develop a foreign or security policy that could clash with China, for example, over Taiwan.

Q. What can the EU offer in that context?

A. Europe needs to fight for these countries because we need them  first, because we need them and also China to decarbonize the global economy, and second, because this is how we reduce dependence on China for critical raw materials and other intermediate goods. Our leverage lies in being more generous to these countries in their industrialization and importing from these economies goods that are energy-intensive, which we lack on our continent. We must forge our own alliances.

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Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - November 14, 2025) - Bri-Chem Corp. (TSX: BRY) ("Bri-Chem" or "Company"), a leading North American oilfield chemical distribution and blending company, is pleased to announce its 2025 third quarter financial results.





Three months ended Nine months ended



September 30



Change



September 30



Change

(in '000s except per share amounts)

2025



2024



$



%



2025



2024



$



%

Financial performance















































Sales $ 18,194

$ 21,975

$ (3,781)



(17%)

$ 58,637

$ 62,452

$ (3,815)



(6%)

Adjusted EBITDA(1)

836



588



248



42%



2,346



851



1,495



176%

As a % of revenue

5%



3%















4%



1%













Operating earnings

576



234



342



146%



1,324



710



614



87%

Adjusted net (loss) / earnings (1)

16



(549)



565



(103%)



(542)



(2,900)



2,358



(81%)

Net earnings / (loss) $ 160

$ (269)

$ 429



(159%)

$ (95)

$ (2,263)

$ 2,168



(96%)

Per diluted share















































Adjusted EBITDA (1) $ 0.03

$ 0.02

$ 0.01



50%

$ 0.09

$ 0.03

$ 0.06



200%

Adjusted net earnings / (loss) (1) $ -

$ (0.02 ) $ 0.02



(93%)

$ (0.02 ) $ (0.11 ) $ 0.09



(82%)

Net earnings / (loss) $ 0.01

$ (0.01 ) $ 0.02



(134%)

$ (0.00 ) $ (0.09 ) $ 0.09



(100%)

Financial position































Total assets















$ 48,855

$ 57,101

$ (8,246 )

(14%)

Working capital

















10,790



13,740



(2,950 )

(21%)

Long-term debt

















6,331



6,564



(233 )

(4%)

Shareholders equity















$ 19,547

$ 21,248

$ (1,701 )

(8%)



(1) Non-GAAP financial measure. Refer to "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" in this press release.

Key Q3 2025 highlights include:

Consolidated sales for the three months ended September 30, 2025 were $18.2 million, representing a 17% decrease from the prior year. The decrease is primarily due to decreased sales in the fluids distribution division in tandem with lower rig counts in North America.

Consolidated gross margin for the three months ended September 30, 2025 decreased by $180 thousand compared to the same period last year. The gross margin dollar decrease is primarily related to the decreased realized margin percentage Canada for blending & packaging division.

Adjusted EBITDA for the third quarter 2025 increased by $247 thousand when compared to the same period in the prior year and operating earnings increased by $342 thousand for the three months ended September 30, 2025 compared to the prior year due to a decrease in bad debt expense.

Adjusted net earnings per diluted share for the three months ended September 30, 2025 was nil per share compared to adjusted net loss of $0.02 per diluted share for same period last year.

Working capital, as at September 30, 2025, was $10.8 million compared to $13.7 million on September 30, 2024, a decrease of 21%. The decrease in working capital relates to a significant decrease in accounts receivables and inventory which was offset by decreased bank indebtedness.

Summary for the three months ended September 30, 2025:

Consolidated sales for the three months ended September 30, 2025 were $18.2 million compared to $22 million for the same period in 2024, representing a $3.8 million decrease over the comparable period. Revenue was impacted by lower fluid distribution sales, arising from the sale of a customer to a competitor and the subsequent discontinuation of services to the new group.

Bri-Chem's Canadian drilling fluids distribution division generated sales of $2.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2025, which was lower than the comparable prior period by 41%. The number of Canadian active operating land rigs in Q3 2025 averaged 176, compared to 206 in the same period last year representing a decrease of approximately 15% (Source: Baker Hughes). Bri-Chem's United States drilling fluids distribution division generated sales of $9.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2025, compared to sales of $11.7 million for the comparable period in 2024, representing a quarterly decrease of 19%. The active number of US operating land rigs in Q3 2025 averaged 525, compared to a 2024 Q3 average of 565 representing a decrease of approximately 7% (Source: Baker Hughes).

Bri-Chem's Canadian blending and packaging division generated sales of $3.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2025, compared to Q3 2024 sales of $4.6 million, representing a quarterly decrease of 19%. The decrease in sales relates to 3rd party contract work realized in 2024 that was diminished or discontinued in the current period. US blending and packaging sales for the three months ended September 30, 2025 were $2.7 million compared to $1.8 million in the prior year. The 49% increase is due to an increase in cementing activities in the California region.

Operating earnings for the three months ended September 30, 2025 was $576 thousand which is an increase from earnings of $234 thousand in the same period in the prior year. Adjusted EBITDA was $836 thousand for Q3 2025 compared to $588 thousand for Q3 2024. The increase is primarily driven by a lower expense realized across operating expenses as Management continues to streamline operations and reduce overhead. Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of sales was 5% for the quarter, which is an increase from 3% in Q3 2024.

OUTLOOK

Bri-Chem anticipates a measured but improving operating environment as the North American energy sector adjusts to ongoing commodity price volatility, evolving political and regulatory pressures, and a cautious yet gradually recovering capital spending cycle. According to the latest Baker Hughes forecasts, total rig activity in both Canada and the United States is expected to remain relatively stable through the remainder of 2025, with modest growth emerging in early 2026 as producers begin to increase drilling and completion programs in response to improved price stability and demand fundamentals.

In Canada, drilling activity is projected to follow historical seasonal trends, with winter drilling providing a moderate uplift in fluids demand through early 2026. However, overall volumes are expected to remain below pre-pandemic averages due to restrained capital budgets and project deferrals in certain basins. By mid-2026, a return to more normalized activity levels is anticipated as operators gain confidence in forward pricing and regulatory clarity improves.

In the United States, rig counts are expected to stabilize and gradually strengthen over the next year, led by consistent investment in the Permian Basin and incremental growth in other key regions such as the Rockies and Mid-Continent. These trends are expected to support steady demand for Bri-Chem's drilling fluid distribution business and create opportunities for incremental market share gains in select basins.

Against this backdrop, Bri-Chem will continue to prioritize liquidity preservation, disciplined working capital management, and cost efficiency to sustain margin performance in a competitive pricing environment. The Company's proactive financial management and strong banking relationships will remain central to its ability to navigate market fluctuations and pursue growth selectively where returns justify investment.

Following Bri-Chem's Annual General Meeting in September 2025, the Company welcomed a new Board of Directors with a renewed mandate to drive operational performance, strengthen governance, and enhance long-term shareholder value. Collectively, the new Board brings over 100 years of combined experience in the chemical industry, offering deep sector knowledge and valuable insights that will help guide Bri-Chem's strategic direction and operational focus in the years ahead.

In conjunction with this leadership transition, Bri-Chem will undertake a comprehensive strategic review of all business units. This initiative is designed to evaluate performance, profitability, and long-term alignment with the Company's core objectives. The outcomes of this review are expected to shape future organizational priorities, improve capital allocation, and position Bri-Chem as a leaner, more profitable, and strategically focused entity heading into 2026 and beyond.

Management remains committed to operating with agility and discipline as it monitors commodity price trends, customer spending behaviors, and regulatory developments across North America. With a renewed strategic focus, strengthened leadership, and a stabilizing market outlook, Bri-Chem is well positioned to capture value as industry conditions gradually improve over the coming year.

About Bri-Chem

Bri-Chem has established itself, through a combination of strategic acquisitions and organic growth, as the North American industry leader for wholesale distribution and blending of oilfield drilling, completion, stimulation and production chemical fluids. We sell, blend, package and distribute a full range of drilling fluid products from 23 strategically located warehouses throughout Canada and the United States. Additional information about Bri-Chem is available at www.sedarplus.ca or at Bri-Chem's website at www.brichem.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information or forward-looking statements (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). 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 statements and are based on the Company's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially.

Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. By their nature, such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results or expectations expressed herein. These risks and uncertainties, include, but are not limited to general economic conditions, prevailing and anticipated industry conditions, access to debt and equity financing on acceptable terms, levels and volatility of commodity prices, maintained demand for drilling fluids, market forces, ability to achieve geographic expansion through new warehouse locations, anticipated impact of new warehouse locations, ability to obtain equipment from suppliers, ability to maintain negotiating power with suppliers and customers, ability to obtain and retain skilled personnel, competition from other industry participants and regulatory conditions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on this forward-looking information, which is given as of the date it is expressed in this press release or otherwise. Except as required by applicable law, the Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or to revise any of the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The forward-looking statements contained in this document are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Bri-Chem uses certain measures in this press release which do not have any standardized meaning as prescribed by International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"). These measures, which are derived from information reported in the Company's financial statements, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other reporting issuers. Investors are cautioned that these measures should not be construed as an alternative to net earnings and operating earnings determined in accordance with IFRS, and these measures should not be considered to be more meaningful than IFRS measures in evaluating the Company's performance. These measures have been described and presented in this press release in order to provide shareholders and potential investors with additional information regarding the Company. These Non-IFRS measures are identified and defined as follows:

Adjusted Net Earnings (Loss), Adjusted Net Earnings (Loss) per share, Adjusted EBITDA, and Adjusted EBITDA per share.

Adjusted Net Earnings (Loss) are defined as net earnings/(loss) before non-recurring events, net of corporate income taxes ("Adjusted Net Earnings"). Adjusted Net Earnings (Loss) per share is defined as Adjusted Net Earnings (Loss) divided by diluted weighted average common shares. Management believes that in addition to net earnings, Adjusted Net Earnings (Loss) and Adjusted Net Earnings (Loss) per share are useful supplemental measures that represent normalized net earnings (loss) from the business so that financial statement users can make insightful comparisons between current periods and historical results.

Adjusted EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, impairment charges, share-based payments, and non-recurring events ("Adjusted EBITDA"). Adjusted EBITDA per share is defined as Adjusted EBITDA divided by diluted weighted average common shares. Management believes that in addition to net earnings, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA per share are useful supplemental measures of operating performance that normalize financing, depreciation, income tax, and other non-recurring charges which are not controlled at the operating level. The following table provides a reconciliation of Net Earnings under IFRS, as disclosed in the interim financial statements, to Adjusted Net Earnings and Adjusted EBITDA:





Three months ended



Nine months ended









September 30







September 30

(in 000's)

2025



2024



2025



2024

Net earnings (loss) $ 160

$ (269 )

$ (95 ) $ (2,263 ) Less:















Deferred tax (recovery)

(144 )

(280 )

(447 )

(637 ) Adjusted net earnings (loss)

16



(549 )

(542 )

(2,900 ) Add:















Financing costs

570



788



1,952



2,670

Income tax expense

(27 )

41



38



116

Depreciation and amortization

276



308



898



965

Adjusted EBITDA $ 836

$ 588



$ 2,346

$ 851



To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/274670

SOURCE: Bri-Chem Corp.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - November 14, 2025) - Diamond Estates Wines & Spirits Inc. (TSXV: DWS) ("Diamond Estates" or the "Company") wishes to announce that it will hold a Special Meeting of its Shareholders (the Meeting") on December 22, 2025 at 9:00 AM (EST).

Matters to be considered at the Meeting will include the approval and ratification of the license agreement of May 10, 2024 between Diamond Estates Wines & Spirits Ltd. ("Diamond Ltd.", a 100% owned subsidiary of the Company) and 3346625 Canada Inc. ("Lassonde Holdings"), the holding company of Mr. Pierre-Paul Lassonde, a control shareholder of Lassonde Industries Inc. ("Lassonde"), two related parties of the Company (the "License Agreement") as it relates to, among other things, royalty rates paid by Diamond Ltd. to Lassonde Holdings based on sales of D'Ont Poke the Bear ("DPTB") brands, and also options given by Lassonde Holdings to Diamond Ltd. to acquire the DPTB trademarks at certain times. The License Agreement was previously announced by the Company in a news release dated May 13, 2024.

Further information about the Meeting and the matters to be considered will be included in the Management Information Circular (the "Circular") being provided in connection with the Meeting. The Notice of Meeting, Circular, and related proxy materials will be filed on the Company's website and on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca by November 28, 2025, and provided to shareholders.

About Diamond Estates Wines and Spirits Inc.

Diamond Estates Wines and Spirits Inc. is a producer of high-quality wines and ciders as well as a sales agent for over 120 beverage alcohol brands across Canada. The Company operates four production facilities, three in Ontario and one in British Columbia, that produce predominantly VQA wines under such well-known brand names as 20 Bees, Creekside, D'Ont Poke the Bear, EastDell, Lakeview Cellars, Mindful, Shiny Apple Cider, Fresh Wines, Red Tractor, Seasons, Serenity and Backyard Vineyards.

Through its commercial division, Trajectory Beverage Partners, the Company serves as the sales agent for a wide range of leading international beverage brands.

Wine Portfolio:

Trajectory represents renowned wine brands, including Fat Bastard and Gabriel Meffre from France; Kaiken from Argentina; Kings of Prohibition from Australia; Yealands, Kono, Tohu, and Joiy Sparkling Wine from New Zealand; Talamonti and Cielo from Italy; Porta 6, Julia Florista, Boas Quintas, Catedral, and Cabeca de Toiro from Portugal; as well as C.K Mondavi & Family, Charles Krug, Line 39, Harken, FitVine, and Rabble from California. Trajectory also represents a broad portfolio of wines sold exclusively to restaurants, bars and private consumers.

Spirits Portfolio:

The Company also represents distinguished spirit brands such as Tag Vodka, Ginslinger Gin, and Barnburner Whisky from Ontario; Cofradia Tequila and Hussong's Tequila from Mexico; Islay Mist and Waterproof blended Scotch whiskies from Scotland; Glen Breton Canadian whiskies from Nova Scotia; Five Farms Irish Cream Liqueur and Broker's Gin from the UK; Tequila Rose Strawberry Cream, 360 Vodka, and Holladay Bourbon from the USA; Giffard Liqueurs from France; and Becherovka from the Czech Republic.

Beer, Cider, and RTD Portfolio:

In the beer, cider, and ready-to-drink (RTD) categories, Trajectory represents Bench Beer, Henderson Beer, Niagara Craft Cider, TAG and Ginslinger RTDs, and Darling Mimosas from Ontario; Rodenbach beer from Belgium; La Trappe beer from the Netherlands; and Warsteiner beer from Germany.

For more information, please contact:



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 contains forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Diamond Estates Wines and Spirits Inc. to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Actual results and developments are likely to differ, and may differ materially, from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Such forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions which may prove to be incorrect, including, but not limited to: the economy generally; consumer interest in the services and products of the Company; financing; competition; and anticipated and unanticipated costs. While the Company acknowledges that subsequent events and developments may cause its views to change, the Company specifically disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the views of the Company as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/274678

SOURCE: Diamond Estates Wines & Spirits Inc.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 14, 2025) - CENTURION MINERALS LTD. (TSXV: CTN) ("Centurion" or the "Company") announces that the Company's audited annual financial statements and the related management's discussion and analysis for the financial year ended July 31, 2025 (the "Required Filings"), are not expected to be finalized by November 28, 2025, being the date that such filings are due under applicable Canadian securities law requirements. The Company has applied to the British Columbia Securities Commission as the Company's Principal Regulator for a management cease trade order (the "MCTO").

Reasons for the anticipated delay are certain administrative delays in relation to the audit.

The Company currently expects to file the Required Filings on or before January 27, 2026, and will issue a press release announcing completion of such filings once completed. Until the Company files the Required Filings, it will comply with the alternative information guidelines set out in National Policy 12-203 - Management Cease Trade Orders. These guidelines require the Company to issue bi-weekly default status reports by way of a press release during the period of the MCTO.

During the MCTO, the general investing public will continue to be able to trade in the Company's listed common shares; however, the Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer will not be able to trade in the Company's common shares.

About Centurion Minerals Ltd.

Centurion Minerals Ltd. is a Canadian-based company with a focus on precious mineral asset exploration and development in the Americas. Centurion can earn a 100% interest in the Casa Berardi West Gold Project which is located in the prolific gold-producing, greenstone belt of the central Abitibi Subprovince of north-eastern Ontario.

"David G. Tafel"

CEO and Director

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This press 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. Forward-looking information in this press release includes statements about the expected filing of the Required Filings and the grant of the MTCO.

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, without limitations, information based on the current status of the Required Filings. 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, and there is no guarantee the Required Filings will be made on the timeline currently expected or at all or that the MCTO will be granted. If the MCTO is not granted and/or if the Required Filings are subject to additional delays, the securities of the Company could be subject to a cease trade order or other actions taken by the securities regulators and/or the stock exchange(s) on which the Company's securities are listed. 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 the Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events, or developments, except as required by law.

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/274675

SOURCE: Centurion Minerals Ltd.
KUALA LUMPUR, MY / ACCESS Newswire / November 14, 2025 / In a defining moment for Malaysia's creative and cultural landscape, His Excellency the Governor of Penang, Tun Dato' Seri DiRaja Ramli Ngah Talib, and The Right Honourable Chief Minister of Penang, Chow Kon Yeow, officiated the opening ceremony of the Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery this morning at The Light Waterfront, Gelugor.

From L-R: Yang Amat Berhormat Tuan Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang; His Excellency Tun Dato' Seri Utama Haji Ramli bin Ngah Talib, Yang di-Pertua of the State of Penang; Professor Lin Xiang Xiong, Founder of Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery

The event signified Malaysia's growing presence on the global cultural map. Set against Penang's coastline, the gallery represents a convergence of diplomacy, heritage, and the transformative power of creativity, reflecting a broader national aspiration to project peace and cultural confidence through the arts.

Attended by business and government leaders, artists as well as representatives from the arts and academic sectors, the opening ceremony highlighted Penang's emergence as an international cultural destination. The Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery, is envisioned as a permanent platform for cultural exchange and global dialogue, bridging East and West through artistic collaboration.

In his remarks, Professor Lin Xiang Xiong, founder of the gallery, expressed that the project was not only an artistic pursuit, but also a reflection of Malaysia's values in an increasingly divided world. "At a time when differences dominate global narratives, Malaysia has chosen to respond with creativity and compassion. This gallery is not only a tribute to art but a commitment to dialogue; a reminder that peace is built through understanding." he said.

The attendance of His Excellency the Governor of Penang and The Right Honourable Chief Minister of Penang underscored the State's recognition of the arts as a vital pillar of cultural and social progress. Their presence lent significance to the occasion, reflecting Penang's continued commitment to nurturing creative development and international cultural exchange.

Guests were invited to a private preview of the fifth floor "The Vicissitudes of Life", featuring 99 artworks by Professor Lin Xiang Xiong that confront pressing global isses such as war, pollution and poverty. The collection invites reflection on humanity's shared struggles and hopes, underscoring Prof Lin's lifelong dedication to promoting peace through art.

As one of the region's most ambitious privately founded cultural projects, the Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery is set to host international symposiums, artist residencies, and educational programmes. Beyond serving as an exhibition space, it will act as a cultural think tank, nurturing partnerships with art institutions, universities, and peace organizations around the world.

The opening ceremony signifies the beginning of this broader mission. Following the event, the gallery will not be open to the public as final curatorial preparations and international coordination are still underway. The actual public opening date will be announced at a later date, once all arrangements are finalized to ensure a meaningful and well-prepared visitor experience. We thank you for your understanding and look forward to meeting you at Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery.

###

About Lin Xiang Xiong

Professor Lin Xiang Xiong is a renowned artist, entrepreneur, and advocate for global security through art. As President of the Global Chinese Arts & Culture Association, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Art, and a visiting Professor at Peking University, Lin's work crosses disciplines and borders, connecting Eastern and Western cultures.

After leaving China for Singapore in 1956, Lin pursued art studies at the Academy of Arts (1965-1968). Success in business, particularly in the mining industry in Malaysia, funded his travels, art remained his personal refuge and lifelong passion.

His painting style is a dynamic combination of abstraction, traditional techniques, and contemporary social commentary, touching on themes such as climate change, war, forced migration, and the human condition. Despite being involved in the commercial field, Lin has never neglected his commitment to art as a force for good.

In 2025, he was awarded the Gold Medal of Honor in Paris and delivered a keynote on "Art for Peace." He presented The Vicissitudes of Life exhibition and launched the Art for Peace Prize, attracting 1,883 submissions from 100 countries. Later, he joined the Board of Leaders for Peace and helped initiate "Presenting Peace Through Art," advancing art as a tool for dialogue, reconciliation, and global understanding.

Professor Lin has published numerous works, including 8 collections of paintings and 27 volumes of essay and art criticism.

For media information, kindly contact:

Triven Marketing Group, for Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery

Jazzmin Wan

Email: j.wan@swanconsultancy.biz

SOURCE: Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/travel/penangs-cultural-horizon-expands-with-the-launch-of-the-lin-xiang-xiong-art-gallery-1102756
PULLMAN PROUDLY REVEALS ITS GLOBAL BRAND TRANSFORMATION, POSITIONING HOTELS AS VIBRANT PLACES OF EXCHANGE FOLLOWING THE SUCCESSFUL DEBUT OF PULLMAN xCHANGE IN DUBAI.

PARIS, Nov. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pullman Hotels & Resorts, part of Accor's global Premium portfolio, today unveiled its global brand transformation and vision for the future - a milestone designed to inspire, energize and strengthen Pullman's position as one of the world's most dynamic hotel brands.

The announcement follows the successful international debut of Pullman xChange, a new global event series designed to ignite bold ideas and invite fresh perspectives among leaders, creators, and innovators.

The New Pullman Experience

Since 1859, Pullman has reimagined what it means to travel, meet and connect. Today marks the next chapter in that legacy - one built around exchange. The brand's transformation redefines the hotel as a dynamic social stage, designed to reflect the fluid rhythm of today's traveler.

A striking expression of the new brand language is the Pullman Portal. Inspired by the railway tunnels of Pullman's past, these sculptural entryways mark the transition into a distinct world of exchange. Each Portal acts as a bold architectural signature - recognizable globally, yet reinterpreted locally through materials, form, and color. Guests can already experience the Pullman Portal at Pullman Dubai Jumeirah Lake Towers, while upcoming openings including Pullman Perth Airport and Pullman Hamilton will introduce the design signature to new markets. Further installations will roll out across the network as renovation programs progress.

Meeting and event spaces have also been re-imagined with flexibility at their core - places designed to transform with ease from keynote venue to creative studio, from workshop arena to cultural runway - celebrating the belief that exchange thrives in environments built for possibility.

A New Culinary Stage

Culinary and mixology experiences sit at the heart of the Pullman experience. Bars take center stage as social anchors, alive from the first espresso to the final cocktail. This new era will see menus prioritize spontaneity, shareability, and global flavors, encouraging guests to stay, mingle, and discover.

Launching in 2026, Unexpected Pairings is an experiential bar ritual that will invite guests to draw from a deck of playing cards to discover imaginative flavor combinations of food and cocktails. The experience playfully redefines the art of mixology and dining, encouraging playful curiosity and provoking conversation and exchange through contrast, discovery, and taste.

Human-Centric Service for a New Generation

Over the past 18 months, Pullman has introduced a new learning program for its teams, focused on empathy, cultural awareness, and connection-building. The service culture is grounded in emotional intelligence, empowering Heartists to blend confidence, intuition, and genuine human warmth within every guest interaction.

To date, around 60% of Pullman's 20,000+ Heartists have completed the training, with the remainder set to follow in 2026, equipping teams to respond to guests not only efficiently, but with greater insight and sincere care.

Pullman xChange: Where Vision Meets Legacy

Held from 13 to 14 November 2025, the inaugural Pullman xChange transformed Pullman Dubai Downtown into a live forum for creative collision. Developed with the House of Beautiful Business - a global think tank and community connecting business, technology, and the arts - the experience explored ideas, innovations, and cultural shifts under the theme Build What Outlasts You.

The event forms part of a three-year collaboration between Pullman and the House of Beautiful Business, bringing together a hospitality leader and a global community of creatives and thinkers. Together, the partnership will cultivate a new era of purposeful gatherings, thought leadership, and exchange across continents.

The program in Dubai featured immersive workshops, artistic performances, and discussions led by pioneering voices including Abdulaziz AlJaziri, Deputy CEO & COO of the Dubai Future Foundation; neuroscientist Hannah Critchlow; cyberpsychologist Elaine Kasket; and architect Adib Dada.

Rooted in the belief that progress begins when we challenge what we know and see the familiar with fresh perspective, Pullman xChange blends dialogue, artistic expression, and sensory experience.

In 2026, Pullman xChange will come to life in Europe, Asia, and South America, each edition co-created with a cultural collective to reflect local context.

Momentum for Growth

"Pullman's transformation marks a bold step into the future - one that fuses our heritage of movement and modernity with a renewed sense of purpose", explains Benoit Racle, Global Brand President, Premium, Accor. "Each hotel is conceived as a place of exchange, where ideas and people move freely, fostering creativity and connection. Launching this transformation alongside Pullman xChange felt instinctive, as the event truly brings our brand philosophy to life. It embodies our new spirit - dynamic, connected, and alive with possibility. And this is only the beginning of a movement that will continue to unfold across our hotels worldwide."

With more than 150 hotels in over 40 countries and more than 70 projects in the pipeline, Pullman continues to strengthen its global presence in key destinations across the Middle East, Asia, the Pacific, Europe, and Africa. The brand is on track to surpass 200 hotels and resorts within five years, fueled by owner confidence and growing demand for elevated, culturally attuned premium hospitality.

In 2026 and beyond, new addresses including Pullman Royal Key Wellness Resort in Guadeloupe, Pullman Kolasin Breza in Montenegro, and Pullman Tokyo Ginza in Japan, will showcase Pullman's commitment to transformative architecture, creative exchange, and revitalized spaces that bring the Pullman spirit to life.

Press Kit: Click here

About Pullman

Pullman Hotels & Resorts is where people, cultures and ideas collide. As a platform for social exchanges, Pullman invites global travellers and modern visionaries to meet, collaborate, and engage in transformative spaces. More than 150 addresses around the world act as cultural hubs in the world's most dynamic destinations, from Pullman Paris Montparnasse to Pullman Singapore Orchard and Pullman Maldives Maamutaa. Born over 150 years ago with an open-minded spirit, Pullman continues to evolve as a connector of people and ideas. Pullman is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,700 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL Accor, a booking platform and loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

pullman.com | all.com | group.accor.com

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Saab has today signed a contract with the Colombian Government and received an order for 17 Gripen E/F fighter aircraft. The order value is EUR 3.1 billion and deliveries will take place 2026-2032.

The contract includes 15 Gripen E one-seater and two Gripen F two-seater fighter aircraft as well as associated equipment and weapons, training and services.

Saab and the Colombian Government have today also signed two offset agreements outlining the framework for various military and social projects. These cover a comprehensive industrial cooperation package that will benefit Colombia in areas including aeronautics, cyber security, health, sustainable energy and water purification technology.

"I am honored that Colombia has chosen Gripen E/F to enhance its air defence capabilities and delighted to welcome Colombia into the Gripen family. This marks the beginning of a strong and long-term partnership that will strengthen Colombia's defence and security, benefit its people, and boost the nation's innovation power," says Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab.



Contact

Mattias Radstrom

Head of Media Relations

+46 (0)734 180 018

presscentre@saabgroup.com



Saab is a leading defence and security company with an enduring mission, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 26,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world. Saab designs, manufactures and maintains advanced systems in aeronautics, weapons, command and control, sensors and underwater systems. Saab is headquartered in Sweden. It has major operations all over the world and is part of the domestic defence capability of several nations.

The information is such that Saab AB is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person set out above, on 15 November 2025 at 00.15 (CET).
Perth, Australia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 15, 2025) - West Coast Silver (ASX: WCE) is pleased to announce the company is participating in the upcoming 121 Mining Investment Conference in London. Bruce Garlick of West Coast Silver will be presenting about the Company's recent and future planned activities.

121 Mining Investment London will be hosting over 150 mining companies and more than 500 sophisticated investors for two days of pre-arranged, targeted 1-2-1 meetings.

Alongside the curated schedule of pre-booked meetings matching investors with appropriate projects, the conference programme will provide expert commentary and the latest market intelligence on key industry developments.

This year's event is being held on Nov 17-18.

Any investors who would like to attend 121 Mining Investment London can register for a free pass here.

About 121 Mining Investment

The 121 Mining Investment global event series connects portfolio managers and analysts from institutional funds, private equity groups and family offices with mining company management teams for 1-2-1, private in-person meetings.

121 Mining Investment has an ever-expanding global portfolio, currently covering London, New York, Cape Town, Dubai and Singapore, as well as online editions throughout the year.

About West Coast Silver

West Coast Silver (WCE) is an exploration and development company focused on the discovery and development of the Elizabeth Hill Silver Project, in the Tier 1, West Pilbara province, supported by a platform of complementary, in-demand resource projects.

SOURCE: 121 Mining Investment Conference
MIAMI, Nov. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Peter Nobel, Chairman of the Nobel Sustainability Trust (NST), and Tracy Wang, Chief Executive Officer of NST, expressed their profound admiration for Qatar's remarkable achievements and forward-looking vision in sustainability, innovation, and environmental stewardship during their recent visit to Doha.

The delegation from NST was deeply impressed by Qatar's unwavering commitment to creating a sustainable future, one that not only safeguards the environment but also inspires a global movement toward responsible growth and a better world for generations to come.

In a special meeting, H.E. Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiya, Minister of Municipality and Chairman of Qatari Diar, shared invaluable insights into Qatar's strategic approach and the nation's relentless drive to remain ahead of the curve. His Excellency emphasized how Qatar's leadership continues to challenge conventional thinking, innovate across sectors, and integrate sustainability into every layer of national development.

The visit also included presentations from other Qatar entities, where NST delegates witnessed first-hand groundbreaking sustainability initiatives. These accomplishments further reinforce Qatar's position as a beacon of excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable advancement.

"What we have seen in Qatar is nothing short of inspirational and transformative," said Peter Nobel, Chairman of the Nobel Sustainability Trust. "Qatar is not only achieving sustainability milestones but is redefining what it means to lead with vision, purpose, and responsibility. The entire nation-its leadership, institutions, and people, should take immense pride in these achievements."

Tracy Wang, CEO of NST, added: "The spirit of collaboration and innovation we have witnessed here reflects a nation determined to build a legacy of progress. Qatar's example will serve as a global benchmark for sustainable transformation."

The Nobel Sustainability Trust reaffirmed its commitment to showcasing Qatar's accomplishments on the world stage, recognizing the nation as a leading force in sustainable development, innovation, and the pursuit of a better future for all.

About Nobel Sustainability Trust (NST):

The Nobel Sustainability Trust, founded by members of the Nobel family, promotes global initiatives and partnerships that advance sustainable innovation, renewable energy, and responsible development. The Trust honors and collaborates with leaders and nations that exemplify excellence in shaping a sustainable world.

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BEIJING, Nov. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On November 13, 2025, the third China-Jordan Friendship Dialogue was held in Beijing. Under the theme "Openness, Heritage and Mutual Learning: Building a Cultural Bridge Between China and Jordan," the event brought together more than 200 representatives from universities, enterprises, and government institutions from China, Jordan, Egypt, and other countries and regions.

Yu Yingfu, vice president of the China International Communications Group, Hussam Al Husseini, Jordanian ambassador to China, Guo Wei, Chinese ambassador to Jordan, and Ding Hao, standing committee member of the CPC Committee and vice president of Beijing Foreign Studies University, delivered remarks. Jamal Dmour, head of the Jordanian Chinese Friendship Society, and Zhang Liang, spokesperson of the State Development and Investment Corporation, delivered keynote speeches.

During the dialogue, the "Be the Sun Wukong in Your World" Global Children's Arts Education Program was launched. Centered on aesthetic education, the program uses Sun Wukong as a cultural symbol to foster cross-cultural understanding and friendship. Starting in Jordan, it will turn China's rich aesthetic traditions into creative art-education courses for local children, helping them appreciate the beauty of the cultures of both countries.

During the event, Yu Yingfu, Hussam Al Husseini, and other leaders presented books, including Arabic editions of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China and Zhuangzi, and Chinese editions of The Jordanian Spirit: Selected Jordanian Poems and Jordan Through Details: A Selection of Jordanian Short Stories, to young representatives from China and Arab countries.

The roundtable session focused on China-Arab cultural exchanges in the era of digital intelligence. Scholars from Beijing Foreign Studies University, young Jordanian sinologists, and reporters from CGTN Arabic shared results in using new technologies to advance cultural exchange. Participants agreed that virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and other tools will make cultural communication more vivid and effective.

The organizers held a flash-mob singing activity featuring Chinese and foreign youth in Beihai Park in late October as a supporting event. A photography exhibition was also held to showcase the achievements of cultural exchange between the two countries through images.

The dialogue was co-hosted by the China International Communications Group and Beijing Foreign Studies University, with support from the State Development and Investment Corporation. Through these diverse forms of engagement, China and Jordan are jointly writing a new chapter of mutual learning between civilizations.

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Perth, Australia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 15, 2025) - Visa Empire, one of Australia's fastest-growing migration consultancies, is proud to announce the opening of two new offices in Perth, Western Australia, increasing its footprint to three locations in the city. This strategic expansion is a testament to Visa Empire's ongoing commitment to helping migrants access the personalized migration support they need, while reinforcing its reputation as a trusted provider of ethical, transparent migration services.

Visa Empire Expands Its Presence with New Offices in Perth, Australia

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"We are excited to extend our services to more communities across Perth," said Neet Dhillon, CEO and Co-Founder of Visa Empire. "With three locations now, we're able to offer more direct support to individuals and families seeking migration opportunities and build on our mission to serve the diverse and dynamic communities in Perth."

Visa Empire's expansion into Western Australia is part of the company's broader strategy to meet growing demand for migration services across the country and internationally. By opening new offices in areas with rapidly expanding multicultural populations, Visa Empire is able to provide even more accessible services to migrants in search of permanent and skilled visa solutions.

Supporting Migration Pathways and Local Workforce Needs

As part of its expansion, Visa Empire continues to support Australia's workforce needs through specialized services that help employers access skilled migrants. This effort is particularly timely as the country faces critical workforce shortages in industries like logistics.

Visa Empire Expands Its Presence with New Offices in Perth, Australia

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"We're proud to assist employers in Western Australia, particularly in addressing labor shortages," added Mandeep Dhillon, Co-Founder of Visa Empire. "Our Labor Agreement services are an essential tool for employers looking to fill key positions and ensure compliance with migration laws while offering skilled workers opportunities in Australia."

About Visa Empire

Visa Empire is a leading international migration consultancy, providing ethical and human-centered migration services across Australia, India, and Vietnam. The company specializes in helping individuals, families, and businesses navigate the complex migration process with personalized support and expert guidance.

For more information, visit www.visaempire.com.au.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/274687

SOURCE: Plentisoft
The young reporter, who left the enclave at the end of 2023, has published a diary recounting the first weeks of Israeli bombing, in which she reflects on fear, guilt, and the dehumanization of the victims

I dont wish the choice between staying in their homeland and saving their life on anyone, says Palestinian journalist Plestia Alaqad in her book, The Eyes of Gaza: A Diary of Resilience (2025). She repeats this sentiment in an interview with this newspaper, her voice trembling with guilt, nostalgia, and a certain anger. Born in Gaza almost 24 years ago, she had just returned to the Gaza Strip after completing her university studies in Cyprus when Hamas launched its attacks on October 7, 2023, and the relentless Israeli bombing campaign began. Her live broadcasts for various media outlets, and especially her Instagram videos, began to be viewed by hundreds of thousands of people. Today, she has four million followers on this social network.

In Gaza, no matter how meticulously you plan everything, Israel will always have different plans for you, she says bitterly in a video conference conversation from Lebanon, where she has received a scholarship to study for a masters degree after leaving Gaza  thanks to relatives who hold foreign passports  at the end of November 2023.

Her book, a bestseller in English and recently translated into Spanish, is a personal diary, a journey through the first weeks of bombing and destruction in Gaza, in which denial of a world that is collapsing  the anguish of not being able to protect oneself, and the need to humanize and call by name those who die, flee, and struggle to survive  coexist.

Question. In your book, you write that in Gaza, a ceasefire  whether the current or previous ones  is just the gap between two tragedies.

Answer. Yes. I want the world to understand that in Gaza, the genocide doesnt stop when the bombs stop. It lives on in the minds and daily lives of those who survive. Since this ceasefire came into effect, Israel has killed dozens of Palestinians, and the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip continue to suffer from a lack of everything, even the most basic necessities. We want the borders open, we want freedom of movement, we want Israel to be held accountable.

Q. In your book, the word aggression, when referring to the Israeli offensive, is always written with a capital A. Why?

A. I wanted to put it this way because words matter. For example, the press talks about a war in Gaza, when its a genocide. Or they call Hind Rajab, a five-year-old girl riddled with bullets by Israeli soldiers, a woman, as if calling her a woman and not a girl somehow makes her death less serious. We have to call things by their name. And this is a capital-A Aggression.

I wonder how many times people have to start over simply because they are Palestinian and because there is an Israeli occupation

Q. You state that making plans in Gaza is pointless because nothing is under control. Even before October 7, 2023.

A. In much of the world, you wake up and decide what youre going to do, and you have your routines. In Gaza, no matter how meticulously you plan everything, Israel will always have different plans for you. You might interview a family one day and return the next to speak with them again, only to learn theyve been killed in a bombing. You might wake up planning to take a shower, but it turns out theres no water. Everything, even the smallest, most mundane act, is beyond our control.

Q. You ask in the book how many times the Palestinians must start from scratch. Its a question without an answer.

A. It is. Since 1948, when we were expelled from our homes. My grandmother had to leave Jaffa at that time; she rebuilt her life in Gaza as a child, and is now starting a new life in Australia. Thats why I wonder how many times people have to start over simply because they are Palestinian and because there is an Israeli occupation.

Q. At least 200 journalists have been violently killed since October 2023. According to Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), some of them were targeted by the military. How do you cope with the anxiety of potentially becoming a target?

A. In Gaza, the people who are supposed to report about the victims are also killed and become victims themselves. I think all the time about my colleagues who risk their lives and the lives of their families for the profession they have chosen. If it werent for them, the world wouldnt know what is happening in Gaza. And behind every number there is a name and a story. For example, I am Plestia, and I thought a lot about how my death would be reported. They might not even know how to pronounce my name correctly, or perhaps it would be a headline for a minute in a news outlet before being quickly replaced by another story. And probably, no one would condemn the person who killed me.

Leaders are afraid of refugees. They should be afraid of what causes us to be refugees and try to stop it. If there were no occupation or genocide, we wouldnt be refugees

Q. You get angry when asked why you chose to leave Gaza, and you get angry when asked if you want to return.

A. I didnt decide to leave. What choice did I have? I could stay in Gaza and wait for death, or I could take a chance on survival. The painful thing is that most people cant even consider it because they dont have another passport or relatives with other nationalities who can help them. The same thing happens when people ask me if I want to go back. I have no choice. I cant enter Gaza at the moment. And when I want to go to Western countries, its also very complicated: I have to apply for a visa and prove that Im only visiting, because the leaders are afraid of refugees. They should be afraid of what causes us to be refugees and try to stop it. If there were no occupation or genocide, we wouldnt be refugees.

Q. How do you deal with the feeling of guilt that you refer to in the book?

A. All Palestinians have to deal with survivors guilt, inside or outside Gaza. When youre in Gaza, you feel bad because your house wasnt bombed and your neighbors was. Or because your friend had a leg amputated and you didnt. Its an endless spiral of pain. And when youre outside, everything is worse. Im in a safe place now; I have a house, food, and water. Its the bare necessities, but its a luxury in Gaza.

Q. You write that the world sees Palestinians as perfect victims, but never as people. Is that still the case?

A. In some parts of the world, yes. Thats not the case in Spain, where you are very sensitive to the Palestinian issue. I know there are many flags and demonstrations in the streets and that you see us as human beings. These are examples that give us hope. The essential thing, anywhere in the world, is to differentiate between governments and the people, because there are people who are very supportive of us, even if their leaders are not.

All Palestinians have to deal with survivors guilt, inside or outside Gaza. When youre in Gaza, you feel bad because your house wasnt bombed and your neighbors was.

Q. Before October 2023, you wanted to publish articles and images that showed that Gaza was not just a place of violence and destruction, and you wanted to continue doing so after that date, despite what was happening.

A. Gaza is much more than death and demolished houses, even though right now we only see articles about the genocide Israel is committing. There are people who love life and are fighting to keep living it. My memories are in Gaza, my house is in Gaza. Even though its been demolished, its still my house. Even though Israel is trying to steal my land, its still my land.

Q. The last question is one you ask yourself at various points in the book. Who is Plestia Alaqad?

A. I answer as I end the book: There was a Plestia before October 7, 2023, a Plestia during the genocide, and there will be a version of me when all this is over, but I dont know what it will be yet.

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It was a love story that could not be. Kamini Kaushal and Dilip Kumar worked together in Shaheed and developed a fondness for each other but the actress, who was already married to her late sisters husband, chose to end things between them and it left them both shattered.

It was a love story that could not be. Kamini Kaushal and Dilip Kumar worked together in Shaheed and developed a fondness for each other but the actress, who was already married to her late sisters husband, chose to end things between them and it left them both shattered.

Kaushal, who passed away at the age of 98 in her Mumbai home on Thursday night, made a spectacular debut with 1946 movie Neecha Nagar, which went on to win the Grand Prix award at the inaugural Cannes Film Festival.

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Counted among the highest paid actresses of the 1940s and 1950s, Kaushal featured with Kumar first in Shaheed (1948), followed by hits Nadiya Ke Paar the same year, Shabnam in 1949 and Arzoo in 1950.

At the time, Kaushal was already married to brother-in-law B S Sood, the chief engineer at the Bombay Port Trust, after her sisters death in a car accident in 1948. She was an adoptive mother to two daughters and later had three sons  Rahul, Vidur and Shravan  with Sood.

The actor spoke about marrying her brother-in-law in an interview with Filmfare in 2014.

I loved my sister deeply. I feared my nieces, who were just around two and three, would flounder without a mother It seemed an ideal solution. It was not a sacrifice. I feared whether Id be able to live up to the responsibility. More so, my husband was a genteel and decent human being, she said.

About her doomed love affair with Kumar, the veteran actor said it affected them both.

We were both shattered. We were very happy with each other. We shared a great rapport. But what to do? Thats life. I cant dump people and say Enough now, Im going! I had taken on the girls. I wouldnt be able to show my face to my sister. My husband, a fine human being, understood why it happened. Everyone falls in love," she said.

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Kumar, who passed in 2021 at the age of 98, wrote about Kaushal in detail in his 2014 autobiography Dilip Kumar: The Substance and the Shadow.

He said Kaushal, whose real name Uma Kashyap, was an understanding and facile co-actor who was very attentive to the demands of the director.

(She) had the intelligence to grasp the intrinsic sensitivity of some of the more poignant situations in the script. She was an artiste who could perform with the required authority when needed Moreover, she was an educated person with whom one could have an interesting conversation. She had a noticeable fluency in speaking English, which was unusual those days for an actress

In fact, after a days intense work on scenes that called for serious emoting, we formed a small circle for some nice light-hearted conversation, in which occasionally Ashok Bhaiyya also joined. Ramesh Saigal was a good conversationalist and he was the first one to address Kamini Kaushal by her real name Uma (Kashyap) and all of us followed suit, he said.

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Kumar said the professional success of his films with Kaushal led to the public curiosity surrounding their personal relationship. He pointed out that even in the 1940s, film studios and audiences were eager to see co-stars paired together if they sensed a real-life attraction, something which is still common in the industry today.

The difference was that we conducted ourselves with dignity and we did not make headlines in newspapers and magazines or let our private lives become the target of public debate and derision. There were snoopy journalists even then, although television was yet to make its appearance. If we were emotionally involved, there was no public exhibition of it and the decorum at work was consciously maintained. Cinema wasnt seen as a respectable profession for educated ladies at the time, so actresses who came from cultured or scholarly backgrounds like like Kaushal were rare, he wrote.

I preferred the company of colleagues who were educated and well informed. Stardom bothered me more than it pleased me and I guess I was drawn more intellectually than emotionally to Uma, with whom I could talk about matters and topics that interested me outside the purview of our working relationship. If that was love, may be it was. I dont know and I dont think it matters any more, he said.

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In the same book, Kathak legend Sitara Devi  who was then married to filmmaker K Asif  recalled having seen firsthand the depth of Kumars feelings for Kaushal. The only time I felt he was drawn to a co-star was when he worked with Kamini Kaushal. I feel she was his first love. She was educated and well spoken like him and could engage him in intelligent conversation, she said.

Devi added that since Kaushal was already married to her brother-in-law, an alliance between her and Kumar was never possible, no matter what feelings existed between them.

When people started talking about them  the DilipKamini pair had become a hit with Shaheed, Shabnam  I ventured to ask him one day if there was any truth in the gossip. He remained silent and changed the subject. A couple of months later he dropped in unexpectedly.

Asif and I noticed that he was sad and hurt and he would break down. He was only in his mid-twenties then and I guessed it was the pain of breaking up with his love, she said.

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She added that Kaushal was warned by her brother and thus decided to end things with Kumar.

 She had informed Dilip Bhai that she wouldnt be working with him or seeing him any more. As he spoke to us, I saw tears welling up in his sad eyes, she recalled.
The Bihar election produced a striking outcome; the RJD secured the highest vote share at 23 per cent but won only 25 seats, while the NDA swept 202 seats. The result exposed gaps in seat distribution, alliance disunity and caste-based miscalculations that prevented the Mahagathbandhan from converting statewide support into victories

The 2025 Bihar assembly election delivered a dramatic contrast between statewide voter preference and the final distribution of seats.

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), which headed the Mahagathbandhan coalition of opposition parties, secured the largest share of votes among all political parties but suffered one of its worst seat outcomes in recent memory.

Despite contesting in more constituencies than any other party and running a visible, high-energy campaign, it finished with only 25 seats.

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Meanwhile, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) registered a sweeping victory with 202 seats, enabling the BJP-JD(U) alliance and its partners to retain control of Bihar without much resistance.

So why did a party with the highest popular support end up so far behind in the final results?

How RJD failed to convert seats

According to Election Commission data, the RJD won 23 per cent of all votes cast, surpassing not only its allies but also both major NDA constituents, the BJP and JD(U).

This level of support was marginally lower than the 23.11 per cent it achieved in 2020, but still enough to make it the single-largest vote-earning party this time.

However, seat totals tell a very different story. The RJD finished with only 25 of the 143 seats it contested, a significant drop from its 75-seat performance five years earlier.

In absolute numbers, the RJD received 1,15,46,055 votes, while the BJP, contesting 42 fewer constituencies, received 1,00,81,143 votes and secured 89 seats.

This disparity shows how the spread of votes across constituencies influences the outcome in a first-past-the-post (FPTP) system.

The RJDs substantial vote share reflected strong competition in many constituencies, but in a large number of seats, its candidates finished as runners-up. While these votes contributed to the partys total tally, they did not convert into legislative representation.

The phenomenon was also shaped by the partys decision to contest the highest number of seats among all parties. The RJD fielded candidates in 143 constituencies, compared to the BJP and JD(U), each contesting 101.

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More candidates create more opportunities to accumulate votes, including from losing candidates. But without strategic concentration of vote banks, this can inflate the vote share while not necessarily improving the seat count.

In effect, the RJD won more total votes than the BJP but did so across constituencies where those votes were not strategically distributed to convert into victories.

How Tejashwi Yadavs campaign could not deliver seats

Tejashwi Yadavs campaign marked a generational shift in Bihar politics. Positioned as the principal face of the Mahagathbandhan, he conducted large rallies, attracted sizeable turnouts, and attempted to project himself independently of his father Lalu Prasad Yadavs political legacy.

His prominence indicated that his personal appeal remained strong across many parts of Bihar, despite constant references by opponents to the jungle raj of past RJD administrations.

While he succeeded in establishing himself as the central figure of the opposition, the campaigns heavy reliance on his persona sidelined other alliance leaders, weakening representation from Congress, CPI(ML)L, CPI(M), CPI, and VIP across constituencies.

RJD framing its manifesto as Tejashwi Pran highlighted this personality-centric tactical choice. Alliance workers from the smaller constituents struggled to feel connected to a campaign dominated by one leader.

The result was that the large gatherings did not reflect an equivalent level of support on ballot day.

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How the Mahagathbandhan alliance fractures contributed to problems

Seat-sharing negotiations within the Mahagathbandhan lingered until the final stages of the pre-election period, delaying candidate announcements and weakening campaign groundwork.

Several party candidates were declared only on the last day of nominations, leaving inadequate time for constituency-level mobilisation.

The most damaging outcome of this disorganisation was the appearance of rival candidates from within the alliance in multiple seats.

In constituencies such as Vaishali, Chainpur and Bachhwara, Mahagathbandhan constituents directly competed against one another. In Bachhwara, this internal split enabled the BJP to win in a triangular contest that featured opposing candidates from the Congress and CPI.

Such internal contradictions led to widespread confusion among voters and significantly diluted the coalitions ability to present a united alternative.

In contrast, the NDA, despite housing multiple parties with their own interests and resentments, publicly projected a cohesive image throughout the campaign.

Their branding as the Five Pandavas  the BJP, JD(U), HAM, RLM and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas)  reinforced this perception of coordinated unity.

How Mahagathbandhan failed to grasp the caste dynamics in Bihar

Caste arithmetic is central to electoral outcomes in Bihar, and both coalitions attempted to consolidate core vote banks.

Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs), comprising roughly 112 castes and accounting for approximately 36 per cent of Bihars population, became a crucial demographic target.

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The Mahagathbandhan sought to appeal to this large voter bloc by projecting Mukesh Sahni  a leader from the Mallah community  as its proposed deputy chief minister.

The Mallah community represents around 2.6 per cent of the state population, and the alliance hoped his prominence would attract support from across EBC communities.

However, this strategy did not translate into successful results. Sahnis party contested in 12 seats but won none.

A key reason was the lack of shared identity among EBC sub-castes, many of which did not consider Sahni as representing their interests. This limited the influence of his projection as a major leader within the bloc.

In parallel, the Mahagathbandhan did not position any representative from the Muslim (around 17 per cent) or Scheduled Caste (19 per cent) communities as a potential deputy chief minister.

This decision appeared to have created dissatisfaction within these demographics, as they traditionally form significant segments of the alliances support base.

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This oversight likely contributed to the coalitions inability to generate high turnout from critical communities in several regions.

How differing election promises aided NDA

Tejashwi Yadavs flagship pledge was to provide a government job for every household, a proposal that would require nearly 26 million jobs.

While this promise was aimed at addressing a major youth concern in Bihar, the lack of an articulated implementation roadmap caused many voters to view it sceptically.

The NDA exploited this uncertainty, consistently arguing during the campaign that the pledge was unrealistic. Without a clear counter-narrative, the Mahagathbandhan struggled to neutralise this criticism.

At the same time,Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar introduced a direct-benefit scheme promising Rs.10,000 to women, a move that significantly boosted his credibility among female voters.

Bihar saw an exceptionally high turnout of women voters  approximately 71 per cent of those who voted  making this policy announcement particularly influential.

The Mahagathbandhans competing promise of Rs. 2,500 for women under the Mai Behan scheme did not generate equivalent traction, partly due to the alliances inconsistent messaging and limited visibility across its partners.

The Congress attempted to highlight concerns about what it described as vote theft and fraud through a Vote Adhikar Yatra, with Rahul Gandhi joining Tejashwi Yadav during the latters campaign in parts of Bihar.

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But, after this phase, the Congresss senior leadership largely stepped back from extensive campaigning within the state, leaving the alliance without a sustained narrative on key issues like employment, roads, public health, and education.

What the final results in Bihar say

The final results reflected the cumulative impact of organisational weaknesses, misjudged political strategies, caste dynamics, and narrative dominance.

RJD: 25 seats (highest vote share at 23 per cent)

Congress: 6 seats out of 61 contested

Left parties (CPI(ML)L, CPI(M), CPI): 3 seats combined

Mahagathbandhan total: 35 seats

BJP: 89 seats

JD(U): 85 seats

LJP (Ram Vilas): 19

HAM: 5

RLM: 4

NDA total: 202 seats

The numbers illustrate how effectively the NDA converted its collective vote share into seats, while the Mahagathbandhan, despite strong individual pockets of support, failed to achieve the consolidation needed across constituencies.

With inputs from agencies
Nathuram Godse was executed on November 15, 1949, for the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. During the trial, Godse argued that Gandhis influence and pro-Muslim stand weakened Indias unity. On this day in 1988, the chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) Yasser Arafat, proclaimed the State of Palestine in Algiers, Algeria

The trial of persons accused of participation and complicity in Mahatma Gandhi's assassination opened in the Special Court in Red Fort Delhi on May 27, 1948. Wikimedia Commons

Nathuram Vinayak Godse shot Mahatma Gandhi on January 30, 1948, after the revered leader emerged from a prayer meet in Delhis Birla House. What followed was chaos, shock and anger across the country. Godse was arrested on the site and later sentenced to death. He was executed on November 15, 1949.

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.

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On this day in 1988, Yasser Arafat, chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), proclaimed the establishment of the independent State of Palestine during a historic session of the Palestinian National Council (PNC) in Algiers, Algeria.

Here is all that took place on this day across the world.

Nathuram Godse was executed

Nathuram Vinayak Godse was executed by hanging at Ambala Jail in Punjab on November 15, 1949, for assassinating Mahatma Gandhi. He was not the only one - his co-conspirator Narayan Apte was also executed. The execution marked the end of one of the most sensational trials in Indias history and closed a dark chapter that followed the nations independence.

Godse, a former member of the Hindu nationalist organisation Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and later part of the Hindu Mahasabha, assassinated Gandhi on January 30, 1948, during a prayer meeting at Birla House in New Delhi. He fired three bullets into Gandhis chest at close range. Godse claimed he opposed Gandhis policies of nonviolence and his perceived favouritism toward Muslims after Partition.

Prayer meeting at Birla House after which Gandhi was shot by Godse. Wikimedia Commons

The trial of Godse and his accomplices began in May 1948 and lasted nearly a year. Godse admitted to the killing but defended his actions as politically motivated, arguing that Gandhis influence weakened Indias unity. Despite his justification, the court found him guilty of murder and conspiracy.

Public sentiment following the assassination was one of shock and mourning. Gandhi, revered as the Father of the Nation, had been a symbol of peace and moral strength. The government resisted appeals for clemency for Godse and Apte, citing the gravity of their crime.

On the morning of November 15, 1949, both men faced the gallows with reported calmness, expressing no remorse. Their execution drew mixed reactions  condemnation from most quarters and quiet support from fringe nationalist circles.

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Palestinian state proclaimed by Yasser Arafat

The chairman of Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), Yasser Arafat, proclaimed the State of Palestine during a historic session of the Palestinian National Council (PNC) in Algiers, Algeria on this day in 1988.

In his address, Arafat read the Declaration of Independence, which drew inspiration from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and referenced United Nations resolutions. The declaration affirmed the Palestinian peoples right to sovereignty over their homeland and designated Jerusalem as the capital of the new state. It also emphasised the principles of peace, coexistence, and adherence to international law.

Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) chairman Yasser Arafat waves as he is briefly lifted on the shoulders of Palestinian police, moments after entering the Gaza Strip at Rafah. Reuters

Although the proclamation did not establish immediate control over territory, since much of the West Bank and Gaza Strip remained under Israeli occupation, it was a significant political and symbolic move. Within weeks, over 90 countries recognised the State of Palestine, and it was later granted observer status at the United Nations.

For the first time, the PLO implicitly accepted the two-state solution by acknowledging UN Resolution 242, which called for Israels withdrawal from the occupied territories and mutual recognition. This move helped pave the way for future negotiations, including the Oslo Accords in the 1990s. While Israel and the United States rejected the proclamation, viewing it as unilateral and lacking practical authority, it resonated deeply among Palestinians and the broader Arab world.

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This Day, That Year

In 2001, Microsoft released Xbox.

American inventor King Camp Gillette was granted a US patent for the first razor with disposable blades in 1904.

With inputs from agencies
An unexpected exchange at the World Travel Market in London earlier this month has raised the question whether Pakistan is edging towards discreet diplomatic contact with Israel. A brief handshake between Pakistans tourism adviser and a senior Israeli tourism official triggered a political uproar and official denials

Pakistani prime ministers coordinator on tourism, Sardar Yasir Ilyas, meeting with the director general of Israels Ministry of Tourism Michael Izhar-Kov during the World Travel Market in London in November, 2025. Image/X-kaisos1987

When a senior figure from the Israeli Tourism Ministry was seen greeting Pakistans adviser on tourism at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London earlier this month, the brief encounter immediately raised questions about Islamabads intentions and shifting alignments, especially in the age of United States President Donald Trumps renewed West Asia strategy.

Although Israel and Pakistan have no formal diplomatic ties, Pakistan has already found itself referenced in discussions about the proposed International Stabilisation Force for Gaza, an initiative that forms a central part of Trumps ceasefire blueprint.

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How the incident unfolded

The World Travel Market  held annually in London  is a major platform where tourism ministries, national delegations, airlines and travel companies from more than 180 countries gather to promote destinations and negotiate commercial partnerships.

The 2025 edition was held from November 4 to November 6.

A video clip recorded by attendees captured the moment when Michael Izhakov, the Director General of Israels Ministry of Tourism, walked up to the Pakistani pavilion and shook hands with Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, who serves as the Adviser and National Coordinator to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on tourism-related matters.

The video revealed a cordial exchange, prompting immediate social media buzz.

Israel and Pakistan do not maintain diplomatic relations, and Pakistans legal framework explicitly bars its citizens from visiting Israel. This prohibition has long been symbolic of Pakistans stated solidarity with the Palestinian cause.

However, a handful of Pakistanis  including a group of journalists and educators  have reportedly travelled to Israel this year despite the ban.

The presence of an Israeli tourism delegation at a major global event is not unusual, yet their visit to the Pakistan pavilion and the friendly nature of the exchange stood out because no official contacts between Islamabad and Tel Aviv have ever been acknowledged publicly.

What the Pakistan tourism adviser said

After the footage gained traction online, Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan issued a formal statement explaining the circumstances and denying that he had prior knowledge of who he was meeting.

       .    WTM , "   ,  ,          ,            ,    '. , pic.twitter.com/LmzkEgj0tr  roi kais       (@kaisos1987) November 12, 2025

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The statement noted that his delegation had independently funded its travel to London and was focused on promoting Pakistans tourism sector.

According to the statement, During the event, a group of individuals from Israel visited the Pakistan Pavilion unannounced and met the Pakistani delegation without introducing themselves.

How Islamabad reacted

At the weekly briefing in Islamabad, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi addressed repeated questions from journalists about the incident.

He stressed, I can assure you that if at all such a meeting or such an interaction took place, it was without authorisation, certainly without information to us and certainly without authorisation by the government.

The spokesperson stated that the Foreign Ministry had neither approved nor been informed of any such contact.

Another major development occurred in September, when Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Daniel Rosen, the President of the American Jewish Congress, during his visit to New York.

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Rosen is considered an important figure within US-based political networks connected to Israel.

Andrabi, however, described such attempts to associate the London exchange with larger strategic shifts  including Pakistans potential inclusion in the Abraham Accords  as unjustified.

He called such conclusions too far-fetched and advised media outlets to avoid excessive conjecture.

When asked about earlier reports indicating that Pakistani individuals had allegedly visited Israel in recent months, Andrabi clarified that such travel had not been authorised and would, if confirmed, fall under passport regulation violations.

He reiterated that interactions with Israeli authorities are not sanctioned by Pakistans government.

In another response, he stated, I have not seen the report or any information on a meeting of the adviser to the prime minister or any public figure with an Israeli representative. I can assure you that if such a meeting or interaction took place, it was, certainly, without authorisation by the government.

What Pakistani politicians had to say

The circulation of the handshake video led to criticism, particularly from parties and figures with strong positions on Palestine.

Former Jamaat-i-Islami senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan expressed outrage in a widely shared post on X, stating, Shaking hands with the killers of Palestinians is a betrayal of Al-Aqsa, Gaza, and the Palestinians. The handshake, meeting, and conversation during the international exhibition in London between Sardar Yasir Ilyas, Advisor to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on Tourism, and Michael Izhar-Kov, Director General of Israels Ministry of Tourism.

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He added, The visit of the Israeli director-general of tourism to the Pakistani pavilion  this is shameful, it is rubbing salt into the wounds of Pakistanis. I condemn this in the strongest terms; the nation will not forgive the traitors of the Palestinian people.

The intensity of the backlash reflects the deeply rooted public sentiment in Pakistan towards the Palestinian cause.

Any suggestion of rapprochement with Israel often provokes sharp criticism, particularly from religious parties, civil society groups, and segments of the political opposition.

What we know about Pakistans potential role in the Gaza mission

The incident in London came amid circulating reports that Pakistan was being considered for participation in the International Stabilisation Force (ISF)  a multinational deployment envisioned as part of the US-led Gaza Peace Agreement promoted by Trump.

The proposed force would operate in Gaza after the cessation of hostilities, with responsibilities that include securing key areas, facilitating humanitarian access, and helping to rebuild and manage basic civilian administrative structures.

According to diplomats and official briefings, many of the participating countries would be Muslim-majority states.

Andrabi addressed questions about Pakistans involvement. He said Pakistan and Jordan cooperate closely on multilateral issues, including Palestine, and that discussions during the forthcoming visit of Jordans King Abdullah II would likely involve Gaza.

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However, he emphasised that Islamabad has not reached a decision. On the role of the International Stabilization Force, no decision has been taken on Pakistans participation.

He added that the UN Security Council is still negotiating the forces exact mandate, explaining, I dont think the Security Council has reached a decision. So this is an ongoing process. We are engaged in it.

Some outlets have reported that Pakistan is preparing to send around 20,000 troops to Gaza for a Western-supervised post-war mission.

These reports cite unnamed intelligence sources claiming that Pakistans Army Chief, General Asim Munir, met recently in Egypt with senior officials from Israels Mossad and the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) to discuss the potential deployment.

If such a mission were to materialise, it would represent a major shift in Pakistans historical stance toward Israel.

However, no formal confirmation has been issued by Islamabad regarding these reported meetings.

Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif previously stated that deliberations were still underway and that the matter remained unresolved and in process.

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Andrabi added that any final determination on troop deployment would require approval at the highest levels of government, including Pakistans parliament.

Why Pakistans role matters to Washington

In recent months, analysts have observed that the Trump administration has increasingly looked toward Pakistan as a key player in its efforts to reshape the strategic order in South-Central Asia.

Pakistans potential involvement in US-led plans  from Gaza stabilisation to regional energy and transport corridors  has drawn attention from India, Iran, and China, all of whom have significant interests in the region.

Pakistan has reportedly been identified as a possible partner in Washingtons broader attempt to counter Irans regional influence.

Reports claim that Pakistan offered the US the development of a port in Pasni, a location in Balochistan near the Iranian border. Such a project, if pursued, could theoretically serve as a staging point for security or economic operations shaped by US priorities in the region.

The United States has previously moved toward designating the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation, a step that could facilitate American commercial activity in Balochistan, particularly in mining.

Critics, however, caution that the introduction of US forces or contractors into Balochistan would risk triggering instability, given the BLAs origins in decades of grievances relating to political exclusion, uneven development, and resource distribution.

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Any such presence would also intersect with Chinas strategic interests in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which runs through Balochistan and includes significant infrastructure assets in Gwadar.

How Pakistan has reaffirmed its Palestine policy

Pakistan has also signed a recent joint declaration with 14 countries criticising Israeli legislative moves to assert sovereignty over the West Bank.

Islamabad denied reports suggesting that Pakistan had removed from its passports the clause stating they are valid for travel to all countries except Israel.

For now Pakistans stance vis-a-vis Israel is:

It does not recognise the State of Israel.

It supports the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders.

It upholds East Jerusalem (Al-Quds Al-Sharif) as the rightful Palestinian capital.

With inputs from agencies
Pakistans capital, Islamabad, reported its worst suicide bombing since 2008, which left 12 dead and many others injured. The blast came a day after Indias Delhi saw a deadly car explosion. What happened in Pakistan? Heres all this and more in our weekly wrap

Pakistan has delivered a blow to its democracy. The Shehbaz Sharif-led government has given sweeping powers to Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir. This comes months after he was promoted to Field Marshal in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, Indias military action against terror bases in Pakistan.

A day after Indias capital, Pakistan was also rocked by a major blast. An explosion took place outside the judicial complex housing the Islamabad district and sessions courts, killing 12 people and injuring more than 20 others.

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In the United States, the longest government shutdown has finally come to an end. After 43 days of chaos and public anger, the historic shutdown was over after a spending bill passed the US House of Representatives.

Heres all this and more in our weekly roundup from around the world.

1. Pakistans National Assembly has passed the 27th Constitutional Amendment, which has elevated Asim Munir to the countrys Chief of Defence Forces. This post gives him control of the army, navy and air force.

It has also granted Munir the rank of Field Marshal for life. The de facto ruler of Pakistan will now have legal immunity. Critics have opposed the move, with some saying it creates a parallel authority. We explain the changes 27th Amendment will bring in Pakistan.

2. This week, Islamabad was rocked by its worst suicide attack since 2008. A blast was reported right outside Islamabads District Judicial Complex. The police said a lone bomber blew himself up at the main entrance to the complex after failing to enter the premises.

A breakaway faction of the Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Jamaat-ul-Ahrar (JuA), claimed responsibility for the attack. Pakistan, without any proof, pointed fingers at India. New Delhi has strongly rejected the claims, calling the remarks baseless and unfounded. Read the story in detail here.

3. Bangladesh witnessed several incidents of violence this week. Arson attacks and crude bomb explosions were reported in Dhaka and other parts of the country ahead of a special tribunals announcement on Thursday of the verdict date in a case against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

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Leaders of Hasinas party, the Awami League, also organised Dhaka Lockdown on the day the International Crimes Tribunal-1 (ICT-1) set the verdict date in the crimes against humanity case against the former PM. Following student-led protests, Hasina was ousted from power in August last year and fled to India, where she has remained since. We take a look at the fresh onset of violence in Bangladesh.

4. The longest government shutdown in American history ended with President Donald Trump signing the spending bill passed by the US House of Representatives. The legislation provides funding to keep the US government open until January 30.

Despite this, no one is celebrating. Republicans are facing political backlash, while Democrats have failed to secure healthcare subsidies. Americans will also have to wait for the government services to resume fully. But why? Read here.

5. It is Donald Trump vs BBC. The US president has threatened Britains public broadcaster, the BBC, with a $1 billion lawsuit. Trump is miffed with the media company over its documentary that misleadingly edited the American leaders January 6, 2021 speech which made it seem that he explicitly encouraged his supporters to attack the US Capitol.

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The fallout of the controversy was that BBCs Director General Tim Davie and Chief Executive of News Deborah Turness have resigned. It is not certain whether the US presidents lawsuit against the British broadcaster would hold up in court, though. We explain.

6. Trumps relationship to the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender, is in the spotlight again. This comes after Democrats in the House of Representatives released new emails linking the duo.

A view of a statue depicting U.S. President Donald Trump and disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein holding hands, following a partial government shutdown in Washington, DC, US, October 2, 2025. File Photo/Reuters

The White House has dismissed the emails, calling them a selective leak and an attempt to smear the US president. Trump, who was once friends with Epstein, has long faced questions about his ties to the sex offender. We take a look at their complex relationship here.

7. In a world struggling to prioritise work-life balance, Japans Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has courted controversy with her focus on just work. Takaichis stringent work schedule drew attention when she arrived at her office at 3 am to prepare for her first parliamentary budget session.

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In a country notorious for its overwork culture, its PMs work, work, work, and work like workhorses mantra has not sat well. She is now facing backlash. Find out more here.

8. It sounds like a dystopian show, but it has happened in real life. A woman in Japan has said I do to an AI chatbot she built using ChatGPT.

The 32-year-old woman, identified as Kano, held a wedding ceremony earlier this summer with her AI partner, Lune Klaus. While it is not legally recognised, the woman calls it an emotional union between herself and the digital character. But how did their love story begin? How did they meet? Read here.

This is all we have for you this week. If you like how we analyse news, you can bookmark this page.
Washington has been pulled back into the long-running fallout from Jeffrey Epsteins crimes after US President Donald Trump urged the Justice Department to open a fresh inquiry into Epsteins ties with prominent Democrats, especially Bill Clinton and major financial institutions

US President Donald Trump waves as he walks to board Air Force One while departing for Florida from Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, US, November 7, 2025. File Image/Reuters

United States President Donald Trump has demanded that the Justice Department launch a fresh inquiry into the late financier Jeffrey Epsteins relationships with high-profile Democrats  chiefly former US President Bill Clinton  and financial institutions that once provided services to him.

While Trump framed his request as a push for transparency, the move has raised questions about the motivations behind it as Trumps own past association with Epstein is being put under the lens again.

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US Attorney General Pam Bondi announced on Friday that she had assigned Manhattan US Attorney Jay Clayton to oversee the new investigation.

Her decision was made public shortly after Trump used his social media accounts to call for a federal examination of Epsteins communications with Clinton, former US Treasury Secretary Larry Summers, LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, and  separately  the financial giant JPMorgan.

The announcement capped a turbulent week in which both Republicans and Democrats in Congress released large batches of Epstein-related documents, including years of email exchanges that showed interactions between Epstein and numerous political and business personalities.

The materials did not contain allegations of sexual misconduct involving the individuals named by Trump; nonetheless, the US president has insisted that the Justice Department must investigate them.

What Trumps directive says about the US justice dept

The Justice Departments decision to carry out Trumps request has been interpreted by many legal observers as another example of the erosion of the traditional separation between political authority in the White House and the operational independence of federal law enforcement.

During a press interaction on Air Force One after Bondis announcement, Trump justified his actions publicly, saying, Im the chief law enforcement officer of the country. Im allowed to do it.

Legal specialists, however, warn that such overt intervention from the Oval Office can destabilise prosecutorial processes.

Patrick J Cotter, a former federal prosecutor, highlighted the dangers, calling Trumps approach outrageously inappropriate and telling Reuters, Thats not how its supposed to work.

Concerns are heightened because judges in the United States are authorised to dismiss cases they determine to be launched for vindictive prosecution.

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Individuals previously targeted by Trumps Justice Department  including former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James  have already suggested that investigations against them were politically motivated. Courts have not yet ruled on those claims.

The Justice Department had, as recently as July, concluded that there was no basis for targeting other individuals in connection with Epsteins crimes.

A memo from that period stated that investigators found no evidence that could predicate an investigation against uncharged third parties and that the broader review revealed no incriminating client list and no credible evidence of blackmail involving prominent figures.

How Capitol Hill has erupted following latest emails release

The backdrop to Bondis announcement was a flurry of activity on Capitol Hill. Democrats on the House Oversight Committee released three email exchanges involving Epstein that contained references to Trump.

One 2019 message reportedly included the assertion that Trump knew about the girls, which Democrats interpreted as significant in light of questioning surrounding Trumps years of friendship with Epstein.

A newly released email from disgraced late financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, referencing his former companion Ghislaine Maxwell and US President Donald Trump, is seen in this handout image released by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee in Washington, DC, US, on November 12, 2025.

US Press secretary Karoline Leavitt accused Democratic lawmakers of selective disclosure and charged them with attempting to smear Trump.

Republicans on the committee countered almost immediately by releasing a much larger tranche of documents  nearly 23,000 pages of Epsteins correspondence  that contained messages linked to individuals such as Clinton, Hoffman, Summers, former Trump adviser Steve Bannon, and Britains ex-Prince Andrew (now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor), who previously settled a civil lawsuit with one of Epsteins victims.

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The House of Representatives is now preparing to vote on legislation that would compel the Justice Department to release all Epstein-related files in its possession.

The bill is expected to pass with majority support, despite earlier attempts by House Speaker Mike Johnson to prevent the vote from moving forward.

The Senate would need to pass similar legislation, and the US president would have to sign such a measure for it to become binding.

Trump appeared indifferent when asked whether the documents should be made public, saying, I dont care about it, release or not. If youre going to do it, then you have to go into Epsteins friends, before again naming Clinton and Hoffman.

He added, This is a Democrat hoax. And a couple, a few Republicans have gone along with it because theyre weak and ineffective.

Republican public opinion on Trumps handling of the issue remains fractured.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll from October showed that only four in ten Republican respondents approved of the presidents approach to the Epstein files  far lower than his overall approval rating within his party.

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How the Trump accused have reacted

While Trump and his supporters insist the investigation must examine the ties between Epstein and some of the most influential Democratic figures of the last two decades, those individuals have forcefully denied wrongdoing.

Clinton has acknowledged travelling on Epsteins aircraft multiple times in the early 2000s but has consistently rejected any suggestion of involvement in criminal activities.

A newly released email from disgraced late financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, referencing US President Donald Trump, is seen in this handout image released by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee in Washington, DC, US, on November 12, 2025.

His deputy chief of staff, Angel Urena, reiterated that position after the latest document disclosures, writing on X, These emails prove Bill Clinton did nothing and knew nothing. The rest is noise meant to distract from election losses, backfiring shutdowns, and who knows what else.

Reid Hoffman, who has been a financial backer of Democratic campaigns and philanthropies, also responded publicly.

In his own social media post, he urged the federal government to release every Epstein-related file, saying the full record would show that the calls for baseless investigations of me are nothing more than political persecution and slander.

He added, I was never a client of Epsteins and never had any engagement with him other than fundraising for MIT.

Hoffman has previously expressed regret about participating in events where Epstein was present, saying such actions contributed to restoring Epsteins status after he was registered as a sex offender.

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Larry Summers, who served in Clintons cabinet and later presided over Harvard University, has also previously described his interactions with Epstein as a regrettable mistake.

In earlier public statements, Summers said, My association with Jeffrey Epstein was a major error of judgement.

JPMorgan, the bank that handled Epsteins accounts between the late 1990s and 2013, reiterated its earlier position as well. Company spokeswoman Patricia Wexler said JPMorgan regretted its past business relationship with Epstein but stated that the bank did not help him commit his heinous acts.

She added that federal authorities had access to critical information about Epsteins activities that was not shared with JPMorgan or other financial institutions.

The bank has already paid significant settlements to victims who alleged that financial institutions failed to act on warning signs related to Epsteins behaviour.

Despite the association of these individuals and institutions with Epstein, none has been accused by any known victims of participating in sexual misconduct or trafficking.

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How Trump is trying to push the spotlight away from him

While Trumps call to investigate Democratic-linked figures has dominated the weeks headlines, the focus has simultaneously returned to the presidents own history with Epstein.

Trump and Epstein were acquaintances for years, particularly during the 1990s and early 2000s in New York and Florida social circles. Trump has said that he cut ties before Epsteins 2008 conviction.

The recent surge in documents released by congressional committees includes references to Trump, raising fresh questions about what he may have known about Epsteins activities.

Although Trump denies any knowledge of Epsteins criminal behaviour, the timing of the Justice Departments new probe has prompted his critics to accuse him of orchestrating a political diversion.

People walk next to a mobile Ad Van that displays a photograph of US President Donald Trump and disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, in protest of the visit of US President Donald Trump in Aberdeen, Scotland, UK, July 28, 2025. File Image/Reuters

Jay Clayton  a political independent who previously served as Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission during Trumps first term  became US Attorney for the Southern District of New York earlier this year.

Bondi described him as one of the most capable and trusted prosecutors in the country, and said the department would pursue the matter with urgency and integrity.

Trump also praised Clayton, calling him a great man, a great attorney, though he said Bondi was responsible for choosing him to lead the probe.

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During the 2024 campaign, Trump suggested he would push for the declassification of the federal governments Epstein files.

But his position shifted this year, with the president increasingly characterising the controversy as a politically-driven narrative promoted by Democrats.

He argued on social media that the unfolding developments were part of the Epstein Hoax, involving Democrats, not Republicans, and wrote that the situation was another Russia, Russia, Russia Scam, with all arrows pointing to the Democrats.

With inputs from agencies
J&K DGP Nalin Prabhat confirmed that the blast was triggered during the handling of explosive materials that were recovered during a raid in Faridabad earlier this week, linked to the Red Fort explosion case

Security personnel keep vigil after an accidental explosion ripped through Nowgam police station on late Friday night, in Srinagar, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. PTI

The Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police on Saturday said that the blast in Srinagars Nowgam Police Station was accidental, ruling out a terror angle to the explosion that killed nine people and injured 27 others.

J&K DGP Nalin Prabhat confirmed that the blast was triggered during the handling of explosive materials that were recovered during a raid in Faridabad earlier this week, linked to the Red Fort explosion case.

During the investigation in FIR 162 of 2025 of Police Station Nowgam, a huge quantity of explosive substances, chemicals and reagents were recovered from Faridabad on November 9 and 10, 2025," DGP Prabhat said.

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This recovery, like the rest of the recoveries which we have done, was transported and kept securely in the open area of the Police Station, Nowgam. As part of the prescribed procedure, the samples of the recovery had to be forwarded for further forensic and chemical examination. On account of the voluminous nature of the recovery, this process was going on for the past two days, which means yesterday and the day before, by the Forensic Science Laboratory team," he added.

#WATCH | Blast near Nowgam Police Station in J&K last night | Srinagar | J&K DGP Nalin Prabhat says, "During the investigation in FIR 162 of 2025 of PS Nowgam, a huge quantity of explosive substances, chemicals and regents were also recovered from Faridabad on 9th and 10th of pic.twitter.com/Xs55Nve64t  ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2025

The explosion was triggered while the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), the Tehsildar, and police personnel were handling and checking explosive materials kept inside the premises, which were earlier seized from Faridabad in connection with a white-collar terror module case.

The material, part of the 360 kilograms of explosives recovered from the rented residence of arrested doctor Muzammil Ganaie, was being sampled as part of the ongoing investigation.

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Several videos of the explosions aftermath have emerged, with one CCTV clip from a nearby house capturing the exact moment of the blast, which obliterated the police station.

The footage shows a sudden, intense flash as the explosion tore through the station, followed by flames rising into the air, visually confirming the immense force of the blast that was heard several kilometres away.
Delhi Police has detained three people, including two doctors from Haryanas Al Falah University, in connection with the blast near the Red Fort, even as two separate FIRs were registered against the institution over alleged irregularities flagged by the UGC and NAAC.

An ambulance rides past a blood spattered road at the blast site after an explosion near the Red Fort in the old quarters of Delhi on November 10, 2025. File- (Photo by Sajjad HUSSAIN / AFP)

Delhi Police has detained three people, including two doctors from Haryanas Al Falah University, in connection with the blast near the Red Fort, even as two separate FIRs were registered against the institution over alleged irregularities flagged by the UGC and NAAC, officials said on Saturday.

The detentions and fresh criminal cases come amid an escalating multi-agency probe into the Red Fort blast that claimed 13 lives and the activities of individuals linked to the university.

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The Crime Branch has lodged two FIRs under charges of cheating and forgery following regulatory violations reported by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).

More from India Turkey link emerges in Delhi blast case; accused plotted R-Day strike at Red Fort

The action was taken after both statutory bodies highlighted major irregularities in the universitys functioning.

A police team also visited the Okhla office of the university on Saturday to seek details related to those under scanner.

The police also detained two doctors  Mohammad and Mustakim  from Al-Falah University, who were known to Dr Umar Nabi, the driver of the Hyundai i20 car that exploded near the Red Fort on Monday.

The detentions were made during coordinated raids in Dhauj, Nuh and adjoining areas late Friday by the Special Cell and the NIA, officials said.

Sources said Mohammad and Mustakim were allegedly in touch with Dr Muzammil Ganaie, who has been arrested in connection with the probe into an alleged white collar terror module. Both were also close associates of Umar.

Initial questioning revealed that one of the doctors was in Delhi on the day of the blast to appear for an interview at AIIMS, they said.

Their statements are being verified to establish the extent of their association with Ganaie and their possible role in the wider conspiracy, officials added.

Another man, identified as Dinesh alias Dabbu, has also been detained for selling fertilisers without a licence.

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It has emerged that the members of the terror module had pooled around Rs 26 lakh to buy explosive substances and spent Rs 3 lakh out of it to purchase NPK fertiliser, which is commonly used to make bombs.

It is being probed whether Dinesh sold the fertiliser to the suspects and if his activities extended beyond the illegal trade, officials said.

Police teams have also questioned a tea seller in Wazirpur Industrial Area, where Umar halted for 10-15 minutes before the explosion. The seller told reporters he remembered a masked man sitting briefly at the stall.

The police asked if he had tea or stayed for long. We dont notice every customer. They showed CCTV footage, he said after being released.

Investigators have also sought visitor records from a mosque near Ramlila Maidan on Asaf Ali Road, where Umar was seen in CCTV footage hours before the blast.

The imam of the mosque in Faridabad, who is said to be close to Dr Muzammil, was also questioned by Delhi Police. Muzammil used to visit the mosque during the time when Tablighi Jamat used to come as well.

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A detailed log has been prepared of every vehicle that entered the Sunehri Masjid parking zone during the three hours when the car remained there before the explosion, police sources said. The list includes vehicle numbers, timings and ownership details.

A Delhi Police team and a bomb detection squad are stationed at the parking area and are checking all vehicles that have remained there since the blast.

Cars present at the time of the explosion are being examined first. Once cleared, they are being returned to the owners after verification.

Investigators are showing Umars photograph to drivers and vehicle owners to verify whether he met or interacted with anyone while the car was parked.

Earlier, an FIR under criminal conspiracy sections had been registered by the Delhi Police Special Cell to investigate the larger plot behind the explosion.

The initial UAPA case has since been transferred to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), officials said.

Investigators have also obtained CCTV footage from inside the Red Fort Metro station that captures the moments immediately before and after the explosion at the traffic signal outside.

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The visuals show routine commuter activity when, abruptly, the station shakes violently at the exact moment the blast occurred. Objects rattle and passengers are visibly jolted as the tremor passes through the concourse.

Some commuters are seen instinctively rushing further inside the station, seeking safety as the magnitude of the blast becomes apparent.

One more CCTV has emerged from Faridabad, where Umar is seen taking out his phone from a small bag and asking someone to put his phone on charge.

In view of the high alert, till now about 140 mosques, 1700 tenants, 40 fertiliser and seed shops, about 200 guesthouses/hotels/inns, about 100 second-hand car buyers/sellers and more than 500 people of Jammu and Kashmir have been checked, said Yashpal Singh, spokesperson of Faridabad police.

Meanwhile, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) reopened two entry gates  number two and three  of the Red Fort Metro station nearly four days after they were shut as a precautionary measure following the explosion. The gates are now open for commuters, the DMRC said in a post on X.

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The policy was formulated by an 18-member committee headed by Dr Sapna S of Christ University. It initially suggested six days leave per year, but was later upgraded to 12 leaves

Karnataka has become the first state in India to mandate one period leave per month for women between the ages of 18 and 52 in all permanent, contractual and outsourced jobs, according to a government order.

The order said, Employers have been directed to provide 12 paid leaves per year to all women employees aged 18-52 in establishments coming under Factories Act, 1948, Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1961, Plantation Workers Act, 1951, Beedi Cigar Workers (condition of employment) Act, 1966 and Motor Vehicle Workers Act, 1961.

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The policy was formulated by an 18-member committee headed by Dr Sapna S of Christ University. It initially suggested six days leave per year, but was later upgraded to 12 leaves.

The idea of menstrual leave isnt new. Several countries, including Spain, Japan, South Korea, and Indonesia, already provide it. In India, some states have also introduced limited menstrual leave; for example, Bihar and Odisha grant two days per month to government employees, while Kerala offers it to staff at universities and industrial training institutes.

Under the new mandate, women employees are required to encash the period leaves every month as they cannot be carried over to the next month. The order also specifies that women do not need to submit a medical certificate to take period leaves.

The government order issued by the Labour Department stated that menstrual leave is being provided to address health concerns, improve efficiency, and promote greater participation of women in the workforce.

The government order has highlighted that feedback was sought from several trade unions and organisations, of which 56 backed the policy. Twenty-six of those who supported the menstrual leave belonged to management-level jobs.

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The Wests backing of Asim Munir will not stop even if Pakistan gets balkanised so as to balance an emerging Indiathe Pakistani military has once again played the right cards to become their best bet

When Munir embarks on the quest to make the military more powerful than ever at the expense of the civilian leadership, the West is consciously choosing to patronise him rather than admonish him. File image

There is other bad news for the world. On Thursday, the only Muslim-majority country with nuclear weapons passed a draconian constitutional amendment bill that fundamentally alters the usual check and balance mechanism of its democracy by making the military chief the most powerful person, even above the civilian leadership. Not just this, the authority of the Supreme Court of the country has also been curtailed with the creation of a new court, the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC), in its place.

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This FCC would specifically hear cases related to interpretation of the constitution and disputes between governments, including the federal and provincial. Which means the existing Supreme Court will remain supreme only in name, as its power has been limited to hearing only ordinary civil and criminal cases. In addition to this, the new court would also become the highest appellate authority for all the other courts in the country, having the power to enforce fundamental rights, take writ petitions and give advice to the president, which was earlier the domain of the Supreme Court only.

Whats disturbing is that each of these measures is aimed at undermining the independence of the judicial system, where even the judges at the high courts would no more have a choice if they are transferred arbitrarily, as any attempt by them to resist transfers would lead to their immediate retirement. Thus a country which already has a turbulent record of independent judiciary, where a former Chief Justice, Iftikhar Muhummad Chaudhary, was persecuted by a former military chief-turned-president, Pervez Musharraf, leading to the imposition of emergency in the 2000s, is now back on the same path again, all thanks to the whims and fancies of one manAsim Munir.

This 27th amendment to the constitution has been passed with zero opposition from any quarter because opposition is a non-existent entity in todays Pakistan. It is the most sweeping change to the constitution since 1973, when Islam was declared as the state religion; in fact, one may easily call it a constitutional coup, actually, as it has completely wiped out the civilian and judiciary checks and made the military, already a dominant actor in Pakistani politics, the most powerful force in the country.

Picture this: the army chief going further will now also be the chief of defence forces, with even the navy and air force under his control. He would have the authority to appoint a Commander of the National Strategic Command by making a recommendation to the Prime Minister, thus bringing the countrys nuclear arsenal and other strategic assets effectively under him.

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Besides the army chiefs overarching control over all other military services and nuclear weapons, Asim Munir, as the field marshal, will also get lifelong immunity from legal action along with rank, privileges and a uniform for life and can be removed from the post only through a two-thirds majority in the parliament. In comparison, the civilian government can fall with a simple majority vote, and even the president and the governors dont enjoy lifelong immunity from court cases.

Thus, for all practical purposes, Asim Munir is now the most powerful person in the country, whose authority has been getting increasing international credibility these days. This year alone, Asim Munir has made multiple trips to the United States, including two solo visits in June and August, when President Donald Trump himself hosted a private lunch for him once, unprecedented for any Pakistani military chief to date. Trump also credited him for averting a nuclear war with India, which has now become one of the most unsubstantiated and oft-repeated Trumpian claims ever.

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Meanwhile, Munir has been actively working to establish himself as the leader of the entire country, as evident in him accompanying Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on high-profile international engagements such as the September visit to the US, a visit to China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in the same month and another to Azerbaijan for a bilateral meeting with President Ilham Aliyev.

Although the military is an important part of diplomacy these days, with chiefs of various services making visits to each others countries, the protocol regarding a military chief accompanying a civilian leader for bilateral visits is not very well established. None of the democracies, including India and others, observe this, thus making Pakistan an exceptional outlier.

However, what is even more troublesome is the way Munirs actions are gaining international legitimacy. This includes the United States, where Trump called him his favourite field marshal in October at the Gaza Peace Summit in Egypt, where Munir wasnt even present, at the expense of the civilian leadership, which, according to some experts, has also emboldened him to make such sweeping changes to the constitution itself.

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The most problematic aspect of a military chief getting credibility as the de facto leader of the country lies in the way Pakistan is already a dysfunctional democracy. For all the reference to Shehbaz Sharif as the democratically chosen Prime Minister, the truth is that the 2024 general elections in the country were themselves the biggest eyewash exercise fixed by the military.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)s Imran Khan, who was actually the most popular leader, was sent to jail, and the mandate which was delivered in his favour was stolen overnight to bless a PML (N) and PPP coalition to become the puppet government. The military anyway has an overwhelming dominance in Pakistan by being the largest controller of capital, including land, but the way Asim Munir used his personal animosity towards Imran Khan owing to his ouster as chief of intelligence by Khan to bring the military above any other branch of power is very tragic.

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Even as Pakistan, the fifth most populous country in the world, is falling into the deep abyss of authoritarianism under its thoroughly corrupt military, the usual suspects in the West who are quick to declare India as an illiberal democracy are not even blinking an eyelid and are instead cheering on the funeral of democracy in Pakistan. The reason is quite clearthe way India exhibited its military prowess during Operation Sindoor has rattled not only Pakistan but the West, especially the United States, as well.

Thus, when Munir embarks on the quest to make the military more powerful than ever at the expense of the civilian leadership, they are consciously choosing to patronise him rather than admonish him. This is because democracy is anyway just a tool for them to keep the potential challengers to their hegemony in place. It is useful to shame an authoritarian China, and it is useful to keep a strong but defiant government in New Delhi in check.

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Munirs adventures may send Pakistan down the spiral of anarchy. The repressed people of Pakistan in certain backward provinces may even break away one day, but the Wests backing of Munir will not stop even if Pakistan gets balkanised so as to balance an emerging India. The Pakistani military has once again played the right cards to become their best bet.

(The author is a New Delhi-based commentator on geopolitics and foreign policy. She holds a PhD from the Department of International Relations, South Asian University. She tweets @TrulyMonica. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.)
Royal families are going through a rough patch. Various controversies are plaguing those of Spain, the United Kingdom, Belgium, the Netherlands, Norway, and Denmark. The media is no longer silent, and public opinion is more critical

When French authorities accused Prince Luis Fernando de Orleans y Borbon of drug trafficking, Spains Alfonso XIII quickly pulled strings to ensure the scandal involving his cousin went as unnoticed as possible. The year was 1924, Miguel Primo de Riveras dictatorship was just beginning, and the Spanish king managed to silence the matter by pressuring the media and making his troublesome relative disappear. Stripped of his titles and condemned to exile, Luis Fernando died in Paris in 1945, impoverished and forgotten by the Spanish people. Eighty years after the princes death, the Crown no longer finds it so easy to sweep its controversies under the rug.

Juan Carlos I, grandson of Alfonso XIII, has just published his memoirs in France with the intention, in his own words, of reconciling with his past, his family, and Spain. But Reconciliation, which will arrive in Spanish bookstores in December, has only reopened old wounds. Television, newspapers, online publications, magazines, and social media streamers specializing in the monarchy have spent days dissecting the books most sensitive issues without restraint: the almost father-son bond the monarch had with Francisco Franco and his complicity with the dictatorship; his role in the February 23, 1981 coup attempt; his fortune and opaque finances; his extramarital affairs; and even his personal differences with Felipe VI and Queen Letizia.

The omerta enjoyed by Juan Carlos is a thing of the past. That pact of silence began to crack in the summer of 1992, when Spains then-prime minister Felipe Gonzalez was forced to reveal that he could not appoint a minister because the king was not in Spain. A simple phrase  the King is not here caused the first fissure in the great taboo of the Spanish transition to democracy: the end of silence about the private life of the head of state.

Amid that commotion, EL PAIS reported that the king was in Switzerland undergoing a routine check-up. Juan Carlos I had to return to Madrid to meet with Gonzalez, but he failed to quell the rumors about the true nature of his absence. In an unprecedented move, the press of the time spoke frankly about his friendship with a well-known lady of Mallorcan society and pointed to this relationship as the reason for his secret trips abroad. Twenty years later, in 2012, another unannounced trip, this time to Botswana, and another affair, with Corinna Larsen, finally shattered the great taboo that had long made the monarch an untouchable figure for the Spanish press.

In the case of Spain, there was a tacit pact of silence for many years. It was the editors of the major media outlets who told their reporters: Be careful what you write about the royal family. We dont want any problems. It was an institution that had just been restored, and we had to be careful with them, acknowledges Carmen Enriquez, who was a journalist for Spains public broadcaster TVE for 37 years, working as a royal correspondent from 1990 to 2007.

According to Enriquez, the media and social networks have played a major role in the current wave of openness. Before, there was much greater opacity; far fewer things came to light. The royal family was overprotected. Now, the media and all institutions are very attentive to what is said on social networks, and that influences them to go a little further when reporting. Its as if the light has come in, sometimes against the interests and image of the royal family, she says.

Juan Carlos I and Fidel Castro during their meeting in Guadalajara (Mexico), in 1991. Manuel H. de Leon (efe)

Jose Antonio Zarzalejos, who was director of the monarchist newspaper ABC from 1999 to 2004 and from 2005 to 2008, agrees with Enriquez. With new technologies, traditional media outlets have lost their exclusive role as intermediaries. Its a paradigm shift in information, communication, and transparency in all societies. And this seriously affects monarchies, an institution that is counter-majoritarian and, by necessity, opaque, the journalist points out. The monarchy must always maintain a liturgical distance to preserve its mystique, and this clashes with current demands for information and transparency. This clash underscores the significant difficulty that monarchies, as non-elected institutions, have in being explained within democratic contexts.

Accusations of abuse

The Spanish monarchy is not the only one to have been shaken by a book. The recent publication of Virginia Giuffres posthumous memoirs in the United Kingdom has put King Charles III in a difficult position. Giuffres revelations in Nobodys Girl, in which she accuses Prince Andrew of sexual abuse and implicates him in the trafficking ring of U.S. magnate Jeffrey Epstein, have forced the British monarch to disavow his brother, stripping him of his titles and honors, removing him from the royal family, and banishing him from the Windsor estate.

Theres a Darwinian law at play in royal houses for their survival: those who threaten the institution are removed. This was the case with the brother of Charles III. It was the case with Queen Juliana of the Netherlands when her husband, Prince Bernhard, was accused of taking bribes. It was the case with King Edward VIII. This is very old. Ferdinand VII didnt allow his father, Charles IV, to die in Spain. Alfonso XIII didnt allow his grandmother, Isabella II, to die in Spain, explains Zarzalejos. But this law, once unspoken, is now more difficult to enforce due to increased transparency. This change in standards forces a restriction on the number of members in royal families. They can no longer be very large. Felipe VI has been very astute in this regard, limiting the royal family to six members.

King Charless decision attempted to contain the damage caused by his brother, but Andrew Mountbatten-Windsors virtual exile has only raised new questions. Why is the former prince still in the line of succession to the throne? Will he go to live at Sandringham, the British monarchs private estate, as some media outlets suggest? Who will support him now? According to a recent article in The Guardian, the former Duke of York could receive an annual allowance intended to prevent him from ending up like his nephew, Prince Harry, airing his new life as a commoner in the press. The progressive newspaper indicates that this lifetime income will be paid from Charles IIIs private funds and will be several times greater than the 20,000 ($26,356) annual pension Mountbatten receives from the Royal Navy.

In 1990, Baudouin I of Belgium abdicated for 36 hours to avoid signing his countrys abortion law. The monarch, a devout Catholic, cited conscientious objection. Today, Belgians are not so forgiving of their kings whims. In October 2020, the Belgian courts recognized 52-year-old Delphine Boel as the legitimate daughter of Albert II. Overnight, the current king, Philippe, son of Albert and nephew of Baudouin, had to open the palace doors to a new sister and grant her the title of princess. Despite being a full member of the Royal House, in 2023 Boel filed a complaint with the countrys prime minister for not receiving the same treatment as her siblings, as she was excluded from official royal family events.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, former Duke of York, attends Easter church service at St. George's Chapel in Windsor, England, on April 20, 2025. Samir Hussein (Samir Hussein/WireImage)

Now, King Philippe of Belgium has to welcome another new and unexpected member into the palace. His brother, Prince Laurent, 62, has just admitted to having a secret son. The Belgian press has reported that the king will grant the title of prince to his nephew, Clement Vandenkerckhove, 25. Vandenkerckhove will also be able to claim the style of Highness, but he will not be a member of the Royal House, will not be included in the line of succession to the throne, and will not receive an official allowance.

The media no longer remains silent about the excesses of their kings and princes, and public opinion is increasingly critical of them. The luxurious private vacations of Willem-Alexander and Maxima of the Netherlands and their daughters in Mozambique and Greece are a recurring topic of debate in the country. This summer, the Dutch press criticized the eight-week break the monarchs spent outside the Netherlands. Among their favorite destinations is the island of Spetses, an exclusive enclave in the Aegean Sea where they own a house and a yacht.

Secret trips by the House of Orange are often problematic. Princess Amalia, the future queen, lived secretly in Madrid during 2023, fleeing threats from the Mocro Maffia. This powerful and feared organized crime group in Europe offered a multimillion-euro reward for the heir to the throne, although details of the case only emerged once the princess was out of danger.

The seemingly idyllic Scandinavian monarchies are not immune to scandals and public scrutiny either. Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway have been in the media spotlight for months due to the criminal behavior of Marius Borg, the son the princess had before marrying the future king. Borg, 28, faces some 30 charges for various offenses, including three alleged rape cases, abuse and assault, threats, and violation of restraining orders.

Mette-Marits son has never held an official role in the Norwegian royal family, but he was raised in the palace alongside Ingrid Alexandra and Sverre Magnus, the children the Crown Princess had with Haakon of Norway, with all the privileges that entailed. Torgeir Krokfjord and Oistein Monsen, journalists for Dagbladet, the countrys most widely read newspaper, have just published a book titled White Stripes, Black Sheep. In it, they claim that Mette-Marit may have attempted to obstruct the police investigation to protect her son.

The Norwegian Royal House has not commented on White Stripes, Black Sheep, but the books revelations and the steady trickle of information about the Marius Borg case have affected Princess Ingrid, the heir to the throne. The 21-year-old recenetly gave an interview to public broadcaster NRK in which she addressed the issue. The princess acknowledged that these are very serious matters and that it is proving difficult for her family and for everyone affected by the case. Justice will have the final say, concluded the granddaughter of King Harald and Queen Sonja. The trial against her brother is expected to begin in January 2026.

Denmark, the land of Hans Christian Andersens fairy tales, deserves its own chapter. The reign of Frederik X began in the winter of 2024 amid rumors of a marital crisis with his wife, Mary Donaldson from Australia. After photographs of the then-prince with Mexican socialite Genoveva Casanova were published in the Spanish magazine Lecturas, Queen Margrethe, the longest-reigning living monarch, abdicated in favor of her son on New Years Eve.

The unexpected and swift succession managed to quell the speculation, but the lawsuit Casanova has filed against the Spanish weekly has reignited the controversy. The Mexican, former Countess of Salvatierra and a regular fixture in the gossip pages, argues that the images violated her rights to honor and privacy. The tabloids are closely following the proceedings, awaiting further details on the story.

Crisis cabinets are already commonplace in royal households, but European monarchies are finding it increasingly difficult to brush their dirt under the plush carpets of the palace.

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Six minors were killed in Colombian military airstrikes targeting an armed group in the southern Amazon this week, the countrys ombudsman said, as President Gustavo Petro faces rising US pressure to crack down on drug trafficking.

Colombian president Gustavo Petro speaks during the General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly at the UN headquarters in New York City on September 23, 2025. Colombia's President Gustavo Petro called at the UN General Assembly Tuesday for a "criminal process" to be opened against counterpart Donald Trump for US strikes on alleged drug trafficking boats in the Caribbean. (Photo by Leonardo MUNOZ / AFP)

Six minors were killed this week during Colombian military airstrikes on an alleged drug-running armed group in the southern Amazon, the countrys ombudsmans office said on Saturday.

Iris Marin, the ombudsman, told reporters that six minors who had been victims of forced recruitment died in the operation. The strikes were ordered by President Gustavo Petro as he faces US pressure to intensify action against drug trafficking.

On Tuesday, Colombias military said it carried out airstrikes in the Amazon on November 10, killing 19 members of an ex-FARC splinter group. A defence ministry source also told AFP that nine suspected guerrilla fighters were killed in separate strikes in Arauca, near the Venezuelan border.

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The operations come as Petro steps up attacks on armed groups involved in cocaine trafficking after heavy criticism from US President Donald Trump, who has accused him of failing to curb drug production.

Local media reported that authorities are investigating whether the Amazon strike also killed Antonio Medina, a senior rebel commander linked to a violent conflict between ex-FARC factions and the ELN.

Petro, a former guerrilla, has faced growing criticism and US sanctions over what opponents call a reluctance to target cocaine-producing groups. In October, Washington imposed unprecedented sanctions on Petro, his wife, son, and a top aide, accusing them of enabling drug cartels  though it provided no evidence directly tying Petro to trafficking.

Since taking office in 2022, Petro had favoured negotiations with armed groups over direct confrontation. He cannot run for president again, but the mounting criticism threatens to hurt his political allies in next years elections.
A US memo containing declassified intelligence accuses Alibaba of aiding Chinese military cyber operations, allegations the company and China reject.

Washington has accused Chinese technology company Alibaba of quietly enabling military activity directed at US targets, according to the Financial Times, which reviewed a White House memo based on declassified top-secret intelligence. The document outlines what officials describe as a pattern in which Alibaba allegedly allowed the Peoples Liberation Army to obtain customer data, AI resources, and details of zero-day software weaknesses.

According to the memo, these capabilities are viewed by the White House as posing a direct security risk to the United States.cThe memo asserts that Alibaba provided the PLA with IP address information, WiFi details, payment data and AI-related services. It also alleges that some staff members passed on information about previously undisclosed software vulnerabilities, which US officials argue could strengthen the Chinese militarys cyber capabilities.

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Alibaba and China reject claims

Officials quoted by the FT said they were unable to verify every element of the intelligence but noted that the allegations align with wider concerns in Washington about the extent of Chinese cloud and AI companies access to sensitive information. One US official stated that the administration was working continuously to counter cyber intrusions linked to vendors it does not consider trustworthy.

Alibaba denied the accusations. The assertions and innuendos in the article are completely false, the company said, adding that it questioned the motives behind the anonymous disclosure and describing it as a malicious PR operation intended to undermine President Trumps recent trade agreement with China.

Chinas embassy in Washington also rejected the allegations. Spokesperson Liu Pengyu said the United States had reached an unwarranted conclusion without evidence and made groundless accusations against China, calling the claims irresponsible and a distortion of facts.

The White House did not comment.
In an exclusive interview with Firstpost, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina slammed the countrys current Interim Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunuss foreign policy, insisting that alienation from India is dangerous.

Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, slammed the countrys current Interim Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunuss foreign policy, insisting that alienation from India is dangerous. In an exclusive conversation with Firstpost, Hasina maintained that India continues to remain Bangladeshs oldest friend.

India, as Bangladeshs oldest friend and the largest democracy in our region, understands that elections without the participation of all major political parties cannot be considered legitimate, Hasina told Firstpost in an email interview.

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An election that excludes tens of millions of voters who support the Awami League would be a farce. India wants a reliable partner in Dhaka, not a government holding power without popular consent, she added.

On expanding ties with China & and rift with India

Hasina maintained that during her time in the office, Bangladesh has maintained a balance and a strong relationship with both India and China. However, she noted that Yunuss decision to alienate from India is dangerous.

Bangladeshs foreign policy has always been friendship to all, malice to none. During my tenure, we maintained strong relationships with both India and China. What concerns me about Yunuss approach is not engagement with China itself, but the context in which its happening, which seemingly includes a dangerous alienation from India, the former Bangladeshi PM averred.

India and Bangladesh share a 4,000-kilometre border, deep cultural ties, and critical security interests. No amount of engagement with China can replace this fundamental relationship. The current administrations foreign policy appears driven more by desperation for international recognition than by Bangladeshs genuine national interests.

In the interview, Hasina also raised concerns about attacks on Hindu communities and other minorities since August 2024. The systematic attacks on Hindu communities and other minorities since August 2024 are not random acts of violence. They are part of a deliberate campaign by extremist elements who have been emboldened and abetted by the current administration, she said.

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Under my government, we made strenuous efforts to protect all citizens regardless of their faith. Bangladesh was founded on secular, democratic principles that respected diversity. Now, religious minorities are living in fear, their temples are being attacked, their businesses destroyed, and their families threatened.

She maintained that the interim governments failure to protect minorities reflects complicity.

The interim governments failure to protect minorities isnt just negligence  its complicity. When you align yourself with extremist forces to gain power, you cannot then act surprised when those forces pursue their agenda of intolerance and violence. The international community must not remain silent while Bangladeshs Hindu population and other minorities face this persecution, she told Firstpost.
Sheikh Hasina has rejected allegations that she ordered the use of live ammunition during Bangladeshs 2024 protests, saying security forces acted amid rapidly escalating violence.

Bangladeshs ousted former prime minister Sheikh Hasina has dismissed allegations that she authorised the use of live ammunition during the 2024 protests, which rights groups and the UN say left more than 1,400 people dead, insisting that security forces were reacting to rapidly escalating violence.

In an exclusive written interview with Firstpost, Hasina was asked whether she ever approved firing on demonstrators. The claim that I directed security forces to open fire on crowds is completely false. At no time did I issue such an order, she said.

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She added that security personnel were responding to chaotic conditions on the ground. It is clear that there was needless bloodshed and that efforts to control order failed, and I certainly regret that.

But we acted in good faith, and it is neither fair nor accurate to frame this as a premeditated assault on citizens.

Hasina also challenged the widely cited death toll of 1,400. The figure of 1,400 deaths is based on undocumented estimates. It conflicts with smaller numbers released by the Ministry of Health, she noted.

Calling the events a national tragedy, she stressed the need for transparency from the interim administration. Any life lost is one too many But it is a great shame that the interim government still has not released a documented list of the dead it appears the interim government is happy instead to let this back-of-the-envelope calculation of 1,400 circulate  presumably because it believes this will damage the Awami Leagues popularity.

Hasina went on to accuse Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who heads the interim government, of attempting to perpetuate control by an unelected elite as she renewed her call for a free and fair election. She argued that India, observing the situation closely, recognises the risks of excluding the Awami League from the electoral process.

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India, as Bangladeshs oldest friend and the largest democracy in our region, understands that elections without the participation of all major political parties cannot be considered legitimate India wants a reliable partner in Dhaka, not a government holding power without popular consent, she said.

Hasina also criticised Yunuss foreign policy posture, warning that alienation from India is dangerous. She said Bangladesh must maintain strong ties with both India and China but argued that the interim government has disrupted that balance.

What concerns me about Yunuss approach is not engagement with China itself, but the context in which its happening, which seemingly includes a dangerous alienation from India, she said.

Emphasising the depth of bilateral relations, she added, India and Bangladesh share a 4,000-kilometre border, deep cultural ties, and critical security interests. No amount of engagement with China can replace this fundamental relationship.

Hasina also expressed alarm over rising attacks on minorities since August. The systematic attacks on Hindu communities and other minorities since August 2024 are not random acts of violence. They are part of a deliberate campaign by extremist elements who have been emboldened and abetted by the current administration, she said.

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Hasina said that the interim governments failure to protect religious minorities in Bangladesh is not just negligence but that the Yunus administration is complicit in perpetrating violence against Hindus

A man walks past a portrait of Sheikh Hasina, in Dhaka. It's been a year since Hasina has been ousted from power and she has been in exile. File image/AFP

Bangladesh has been witnessing numerous cases of violence against Hindus since Sheikh Hasinas exit from the country last year in August. Bangladesh has been gripped by political uncertainty, economic anxiety and deep questions about the future of its democracy.

Talking about the rampant targeted attacks against Hindus, Hasina told _Firstpost_ that these cases are not random acts of violence and are part of a deliberate campaign by extremist elements.

Living in exile at an undisclosed location in Delhi, Hasina spoke with a blend of defiance and introspection about the fall of her government, the subsequent violence, and the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus. She disputed the widely accepted portrayal of the events as a popular uprising, accused her rivals of empowering extremist groups, and warned of a targeted campaign against Bangladeshs minorities, especially Hindus, since her departure.

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Religious minorities are living in fear

Under my government, we made strenuous efforts to protect all citizens regardless of their faith. Bangladesh was founded on secular, democratic principles that respected diversity. Now, religious minorities are living in fear, their temples are being attacked, their businesses destroyed, and their families threatened, Hasina told Firstpost.

She added that the interim governments failure to protect religious minorities in Bangladesh is not just negligence but that the Yunus administration is complicit in perpetrating violence against Hindus.

Hasina further said, When you align yourself with extremist forces to gain power, you cannot then act surprised when those forces pursue their agenda of intolerance and violence. The international community must not remain silent while Bangladeshs Hindu population and other minorities face this persecution.

Violence against Hindus

Hasinas ouster from the country was followed by widespread violence, especially against the Hindu community residing in Bangladesh.

From setting their houses on fire to murdering a Hindu councillor and arresting a Hindu religious leader, Bangladesh has become a hotbed of religious persecution under the Yunus government.

Earlier this year. Bangladeshs largest minority organisation, Bangladesh Hindu Bouddho Christian Oikyo Parishad, said that the first half of 2025 saw 258 cases of communal violence.

The government has denied occurrence of communal violence by describing them as political incidents. As a result, the perpetrators of these crimes have become emboldened increasing the insecurity of the minority religious communities, the group said.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told parliament on November 7 that use of force against the self-ruled island claimed by China could warrant a military response from Tokyo

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi (left) shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of the Japan-China summit on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in Gyeongju on Friday. AFP

China has advised its citizens to avoid travelling to Japan, following a diplomatic feud sparked by comments by Tokyos new premier about a hypothetical attack on Taiwan.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told parliament on November 7 that use of force against the self-ruled island claimed by China could warrant a military response from Tokyo.

On Friday, Beijing said that it had summoned Japans ambassador, while Tokyo said it had summoned Chinas ambassador after an inappropriate and now-removed online post.

Tokyo has since said its position on Taiwan  just 100 kilometres (62 miles) from the nearest Japanese island  is unchanged.

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In an online post late Friday, Chinas embassy in Japan warned its citizens against travelling to the country.

Recently, Japanese leaders have made blatantly provocative remarks regarding Taiwan, severely damaging the atmosphere for people-to-people exchanges, the WeChat post said.

The situation presents significant risks to the personal safety and lives of Chinese citizens in Japan, it added.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan solemnly remind Chinese citizens to avoid travelling to Japan in the near future.

Beijing insists Taiwan  which Japan occupied for decades until 1945  is part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to seize control.

China and Japan are key trading partners, but historical mistrust and friction over territorial rivalries and military spending often test those ties.

Takaichi, a conservative and China hawk, has toned down her rhetoric since assuming office last month.

But just weeks into her administration, the neighbours are at odds.

Addressing parliament on November 7, Takaichi said that an armed attack on Taiwan could warrant sending troops to the island under collective self-defence.

If an emergency in Taiwan entails battleships and the use of force, then that could constitute a situation threatening the survival (of Japan), any way you slice it, she said.

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Security legislation passed in 2015 allows Japan to exercise the right to collective self-defence under certain conditions including if there was a clear danger to the countrys survival.

Strategic ambiguity

Despite the escalating diplomatic spat, Takaichi has since indicated she has no intention of retracting her statement and insisted it was consistent with Tokyos long-standing policy.

But she said she would refrain from referring to specific scenarios in the future.

Previous sitting Japanese prime ministers have avoided commenting directly on Taiwans defence, choosing instead to maintain so-called strategic ambiguity.

The United States has long been similarly deliberately ambiguous on whether it would deploy its military to defend Taiwan.

In response to Takaichis comments, the Chinese consul general in Osaka Xue Jian posted about (cutting) off that dirty neck, apparently referring to Takaichi.

Japan lodged a protest over the since-removed social media post, and Takaichis ruling party passed a resolution calling for the envoy to be declared persona non grata.

Before taking power, Takaichi, an acolyte of ex-premier Shinzo Abe, was a vocal critic of China and its military build-up in the Asia-Pacific.

Takaichi has visited Taiwan in the past and met Taipeis representative at a recent APEC summit, where she also held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

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Air China, China Southern and China Eastern all published separate statements on the policies, which will allow ticket holders to refund or change Japan itineraries free of charge for flights from Saturday through December 31

Various Chinese airlines have started offering full refunds to fliers who booked flights to Japan after Beijing asked its citizens to avoid travelling to the country on Saturday.

Air China, China Southern and China Eastern all published separate statements on the policies, which will allow ticket holders to refund or change Japan itineraries free of charge for flights from Saturday through December 31.

The development comes as a diplomatic row between China and Japan continues to simmer after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi commented on Taiwan, seen as an interference by China as it considers the island-nation part of its own territory.

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In an online post late Friday, Chinas embassy in Japan warned its citizens against travelling to the country.

Recently, Japanese leaders have made blatantly provocative remarks regarding Taiwan, severely damaging the atmosphere for people-to-people exchanges, the WeChat post said.

The situation presents significant risks to the personal safety and lives of Chinese citizens in Japan, it added.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan solemnly remind Chinese citizens to avoid travelling to Japan in the near future.

On Friday, a Chinese diplomat in Osaka sparked a furore for saying the dirty neck that sticks itself in must be cut off on X, a comment that referred to Japans supposed interference in Chinas internal matters.

The Chinese Defence Ministry spokesperson Jiang Bin said that Takaichis words were extremely irresponsible and dangerous.

Should the Japanese side fail to draw lessons from history and dare to take a risk, or even use force to interfere in the Taiwan question, it will only suffer a crushing defeat against the steel-willed Peoples Liberation Army and pay a heavy price, Jiang said in a statement.

China and Japan are key trading partners, but historical mistrust and friction over territorial rivalries and military spending often test those ties.

Takaichi, a conservative and China hawk, has toned down her rhetoric since assuming office last month.

But just weeks into her administration, the neighbours are at odds.

With inputs from agencies
A Colombian military bombing near the Venezuelan border in Arauca province has killed nine guerrilla fighters

The Colombian military earlier this week carried out airstrikes in the Amazon region that killed 19 members. (Reuters)

In a bombing near the Venezuelan border, Colombias military killed nine guerrilla fighters, a defence ministry source told AFP on Friday.

The strike took place in Arauca province and formed part of President Gustavo Petros intensified campaign against rebels involved in cocaine trafficking.

Earlier this week, senior Colombian military officials confirmed a major offensive against a drug-running guerrilla faction, reporting that airstrikes had killed 19 fighters in the countrys Amazon region. The strikes targeted a dissident ex-FARC splinter group at a time when President Gustavo Petro faces pre-election criticism and US sanctions linked to his alleged reluctance to act against armed cocaine-trafficking organisations.

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Admiral Francisco Cubides stated that the operation took place at dawn on November 10 and resulted in 19 terrorists killed, alongside one person captured and the seizure of military equipment. He added that the airstrike was launched in response to an imminent rebel attack on military targets. Petro said he ordered the bombing and military dissolution of the group commanded by the countrys most wanted rebel, known by the alias Ivan Mordisco, after peace talks collapsed. Mordisco leads the Central General Staff (EMC), a faction that refused to accept the 2016 peace agreement with the Colombian government.

Growing rebel influence and US sanctions

Experts note that the EMC has expanded its influence since the FARCs disarmament, taking advantage of remote areas through drug trafficking, extortion and illegal mining. In October, Washington imposed unprecedented sanctions on Colombias leftist president, his wife, his son and a senior aide, accusing them of enabling drug cartels. The US Treasury blacklisted Petro, First Lady Veronica Alcocer, his eldest son Nicolas and Interior Minister Armando Benedetti, imposing a travel ban to the United States and freezing any assets they hold there.
Colombia has confirmed a $4.3 billion purchase of 17 Swedish Gripen fighter jets amid rising tension with the United States.

Colombia has confirmed it will purchase Swedish warplanes in a $4.3 billion agreement with Saab, President Gustavo Petro announced as tensions with the United States persist. Although the government stated in April that it intended to buy Saab fighter aircraft, it had not disclosed the quantity or cost. Petro confirmed at a military base on Friday that the country will acquire 17 Gripen jets.

Petro said the new aircraft would help deter any aggression against Colombia, wherever it may come from, adding that in an increasingly turbulent geopolitical environment, threats could emerge from any direction.

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Regional unease and strained USColombia ties

Colombia, along with much of Latin America, remains on alert due to a US military campaign targeting alleged drug-running vessels in the Caribbean and the eastern Pacific. Petro, Colombias first leftist president, has exchanged accusations with US President Donald Trump and has claimed that the US deployment seeks to seize Venezuelas oil reserves and destabilise the region. Trump has labelled Petro an illegal drug leader, citing Colombias high cocaine production, withdrawn US financial aid and removing Colombia from Washingtons list of partners in counter-narcotics efforts.

The Republican leader has, without providing evidence, accused Petro of being involved in drug trafficking and hit the Colombian leader and his family with financial sanctions.

US and French manufacturers had also competed to supply warplanes to Colombia, but Bogota ultimately selected Saab. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, who maintains close ties with Petro, has alleged that the US military presence in the region aims to remove him from power.

(With agency inputs)
The ruling coalition in Japan is now considering plans to raise the departure tax from the current 1,000 per person to 3,000 or more to fund measures against overtourism.

Japan to increase departure to tax to tackle the issue of overtourism. Representative

The ruling coalition in Japan is now considering plans to raise the departure tax from the current 1,000 ($6.47) per person to 3,000 or more to fund measures against overtourism.

Sources close to the matter told The Japan Times that the government is planning to bring out disincentives to tackle the issue of overtourism in the country.

As per the report, the specific size of the increase will be discussed by the government at the end of the year to plan the tax system reform for the fiscal year 2026.

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The reports of the departure tax increase came a day after the ruling Liberal Democratic Partys Research Commission for the Establishment of a Tourism-Oriented Nation drafted a resolution calling for the departure tax to be tripled within the fiscal year 2026.

The commission also suggested the figure be raised to 5,000 for business-class and first-class travellers, after the necessary system updates.

Not a new law

It is pertinent to note that Japan introduced the departure tax, formally called the international tourist tax, in 2019. The tax is levied uniformly on all travellers departing from Japan, including Japanese nationals travelling abroad for work or leisure.

A higher levy could dampen the recovery of Japanese departures, which currently remain at around 60 per cent of the level before the COVID-19 pandemic. Apart from this, the government is also considering a plan to lower passport issuance fees.

What is noteworthy is that revenue from the departure tax reached a record high of about 52.5 billion in fiscal 2024, which was boosted by growing inbound tourism. The proceeds from the tax are being used to improve the environment for hosting foreign visitors in Japan.

As inbound tourism continues to grow, overtourism, such as congestion and nuisances, has become a serious problem in some tourist spots across Japan. With Japans departure tax still below international levels, a proposal to raise it has emerged within the government and the ruling parties.

Japans newly elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi instructed Tourism Minister Yasushi Kaneko earlier this month to examine whether the departure tax could be increased or not.

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Three associations mobilized to rescue and care for 16 horses that were otherwise likely to be sent to slaughter or continue working in other Spanish cities

Guitarra is 26 years old. Born in 1999, he has been taking thousands of tourists on carriage rides through the Spanish city of Malaga since 2007. He pulled one of the 25 horse-drawn carriages licensed to operate in the Andalusian capital. Since the city announced the revocation of those permits just a few weeks ago, the future of Guitarra and the other horses had been uncertain: some were to continue working in other cities, while others were destined for the slaughterhouse.

But thanks to the efforts of three associations and the support of numerous individuals, 16 of them  including Guitarra and his companions Beyonce, Piropo, Eduardo, Apache, Tana and Jaleo  have been saved, at least for now. They are now resting at the facilities of A Better Life 4 Horses, which is located on the outskirts of the town of Cartaojal, in Antequera, and run by Danish-born Signe Froslee. Some horses have come here just to enjoy retirement, but others need a lot of work because theyre traumatized, she says.

On October 6, Malaga city officials announced they were canceling the citys last 25 horse-drawn carriage licenses. Although these were due to expire in 2035, municipal authorities wanted to end the activity early to remove the carriages from the streets. We are taking this step in the interest of animal welfare and the image the city projects to the world, said Francisco de la Torre, the mayor of Malaga, from the conservative Popular Party (PP).

Horse-drawn carriages in the center of Malaga. Jorge Zapata ((EPA) EFE)

In compensation for the termination of the service, each owner received about 125,000 ($145,000) per license. The decision was broadly applauded, even by the Animalist Party Against Mistreatment of Animals (Pacma), which said in a statement: Animal protection must be a cross-cutting issue and not tied to any ideology seeking electoral opportunism at the expense of animals.

However, one question remained: what would happen to the horses? That was exactly what Signe Froslee wondered when she read the news. She tried to contact the Malaga City Council and anyone who might help answer it. Eventually, she connected with Antonio Dominguez, head of the carriage drivers. Froslee says that at first he was reluctant, but once she explained that her group wanted to buy the horses and would not reveal the owners names, he welcomed the idea.

Froslee used her own funds and help from association supporters to buy four horses. Their photos were shared on social media and quickly went viral. Meanwhile, another group, Burrito y Caballo Libre (Free Horses and Donkeys) from Mijas, was mobilizing after learning that two horses had already been sold and were set to continue pulling carriages in Seville.

Anne Blitz, president of the Burrito y Caballo Libre association, with one of the rescued horses.

The groups president, Anne Blitz, a French national, says she began posting on TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram to find sponsors and donors to buy the animals and prevent them from being forced to work again  because the situation in Seville is even worse than in Malaga, she says. Thanks to public support, they managed to purchase 12 more horses for around 18,000 ($20,000).

It was hard work, because we had to go to the stables in Malaga every day to negotiate, then arrange the transport, and keep an eye on everything, says Blitz, who worked for the European Commission for two decades and has lived in Mijas (where donkeys are used for rides) for six years since retiring. She also credits Concordia Marquez, from the association Todos los Caballos del Mundo (All the Horses in the World), who negotiated with owners to ensure that no horse was sent to the slaughterhouse.

Veterinary examinations

All the rescued horses were transferred to A Better Life 4 Horses in Antequera, which has been based since April in an old farmhouse surrounded by olive trees. The 14-hectare property, with various buildings, now houses these newcomers along with about 30 others that were rescued earlier, either privately or through actions by the Civil Guards nature protection service Seprona. Theyre going to be very well cared for there, Blitz says.

Horses rescued in Malaga, in a photo provided by the association A Better Life 4 Horses.

Each horse was examined by a veterinarian. At first glance, they seemed fine  but the exams revealed otherwise. None of them had ever seen a dentist, Froslee laments. One horse had a serious urinary infection; another was blind in one eye due to an untreated injury; some had no horseshoes; many suffered from arthritis. Guitarra, in particular, had joint problems because since 2007 he had never been able to lie down  his life alternated between carriage stops and stalls so narrow he always had to remain standing.

Some, however, arrived in good condition. There was one owner who came to see the facilities first, gave us food, showed great interest, and is very fond of the horses. In other cases, theyve caused problems; they didnt even want to hand over their horses halters for transport, even though its only worth a few euros, Froslee laments.

She notes that all the horses have now received treatment, and that some of the younger ones are traumatized and aggressive toward people, although the team will work with them to change that behavior. The only situation they havent been able to alter is that of the three horses that went from working in Malaga to continuing the same work in Huelva and Seville.

Now, the rescued horses  cared for by members of the association with the help of volunteers  face a new and varied future, always within the organizations facilities. The older ones will spend the rest of their lives resting, retired, and free from any kind of work. Meanwhile, the calmer, younger horses will become part of a program for children in vulnerable situations or with special needs, who will be able to ride them free of charge.

A worker attends to one of the horses rescued by the association A Better Life 4 Horses.

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The Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 rebel group have signed a framework agreement in Doha to try to end the deadly conflict in eastern Congo, where fighting has killed thousands and displaced hundreds of thousands this year.

Congo's President Felix Tshisekedi's high representative Sumbu Sita Mambu signs a framework agreement for a peace deal aimed at ending fighting in eastern Congo, at a ceremony with the head of the M23 rebel group delegation Benjamin Mbonimpa (not pictured), in Doha, Qatar, November 15, 2025. REUTERS/Ibraheem Abu Mustafa

The Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 rebel group signed a framework agreement on Saturday in Doha, aiming to halt the fighting in eastern Congo that has killed thousands and displaced hundreds of thousands this year, Reuters reported.

The deal is the latest in a series of documents backed by the United States and Qatar to resolve Congos decades-long conflict, which has repeatedly threatened to spill over into a regional war. US and Qatari officials called the framework an important step, but noted that much more work remains.

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US envoy Massad Boulos said the agreement contains eight protocols, but the two sides still need to finalise how to implement six of them. He also admitted there had been delays in carrying out the first two protocols  the prisoner exchange and ceasefire monitoring  which had been agreed earlier.

Yes, they were a little bit slow in the first few weeks, he said. Yes, people were expecting to see probably some immediate results on the ground, but this is a process This is not a light switch that you just switch on and off.

Meanwhile, M23  in the latest of actions backed by Rwanda  seized Goma, eastern Congos largest city, in January and has since advanced across North Kivu and South Kivu. Rwanda continues to deny any support for M23, even as the group holds more territory than ever before.

Despite months of diplomacy in Washington and Doha, violence in Congo has not stopped. Local officials reported on Friday that Islamic State-aligned militants killed as many as 28 people in eastern North Kivu.

Qatar has hosted several rounds of talks since April, mostly focused on preconditions and confidence-building steps.

In July, the parties agreed on a declaration of principles, leaving major issues unresolved, and in October they reached a deal on monitoring a future ceasefire.

Announcing Saturdays agreement, Qatars Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi said, Peace cannot be enforced by force, but is built through confidence, mutual respect and sincere commitment.

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Ford warns of an escalating national shortage of skilled tradespeople as thousands of mechanic roles remain unfilled despite offering $120,000 a year

Ford has been unable to hire for around 5,000 mechanic vacancies, despite offering $120,000 a year, prompting the companys chief executive to raise concerns about a deepening shortage of skilled tradespeople in the United States.

We are in trouble in our country. We are not talking about this enough, CEO Jim Farley said on an episode of the Office Hours: Business Edition podcast released earlier this week. He cited more than a million openings in roles such as emergency services, trucking, factory work, plumbing, electrical work and other trades. Its a very serious thing, he added.

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Concerns over training and shifting skill needs

Farley said it takes about five years to acquire the expertise needed to remove a diesel engine from a Ford Super Duty truck, yet the country is not producing enough workers with those skills. We do not have trade schools, he said. Earlier this year, Ford launched a $4 million initiative to fund scholarships for auto technicians. He noted that the US is not investing in educating a next generation of people like my grandfather, who was employee 389 at Ford and helped build the Model T.

Rich Garrity, a board member of the National Association of Manufacturers, backed Farleys assessment. I think his comment was spot on, he told The New York Post. Garrity, who is also chief business unit officer at Stratasys, said the shortage reflects not only a lack of workers but a lack of skills aligned with modern manufacturing. A lot of the openings that we see today, its not just manual of days past, but combining manual and digital skill, he said, adding that training programmes at trade schools and community colleges often lag behind the pace of technological change.

Vacancies rise as older workers retire

The issue stretches across the wider manufacturing sector. As of August, the Bureau of Labor Statistics recorded more than 400,000 open manufacturing jobs despite 4.3% unemployment. A survey last year by the Manufacturing Institute and Deloitte found that more than half of 200 firms ranked recruiting and retention as top challenges. In the automotive sector, the National Automobile Dealers Association estimates an annual shortage of around 37,000 trained technicians. The BLS projects an average of 67,800 openings for automotive service technicians and mechanics each year through 2033.

Farley expressed disbelief at the situation: A bay with a lift and tools and no one to work in itare you kidding me? Nope. The demographic shift is significant, with baby boomers retiring faster than younger generations are entering the trades.

Trade schools have shown signs of resurgence, however. Last year saw a 16% rise in trade school enrolment, the highest since the National Student Clearinghouse began tracking the data in 2018. Four-year college enrolment fell 0.6% from autumn 2020 to autumn 2023, while trade school enrolment grew 4.9% over the same period. Garrity said the change reflects evolving views on education: A more valuable path, in many cases, is getting a technical college or apprenticeship and starting to learn certain skills very early on.

Ford has introduced measures to make its roles more appealing, scrapping its lowest-wage tier and agreeing to 25% raises over four years in its latest deal with the United Auto Workers union.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas turns 90 on Saturday, still holding authoritarian power in tiny pockets of the West Bank, but marginalised and weakened by Israel, deeply unpopular among Palestinians and struggling for a say in a post-war Gaza Strip.

As Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas turns 90, he presides over shrinking pockets of authority in the West Bank while remaining largely irrelevant to the future of Gaza and increasingly disconnected from the people he claims to represent.

Once seen as the leader capable of negotiating a Palestinian state, Abbas now stands at the centre of a political dynamic where Palestinian aspirations are dimmer than at any point in the past two decades. His eroding legitimacy, Israels tightening grip, internal political paralysis and the absence of viable alternatives have collectively pushed the project of Palestinian statehood to the brink.

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A weakened presidency with diminishing public trust

Abbas, one of the worlds oldest serving leaders, has spent 20 years in office without holding elections. A drastic decline in his standing is reflected in a recent PCPSR poll showing that 80% of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza want him to resign, and only one-third support a role for the Palestinian Authority (PA) in post-war Gaza. Critics accuse him of governing through a narrow inner circle, curbing political participation, and maintaining security coordination with Israel even as settlements expand and settler violence escalates.

This loss of legitimacy is compounded by the stagnation of Palestinian statehood prospects. International bodies and legal experts have described Israels war in Gaza as amounting to genocide, a charge Israel denies while Israeli leaders push openly for annexation of parts of the West Bank. For Palestinians, this trajectory, coupled with Abbas failure to mount any effective challenge, has fuelled despair and a leadership vacuum.

How Gaza and the West Bank slipped beyond Abbas control

Abbas political decline began long before the current crisis. His authority was significantly damaged in 2007 when Hamas violently ousted the PA from Gaza, cementing a split between Gaza and the West Bank. In the years since, Abbas has retained control only over isolated areas in the West Bank, where Israeli control over land, resources, borders and movement has steadily undercut the PAs relevance.

Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has argued that Benjamin Netanyahus long-term strategy has been explicitly designed to weaken Abbas and prevent any advance towards a negotiated agreement. This has included withholding tax revenues, estimated by the PA at $3 billion and publicly questioning Abbas commitment to peace. Despite the PAs extensive security cooperation with Israel, many Palestinians view the arrangement as collaboration with an occupying force, further eroding trust.

A political vacuum that fuels Hamas support and limits future options

Years of political paralysis under Abbas have closed off avenues for democratic participation and non-violent mobilisation. Analysts argue that by suppressing political competitors and avoiding elections, Abbas has inadvertently strengthened Hamas, which presents itself as the only force doing something against Israeli occupation. Even Palestinians critical of Hamas actions see Abbas passivity as an abdication of leadership.

In this context, Israels push to prevent any PA role in Gaza after the war has left open the possibility of an international governance body dominated by Israels allies. Palestinian analysts fear this would cement political fragmentation and kill any remaining hope of reunifying Gaza and the West Bank  the minimum territorial basis for statehood.

Reform pledges met with deep scepticism

Under growing pressure, Abbas has floated reforms: promising elections after the Gaza war, creating a joint commission with France to draft a new constitution and initiating limited anti-corruption actions such as the removal of the transport minister. But a majority of Palestinians doubt he will follow through. Polls suggest that, if elections occurred, imprisoned Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti would far outpoll Abbas, with Hamas candidates also ranking well ahead of him.

Reform, analysts say, faces structural resistance from both the US and Israel, neither of which wants a fully empowered Palestinian leadership capable of challenging Israeli policy. As Ines Abdel Razak of the Palestine Institute for Public Diplomacy notes, Any effective ruler would confront the Israeli occupation.

What Abbas decline means for Palestinian statehood

Abbas shrinking authority, combined with Israels decisive control on the ground, leaves Palestinians without a coherent leadership strategy at a moment of profound crisis. U.S. President Donald Trumps proposal for an international council to run Gaza with PA participation only after unspecified reforms further sidelines Abbas. And Israel, analysts argue, is likely to continue blocking PA return to Gaza to avoid strengthening Palestinian unity and statehood claims.

As Ghassan Khatib, a former PA minister, puts it: Israel is the party that is calling the shots on the ground.

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With Abbas entering his tenth decade in declining political relevance, Palestinians face an uncertain future  fractured territory, weakened institutions, and a leadership crisis that threatens the very basis of their longstanding pursuit of statehood.

With inputs from agencies
With the United States absent from the U.N. annual international climate summit for the first time in three decades, China is stepping into the limelight as a leader in the fight against global warming.

For the first time in three decades, the United States is absent from the UNs annual climate summit, leaving China to take a leading role in global climate efforts.

At COP30 in Belem, Brazil, Chinas country pavilion is prominently placed at the entrance, while executives from major Chinese clean energy companies are presenting their strategies for a sustainable future to large audiences in English. Chinese diplomats are also working behind the scenes to facilitate productive negotiations, functions that were traditionally handled by Washington.

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Diplomacy often moves to where opportunities exist, just as water flows to open spaces, said Francesco La Camera, director general of the International Renewable Energy Agency, highlighting Chinas growing influence in climate talks, bolstered by its dominance in renewable energy and electric vehicles.

Chinas rise from a quiet participant to a central actor at UN climate conferences reflects a broader shift since U.S. President Donald Trump returned to office. Known for his scepticism on climate change, Trump has again pulled the United States, historically the worlds largest emitterout of the Paris Agreement and, for the first time, did not send a senior delegation to represent U.S. interests at the summit.

President Trump will not jeopardize our economic and national security to pursue vague climate goals that are harming other countries, White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers told Reuters.

Critics warn that the US absence could weaken its influence in global climate negotiations, particularly as China, now the worlds largest greenhouse gas emitter, rapidly expands its renewable energy and electric vehicle industries.

China gets it, said California Governor Gavin Newsom during a visit to the conference earlier this week. America is toast competitively, if we dont wake up to what the hell theyre doing in this space, on supply chains, how theyre dominating manufacturing, how theyre flooding the zone.

Chinas COP30 pavilion shows clean energy might

Unlike previous years, when China had a modest pavilion hosting mostly technical and academic panels, its COP30 pavilion occupies prime space near the entrance next to host country Brazil. Cups of sustainable Chinese single-origin coffee, panda toys, and branded merchandise attract passers-by, who can watch presentations by Chinese officials and executives from the worlds largest renewable energy companies.

Lets honor the legacy and fulfill the Paris [Agreement] vision guided by the vision of shared future, said Meng Xiangfeng, vice president of CATL, the worlds largest battery maker, on Thursday. Lets advance climate cooperation and build a clean, beautiful world together.

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CATL, which supplies roughly one-third of batteries for EV makers including Tesla, Ford, and Volkswagen, was hosting an event at a COP for the first time, aiming to reach governments and NGOs. Earlier that afternoon, Chinas vice minister of ecology, Li Gao, told a packed audience that Chinas status as the worlds leading renewable energy producer brings benefits to countries, particularly in the Global South.

Other major Chinese companies present included State Grid, the worlds largest electric utility, and solar giants Trina and Longi. Chinese EV giant BYD introduced plug-in hybrid vehicles compatible with biofuel produced at its Bahia, Brazil, plant for use during COP30. Both COP President Andre Correa do Lago and COP30 CEO Ana de Toni praised Chinas leadership in clean energy technology.

China has shown leadership not only by carrying out its own energy revolution, but with Chinas scale capacity, we can now also buy low-carbon at competitive prices, de Toni told Reuters. China is very determined not only to continue to be a very stable leader in the Paris Agreement, strengthening climate governance, but also to take very practical actions to support other countries.

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Chinas strategic role in negotiations

Behind the visible exhibitions, China is playing a subtler role in COP30 negotiations, filling a void left by the United States, which previously rallied governments toward agreement, according to diplomats involved in the talks.

Little by little, China is acting as a guarantor of the climate regime, said one senior diplomat from an emerging economy. They invested a lot in the green economy. If theres any kind of involution, they will lose.

A Brazilian diplomat noted that China helped secure agreement over the COP30 agenda even before negotiations began, a contrast to previous years, when its diplomats intervened only on issues directly affecting national interests.

Sue Biniaz, who served as U.S. deputy climate envoy under John Kerry, said China has the capacity to unite the diverse interests of the developing world, from major BRICS economies to smaller developing nations. She highlighted Chinas pragmatic approach, taking tough positions but ensuring no outcome is blocked by deadlock.

Technology as a form of political leadership

Some experts, however, remain cautious about labeling China a true climate leader beyond its pavilion displays. Biniaz pointed out that more ambitious emission reduction targets could have signaled stronger leadership. China announced in September that it will cut emissions at least 7% from peak levels by 2035.

Li Shuo, head of the China Climate Hub at the Asia Society Policy Institute, countered that Chinas technological capabilities themselves are a form of leadership. The most powerful country isnt the one with the loudest microphone at COP, he said, but the one actually producing and investing in low-carbon technologies.

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Through a combination of high-profile pavilion displays, corporate participation, and behind-the-scenes diplomacy, China is positioning itself as a key player in global climate governance, blending soft power, industrial might, and technology-driven influence to shape the COP30 agenda.

With inputs from agencies
In an exclusive conversation with Firstpost, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, responds to allegations of excessive force during the 2024 protests, whether she intends to return to contest the next election, and why she believes in India-Bangladesh ties

Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina shares her take on what went down 15 months after she was ousted.

In the fifteen months since the dramatic upheaval of August 2024, Bangladesh has been gripped by political uncertainty, economic anxiety and deep questions about the future of its democracy. The national election is delayed. The interim government headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus as the chief adviser has breached the legally bound timeline of six months to held a fresh parliamentary election, which is likely to be held early next year.

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At the centre of the turmoil that Bangladesh is still grappling to come to terms with stands Sheikh Hasina  four-time prime minister, long-time face of the Awami League, and now a leader in exile who insists she never resigned, never ceded power, and was effectively forced out by what she calls an unelected seizure of power.

Living in exile at an undisclosed location in Delhi, Hasina speaks with a mixture of defiance and reflection about the events that toppled her government, the violence that followed, and the interim administration headed by Yunus. She rejects the dominant narrative of a popular uprising, accuses her opponents of enabling extremist forces, and warns of a systematic assault on Bangladeshs minorities  particularly Hindus  since her departure.

In this wide-ranging interview with Firstpost, Hasina responds to allegations of excessive force during the 2024 protests, whether she intends to return to contest the next election, and why she believes India  Bangladeshs most important relationship  must refuse to legitimise any polls that exclude the Awami League. She also explains why she views the new  July Charter as an attempt to rewrite the nations founding history and undermine the principles her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, laid down at independence.

At a moment when Bangladesh stands at a geopolitical crossroads, navigating bilateral tensions with India and a resurgent Chinese presence, Hasina offers her sharpest critique yet of the interim government  and a warning about what she believes is at stake for the region.

Excerpts from the email interview with Sheikh Hasina:

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Q You say that you never resigned - and that no letter was ever submitted to the President during the unrest of August 2024. So, did someone force you to leave office?

Hasina: I did not write, sign or submit a letter of resignation to the President. What occurred in August was not a constitutional transfer of power but rather an unelected seizure of power. By early August, the security environment had drastically deteriorated to the point that credible threats were being made against my life. I was advised by those around me to leave for my safety and that of those protecting me.

Leaving was a choice between submitting to the demands of extremist forces or removing myself from immediate jeopardy and protecting my people from further bloodshed. I chose to leave temporarily to prevent further escalation and loss of life. My departure was a matter of survival, not abdication.

Q Would you call August 2024 a coup, or a popular uprising you misread?

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Hasina: What began as student protests with genuine economic and social grievances was hijacked by extremist factions and those seeking to dismantle Bangladeshs democratic foundations. The explosion of violence, the decision to ban the countrys most popular political party, and the immediate concentration of power within a small cadre around Yunus show this was never about democratic reform. This was far more a coup than a popular uprising. If it were genuinely a popular movement, why has Yunus refused to test his mandate through free and fair elections?

Q Rights group and the UN claim over 1,400 people died during the protests. Did you ever authorise live ammunition to disperse demonstrators?

Hasina: The claim that I directed security forces to open fire on crowds is completely false. At no time did I issue such an order. Security personnel on the ground were responding to rapidly changing and violent circumstances. It is clear that there was needless bloodshed and that efforts to control order failed, and I certainly regret that. But we acted in good faith, and it is neither fair nor accurate to frame this as a premeditated assault on citizens.

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The figure of 1,400 deaths is based on undocumented estimates. It conflicts with smaller numbers released by the Ministry of Health.

Any life lost is one too many, and this was a national tragedy. But it is a great shame that the interim government still has not released a documented list of the dead. Doing so might give Bangladeshis the clarity they need. But it appears the interim government is happy instead to let this back-of-the-envelope calculation of 1,400 circulate  presumably because it believes this will damage the Awami Leagues popularity.

Q You have claimed the interim government is intent on clinging to power at all costs. Do you believe Yunus intends to stay beyond the February 2026 polls?

Hasina: Action, or rather inaction, speaks louder than words when it comes to Dr Yunus. No Bangladeshi has ever had the chance to cast a vote for him. Fifteen months after coming to power, supposedly on a tide of popular feeling, Yunus still has not given Bangladeshs people a say in who rules them.

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On the contrary, he has repeatedly delayed elections, banned the Awami League from contesting them, and created a charter designed to perpetuate control by an unelected elite.

I cant tell whether Yunus plans to stay on personally. Hes not in control of his brief and clearly doesnt enjoy the chaos. He may aspire to return to his previous life of comfort in California. However, the extremists who prop him up certainly have no intention of relinquishing control.

Q You have said you ardently wish to contest the next polls. Will you return to Bangladesh to lead that campaign yourself?

Hasina: This is not about me but about ensuring Bangladesh holds genuinely free, fair and inclusive elections. For that to happen, the Awami League must be allowed to participate.

If the Awami League is reinstated, if political prisoners are released, if minority rights are protected, and if a fair process can be guaranteed, then I would consider returning in support of our democratic movement. But my physical presence is less important than ensuring millions of Bangladeshis have the right to vote for the party of their choice.

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Q You have warned that extremists have found encouragement under Yunus. Do you believe they are targeting the Hindus in Bangladesh?

Hasina: The systematic attacks on Hindu communities and other minorities since August 2024 are not random acts of violence. They are part of a deliberate campaign by extremist elements who have been emboldened and abetted by the current administration.

Under my government, we made strenuous efforts to protect all citizens regardless of their faith. Bangladesh was founded on secular, democratic principles that respected diversity. Now, religious minorities are living in fear, their temples are being attacked, their businesses destroyed, and their families threatened.

The interim governments failure to protect minorities isnt just negligence  its complicity. When you align yourself with extremist forces to gain power, you cannot then act surprised when those forces pursue their agenda of intolerance and violence. The international community must not remain silent while Bangladeshs Hindu population and other minorities face this persecution.

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Q You have said Bangladeshs most important relationship will always be with India. Do you believe India should formally recognise the result of the next election & the new government in Dhaka if the Awami League remains banned?

Hasina: India, as Bangladeshs oldest friend and the largest democracy in our region, understands that elections without the participation of all major political parties cannot be considered legitimate. An election that excludes tens of millions of voters who support the Awami League would be a farce. India wants a reliable partner in Dhaka not a government holding power without popular consent.

Q Under Yunus, Bangladesh is expanding its ties with China. Will this development impact your countrys ties with India?

Hasina: Bangladeshs foreign policy has always been friendship to all, malice to none. During my tenure, we maintained strong relationships with both India and China. What concerns me about Yunuss approach is not engagement with China itself, but the context in which its happening, which seemingly includes a dangerous alienation from India.

India and Bangladesh share a 4,000-kilometre border, deep cultural ties, and critical security interests. No amount of engagement with China can replace this fundamental relationship. The current administrations foreign policy appears driven more by desperation for international recognition than by Bangladeshs genuine national interests.

Q You have said the new July Charter distorts history and undermines your fathers legacy. What, in your view, is being erased - Sheikh Mujiburs role or your own lineages hold on power?

Hasina: This isnt about my familys political position  its about the erasure of the founding principles upon which Bangladesh was built. The July Charter attempts to rewrite history by diminishing the Liberation War, our struggle for independence, and the secular, democratic vision my father articulated for our nation. The Awami League represents a political tradition and a democratic, secular mindset that existed for decades even before my father led our independence struggle. Yunus, or the radicals who prop him up, want to erase that way of thinking.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has indicated that India is open to resuming free trade agreement (FTA) talks with Canada, saying that all possibilities are on the table as both countries explore ways to strengthen economic and strategic ties.

Amid a gradual thaw in ties following tensions over the Nijjar case, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said that all possibilities are on the table regarding the resumption of free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations with Canada.

Goyal said he has already held two rounds of discussions with Canadas Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, Maninder Sidhu, as both countries look to deepen bilateral cooperation and strengthen their strategic partnership.

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Goyal said, All possibilities are on the table. We have now had two rounds of discussions. We met in Delhi for the high-level ministerial meeting. We met briefly (later) to also discuss the way forward to strengthen our bilateral cooperation and strategic partnership.

He added that the CII Partnership Summit 2025 in Visakhapatnam saw participation from ministers across continents, reflecting Indias growing global engagement.

Im grateful to many ministers from across the world who joined us today. Almost every continent was represented. We had ministers from North America and Latin America. We had ministers from Europe and Africa. We had a minister from Southeast Asia. So effectively, the entire globe was represented at this partnership summit, demonstrating India as a friend of humanity. The world is one family, is Prime Minister Narendra Modis mantra, which we have inherited from generations and centuries and are proud of, and we are taking it forward in our international engagements, Goyal said.

India and Canada reaffirmed their commitment to boosting economic ties as Goyal and Sidhu convened the 7th Ministerial Dialogue on Trade and Investment (MDTI) in New Delhi.

Sidhus visit to India from November 1114 followed directions from both Prime Ministers to enhance collaboration, following their discussions on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada.

The meeting also built on the joint statement issued by the Foreign Ministers on October 13, which emphasised trade as the cornerstone of India-Canada relations.

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Both ministers welcomed the strong rise in bilateral trade, which reached USD 23.66 billion in 2024, including USD 8.98 billion in merchandise tradea 10 per cent increase from last year. They also highlighted growing two-way investments, driven by major Canadian institutional investments in India and an expanding presence of Indian companies in Canada, supporting thousands of jobs in both economies.
India urged the UN Security Council to make its working methods more transparent, raising concerns over the opaque process used to reject requests for designating individuals and entities.

India on Friday (November 14, 2025) pressed the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to adopt greater transparency in its working methods, criticising the opaque manner in which requests to designate individuals and entities are rejected.

At the UNSC open debate on working methods, Indias Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, stressed the need for clarity and accountability.

As a UN organ whose sphere of functions covers a range of areas, but membership is limited to only 15 members, working methods of the Security Council are critical to its credibility, efficacy, efficiency, and transparency. This gains particular salience in a world beset with multiple crises and facing numerous challenges, he said.

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Highlighting concerns around listing decisions, Harish noted, A case in point is the manner in which listing requests are rejected. Unlike de-listing decisions, these are done in a rather obscure manner, with member states that are not on the Council not being privy to details.

He also flagged issues concerning the leadership of Council committees. Chairs and pen-holderships of the Councils committees and subsidiary organs are privileges that come with major responsibilities, he said. Harish added that discussions on distributing these roles must ensure that members with vested interests are not granted such positions, stressing that obvious and outright conflicts of interest can have no place in the Council.

Calling for reform of the eight-decade-old Council, Harish said the focus should be on redesigning the UNSC so it is fit-for-purpose, equipped to meet the ongoing and future challenges and discharge its functions purposefully. He reaffirmed Indias push for expanding both permanent and non-permanent membership to give under-represented regions their due voice through text-based negotiations in a time-bound manner.

Harish also urged stronger coordination with other UN organs, saying the annual Security Council report discussed in the General Assembly must not become a mere procedural exercise and should go beyond simply recording meetings and deliberations.

On peacekeeping, he stressed that as the largest cumulative troop contributor, India expects the inputs of Troop and Police Contributing Countries to be integrated into mandate implementation.

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He warned that mandates that have outlived their purpose must not be extended for the narrow political interests of certain states, noting that such continuations drain resources in a constrained environment.

Harish further called on the Council to adopt measures under the UN80 framework to improve efficiency, including introducing sunset clauses for outdated mandates.
Dozens of Indigenous protesters blocked the entrance to the UN climate summit in Brazil on Friday to spotlight their struggle in the Amazon, prompting high-level interventions to defuse the situation.

Brazil's Minister of Environment Marina Silva (C-L), COP30 President Andre Correa do Lago (C) and Brazil's Minister of Indigenous Peoples Sonia Guajajara (C-R), meet with Pataxo, Munduruku and other Indigenous groups of the Tapajos region, during the COP30 UN Climate Change Conference, in Belem, Para State, Brazil, on November 14, 2025. AFP

Dozens of Indigenous protesters blocked the entrance to the UN climate summit in Brazil on Friday to spotlight their struggle in the Amazon, prompting high-level interventions to defuse the situation.

The protest lasted around two hours but intensified concerns over security at COP30 after a demonstration on Tuesday in which Indigenous activists stormed the conference venue.

On Friday, around 60 men and women in tribal garb and headdresses, some carrying babies, formed a human barricade at the main summit entrance as tens of thousands of delegates were arriving.

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Dozens of armed soldiers and military police were guarding the venue entrance, but the United Nations said in a message to attendees that there was no danger.

Beneath a blazing sun, the group demanded a meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and stood their ground as diplomats were ushered through side doors into the venue.

Come on, Lula, show yourself! shouted Alessandra Korap, an Indigenous leader.

We want to be heard, we also want to participate in the negotiations, she added. We have too many problems.

COP30 president Andre Correa do Lago skipped a morning event to meet with the group, accepting the hand of one protester and at another point, holding a baby in a feathered headpiece.

The demonstrators had strong and very legitimate concerns, said Correa do Lago after the consultations in a nearby hall where Indigenous people of all ages sang, danced and chanted.

We had a very positive, very constructive dialogue, he said.

Never heard

After a second intervention that lasted many hours, Correa do Lago said: You can be sure that this government will defend you at COP30 and he denied there was any threat to their rights.

The protesters, from the Munduruku community, are seeking to advance the process of demarcating their traditional homelands.

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They also contest the so-called Ferrograo project, a nearly 1,000 kilometer (620 mile) railway intended to cross Brazil from west to east to transport grain.

Fighting for our territories is fighting for our lives, read a banner held by one Munduruku demonstrator.

Lula is a self-proclaimed ally of the Indigenous cause.

He has advanced recognition of tribal groups, cut deforestation in the Amazon and appointed a widely respected figure to head the first-ever Ministry of Indigenous Peoples.

But many deplore the slow pace of demarcating Indigenous lands and oil exploration launched in October near the mouth of the Amazon.

On Wednesday, the iconic Indigenous chief Raoni said he would make an appointment with Lula over the oil project and Ferrograo and if necessary, Ill give him a good talking-to.

After about two hours, the thousands of attendees waiting outside in the sun were able to get into the venue through the main gate.

Brazil on Thursday defended security at COP30 after concerns were raised earlier this week over the previous demonstration.

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On Tuesday evening, Indigenous protesters and their supporters stormed the negotiation venue and clashed with guards in scenes rarely witnessed at a UN climate conference.

When asked by AFP on Thursday about the possible need for additional security measures in Belem, Correa do Lago replied: No need, it was really a minor incident.
A landslide after heavy rains in Central Java killed 11 people, Indonesias disaster management agency said on Saturday, adding that rescuers were searching for a dozen who are still missing.

A landslide triggered by heavy rainfall in Central Java has left 11 people dead, Indonesias disaster management agency said on Saturday, as search teams continued looking for another dozen residents still unaccounted for.

The incident occurred on Thursday in Cilacap city, where the collapse of a hillside buried around a dozen homes in Cibeunying village. Antara earlier reported that the depth of the debris, estimated at 3 to 8 metres (1025 feet) was making rescue efforts difficult.

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Eleven victims have been recovered so far  three yesterday and eight more today. Twelve individuals remain missing, agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari told Reuters.

Indonesias wet season, which began in September and will run through April, brings an elevated threat of floods and intense rainfall, according to the national weather agency.

In January, another rain-induced landslide in Pekalongan, also in Central Java, claimed at least 25 lives.

With inputs from agencies
Japan has protested Chinas latest travel advisory telling Chinese citizens to avoid visiting the country, issued after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis recent remarks on Taiwan.

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi (left) shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of the Japan-China summit on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in Gyeongju on Friday. AFP

Japan has formally objected to Chinas latest travel advisory urging Chinese citizens to avoid visiting Japan, the Associated Press (AP) reported on Saturday. The warning came after comments by Japans new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, about Taiwan.

According to AP, Tokyo lodged a diplomatic protest. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara called on Beijing to take appropriate measures, as reported by Kyodo News.

China issued the advisory on Friday, telling its citizens not to travel to Japan in the near future. It cited earlier incidents involving Chinese nationals and accused Takaichi of making erroneous remarks about Taiwan that had damaged the atmosphere for bilateral exchanges.

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Kihara stressed that, despite differences, multilayered communication between the two governments remained essential, Kyodo said.

China has issued several cautionary notices for travellers heading to Japan over the past year, but AP noted that the latest warning appeared noticeably tougher, including in statements posted by the Chinese embassy in Tokyo.

Japan remains a key destination for Chinese tourists, an important source of revenue for the travel industry. After the advisory, multiple Chinese airlines offered penalty-free refunds for flights to Japan.

The dispute underscores rising tensions as Takaichi begins her tenure. She has pushed for a stronger Japanese military in response to Chinas expanding regional activity.

Takaichi, who took office last month, told parliament that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could be an existential threat to Japan and might require Japans military to use force. China reacted sharply, including through a social media post by its consul general in Osaka, who wrote that China had no choice but to cut off that dirty neck that has been lunged at us. The post was later removed, AP reported.

China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has increased military pressure around the island. Japan and the United States do not have formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but the US is its main defence supplier and opposes any attempt at reunification by force. Japan, a close US ally, hosts several American military bases, including a major naval installation south of Tokyo.

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The womans cries echo down the hallway, shattering the usual silence of a courtroom. Her four-year-old daughter joins in, beginning to cry in her fathers arms as the family is surrounded by half a dozen masked agents. The only other sounds are the whispers of volunteers, who are quickly trying to identify the family about to be detained, and the cameras of journalists witnessing the scene. Its impossible to hear what the immigration officials are saying to the Venezuelan couple, as they are cornered. In a matter of seconds, the family is escorted toward a staircase and, for hours, will remain missing somewhere in 26 Federal Plaza in New York City: Donald Trumps immigration hell.

This 41-storey federal building, officially named the Jacob K. Javits Building but known simply by its address, has become the epicenter of the Trump administrations immigration offensive in the nations most populous city, home to 8.5 million people, three million of whom are immigrants. The Lower Manhattan skyscraper houses both the main offices of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the city, on the fifth and ninth floors, and several immigration courts spread across the 12th and 14th floors. Every week, hundreds of migrants, most of them asylum seekers, arrive here for appointments or hearings that until recently were routine but have now become ambushes.

On floors 12 and 14, amid hallways with stained white walls and under fluorescent lights that, in the absence of windows, trick the mind and obliterate the sense of time, federal agents patrol daily. Some are in plainclothes, others wear bulletproof vests and are identified as ICE or Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers. They are armed and almost all have their faces covered, with ski masks that only reveal their eyes.

Among them is one who struts around the building at ease. Hes tall, burly, looks down his nose at everyone, and its clear hes in charge. A migrant couple leaves their hearing, and the officer stands behind them. The couple is startled, but the agent only wanted to scare them. See you later, he says to them in Spanish. And he turns away with a smile thats visible even beneath his balaclava.

In general, officers position themselves at the doors of the courtrooms and near the elevators migrants use to arrive and then leave after their appointments. Like hunters stalking their prey, they wait, observe and strike. Once they identify their target, they go for it.

There have been dozens of videos circulating on social media or in the local press showing the brutal arrests taking place inside this building: officers violently throwing themselves at individuals to pin them against the wall, families forcibly separated, officers pushing to the ground anyone who gets in their way, whether they are members of the press or distraught family members, and even elected officials ending up in handcuffs for intervening in the arrests, as was the case with Comptroller Brad Lander, the citys finance director.

A Venezuelan family being questioned by federal agents inside the Federal Plaza building. KLAUS GALIANO

These scenes contrast sharply with those seen in other cities, such as Los Angeles and Chicago, where President Trumps mass deportation campaign has been implemented through large-scale raids and immigration operations. In New York, one of the few raids occurred on October 23, when agents descended on busy Canal Street, a hub for street vendors, and arrested about 10 people. And while arrests have taken place in and around immigration courts in other cities  after the Republican administration repealed the long-standing rule prohibiting arrests in courthouses, which were considered sensitive locations  the Federal Plaza case stands out due to the sheer volume of arrests. As of the end of July, half of the 3,300 migrants arrested by ICE in New York City since Trumps inauguration were detained at Federal Plaza, according to figures from the Deportation Data Project, an initiative that collects and publishes government data. About three-quarters of them had no criminal record.

Its nearly impossible to predict who agents will arrest. Benjamin Remy, an attorney with the New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG), who spends several days a week working with migrants at Federal Plaza, explains that until recently, ICE primarily arrested people whose cases had been dismissed. Then we saw them start arresting people who had been in the United States for less than two years, and then anyone who had applied for asylum. Now, its still unclear what criteria ICE is using, and were basically operating under the assumption that anyone who isnt a U.S. citizen is at risk of being detained, he says.

Until two weeks ago, those arrested were always individuals. However, agents have begun detaining entire families, according to volunteers who visit the building daily to observe the court proceedings and the lawyers who accompany the migrants. On October 30, the family from Venezuela was at least the third to be detained inside Federal Plaza.

We have to cover all the exits!

The abduction sparked hours of chaos as volunteers searched for the Venezuelan couple and their four-year-old daughter. The Federal Plaza building does not have a facility for holding families. ICE has holding cells on the tenth floor, but they are not equipped for families or children. In recent months, these cells have become increasingly overcrowded as migrants are now held there for days instead of the hours they used to spend while being processed. The space has been criticized for overcrowding and unsanitary conditions, and a federal judge issued an order in September requiring that basic sanitation measures be ensured at the facility.

Aware of this, immediately after immigration agents took the family up the stairs to the 12th floor, the volunteers rushed to the elevators to go down to the buildings lobby. We have to cover all the exits! they shouted. They thought there were only two possibilities: that the agents would take the family out through one of the four exits on the first floor, or that they would take them through the basement, somewhere the volunteers cant access.

However, there was no sign of the family in the lobby. Nor on the ninth floor, at the ICE office, where the volunteers went in search of answers. For hours, no one knew what had happened to the family that EL PAIS had witnessed being detained. Its a missing family, said Father Fabian Arias, incredulous, a man who has spent 20 years going to New York immigration courts to accompany asylum seekers.

Father Fabian Arias comforts an Ecuadorian migrant woman after her hearing at Federal Plaza. KLAUS GALIANO Journalist Vural Elibol is treated by paramedics after being knocked to the ground, along with other journalists, by federal agents on October 1. KLAUS GALIANO Sometimes, agents wait for people to enter the elevator to try to detain them, thus avoiding the presence of the press. KLAUS GALIANO Facade of 26 Federal Plaza, in Lower Manhattan. Klaus Galiano

After pressure from lawyers from the migrant advocacy organization Make the Road and the offices of several New York members of Congress, the agents released the mother and child on Thursday afternoon.

More than a week later, the father remains in ICE custody and has been transferred to a detention center in the neighboring state of New Jersey, while the mother now wears a GPS ankle monitor so authorities can track her, and the four-year-old girl is devastated. The whole experience and being separated from her dad was, and continues to be, very traumatic for the child. Even when she sees the police drive by on the street, she gets upset. She asks if the police will bring her father back, says Paige Austin, an attorney with Make the Road, which is handling the fathers case pro bono.

The family, whom this newspaper is not identifying at the request of their lawyers, was at Federal Plaza that Thursday for their first hearing in their asylum case. Minutes before being detained, the judge had scheduled their next appointment for next year. Austin maintains that neither of the parents has criminal convictions that could have been used as a reason for their detention: We dont believe there is anything in their history that justified the actions that were taken.

Families torn apart

On September 8, Diana Rua and Jesus Antonio Murcia, a Colombian couple married for a decade, traveled from Queens to Federal Plaza. On the cusp of autumn, they lined up that chilly morning, entered the building, took the elevator, and went straight up to the 12th floor, where the hooded ones, as Rua, 40, calls them, are located.

As she left her court appearance, Rua saw them pointing at her husband. I told him, Honey, go, get out of here. That day, they took several women and children into custody, and they also arrested her 58-year-old husband. They handcuffed him, they took his ring and watch themselves, and they handed me his wallet. To this day, ICE has not returned Murcias wedding ring to her.

Rua left the building alone, wearing an electronic monitor on her right ankle, which she is forced to bathe and sleep with, and which has caused sores and back pain. They dont have to put this on me, Im not going to escape, she says. Where to? Theyve already taken my heart, my life. Her husband, Murcia, was deported last month.

Diana Rua, a Colombian migrant living in New York. KLAUS GALIANO

The couple arrived in the U.S. across the border in August 2024, along with their 15-year-old son. They fled, Rua says, the violence in Comuna 13 of Medellin. They settled in Queens, in a $1,700 apartment that Rua can no longer afford, worked cleaning houses, and built a life that was short-lived. Five months ago, their son couldnt take it anymore. The fear of being detained by ICE became a nightmare. He stopped eating and sleeping. He also refused to go to school. He didnt want to be locked up in an immigration center and he couldnt bear it. The young man left on his own for Colombia.

I came to the United States and encountered something I didnt expect. I feel persecuted here, just as if I were in my own country, Rua says. Now she is awaiting another hearing with the judge, also at Federal Plaza, the place she doesnt want to return to.

Its a fear thats spreading among the citys immigrant communities. From the courts to the streets, immigrants are absolutely terrified, says attorney Remy of NYLAG. The most striking examples are found in the everyday scenes at 26 Federal Plaza: immigrants breaking down in tears upon seeing armed and masked officers, panic attacks in the courtrooms themselves, and the reality that, every day, entire case files are left empty because immigrants have decided not to risk showing up. People are in an impossible situation, and they know it: attend court and risk being arrested, or stay home and receive a deportation order in absentia, losing any chance of winning their case.

This fear was supposed to be nonexistent in a sanctuary city like New York, which just three years ago became a haven for migrants expelled from Republican states like Texas  sheltering them, providing them with food, clothing, and education  but which now participates in the crusade that promises to expel them. Upon returning to the White House, Trump immediately extended an olive branch to Democratic Mayor Eric Adams, promising to shield him from a federal corruption case. Almost overnight, with Adamss complicity, the same city that received more than 230,000 migrants amid an unprecedented border crisis became one that allows masked agents to patrol the halls of its courthouses. In addition to Federal Plaza, its neighbor, the Ted Weiss Federal Building at 290 Broadway, and the immigration court on Varick Street, have been used for detentions.

Its a reality that Zohran Mamdani, the newly elected socialist mayor of the city, promises to change. After a campaign in which he pledged to stand up to Trump, during his victory speech on November 4, the young politician addressed the president directly and made his intentions clear: New York will remain a city of immigrants. A city built by immigrants, powered by immigrants. And starting tonight, led by an immigrant.

However, while waiting for Mamdani to take office in January and champion the cause of migrants as he promises, hundreds of families will still have to make the difficult decision to attend their appointments as required by law, knowing what lies behind the doors of places like Federal Plaza.

Federal agents detain a migrant after leaving immigration court in June 2025. Olga Fedorova (AP)

Jessica Supliguicha, from Ecuador, remembers the last day she saw her husband. It was outside Federal Plaza on the morning of September 6. Jorge Guaraca, 38, had a court date, but Supliguicha, nine months pregnant, wasnt allowed inside. She waited outside for him from 7:30 a.m. until noon. We were afraid, we knew something could happen, but we went anyway, says the 40-year-old.

A call from her lawyer told her what had happened inside. Guaraca had been arrested and was being held on the tenth floor, in the ICE cells. Supliguicha wanted to see her husband. I asked, and they told me I couldnt, she says, tears welling up. She hasnt seen him since that morning. Then came the calls from the detention centers, and later from Ecuador, to where her husband was deported. During one of those calls, Supliguicha was able to introduce him to her daughter, the baby she had to give birth to alone on October 5.

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Storms are typical in Gaza during this time of year, but with hundreds of thousands of Palestinians already displaced from permanent homes, even a moderate amount of rainfall can overwhelm residents and worsen the already dire situation

Palestinians recover a body from the rubble of a house destroyed in an overnight Israeli strike in Gaza City on October 29, 2025. (AFP file)

Already living in dilapidated conditions, displaced Palestinians in Gaza woke up to flooded tents after heavy rainfall caused a flood-like situation in the region.

The spokesperson of the Gaza Civil Defence, Mahmoud Basal, said that officials in the region have received hundreds of pleas for help, but resources are nonexistent.

Entire shelter centers have seen water levels rise to more than 10 centimeters (3.94 inches). Mattresses are soaked, blankets are drenched and there are no options left  because every option has been destroyed by Israel, he told reporters.

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Storms are typical in Gaza during this time of year, but with hundreds of thousands of Palestinians already displaced from permanent homes, even a moderate amount of rainfall can overwhelm residents and worsen the already dire situation.

No roof to protect us

Many Palestinians described their plight to CNN. Raed Al-Alayan said, We have been flooded by the rain, us and our little children. Our tents were flooded. There is no roof to protect us from the rain.

People were seen trying to divert water away from their tents as rain continued throughout the night. We have been awake since 2:30 a.m. because of the rain. Everything is soaked; the mattresses and the blankets, Abdulbasset Abulhadi told the news outlet.

Hundreds of tents and makeshift shelters were flooded, according to Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General. He informed reporters that UN partners involved in shelter efforts have highlighted that Gaza lacks the necessary equipment for effective flood prevention, such as tools to drain water from tents and remove solid waste and debris.

We fear that thousands of displaced families are now left fully exposed to the harsh weather elements, the spokesperson said.

Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP)s Communications Officer in Gaza Mai Elawawda said, Early this morning, heavy rain flooded the tents of displaced families, along with the few belongings they still have. Most of these families are surviving in completely worn-out tents that have travelled with them through two years of nonstop Israeli attacks and forced displacement. Frayed under the sun, these tents are now collapsing with the first signs of winter.
Two justices of Pakistans Supreme Court resigned after they expressed opposition to the newly imposed 27th Constitutional Amendment. They called the law a grave assault on the countrys constitution

Two justices of Pakistan's Supreme Court resigned after they expressed opposition to the newly imposed 27th Constitutional Amendment. On Friday, Pakistans President Asif Ali Zardari approved the resignation of Supreme Court justices Mansoor Ali Shah and Athar Minallah, who wrote letters emphasising how problematic undemocratic the amendment is.

Both judges forwarded their resignations to the Pakistani president shortly after the amendment was enacted into law. Both jurists argued that the 27th Amendment was a grave assault on the Constitution of Pakistan. However, the federal government called the judges resignations political speeches and the latters allegations unconstitutional.

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In his 13-page resignation letter, Justice Shah called the controversial law an assault on the Constitution that dismantles the Supreme Court, compromises judicial independence and weakens the countrys constitutional democracy. The letter came a day after Pakistans National Assembly passed the amendment bill, changing the judicial structure and military command despite considerable opposition.

President Asif Ali Zardari has accepted the resignations of Supreme Court judges Justice Mansoor Ali Shah and Justice Athar Minallah.  The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) November 14, 2025

What are the changes?

It is pertient to note that the 27th Constitutional Amendment fine-tunes the structure of the newly established Federal Constitutional Court (FCC), clarifying the titles and ranking of the countrys top judges. The changes that were enacted dropped several clauses from the Senate-approved draft that had sought to alter oath-related provisions for various constitutional offices.

Another key modification came in Clause 23, which amends Article 176 to include a proviso specifying that, notwithstanding anything contained in the Constitution, the incumbent Chief Justice shall continue to be known as the Chief Justice of Pakistan during his term in office.

A further addition was also made under Clause 56, which now defines the Chief Justice of Pakistan as the senior among the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, hence, establishing a formal hierarchy between the two institutions.

What the judges argue

In his resignation letter, Justice Shah wrote that the amendment, passed without debate or consultation, creates an FCC above the Supreme Court and places the judiciary under executive influence, leaving the apex court truncated and diminished.

He maintained that he could not serve in a court stripped of its constitutional authority, adding that continuing would amount to silently accepting a constitutional wrong. He lamented that his hope after the 26th Amendment had now been extinguished.

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The justices went on to warn that judicial independence faces the beginning of the end, arguing that the nation loses its moral compass when the judicial system is constrained.

In his resignation letter, Justice Minallah rejected the 27th Amendment, saying the Constitution he pledged to defend no longer exists and now survives only as a shadow without its spirit. He noted that he had warned the chief justice before the amendments passage, but his concerns were realised amid silence and inaction. Justice Minallah maintained that continuing in his office would betray his oath and dishonour the memory of the Pakistani Constitution.
Thousands of climate protesters marched through the Brazilian city of Belem on Saturday in a noisy, diverse and peaceful display to demand more action to protect the fate of the planet and vent their anger at governments and fossil fuel industries.

Thousands of climate activists took to the streets of Belem, Brazil, on Saturday in a loud, colourful, and peaceful demonstration, demanding stronger action to safeguard the planet and expressing frustration with governments and the fossil fuel industry.

Meanwhile, negotiators at the COP30 climate summit, held in the same city, marked the halfway point of the talks aimed at turning years of climate pledges into concrete measures to curb global temperature rises and support communities most affected by climate change.

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On the streets, Indigenous groups, youth activists, and civil society organisations came together under sweltering heat, singing, playing instruments, and waving banners. Brazils environment minister, Marina Silva, addressed the crowd, saying: This is a place for us to march and draw up a roadmap for what needs to be done at this COP: a transition away from deforestation and the use of fossil fuels.

Indigenous participant Cristiane Puyanawa joined the march to advocate for stronger land rights, telling protesters, Our land and our forest are not commodities. Respect nature and the peoples who live in the forest.

Protests have been a recurring feature at COP30. Earlier in the week, Indigenous activists attempted to force entry to the summit venue, leading to clashes with security on Tuesday, while a separate peaceful sit-in blocked access to the site on Friday morning.

On Saturday, designated as a day of protest in the two-week COP summit, there was a huge security presence around the venue, including military police in riot gear, even though the march route did not directly pass it.

COP30 talks to move into political phase

Inside the talks, negotiators who have spent the week trying to thrash out progress were reporting back on what they had achieved, before they hand over their work to ministers who will seek to overcome any remaining political obstacles.

As negotiators approach week two, they need to remember that climate action isnt about abstract numbers or distant targets. Its about people, said Katharine Hayhoe, chief scientist at environmental non-profit The Nature Conservancy.

Every choice we make today determines the future we will share tomorrow.

The sprawling summit agenda covers a huge range of issues with the intention of building on progress made in previous years  an often inch-by-inch process that has over three decades delivered some, but not enough, progress to reduce global warming.

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But the shape of what will emerge from the summit remains unclear, with some of the most controversial issues being discussed outside the formal process  such as increasing climate finance, moving away from fossil fuels, and how to address a collective shortfall in emissions-cutting plans.

The Brazilian COP30 presidency, which is steering those sideline discussions, must decide if it wants to attempt a high-stakes balancing act and come up with a political agreement on those issues that can be endorsed by all  known in COP parlance as a cover decision.

Asked about such a deal  as he has been most days since the summit began on November 10  COP30 President Andre Correa do Lago told a press conference:

For a long time, Ive been saying that we are not planning a cover decision, but I also said that if there is a movement from the countries to propose a cover decision, the presidency will obviously take it into consideration. So, lets see how things evolve.

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With inputs from agencies
While Trumps October visit to the Walter Reed Military Medical Center yielded seemingly great results, the White House declined earlier this week to provide specific details of medical images

U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to members of the media on board Air Force One on October 31, 2025 at Joint Base . File Image - AFP

US President Donald Trump has said that he has no idea what doctors analysed from his MRI test results that he underwent last month, asserting that the test was part of a standard health checkup.

The presidents comments have raised concerns about his health. I have no idea what they analysed. But whatever they analysed, they analysed it well, and they said that I had as good a result as theyve ever seen, Trump told reporters on Friday.

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While Trumps October visit to the Walter Reed Military Medical Center yielded seemingly great results, the White House declined earlier this week to provide specific details of medical images.

Medical experts note that MRIs are not typically part of a routine physical. Doctors usually prescribe them to get detailed images of the spine, heart and vascular system, brain, knees, or other parts of the body.

Trumps health checkup

At 79, Trump has "exceptional health", with his cardiac age found to be 14 years younger than his actual age, last months medical evaluation found.

After undergoing several assessments with a team of specialists, Trump received a clean bill of health. They confirmed that his cardiovascular health is unusually strong for someone of his age.

White House physician Sean Barbabella shared a summary of President Trumps latest medical evaluation.

Barbabella noted that the visit was part of his ongoing health maintenance plan and included lab tests, advanced imaging, and preventive health assessments. Trump also received immunisations, including his annual flu shot and an updated COVID-19 booster, ahead of upcoming international travel.

The doctor said that these tests were performed to ensure optimal cardiovascular health and continued wellness. According to Barbabella, the presidents blood work was exceptional, showing stable metabolic, hematologic, and cardiac parameters.

He continues to maintain a demanding daily schedule without restriction. President Donald J. Trump remains in exceptional health, exhibiting strong cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurological, and physical performance, Barbabella added.

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US President Donald Trump said he would take strong legal action against the BBC over how his speech was edited by Panorama in a documentary.

US President Donald Trump said he would take strong legal action against the BBC over how his speech was edited by Panorama in a documentary. While the corporation issued a public apology over the scandal, it refused to compensate him.

While speaking to reporters on board Air Force One on Friday evening, Trump said, Well sue them for anywhere between $1 billion and $5 billion probably sometime next week. The BBC said that the edit of the 6 January 2021 speech had unintentionally given the mistaken impression that President Trump had made a direct call for violent action.

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The British broadcaster, however, maintained that it would not pay any form of financial compensation for it. The scandal eventually led to the resignations of BBC director general Tim Davie and head of news Deborah Turness. I think I have to do it, Trump told reporters of his plan to take legal action. They cheated. They changed the words coming out of my mouth.

Will Trump sue the BBC?

While speaking to reporters, the American leader said he had not raised the issue with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer but that Starmer had asked to speak to him, and Trump would call him over the weekend. Earlier this week, Washington lawyers threatened to sue the BBC for $1 billion in damages unless the corporation issued a retraction, apologised and compensated him.

However, searches of the public court records database showed no legal action had been filed so far. In an interview with GB News on Saturday, Trump said, he has never seen anything like this before. Ive been doing this for a long time, Ive never seen anything like that. Thats, thats the most egregious. I think that was worse than the Kamala thing with CBS and 60 Minutes.

In July this year, American media company Paramount Global agreed to pay $16 million to settle a legal dispute with Trump regarding an interview it broadcast on CBS with former vice-president Kamala Harris. I think I have an obligation to do it, he said. If you dont do it, you dont stop it from happening again with other people, he added.
Trump has pulled his endorsement of Republican firebrand Marjorie Taylor Greene after escalating disputes, accusing her of constant complaining and drifting far left.

It marks an extraordinary rift in Trump's Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement. (Reuters)

US President Donald Trump said Friday he was pulling his endorsement for key ally Marjorie Taylor Greene after a string of disagreements, calling the hard-right lawmaker a ranting lunatic.

It marks an extraordinary rift in Trumps Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement a year before US midterm elections, with Trump facing growing criticism on the cost of living and the Jeffrey Epstein scandal.

I am withdrawing my support and Endorsement of Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, Trump said in a post on his Truth Social network.

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All I see Wacky Marjorie do is COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN!

Trump said he would be open to backing an opponent if Republicans in her state of Georgia decided to mount a primary challenge against Greene, saying people there were fed up with her and her antics.

If the right person runs, they will have my Complete and Unyielding Support. She has gone Far Left, Trump said.

Trump has, largely successfully, supported primary challenges against Republicans he considers insufficiently loyal in the past.

Greene responded quickly on X saying I dont worship or serve Donald Trump.

She asserted that Trump was attacking her as punishment  and as a warning to other Republicans  because she supports efforts for Congress to call on the administration to release the full Epstein probe files.

The split comes at a delicate time for Trump, following heavy off-year election losses earlier this month that have caused Republican jitters a year away from the 2026 midterms.

Firebrand Greene, 51, was until recently a diehard pro-Trump supporter  even wearing a Trump Was Right About Everything hat when he addressed Congress in March.

She has since broken with him on a host of issues, and Trump expressed frustration with her for the first time on Monday, saying she had lost her way.

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The first signs came when she split with other Republicans over the summer when she called Israels war in Gaza a genocide.

Greene has also been critical on health care and particularly the cost of living crisis, telling Trump to focus on the home front instead of foreign policy and peace deals.

Perhaps the most sensitive area of criticism has been Greenes position on the Epstein scandal, which ensnared Trump again in recent days with the release of a new trove of emails.

After becoming a leading voice calling for justice for victims of the notorious sex offender over the summer, Greene this week was one of a few MAGA rebels who backed a call by Democrats on a vote to push Trump to release files relating to the Epstein probe.

And of course hes coming after me hard to make an example to scare all the other Republicans before next weeks vote to release the Epstein files, Greene said in her X post Friday night.

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Its astonishing really how hard hes fighting to stop the Epstein files from coming out that he actually goes to this level, she added.

Greenes sudden shift has prompted speculation that she is lining up for her own presidential bid in 2028, although she has dismissed it as baseless gossip.

Famed for her scathing comments towards Democrats and journalists, Greene had previously made her name as a fierce defender of Trumps policies.

She also embraced QAnon conspiracy theories and in 2018 asserted that California wildfires were ignited by a space laser controlled by the Jewish Rothschild family.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Firstpost staff.)
Marjorie Taylor Greene has called for ending the H-1B visa programme after citing a Fox News report in which anchor Will Cain highlighted that 70% of H-1B visas go to India

US Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has moved to propose ending the H-1B visa programme after sharing a video of Fox News anchor Will Cain, whose remarks have intensified scrutiny of the system. Citing figures highlighted in the segment, Greene pointed to claims that 70% of H-1B visas go to India, 1015% to China, and that 80% are approved for entry-level roles, arguing that these positions should be filled by young American workers.

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Fox News host Will Cain set off a major political storm after delivering a sharp critique of the H-1B visa programme, a segment that swiftly spread across conservative circles online. Cain accused major corporations, particularly technology firms, of using the programme to recruit cheaper foreign workers at the expense of American labour. His comments coincided with the Trump Labor Department opening nearly 200 investigations into alleged H-1B misuse.

Cain argued that the programme is often misunderstood, stating, Thats a little hard to stomach when we hear were not talented or skilled enough, when you consider most are entry- or junior-level. He pointed to figures showing that 70% of H-1B visa holders come from India and a further 1015% from China, while 80% of approvals are for entry- or junior-level roles, a pattern he said contradicts claims that US employers lack skilled domestic workers. Calling the system a corporate advantage, he said companies hire foreign workers cheaper than American workers, a view echoed by Oculus and Anduril founder Palmer Luckey, who has described the programme as a programme to replace American workers with slave labour that cant ever escape.

The Fox News numbers say it all:



70% of H1B visas go to India.

1015% go to China.

80% are ENTRY-LEVEL jobs that should be going to young Americans!!



Our own people are being pushed out of tech, medicine, and every major industry.



Im introducing a bill to eliminate H1B pic.twitter.com/VZUjqhrzKv  Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) November 14, 2025

Trumps defence of the H-1B programme sparks backlash

President Donald Trump, in an interview with Fox News presenter Laura Ingraham on Tuesday, defended the H-1B programme, long regarded as a route for highly skilled foreign workers to enter specialised roles in the US. His position prompted strong criticism from conservative commentators who argue the system suppresses wages and narrows opportunities for American workers. Ingraham challenged him directly, saying, If you want to raise wages for American workers, you cant flood the country with tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands of foreign workers. Trump replied, No, you dont, deepening the divide.

Prominent conservative figures, including podcaster Benny Johnson and former Trump adviser Steve Bannon, have since renewed calls to abolish the programme completely. As federal investigations move ahead and political pressure increases, the future of the H-1B visa system remains a central flashpoint in the broader national debate over immigration, labour and American competitiveness.

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Notably, Trump said Friday he was pulling his endorsement for key ally Marjorie Taylor Greene after a string of disagreements, calling the hard-right lawmaker a ranting lunatic.
The United States military is planning to divide Gaza into a green zone and red zone as calls for the reconstruction of the coastal enclave start to escalate.

Heavy machinery operates at a site where searches are underway for deceased hostages kidnapped by Hamas during the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, amid a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, on Tuesday. Reuters

The United States military is planning to divide Gaza into a green zone and red zone as calls for the reconstruction of the coastal enclave start to escalate. According to a report by The Guardian, the US is mulling a plan where Gazas green zone would be under Israeli and international military control, where reconstruction would start, and a red zone would be left in ruins.

According to the American planning documents on the coastal enclave, obtained by The Guardian, foreign forces would initially deploy alongside Israeli soldiers in the east of Gaza, leaving the devastated strip divided by the current Israeli-controlled yellow line. Ideally, you would want to make it all whole, right? But thats aspirational, a US official told the British news outlet on the condition of anonymity. Its going to take some time. Its not going to be easy.

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While the US argue that its plan is realistic, it raises serious questions about Washingtons commitment to turning the ceasefire announced last month into an enduring political settlement with Palestinian rule across the region, which US President Donald Trump initially promised.

For weeks, plans for Gaza's reconstruction have been shifting considerably. Initially, the US promoted reconstruction in the form of fenced-in camps for small groups of Palestinians, referred to as alternative safe communities (ASC). However, the US official told The Guardian that those plans were dropped this week. Thats a snapshot of a concept that was put forth at a certain time, the US official said. Theyve already moved on from that.

The creation of ISF remains a concern

It is pertinent to note that the creation of an international stabilisation force (ISF) underpins Trumps 20-point peace plan. The US has been hoping to draft a UN Security Council resolution giving the force a formal mandate, which is likely to pass next week and would entail details on troop commitments.

The first step is we have to get the [resolution], the US official said. Countries are not going to make firm commitments until they actually see the language that has been passed. However, Trump himself has ruled out putting any US soldiers on Gaza soil to ensure the withdrawal of the Israeli forces from the enclave and to start the reconstruction process.

Earlier this month, the US military regional Centcom command drew up plans to put European forces  including hundreds of British, French and German soldiers  at the core of the ISF, documents seen by the Guardian indicate. The US also wanted troops from Germany, the Netherlands and Nordic countries to handle field hospitals, logistics and intelligence.

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However, European players have been describing the plans as delusional. After long missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, very few European leaders would be willing to risk their soldiers lives in Gaza. Although initially these nations have pledged their support to Trumps peace plan and offered a certain amount of troop deployment.

What Gaza reconstruction would entail

As per the documents, US military planners see reconstruction inside the green zone as part of a nebulous path to reuniting Gaza by convincing Palestinian civilians to move across the line of Israeli control.

As things progress and you create conditions for there to be significant progress on reconstruction, you [will] have Gazan civilians moving there beginning to thrive, the US official told The Guardian. People will say, Hey, we want that, and so it evolves in that direction. No ones talking about a military operation to force it.

However, making green zones in Gaza risks drawing comparison with Iraq and Afghanistan, where the phrase became synonymous with US military failures. When it comes to Baghdad and Kabul, the green zones were enclaves ringed by concrete blast barriers where western forces and their local allies retreated to escape the violence their mission had unleashed in the communities around them.

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It is important to note that Trumps 20-point plan commits to the demilitarisation of Palestinian factions in Gaza and an eventual Israeli withdrawal to a security perimeter carved out of Palestinian land. All this would be facilitated by the ISF and allow rebuilding to begin for the benefit of [Gazas] people. Activists argue that the need for reconstruction is urgent since more than 80 per cent of structures in Gaza have been damaged and destroyed in the war, including almost all schools and hospitals in the region.
South Carolina on Friday executed a death-row inmate by firing squad, its third execution by the method this year despite mounting criticism from rights groups. Stephen Bryant, 44, was put to death for a 2004 murder, even as his lawyers argued that evidence of lifelong brain damage had never been fully considered by the courts.

US: South Carolina executes inmate by firing squad, 3rd such capital punishment this year. Image: AI generated.

South Carolina executed a death-row inmate by firing squad on Friday, marking the states third use of the method this year despite intensifying criticism.

Stephen Bryant, 44, was sentenced to death for the 2004 killing of Willard TJ Tietjen and had pleaded guilty to two additional murders.

His lawyers argued that the sentencing judge never had the chance to consider evidence of brain damage linked to his mothers alcohol and drug use during pregnancy, but the state supreme court declined to halt the execution earlier this week.

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Final moments in the chamber

According to the Associated Press, Bryant made no final statement and briefly looked toward the 10 witnesses before officials placed a hood over his head. Three prison employeeseach armed with live ammunitionstood ready. About 55 seconds after preparations, shots were fired.

Bryant made no sound. A red target placed over his heart flew forward, and he took a few shallow breaths before a final spasm. A doctor pronounced him dead at 6:05 pm. A witness noted a pool of wetness forming on his chest where the bullets struck. Three relatives of victims, present as witnesses, held hands during the execution.

A rapid return to executions

South Carolina resumed executions last year after a 13-year pause caused by an inability to acquire lethal injection drugs. Since then, the state has carried out seven executions in 14 months. It conducted its first modern firing squad execution in Marcha method human rights groups call barbaricand one not used elsewhere in the US for 15 years.

The states Republican governor, Henry McMaster, denied clemency for Bryant. No South Carolina governor has granted clemency since the death penalty resumed in the US in 1976.

Bryants background and final meal

For his final meal, Bryant requested spicy mixed seafood stir-fry, fried fish over rice, egg rolls, stuffed shrimp, two candy bars, and German chocolate cake.

Bo King, a lawyer who works on death penalty cases, said Bryant suffered from a genetic disorder, severe childhood abuse, and permanent brain damage caused by his mothers binge drinking.

Mr. Bryants impairments left him unable to endure the tormenting memories of his childhood, King wrote, adding that Bryant showed grace and courage in forgiving his family and maintained deep friendships and a love for nature.

Firing squad amid shortages of lethal injection drugs

The firing squad has been used historically to punish mutiny, desertion, and political opposition across various countries. In the US, Zits revival comes as states confront repeated failures and drug shortages associated with lethal injections.

South Carolina is among several states where multiple execution methods remain legal, including the electric chair. After executions resumed in September 2024, the state has executed four inmates by lethal injection and three by firing squad.
The United States will hold five-day military drills in Trinidad and Tobago, involving the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, amid tensions with Venezuela and criticism from Nicolas Maduro.

The United States is set to launch a new round of military exercises in Trinidad and Tobago, with the five-day drills beginning on Sunday, the Caribbean nation announced.

The move comes after Washington sent a warship to the countrys capital last month, part of the Trump administrations growing military pressure on neighbouring Venezuela and its president, Nicolas Maduro. The USS Gravely, a guided-missile destroyer recently arrived in Port of Spain, joining the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, which is moving closer to Venezuelan waters.

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Maduro has condemned the carriers deployment, accusing the US of trying to create a new eternal war against Venezuela.

Soon after the warships arrival, Venezuela halted its energy deals with Trinidad and Tobago, accusing the island nation of taking hostile steps.

President Donald Trump has also alleged without presenting evidence that Maduro leads the criminal organisation known as Tren de Aragua.

According to the Financial Times, Trinidad and Tobagos attorney general said on Thursday that the US plans to intensify its military drills in the twin-island state, which lies only a few miles off Venezuelas coast.

On Friday, Foreign Minister Sean Sobers dismissed suggestions that the upcoming exercises signal any pending US military operation in the region, particularly in relation to Venezuela.

The drills will involve the US Marine Corps 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, which is already stationed in the Caribbean as part of what Washington describes as a mission to disrupt illicit drug trafficking.

Trinidad and Tobagos government said the exercises will help both forces better understand each others tactics and operations, while also allowing American troops to train local security personnel to respond to domestic threats such as drug crimes and gang activity.

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With inputs from agencies
An undated aerial drone photo shows an electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle performing flight demonstration at Luogang Park in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province. (Xinhua)

HEFEI, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- In a sprawling park in Hefei, capital of east China's Anhui Province, which was transformed from a retired civil airport, the future of transportation is being quietly tested.

Self-driving cars share the road with pedestrians, while delivery drones and electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOLs) buzz overhead.

The Hefei Luogang Park is one of many application scenarios that authorities in Hefei, one of China's rising innovation hubs, opened for the testing of new technologies, products and business models.

Since 2021, Hefei has been at the forefront of cultivating and opening application scenarios in various fields, such as industrial development and urban governance.

The local government is playing a key role by organizing roadshows and meetings to connect technologies with real-world applications, facilitating deeper integration of scientific and industrial innovation, said Gao Zhengrong, an official with Hefei's Development and Reform Commission.

China is seeking to drive high-quality economic development by exploring further application scenarios for new technologies and products, with the aim of promoting their large-scale industrial application and development, and accelerating the development of emerging industries.

Earlier this month, China unveiled a guideline aimed at "accelerating the cultivation and openness of scenarios and promoting the large-scale application of new scenarios."

Scenarios have become key innovation resources, defined as a bridge that connects technology and industry, and links research and development with the market, Li Chunlin, deputy head of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), told a policy briefing in Beijing on Monday.

The guideline prioritizes five key areas, including emerging industries, industrial transformation and public services, and has identified 22 specific fields for scenario cultivation and openness.

In south China's Guangdong Province, authorities are leveraging the region's vast market and diverse application scenarios to drive scenario innovation in 20 fields, including advanced manufacturing, maritime economy and low-altitude economy.

Ai Xuefeng, head of the Guangdong Development and Reform Commission, said the province has released 20 rounds of scenario supply-and-demand lists to connect innovators with potential users.

These real-world trials offer more than technical validation. They also provide a form of verification by testing the feasibility of business models and institutional reforms.

Central government departments are actively supporting the initiative. The State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission has opened 190 pilot test and verification platforms of centrally administered state-owned enterprises. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology is focusing on nurturing application scenarios in sectors such as "5G+," "AI+," "robotics plus" and "industrial internet plus."

Regions across China are transforming into innovation testing hubs. Beijing is promoting the application of smart city technologies, while Anhui plans to deploy 1,000 quantum information technology application scenarios by 2027.

To eliminate administrative barriers, 20 cities, including Hefei, Shanghai, Hangzhou and Foshan, formed a scenario innovation city alliance earlier this year, aiming to promote the wide application of new technologies and products across the country.

Experts say this nationwide push to create real-world testing environments is crucial for accelerating innovation and driving high-quality economic growth.

"Placing enterprises' research and development in real environments will allow new technologies, products, and business models to rapidly verify and evolve," said Liu Quanhong, director of the Institute of Industrial and Technological Economics under the NDRC. "This will become a new engine driving high-quality economic growth." 
Venezuela has expressed strong interest in partnering with India on critical minerals and attracting Indian investments, the commerce ministry said after a meeting between Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Venezuelan minister Hector Silva.

Venezuela has shown strong interest in expanding cooperation with India in the critical minerals sector and attracting Indian investments, the commerce ministry said on Saturday. The issue was discussed during a meeting between Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Venezuelas Minister of Ecological Mining Development Hector Silva.

During the meeting, the Venezuelan side expressed interest in expanding economic engagement with India beyond the oil sector, including cooperation in critical minerals and attracting Indian investment, the ministry said.

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Goyal stressed the need to revive the IndiaVenezuela Joint Committee Mechanism, whose last meeting took place a decade ago. He also noted that ONGCs ongoing operations in Venezuela offer opportunities for deeper collaboration in mining and exploration.

Goyal suggested that Venezuela consider accepting the Indian Pharmacopeia to boost pharmaceutical trade and pointed to potential areas of cooperation in the automobile sector.

In a separate statement, the ministry said National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation Limited, Logistics Data Services Limited and the Andhra Pradesh government have signed an MoU to digitise the states logistics ecosystem through the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP).

As part of the initiative, an integrated digital platform will be developed to give government and private stakeholders real-time visibility into Andhra Pradeshs logistics operations and performance indicators. The platform aims to improve coordination, enhance efficiency and support informed decision-making with seamless access to real-time data.
New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has urged people to boycott Starbucks as thousands of baristas across the US launched a nationwide strike demanding a fair contract.

Zohran Mamdani recounted how, when he first entered politics, an uncle gently suggested he keep his faith to himself. (AP)

New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has urged people to boycott Starbucks as more than a thousand workers across the US went on strike. Mamdani called on New Yorkers to avoid the coffee chain until baristas secure a fair contract.

Starbucks workers across the country are on an Unfair Labor Practices strike No contract, no coffee, he said on X, joining workers demanding better pay, improved staffing and action on hundreds of unfair labour practice complaints.

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Responding to a post by Starbucks Workers United, Mamdani said he would not buy from Starbucks during the strike and asked others to do the same. While workers are on strike, I wont be buying any Starbucks, and Im asking you to join us, he wrote, adding, Together, we can send a powerful message: No contract, no coffee.

Starbucks workers across the country are on an Unfair Labor Practices strike, fighting for a fair contract.



While workers are on strike, I wont be buying any Starbucks, and Im asking you to join us.



Together, we can send a powerful message: No contract, no coffee. https://t.co/Cw0WMf2hVW  Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) November 14, 2025

Starbucks Workers United announced on X that employees nationwide had begun an Unfair Labour Practices (ULP) strike. They said the walkout could become the largest and longest in Starbucks history. As of today, Starbucks workers across the country are officially ON STRIKE Say No Contract No Coffee with us: DONT BUY STARBUCKS for the duration of our open-ended ULP strike! the union wrote.

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Workers have launched an open-ended walkout called the Red Cup Rebellion, timed with Starbucks annual Red Cup Day  one of the companys busiest events  when customers receive a free reusable holiday cup with a seasonal drink.

The union says Starbucks has committed over 400 labour law violations, citing rulings from Administrative Law Judges at the National Labor Relations Board. The strike has drawn workers from more than 25 cities, including New York, Dallas, Seattle, Ohio, Minneapolis and Philadelphia.

Baristas in these cities walked out, turning the high-traffic promotional day into a major protest point in their ongoing dispute with management. The union, representing roughly 9,000 workers, accuses Starbucks of refusing to negotiate and says the strike could grow if talks remain stalled.

As of today, Starbucks workers across the country are officially ON STRIKE. And we're prepared for this to become the biggest and longest ULP strike in Starbucks history.



Say #NoContractNoCoffee with us: DON'T BUY STARBUCKS for the duration of our open-ended ULP strike! $SBUX pic.twitter.com/zFLACFXnwJ  Starbucks Workers United (@SBWorkersUnited) November 13, 2025

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As of today, Starbucks workers across the country are officially ON STRIKE, the union reiterated in another post. And were prepared for this to become the biggest and longest ULP strike in Starbucks history DONT BUY STARBUCKS for the duration of our open-ended ULP strike!

No end date has been set. More stores may join if a contract deal is not reached.

This is the unions fourth strike since 2023 and the third since CEO Brian Niccol took over in 2024. Last years Red Cup Day strike forced around 60 stores to temporarily close. Starbucks has also faced criticism for recent closures of hundreds of outlets, including 59 unionised stores.
MOSCOW, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Three Russia-made Il-114-300 jets are expected to be delivered in 2026, Russia's Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Gennady Abramenkov said Friday.

According to him, air carriers expect the aircraft to operate on routes in Russia's Far East, Siberia, and northern regions, where airports have limited infrastructure and face harsh weather conditions.

Abramenkov said the plane's manufacturer, United Aircraft Corporation, part of Russia's state-owned aviation giant Rostec, is working with aviation and leasing companies to develop a financial model for the aircraft's operation.

The Il-114-300, a modernized version of the Il-114 turboprop airliner, is intended to replace aging An-24 aircraft as well as foreign-made regional jet models. Designed for local and regional routes, it can operate from short and unpaved runways and is suited for remote and Arctic regions. 
China boosts human resource services for manufacturing industries

Xinhua) 09:55, November 15, 2025

BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- China has launched a program aimed at enhancing the integrated development of the human resource services industry alongside key manufacturing sectors.

The initiative designates 39 pilot cities to carry out the program, with the goal of fostering synergy in development that will drive job creation and stimulate growth within the manufacturing industry.

The pilot cities, including Beijing, Tianjin and Tangshan, span nearly all provincial-level regions across the country, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security.

The human resource services industry plays a critical role not only in supporting high-quality and full employment, but also in advancing the development of a modern industrial system. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), the industry provided more than 50 million instances of professional services to employers on an annual basis, offering tailored solutions to address the specific human resource needs of employers.

Pilot cities are encouraged to focus on key manufacturing sectors such as smart manufacturing, electronic information, new materials, new energy, and biotechnology. It has also been recommended that they explore innovative methods that align industrial upgrading with employment, according to the ministry.

Industrial chain leaders, specialized and sophisticated small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as key human resource service providers are especially invited to participate in the program.

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Liang Jun)
Guests unveil the Italian edition of the third volume of "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China" during the launch ceremony in Rome, Italy, Nov. 13, 2025. The launch event for the Italian edition of the third volume of "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China" and the China-Italy Symposium on State Governance were held here on Thursday, with about 150 representatives from various sectors of both countries in attendance. (Xinhua/Li Jing)

Photo taken on Nov. 13, 2025 shows the launch event for the Italian edition of the third volume of "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China" in Rome, Italy. The launch event for the Italian edition of the third volume of "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China" and the China-Italy Symposium on State Governance were held here on Thursday, with about 150 representatives from various sectors of both countries in attendance. (Xinhua/Li Jing)
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BAGHDAD, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Seven people were killed and six others wounded on Saturday in a tribal dispute over land ownership in the southern Iraqi province of Maysan, a local security official said.

The clash erupted early on Saturday morning between two tribes in a village near the town of Ali al-Gharbi, north of the provincial capital, Amarah, according to Major Ali al-Kaabi from the Maysan Operations Command.

"Violent fighting involving medium and light weapons broke out," al-Kaabi told Xinhua, adding that reinforcements from the Federal Police and Rapid Response forces later arrived, brought the situation under control, and launched a search operation for weapons and wanted individuals.

Saad Nabhan, a doctor at the General Hospital in Amarah, confirmed the casualties, saying the hospital received seven corpses and six wounded patients.

Sporadic deadly clashes remain a persistent challenge in southern Iraq, fueled by the widespread availability of weapons, a legacy of decades of conflict, including the 2003 U.S. invasion and the war against the Islamic State group. These clashes continue to undermine local security even as the country experiences broader relative stability. 
Letters from over 30 different countries to Jeannie Lemmay, thanking her for her amulets which they say brought love, fortune and other positives to their lives after purchasing the amulets in the 1970s. Letters seen inside her daughter Penny Allemans home nearly 50 years later on Nov. 12, 2025.
BEIJING, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- China will implement a proactive fiscal policy in an effective manner to support the country's high-quality development during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), according to Finance Minister Lan Fo'an.

Over the next five years, China's development environment will undergo profound and complex changes, the minister said in an interview with Xinhua.

Internationally, the external environment is volatile and unstable, major-country rivalry is becoming more intricate and intense, unilateralism and protectionism are on the rise, and the world economy lacks growth momentum.

Domestically, China's economy exhibits solid fundamentals, strong resilience, and great potential. The conditions and underlying trends supporting long-term growth remain unchanged. At the same time, there are notable changes in industrial structure, business models, population demographics, and wealth distribution; however, risks in some areas have yet to be fully resolved.

These shifts will have profound implications for fiscal operations, macro regulation and fiscal and tax reform, Lan said, adding that it is therefore essential to respond effectively to the evolving situation, seize and create opportunities amid crises and challenges, and enhance the effectiveness of fiscal policy to better promote the country's high-quality development.

The minister said the finance authorities will strengthen counter-cyclical and cross-cyclical regulation, set the deficit-to-GDP ratio and the scale of government borrowing in line with evolving conditions, make combined use of tools such as the budget, taxation, government bonds and transfer payments, and provide sustained support for economic and social development.

Support will be increased for areas including the modern industrial system, science and technology, education and social security, while coordination between fiscal policy and monetary, industrial and regional policies will be strengthened to improve coherence across the whole process of policy formulation and implementation, said the minister.

On building a strong domestic market, Lan said China will make coordinated use of policy tools such as fiscal subsidies to expand consumption of goods and services, foster new consumption growth drivers, and create new consumption scenarios.

China will also make coordinated use of local government special-purpose bonds and ultra-long special treasury bonds while optimizing the direction of government investment.

Meanwhile, the country will expand effective investment, encourage private capital to participate in major projects, and move faster to build a unified national market and foster a fair and just market environment, said the minister.

The minister said China will advance fiscal reform and management over the next five years, with a stronger focus on optimizing resource allocation, improving the structure of fiscal expenditure and raising the efficiency of fund use.

Greater emphasis will be placed on balancing efficiency and equity, giving full play to the role of taxation in promoting high-quality development, social fairness and a unified market, he said.

The country will refine the fiscal relationship between the central and local governments, and ramp up the establishment of long-term mechanisms for government debt management that meet the needs of high-quality development, said the minister. 
Nathan graduated with his journalism degree from Auburn University in 2017. After growing up in the flatlands of rural Alabama with his parents and older sister, Nathan enjoys Western Colorado's natural resources and recreational opportunities. He currently covers education and business for The Daily Sentinel.
Tue Tuesday

51 /33

Mix of sun and clouds. Highs in the low 50s and lows in the low 30s.
Who is Jeff Hurd, really? Voters would like to know
Contracts

Contracts For Nov. 14, 2025

AIR FORCE

Altus Technology Solutions, LLC, Hanover, Maryland, was awarded a ceiling $175,000,000 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for operations maintenance and support Services at Melrose Air Force Range. This contract provides for personnel, training, supervision, and administrative support to perform nine regimes of support encompassing facility maintenance, aerial gunnery and bombing ranges, ground training ranges, Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) sites, electronic/technology, scheduling, wildland fire, paramedic, and Situational Force. Work will be performed at Melrose Air Force Range, Melrose, New Mexico and is expected to be completed by Nov. 30, 2035. This contract was a competitive acquisition and two offers were received. No funds are being obligated at time of award. The 27th Special Operations Contracting Squadron, Clovis, New Mexico is the contracting activity. (FA485526D0001)

Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, Orlando, Florida, has been awarded a $84,729,165 modification (P00011) to previously awarded contract FA8682-24-C-B001 for the Joint Air to Surface Standoff Missile Foreign Military Sales Production Support. The modification brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $9,578,685,257 from $9,493,956,092. Work will be performed at Orlando, Florida and Troy, Alabama and is expected to be completed July 31, 2031. This contract involves foreign military sales to Poland, Netherlands, Finland, and Japan. Foreign Military Sales Funds in the amount of $84,729,165 are being obligated at the time of award. The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, is the contracting activity.

NAVY

Peraton Technology Services Inc., Chantilly, Virginia, was awarded a $17,538,865 cost-plus-fixed fee to order (N0001926F0013) against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N0001921G0010). This order provides for the continued development, delivery, sustainment, requirement analysis and design of the Theater Mission Planning Center in support of the Navy. Work will be performed in Santa Clara, California (71%) and various telework locations within the Continental U.S. (29%) and is expected to be completed in November 2026. FMS customer funds in the amount of $6,040,989 will be obligated at the time of award and Fiscal 2026 Other Procurement, Navy funds in the amount of $11,497,876 will be obligated once made available; none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity.

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

UPDATE: Matheny Motor Truck Co.,* Parkersburg, West Virginia (SPE8EC-26-D-0005, $248,000,000) has been added as an awardee to the multiple award contract for trucks and trailers, issued against solicitation SPE8EC-21-R-0007 and awarded March 18, 2022. The contracting activity is Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

OFD Foods LLC,* Albany, Oregon, has been awarded a maximum $28,768,500 fixed-price with economic-price-adjustment, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for boil-in-bag reduced cholesterol dehydrated egg mix. This was a competitive acquisition with two responses received. This is a three-year contract with no option periods. The ordering period end date is Nov. 12, 2028. Using military services are Army, Navy and Marine Corps. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2026 through 2029 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE3S1-26-D-Z200).

https://www.defense.gov/News/Contracts/Contract/Article/4332403/

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Security Council Delays Vote on Renewal of Interim Security Force for Abyei

Meetings Coverage

Security Council

100042nd Meeting (PM)

SC/16220

13 November 2025

The Security Council today delayed its vote on the renewal of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), whose mandate expires on 15 November 2025.

The 15-member organ suspended its meeting to resume informal consultations on the mission, located in the Abyei Area, a disputed territory on the border of Sudan and South Sudan.

"In light of the discussion that took place on the text, including developments until the last minute, I wish to call on behalf of the A3+ members [Algeria, Sierra Leone, Somalia and Guyana], for closed consultations before we proceed," said the representative of Algeria, speaking for the A3+ group.

The representative of the United States also addressed the Council, noting that Washington, D.C., had "negotiated this draft in good faith, asking only for reasonable and common-sense benchmarks for this mission". Given the situation in South Sudan and the imperative of protecting civilians, he said the United States believes "this resolution should pass, and that every peacekeeping mission should have clear benchmarks to measure success and to ensure all parties are fulfilling the mandate entrusted by the Council".

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West Virginia Woman Pleads Guilty to Lying to Obtain U.S. Citizenship After Committing War Crimes in Bosnia

Friday, November 14, 2025

For Immediate Release

Office of Public Affairs

A naturalized U.S. citizen from Bosnia and Herzegovina pleaded guilty on Nov. 10 to criminal charges related to her lying about her prior criminal conduct to obtain U.S. citizenship.

"The defendant obtained the privileges of U.S. citizenship through lies and deceit, concealing the violent crimes she committed in Bosnia and Herzegovina," said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department's Criminal Division. "The Department is fully committed to holding accountable those who exploit our immigration system and pose a threat to public safety."

"Covering up past human rights abuses to attain U.S. citizenship is an egregious offense, and I thank our law enforcement partners both here in the U.S. and in Bosnia and Herzegovina for investigating this matter to ensure that justice is done," said U.S. Attorney David X. Sullivan for the District of Connecticut.

"Individuals who lie on their naturalization documents undermine the process for all who justly apply to be a part of our great nation," said Special Agent in Charge P.J. O'Brien of the FBI New Haven Field Office. "Tomanic's admissions of fraud are detestable because of her history of targeting people based on their ethnicity and religion. The FBI, along with our partners at the the Department of Homeland Security's Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center, and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Office of Fraud Detection and National Security will continue to investigate crimes of this nature to ensure the sanctity of the immigration process for all who righteously apply for U.S. Citizenship."

According to court documents, Nada Radovan Tomanic, 53, served with the Zulfikar Special Unit of the Army of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the 1990s, during the armed conflict in the region. Along with other Zulfikar Special Unit soldiers, Tomanic participated in the physical and psychological abuse of Bosnian Serb civilian prisoners.

When applying for U.S. naturalization in 2012, Tomanic falsely denied having served in a detention facility or in any other situation involving the detention of others. She also falsely denied having committed a crime for which she had not been arrested  specifically, the crime of inflicting serious bodily harm under the Criminal Law of the Socialist Republic of Yugoslavia.

Tomanic's deception extended beyond her written naturalization application. During her interview with a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officer, she was placed under oath and legally obligated to answer questions truthfully. Despite that obligation, she again lied about her service in a detention facility and her past criminal conduct.

Tomanic pleaded guilty to one count of procuring citizenship contrary to law. She is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 3, 2026. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The defendant faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.

Trial Attorney Elizabeth Nielsen of the Criminal Division's Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anastasia King and Angel Krull for the District of Connecticut are prosecuting the case, with assistance from HRSP historians. The Criminal Division's Office of International Affairs also provided assistance.

The FBI is investigating the case, with coordination provided by the Department of Homeland Security's Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center (HRVWCC) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' Office of Fraud Detection and National Security (FDNS), along with the FBI's International Human Rights Unit (IHRU). The Justice Department thanks authorities from Bosnia and Herzegovina, to include the Ministry of Justice of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Srpska Ministry of Interior, Serbian authorities, and the United Nations International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals, who were instrumental in providing assistance that aided in furthering the investigation.

Members of the public who have information about human rights violators in the United States are urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALLFBI (1-800-225-5324) or through the FBI's online tip form at www.tips.fbi.gov/

, or Homeland Security Investigations at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE (1-866-347-2423) or through ICE's online tip form at www.ice.gov/webform/ice-tip-form.

Topic: Immigration

Components: Criminal Division

Criminal - Human Rights and Special Prosecution Section

Criminal - Office of International Affairs

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

USAO - Connecticut

Press Release Number: 25-1072

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TEHRAN, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei on Saturday warned of "precarious" consequences for international peace and security from intensified U.S. military activity in the Caribbean and Latin America.

In a statement, he urged respect for Venezuela's sovereignty and territorial integrity, two days after U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a "counternarcotics operation" in the Western Hemisphere known as "Southern Spear."

Baghaei said U.S. threats to use force against Venezuela's legal government amounted to "conspicuous law-breaking" and a violation of the UN Charter.

He cited "numerous reports" by international organizations describing U.S. attacks on fishing boats in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific as "arbitrary and extrajudicial killings," and said Washington was "abusing" the issue of drug trafficking to infringe on Venezuela's sovereignty.

He also called on the United Nations to prevent actions that could undermine international peace and encourage "belligerent unilateralism."

The United States has deployed several warships north of Venezuela, saying the mission targets suspected "narco-terrorists" it claims are linked to the Venezuelan government.

Since September, the United States has carried out 20 strikes on fishing vessels in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, killing 80 people. 
European Group of Five (E5): Press remarks by the High Representative Kaja Kallas following the meeting

European External Action Service (EEAS)

14.11.2025

EEAS Press Team

Thank you, dear Boris. Thank you for convening us today. We really had a very good and open discussion. Thank you everybody for that.

I also want to thank Germany for further increasing its support to Ukraine from next year - the decision to increase annual support to 11.5 billion sends a powerful message of support. And Germany's leadership on Ukraine saves lives and sets an example for the rest of Europe.

I have just returned from meeting of G7 foreign ministers, and we all agreed that immediate and full ceasefire is a priority. But right now, Russia does not want to negotiate at all. Every time the world reaches out, Russia responds with missiles. Russia's latest attacks make abundantly clear that Russia is pressing with war, and this pattern keeps repeating.

Ukraine will need more funding next year. There are several options, but using immobilised Russian assets is the most clear-cut way to sustain Ukraine's defence. It is also the way to show Russia that time is not on their side. Supporting Ukraine is a bargain compared to the cost of Russia's victory.

Wars are lost by whoever runs out of money or soldiers first. That is why we continue to apply pressure on Russia with sanctions. Work is going on the 20th package of sanctions, and sanctions clearly work better when they are matched by our international partners. The latest US. Sanctions are already depriving Russia of revenues that it uses to fund its war. Our sanctions are hitting Russia where it hurts.

Today, we also spoke about the rise of hybrid attacks against Europe: sabotage, cyber-attacks, drone incursions have become a daily occurrence. We cannot accept this as the new normal.

We must work together systematically to counter hybrid threats and restore deterrence. On European Defence Readiness, the EU has presented a clear roadmap to fill the capability gaps across nine areas. Now the work will fill these gaps is starting. Seamless military mobility is essential for European defence readiness. We need to be able to move troops and military equipment where we need them and when we need them.

Next week, I will present, together with the Commission, a plan to improve military mobility and this will include proposals to make our roads, bridges, tunnels, train lines, airports and other infrastructure projects able to cope with large scale military movements, pool transport resources to help each other out when needed, and make the permit process for moving troops around Europe faster.

Dear Boris, thank you again for welcoming us in Berlin. And thank you for Germany playing a pivotal role in Ukraine's defence and defence of our union or together. Thank you.

Q&A

Q: Can you explain just what kind of a message is coming out of this meeting? This is, of course, a very strong, visible sign that you're all standing there together and when you're talking about the EU's plans to increase military mobility, Ms. Kalas, how is that linked with NATO's plans? And how do you want to avoid confusion between all the various institutions?

It is complementing NATO's plan. We are in constant contact with NATO, so that we do not duplicate, but we try to contribute. We have NATO's military plans ready, but then we have all the Member States that need to deliver for those capability targets. And that is why we have come up also with the Capability Coalitions, because there are a lot of capabilities that are too expensive to procure for one country alone, but they are also answering the NATO's military targets for those countries who then cooperate. So, no duplication in this regard. When it comes to military mobility, the roads, bridges, Member States need to build those. But they need to be also really in line with those plans that actually Member States are able to move military from where it is to where they need it and when they need it so. So, this is definitely complimentary to what NATO is doing. Thank you.

Q: My question is about China, apart from Russia, that is a threat to our security. They are very active in the Arctic region, and they are involved in the war against Ukraine. So did you talk about China in your discussions today?

China is the key enabler of Russia's war in Ukraine. But we also have other worries with China regarding their economic coercive practices that they are using, we see increasing weaponisation of trade. For example, when it comes to critical raw materials, that are also necessary for our defence industries. We discussed this briefly that in order to get rid of the old dependencies, we should be very careful not create new ones that could also hurt us. So, very briefly, yes we discuss this. Thank you.

Q: Not directly related to Ukraine, the Russian Federation has extended the mandate for EUFOR in Bosnia. But there is sort of the writing on the wall that this may not continue forever. What steps will the European Union and maybe its Member States take in the next while to prepare for an eventual potential veto?

Very good question, actually. Western Balkans was also something that we discussed briefly today. I was just two weeks ago in EUFOR Althea in Bosnia and Herzegovina. And you are very right. The mandate is now extended for one more year and then comes a question: 'What next?'. So far, there has not been a veto by Russia, and there are different reasons for that, but clearly, Western Balkans is our closest neighbourhood. The stability there is very important for us. It has two sides. One is, of course, the military presence so that things do not go out of hand. But the other side is the political side, which is really to help them with the EU enlargement process, to help them to really work together, so that the tensions are down. I also plan to visit other Western Balkan countries and other also, Bosnia and Herzegovina regions, to see what more can we do in order to actually bring the tensions down so that we do not need the intervention as well. Thank you.



Q: As you know, there was another deadly drone attack last night in Kyiv. I just had my colleagues on the phone, and my question would be: would the European Union -or the group of five format-, consider supporting Ukraine by defending the Western Ukrainian airspace, like from European territory, for example, with long range defence systems from European soil, in the end to free up the Ukrainian defence systems for the major cities?

Of course, what kind of military support to give to Ukraine is up to the Member States to decide. It is clear that Ukraine needs more air defence. Like it was already mentioned, 93% of Russian targets have been civilian targets. So, to defend their country, they need more air defence, they need more ammunition, we also talked about that. What more can we do in this regard, because it is really urgent. Russia wants to show that they can outlast us, and we have to show that that is not true. We are supporting Ukraine so that they can defend the people. But when it comes to concrete air defence equipment, Member States have it, the European Union does not have it, so Member States need to decide on giving that.

Link to the video: https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/media/video/I-280650

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The Estonian Defence Forces launched an operation to enable rapid response to air threats

Republic of Estonia - Defence Forces

14. November 2025, 13:01

Today, November 14, the Estonian Defence Forces launched an operation, led by the Estonian Air Force, to create conditions for rapid response to possible air threats. The threat of a direct military attack against Estonia remains low, and the overall threat assessment has not changed, but the possibility of isolated drone and air incidents remains. The operation is a continuation of previously initiated training in responding to air threats, and is led by the Estonian Air Force.

"The Russian Federation's war against Ukraine inevitably affects the security of our region. Although violations of Estonian airspace by unmanned aerial vehicles are a rare occurrence, we must nevertheless be prepared to respond to such situations immediately," said Commander of the Estonian Air Force Brigadier General Riivo Valge. "The recently launched operation creates conditions for a quicker response to potential airspace violations. It is not possible to completely eliminate the risks, but we can do our part to reduce them."

According to Brigadier General Riivo Valge, the operation and its participants contribute directly to the security of the Estonian people.

In mid-September, due to airspace violations in Estonia and in the region, the Estonian Defence Forces launched an exercise for increasing its readiness to respond to air threats. During the exercise, personnel were trained, procedures were practiced, and broader conditions for launching this operation were created.

As part of the operation, force protection measures at the permanent locations of the Estonian Defence Forces will be adjusted, and conditions will be created for the rapid relocation of air surveillance and air defence units outside of military bases to enable a more effective response to threats directed at Estonia. During the operation, restrictions imposed on flight activity in parts of Estonian airspace will remain. In order to expand air defence capabilities, supplementary training has been provided to the members of Estonian Defence Forces and the Estonian Defence League, and such training will continue in the future. Cooperation and information exchange with the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board has also been enhanced. Active duty and reserve military personnel, conscripts, and members of the Estonian Defence League are participating in the operation.

The operation is led by the Estonian Air Force, and involves various units of the Estonian Defence Forces and the Estonian Defence League. Estonian airspace is also part of NATO airspace, which is protected by, among other things, NATO air policing units serving in Estonia. On the allied side, air defence in Estonia is provided by an Italian Air Force unit using Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets, and is supported from the ground by an Italian SAMP-T long-range air defence missile battery.

The overall threat assessment of the Estonian Defence Forces has not changed. There is no immediate military threat to Estonia, and no conventional Russian military action against Estonia is foreseeable in the near future. Nevertheless, the risks posed by airspace violations have increased, but these can be mitigated through preventive measures.

The Estonian Defence Forces are grateful to the parties involved in the operation, including property owners, for their support to national defence. At the same time, the Estonian Defence Forces urge the public to refrain from photographing the Estonian Defence Forces' personnel situated in unusual locations, and from publishing information about their location.

The Estonian Defence Forces also encourage the public to report any suspicious flight activity in Estonian airspace, especially unmanned aerial vehicles, via the mobile application Ole Valmis. The feature that allows users to send information about unknown aircraft has been reactivated.

In case of activation of air raid sirens, or receiving a corresponding notification on the phone, one should take immediate cover, and wait for the follow-on notification about end of alert.

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Foreign Minister Tsahkna in Riga: Baltic cooperation needs to shift gears

Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

14.11.2025 | 15:04

On 14 November, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna was in Riga for the 31st meeting of the Baltic Council, alongside a trilateral meeting with the foreign ministers of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

During the meeting, Tsahkna discussed regional security and cooperation with his Latvian counterpart Baiba Braze and Lithuanian counterpart Kestutis Budrys, including Estonia's upcoming presidency of the Nordic-Baltic and Baltic cooperation formats in 2026. Transatlantic relations, continued pressure on Russia to end its war, and support for Ukraine were also on the agenda.

In his address to the 31st Baltic Council session, Tsahkna outlined Estonia's priorities for its 2026 presidency of Baltic cooperation, stressing the need to shift gears.

"Baltic cooperation has served us well. We've achieved its original goals: our independence is secure, occupying forces have left our countries, and we are fully integrated into the European Union, NATO, and other international organisations," Tsahkna said. "Now we need a 'Baltic Cooperation 2.0'  more modern, flexible, and effective, with less bureaucracy."

According to Tsahkna, Estonia's priorities for the 2026 presidency include security, cross-border connectivity  particularly the completion of Rail Baltic  and support for Ukraine.

"These goals cannot be achieved by Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania alone," Tsahkna noted. "Fortunately, we are part of the Nordic-Baltic cooperation format (NB8), which in recent years has gained new momentum and become the leading platform for addressing regional issues."

"Next year, Estonia will not only lead Baltic cooperation but also hold the presidency of the NB8 format. Through this dual presidency, we aim to integrate NB8 and Baltic cooperation more closely than ever, to achieve our shared goal with Nordic allies  securing the region's safety and prosperity," the Foreign Minister said.

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Undersecretary Roger takes part in US-Nordic-Baltic foreign and security policy consultations

Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

14.11.2025 | 10:06



Martin Roger, Undersecretary for Political Affairs at the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is in Washington from 12 to 14 November to participate in foreign and security policy consultations between the United States and the Nordic and Baltic countries. The meetings focused on Russia's aggression against Ukraine, NATO priorities, security issues in the Baltic Sea region, and developments in the Indo-Pacific.

"Despite diplomatic efforts by the US and Europe, it is clear that Russia is unwilling to compromise on its demands and has no interest in achieving peace in Ukraine. This is evident in the intensified attacks by Russian forces on Ukraine's civilian infrastructure, aimed at making this winter even harsher than any before. Yet the Ukrainian people remain resilient and unbroken  they will not lose this war. We will achieve a just and lasting peace if we continue to provide Ukraine with military, financial, and humanitarian aid, and increase pressure on Russia," Undersecretary Roger said, emphasising the shared conclusion that the US and the Nordic-Baltic countries are more effective when acting together.

Co-chairing the discussion on European security, Roger highlighted that the like-minded Nordic and Baltic countries are among Ukraine's strongest supporters  as demonstrated by the recent joint decision of eight countries to contribute $500 million to the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL). He also noted that the Baltic Sea region countries are leading efforts to strengthen European defence capabilities and apply pressure on Russia, including by countering its shadow fleet. The United States expressed appreciation for the leadership shown by the Nordic and Baltic countries in these areas.

"At the NATO Summit this summer, we made a historic decision to raise defence spending to 5%, and Estonia plans to meet this target as early as 2026. Both the US and other NATO allies have reaffirmed their full commitment to Article 5. Europe must do more to ensure its own security, just as the continued US contribution to the Alliance's security and defence remains critical as a strong deterrent," Roger stated.

Since 2003, consultations under the E-PINE (Enhanced Partnership in Northern Europe) format have brought together the United States, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Norway. These discussions focus on the most pressing current issues among countries with closely linked security interests and a strong will to cooperate. The US delegation was led by Allison Hooker, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs at the US Department of State. Estonia, as the upcoming chair of Nordic-Baltic cooperation, will host the next E-PINE meeting in spring.

In addition to the meetings in Washington, the Nordic and Baltic political directors will visit NATO's Allied Command Transformation (ACT) in Norfolk and the Joint Force Command (JFC), where they will meet with leadership and tour the US Navy aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman.

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Pevkur at the meeting of Nordic-Baltic ministers of defence: Russia's Achilles heel is its oil industry and shadow fleet

Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Defence

14. November 2025 - 10:39

The meeting of Nordic-Baltic ministers of defence held in Helsinki on Wednesday and Thursday focused on the activities of Russia's shadow fleet and continued support for Ukraine.

'Russia's oil industry and exports, which are sustained by its shadow fleet, are among the most important pillars of Russia's war economy. Preventing this activity both in the Baltic Sea and beyond the Danish straits is the quickest way to put pressure on Russia to end the war,' said Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur. According to him, imposing restrictions on the shadow fleet is important not only in terms of security, but also in terms of environmental protection and the protection of critical infrastructure.

In recent months, Ukraine has stepped up its attacks on Russia's oil industry, destroying more than 20% of Russia's oil refining capacity.

'Impeding Russia's shadow fleet is not a task that lies solely with the Nordic-Baltic countries  it needs to be done before the shadow fleet reaches the Baltic Sea. Therefore, it is encouraging to see France and other allies becoming increasingly active in reining in Russia's shadow fleet,' Pevkur added.

The meeting also discussed further support for Ukraine, including the recent 500 million support package put together in Nordic-Baltic cooperation.

'I am pleased that one of these aid packages has been created through Nordic-Baltic cooperation, with Estonia contributing 10 million,' Pevkur emphasised.

The Priority Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) is a joint initiative by NATO and the United States, through which allies fund military aid to Ukraine via the United States. The initiative was announced last summer by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and US President Donald Trump.

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Iran calls for immediate global response to crisis in Sudan

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Nov 14, 2025

London, IRNA -- Iran's ambassador and permanent representative to the UN in Geneva has condemned the crimes and humanitarian crisis in the city of El Fasher in Sudan and warned of widespread famine, the displacement of thousands of civilians, and the role of foreign interventions in worsening the disaster, urging an immediate global response.

Ali Bahreini made the remarks on Friday on the catastrophic situation in El Fasher at the 38th special session of the UN Human Rights Council.

Expressing deep concern over the worsening human rights and humanitarian crises in the city and surrounding areas, he said that severe famine, mass displacement, and the suffering of civilians have created one of the gravest humanitarian crises in the world, requiring urgent international attention.

Criticizing the ongoing silence and lack of decisive international action that has exacerbated the crisis, he added the particular concern is the continued transfer of weapons that facilitate these crimes.

Foreign interventions, including the supply of arms and recruitment of mercenaries, fuel the continuation of conflict and intensify the humanitarian disaster, he said.

Stressing the need to respect Sudan's territorial integrity, Bahreini strongly rejected any attempt to impose a dual governance situation or weaken the central authority of Sudan's legal government.

He also called on all countries to take decisive measures, protect civilians, and support lasting peace and unity in Sudan.

Countries participating in the session condemned the crimes committed in El Fasher and surrounding areas, emphasizing the need to protect civilians and find sustainable solutions to Sudan's humanitarian and political crisis.

Armed clashes in Sudan began on April 15, 2023, between the army led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commanded by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti. The conflict stemmed from disputes over how to integrate the RSF into the army following the 2021 coup. International mediation efforts have so far failed to end it.

The RSF, which had besieged El Fasher for more than a year, attacked and captured the city on October 26, 2025. Khartoum, the UN, and other international organizations have accused the RSF of committing mass killings and widespread human rights violations against civilians in the city, including summary executions, detentions, and forced displacement of residents.

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Hamas condemns Israeli settlers arson attack on West Bank mosque

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Nov 14, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has condemned the arson attack on the Hajjeh Hamideh Mosque, as settlers set it ablaze near Salfit, highlighting the rising assaults across the West Bank.

In a statement late on Thursday, Hamas said, "The burning of the Hajjeh Hamideh Mosque by Zionist settler gangs exposes the level of sadism and racism that characterizes the Israeli occupation," Lebanese news outlet Al Mayadeen reported.

It added, "The terrorist settlers' crimes against our land, our people, and our sanctities take place with full support and sponsorship from the fascist occupation cabinet," urging immediate international action "to rein in this rogue entity that violates all international laws, norms, and heavenly teachings."

The attack took place earlier on Thursday when settlers poured flammable materials at the entrance of the mosque, located between Deir Istiya and Kifl Hares northwest of Salfit, and set it on fire. Residents intervened quickly, limiting the damage and preventing the mosque from being completely destroyed.

The incident is part of a growing pattern of settler violence across the occupied West Bank, where Palestinian homes, communities, and religious sites continue to face escalating attacks under the protection of the Israeli occupation authorities.

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Minister R. Kaunas and Chairman of the NATO Military Committee discussed air defence

Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence

2025-11-14

International cooperation | Security and defense policy

Minister of National Defence Robertas Kaunas received Chairman of the NATO Military Committee Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone who is conducting a visit tin Lithuania. They discussed regional security, air defence and support to Ukraine.

"Today we see russia testing NATO capabilities and readiness with breaches into the eastern flank's airspace. The security situation clearly indicates a necessity to step up air defence in the region. I look forward to the enhanced vigilance operation Eastern Flank Watch becoming a milestone in reaching this objective," Minister R. Kaunas said.

Minister thanked Admiral for the support to Italy's decision to deploy the SAMP/T long-range air defence system to Lithuania in the framework of the Rotational NATO Air Defence Model. He also briefed the guest on Lithuania's work on strengthening national defence capabilities and discussed the airspace violations caused by the hot-air smugglers' balloons and drones.

When discussing the NATO defence capabilities, minister reassured of Lithuania's continued commitment and increase of defence spending next year. The financial ambition for 20262030 remains set on 56% of GDP defence budget in order to provide full infrastructure for the German Brigade by 2027 and have Full Operational Capability Division by 2030.

Discussing regional security, Minister underscored the critical importance of NATO readiness for execution of the defence plans and Allied presence in the region for effective deterrence and defence.

When addressing support to Ukraine, the recent developments on the battlefield were discussed. R. Kaunas also presented the assistance to Ukraine initiatives Lithuania was contributing to, including the Nordic-Baltic military equipment and ammunition package worth USD 500 million pledged yesterday. Possible NATO effort to put more pressure on Russia's shadow fleet was also discussed.

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Occupied West Bank: Increased Israeli violence against Palestinians must stop

Press briefing notes

Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

14 November 2025

From

Spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights: Thameen Al-Kheetan

Location

Geneva

Images of mobs of masked Israeli settlers carrying out arson attacks in the occupied West Bank this week are abhorrent and reflect a wider pattern of increased violence against Palestinians. Several people were injured in the attacks, which included a raid on a dairy factory and the torching of delivery trucks and homes.

The surge in violence comes as Israeli authorities have ramped up home demolitions, the seizure of property, arrests, and movement restrictions, alongside the unabated building of settlements and outposts and the forcible displacement and transfer of thousands of Palestinians by Israeli settlers and the military.

Permanently displacing the Palestinian population within occupied territory amounts to unlawful transfer, which is a war crime. The transfer by Israel of parts of its own civilian population into the territory it occupies also amounts to a war crime.

We reiterate that the Israeli Government's assertion of sovereignty over the occupied West Bank and its annexation of parts of it are in breach of international law, as the International Court of Justice has confirmed. They also violate the Palestinian people's right to self-determination.

More settler attacks were recorded in October than in any month since 2006  over 260 attacks.

Since 7 October 2023, and up until 13 November 2025, Israeli security forces and settlers have killed at least 1,017 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Among the victims were 221 children. This does not include Palestinians who have died in Israeli detention. During the same period, 59 Israelis were killed in Palestinian attacks or alleged attacks or armed clashes.

Among the latest fatalities in the West Bank was a 13-year-old Palestinian boy Aysam Jihad Labib Naser. He died on Tuesday, a month after inhaling tear gas fired by Israeli security forces towards him and his family, as settlers attacked them while they were harvesting olives in their land in Beita, near Nablus.

Just last week, on 6 November, two 16-year-old Palestinian boys, Mohammad Abdullah Mohammad Taym and Mohammad Rashad Fadel Qasim, were shot and killed by Israeli Forces in Al Judeira village in East Jerusalem. The Israeli authorities allege that they threw Molotov cocktails. Two days later, a 26-year-old Palestinian man was killed in a raid on Al-Fara'a refugee camp, west of Tubas.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk reiterates that attacks against Palestinians and their property must stop, and those responsible must be held to account. Israel must end its unlawful presence in the occupied Palestinian territory, including by ceasing immediately all new settlement activities, and evacuating all settlers from the occupied Palestinian territory. Palestinians' right to self-determination must be realised.

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Air Force gets 5 more Black Hawk helicopters

Philippine News Agency

By Priam Nepomuceno

November 14, 2025, 3:11 pm

MANILA -- The Philippine Air Force (PAF)'s humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) capabilities received a much-needed boost as five more S-70i Black Hawk helicopters were commissioned into its service Friday.

In a statement, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Christina Basco said the acceptance, turnover and blessing ceremonies for the aircraft took place at the 250th Presidential Airlift Wing at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

Department of Budget Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, PAF chief Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura, and Department of National Defense (DND) Undersecretary for Acquisition and Resource Management Salvador Melchor Mison Jr. attended the ceremony.

The helicopters comprise the fourth batch under the 32-unit S-70i acquisition from Poland's PZL Mielec, procured through the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization program.

The latest batch arrived in the Philippines on Oct. 20, following previous deliveries of five units each on June 10 and Dec. 9, 2024; and July 15.

Each helicopter underwent technical inspection and acceptance process on Oct. 22 to 26, conducted jointly by the DND, AFP and PAF, to ensure compliance with operational standards.

The aircraft will be operated and maintained by the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing under the Air Mobility Command.

"With this latest addition, the PAF continues to strengthen its air mobility capability and fulfill its mandate to protect the nation and serve the Filipino people, in times of both humanitarian crisis and conflict," Basco said. (PNA)

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JINAN, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Authorities in east China's Shandong Province have designated an additional 43,000 square meters of coastal waters as part of an underwater cultural relics protection zone to safeguard the long-lost remains of three sunken warships from the First Sino-Japanese War.

The Shandong Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism has released the precise coordinates of the protected waters on its official website, informing the public that the measures are intended to strengthen the preservation of underwater cultural relics from the First Sino-Japanese War.

Under the new protection measures, activities such as fishing, blasting and construction work that could jeopardize the safety of the underwater relics are prohibited.

Zhou Qiang, deputy director of the underwater archaeology research office at the Shandong Underwater Archaeological Research Center, said the three shipwreck sites lie close to one another, resting 4 to 6 meters underwater near Liugong Island in Weihai Bay.

The remains have been identified as those of the Dingyuan, Laiyuan and Jingyuan, all battleships of the Beiyang Fleet during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912). No complete hulls survive; only scattered fragments of the ships remain.

The ships were destroyed during the First Sino-Japanese War, commonly known in China as the Jiawu War, which began on July 25, 1894, when Japanese warships attacked two Chinese vessels off the Korean port of Asan.

This year marks the 130th anniversary of the end of the war lasting from 1894 to 1895.

According to the Shandong archaeological research center, after the war, Japan carried out several destructive salvage operations on the sunken vessels of the Beiyang Fleet.

Chinese archaeological institutions conducted joint underwater investigations from 2017 to 2023, confirming the identities of the three sunken warships and salvaging over 4,000 cultural relics. These findings provide crucial physical evidence for the study of the war and the Beiyang Fleet. The artifacts are currently housed at the National Cultural Heritage Administration and the Chinese Museum of the Sino-Japanese War.

Zhou Chunshui, a researcher with the National Cultural Heritage Administration's archaeological research center, said the archaeological project related to the sunken warships was the largest, longest-running and most productive archaeological project of a naval battlefield anywhere in the world.

The national museum, dedicated to the Beiyang Fleet and the First Sino-Japanese War, is located on Liugong Island, which has been developed into a patriotic education base, as the war is regarded as "a bitter lesson to learn" in Chinese history. In October alone, the museum received 198,562 visitors. 
Marcos admin fully committed to AFP modernization  DBM chief

Philippine News Agency

By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos

November 14, 2025, 2:19 pm

MANILA -- The Marcos administration is "100 percent" committed to modernizing the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to enhance the capabilities of government forces, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said on Friday.

Pangandaman gave the assurance while leading the acceptance, turnover and blessing ceremony of five newly delivered S-70i Black Hawk utility helicopters for the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

In her keynote speech, Pangandaman said the government is determined to ensure that front-line defenders are equipped with the tools they need to protect the nation.

"Under the steadfast leadership of your Commander-in-Chief, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Department of Budget and Management reaffirms our commitment to modernizing the Armed Forces of the Philippines, including our Air Force," Pangandaman said.

"You can also be assured of our 100 percent support for the continuous capability enhancement and modernization program of the AFP," she added.

Pangandaman emphasized that the Black Hawk helicopters are more than mere assets, noting that every minute is critical in saving livesespecially during crises, emergencies, and periods of recovery and rehabilitation.

She said each aircraft serves as a lifeline to reach far-flung, hazard-prone, and underserved communities that require relief assistance during calamities.

"This is what these aircraft represent. They are symbols of our country's resolve not only to protect its sovereignty but also to ensure the safety and welfare of every Filipino," Pangandaman said.

The newly delivered units are part of the PAF's Additional Utility Helicopter Acquisition Project, which covers a total of 32 Black Hawk helicopters.

Another five units are scheduled to arrive in December 2025, while the remaining seven units are expected by the second quarter of 2026.

The S-70i Black Hawk, a world-class, four-bladed, twin-engine, medium-lift utility helicopter, is designed for reliability, versatility, and performance in both military and humanitarian operations. Its multi-mission capability allows responders to reach communities often cut off during disasters  where every minute can mean the difference between life and death.

With their proven reliability and operational flexibility, Pangandaman said the Black Hawk helicopters will play a critical role in medical evacuations, airlifting relief goods, rapid troop deployment for peace and security, aerial surveillance, combat search and rescue, and disaster response  including firefighting using heli-buckets.

She added that the arrival of the new helicopters will help facilitate faster rescues, quicker delivery of food and aid, safer transport of the wounded, and more lives saved during earthquakes, landslides, typhoons and armed threats. (PNA)

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In fresh escalation, US announces 'Operation Southern Spear' in Caribbean

Iran Press TV

Friday, 14 November 2025 11:43 PM

The United States has announced launch of the so-called "Operation Southern Spear," a new military escalation in the Caribbean, framed by Washington as intensified "war on drugs."

The operation, which involves advanced naval, aerial, and robotic strike technologies, was announced by the chief executive on Friday amid rising US interest in Venezuela.

The announcement followed widespread US military activity in the Caribbean over recent months, including strikes on vessels the Pentagon claims were involved in "drug trafficking."

Since September, the attacks have claimed at least 76 people in what human rights groups denounce as extrajudicial killings and breach of the international law.

According to reports, the new American operation gives the administration of US President Donald Trump a wide array of options, ranging from targeting alleged drug routes to potential action against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

A day earlier, senior American military officials had presented Trump with "updated options" for potential operations in Venezuela, including strikes on land, CBS News reported, citing multiple sources familiar with the meetings at the White House.

The development had seen Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine, and other senior officials brief the president on military options for the coming days, the report noted.

Also on Thursday, Venezuela took preemptive measures, activating a nationwide defense command system unifying the military, police, and civilian institutions to protect strategic infrastructure.

Maduro signed the Comprehensive Homeland Defense Command legislation, bringing key electricity, water, fuel, and transportation systems under coordinated protection.

He emphasized the principle of "unity among the people, the army, and the police," stating that Venezuelan society had to be prepared to defend its sovereignty under any circumstances.

Washington's allies, the United Kingdom and Canada, have distanced themselves from the drive.

The UK has suspended sharing of maritime intelligence with the US over concerns that Washington was using British-provided information to carry out deadly and unlawful military strikes on so-called drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean.

Canada, another long-standing US partner in such operations, has also distanced itself from the strikes. While continuing to cooperate with the US Coast Guard under Operation Caribbean, Ottawa has formally instructed Washington not to use Canadian intelligence in any lethal operations.

Germany and Switzerland have also called for a peaceful solution to the escalating situation.

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Lebanon sovereignty violated by Israeli walls, UNIFIL says amid repeated ceasefire violations

Iran Press TV

Friday, 14 November 2025 6:38 PM

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has warned that Israel's military has built walls in south Lebanon near the UN-demarcated Blue Line, the demarcation line dividing the Arab country from the Israeli-occupied territories.

In a statement released on Friday, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) called the moves "a violation of Lebanese sovereignty."

UNIFIL further pointed out that in October, it surveyed "a concrete T-wall erected by the Israel military southwest of Yaroun. The survey confirmed that the wall crossed the Blue Line, rendering more than 4,000 square meters of Lebanese territory inaccessible to the Lebanese people."

"In November, peacekeepers observed additional T-wall construction in the area. A survey confirmed that a section of wall southeast of Yaroun also crossed the Blue Line," it added.

The Israeli military has confirmed that it was advancing a series of measures, including reinforcing the physical barrier along the Lebanese border.

UNIFIL has been working with the Lebanese army to consolidate a truce between Israel and the Lebanese resistance group Hezbollah reached last November. UNIFIL said it had informed the Israeli army of the findings and demanded that it move the walls.

"We again call on the Israeli military to respect the Blue Line in its full length and withdraw from all areas north of it," the UNIFIL statement said.

UNIFIL added that the force would formally advise the Israeli army of the results of the November survey.

UNIFIL went on to explain that "Israeli presence and construction in Lebanese territory are violations of Security Council resolution 1701 and of Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity," referring to the UN resolution that ended a 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah.

The resolution, which brokered a ceasefire in the 33-day-long war Israel launched against Lebanon in 2006, calls on the occupying Tel Aviv regime to respect Lebanese sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The resolution also formed the basis of last November's truce deal.

The Israeli army killed more than 4,000 people and injured nearly 17,000 in its attacks on Lebanon, which began in October 2023 and turned into a full-scale aggression in September 2024.

Israel and Hezbollah reached a ceasefire agreement that took effect on November 27, 2024. Under the deal, Tel Aviv was required to withdraw fully from the Lebanese territory, but has kept forces stationed at five sites, in clear violation of the 1701 resolution and the terms of last November's agreement.

Since the implementation of the ceasefire, Israel has violated the agreement multiple times through repeated assaults on the Lebanese territory. Israel has kept up its near-daily attacks on south and east Lebanon and is occupying five hills it deems strategic in the south.

Lebanese authorities have warned that the Israeli regime's violations of the ceasefire threaten national stability.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun recently said Israel's continued hostilities and its failure to implement the November 2024 agreement were preventing Lebanon's army from completing its deployment along the southern borders.

The Secretary General of Hezbollah, Sheikh Naim Qassem, in a speech on Tuesday, reiterated that the US and Israel's calls for the disarmament of the resistance group were designed to weaken Lebanon and leave it exposed to external aggression.

He described the calls for the disarmament of Hezbollah as "a pretext" for launching an aggression on Lebanon

The Hezbollah chief stressed that the US and Israeli threats and pressure "will not change our stance; we will defend our land and dignity, and we will not surrender."

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UNRWA chief slams Israel for crippling Gaza aid operations

Iran Press TV

Friday, 14 November 2025 3:31 PM

The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) says Israel was deliberately disrupting its operation by blocking the entry of vital aid to Gaza amid its more than two-year genocidal war.

UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini told the UN General Assembly Fourth Committee on Thursday that the regime was crippling humanitarian operations as Palestinians face the onset of heavy rains and winter with sparse shelter or relief.

Despite the ceasefire mandating the passage of humanitarian aid, only a fraction of that needed for the population has been let in by Israel, he noted.

"Safeguarding UNRWA's mandate and operations is required under international law; it is vital to the survival of millions of Palestinians; and it is essential for a political solution," the UNRWA chief said.

The remarks follow recent findings by the UN Commission of Inquiry and rulings by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) obligating Israel to lift restrictions on the agency.

ICJ President Yuji Iwasawa said that Israel must "agree to and facilitate relief schemes provided by the United Nations and its entities," including UNRWA.

UN agencies and several humanitarian organizations have reiterated that Israel was failing to uphold the terms of a Gaza ceasefire agreement by refusing to reopen the crucial Rafah border crossing with Egypt.

Separately, Lazzarini also told a news conference at the UN headquarters in New York that severe funding shortfalls were threatening UNRWA's essential services. He urged donor nations to provide more money so that the agency could continue its operations in Gaza despite funding cuts by the United States.

"We run week by week, month by month. I know that as of today, we will be able to process our salaries in November, but have no idea if or no visibility if we will be able to process our salaries in December," said Lazzarini.

Israel has barred UNRWA from operating in the occupied territories after baselessly accusing some of its employees of participating in the October 7, 2023, al-Aqsa operation carried out by resistance groups.

Following those allegations, the US, the greatest benefactor of the Israeli regime, suspended its support.

"In the absence of a significant influx of new funding, the delivery of critical services to millions of Palestinian refugees across the region will be compromised," Lazzarini added.

In the wake of Israel's decision, UNRWA was forced to repatriate its international staff from Gaza and the occupied West Bank, limiting its food aid distribution abilities.

But it still employs 12,000 people in the besieged Palestinian territory, and its services are vital to Palestinians, Lazzarini insisted.

"About 75,000 people were sheltered in 100 of our premises across the Gaza Strip," he said.

Elsewhere in his remarks, the UNRWA chief also noted that the agency's joint vaccination campaign with UNICEF and the World Health Organization. UNRWA also provides education for tens of thousands of children.

"We have, over the last two years, provided more than 15 million primary health consultations. Today, the average is about 14,000 a day," he added.

Under the ceasefire, which took effect on October 10, and which Israel has violated hundreds of times, aid deliveries were supposed to be significantly ramped up, with at least 600 trucks a day due to enter Gaza to fulfil the population's needs.

However, only "around 150 trucks" have been entering Gaza daily, carrying supplies that are not sufficient for the two million Palestinians who are currently displaced and homeless.

The lack of supplies has prompted the UN to warn that the hunger crisis in Gaza remains catastrophic, particularly in the north, where famine was declared in August.

UNRWA was founded in 1949 following the Nakba (Catastrophe), when hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were forced from their homes by the occupying regime.

Many of those refugees make up large portions of the populations in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, living in refugee camps supported by the aid agency.

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Iran urges swift global action as Sudan crisis deepens

Iran Press TV

Friday, 14 November 2025 2:11 PM

A senior Iranian diplomat has condemned the "crimes and humanitarian crisis" unfolding in the Sudanese city of El Fasher, calling for urgent international action to address the worsening situation in North Darfur.

Iran's Ambassador to the UN in Geneva, Ali Bahraini, delivered the remarks on Friday during the 38th special session on the human rights situation in and around El Fasher amid the ongoing conflict in Sudan.

He voiced alarm over the escalating humanitarian emergency, warning of famine, mass displacement and the impact of foreign interference on the conflict.

"Severe famine, widespread displacement, and the sufferings of civilians have created one of the most severe humanitarian crises in the world, which requires immediate attention from the international community," the ambassador said.

Bahraini criticized the international community for "keeping silent" in the face of the crisis and highlighted concerns about foreign involvement.

"Our special concern is the continued transfer of weapons that contribute to these crimes. Foreign interventions, including the supply of arms and recruitment of mercenaries, fuel the continuation of conflicts and escalation of the humanitarian crisis," he added.

He also underscored the need to respect Sudan's sovereignty.

"Iran strongly rejects any attempt to impose a situation of 'dual governance' or undermine the central authority of the legitimate government of Sudan," he said.

Bahraini urged all countries to take "decisive measures," protect civilians and support efforts toward lasting peace and unity in Sudan.

Violence in Sudan has escalated significantly over the past month, especially after the so-called Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias seized El Fasher in late October.

The UAE-backed militants have massacred at least 2,000 people in El Fasher, in what some rights groups describe as a "true genocide."

The conflict has involved widespread atrocities, including ethnic massacres, sexual violence, summary executions, and mass displacement of nearly 89,000 people in and around the city.

The military and the RSF, who were former allies, went to war in 2023. WHO says the fighting has killed at least 40,000 people, and the United Nations says another 12 million have been displaced.

Aid groups say the true death toll could be many times higher.

At its Friday session, the United Nations' top rights body adopted a resolution ordering the UN's independent fact-finding mission on Sudan to urgently investigate violations of international law by all sides in the western city, and urging it to "identify, where possible" suspected perpetrators in a bid to ensure they are "held accountable".

"The atrocities that are unfolding in el-Fasher were foreseen and preventable, but they were not prevented. They constitute the gravest of crimes," said Volker Turk, the UN human rights chief, on Friday.

Turk said "none of us should be surprised" by reports, since the RSF took control of the city, of "mass killings of civilians, ethnically targeted executions, sexual violence including gang rape, abductions for ransom, widespread arbitrary detentions, attacks on health facilities, medical staff and humanitarian workers, and other appalling atrocities."

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China, Russia, Arab nations reject US Gaza plan at UN Security Council

Iran Press TV

Friday, 14 November 2025 11:36 AM

Russia has proposed its own draft resolution on Gaza at the UN Security Council after a US proposal failed for gain the support of Moscow, China and Arab nations.

In a note to UNSC members on Thursday, Russia's UN mission said its "counter-proposal is inspired by the US draft."

"The objective of our draft is to enable the Security Council to develop a balanced, acceptable, and unified approach toward achieving a sustainable cessation of hostilities," the note, seen by Reuters, said.

Washington formally circulated the draft resolution to the 15 Council members last week. The text would authorize a two-year mandate for a transitional governance body and an international stabilization force.

Russia, China, and some Arab states oppose the proposal, citing concerns about a yet-to-be-established board temporarily governing the strip and the absence of any transitional role for the Palestinian Authority.

According to four UN diplomats briefed on the matter, who spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity, China and Russia  two veto-wielding members  have called for the "Board of Peace" under US President Donald Trump's Gaza ceasefire plan to be removed from the resolution entirely.

However, the US maintains the language around the board that the US has proposed as a transitional administration for Gaza in the latest draft released late Wednesday.

The Russian draft requests that the UN Secretary-General identify options for an international stabilization force for Gaza, and does not mention the "Board of Peace".

Among the sticking points regarding the US text are the pathway to an independent Palestinian state and the timeline for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, according to the diplomats.

Still, the US mission to the UN urged the Security Council to move ahead with Washington's resolution.

"Attempts to sow discord now  when agreement on this resolution is under active negotiation  has grave, tangible, and entirely avoidable consequences for Palestinians in Gaza," a US mission spokesperson alleged.

The diplomats said that the Americans could decide to go forward unilaterally with a force from willing countries that would not have UN backing.

Hamas and Israel agreed last month to the US-brokered Gaza ceasefire, aimed at ending the latter's two-year-long genocidal war against Palestinians in the besieged territory.

The truce took effect on October 10, but Israel has continued to violate it by carrying out airstrikes, incursions, shootings, and arrests.

The deal marks the first phase of Trump's 20-point Gaza ceasefire plan, with further stages to be negotiated at a later date.

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UNISFA remains essential to protecting civilians in Abyei: UK Explanation of Vote at the UN Security Council

Speech

UK explanation of vote delivered by Jennifer MacNaughtan, UK Minister Counsellor, at the UN Security Council meeting on Abyei.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Jennifer MacNaughtan, UK Minister Counsellor

Published 14 November 2025

Location: United Nations, New York

Delivered on: 14 November 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

The United Kingdom voted in favour of renewing UNISFA's mandate, and we thank the United States for their efforts on the text.

I will make two points.

First, UNISFA remains essential to maintaining stability and protecting civilians in Abyei.

We urge the Sudanese and the South Sudanese authorities to take steps in line with this resolution for the benefit of peace and security.

As this resolution makes clear, any decisions on UNISFA's future must be informed by a thorough assessment of the implications for the protection of civilians.

Second, addressing the drivers of conflict in Abyei requires sustained attention to the impacts of climate change and related challenges, while ensuring that the specific needs of women and girls are met, including through an inclusive peace process.

In Abyei, these are not abstract concepts.

As such, we regret the removal of provisions in this regard.

The United Kingdom will continue to work with all Council members to support UNISFA in delivering effectively for the people of Abyei.



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This resolution will support the Council's ability to monitor and deter violations of the arms embargo in Yemen: UK Explanation of Vote at the UN Security Council

Speech

Explanation of Vote by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Charge d'Affaires to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Yemen.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and James Kariuki CMG

Published 14 November 2025

Location: United Nations, New York

Delivered on: 14 November 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

Today's adoption underlines this Council's continued commitment to advancing peace and stability in Yemen.

The resolution will support the Council's ability to monitor  and therefore deter - violations of the arms embargo. In so doing, it will help constrain the Houthis' capacity to destabilise Yemen and threaten regional maritime security, while avoiding negatively impacting the humanitarian situation for the people of Yemen.

We welcome Council members' support in ensuring that the sanctions regime evolves to reflect the increasing complexity and scale of Houthi smuggling and financing.

This includes looking more at issues such as the transfer of dual-use components to the Houthis and the mechanisms for vessels suspected of carrying arms or related materiel.

We continue to call for the 2140 Committee to coordinate with other relevant Sanctions Committees to closely monitor cross-border arms flows, financial transactions and personnel movements between Yemen, Al-Shabab and designated groups in Sudan.

The United Kingdom reaffirms its support for the vital role UN sanctions continue to play, as part of our collective efforts towards achieving a durable, inclusive and lasting peace in Yemen.







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UN Human Rights Council Special Session on Sudan's El Fasher. Core Group Statement.

Speech

Statement for the Special Session on Sudan. Delivered by the UK's Permanent Representative to WTO and UN, Kumar Iyer, on behalf of the Sudan Core Group: Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway and the UK.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Kumar Iyer CMG

Published 14 November 2025

Location: Geneva

Delivered on: 14 November 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

Read 'UN Human Rights Council Special Session on Sudan's El Fasher. Core Group Statement.' article

Mr President,

This statement is on behalf of the Sudan Core Group.

Sudan is collapsing under a brutal, protracted war. Last month, the Council condemned the escalation of violence in and around El Fasher and called upon all parties to protect civilians. These calls have been ignored and defied.

The atrocities reported after the fall of El Fasher to the Rapid Support Forces are horrific: summary executions, sexual violence, abductions. Over 89,000 civilians have fled the city, joining millions already displaced.

This is not merely a human rights and humanitarian emergency; it is a threat to regional stability and a test of international resolve.

This Special Session brings global attention to the horrors unfolding in El Fasher. As the support for holding this Session shows, staying silent is not an option.

We urge this Council to support a strong resolution that condemns the atrocities, demands unfettered humanitarian access, and mandates an urgent inquiry by the Fact-Finding Mission. The FFM's work is vital to document the truth and preserve the possibility of justice and reconciliation.

The Council must deliver a clear message: impunity will not be tolerated, and the international community stands ready to act. This war must end.

Thank you.



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UK National Statement for the Special Session on Sudan

Speech

National Statement for the Special Session on Sudan. Delivered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington, Minister for International Development and Africa.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and The Rt Hon Baroness Chapman of Darlington

Published 14 November 2025

Location: Geneva

Delivered on: 14 November 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

Mr President,

We are appalled by the violence and specific targeting of civilians in the fall of El Fasher to the Rapid Support Forces. The reporting is horrific: ethnically motivated killings, executions, starvation and rape as a weapon of war.

These are not isolated incidents. Ongoing impunity, and reticence from the international community means the conflict in Sudan is now the largest humanitarian crisis of the 21st century.

Civilians are experiencing famine and famine-like conditions across Sudan. Both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces continue to obstruct assistance from reaching the over 30 million people who are in need.

The UK has announced an additional 5 million in humanitarian support, bringing our total this year to 125 million.

But aid is not enough. The guns must fall silent. We need a renewed push for peace, a ceasefire backed by global cooperation through the Quad and the UN.

Mr President, there must be accountability and that is not possible without facts. The Fact-Finding Mission is pivotal to establishing the facts surrounding the crimes committed in El Fasher, in order for perpetrators to be held to account.

I urge this Council to show the Sudanese people that they are not forgotten.

Thank you.







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HAIKOU, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Recently, Sunrise Fuel (Hainan) Co., Ltd. completed a cross-border transaction settlement with an overseas client through its EF account in less than two hours in south China's Hainan Province. It is a speed that would have been unimaginable in the past.

"With the EF account, we can handle cross-border settlements entirely online through a one-stop process," said Chen Qiuyi, financial director of Sunrise Fuel (Hainan) Co., Ltd.

There is no need to verify each payment manually. Once a payment instruction is submitted online, the funds are transferred quickly and securely to the overseas recipient, Chen added.

In contrast, domestic companies making U.S. dollar payments to overseas partners had to provide extensive supporting materials, including upstream and downstream contracts and invoices, in the past. The process usually took one to two working days.

The EF account's full name is Electronic Fence Account. It is officially known as the multi-functional free trade account. On April 3, 2024, the Hainan Branch of the People's Bank of China established a cross-border capital flow management framework and issued corresponding management measures. Later, the EF account system officially went live on May 6, 2024.

Since its launch, the EF account has been hailed by the financial industry as a "highway" for cross-border capital flows. It is a key infrastructure that facilitates the free flow of capital across borders in the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP). It has quickly become popular among enterprises engaged in international trade and investment.

Industry experts explained that the main advantage of the EF account is the integration of domestic and foreign currency accounts. It uses RMB as its main account currency. It allows multiple foreign currencies (such as the U.S. dollar and the euro) to be linked as sub-accounts under the same account number, eliminating the need for companies to open multiple accounts for different currencies. This unified structure greatly improves operational efficiency.

According to Ye Hong, general manager of the Transaction Banking Department at the Bank of China Hainan Branch, the EF account supports multiple freely convertible currencies, including the U.S. dollar, euro, and yen, and allows settlements using offshore exchange rates. Enterprises can flexibly choose between onshore and offshore rates based on their business needs and market conditions.

The creation of the EF account marks a major institutional innovation toward realizing Hainan FTP's goal of free and convenient cross-border capital flows. The Hainan FTP will officially launch island-wide special customs operations on Dec. 18 this year, marking a landmark move by China to promote the development of an open world economy.

Wang Fanghong, vice chairman of the Hainan FTP Financial Society, noted that the EF account represents a crucial step in advancing Hainan's high-level financial opening-up.

It will continue to provide strong financial support for the port's deeper opening-up after the island-wide special customs operations and meet the increasingly diverse financial needs of enterprises engaged in global trade and investment, Wang said.

Currently, the EF account's application scenarios continue to expand, covering a wide range of areas including cross-border trade settlement, spot and forward foreign exchange transactions, foreign exchange trading, loans, trade financing, offshore lending, foreign debt management, and foreign investment. As of the end of September this year, more than 600 EF accounts had been opened across the island, handling a transaction volume of over 200 billion yuan (28.24 billion U.S. dollars) with 76 countries and regions. 
UK Introductory Statement for the UN HRC Special Session on Sudan

Speech

UK Introductory Statement for the UN Human Rights Council Special Session on Sudan. Delivered by the UK's Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Kumar Iyer.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Kumar Iyer CMG

Published 14 November 2025

Location: Geneva

Delivered on: 14 November 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

Thank you, Mr President.

I deliver this statement on behalf of the Sudan Core Group consisting of Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, and the United Kingdom.

We requested this Special Session because the scale and severity of the crisis in Sudan can no longer be met with silence.

The situation in El Fasher is the latest example of a broader collapse. A collapse of rule of law, protection of civilians, and human dignity.

As we have heard from so many speakers today, what we are witnessing is not just a humanitarian emergency, but a systematic assault on civilians, with consequences that extend far beyond Sudan's borders.

The violence in El Fasher bears the hallmarks of a coordinated campaign against civilians by the Rapid Support Forces. Their advance has been accompanied by credible reports of ethnically targeted killings, systematic sexual violence, and the deliberate use of starvation.

Across Sudan, over 30 million people now require humanitarian assistance. And yet, access to aid is obstructed, and those who try to help are themselves at risk, as we have seen with the appalling targeting of health workers in El Fasher. The scale of need is staggering, but the response has been inadequate.

This Council must not look away. I would hope we can all agree on the need for accountability as well as the end goal of reconciliation. We need an independent account of the past to achieve both these goals. There is no other independent mechanism to achieve that goal.

The key outcome of this resolution is the urgent inquiry to be carried out by the UN Fact-Finding Mission. Its efforts to document and preserve evidence of violations and abuses lay the groundwork for justice. Without it, accountability will remain out of reach, and the cycle of impunity will continue.

We also pay tribute to the Sudanese civil society actors who continue to serve their communities under extraordinary pressure. Their courage and resilience are a reminder of the values this Council is meant to uphold.

Mr President,

The strongest tribute that we can all make to their courage is by adopting today's resolution by consensus.

Let us send a clear signal that the people of Sudan are not forgotten.

Thank you.

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Sudan war: Aid teams plead for access to thousands trapped in El Fasher

14 November 2025 - Just how many people are still trapped in the Sudanese city of El Fasher? That's the burning question for relatives of the many thousands of people believed to still be there, since paramilitary fighters overran the regional capital of North Darfur last month, after a 500-day siege.

That ordeal reduced people to eating peanut shells and animal feed, UN human rights chief Volker Turk said on Friday, before condemning the reported mass killings of civilians, executions based on ethnicity and other atrocities, which are likely continuing.

At the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Mr. Turk told Member States that bloodstains on the ground in El Fasher can be seen from space.

"We warned that the fall of the city to the Rapid Support Forces would result in a bloodbath," he said, before calling for immediate international action to stop the violence at a special meeting convened by concerned Member States. "All those involved in this conflict should know: we are watching you, and justice must prevail," the High Commissioner insisted.

Stranded, seeking help

According to the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, nearly 100,000 people have fled El Fasher and villages close by in the last two weeks alone.

"They are stranded somewhere," said the agency's Head of Sub Office in Port Sudan, Jacqueline Wilma Parlevliet. Families arriving in Tawila, about 50 kilometres from El Fasher have recounted "unimaginable horrors" before and after fleeing the city, she said.

Briefing journalists in Geneva via video, Ms. Parlevliet highlighted widespread reports of rape and sexual violence by escapees and scenes of desperation.

"Parents are searching for missing children, many traumatized due to conflict and the dangerous journey to reach safety. Unable to pay ransoms, families have lost young male relatives to arrests or forced recruitment into armed groups," the UNHCR official explained.

Those hoping to find safety away from El Fasher face ever more dangerous journeys skirting around military checkpoints, some travelling for up to 15 days with limited food and water before reaching shelter in locations including Ad Dabbah in Northern state.

The small town on the bank of the river Nile now houses at least 37,000 people from El Fasher and thousands more are thought to be on their way. Reports also indicate that armed groups are forcibly returning many people to El Fasher where conditions are dire, UNHCR said, citing local sources.

"Thousands of people, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities and the wounded, remain trapped, either prevented from leaving the city or lacking the means or strength to flee," Ms. Parlevliet told journalists.

A crisis of staggering proportions

Sudan is the world's largest displacement crisis with more than 12 million people uprooted inside and outside the country.

For many of those attempting to return home elsewhere in the vast east African nation, the threat of unexploded weapons remains huge, according to the UN Mine Action Service, UNMAS.

It noted that in South Kordofan, West Kordofan, and Blue Nile States alone, 13 million square kilometres of land are contaminated.

"There are many other countries that are affected by explosive remnants of war and landmines...Sudan is very different. Why? Because, war is mainly happening in urban areas," said Sediq Rashid, Chief of UNMAS Sudan, speaking from Port Sudan.

He explained that just within the capital, Khartoum, risks ranged from unexploded and abandoned ammunitions, anti-vehicle mines and anti-personnel mines.

Displaced families are particularly at risk, often settling in unfamiliar locations "without any awareness of past conflicts or contamination", Mr. Rashid continued.

Meanwhile, civilian casualties from mines and other unexploded ordnance continue to rise  "and we know that the cases that are being reported represent only a fraction of the true scale of the harm", he said.

Human rights Council spotlight on Sudanese plight

It's an indication of the gravity of the Sudan crisis that the UN Human Rights Council met on Friday in Special Session, prompted by the dire situation in El Fasher.

The Council has been a key part of the UN and international system since it was established by the UN General Assembly in 2006, precisely to take action to protect people's most fundamental rights when they come under attack, as in Sudan.

Human Rights Council investigations can for instance be referred to the International Criminal Court (ICC). Read our UN News explainer on the ICC here: https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/05/1149981

Specifically, Member States expressed alarm as paramilitary Rapid Support Forces captured the North Darfur capital, El Fasher, ending an 18-month siege late last month. This has been linked to credible accounts of widespread atrocities including summary executions, ethnically motivated killings, sexual violence, abductions and deliberate attacks on civilians.

As is usual during Special Sessions, the UN's top human rights official, Volker Turk, delivers the opening address, followed by leading independent experts, the country or countries concerned and then Member State or States that called for the meeting in the first place.

You can see the whole session here on webtv 38th Special Session of the Human Rights Council | UN Web TV and an edited version of key speakers' remarks here: UN Geneva - Multimedia Newsroom : 38th Special Session of the HRC on Sudan

The Council has followed the Sudan crisis since it erupted in April 2023 following a breakdown in transition to civilian rule, following the overthrow of long-time President Omar al-Bashir. At today's Special Session, Members adopted a resolution requesting independent rights investigators to conduct an urgent inquiry into the El Fasher allegations and report back.

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Today's top news: Sudan, Occupied Palestinian Territory, Ukraine, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Syria

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UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

Sudan

UN Relief Chief meets people displaced by El Fasher violence

The Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher, is in Sudan's Darfur region today, where he met with families who fled brutal violence in El Fasher.

In Tawila, which is hosting hundreds of thousands of people displaced by hostilities in North Darfur State, Mr. Fletcher visited a malnutrition treatment centre run by Save the Children. He met with the mothers and caregivers of malnourished children who recently escaped El Fasher, as well as those who fled the famine-stricken Zamzam displacement camp in April and May.

At another site hosting displaced people in Tawila, the Under-Secretary-General heard from women who survived horrific sexual violence as they fled El Fasher in recent weeks. Mr. Fletcher stressed the need to stop these atrocities and ensure accountability for the perpetrators. He underscored that the international community has a responsibility to protect civilians and prevent this brutality.

Since El Fasher was taken over by the Rapid Support Forces late last month, nearly 100,000 people have fled the city and surrounding villages, according to new figures released yesterday by the International Organization for Migration. Many people remain unaccounted for.

In a video filmed during his travels through Darfur, Mr. Fletcher stressed that humanitarians must be allowed to get life-saving aid to survivors of what he called a "brutal, inhumane war." He noted that the UN has sought and received clear assurances  backed by the international community  that humanitarians can work everywhere they are needed in Sudan.* The Under-Secretary-General said that he has been in contact with the parties to give humanitarians complete access everywhere they need to operate and to protect civilians  including aid workers.

*Donations made to UN Crisis Relief help UN agencies and humanitarian NGOs reach people in Sudan with urgent support.

Occupied Palestinian Territory

Rains take heavy toll on displaced families in Gaza

OCHA says that today's rains have had a harsh impact on people across the Gaza Strip. Initial reports indicate that hundreds of tents and makeshift shelters were flooded. OCHA has also heard of damage to people's personal belongings and thousands of displaced families left fully exposed to the harsh weather  increasing health and protection concerns, especially for older people, those with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.

OCHA notes that many families in Gaza are living in improvised or sub-standard shelters or in low-lying areas that are poorly equipped and prone to flooding.

Partners working to provide shelter support deployed rapid response teams today and for many weeks have been doing everything possible to lessen the impact of anticipated rains on people across Gaza.

Just yesterday, they distributed about 1,000 tents to families in Deir al Balah and Khan Younis. Between Sunday and Wednesday, they provided about 7,000 blankets to more than 1,800 households; some 15,000 tarpaulins to more than 3,700 households; and winter clothing to more than 500 households. That assistance is in addition to other essential items. Over the same four-day span, they collected more than 16,000 tents and 10,000 additional blankets from the crossings to further scale up the response. Since the ceasefire, they have distributed over 15,000 tents so far.

Meanwhile, partners leading on water and sanitation report recent progress in repairing sewage pumping stations, which decreases the risk of sewage overflowing into areas where people are sheltering.

At the same time, partners working on shelter stress that proper flood prevention requires equipment that is not available in Gaza  including tools to drain water away from tents and to clear solid waste and rubble. Millions of urgently needed shelter items remain stuck in Jordan, Egypt and Israel, awaiting approvals to enter Gaza.

Since the ceasefire began on 10 October, the Israeli authorities have rejected 23 requests from nine partners to bring in nearly 4,000 pallets of critical supplies  including tents, sealing and framing kits, bedding, kitchen sets and blankets. Shelter partners say that the main barrier remains restrictive NGO registration rules: In all but two of the 23 rejections, the reason given was that the submitting organizations were not authorized to deliver humanitarian aid into Gaza.

The dire living conditions are also increasing people's exposure to explosive ordnance  with children among those most at risk. Some people have been injured while collecting firewood; others are having to pitch tents near areas suspected of containing unexploded remnants simply because they have no safer options. Since the ceasefire, partners working on mine action have recorded more than 10 injuries from explosive hazards.

This risk is further compounded by Gaza's extremely limited geographical size, which leaves little room to avoid areas suspected of contamination. The density of the population and the proximity of civilian infrastructure to potential hazard zones mean that even minimal contamination can have widespread and devastating consequences.

Since the ceasefire, partners have responded to more than 70 requests for explosive hazard assessments, supported 32 inter-agency missions, and delivered risk education sessions to over 49,000 people across the Gaza Strip. The UN Mine Action Service says it could do much more as soon as teams get access to detectors, spare parts and equipment needed to safely dispose of explosive hazards.

OCHA underscores the need for the full and sustained opening of existing and additional crossings, clearance of further critical items and equipment for entry, and comprehensive facilitation of UN agencies and NGOs' operations.

Ukraine

Humanitarian Coordinator condemns large-scale attack on Kyiv

OCHA reports that a large-scale overnight attack on the Ukrainian capital and hostilities across the country have resulted in dozens of additional civilian casualties.

Local authorities report that at least six civilians were killed and more than 40 others  including two children  were injured in the city of Kyiv and in the Kyiv region. Multiple residential buildings and several health facilities sustained significant damage, while parts of the city of Kyiv were left without heating.

The Humanitarian Coordinator for Ukraine, Matthias Schmale, condemned the attack, noting the ongoing pattern of massive civilian harm caused by such strikes during the cold winter months.

Nationwide, between yesterday and this morning, more than a dozen civilians were killed and 60 injured, according to authorities.

The attacks reflect an alarming increase in civilian casualties. The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine reports that civilian casualties between January to October were nearly 30 per cent higher than during the same period last year, and the toll of casualties for the first 10 months of 2025 has already exceeded the total for all of 2024.

Following the latest attacks, humanitarian organizations  including UN agencies and national and international NGOs  swiftly mobilized to assist people affected in Kyiv and across the country. They are providing hot meals, emergency shelter materials, blankets and hygiene items, as well as psychosocial support. Humanitarians are also registering affected families for cash assistance.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Conditions worsen at displacement sites in Ituri province

OCHA is sounding the alarm over rapidly deteriorating conditions across more than 60 displacement sites in Ituri province, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Nearly 280,000 people in these camps  mostly women and children  are living in increasingly dire conditions.

The situation has sharply worsened since October, when funding cuts forced humanitarian partners to halt their work in managing camps. These activities were essential for the functioning of displacement sites, ensuring access to protection, and coordinating essential services such as safe water, sanitation, healthcare, emergency education and shelter.

Without site managers, displaced families are being left exposed to preventable protection risks, and the equitable, accountable delivery of life-saving aid is being compromised.

OCHA urgently calls on donors and international partners to mobilize resources to restore these life-saving services.

As of the end of October, authorities estimate that more than 1 million people remain displaced in Ituri province.

Syria

Funding shortfalls undermine aid response in southern governorates

OCHA reports that the UN and its humanitarian partners continue to provide humanitarian aid in southern Syria, even as aid operations are severely squeezed by major funding cuts. The UN is working with many of its partners to deliver assistance, reaching more than 350,000 people every month.

The World Food Programme provides about 400 metric tons of flour each week to sustain public bakeries, while UNICEF has helped rehabilitate schools in As-Sweida Governorate. Meanwhile, partners working in water, sanitation and hygiene have been supporting water-trucking in the governorates of Dar'a and As-Sweida. In October alone, they delivered 19,000 cubic metres of potable water and 78,000 litres of fuel to operate essential water and sanitation facilities in both governorates.

Humanitarian organizations and local authorities are pushing to shore up essential services and tackle urgent needs in southern Syria, including repairing the electricity network.

However, OCHA warns that due to limited funding and access challenges, the number of people reached with humanitarian assistance in the governorates of As-Sweida, Dar'a and Rural Damascus in October plummeted by nearly 70 per cent compared to September.

The US$3.2 billion Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan is just over a quarter funded, with nearly $823 million received to date.

OCHA warns that the security situation across the region  which hosts more than 180,000 displaced people  remains unpredictable, with sporadic incidents disrupting mobility and access, particularly in rural areas.

Explosive ordnance poses a serious threat to both host communities and displaced families. In October, partners reported 15 casualties from incidents involving explosive ordnance. Humanitarians continue to clear areas and educate people about the risks, as funding and security conditions allow.

Posted on 14 November 2025

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Colombia acquires Jas Gripen in major export deal

Government Offices of Sweden

Press release from Ministry for Foreign Affairs

Published 15 November 2025

On 14 November, Saab and the Republic of Colombia signed an agreement on the acquisition of 17 JAS Gripen E/F aircraft. Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa attended the signing ceremony in Cali.

What makes Gripen unique is that it combines advanced technology with simplicity and flexibility. Gripen is used by a number of different countries, demonstrating its ability to work in various climates, tactical environments and defence systems.

"The sale of JAS Gripen to Colombia is one of Sweden's largest ever export deals. This deal will strengthen Sweden's security and economy, and demonstrates the clear link between trade and security," says Mr Dousa.

"This is clear evidence of the competitiveness of Sweden's defence industry and high-tech capability. In Gripen, Colombia is getting one of the world's most advanced combat aircraft. I look forward to deepening our defence policy cooperation," says Minister for Defence Pal Jonson.

"Sweden and Colombia enjoy excellent relations that go back a long way. I look forward to continuing to strengthen and expand the cooperation between our two countries," says Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard.

In 2024, Sweden and Colombia celebrated 150 years of diplomatic relations. The countries also signed a bilateral partnership in 2024. Since 2017, Sweden has had a memorandum of understanding with Colombia on cooperation in the field of defence. Now that Colombia is joining the Gripen family, Sweden looks forward to enhancing this defence policy cooperation.

Mr Jonson visited Colombia in July to meet his counterpart and attend the F-AIR aeronautic fair, where Sweden was guest of honour. With impressive support from the Brazilian Air Force, two Gripen E aircraft were present and took part in an air display.

Ms Malmer Stenergard visited Colombia in January to take part in the first high-level dialogue within the framework of the bilateral partnership between Sweden and Colombia.

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Nehemiah Scudder

Nehemiah Scudder stands at the intersection of Robert A. Heinleins biography, his politics, and current controversies about Christian nationalism. Inside Heinleins Future History, Scudder is the hinge on which the United States turns from a messy democracy into a theocratic dictatorship. He begins as a backwoods evangelist, not a general or party boss. Heinlein later described him as a mix of John Calvin, Savonarola, Judge Rutherford, and Huey Long  sharp theology, moral ferocity, populist demagoguery, and the gifts of a stump politician.

Crucially, Scudders influence was not national until a wealthy widow dies and leaves him enough money to build a powerful media operationoriginally a TV station, which functions in the story roughly the way moderns now talk about a national cable or streaming platform. Mass communications plus a population craving certainty equals a path to power. Hes elected President in 2012, and by 2016 elections simply stop; the United States has effectively become a Prophet-ruled theocracy. The regime mixes scriptural language with federal law, uses torture on dissidents, and polices sexuality ruthlesslywhile also being technologically competent enough to maintain a modern security state.

Both the fictional scenario of Nehemiah Scudder and the real-world 2025 situation involving Donald Trump center on allegations of sexual exploitation and the immense political fallout from those claims. Scudder's scandal was a state-sanctioned system of sexual slavery. The "Virgins" are women conscripted for the express purpose of sexually serving the dictator Nehemiah Scudder. This exploitation is a foundational and open secret of his tyrannical regime. The Trump allegations, as of November 2025, centered on knowledge and association. The crisis was ignited by newly released emails from Jeffrey Epstein's estate in which Epstein himself claimed that Trump "knew about the girls" and had "spent hours" with a victim. The scandal is not that Trump created the trafficking ring, but the allegation that he was aware of it and is now trying to conceal his connection.

The Prophet Scudder's abuse of the "Virgins" is a key symbol of his regime's corruption. This reality helps galvanize a revolution, and in the end, the "Virgins" themselves reportedly turn on him, leading directly to the collapse of his government. The Trump allegations created a severe political crisis with the potential to destabilize his presidency. The current situation involves an intense, public political battle, with a bipartisan effort in Congress to force the release of the "Epstein Files" against the White House's wishes. This has created a major rift within the Republican party and threatens to erode his political support.

Scudder's regime was a theocratic dictatorship that maintained power through total control of information, propaganda, and the violent suppression of dissent. The scandal is "secret" only in that no one is allowed to speak of it and survive. As detailed in numerous reports, the Trump administration engaged in an "intense pressure campaign" to stop the full release of the "Epstein Files." This has included direct lobbying of congressional members, reported "vague threats" to Republican holdouts, and procedural delays in Congress to prevent a vote. This effort to keep the files from being released is the central focus of the current political conflict.

The novella If This Goes On is actually about the eventual overthrow of Scudders successors, the way a Freemason-inflected underground movement restores a constitution designed to maximize personal liberty and limit future prophets. From Heinleins own afterward and later commentary, we know he saw Scudder not as uniquely Christian but as one type of fanatical, totalizing ideology. What makes Scudder specifically American, though, is that the ideology is rooted in Protestant revivalism and in what Heinlein calls a latent deep strain of religious fanaticism in the United Statessomething he thought had burst out periodically throughout American history and could, under the right conditions, seize the state itself.

Heinleins Nehemiah Scudder and Gilead (from Margaret Atwoods The Handmaids Tale) are two distinct but related visions of how an American theocracy might arise, what form it might take, and what aspects of American culture make it possible. Although Heinlein wrote decades before Atwood, the two authors are circling around the same underlying anxiety: that the United States contains within itself a set of cultural, religious, and political tendencies that could be exploited by a charismatic religious movement and turned into a regime that fuses scripture with state power. Both Gilead and Scudders theocracy are warnings, not fantasies. They are examinations of an American fault line  one that runs through revivalist religion, gender politics, nationalism, and the perennial human hunger for certainty.

Heinleins Nehemiah Scudder predates Atwoods work by more than forty years, and in many ways he predicted the conceptual blueprint for Gilead. Scudder is, in Heinleins own description, a revivalist preacher with the charisma of a televangelist and the ruthlessness of a political demagogue. His rise to power is tied directly to the emergence of mass media; he becomes dangerous only once he gains access to a national broadcasting network and the funding to turn religious fervor into political machinery. His vision of America is explicitly patriarchal, rigid, punitive, and premised on obedience to Gods chosen leaders. The result is a theocracy that abolishes elections, outlaws dissent, and treats sexual morality as a domain in which the state must intervene with absolute authority. Scudder does not merely corrupt religion or politicshe fuses them into a single system. Under him, the political order is the religious order, and obedience is framed as sacred duty.

Heinleins life and times

Robert Anson Heinlein was born in 1907 in Missouri and came of age in a United States that was still rural, Protestant, and deeply confident about its destiny. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1929, served as a naval officer, and only turned to writing seriously after being medically retired from the Navy in the mid-1930s. His formative adult years were the Great Depression, the rise of European fascism, and World War IIexactly the period when mass politics, mass media, and totalizing ideologies were showing how fast a modern state could slide into dictatorship.

Heinlein started selling fiction just before World War II. If This Goes On was written in 193940, when the dictatorships of Hitler, Stalin, and Franco were very real concerns, and American politics was full of arguments about demagogues on the radio and revivalist preachers with national followings. The figure of Nehemiah Scudder  an obscure preacher who, with money and mass media, becomes President and then First Prophet  is Heinleins very 1940s way of asking: What if America got its own fusion of televangelist, dictator, and populist strongman?

Heinleins politics were famously complicated and shifted over time. Early on he had some New Dealish and even mildly socialist sympathies; later he leaned more libertarian and hawkish, especially during the Cold War. But if there is a through-line, its his obsession with individual liberty and suspicion of concentrated power, whether that power wears a uniform, a party badge, or a clerical collar. Thats what makes the Scudder theocracy so vicious in his Future History timeline: it sacralizes state power. The regime in If This Goes On uses religious authority to justify torture and suppression, precisely the sort of thing Heinlein associated with the worst of European totalitarianism.

Heinlein himself never actually wrote the story of Scudders rise (The Sound of His Wings) or the earlier failed resistance (The Stone Pillow). In the afterword to Revolt in 2100 he openly says he disliked Scudder too much to spend more time in his head and that real life contained enough tragedy already. Thats a revealing note: Scudder was meant as a warning, not as a power fantasy.

In 2025, Heinleins reputation rests more on a handful of big, culture-shaping novels, notably Starship Troopers (1959), famous both for its militaristic civic ethos and for the decades-long argument about whether its a paean to militarism, a warning about it, or both. Stranger in a Strange Land (1961) was the story of Valentine Michael Smith, the human raised by Martians who returns to Earth and starts a quasi-religious movement, has become one of the iconic SF novels of the 20th century. It coined grok, explored sexuality and alternative religion, and was embraced in the 1960s counterculture. And The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress (1966) is a libertarian touchstone about a lunar penal colonys revolution, often cited by tech and space-colonization enthusiasts. Heinlein is recognized as one of the Big Three of classic American science fiction (with Asimov and Clarke), and he racked up multiple Hugos and retrospective Hugos not just for the big novels but also for novellas like If This Goes On.

In the last decade or so, theres been renewed interest in Heinlein because many tech and space-industry figures openly cite him. A recent piece in Le Monde walks through how Elon Musk borrows language and concepts from Heinleinespecially Stranger in a Strange Land and The Moon Is a Harsh Mistressas a kind of ideological scaffolding for Mars colonization, individualist heroism, and distrust of government.

Thats a good example of how Heinleins work is now read: not just as retro SF, but as a reservoir of political and cultural tropes still being mined by very contemporary actors. So: in the public eye, Heinlein is now best known less as the guy who invented Nehemiah Scudder and more as: The novelist who made SF feel grown-up and politically charged; the source of a lot of libertarian, militaristic, and countercultural imagery; and a writer whose worlds are still being debated because they resist being pinned to a single ideology. But Scudder remains one of the sharpest distillations of his worry about religion fused with state power.

Heinleins Future History

Heinleins Future History is not a single novel, nor even a tightly plotted series. It is a meta-framework  a fictional historical timeline stretching from the mid-20th century to several centuries into the future. Heinlein had a habit of treating speculative fiction like architecture: he wanted his readers to feel that each story existed inside a coherent political, technological, and cultural evolution. He originally drafted the timeline for Astounding Science Fiction in 1941, and several later stories were retrofitted into it.

Robert A. Heinleins Future History is best understood not as a conventional series but as a vast conceptual frameworka sprawling, centuries-long imaginary chronology in which dozens of short stories, novellas, and novels are set. Heinlein did not simply write one future; he engineered a timeline. At its core, the Future History is about how American political culture, technological change, and human values evolve under pressure. It is a fictional history of humanitys next several hundred years, beginning with recognizable mid-20th century America and ending with a mature, spacefaring human civilization that has left Earth as just one world among many.

The earliest part of the Future History corresponds more or less to Heinleins contemporary world, a United States that is comfortable, patriotic, and democratic on the surface but shakier underneath. Heinlein portrays a society undergoing strains that are social, technological, and spiritual. Mass media is transforming how Americans understand authority; inequality and dislocation are creating fertile ground for demagogues; and a rising corps of charismatic religious broadcasters is filling the airwaves with simplistic, apocalyptic certainties. This environment is where Heinlein seeds the origins of Nehemiah Scudder, the backwoods preacher who will eventually become the first Prophet of the United States.

Following the fall of the theocracy, the United States enters a radically reconstructed phase, shaped by what Heinlein imagines as the collective trauma of authoritarian rule. This new republic is intentionally decentralized, libertarian in orientation, and constitutionally fortified against any future merger of church and state. Power is fragmented; term limits are strict; freedoms are maximal; and suspicion of centralized authority becomes a cultural reflex. This post-Prophet society encourages entrepreneurial innovation and scientific advancement, setting the foundation for humanitys expansion into space. Heinlein imagines that the memory of tyranny makes Americans acutely sensitive to potential overreach, leading to a culture where technological pioneers, inventors, and private space entrepreneurs play an outsized role. In this period the first lunar colonies, asteroid habitats, and deep-space mining operations emergenot as government projects but as experiments in radical frontier freedom.

As humanity spreads into space, Heinlein uses the diaspora to explore new forms of society. The Moon becomes a bustling frontier, asteroids house libertarian enclaves, and space stations develop their own cultural norms and legal codes. Heinlein had a long-standing fascination with frontiers, and he treats space as the ultimate proving ground of self-reliance. In these stories, the competent manresourceful, technically adept, morally independentbecomes the archetype of the future. Heinleins outer-space societies are microcosms of political experimentation: some are anarchistic, others corporate, still others quasi-utopian. What unites them is a stubborn ethos of autonomy. These societies challenge Earths political authority, sometimes peacefully, sometimes through outright rebellion, creating a future in which humanitys center of gravity shifts decisively off-world. Earth, once the seat of power, becomes a cultural backwater compared to the dynamic frontier worlds.

By the end of the Future History sequence, humanity is no longer bound to Earth or its nationalisms. The timeline ultimately envisions a civilization so technologically sophisticated and widely spread that the old anxietiesreligious tyranny, monolithic states, cultural rigiditybecome relics of a more fragile age. Yet the shadow of Scudder lingers. Heinlein implies that the only reason humanity was able to build such a resilient, decentralized, exploratory culture was because it survived a brush with absolute theological power and learned to fear it. The Scudder theocracy acts as a kind of civilizational vaccine: a brutal lesson that inspires future generations to build better safeguards. In this way, Scudder is not merely a villain but the gravitational center of the entire saga. Without him, the Future Historys libertarian, frontier-driven universe would have no historical justification and no dramatic tension.

The Future History remains influential today because it grapples with questions that have only become more urgent. What happens when media magnifies charismatic populism? How fragile are constitutional norms in the face of religiously infused politics? What new forms of society emerge when technological change outpaces political structures? Can frontier cultures preserve liberty better than nation-states? These were speculative questions in Heinleins time; they are real-world debates in ours. And through the long arc of his imaginary historyfrom the first radio preacher to the first asteroid colonyHeinlein presents not a prediction but a diagnosis: societies rise or fall based on how they balance power, belief, freedom, and technology. That is why the Future History endures as one of the foundational works of modern science fictionnot just a set of stories, but a centuries-long argument about the human future.

If This Goes On

Heinlein never fully narrates Scudders rise  though he left notes and fragments describing it  but he makes clear that Scudder succeeds because the soil is ready. Americans in this early epoch crave certainty, order, and moral revival, and they are newly reachable by mass communication technologies capable of amplifying simple messages to national scale. In Heinleins telling, a wealthy benefactor dies and leaves Scudder the funds necessary to build an empire of radio and television evangelism, the 20th-century precursor to the viralized, nationalistic religiosity we see in modern life.

With Scudders election in 2012, the United States descends into theocratic dictatorship, the darkest and most explosive turning point in the entire timeline. The Scudder era reveals Heinleins deepest anxieties: the surrender of civic institutions to religious absolutism, the collapse of constitutional protections, the fusion of political and spiritual authority into a single unquestionable regime, and the corrosion of personal liberty through the rhetoric of salvation. Under Scudder and his successors, elections cease, dissent is punished with torture, scientific inquiry is muzzled, and sexuality becomes a tightly policed terrain of state power. Heinlein presents the theocracy not as an aberration but as the logical consequence of a democracy that has allowed charismatic religious nationalism to rewrite the social contract. It is not theocracy masquerading as politics; it is politics redefined as divine command. Here Heinlein is working through a distinctly American fear  one that resonates sharply with modern concerns about Christian nationalismthat the same traditions that produced religious freedom can, under pressure, produce religious authoritarianism.

The novella If This Goes On takes place almost a century into the theocratic regime and dramatizes its collapse. Through the eyes of John Lyle, a young guardsman assigned to the Prophets palace, Heinlein shows how totalitarian systems enforce obedience not only through fear but through sacred ritual, architectural awe, and the psychological capture of the devout. Lyles disillusionment is profoundly personal: his love for Judith, one of the Prophets supposedly holy Virgins, exposes the sexual exploitation and moral hypocrisy at the heart of the theocracy. As he flees the palace, he discovers an underground civil resistance centered around the Freemasonsan institution chosen not for its esoteric symbolism but for its continuity with the pre-Scudder republic. These Masons preserve forbidden knowledge, protect dissidents, and plan a constitutional restoration. Heinlein treats revolution not as a spontaneous uprising but as a slow, careful reconstruction of civic virtue. The power of the rebellion lies not in its guns but in its commitment to revive the civic architecture that Scudder destroyed. When the regime eventually falls, it does so more from a failure of legitimacy than from military force. Heinlein stresses that a dictatorship built on divine authority collapses the moment its followers cease to believe in the divinity of its leaders.

The story opens with protagonist John Lyle serving as a young member of the Angelic Corps, basically an elite guard force for the Prophet. Heinlein describes a palace that feels like a mix of medieval court, modern intelligence agency, and megachurch campus. The physical environment itself is propaganda: grandiose ritual spaces, constant reminders of the Prophets divinity, and a hierarchy that mirrors ecclesiastical authority. Politically, this illustrates:

Legitimacy manufactured through architecture and ritual

A security apparatus cloaked in religious symbolism

Obedience sustained by psychological isolation

Lyle is a believer at this stage  earnest, patriotic, and spiritually sincere. Heinlein uses this to show that authoritarian systems do not rely on cynical followers; they rely on people who think they are doing good. The early turning point is Lyles horror at discovering how the Prophet uses the Virgins, ostensibly holy women dedicated to sacred service but, in practice, exploited as concubines. His relationship with one of them, Judith, pushes him to see the dissonance between doctrine and practice. Politically, this moment exposes:

Hypocrisy as a structural feature of theocracy, not a bug

Control of sexuality as a political tool

The difference between private disillusionment and public compliance

The Prophet does not just sin; he uses sacralized power to demand submission. This is Heinleins way of showing how sexual authoritarianism and political authoritarianism are inseparable. Once Lyle and Judith flee the Palace, the story shifts tone. Heinlein describes America under the Prophet: rigid class structures, secret police, heavily censored communication, and pockets of underground resistance. This section demonstrates:

How ideology becomes embedded in the everyday

How dissent survives through parallel institutions

The role of forbidden truth circulated in samizdat-like networks

Scenes involving clandestine meetings, encoded communications, and underground cells show how opposition movements behave under theological authoritarianism: not as organized armies but as distributed communities. Lyles rescue by the Freemasons is one of the more unexpected turns for a modern reader, but in context it works: Heinlein uses the Masons as a symbol of a pre-Scudder America with institutional memory of constitutionalism. Their movement reveals:

Revolutionary legitimacy rooted in historical continuity

Resistance as a moral, not merely political, duty

How clandestine networks can maintain national identity under tyranny

Heinleins Masons are not mystical  theyre organizers, educators, printers, engineers, and strategists. They represent the civic backbone of a republic that the theocracy tried to extinguish. The middle portion of the story reads almost like a manual for overthrowing a dictatorship [a theme to which Heinlein returned in The Moon is a Harsh Mistress]: careful recruitment, compartmentalization, ideological clarity, and the importance of communication technology. Heinlein emphasizes:

Revolutions succeed only when they have constitutional goals

The danger of replacing one charismatic figure with another

The importance of neutralizing propaganda networks

The anti-Prophet conspiracy focuses on systems  how to ensure that even victorious rebels cannot seize absolute power. This is where Heinleins libertarian instincts come through strongly: power must be prevented from corrupting even the well-intentioned. The rebellion succeeds when parts of the military refuse to carry out orders, and the regimes legitimacy collapses in a matter of hours. Heinlein dramatizes a moment seen in many real authoritarian governments:

A brittle regime that appears strong but lacks true loyalty

A tipping point when coercion fails to work

A revolution that succeeds because it is decentralized, not top-down

The final assault on the Prophets Palace is more symbolic than strategic  the real victory occurred when the regime could no longer command obedience. The closing sections show the creation of a new constitution designed explicitly to prevent another Scudder: Strict term limits; Constraints on executive power; Radical separation of church and state; and Mechanisms for decentralizing authority. This is one of the most philosophically important points in Heinleins writing: Freedom survives by engineering the system, not relying on the virtue of new leaders.

Nehemiah Scudder and Gilead

Atwoods Gilead operates on a remarkably similar logic, though it focuses more intensively on gender and the reproduction crisis. The Handmaids Tale exists both as a pair of novels by Margaret Atwood and as a long-running television series, and each medium explores the world of Gilead in distinct but complementary ways. The original 1985 novel is a first-person account from Offred, a woman forced into sexual and reproductive servitude by a theocratic dictatorship that has overthrown the United States. Atwoods writing is intimate and introspective, emphasizing Offreds memories, fears, and subtle acts of resistance. The story ends ambiguously, leaving Offreds fate unresolved and inviting readers to reflect on the power of storytelling, historical interpretation, and authoritarian control.

The sequel, The Testaments (2019), broadens the narrative by introducing multiple points of view, including Aunt Lydia and two younger women whose lives are shaped by Gilead in very different ways. This novel offers a wider perspective on how the regime operates and how it ultimately begins to crumble from within. Compared with the first books quiet tension, The Testaments is more plot-driven and expansive, providing answers to some of the mysteries left by the original novel.

The television adaptation, launched in 2017, begins by closely following the events of Atwoods first book, using its aesthetic, tone, and internal monologues to capture Offreds experience. However, after the first season, the show moves far beyond the novel, creating new storylines, characters, and political arcs. While the books tend to be subtle and psychologically driven, the show is more graphic, emotional, and action-oriented, depicting resistance movements, power struggles, and the broader geopolitical landscape around Gilead. Elisabeth Mosss portrayal of Offred/June has been widely praised for conveying both vulnerability and fierce determination.

Gilead, like Scudders America, grows out of existing cultural seeds: the Puritan legacy, contemporary conservative Christianity, martial authoritarianism, and a society facing ecological and demographic collapse. Atwood is careful to explain that the founders of Gileadmen like Fred Waterforddid not invent their ideology out of thin air. They reassembled it from pre-existing beliefs and resentments already present in American evangelical and patriarchal movements. Like Scudders followers, the Commanders of Gilead use religion as a legitimizing language, but their core interest is power, not faith. Where Heinlein imagines a single charismatic prophet who becomes an American Ayatollah, Atwood imagines a cadre of ambitious men who use religious rhetoric as a strategy for seizing power during a crisis.

The most striking point of convergence between the two theocracies is their obsession with sexuality and gender as instruments of state control. In Heinleins theocracy, the Prophet keeps Virgins in a form of sacred concubinage disguised as religious service. Sexual purity is demanded of followers but exempted for the Prophet himself, whose conduct is shrouded in divine justification. Heinlein sees theocracy as inherently gender-stratified because it converts patriarchy into dogma. Atwood explores the same principle but magnifies it to a national scale: Gilead is constructed as a giant reproductive machine, a society designed to control womens bodies in order to solve a fertility crisis and maintain patriarchal dominance. Handmaids are state-appropriated wombs; Wives are status symbols; Marthas are domestic laborers. Sexual control becomes a state-engineered hierarchy. Both authors grasp that authoritarian religion gravitates toward the regulation of sexuality because sexuality is one of the most intimate sites of human autonomy. A regime that controls reproduction and desire controls the future itself.

Another deep similarity lies in the use of scriptural language as political technology. Scudders speeches, like the Commanders' sermons, rely on carefully curated biblical references used to sanctify obedience. Heinlein foresaw an America in which religious rhetoric and political propaganda merge so tightly that dissent becomes not only treason but heresy. Atwood shows this process at its most refined: slogans like Under His Eye and Blessed be the fruit meld everyday speech with theological surveillance. In both worlds, language becomes a policing tool. Ordinary phrases turn into spiritual commands. The erosion of free expression accompanies the erosion of free thought.

Despite these parallels, the two theocracies differ in important ways, revealing the distinct political sensibilities of their creators. Heinlein, writing during the rise of fascism and in the shadow of mass-media evangelism, imagines a theocracy built around the cult of a single leader. Scudder is not merely a politician with religious backinghe is proclaimed a living Prophet, the vessel of divine will. The regime that follows him is hierarchical but centralized, and its legitimacy depends on the belief that Scudders authority is extra-human. Atwood, writing during the 1980s debates over Christian fundamentalism, the backlash to feminism, and the rise of the Moral Majority, presents a theocracy that is less charismatic and more bureaucratic. Gilead is not ruled by a singular prophet but by a committee of patriarchs who divide power, enforce discipline, and maintain a militarized hierarchy. Where Heinlein fears the charismatic preacher, Atwood fears the disciplined, ideologically committed political class.

The methods of enforcement also differ. Scudders America relies on ritualized public piety, secret police, and the Prophets personal cult, creating a society that is spiritually coerced and emotionally manipulated. Gilead, by contrast, is a surveillance state that uses informants, spies, and gendered violence to sustain obedience. Its cruelty is more systematic and its ideological apparatus more bureaucratic. Heinleins theocracy feels like a revival-tent nightmare scaled up to national size. Atwoods feels like a militarized patriarchy descended from a corporate committee meeting gone totalitarian. Both are plausible extrapolations of American extremism, but they arise from different strands of American culture.

What most binds the two worlds together is the psychological environment that enables them. Both Heinlein and Atwood insist that theocracies succeed not because people are wicked but because they are frightened, exhausted, or desperate for order. In Heinleins narrative, the appeal of Scudder comes during moments of dislocationeconomic upheaval, technological change, cultural confusion. Atwoods Gilead emerges from environmental catastrophe, plummeting birth rates, and social instability. In each case, crisis becomes the justification for radical solutions, and religion becomes the language in which those solutions are sold. The underlying human vulnerability is always the same: people are willing to trade freedom for reassurance, especially when the reassurance is wrapped in sacred authority.

The resistance movements in the two universes also illuminate a shared message about the fragility of democratic institutions. In If This Goes On, the Freemasons preserve the remnants of Americas constitutional order and plot to restore it. They are a reminder that even in darkness, alternative traditions persist, quietly sustaining the possibility of liberation. In The Handmaids Tale, resistance is far more fragmented and uncertainMayday, clandestine smugglers, sympathetic officialsbut similarly rooted in the memory of a freer past. Atwood is less optimistic than Heinlein about whether the old order can be restored, but both authors affirm that authoritarianism never fully extinguishes the human impulse toward rebellion.

Ultimately, Gilead and Scudders America exist in dialogue across time. Heinlein imagines the theocracy as a detoura dark interruption that teaches humanity to build a freer future. Atwood imagines the theocracy as a mirrora reflection of what patriarchy and theological politics can become when taken to their logical end. Heinlein focuses on political engineering and the dangers of charismatic authority; Atwood focuses on gender, embodiment, and the structures of domestic oppression. Yet they are variations on the same theme: that American democracy contains latent theocratic impulses, and that those impulses can be activated under the right conditions.

Christian Nationalism

Christian nationalism today is a contested term, but most definitions describe a belief that the United States (or another nation) is, or should be, explicitly Christian in its identity, laws, and public life. Its not just about personal faith or conservative moral views; its about the political conviction that the state has an obligation to privilege a particular Christian tradition. Recent survey work by PRRI (Public Religion Research Institute), based on more than 22,000 interviews in 2023, suggests roughly three in ten Americans fall into either strong or sympathetic support for Christian nationalist ideas, with big differences by party, race, region, and religious tradition.

Supporters are more likely to say that the U.S. should be declared a Christian nation, that laws should be based on Christian values, and that traditional social hierarchies should be preserved. Within Christian circles themselves, theres an intense internal debate. Some theologians and pastors argue for a softer, cultural Christian nationalism (emphasizing heritage and moral order), while others warn that even soft versions inevitably drift toward coercion and marginalization of religious minorities.

Heinlein, of course, was not writing about contemporary Christian nationalism as we use the term. But Scudder is very clearly an imagined endpoint of these logics: what happens if our nation must be Christian evolves into those who arent our kind of Christian have no place in public life, or even in the country.

Mapping Scudders arc onto contemporary concerns provides a surprisingly clean set of parallels  not because moderns are literally about to get President Scudder, but because Heinlein was laser-focused on structural risks. Scudder became dangerous only when he acquires a media platform and money large enough to translate revival-tent charisma into national reach. Thats eerily recognizable in an era when religious and political entrepreneurs can build huge followings through cable networks, YouTube channels, or social-media ecosystems.

Modern Christian nationalism is heavily mediated: sermons clipped into viral videos, influencers mixing biblical language with partisan messaging, fundraising built around apocalyptic narratives. Heinleins worry is that once a figure commands both a religious following and a media empire, checks and balances become harder to maintain because criticism can always be framed as persecution of the faithful.

Scudders regime explicitly mixes scriptural language with statutory power: biblical sexual morality is enforced by secret police; dissenters are treated not just as political opponents but as heretics. Thats not so far from the more hard-line versions of Christian nationalism that call for civil law to enforce Old Testament punishments or to formally subordinate the constitution to biblical interpretation.

The crucial Heinlein point isnt which theology is used; its that once the state grounds its legitimacy in a single religious interpretation, disagreement becomes treason against God. Thats the logic that makes torture and repression thinkable in If This Goes On and its a logic that surfaces whenever political actors frame their opponents not just as wrong, but as enemies of God.

In Heinleins Future History, Scudders rise is tied to economic shock from new imperialism and space colonization, which creates massive dislocation and inequality at home. When people feel economically and culturally unmoored, a message of return to God and order gains power. Modern Christian nationalism often thrives in regions or communities hit hard by deindustrialization, demographic change, and perceived cultural loss. That doesnt make the theology fake, but it does rhyme with Heinleins view that crisis plus nostalgia plus a charismatic preacher is a dangerous combination.

Heinleins theocracy obsesses over sexual control: the Prophets Virgins, the policing of desire, and the use of sexual purity as a political litmus test. That anticipates how modern religious-political movements often center their energy on questions of gender roles, LGBTQ rights, and reproductive autonomy. Heinleins rebels dont just want a change in leadership; they want explicit constitutional barriers to this kind of moral authoritarianism. The implication is that liberty requires structural protections against any attempt to turn personal morality into state-enforced dogma.

All that said, there are also big differences that keep Scudder = now from being a one-to-one map. Heinlein is writing about a full-blown theocratic dictatorship where elections stop altogether and torture is routine. That is markedly different from democratic systems, however strained, where courts, legislatures, and public opinion still impose real constraints. Christian nationalism today is not a single, unified movement with a prophet at its head. Its a diffuse cluster of organizations, thinkers, and constituencies. Some embrace the Christian nationalist label; others reject it but hold overlapping views; many Christians oppose it outright and argue for a pluralistic constitutional order.

Heinlein was deliberately heightening the scenario for dramatic and didactic effect. Scudder is a thought experiment about how bad it could get if certain trends went unchecked, not a prediction that it must happen. What makes Scudder useful as an analytic lens is not that America is literally on the brink of abolishing elections, but that he dramatizes the failure modes of mixing nationalism, religion, and mass media: persecution framed as piety, dissent framed as blasphemy, and a population taught to love chains because theyre engraved with scripture.

For a modern reader thinking about Christian nationalism, Scudder is handy in three ways:

He forces separating personal faith from political theology. Heinlein doesnt spend much time attacking ordinary believers; his real target is the machinery that weaponizes belief for power. Thats a crucial distinction in todays debates, too. He shows how easily Christian identity can become a proxy for other anxieties. In Future History, the Scudder regime is as much about social control and stability as about salvation. Thats mirrored when Christian nationalism is deployed as a language for ethnic, cultural, or class grievances. He insists that the real defense is structural, not just moral. In If This Goes On, the rebels dont simply swap in a nicer prophet; they re-engineer the constitution to make it harder for any ideologyreligious or otherwiseto monopolize power.

Thats very much in line with modern arguments that the best safeguard against illiberal religious politics is a robust, genuinely neutral rule of law. Heinleins Nehemiah Scudder is an early, sharp fictional exploration of what is now called Christian nationalism  and a reminder that the problem isnt too much religion or too much politics, but the fusion of absolute certainty with state coercion, amplified by modern media and legitimized by national myth.







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China's Shenzhou-21 return capsule touches down on Earth

Ministry of National Defense of the People's Republic of China

Source Xinhuanet

EditorLi Weichao

Time2025-11-14 17:33:03

JIUQUAN, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- The return capsule of the Shenzhou-21 spaceship, carrying the Shenzhou-20 astronauts Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui and Wang Jie, touched down at the Dongfeng landing site in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region on Friday.

At 11:14 a.m.(Beijing Time), the Shenzhou-21 crewed spaceship undocked from the space station combination. At 2:49 p.m., the Beijing Aerospace Control Center issued a return command through the ground station, and the orbital capsule of the Shenzhou-21 spaceship separated from the return capsule.

The brake engine then ignited, and the Shenzhou-21 return capsule separated from the propulsion capsule. The return capsule touched down at 4:40 p.m. at the Dongfeng landing site in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, the China Manned Space Agency said.

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Regular Press Briefing of the Ministry of National Defense on November 7, 2025

Ministry of National Defense of the People's Republic of China

Source Ministry of National Defense

EditorChen Zhuo

Time2025-11-15 00:54:40

On the afternoon of November 7, 2025, Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, Deputy Director-General of the Information Office of the Ministry of National Defense (MND) and Spokesperson for the MND, answered recent media queries concerning the military.

(The following English text is for reference. In case of any divergence of interpretation, the Chinese textshall prevail.)

Journalist: It is reported that the lecturing team interpreting the spirit of the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee is currently touring military units to give lectures. Please tell us more about what the military has done and will do on studying and implementing the spirit of the meeting?

Jiang Bin: The fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee was held at a critical time as China advances toward its second centenary goal. It charts the course and provides the fundamental guidance for the Chinese military to open up new prospects for national defense and military modernization during the 15th Five-Year Plan period. In accordance with the arrangements and requirements made by the CPC Central Committee and the Central Military Commission, the entire military is carrying out extensive activities in various forms to earnestly study and internalize the important speech of President Xi, fully and accurately understand the requirements laid out in the Recommendations of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China for Formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development, and maintain a strong momentum in studying, promoting, and implementing the guiding principles of the session.

It is often said that the worth of any plan lies in its implementation. Following Xi Jinping Thought on Strengthening the Military, we will draft a sound 15th Five-Year Plan for military development that meets the requirements for the modernization of national defense and the armed forces during this period. Efforts will be made to fully integrate the policy to enhance political loyalty of the armed forces in the new era into the planning and development of the military. We will advance key tasks in a coordinated manner and strive for major breakthroughs in areas such as accelerating advanced combat capabilities, modernizing military governance, and enhancing integrated national strategies and strategic capabilities. By doing so, the military can strengthen its strategic capabilities for defending national sovereignty, security, and development interests, achieve the military's centenary goal on schedule, and modernize national defense and the armed forces.

Journalist: According to reports, General Zhang Youxia, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), and Admiral Dong Jun, Minister of National Defense, recently held meetings and talks with the Serbian Defense Minister. What is your comment?

Jiang Bin: The ironclad China-Serbia friendship has withstood the test of changing international landscape. It is underpinned by profound historical ties, solid political trust, extensive common interests, and great affinity between the two peoples. In recent years, under the strategic leadership of the two heads of state, the two militaries have deepened exchanges and cooperation in such areas as high-level visits, personnel training, and joint exercises. The Chinese military stands ready to work with the Serbian side to strengthen strategic communication, deepen practical cooperation, and firmly support each other to advance the building of a China-Serbia community with a shared future in the new era.

Journalist: It is reported that Minister of National Defense Dong Jun attended the 12th ASEAN Defense Ministers' Meeting Plus and the 15th China-ASEAN Defense Ministers' Informal Meeting in Kuala Lumpur recently. What are China's expectations for enhancing defense and security cooperation with ASEAN countries?

Jiang Bin: Connected by geography and mutual interests, China and ASEAN have shared weal and woe and pursued common development. Over recent years, under the strategic guidance of the leaders of China and ASEAN countries, China-ASEAN defense cooperation has steadily expanded in depth and breadth, covering various areas including high-level exchanges, joint training, personnel training, peacekeeping, counter-terrorism operations, medical service, and rescue and disaster relief. There have been many highlights and fruitful results in China-ASEAN defense cooperation.

During the meetings, Minister of National Defense Dong Jun met with defense leaders of ASEAN countries and reached important consensus on deepening defense and security cooperation and safeguarding regional peace and stability. As a good neighbor, good friend and good partner to ASEAN, China firmly supports ASEAN centrality in the regional architecture. We stand ready to work with ASEAN countries to uphold peace, which is our greatest common interests, carry forward the fine tradition of harmonious coexistence, champion dialogue and partnership over confrontation and alliance, and join hands in addressing all kinds of security challenges. With these efforts, we aim to further strengthen China-ASEAN defense and security cooperation, build a closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future, and jointly create a better future for our region.

Journalist: According to media reports, the Philippines continuously rallied countries outside the region to conduct joint patrols and military exercises in the South China Sea. It is clamoring for establishing a so-called task force to deal with China's "coercive" behavior. What's your comment?

Jiang Bin: We hold that defense and security cooperation between relevant countries should neither target or harm the interests of any third party, nor undermine regional peace and stability. The root cause for tensions in the South China Sea is that the Philippine side frequently draws in outside forces to conduct infringement and provocation. The historical context and the rights and wrongs of the South China Sea issue are clear. China rejects any unfounded accusations that propagate false narratives and distort legal facts. We will neither tolerate the blackmailing by those who provoke first and play the victim, nor indulge the provocation by those who stir up troubles in collusion with outside powers. That said, we will not give up efforts to upholding peace, stability and development through coordination. China stands firm and resolute in safeguarding our territorial sovereignty and protecting our maritime rights and interests. We urge the Philippine side to stop undermining joint efforts by regional countries in pursuing peace and development, and cease its infringement, provocation and propaganda. Otherwise, the higher it jumps, the harder it will fall.

Journalist: It is reported that the Taiwan's army recently held a commissioning ceremony for the M1A2T tanks. Lai Ching-te claimed that strengthening Taiwan's defense is aimed at maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, asserting that only strength can bring true peace. Please comment on that.

Jiang Bin: The "Taiwan independence" separatist forces are fully aware of the comparison of military strength across the Strait. Their high-profile theatrics are nothing more than an attempt to embolden themselves and deceive the people in Taiwan. No display of US-made weapons by the troops of Taiwan can undermine the resolve and capability of the People's Liberation Army in safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The desperate resistance by "Taiwan independence" separatist forces will not stop the rolling wheels of the time. We solemnly warn Lai Ching-te and his ilk that seeking "independence" by force is a dead end. Only by completely abandoning their separatist attempts and following the historical trend toward national reunification can bring true peace to Taiwan.

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Wang Yi Holds Talks with Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China

Updated: November 07, 2025 22:11

On November 7, 2025, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia Maka Botchorishvili in Beijing.

Wang Yi said that China and Georgia are good friends and good partners. Georgia is China's first strategic partner in Transcaucasia and also the first country in the Eurasian region to establish a free trade arrangement with China. Over the 33 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Georgia, friendship and cooperation have remained the main themes of bilateral relations. The two sides have upheld mutual respect, mutual trust, and mutual benefit, advancing sound and stable development of bilateral relations and achieving fruitful results in cooperation across various fields. China has always viewed and developed its relations with Georgia from a strategic height and long-term perspective. China is ready to work with Georgia to consolidate strategic mutual trust, carry forward the traditional friendship and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation to promote the greater development of bilateral relations.

Wang Yi noted that the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee was successfully convened, which deliberated over and adopted the Recommendations for the 15th Five-Year Plan. The sound formulation and continuous implementation of the five-year plans constitute an important governance experience of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and a distinctive strength of socialism with Chinese characteristics. China will further deepen reform comprehensively, expand high-standard opening up, accelerate the establishment of a new development paradigm, and advance Chinese modernization on all fronts through high-quality development. China will advance a broader agenda of opening up across more areas and in greater depth and build an open world economy that delivers greater benefits to all peoples. China is ready to work with Georgia to enhance strategic synergy, tap into the potential for cooperation, and expand cooperation in such areas as economy and trade, connectivity, and people-to-people and cultural exchanges. The two sides will work together to further deepen and substantiate high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, share development opportunities, and achieve common prosperity.

Wang Yi emphasized that as important members of the Global South, China and Georgia should strengthen international coordination, jointly uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core, and work together to advocate for an equal and orderly multipolar world and universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization. The world should move forward, not backward, and must not return to the law of the jungle. The Global Governance Initiative put forth by President Xi Jinping has been commended and supported by the Georgian side. China is ready to work with Georgia to jointly implement this important initiative, and better safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the Global South, as well as the common interests of the international community. China welcomes Georgia to join the International Organization for Mediation.

Maka Botchorishvili said that she is pleased to pay her first visit to China. Georgia attaches great importance to its relations with China and looks forward to elevating the bilateral relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership. Georgia will continue to actively participate in Belt and Road cooperation and deepen practical cooperation in areas such as economy, trade, investment, connectivity, science and technology, direct flights, and people-to-people and cultural exchanges. Georgia hopes that the upgraded version of its bilateral free trade agreement with China will be implemented at a faster pace, and that more Georgian products will enter the Chinese market. Georgia firmly adheres to the one-China policy and will support China in all possible ways and on all occasions. Georgia also supports the series of initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping, including the Global Governance Initiative, and is willing to continue strengthening cooperation with China on international and regional affairs to jointly safeguard world peace and stability.

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Wang Yi Holds Talks with Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China

Updated: November 11, 2025 17:05

On November 11, 2025, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway Espen Barth Eide in Beijing.

Wang Yi stated that Norway is one of the earliest countries to recognize and establish diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China. China appreciates Norway's consistent adherence to the one-China principle and regards Norway as an important and stable partner in Europe. Last year, the two countries celebrated the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, and President Xi Jinping met with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre in Beijing, during which both sides agreed to create another splendid 70 years for China-Norway relations. Wang Yi expressed the hope that Norway will continue its positive, stable, pragmatic and rational policy toward China. Both sides should jointly follow through on the important common understandings reached by the leaders of the two countries, respect each other's core interests, accommodate each other's major concerns, continue to pursue openness, win-win cooperation, and mutual achievement, and take China-Norway relations to new heights and achieve new outcomes.

Wang Yi said that currently, the world is experiencing intensified turbulence and transformation, with unilateralism and protectionism actions seriously undermining the international order and rules. Norway has long supported multilateralism and free trade, playing a unique role in promoting solutions to international and regional hotspot issues. China is also a firm advocate, defender, and practitioner of multilateralism. President Xi recently proposed the Global Governance Initiative, whose core tenets are consistent with the purposes and principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter, being widely welcomed and supported by the international community. China is ready to work with Norway to jointly uphold multilateralism, resist "decoupling and disruption of industrial and supply chains", make the international system more just and equitable, and advance world peace, stability, and prosperity.

Espen Barth Eide said that Norway attaches great importance to developing relations with China. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre's successful visit to China last year and the active implementation of the common understandings between the leaders of the two countries are advancing the China-Norway partnership in the right direction. Norway firmly adheres to the one-China policy and is willing to strengthen constructive dialogue and deepen practical cooperation with China to achieve mutual benefit. Norway highly commends China's great achievements in green transition and development as well as its contributions to the green transition of other developing countries. As a leader in Europe's green transition, Norway fully opens its market to Chinese electric vehicles and adopts a zero-tariff policy. Norwegian enterprises are optimistic about the Chinese market and look forward to expanding investment in and cooperation with China. Norway and China share a firm belief in multilateralism and support free trade. Norway values and appreciates China's contributions to world peace as a permanent member of the UN Security Council. The Global Governance Initiative put forth by President Xi Jinping is highly consistent with Norway's vision, and Norway is willing to work with China to jointly uphold the spirit of the UN Charter and support a rules-based multilateral trading system.

Both sides agreed to maintain close exchanges at all levels and uphold the partnership; strengthen the synergy of development strategies, and expand mutually beneficial cooperation in such areas as trade, maritime affairs, green development, and innovation; maintain openness and cooperation and foster a stable business environment for enterprises from both countries; enhance dialogue and communication, and promote the sound, stable, and sustainable development of China-Europe relations; and jointly practice multilateralism and free trade, and address climate change and other global challenges.

The two sides exchanged views on recent developments in the Middle East. Both sides welcomed the ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages and all those held captive, and improved humanitarian access, and emphasized the key role of the United Nations and the importance of adhering to the humanitarian principle. Both sides agreed that the ceasefire agreement should be earnestly implemented and that the international community, especially countries with influence over parties to the conflict, should provide necessary support for achieving a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire. The two foreign ministers emphasized that the Palestinian people should play a leading role in all matters concerning their national future and destiny.

Both sides expressed concern over Israel's continued expansion of settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, which have been deemed illegal by the UN Security Council and the International Court of Justice. The two sides agreed that support should be given to strengthen the authority and governance capabilities of the Palestinian Authority. The ceasefire in Gaza must be linked to a political process aimed at implementing the two-State solution, enabling Israelis and Palestinians to live together in peace, security, and dignity. The two sides also discussed other hotspot issues in the Middle East and agreed to maintain communication and enhance cooperation through multilateral organizations.

The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis and other issues of common concern.

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China, Spain look to bolster ties amid evolving global dynamics

Ministry of National Defense of the People's Republic of China

Source Xinhuanet

EditorZhang Yajie

Time2025-11-13 08:22:08

BEIJING, Nov. 12 (Xinhua) -- China stands ready to work with Spain to forge a comprehensive strategic partnership with greater strategic determination, dynamism and global influence, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Wednesday.

Xi made the remarks when meeting with King Felipe VI of Spain, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing. It marks King Felipe VI's first state visit to the country after his enthronement, and the first visit by a Spanish monarch to China in 18 years.

After the meeting, the two heads of state jointly witnessed the signing of 10 cooperation documents in trade and economy, science and technology, and education, among others.

Following Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's three visits to China in three years, King Felipe VI's visit throws the weight of royal diplomacy into Spain's relations with China, said Felix Valdivieso, chairman of IE University's China Observatory.

The European country is shifting toward a more long-term, stable and strategically visionary policy on the world's second-largest economy, which will benefit Spanish businesses and subsequently enhance the competitiveness and innovative vigor of the Spanish economy, Valdivieso said.

A VISIT OF GREAT SIGNIFICANCE

Welcoming King Felipe VI to China, Xi noted that both China and Spain have profound historical and cultural heritage. Over the past 50-plus years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, the two sides have always viewed and developed bilateral relations from a strategic height and long-term perspective, respected and supported each other, and contributed to each other's success, Xi said.

This has set a model of pursuing amicable ties and common development by countries with different history, culture and social systems, and played an important role in promoting openness and cooperation in the world and upholding international fairness and justice, Xi said.

Hailing the Spanish royal family's remarkable contributions to developing the China-Spain relationship, Xi said as the two countries celebrate the 20th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership, King Felipe VI's state visit is of great significance to the further advancement of the friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

King Felipe VI said that it is a great pleasure to pay a state visit to China at the 20th anniversary of the Spain-China comprehensive strategic partnership, and that Spain and China enjoy longstanding friendly exchanges. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties, the two countries have consistently trusted and respected each other and worked together for joint development and prosperity, he said.

King Felipe VI said China has accomplished globally recognized and admirable achievements in its development, adding that its successful experiences, especially in poverty alleviation and green and low-carbon development, offer great inspiration.

The Spanish government is firmly committed to the one-China policy, supports China in safeguarding its territorial integrity, and stands ready to work with China to advance the comprehensive strategic partnership to bring more benefits to the two peoples and contribute even more to global peace and stability, the king said.

BOOSTING PRAGMATIC COOPERATION

Underscoring that China values the traditional friendship with Spain and its unique role in international and regional affairs, Xi said it is important for the two sides to continue supporting each other firmly, maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, strengthen strategic guidance, and ensure that the bilateral relationship always advances along the right path.

Calling on the two sides to further advance practical cooperation, Xi said China will import more quality products from Spain, and the two sides should explore the potential of cooperation in such emerging areas as new energy, digital economy and AI, expand mutual investment and build more signature projects.

He said the two sides could also tap into complementarity and jointly explore third-party markets such as Latin America.

Xi said the two sides need to strengthen people-to-people connectivity, and enhance exchanges in culture and education, and support each other in the operation of cultural and language institutions in each other's country. He said China will continue to extend the visa-free policy to Spain to facilitate people-to-people exchanges and bring the two peoples closer.

King Felipe VI said investment by Chinese enterprises has strongly boosted Spain's economic growth and green transition. Spain is willing to maintain close exchanges with China, in order to seize the important opportunities presented by China's 15th Five-Year Plan, and deepen cooperation in such areas as economy and trade, industry, science and technology, and green energy.

King Felipe VI appreciated China for extending the visa-free policy, and expressed the readiness to strengthen cultural, linguistic and tourism exchanges in order to enhance the friendship between the two peoples.

CHAMPIONING MULTILATERALISM

Pointing out that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, Xi said the world today is now in a new period of turbulence and transformation, and the pursuit of peace and development remains an arduous task.

"I have put forward the building of a community with a shared future for humanity for the hope that countries could rise above differences in social systems and ideologies, build consensus through dialogue and consultation, and work together to turn the aspirations of people around the world for a better life into reality," Xi said.

China stands ready to work with Spain to support the UN in playing a central role in international affairs, safeguard the rules of free trade and the international economic and trade order, and make global governance more just and equitable, for the building of a community with a shared future for humanity, he said.

Noting that history can only move forward, and does not allow for going backward, King Felipe VI said Spain and China share highly similar philosophies on many international affairs, and both support multilateralism and the settlement of disputes through dialogue and consultation.

Spain highly appreciates the four major global initiatives put forward by President Xi, and is going to work with China to respond to uncertainties in the international situation with a view to upholding international trade order and promoting the steady development of the global economy, the king said.

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DAMASCUS, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Israeli incursions in southern Syria have surged in recent weeks, with more than 30 recorded in the first half of November, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Saturday.

The Britain-based monitoring group said Israeli troops carried out ground penetrations, detained civilians and soldiers, bulldozed roads and farmland, and set up temporary military checkpoints in Quneitra and Daraa provinces. It called the activity an "unprecedented surge" and noted it occurred "in the absence of any formal response" from Damascus.

The Observatory said the raids and daily violations underscore "mounting security challenges along the southern border," where Israeli forces have increased their presence since late 2024.

Israel has warned that southern Syria must not become "another southern Lebanon" and has threatened "painful blows" against armed groups or Syrian forces approaching the frontier. In mid-2025, the Israel Defense Forces established at least nine permanent outposts inside Syrian territory and created a 15-kilometer "zone of control."

The escalation intensified in July after Israeli strikes and raids followed clashes in the Druze-majority province of Sweida. Israel said it would continue to "operate forcefully" until "perceived threats" were neutralized.

Despite condemnation from the United Nations, Egypt, and Turkiye over violations of Syrian sovereignty, Israeli officials maintain their actions are defensive and say Syrian authorities lack full control of the south. 
Chinese PLA Navy's First Type 076 Amphibious Assault Ship "Sichuan" Conducts First Sea Trial

Ministry of National Defense of the People's Republic of China

Source China Military Online

EditorWang Xinjuan

Time2025-11-14 09:00:00

By Zhang Maoxuan and Qian Xiaohu

SHANGHAI, Nov. 14 -- At about 9 a.m. on November 14, 2025, China's first new-generation amphibious assault ship, the Sichuan (Hull 51), set sail from the Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard in east China's Shanghai City, heading for the relevant sea areas to carry out its first navigation test mission. This sea trial will mainly test and verify the reliability and stability of the power, electrical and other systems of the amphibious assault ship Sichuan.

It is learned that since its launch in December 2024, the construction of the Sichuan has been steadily advancing as planned. It has successfully completed mooring tests and equipment installation and debugging, and has met the technical conditions for sea trials.

China's first Type 076 amphibious assault ship Sichuan, has a full-load displacement of over 40,000 tonnes and features a dual-island superstructure along with a full-length flight deck. It incorporates the innovative electromagnetic catapult and arrestor technologies, enabling it to carry fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and amphibious equipment.

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4th China-ASEAN Mid-and-junior Level Officer Exchange to be held in China: Defense Spokesperson

Ministry of National Defense of the People's Republic of China

Source China Military Online

EditorChen Zhuo

Time2025-11-14 18:21:04

BEIJING, Nov. 14 -- The 4th China-ASEAN Mid-and-junior Level Officer Exchange will be held in China from November 17 to 24, 2025, said Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense (MND), at a press briefing on Friday.

The event, which is organized by the International Studies College of China's National University of Defense Technology (NUDT), invites mid-and-junior level officers from ASEAN member states to attend.

During the event, participants will visit military academies and units, education bases for China's revolutionary history, and high-tech enterprises in Nanjing, Hangzhou, Shanghai and Kunshan cities.

They will also have seminars on topics such as "commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War: Asia's experience in rebuilding peace" and "building a peaceful home in a changing and turbulent world".

"The Exchange offers a platform for mid-and-junior level officers from China and ASEAN countries to share views and learn from each other, enhance mutual understanding and friendship, and join hands in building a closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future," said the spokesperson.

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President Xi Jinping Meets with King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua of Thailand

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China

Updated: November 14, 2025 19:05

On the morning of November 14, 2025, President Xi Jinping met at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing with King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua of Thailand, who is on a state visit to China.

President Xi noted that King Vajiralongkorn makes China the first major country for his state visit and thus becomes the first king of Thailand to visit China since the establishment of diplomatic relations, which fully demonstrates the high importance that King Vajiralongkorn attaches to China-Thailand relations and the deep bilateral friendship of "Jeen Thai Phee Nong Gan." President Xi expressed condolences over the passing of Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother not long ago. He said that the Thai royal family has historically profound relations with China, and the Chinese side deeply appreciates its important contributions to promoting the China-Thailand friendship. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of China-Thailand diplomatic relations and the "Golden Jubilee of China-Thailand Friendship." Over the past half-century, facing the changing international landscape, China and Thailand have always worked hand in hand and helped each other, and have truly been good relatives, good friends and good partners. Standing at a new historical starting point, I am ready to work with King Vajiralongkorn to usher in greater progress in the building of a China-Thailand community with a shared future in the next 50 years, and jointly write a brand new chapter of China-Thailand friendship.

President Xi pointed out that the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China deliberated over and adopted the recommendations for formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan, which places the main focus on advancing high-quality development and expanding high-standard opening up. Thailand is also at a critical stage of its national development and revitalization. China is ready to enhance strategic synergy with Thailand, steadily advance cooperation on major projects such as the China-Thailand railway, increase imports of Thailand's high-quality agricultural products, and expand cooperation in emerging areas including artificial intelligence, digital economy, aviation and aerospace, so that more cooperation benefits can be delivered to both peoples. It is important to strengthen cultural connectivity, promote people-to-people exchanges, and bring the two peoples closer through more visits. China stands ready to actively support public welfare programs of the Thai royal family, increase exchanges on poverty alleviation experience, and help Thailand improve the well-being of its people.

King Vajiralongkorn said it is a great pleasure to pay a state visit to China. It has been many years since my last visit to China, and tremendous changes have taken place in this country which is now modern and beautiful. I express congratulations on China's significant achievements in economic and social development. Thailand and China have close friendship, extensive people-to-people exchanges, and broad-based, in-depth and mutually beneficial cooperation. The cooperation between Thailand and China is cooperation between brothers. Thailand would like to learn from China's development experience, expand cooperation with China across various fields, and strengthen people-to-people ties, so that the Thailand-China friendship will have deeper roots in the heart of our peoples.

Prior to the meeting, President Xi Jinping and his wife, Madame Peng Liyuan, held a welcoming ceremony for King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana at the square outside the Eastern Entrance of the Great Hall of the People.

As King Vajiralongkorn arrived, a guard of honor lined up in salutation. President Xi and King Vajiralongkorn stepped onto a stand, after which a military band played the national anthem of China and the royal anthem of Thailand as a 21-gun was fired in Tiananmen Square. King Vajiralongkorn reviewed the guard of honor of the People's Liberation Army and watched the march-past in President Xi's company.

President Xi and Madame Peng hosted a welcoming banquet for King Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida in the evening.

Wang Yi was present at the above events.

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US officials fear China could acquire F-35 technology via Saudi: Report

Iran Press TV

Friday, 14 November 2025 7:10 AM

US officials have reportedly raised concerns that the sale of F-35s to Saudi Arabia could lead to the fighter jets' technology reaching China.

The New York Times reported on Thursday that after studying the US deal to sell F-35 stealth warplanes to Saudi Arabia, Pentagon officials warned that Beijing could gain access to the information, either through espionage or security ties to Riyadh.

Those risks were outlined in an assessment compiled by the US Defense Intelligence Agency, which is a part of the Department of War, the report said.

he proposed sale could also raise questions about whether the US would be compromising Israel's military edge as the regime is the only possessor of F-35 jets in West Asi, tt further said.

The US and Saudi Arabia have recently been trying to finalize an agreement, in which American weapons manufacturers would sell 48 F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia worth billions of dollars.

This comes ahead of next week's meeting between US President Donald Trump and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House.

In preparations for the meeting, Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman visited Washington, where he held talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, War Secretary Pete Hegseth and White House envoy Steve Witkoff.

"We reviewed the Saudi-US relations and explored ways to bolster our strategic cooperation," Prince Khalid said in an X post.

During Trump's visit to Saudi Arabia back in May, the United States and Saudi Arabia announced a $142 billion arms deal, with bin Salman vowing to boost the kingdom's investments in America to $1 trillion.

In 2020, the first Trump administration agreed to sell 50 F-35s to the United Arab Emirates as part of a deal to get the Persian Gulf Arab country to normalize relations with Israel.

In 2021, however, the administration of US president Joe Biden suspended the deal to review it, mainly due to concerns that China could acquire the F-35's technology.

Later, Washington gave Abu Dhabi a list of security demands, which Emirati officials rejected leading to the breakdown of the agreement.

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Premier of DPRK Cabinet Meets Lao Foreign Minister

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK

Pyongyang, November 14 (KCNA) -- Pak Thae Song, premier of the Cabinet of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, met Thongsavanh Phomvihane, foreign minister of the Lao People's Democratic Republic who paid a courtesy call on him, at the Mansudae Assembly Hall on Nov. 13.

Present there were Pak Sang Gil, vice-minister of Foreign Affairs of the DPRK, and other officials of the Foreign Ministry and the party of the Lao foreign minister.

The talk proceeded in a friendly atmosphere. -0-

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Germany - Standard Missile 6 Block I and Standard Missile 2 Block IIIC

NEWS | Nov. 14, 2025

Media/Public Contact: T_Outreach_PM@state.gov

Transmittal No. 25-74

WASHINGTON, November 14, 2025 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Germany of Standard Missile 6 Block I and Standard Missile 2 Block IIIC and related equipment for an estimated cost of $3.5 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress.

The Government of Germany has requested to buy up to one hundred seventy three (173) Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) Block I missiles and up to five hundred seventy seven (577) Standard Missile 2 Block IIIC missiles, along with the non-MDE inclusion of MK 21 and MK 13 Vertical Launch System (VLS) missile transport, storage and launch canisters into which are installed SM-6 Block I and SM-2 Block IIIC missiles, respectively. The following additional non-MDE items will also be included: MK 21 Mod 3 Vertical Launch System (VLS) canisters; MK 13 Mod 1 VLS canisters; missile and support test equipment component parts; engineering, integration, and test (EI&T) materiel and support required to produce SM-6 Block I and SM-2 Block IIIC missiles; special test and handling equipment; training and training equipment aids; technical publications data; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services; related studies and analysis support; and product life cycle sustainment support. The total estimated cost is $3.5 billion.

This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a NATO Ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in Europe.

The proposed sale will improve Germany's capability to meet current and future threats by providing integrated air and missile defense capabilities deployable from their future Aegis Weapon System equipped F127 class surface combatants, bolstering Germany's capacity to present a credible deterrence to regional strategic competitors. The proposed sale will also improve Germany's ability to operate alongside U.S. and Allied naval forces in facing a full spectrum of maritime threats. Germany will have no difficulty absorbing these missiles into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractor will be RTX Corporation, with locations in Camden, AR; Tucson, AZ; and Huntsville, AL. At this time, the U.S. Government is not aware of any offset agreement proposed in connection with this potential sale. Any offset agreement will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor.

Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional U.S. Government or contractor representatives to Germany.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

The description and dollar value are for the highest estimated quantity and dollar value based on initial requirements. Actual dollar value will be lower depending on final requirements, budget authority, and signed sales agreement(s), if and when concluded.

All questions regarding this proposed Foreign Military Sale should be directed to the State Department's Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, Political-Military Affairs Outreach, at T_Outreach_PM@state.gov.

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German Military Could Use 'Randomized' Selection If Volunteers Fall Short

Sputnik News

20251114

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - A bill on modernizing military service in Germany, finalized by the Christian Democratic Union and Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU) coalition, proposes using randomized selection to fill the Bundeswehr's ranks in the event of a shortage of volunteers.

This statement was made on Thursday by Alexander Hoffmann, chairman of the CSU parliamentary faction's state group, following coalition talks.

"As a last resort, it was possible to opt for the principle of randomness," Hoffmann said.

The politician added that the coalition had decided to abandon the use of the words "draw" or "lottery."

"Everyone is talking about a draw right now. But it is preferable to talk about the principle of randomness, in accordance with legal advice," he said.

Meanwhile, Hoffmann noted that the proposed "random" system is not considered the only way to replenish the Bundeswehr's ranks.

The German armed forces are currently aiming for 203,000 personnel, but their actual strength has been falling for two years in a row, reaching only about 182,000 by March.

 Sputnik

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IAEA's new report focuses on Iran's uranium stockpile, avoids Israeli-US aggression

Iran Press TV

Friday, 14 November 2025 9:39 AM

IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi has released a new report on Iran's nuclear program ahead of the Board of Governors meeting in Vienna, focusing on uranium stockpile estimates while avoiding comment on recent illegal attacks against Iranian nuclear facilities.

Press TV has obtained the unpublished report, dated November 12, which will be presented at the quarterly Board of Governors meeting beginning next week in Vienna.

It will be the first such session since the formal phase-out of the JCPOA, meaning Iran's nuclear file will now be addressed solely under the NPT Safeguards Agreement rather than the defunct 2015 accord.

The report covers the period since the director general's last assessment in early September and revisits the fallout from the June aggression on Iranian nuclear facilities by Israel and the United States.

The aggression led Tehran halt all cooperation with the agency, citing "politically motivated" resolutions and the IAEA's refusal to condemn terrorist attacks on its nuclear infrastructure and personnel.

Grossi has maintained his earlier stance; on September 8 he declined to denounce the assassinations of Iranian nuclear scientists during the June attacks, stating, "I believe this is not something that, as director general of the IAEA, falls within my purview."

The new report similarly avoids comment on the June 13 Israeli aggression or the subsequent US bombing of Iranian nuclear sitesactions Tehran maintains violated the UN Charter, international law, and the NPT.

The director general instead focuses on verification issues that have arisen since Iran lawfully suspended cooperation in late June due to internal legislation and security concerns.

The report includes the agency's estimate of Iran's enriched-uranium stockpile as of June 13, shortly before cooperation was suspended. The IAEA assesses the total to be 9874.9 kg, of which 9040.5 kg is in the form of UF6.

This includes "2391.1 kg of uranium enriched up to 2% U-235; 6024.4 kg of uranium enriched up to 5% U-235; 184.1 kg of uranium enriched up to 20% U-235; and 440.9 kg of uranium enriched up to 60% U-235."

The report notes that the figure represents an estimate based on "information previously provided by Iran, previous Agency verification activities and estimates based on the past operating records of the relevant declared facilities."

Iran says its nuclear materials remain under rubble from recent attacks. "What relates to our nuclear materials is all under the debris caused by attacks on the bombed facilities," Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on September 11.

"Whether these materials are accessible or not, and the status of some of them, is currently being evaluated by the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran," he added.

Araghchi said that once this evaluation is complete, the report will be submitted to Iran's Supreme National Security Council, which will decide on any subsequent actions considering Iran's security concerns.

Despite the disruptions caused by the June attacks, the new IAEA report stresses that safeguard obligations remain unchanged.

It states: "The Director General has made clear to Iran that it is indispensable and urgent to implement safeguards activities in Iran in accordance with the NPT Safeguards Agreement, which remains in force, and that its implementation cannot be suspended under any circumstances."

At the same time, the agency acknowledges that "the military attacks on Iran's nuclear facilities have created a situation which requires Iran and the Agency to cooperate constructively to implement safeguards."

The Cairo agreement, reached on September 9 between Iran's foreign minister and Grossi, is referenced as the basis for re-establishing some degree of procedural clarity.

According to the report, "the Cairo agreement provides a common understanding of the procedures for Agency inspections, notifications and safeguards implementation in Iran under the prevailing circumstances. While taking into consideration Iran's concerns, these procedures remain in line with the relevant provisions of the NPT Safeguards Agreement."

The report notes that Iran "has begun to facilitate" accounting reports and Design Information Questionnaire (DIQ) updates for facilities unaffected by the US-Israeli attacks. It also urges reports on affected sites.

Grossi claimed his readiness "to work with Iran without delay in order to achieve non-mutually exclusive objectives: full compliance with the NPT Safeguards Agreement and with the recently adopted Iranian domestic legislation."

On June 25the day after Iran's retaliatory operations halted the 12-day aggression  the country's parliament unanimously passed legislation suspending all cooperation.

The move was rooted in concerns that IAEA resolutions, particularly the June 12 resolution by the Board of Governors, paved the way for the Israeli aggression.

Talks with the IAEA resumed in September, but Iran warned that the decision by Britain, France, and Germany to trigger the UN "snapback" mechanism after the Cairo agreement would create "new conditions" rendering that framework void.

The agency has issued no criticism of the E3 decision, even as it continues to insist that Iran uphold its safeguards obligations under all circumstances.

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Did A Promo Video Expose An Underground Iranian Base?

By Kian Sharifi November 14, 2025

What You Need To Know

 Op-Sec Failure: An Iranian civilian contractor that specializes in manufacturing blast-resistant doors posted promotional videos on social media that inadvertently revealed multiple fortified tunnel construction projects apparently linked to Iran's army.

 Water Crisis Becoming Critical: Iran is facing a severe water crisis caused by years of mismanagement and drought, forcing authorities to ration water in Tehran. Iranian President Masud Pezeshkian has warned that parts of the city may need to be evacuated or the capital relocated. Kaveh Madani, director of the Canadian-based United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment, and Health, has told RFE/RL's Radio Farda that the warnings by the authorities didn't go far enough. Have a look at satellite images of key lakes and reservoirs across Iran to see the extent of the country's crippling drought crisis.

 Iran Ramps Up Construction At Underground Nuclear Facility: Satellite images reveal that while Iran's previously targeted nuclear sites remain inactive, construction has ramped up at a new underground facility near Natanz. Experts say the site, buried beneath Pickaxe Mountain, was initially intended for centrifuge assembly but may now be part of a broader nuclear project. Radio Farda spoke with Joseph Rodgers of the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), who analyzed the images.

The Big Issue

Instagram Op-Sec Fail

The contractor's videos on Instagram showcased the installation of reinforced tunnel doors, blast-proof chambers, and underground storage facilities designed to withstand aerial or missile strikes.

The footage appeared to depict entrances to tunnels that open-source analysts believe are large enough to house drones or serve as munitions storage facilities.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), which has for years boasted about its underground "missile cities," was quick to deny any links to the facilities. A close inspection of the videos, however, reveals the insignia of the army -- not the IRGC -- on a banner installed in the tunnels.

Why It Matters: These types of hardened underground facilities are commonly associated with Iran's ballistic missile and drone programs, as well as protection systems for key military assets.

The inadvertent disclosure offers a rare public glimpse into Iran's expanding network of fortified military infrastructure -- information that would normally be closely guarded.

The timing is particularly sensitive given the heightened regional tensions and recent strikes on Iranian facilities.

Iran has been investing heavily in underground facilities to protect strategic assets from potential Israeli or US airstrikes, including sites for drone and missile production.

The contractor's social-media promotion essentially handed intelligence analysts detailed views of construction techniques, door specifications, and facility layouts that would normally require extensive covert intelligence gathering.

What's Being Said: The videos sparked immediate debate within Iran about security vulnerabilities and operational security failures. But aside from the IRGC statement distancing itself from the breach, there has been no official comment -- not even from the army.

On X, questions were raised about the apparent lapse in security, with some attributing it to "rampant corruption".

Others, including military commentators, wondered if the new blast-resistant doors are really strong enough to do what they're supposed to.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/farda-briefing-iran- underground-base-contractor-leak/33590955.html

Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Pezeshkian congratulates Iraqi PM on successful elections

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Nov 14, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- President Masoud Pezeshkian has hailed Iraq's recent parliamentary elections, describing the peaceful and dignified process as a valuable achievement that strengthens the dignity and greatness of the Iraqi nation.

Pezeshkian made the remarks during a phone conversation with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani on Friday.

Pezeshkian expressed hope that in the coming period, bilateral relations and cooperation between Tehran and Baghdad would expand and deepen further.

The president congratulated al-Sudani on his victory, emphasizing that the successful elections elevate the credibility and stature of the "brotherly Iraqi nation."

In response, the Iraqi prime minister thanked President Pezeshkian for his call and fraternal congratulations, describing them as a testament to the depth of sincere ties and the attention of the Iranian people to Iraq's prosperity and success.

9417

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan attends a ceremony in Adiyaman province, Turkiye, Nov. 15, 2025. Erdogan on Saturday attended a ceremony in Adiyaman province to deliver newly built post-quake homes, reaffirming the government's commitment to supporting survivors of the 2023 earthquakes. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua)

ANKARA, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday attended a ceremony in Adiyaman province to deliver newly built post-quake homes, reaffirming the government's commitment to supporting survivors of the 2023 earthquakes.

Erdogan said that 38,157 new houses and workplaces had been delivered in Adiyaman over the past two years.

Across the 11 provinces affected by the February 2023 quakes, the government has handed over 350,178 housing units to eligible beneficiaries. Erdogan said the target is 453,000 units by the end of the year.

On Feb. 6, 2023, two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.7 and 7.6 struck southern Turkiye, killing more than 53,000 people in the country and leaving hundreds of thousands homeless.

According to Turkiye's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority, more than 715,000 buildings were affected, with 200,000 destroyed or too damaged to repair. Most were civilian homes, requiring the construction of 680,000 new housing units. 

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan attends a ceremony in Adiyaman province, Turkiye, Nov. 15, 2025. Erdogan on Saturday attended a ceremony in Adiyaman province to deliver newly built post-quake homes, reaffirming the government's commitment to supporting survivors of the 2023 earthquakes. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan attends a ceremony in Adiyaman province, Turkiye, Nov. 15, 2025. Erdogan on Saturday attended a ceremony in Adiyaman province to deliver newly built post-quake homes, reaffirming the government's commitment to supporting survivors of the 2023 earthquakes. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua)
Iran vows to 'strengthen cordial ties with Iraq in all areas' after elections

Iran Press TV

Friday, 14 November 2025 9:27 AM

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has congratulated Iraq on holding a peaceful parliamentary election earlier this week, saying it serves as a "significant step" towards enhancing the country's democratic process.

Araghchi made the remarks in an X post on Friday, three days after Iraqis voted to elect members of their 329-seat parliament.

"Congratulations to the brotherly people and government of Iraq for successful management of peaceful parliamentary elections," he said.

"The election was a significant step forward in consolidating the democratic process in Iraq and in safeguarding the sovereignty and security of the nation."

Araghchi also expressed Tehran's determination to further strengthen cordial relations with Baghdad in all areas of mutual interest.

Iraq's electoral commission announced a voter turnout of 56.11 percent in the election, saying Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani's Reconstruction and Development Alliance garnered the most votes.

Sudani said the election turnout was "clear evidence of another success" that reflected the "restoration of confidence in the political system."

Emphasizing that "the next phase aims to formulate a new government capable of representing its programs," he noted that his coalition is "open to all parties without exception."

Iraq is currently recovering from decades of war, occupation, and terrorist attacks.

The United States invaded Iraq in 2003 based on false claims about Baghdad possessing weapons of mass destruction, leaving a trail of destruction, death, and chaos in the Arab country.

The US and its allies re-launched a military campaign in 2014 to supposedly fight off Daesh. The terrorist group had emerged in Iraq and neighboring Syria earlier as Washington was running out of excuses to extend its meddling in the West Asia region or enlarge it in scale.

The US military claimed to be ending its combat mission in Iraq in 2021, but said it would retain some 2,500 troops in the country as alleged advisors, although, Baghdad and its allies had decisively defeated terrorists with the help of Iran in late 2017.

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Lieutenant General Syed Aamer Raza, Chief of General Staff (CGS) Pakistan Army, called on General Fayyadh Bin Hameed Al-Rowaily, Chief of General Staff, Royal Saudi Armed Forces, at Riyadh.

Inter Services Public Relations Pakistan

Rawalpindi - November 14, 2025

No PR-361/2025-ISPR

Lieutenant General Syed Aamer Raza, Chief of General Staff (CGS) Pakistan Army, called on General Fayyadh Bin Hameed Al-Rowaily, Chief of General Staff, Royal Saudi Armed Forces, at Riyadh.

During the meeting, matters of mutual strategic interest were discussed, with a special focus on strengthening bilateral defence cooperation, enhancing interoperability and advancing collaboration under the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA).

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further deepening the long-standing fraternal ties between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, contributing towards regional peace, stability and self-reliance.

A Special Meeting of the Pakistan-KSA Bilateral Defence Industrial Forum was also held in Riyadh. Pakistan tri-services delegation was led by Lieutenant General Syed Aamer Raza, CGS Pakistan Army, while the Saudi side was headed by H.E. Mr Khalid Al Biyari, Assistant Minister of Defence for Executive Affairs.

During the bilateral meet, both sides reviewed the progress of ongoing defence cooperation projects and discussed new avenues for joint ventures in emerging technologies in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030.

CGS reaffirmed Pakistan's continued support for the capacity building of the Royal Saudi Defence Forces. Saudi leadership appreciated Pakistan's commitments, achievements and sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and vital contributions to regional peace and stability.

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US, South Korea to 'move forward' on building nuclear-powered submarines

Iran Press TV

Friday, 14 November 2025 2:34 PM

The United States and South Korea have announced a significant advancement in their partnership, agreeing to move forward with plans to build nuclear-powered submarines.

Details of the agreement indicate that South Korea will invest $150 billion in the US shipbuilding sector, alongside an additional $200 billion in various US industrial sectors.

At a news conference on Friday, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung stated that this agreement formalizes the collaboration between Washington and Seoul to develop nuclear-powered submarines.

He highlighted that this partnership will extend to shipbuilding, artificial intelligence, and the nuclear industry.

President Lee also mentioned that South Korea has secured support for expanding its authority over uranium enrichment and spent fuel reprocessing as part of the agreement.

According to Yonhap News Agency, South Korea's substantial investment in US sectors comes in exchange for a reduction in trade tariffs on Korean goods, which will decrease from 25% to 15%.

This strengthened collaboration occurs amid heightened tensions with North Korea, as well as the United States' increased military presence near China and arms sales to Chinese Taipei.

North Korea continues to pursue its own arms development, testing new weapons designed to deter foreign aggression and defend its sovereignty.

In response to these developments, China has consistently warned the US against expanding its military presence in the region.

Beijing has also protested US arms sales to Taiwan, condemning Washington for what it perceives as interference in China's domestic affairs through its support of pro-independence advocates in Taipei.

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Baiba Braze at the Sanctions Coordination Council: Sanctions are working, with a growing impact on Russia's economy. The next sanctions package to focus on Russian energy exports, the shadow fleet and its supporters

Republic of Latvia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

14.11.2025

On 13 November 2025, the Sanctions Coordination Council held its 16th meeting chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Baiba Braze and with participation of representatives from more than 30 public and private sector institutions. The meeting focused on the impact of sanctions on Russia's economy, the work accomplished and further steps to be taken to combat the shadow fleet and its supporters, and the strengthening of international cooperation and coordination for a more effective enforcement and supervision of sanctions.

The Deputy Head of the Financial Intelligence Unit, Paulis Iljenkovs, the Director of the Customs Administration at the State Revenue Service, Raimonds Zukuls, and the Senior Supervision Expert of the Compliance Division at the Anti-Money-Laundering Department of the Bank of Latvia, Artis Aizupietis, informed the Council about the current situation with the implementation of sanctions. The Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasized that sanctions are among the most important instruments of pressure against Russia in order to weaken Russia's ability to finance a war of aggression and to end its aggression against Ukraine.

Foreign Minister Baiba Braze:

"Sanctions are working, and figure clearly demonstrate that sanctions are having a negative impact on the Russian economy. Sanctions by the EU, the U.S., the UK and other international partners are effective and must be further strengthened to constrain Russia and its co-aggressors. Together with Allies, we must continue to streamline coordination to mutually align sanctions against Russia's energy sector and financial institutions, the shadow fleet vessels and their supporting ecosystem, including insurance and service companies. It is also important to continue working on aligning sanctions against Russia and its co-aggressor Belarus. Sanctions must also be targeted against entities in third countries that help circumvent sanctions and support aggression. At the EU level, we are already working on the 20th round of sanctions  we will continue to target Russian energy exports, the shadow fleet and its supporters until the aggression is stopped."

According to Kyiv School of Economics, Russia's budget deficit is expected to reach $70 billion in 2025. Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia's lost profits from oil exports have reached almost $160 billion, and companies that account for a quarter of revenues to the Russian budget are on the verge of bankruptcy.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasized that Latvia is a model for other EU member states in the effective enforcement of sanctions and thanked Latvian authorities  security services, customs, the Border Guard, the State Revenue Service  for their excellent cooperation in ensuring effective enforcement of sanctions and preventing their circumvention.

"Effective enforcement of sanctions is also a security issue. For Latvia, as a country at the EU's external border, sanctions control is a significant burden, and out of all sanction violations detected at Latvia's external border, for 75% of cargos, customs procedures had been initiated in other EU member states. We regularly discuss this with our colleagues in the EU institutions and Member States, advocating for strengthening the security of the EU's eastern border," Baiba Braze pointed out.

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EU Faces Challenges In Crafting New Russia Sanctions Amid Focus On Ukraine Funding

By Rikard Jozwiak November 14, 2025

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently hinted the European Union is working on another sanctions package on Russia, less than a month after agreeing on a new raft of measures aimed at hitting the Kremlin over the full-scale invasion of its neighbor.

The first question is how quickly such a new proposal may emerge. EU diplomats whom RFE/RL spoke with under the condition of anonymity say they doubt fresh measures will be presented this side of Christmas.

Brussels has two bigger priorities at the moment: securing funding for Ukraine for the next two years (with a so-called reparations loan still the favored option) and making sure all current EU sanctions on Moscow are renewed.

Both issues need to be solved in January at the latest. The latter requires unanimity while the former needs broad political backing.

EU officials are, in other words, wary of adding another task requiring consensus and have hinted that a new sanctions package might first arrive around the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2026.

This hasn't stopped EU member states from drawing up their wish-lists, though. One discussion paper seen by RFE/RL and authored by the Baltic trio Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania as well as Germany Poland, and Sweden makes it clear the next goal should be to limit EU imports of Russian goods.

Noting that the bloc imported goods from the country to the tune of 35 billion euros last year, the six countries argue there still is plenty of leeway for the club to lessen its dependence on Moscow.

The bulk of these imports are in energy such as gas and oil as well as various agricultural products. Brussels already committed earlier this year to largely phasing out both Russian energy and agriculture imports by 2027.

Russian Steel And Phosphates

The countries are essentially looking at the next most imported Russian item: steel.

So far this year, the club has imported Russian steel to the tune of 1.3 billion euros, or 8 percent of total EU imports from the country. Most of those steel products are so-called steel slabs, a foundation material that is crafted into more elaborate steel products.

While Brussels imposed import bans on some Russian steel already back in 2022, steel slab intakes have an exemption till October 2028. This exemption could be crossed out.

Another potential target is so-called inorganic chemicals from Russia, which constitute 3 percent of total EU imports from Russia. These include anhydrous ammonia and calcium phosphates, which can be used both for agriculture but also in the plastics and pharmaceutical industries.

The discussion paper notes the United States is currently both the largest importer and exporter of these products and potential sanctions wouldn't disrupt their European supplies.

Potassium fertilizers are a similar story. While the EU has targeted nitrogen-based fertilizers with trade restrictions, imports of those that are potassium-based actually increased in 2024 compared to 2023 and 2022.

The EU still produces its own potassium fertilizers but at a higher cost, largely due to stringent environmental regulations. But the bloc could also import from other third countries such as Canada and Israel, meaning sanctions on these Russian imports wouldn't necessarily translate into a shortage for European farmers.

Targeting Russia's 'Shadow Fleet'

The EU also wants to figure out how to target Russia's "shadow fleet" -- often rickety vessels with shadowy ownership Moscow uses to circumvent the G7 oil cap. The cap has set a limit, currently at $47.60 per barrel, at which Russian crude oil is allowed to be traded.

Brussels has so far blacklisted 562 vessels trying to undercut the cap. The blacklisting means they cannot be serviced at any EU ports, but it is believed there are at least another 400 that still haven't been targeted. And they are still allowed to sail in EU waters, often causing fears of oil spills and other hazards.

France recently distributed a discussion paper among EU capitals on what more can be done in this field. The gist of Paris's proposal is that the EU and like-minded countries should focus on what it calls "a volume-driven approach."

This essentially means regulating how much oil boats are allowed to carry. While not sketching out how this would work in practice , the document, seen by RFE/RL, notes that Brussels's next move should be to hit "all enablers of the shadow fleet's, especially its financial, commercial, and logistical networks in third countries."

While this could obviously mean sanctions, the paper also suggests "introducing incentives to encourage owners of listed vessels to reintegrate legitimate trade channels" and "preventing further increase in tonnage through more stringent controls and due diligence requirements on the sales of ships."

Then there is the issue of stopping boats belonging to the shadow fleet in European waters.

Paris made headlines earlier in September when French authorities boarded the vessel Pushpa/Boracay after suspicions that the ship played a part in drone incidents in Denmark earlier that month that triggered the closure of Copenhagen airport for several hours.

France is urging the bloc to act more forcefully against boats that in fact may be stateless, arguing that "when these suspect vessels are falsely flagged, or when they have in reality already been erased of the register of the flag State they claim, they are stateless vessels" and as such make them easier for European nations to board without falling foul under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/eu-challenges-new-russia- sanctions-ukraine-funding/33591803.html

Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Hungary to Sue EU for Ban on Russian Gas

Sputnik News

20251114

Hungary intends to file a lawsuit over the European Council's plan to gradually phase out imports of Russian gas, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said.

"We do not accept this obviously unlawful solution contrary to European values, which was chosen by Brussels to shut down a national government that disagrees with it," Hungarian PM Viktor Orban told Kossuth Radio, referring to the EU decision to cut gas imports from Russia by late 2027.

"We are turning to the European Court of Justice," he said, adding the move by the EU requires unanimous voting which didn't happen.

On October 20, EU member-states met in Luxembourg to discuss the plan to gradually phase our remaining gas imports from Russia. The move has been approved despite Hungary and Slovakia objecting the idea.

 Sputnik

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Russia Grateful to North Korea for Assistance in Kursk Region - Kremlin

Sputnik News

20251114

Russia is grateful to and appreciative of its friends from North Korea for their selfless assistance, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, commenting on the work of North Korean sappers in the Kursk Region.

"We are grateful to and truly appreciative of our friends from North Korea for their selfless and heroic assistance. We will never forget this help," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Russia highly values North Korea's assistance in the Kursk Region, the official said, adding that dangerous and difficult work continues.

The Kremlin sees a problem with coordinating final documents at international forums, Dmitry Peskov also stated.

"Regarding the final document, indeed, such issues sometimes arise in various events. Different positions on the most pressing issues," Peskov told reporters, adding that when it is impossible to reach consensus, the document is not adopted.

Compliance with international law is currently in a poor state in many parts of the world, the official also said commenting on US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth's announcement of operation "Southern Spear."

"We hope ... that everything will be in accordance with international law. Even though this international law is currently in a poor state in many parts of the world," Peskov told reporters.

The G20 retains its significance and importance for the countries participating in it, Kremlin spokesman also stated ahead of the Johannesburg summit from November 22-23.

"The G20 certainly retains its importance and significance for many countries participating in this format," Peskov told reporters, adding that Russia remains interested in the group.

Additionally, the official said that Russia has always opposed the politicization of the G20 agenda.

 Sputnik

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Trump presses MBS to move towards normalization with Israel: Report

Iran Press TV

Friday, 14 November 2025 3:42 PM

US President Donald Trump has pressed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to move toward normalization with Israel, after a ceasefire was reached in Gaza, US officials say.

Citing two US officials, Axios said Trump made the request in a phone call held last month after the Gaza summit in Egypt, where a ceasefire deal was signed.

A US official with direct knowledge of the call said Trump told MBS that now that the war ended, he wanted the crown prince to move toward normalization with Israel.

MBS responded that he was willing to work on it with the US administration, according to the US official.

US officials have told Riyadh they're hoping for progress on that issue around the upcoming meeting between Trump and MBS at the White House next week, though they acknowledge the gaps between the Saudis and Israelis remain wide, the report said.

"Our message to the Saudis is: 'We did all the things you asked for. Now, there are things President Trump wants, like normalization with Israel. So how are you guys going to move now in this direction?'" a senior US official said.

Israel's genocidal war on Gaza, which has made the Saudi public much more anti-Israeli, was a major obstacle to the normalization deal but not the only one.

US officials believe that some of the other Saudi demands for moving toward normalization have now been met.

Riyadh has long insisted that it will only normalize ties with Tel Aviv if it agrees to establish a time-bound, irreversible pathway to a future Palestinian state.

The White House believes the final two clauses of Trump's Gaza ceasefire plan put Palestinian statehood on the table.

The plan says that if the Palestinian Authority "faithfully" conducts reforms during the reconstruction of Gaza, "the conditions may finally be in place for a credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood, which we recognize as the aspiration of the Palestinian people."

It also says the US will establish a dialogue between Israel and the Palestinians to agree on a "political horizon for peaceful and prosperous co-existence."

Former US officials and Arab diplomats doubt that language meets the demand of Riyadh.

According to a former US official who is close to Saudi leadership, MBS needs much stronger commitments directly from Israel, with tangible steps on the ground, in order to sell normalization to the Saudi nation.

The Saudis also sought a defense pact with Washington, and they are expected to get a security pledge from Trump during MBS' visit that could serve as a platform for a full-fledged defense treaty.

However, US officials rule out the possibility that ongoing discussions could lead to any breakthrough regarding normalization during MBS' visit.

Trump earlier this month claimed that Saudi Arabia will normalize relations with the Israeli regime without any preconditions, including the establishment of a Palestinian state.

"He has said they won't join the Abraham Accords without a two-state solution. Do you believe that?" CBS correspondent Norah O'Donnell asked Trump about MBS.

"No, I think he's going to join," Trump responded. "I think we will have a solution. I don't know if it's going to be two-state, that's going to be up to Israel, and other people, and me."

The UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco signed the US-brokered normalization pact with Israel in 2020, drawing condemnations from Palestinians who slammed the deals as "a stab in the back of the Palestinian cause and the Palestinian people."

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HTS strips Russia of Syria port deals; hands Tartus to UAE, Latakia to France

Iran Press TV

Friday, 14 November 2025 7:01 AM

Syria has formally handed over operations of Tartus port, the second largest port in the country, to the logistics company DP World from the United Arab Emirates under a 30-year, $800-million concession.

DP World officially commenced operations months after signing a 30-year $800-million concession agreement Syria's General Authority for Land and Sea Ports.

"We are committed to applying DP World's global expertise to build a modern and digitally enabled port that will grow trade, create opportunities and firmly position Tartus as a key trade hub in the Eastern Mediterranean," said Fahad al-Banna, the newly appointed chief executive of DP World Tartus.

Under the agreement, DP World would upgrade the port's infrastructure, expand handling and storage capacity, and invest in bulk-handling systems.

This comes as the Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)-led regime in Syria in June decided to annul a 2019 agreement between former President Bashar al-Assad's government and Russia's Stroytransgaz, saying the company breached its contract by failing to invest a promised $500 million in modernizing Tartous.

Along with Tartus, a separate 30-year concession was also inked with French shipping company CMA CGM to run Latakia port, the largest port city in the country.

The shift comes after US President Donald Trump announced in May that all US sanctions on Syria would be lifted.

Trump made the announcement in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, during his visit to the kingdom, where he met Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, the leader of the Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)-led regime in Syria, who expressed readiness to normalize ties between Damascus and Israel.

Once affiliated with al-Qaeda and Daesh, al-Jolani seized power in Syria following a rapid onslaught by his militant group, Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which ousted the government of President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.

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Renewed fighting erupts between Druze, HTS forces in Sweida: Report

Iran Press TV

Friday, 14 November 2025 6:54 AM

Heavy clashes have reportedly erupted between armed elements affiliated with Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and Druze fighters in Sweida, amid the deepening sectarian violence that has spread across Syria under HTS rule.

Local media reported intense fighting on several fronts in the southern province, with both light and heavy weapons used.

The heaviest confrontations were reported around al-Majdal and Rimat Hazem in western Sweida. Both sides were reported to be sending reinforcements, while Israeli aircraft were seen patrolling the skies above the area, according to reports.

Syria's al-Ikhbariah, citing a security source, said Druze fighters targeted positions held by HTS forces in Tal al-Aqra' and al-Mazra'a.

Tensions in southern Syria have been escalating since July 13, when clashes broke out between Druze fighters and armed Bedouin tribes over land and resources in the province.

The violence worsened significantly after the HTS military was deployed to the province on July 14 and entered Sweida city itself on July 15, according to residents, two war monitors and reporters on the ground.

Later, the spiritual leadership of Syria's Druze said that the HTS forces had committed serious violations during the conflict.

Claiming to support the Druze, the Israeli regime launched airstrikes on July 16 against several strategic sites in Damascus, including the Syrian Army General Staff headquarters.

Hours later, the HTS defense ministry announced the full withdrawal of its forces from Sweida under a ceasefire agreement.

The spike in unrest came against a broader backdrop of instability that has gripped the country since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad in December last year.

Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), led by former al-Qaeda commander Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, now rules Syria. Rights groups and residents say the HTS administration has intensified sectarian divisions and fueled waves of violence across provinces.

Sweida saw some of the most deadly incidents. The province witnessed a week of bloody clashes beginning July 13, with estimates of the death toll ranging from 814 to 1,653.

Most of the victims were Druze, though it remains unclear how many were civilians or fighters.

The violence forms part of a pattern seen across Syria since Assad's fall. The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported nearly 11,000 civilian deaths since militant factions led by HTS seized power in December.

It documented widespread abuses, including field executions, torture, kidnappings and indiscriminate attacks. The monitor said 8,422 civilians were among the 10,955 people killed nationwide from December 2024 to October 2025.

Sectarian attacks have also targeted Syria's Alawite community in recent months, while clashes between HTS and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces continued in the north until a ceasefire in October.

The Israeli regime, meanwhile, has escalated its own strikes across the country, exploiting Syria's post-Assad instability to grab more land from the Arab country.

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BEIJING, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese government spokesperson on Saturday urged the United States to approach the Taiwan question with utmost prudence.

Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, made the remarks in response to a query concerning the recently announced 330-million-U.S.-dollar U.S. arms sales to Taiwan.

"We firmly oppose U.S. arms sales to Taiwan. This position is consistent and clear," Chen said, adding that such a move seriously undermined China's sovereignty and security interests, and sent a seriously wrong signal to the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces.

He urged the U.S. side to abide by the one-China principle and the three China-U.S. joint communiques -- especially the August 17 Communique -- stop indulging and supporting "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, and approach the Taiwan question with the utmost prudence.

Noting that "Taiwan independence" is utterly incompatible with peace in the Taiwan Strait, Chen issued a stern warning to the Lai Ching-te authorities that seeking independence through external forces or military means is a dead end.

"We will take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard our national sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity," he said. 
Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States - Non-Standard Spare and Repair Parts

NEWS | Nov. 13, 2025

Media/Public Contact: T_Outreach_PM@state.gov

Transmittal No. 25-73

WASHINGTON, November 13, 2025 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States of Non-Standard Spare and Repair Parts and related equipment for an estimated cost of $330 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress.

The Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United (TECRO) has requested to buy non-standard components, spare and repair parts, consumables and accessories, and repair and return support for F-16, C-130, and Indigenous Defense Fighter (IDF) aircraft; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total cost is $330 million.

The proposed sale is consistent with U.S. law and policy as expressed in Public Law 96-8.

This proposed sale serves U.S. national, economic, and security interests by supporting the recipient's continuing efforts to modernize its armed forces and to maintain a credible defensive capability. The proposed sale will help improve the security of the recipient and assist in maintaining political stability, military balance, and economic progress in the region.

The proposed sale will improve the recipient's capability to meet current and future threats by maintaining the operational readiness of the recipient's fleet of F-16, C-130, and IDF aircraft. The recipient will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The equipment will be transferred from U.S. Government stock. At this time, the U.S. Government is not aware of any offset agreement proposed in connection with this potential sale. Any offset agreement will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor.

Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional U.S. Government or contractor representatives to the recipient.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

The description and dollar value are for the highest estimated quantity and dollar value based on initial requirements. Actual dollar value will be lower depending on final requirements, budget authority, and signed sales agreement(s), if and when concluded.

All questions regarding this proposed Foreign Military Sale should be directed to the State Department's Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, Political-Military Affairs Outreach, at T_Outreach_PM@state.gov.

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U.S. approves potential US$330 million arms sale to Taiwan

ROC Central News Agency

11/14/2025 12:57 PM

Taipei, Nov. 14 (CNA) The United States government on Thursday announced a possible sale to Taiwan of fighter jet spare and repair parts, at an estimated cost of US$330 million.

It was the first announcement of an arms sale to Taiwan since U.S. President Donald Trump returned to the White House earlier this year.

The proposed package includes non-standard components, spare and repair parts, consumables and accessories, and repair and return support for F-16, C-130, and Indigenous Defense Fighter (IDF) aircraft, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) under the U.S. Department of Defense said in a statement.

It also includes U.S. government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics and program support, the DSCA said.

The DSCA has delivered the required certification notifying Congress of the sale, after the proposal was approved by the State Department, according to the statement.

It said the proposed sale is consistent with U.S. law and policy.

"This proposed sale serves U.S. national, economic, and security interests by supporting the recipient's continuing efforts to modernize its armed forces and to maintain a credible defensive capability," the DSCA said. "The proposed sale will help improve the security of the recipient and assist in maintaining political stability, military balance, and economic progress in the region."

In a statement issued Friday, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense expressed its appreciation to the U.S. for its continued efforts to help Taiwan maintain adequate self-defense capabilities under the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances.

The latest sale will help the Taiwan Air Force maintain combat readiness and strengthen air defense, while also boosting Taiwan's defense resilience and its ability to respond to China's gray-zone coercion, the ministry said.

(By Y.F. Low)

Enditem/pc

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U.S.-China ties steady barring Taiwan, Philippines attack: Ex-Trump staffer

ROC Central News Agency

11/14/2025 06:01 PM

Washington, Nov. 13 (CNA) The United States can maintain a workable relationship with China as long as Beijing does not take military action against Taiwan or the Philippines, former U.S. National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien has said.

In an audio interview with Foreign Affairs released Thursday, O'Brien said the current term of his former boss, U.S. President Donald Trump, is dominated by rebuilding the U.S. military, securing the southern border, and managing crises in Ukraine, Gaza and Iran.

Given these preoccupations, "as long as the Chinese stay out of Taiwan and don't invade Taiwan, and hopefully don't invade and take over Scarborough Shoal [a disputed reef in the South China Sea] and invade the Philippines, I think we can probably get along with the Chinese," O'Brien said.

O'Brien, who now heads the geopolitical advisory firm, American Global Strategies, added that Trump "felt in his gut" that Chinese leader Xi Jinping () would not launch an attack on Taiwan or the Philippines while Trump is in office.

After returning from an October meeting with Xi on the sidelines of the APEC summit in South Korea, Trump told reporters he had not discussed Taiwan with the Chinese leader.

However, in a subsequent 60 Minutes interview, Trump said China would not move against Taiwan while he is president because China's leaders "know the consequences."

"People were a little surprised at that," Trump said in the program. "He [Xi] never brought it up, because he understands it very well. Taiwan is a very interesting case. It's 69 miles away from China. We're 9,500 miles away. But that doesn't matter. He understands what will happen."

Trump again declined to say how the U.S. would respond if China attacked Taiwan. "I can't give away my secrets," he said. "I don't want to be one of these guys that tells you exactly what's gonna happen if something happens."

In a Nov. 5 Foreign Affairs article, O'Brien argued that a second Trump administration would restore the "peace through strength" posture of Trump's first term.

He noted that in addition to the 2026 defense budget, Trump has accelerated defense spending by allocating an additional US$150 billion. "Peace through strength is delivering stability and security," O'Brien said.

(By Elaine Hou, Ko Lin and Frances Huang)

Enditem/ASG

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U.S. arms sale approval signals strong backing for Taiwan: Researcher

ROC Central News Agency

11/14/2025 05:37 PM

Taipei, Nov. 14 (CNA) The announcement of a potential US$330 million arms sale to Taiwan by the United States this week sends a strong signal, a defense researcher said Friday.

Su Tzu-yun () of the government-funded Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR) said the latest arms sale involves maintenance of existing equipment and would help Taiwan strengthen its resilience against Chinese gray-zone coercion.

The proposed package includes nonstandard components, spare and repair parts, consumables and accessories, and repair and return support for F-16, C-130, and Indigenous Defense Fighter (IDF) aircraft, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) under the U.S. Department of Defense said in a statement on Thursday.

It also includes U.S. government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics and program support, the DSCA said.

The DSCA has delivered the required certification notifying Congress of the sale, after the proposal was approved by the State Department, according to the statement.

Su noted that it was the first announcement of an arms sale to Taiwan since U.S. President Donald Trump returned to the White House earlier this year.

Before his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping () in late October, Trump emphasized that "Taiwan is Taiwan" and said he has great respect for the island, Su said.

Su added that the arms sale announcement sends a clear message of support for Taiwan, dispelling rumors that Trump could have "sold out" the island's interests in a potential deal with China.

Shu Hsiao-huang (), an associate research fellow at the INDSR, said the arms sale is aimed at ensuring that Taiwan's military is able to maintain proper readiness of its aircraft.

Spare parts are just as important as any major equipment, because without effective logistics, the operational capability of weapons platforms cannot be maintained, Shu explained.

With China's threats against Taiwan becoming ever more intense, he said future systems must be capable of countering emerging forms of warfare. Taiwan, therefore, needs to assess its equipment requirements carefully and be clear about "what kind of war it is preparing to fight."

(By Matt Yu, Y.F. Low and Ko Lin)

Enditem/ASG

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'Authentic Taiwanese' should also be Chinese: KMT vice chair in Shanghai

ROC Central News Agency

11/14/2025 10:43 PM

Shanghai, Nov. 14 (CNA) Opposition Kuomintang (KMT) Vice Chairman Chang Jung-kung () on Friday paid an unannounced visit to Shanghai, where he met China's top Taiwan affairs official and said that "people who are authentic Taiwanese should also be openly and confidently Chinese."

Chang, who was appointed to his current post on Nov. 1 by newly elected KMT Chairperson Cheng Li-wun () after she assumed office on the same day, made his first visit to China in his new capacity.

During the meeting with China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Director Song Tao (), Chang said that everyone in Taiwan "has a Chinese surname, speaks Chinese, celebrates Chinese festivals and worships Chinese deities."

"Therefore, people who are authentic Taiwanese should also be openly and confidently Chinese," he added.

Chang also cited Cheng's message to Chinese President Xi Jinping () -- who also serves as Chinese Communist Party (CCP) general secretary -- which said that "in 1992, the two sides of the Taiwan Strait reached a consensus under which they each orally expressed their adherence to the 'one China principle.'"

He said he believes this is the "1992 consensus in its original form."

The "1992 consensus" refers to a tacit understanding reached in 1992 between the then KMT government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the Chinese government. It has been consistently interpreted by the KMT as an acknowledgment by both sides that there is only "one China," with each side free to interpret what "China" means.

The independence-leaning ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has never acknowledged the "1992 consensus," arguing that Beijing allows no room for the interpretation of "China" as the Republic of China, and that acceptance of the consensus would imply agreement with China's claim over Taiwan.

Chang said that over the past three decades, Taiwan has seen changes in ruling parties, but "history has shown that only when the '1992 consensus' is upheld and Taiwan independence is opposed can cross-strait relations develop peacefully."

Chang noted that under its new leadership lineup, the KMT will be even more resolute in upholding its existing political foundation on cross-strait relations and will continue to promote peace and exchanges across the Strait.

In his remarks, Song reiterated that as long as the "1992 consensus" is upheld, there will be peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and cross-strait relations can improve.

He described the "1992 consensus" as the shared political foundation between the CCP and the KMT, urging the two parties to strengthen exchanges and cooperation and to "jointly advance the process of national unification."

(By Chang Shu-ling and Sunny Lai)

Enditem/cs

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More reckless 'Taiwan independence' separatists become on their doomed path, sooner their end will come: mainland spokesperson

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Nov 14, 2025 12:32 PM

The "Taiwan independence" separatists are now on the brink of their demise, with no way out. Shen Pao-yang and the DPP authorities' secretive and self-directed visit stunt only exposes their inner panic as the sword of retribution against "Taiwan independence" hangs high, Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said on Friday in response to a question about Shen who went to Germany and claimed that he was "not afraid of the mainland's suppression."

Those who do evil things will inevitably bring about their own downfall. The more reckless the "Taiwan independence" separatists become on their doomed path, the sooner their end will come, the spokesperson said, noting that what awaits them is a righteous judgment, public disgrace, and a legacy of shame that will last forever.

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Japan must bear all consequences if it doesn't immediately correct mistakes, retract egregious statements on Taiwan: mainland's Taiwan affairs office

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Nov 14, 2025 05:34 PM

In response to the egregious remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi that Chinese mainland's "use of force on Taiwan" could constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan, and even after China lodged stern representations, she still asserted that her remarks are consistent with the Japanese government's position and said she had no intention of retracting or canceling them, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said on Friday that if Japan does not immediately correct its mistake and retract its egregious statements, it must bear all the consequences that follow.

Taiwan is sacred territory of China, and the Taiwan question is purely China's internal affair. Resolving the Taiwan question and achieving complete national reunification is an inherent requirement of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and the shared aspiration of over 1.4 billion Chinese people, Chen Binhua, the spokesperson said. As for what means are used, that is entirely a matter for the Chinese people themselves and brooks no interference from any external forces. Japan and its ruling politicians have absolutely no qualification to point fingerslet alone make threats or attempt to obstruct China's reunification, the spokesperson said.

Japan bears historical guilt to the Chinese people regarding the Taiwan question. After the First Sino-Japanese War, Japan forcibly seized Taiwan and imposed half a century of colonial rule. During the period of Japanese occupation, the people of Taiwan suffered immensely: hundreds of thousands were killed, the local population was reduced to "subjects of a lost nation" with no political rights, no religious freedom, and no cultural freedom, the spokesperson said.

The island's mineral resources and essential goods were plundered on a massive scale. The crimes committed by Japanese aggressors in Taiwan are too numerous to list and constitute the darkest chapter in Taiwan's history. It was the heroic struggle of all Chinese people, including compatriots in Taiwan, that defeated Japanese militarist aggressors, won the great victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, and restored Taiwan to China.

As we mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance and the restoration of Taiwan to China, the Japanese side does not reflect on its crimes or draw lessons from history, but instead, Prime Minister Takaichi has made blatant and malicious remarks on Taiwan, attempting to interfere in the situation across the Taiwan Straits, deny the fruits of victory in the war, and challenge the post-war international order. The Chinese government and Chinese people will never accept, tolerate, or condone this, Chen said.

If Japan does not immediately correct its mistake and retract its egregious statements, it must bear all the consequences that follow. Should it dare to interfere by force in the Taiwan question, we will strike back head-on and crush such attempts resolutely, the spokesperson stressed.

The Taiwan question concerns China's core interests and the national sentiments of all Chinese people. We have the firm will, strong resolve, and robust capability to defeat all "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and external interference, and to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity, Chen noted.

No matter how external forces attempt to create disturbances, the historical trend of China's eventual and inevitable reunification cannot be stopped. We hope that our Taiwan compatriots clearly recognize the danger and harm of such actions, and join us in safeguarding the common home of the Chinese nation and upholding the fundamental interests, security, and well-being of all Chinese people, the spokesperson said.

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Chinese FM condemns US approval of $330m Taiwan arms sale, urges Washington to stop aiding separatist forces

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Nov 14, 2025 11:39 PM

A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Friday condemned the US' reported approval of arms sale to China's Taiwan region, and called on Washington to stop abetting and aiding "Taiwan independence" separatist forces.

It's reported that according to the Pentagon, US Department of State approved the sale to Taiwan of non-standard components and repair support for F-16, C-130, and Indigenous Defense Fighter aircraft for an estimated total cost of $330 million, marking the first such transaction in President Donald Trump's second term.

Asked by the Global Times about China's comment at a regular press briefing on Friday, Lin Jian, the spokesperson, said that the US' arms sale to China's Taiwan region grossly violates the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques, especially the August 17 Communique of 1982, infringes on China's sovereignty and security interests, contravenes international law, and sends a gravely wrong signal to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces. China deplores and opposes that.

Lin stressed that the Taiwan question is at the core of China's core interests, and is the first red line that cannot be crossed in China-US relations.

China urges the US to abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques, act on its leaders' commitment on Taiwan-related issues, stop abetting and aiding separatist forces' attempt to seek "Taiwan independence" through military buildup, and take concrete actions in the interests of China-US relations and cross-Strait peace and stability, the spokesperson said.

Citing the Pentagon, Reuters claimed that the US' proposed sale would improve the recipient's capability to meet current and future threats by maintaining the operational readiness of the recipient's fleet of F-16, C-130, and other aircraft.

"China will do what is necessary to firmly defend China's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity," Lin told the press briefing on Friday.

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Taiwan to receive $330 million worth of military equipment from US

Iran Press TV

Friday, 14 November 2025 8:12 AM

The US State Department has announced the approval of a possible foreign military sale to Taiwan of fighter jet spare and repair parts valued at about $330 million.

The announcement marks the first such transaction since US President Donald Trump took office in January.

According to the statement issued by the US State Department, the return, repair, and reshipment of spare parts will be transferred from US government stock.

The Pentagon late Thursday confirmed the news, saying, "The proposed sale will improve the recipient's capability to meet current and future threats by maintaining the operational readiness of the recipient's fleet of F-16s and C-130s."

Taiwan's defense ministry expressed gratitude for the arms sale package, which it said it expected to "become effective" within a month.

"The repair and return of the aircraft parts and accessories agreed to be sold by the United States will help maintain the combat readiness and safety of various types of aircraft equipment of the air force."

Furthermore, Taiwan's presidential office spokeswoman, Karen Kuo, stated that "the deepening of the TaiwanUS security partnership is an important cornerstone of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region."

The United States is Taiwan's most important supporter and arms supplier, despite its lack of formal ties with the island.

According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, the total amount of US arms supplies to Taiwan has surpassed $70 billion in recent years.

In October, the US government approved a potential $2 billion arms sale package to Taiwan, including the delivery of an advanced air defense missile system as well as advanced surface-to-air missile systems and radar.

China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory, opposes any foreign interactions or visits by the island's leaders, especially those involving the United States.

Earlier this year, China's President Xi Jinping underscored Beijing's stance on Taiwan, saying, "We Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one and the same family. No one can ever sever the bond of kinship between us."

The US does not recognize Taiwan as a country and officially supports the "One China" policy, but regularly oversteps its own principles. It continues to antagonize Beijing by siding with Taipei's secessionist administration and engaging in frequent military missions around the island.

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PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

ROC Ministry of National Defense

2025/11/14

PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

1.Date

6 a.m. Nov. 13 (Thu.) to 6 a.m. Nov. 14 (Fri.) (UTC+8)

2.PLA activities

21 sorties of PLA aircraft and 3 PLAN ships operating around Taiwan were detected as of 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 18 out of 21 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.

1141114_PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan [Open a new window]

1141114_PLA air activities in the vicinity of Taiwan [Open a new window]

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KINSHASA, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- At least 20 people were killed overnight from Friday to Saturday in an attack attributed to Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), several local sources told Xinhua.

The rebels raided the village of Byambwe in Lubero territory, North Kivu Province, looting the area and setting fire to about 20 houses. They then moved toward the nearby locality of Mabiango, where additional human and material losses were reported, according to civil and military sources.

The attackers also targeted a health center in Byambwe, and several people remained missing as of Saturday.

The ADF, an Islamic State-linked armed group of Ugandan origin, has intensified assaults on villages in North Kivu and Ituri provinces in recent months, primarily targeting civilians.

According to the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the DRC, the assaults claimed at least 52 lives in North Kivu between Aug. 9 and 16. In late July, around 40 civilians were killed during an attack on a Catholic church in Ituri.

Joint Congolese and Ugandan military operations against the ADF have been underway since November 2021, but the attacks persisted. 
Denmark completes deliveries to Ukraine under the second instalment of windfall profits from immobilized Russian assets on behalf of the European Union

Danish Ministry of Defence

Denmark and Ukraine have finalized deliveries of weapons and military equipment produced in the Ukrainian defence industry amounting to almost EUR 830 million. The equipment was financed by windfall profits from immobilized Russian assets and used to strengthen the defence capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on behalf of the EU.

November 14, 2025 - 16:33

From February 2025, Denmark has been EU implementing actor for the disbursement of part of the second instalment of windfall profits through the European Peace Facility.

"I am very proud that Denmark has been trusted by the other EU Member States to serve as an implementing actor for the use of windfall profits from immobilized Russian assets to support Ukraine. Procurement through the Ukrainian defence industry has many advantages including fast deliveries, competitive prices and the best outset of conducting training and maintenance near the frontline. I am proud that the "Danish Model" continues to make a difference for the Ukrainian fight for freedom," says Minister of Defence Troels Lund Poulsen.

By the end of October, the deliveries of Ukrainian produced artillery systems, drones and ammunition were finalized. With those deliveries, approx. EUR 830 million are channelled into the Ukrainian defence industry supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

This is the second time Denmark has served as implementing actor on behalf of the EU. The first time was in 2024, when approximately EUR 390 million was directed to the Ukrainian defence industry under the Danish Model.

The Ukrainian defence industry has shown remarkable resilience, innovation and speed. By using part of the windfall profits directly in this industry, we are ramping up the Ukrainian production capacity and making it stronger for the future.

Facts:

Approx. EUR 2.6 billion is so far expected to be channeled through the Danish Model for donations through Ukrainian defence industry in 2024-2027.

Approx. EUR 1.3 billion of those are windfall profits from immobilized Russian assets spent on behalf of the EU through the European Peace Facility. Approx. EUR 80 million (third instalment) are still to be utilized this year.

Denmark has allocated almost EUR 900 million from the Danish Ukraine Fund for donations procured in the Ukrainian defence industry from 2024 to 2027.

Several other countries including Sweden, Canada, Norway and Iceland have also contributed financially to the model.

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Massive Russian Air Strike On Kyiv Kills At Least 6, Injures Dozens

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service, Current Time and RFE/RL's Russian Service November 14, 2025

Russian air strikes pounded Kyiv and other cities across Ukraine overnight, killing several people and wounding dozens of others -- including a pregnant woman -- as Moscow continues to hit civilian infrastructure.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russian forces used 430 drones and 18 missiles in the attack on November 14, making it one of its biggest attacks in recent months. Targets in Sumy, Odesa, and Kharkiv were also hit, he added.

According to Kyiv military administration head Tymur Tkachenko, six people were killed and at least 35 injured, two of whom were children, in a massive wave of missiles and drones that hit the Ukrainian capital and several other regions.

The air strikes targeted residential districts across the capital. Around 30 apartment buildings were damaged, alongside medical facilities, public transportation, offices, shops, and vehicles, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said.

"Once again, Russia has launched a heinous attack against Ukraine, our people, and ordinary residential buildings," Zelenskyy said in a post on X.

According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine's air-defense units intercepted 405 drones and 14 missiles, including two Kinzhal air-launched ballistic missiles. Debris and direct hits were reported at 13 locations in the capital, and falling fragments caused additional damage at 44 more locations, Zelenskyy said on Telegram.

"I'm going to die right here.... I don't have the strength anymore," one woman cried out as her daughter and son-in-law were trapped under rubble in their building.

Among the severely affected were dozens of high-rise buildings, hospitals, and the Azerbaijani Embassy, which was struck by an Iskander missile fragment, Zelenskyy added, calling the attacks "cowardly shelling."

The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said the attack destroyed part of the embassy's perimeter wall and caused significant damage to the diplomatic compound.

Renewed Calls For Western Air Defense

Russia has consistently denied that it targets civilian infrastructure despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.

Zelenskyy renewed urgent calls for enhanced Western air defense and interceptors, stressing that existing systems are insufficient to fully protect the city and its residents.

Ukraine has been seeking to upgrade its air-defense capabilities as Russia has intensified its aerial assaults in recent months.

Earlier this month, Zelenskyy said Germany had provided additional Patriot air-defense systems, though more are needed.

Kyiv also has urged the United States to supply longrange Tomahawk missiles to strike targets deep inside Russia, but President Donald Trump has repeatedly rebuffed the requests.

Moscow warned Washington against sending Tomahawks, with Putin calling the move a "completely new stage of escalation" in US-Russia relations.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian missiles and drones struck the Russian port city of Novorossiisk on the Black Sea, damaging a major oil terminal, six residential buildings, a civilian vessel, and port facilities.

Ukraine's military said it has used domestically made Neptune cruise missiles, which became famous for sinking the Moskva guided-missile cruiser, the flagship of Russia's Black Sea fleet, in 2022.

The strike on Novorossiisk during the night of November 14 caused significant disruption to Russian energy infrastructure and sparked emergency measures across the strategic Black Sea port.

Local media and citizen footage shared by the Exilenova+ Telegram channel described the attack as "very intense," with explosions visible near military and oil logistics facilities.

According to Reuters, citing industry sources, Russia's Transneft halted oil flows to the port immediately after the strike, contributing to an increase of more than 1 percent in global oil prices.

The city administration declared a state of emergency, as debris from intercepted drones damaged at least six residential buildings, several private structures, a civilian vessel at the port, injuring three crew members, and major oil terminals including the Sheskharis complex and the NUTEP container facility.

Fires broke out but were contained, and temporary shelters were organized for affected residents, officials said.

ASTRA, an independent media outlet, analyzed photographs and video posted online and concluded that part of the strike impacted military assets, including a site believed to house S-400 air-defense systems and the 1537th Red Banner Kuban Cossack regiment, which is part of the 51st Air Defense Division.

Satellite imagery reportedly shows multiple launchers, including S-300/S-400 and Pantsir-S1, stationed there, although official sources have not commented on military damage or casualties.

In parallel, another Ukrainian drone strike hit a refinery in Saratov, sparking additional fires and minor damage to civilian infrastructure.

The Russian Defense Ministry stated that it downed over 216 drones overnight, predominantly over Krasnodar Krai, the Black Sea, and the Saratov region, but did not clarify how many breached defenses.

Novorossiisk, one of Russia's largest oil export ports, and its Sheskharis terminal, which is operated by Chernomortransneft, a subsidiary of Transneft, play a key role in exporting Russian and Kazakh crude oil. The complex includes massive storage capacity for oil, fuel oil, and diesel.

Also on November 14, Aleksei Likhachyov, CEO of Russia's Rosatom State Atomic Agency, claimed Ukrainian drones "attempted to attack" the Novovoronezh Nuclear Power Plant in the southwestern region of Voronezh bordering Ukraine, on the night of November 13.

All drones were shot down, Likhachyov said. Ukrainian officials have not confirmed carrying out the attack.

Voronezh regional Governor Aleksandr Gusev said air defense and electronic warfare forces destroyed eight drones that night. Gusev added that when debris from one drone fell, it damaged auxiliary electrical equipment at the NPP, forcing the plant to reduce its output.

The Russian Defense Ministry reported the destruction of 216 drones overnight, including 66 over the Krasnodar Krai, 59 over the Black Sea, and 45 over the Saratov Region. The statement did not specify how many drones were shot down. Ukrainian military officials have not yet commented on the strikes.

With reporting by RIA Novosti, Reuters, Exilenova+, ASTRA, and RBK

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-attacks-kyiv- ukraine-invasion-deaths/33591664.html

Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Ukraine Used Talks to Buy Time Citing Ukrainian Diplomat's Interview - Russian Foreign Ministry

Sputnik News

20251114

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The recent interview of Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergiy Kyslytsya has proved that Kiev's true intent was not genuine negotiations but to delay talks and gain time for military position redeployment and weapon supply, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Friday.

On Tuesday, the UK newspaper Times, after a conversation with Kyslytsya, who participated in the negotiations in Istanbul, reported about the suspension of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. Commenting on his statement, Zakharova said that Kiev had broken its "last promises" on exchanges by exchanging less than 30% of the 1,200 people agreed upon.

"Today, it is clear that Ukraine curtailed talks, showing that there was no real intention to negotiate from the start. It was a tactic, a desire to gain time under the pretense of talks, retreating to their positions, repositioning [troops], and pleading for additional arms. The Times' report based on Kyslytsya's statements confirms this," Zakharova told a briefing.

From the start of the 2025 negotiations, Zelensky repeatedly disparaged the Russian delegation, applying psychological pressure, she said.

"Do you remember Zelensky saying that the Russian delegation was at the wrong level, that the wrong experts were present, that there was no one to deal with and talk to?" Zakharova added.

Russia and Ukraine have held three rounds of direct talks in Istanbul in May-July that resulted in prisoner swaps. Russia also handed over to Ukraine bodies of some of its soldiers. The sides exchanged memorandum projects on the crisis settlement.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in August that Moscow was ready to discuss the political aspects of the peace process with Ukraine in any format. He said Russia had not yet received Ukraine's response to the proposal it made in Istanbul in 2022 to create three working groups to thrash out humanitarian, military and political issues. Zelensky has rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin's invitation to come to Moscow for talks.

 Sputnik

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Ukraine Preparing New Provocations to Force Its Citizens Back From Europe  Zakharova

Sputnik News

20251114

On November 14, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova is holding a briefing via video conference on current foreign policy issues.

Ukraine is preparing new provocations to force its citizens back from Europe, the Russia's Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said.

"The Kiev clique, despite the officially lifted ban on young men aged 18 to 22 traveling abroad, is prepared to take any steps, including informational provocations, to bring back potential recruits who have fled," Zakharova told a briefing.

Earlier, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that he petitioned the Ukrainian leadership to make sure that young Ukrainian men do not flock to Germany in great numbers but instead serve their own country.

Germany is currently experiencing an influx of Ukrainian refugees, including large numbers of young men, Bild reports.

About half of Ukrainians who entered Germany since the beginning of this year  over 60,000 out of over 122,000  are male and their proportion is "increasing month by month." Whole groups of young Ukrainians were reported arriving at the border with Germany by minibuses and entering the country in groups.

This flood of Ukrainian refugees has already led German lawmakers to limit welfare benefits for the new arrivals from Ukraine, as the burden on the already-strained German budget is apparently becoming unbearable.

Moscow Calls Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Kyslytsya's Interview Absurd

The interview of Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergiy Kislitsa is absurd and only confirms Kiev's disinterest in finding a peaceful settlement to the conflict, Zakharova said on Friday.

The UK newspaper Times, after a conversation with Kislitsa, who participated in the negotiations in Istanbul, announced the suspension of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. Commenting on his statement, Zakharova said that Kiev had broken its "last promises" on exchanges by exchanging less than 30% of the 1,200 people agreed upon.

"All this cannot be called anything but absurd. Such statements only confirm once again the disinterest of the [Ukrainian President] Zelenskyy regime in a peaceful settlement," Zakharova told a briefing.

Russia's practical proposals for exchange of detainees thwarted by Kiev and it fulfilled less than 30% of all the agreements, the diplomat said.

"Instead of responding to specific proposals from the Russian side regarding, in particular, the organization of the further negotiation process, and instead of continuing this negotiation process, Kiev chose to blame Russia for everything in the hope of tightening Western sanctions against our country," Zakharova said.

 Sputnik

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Russia Hits Ukraine's Defense and Energy With Massive Kinzhal Strike in Retaliation

Sputnik News

20251114

The Russian Defense Ministry has provided the latest updates on this week's progress of the special military operation.

The Russian armed forces have launched a massive strike, including with Kinzhal missiles, against Ukrainian defense industry and energy facilities in response to Kiev's attacks, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Friday.

Russia's Tsentr battlegroup has eliminated more than 3,360 Ukrainian military personnel over the past week, the ministry also stated.

"Over the past week, in the area of responsibility of the Tsentr group of forces, the losses of Ukrainian armed forces amounted to over 3,360 servicepeople, three tanks, 45 combat armored vehicles, 43 cars, 11 field artillery pieces, and three electronic warfare stations," the ministry said in a statement.

Russia's Vostok battlegroup has eliminated up to 1,665 Ukrainian soldiers and the Zapad battlegroup has eliminated over 1,530 Ukrainian soldiers, the statement read.

Russia's Vostok battlegroup took control of the settlement of Orestopol in the Dnepropetrovsk region, the ministry also said.

"Over the past week, units of the Vostok group of forces continued to advance deep into the enemy's defenses and completed the liberation of the village of Orestopol in the Dnepropetrovsk region," the ministry said in a statement.

Russian armed forces eliminated over 1,670 Ukrainian military personnel in the area of Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk) and Dimitrov settlements in the Donetsk People's Republic in past week, the ministry said.

"Over the past week, in the areas of the settlements of Krasnoarmeysk and Dimitrov of the Donetsk People's Republic, the Ukrainian armed forces lost over 1,670 servicepeople, three tanks, 34 armored fighting vehicles, 31 vehicles, and six field artillery pieces," the ministry said in a statement.

Russia's Tsentr battlegroup cleared the settlement of Rog in the Donetsk People's Republic and took control of 49 buildings in Dimitrov, the ministry added.

"Over the past week, in the area of the settlement of Kupyansk in the Kharkov region, the enemy lost more than 365 servicemen and 25 armored fighting vehicles," the statement read.

Over the past day, Russian military personnel have thwarted three Ukrainian attacks in the Kharkov region, which Ukrainian troops were attempting to use to reach the Oskol River, the ministry added.

 Sputnik

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Russian Forces Continue to Mop Up Ukrainian Militants in Western Kupyansk

Sputnik News

20251114

The Russian Defense Ministry said that Ukrainian forces that had been trapped in the pockets of Kupyansk in the Kharkov region and of Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeysk) in the Donetsk People's Republic were suffering heavy losses.

The strike team of the Zapad battlegroup continues mopping up the western part of the city of Kupyansk near the Oskol River of the Ukrainian armed forces militants, the commander of the 121st Motorized Rifle Regiment with the call sign Sneg (lit. "Snow") said.

"The unit continues clearing the western part of Kupyansk near the Oskol River of the Ukrainian militants," the commander said in a video released by the Russian Defense Ministry.

The Russian forces have taken full control of the street of Prioskolnaya in Kupyansk, the commander said, adding that Russian fighters have eliminated up to 10 Ukrainian soldiers while clearing the street.

"We have completed clearing Prioskolnaya street  We are delivering fire on militant positions in the forest area south of Prioskolnaya street. During the fighting, we eliminated up to 10 militants," the commander said.

Ukrainian forces continue retreating along the Oskol River, the commander said, adding that the Russian fighters "will fulfill the assigned task."

Last week, the Russian Defense Ministry said that Ukrainian forces that had been trapped in the pockets of Kupyansk in the Kharkov region and of Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeysk) in the Donetsk People's Republic were suffering heavy losses. The ministry denied Zelensky's remarks about a Ukrainian mop-up operation in Kupyansk, suggesting he was either unaware of facts on the ground or was trying to hush them up.

 Sputnik

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Ukrainian Plot to Assassinate Senior Russian Official Thwarted

Sputnik News

20251114

Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) said it had prevented a planned assassination by Ukrainian security services of a senior Russian official at Troyekurovskoye Cemetery in Moscow.

"The Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation has thwarted a terrorist attack planned by Ukrainian security services against a senior Russian official while he was visiting the burial site of his close relatives at Troyekurovskoye Cemetery," the FSB said.

During the operation, communications devices were seized, revealing messages exchanged between the detainees and a Ukrainian special services operative, confirming the assassination plot. Authorities also uncovered a remote-controlled video surveillance camera disguised as a flower vase, which was used in the preparation of the terrorist act.

To carry out the assassination, Ukrainian special services recruited four individuals, including a migrant from Central Asia, the statement read.

"The Ukrainian regime, acting under the guidance of Western intelligence services, is preparing similar attacks in other Russian regions," the FSB added.

The FSB warned that any cooperation with foreign states or international organizations on a covert basis is prohibited. Russian law holds such offenders criminally liable, with penalties reaching life imprisonment.

 Sputnik

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Andrii Sybiha comments on Russia's latest attack on Ukraine

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

14 November 2025 08:30

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: "As I returned home from my visits to Canada and the UK this morning, Russia launched a brutal missile and drone attack on Kyiv, targeting ordinary houses, hospitals, energy, and civilian infrastructure. Around 30 residential homes were damaged. At least one person was killed, and 24 were injured, including a pregnant woman and a 10-year-old boy. I count on the swift implementation of the strong decisions discussed at our G7 meeting with my dear colleagues Anita Anand, Antonio Tajani, Jean-Noel Barrot, Johann Wadephul, Marco Rubio, Toshimitsu Motegi, Yvette Cooper, Kaja Kallas. This brutal Russian attack demonstrates the urgent need for new contributions to Ukraine's defense and new steps to increase pressure on Russia, including the long-awaited decision on frozen assets. We can force Putin to end the war by hitting him harder than he expects. The continuation of Russia's brutal war against civilians will not bring him anywhere except to the Special Tribunal. There will be justice for all Russian crimes".

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Andrii Sybiha held phone talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sweden Maria Malmer Stenergard

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

14 November 2025 19:22

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: "Pleased to speak with my Swedish colleague Maria Malmer Stenergard. I informed her about the consequences of Russia's massive attacks and the situation on the battlefield. We focused on further joint efforts to strengthen Ukraine and our defence capabilities. In this regard, we underlined the importance of the recently signed agreement paving the way for Ukraine to acquire Gripen fighter jets. I expressed my gratitude for Sweden's unwavering support, in particular vital energy-related aid packages and principled stance on the use of Russia's immobilized assets. I also informed my counterpart about Ukraine's response to the recent corruption investigations and our firm commitment to ensuring accountability."

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Andrii Sybiha held phone talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Romania Oana Toiu

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

14 November 2025 20:18

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: "I had a substantial call with Foreign Minister of Romania Oana Toiu. I briefed my counterpart on Russia's intensified strikes against Ukraine and our critical infrastructure. We focused on the main topics of our bilateral cooperation, shared security challenges in the region, and implementation of the agreements reached during last week's call between our Presidents. We also talked about the Romanian national minority in Ukraine and its educational rights. I reaffirmed that Ukraine's approach remains open, good-neighbourly, and based on mutual respect and partnership with Romania."

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BBC editing scandal deepens credibility crisis

Xinhua) 10:32, November 15, 2025

Photo taken on Nov. 4, 2025 shows the exterior of the White House, in Washington, D.C., the United States. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

The scandal has thrust BBC back into public controversy at a moment when its reputation for journalistic integrity has already been stained by earlier editing errors and accusations of reporting bias.

LONDON, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- The BBC's apology to U.S. President Donald Trump for a misleading documentary has triggered a political and media storm in both London and Washington, but the broadcaster insists on Thursday it will not pay the 1 billion U.S. dollars in damages Trump demands.

The scandal has thrust the institution back into public controversy at a moment when its reputation for journalistic integrity has already been stained by earlier editing errors and accusations of reporting bias.

The controversy erupted after The Daily Telegraph revealed an internal BBC memo showing that an October 2024 Panorama episode, Trump: A Second Chance?, had stitched together two segments of Trump's speech on Jan. 6, 2021, delivered more than 50 minutes apart. The edit created the misleading impression that Trump was directly urging supporters toward the Capitol riot, sparking public outrage and prompting The New York Times to label it as the BBC's "worst crisis in decades."

The fallout quickly escalated, leading to the resignations of Director-General Tim Davie and head of news Deborah Turness last Sunday.

Tower Bridge is seen as the sun sets in London, Britain, Aug. 2, 2025. (Photo by Wang Muhan/Xinhua)

Trump's legal team pressed on, demanding a full retraction, a formal apology, and 1 billion U.S. dollars in damages. The White House confirmed on Wednesday that legal action had been filed. By Thursday night, the BBC said Chair Samir Shah had written to the White House expressing regret for the "error of judgment" and promising the program would not air again, while rejecting Trump's defamation claim.

The controversy has revived long-standing questions about the BBC's editorial culture and oversight structures, which critics say have been weakened by years of reputational blows. The corporation, founded in 1922, has previously weathered major crises, ranging from the 1995 Diana interview obtained through forged documents to fabricated Panorama footage in a 2011 report on child labour in Bangalore.

In 2023, several journalists working for the BBC accused the organisation of failing to maintain neutrality in its Israel-Palestine coverage, arguing that reporting placed disproportionately emphasis on Israeli victims while omitting crucial context on Palestinian suffering.

This photo taken on Feb. 8, 2024 shows a view of the River Thames during the twilight in London, Britain. (Xinhua/Li Ying)

The Telegraph also reported that BBC Newsnight had spliced Trump speech excerpts as early as 2022, drawing an on-air challenge from a guest and raising further questions about newsroom standards.

The series of incidents has fueled fresh international criticism of Western media bias, with Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova accusing outlets like the BBC of "turning black into white" and constructing fabricated narratives.

Analysts say the latest crisis exposes deeper structural weaknesses that, if left unaddressed, could undermine the broadcaster's authority as Britain's public service media institution. Yet the government has defended the corporation, with a spokesperson saying on Monday that it does not believe the BBC suffers from "institutional bias."

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Liang Jun)
BEIJING, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese government spokesperson on Saturday urged the United States to approach the Taiwan question with utmost prudence.

Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, made the remarks in response to a query concerning the recently announced 330-million-U.S.-dollar U.S. arms sales to Taiwan. 
Sergiy Boyev and Anna Gvozdiar brief European partners on Ukraine's defence industry priorities and capabilities

Ministry of Defence of Ukraine

14 November, 2025, 2:21 PM EET

Deputy Ministers of Defence of Ukraine, Sergiy Boyev and Anna Gvozdiar, met with a delegation of the European Union Council's Working Party on Defence Industry (DIWP) to discuss ways to strengthen defence-industrial cooperation.

During the meeting, the European partners were briefed on Ukraine's Defence Forces' current needs and the Ministry of Defence's priorities for developing the domestic defence industry.

"Thanks to the assistance provided by international partners, next year Ukraine will be able to focus on key priorities: expanding the production of drones and missiles, strengthening air defence, advancing electronic warfare capabilities, and ensuring the supply of artillery ammunition. This will significantly strengthen our defence capability," Sergiy Boyev noted.

For her part, Anna Gvozdiar underscored the capabilities of Ukraine's defence manufacturers. "Whereas Ukraine's defence industry previously consisted mainly of state-owned enterprises, the full-scale invasion has triggered a genuine boom in the private sector. Today, most manufacturers of drones, electronic warfare (EW) systems, and components operate in private ownership," the Deputy Minister of Defence explained.

Anna Gvozdiar stressed that, provided there is financial backing from international partners and a full workload across the sector, Ukrainian defence manufacturers have the capacity to produce up to $35 billion worth of armaments.

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Strengthening support for Ukraine: Denys Shmyhal holds talks with E5 defence ministers

Ministry of Defence of Ukraine

14 November, 2025, 4:19 PM EET

Minister of Defence of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal took part in a videoconference with the defence ministers of the European Group of Five (E5) countries  Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Poland, and France  as well as the EU High Representative, Kaja Kallas.

"Bolstering our air defence continues to be one of Ukraine's foremost priorities. I informed the partners about today's massive russian attack targeting civilian and critical infrastructure. We are counting on the delivery of additional air defence systems and interceptor missiles to save the lives of Ukrainians," the Minister of Defence underlined.

He further stressed the importance of supplying additional long-range strike capabilities. According to the Minister of Defence, combined with sanctions, strikes against enemy energy and military infrastructure could bring the aggressor to the negotiating table.

"Today we received an important signal from our allies  defence support for Ukraine will continue to grow. Germany, in particular, is increasing its military assistance to Ukraine to 12 billion in 2026. In 2027, the country plans to allocate 9 billion to support Ukraine's defence," Denys Shmyhal noted.

In turn, German Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius announced Germany's readiness to increase supplies of air defence systems, ammunition, and drones. Germany is also preparing a new contribution to the PURL mechanism. Denys Shmyhal thanked Germany for this vital support.

The participants also discussed ways to finance the Defence Forces of Ukraine's needs.

"Part of the recent 6 billion tranche will enable us to allocate additional resources to strengthen our defence. Together with the European Commission, we are working on launching a reparations credit for Ukraine," Denys Shmyhal stated.

He added that the next meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) is scheduled for 3 December.

Denys Shmyhal expressed gratitude to the allies for their steadfast support and their efforts to achieve a just peace.

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Ukraine: UN condemns latest deadly attack targeting civilians in Kyiv

14 November 2025 - Several civilians were killed and many others injured, including children, in a large-scale Russian attack on Ukraine's capital and the wider Kyiv region early on Friday.

The UN Spokesperson said Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly condemned the large-scale missile and drone strikes across the country on Friday, which reportedly killed at least six people in Kyiv and two in Chornomorsk, and caused multiple civilian injuries.

Residential areas, energy facilities and the Azerbaijani Embassy in Kyiv were also damaged.

He stressed that "attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure are unacceptable" and violate international humanitarian law. He also recalled "the inviolability of diplomatic premises".

The Secretary-General again urged a full, immediate and unconditional ceasefire as a first step towards a just and lasting peace that respects Ukraine's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.

The UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Ukraine, Matthias Schmale, also deplored the latest wave of drones and missile strikes, which damaged or destroyed homes, medical facilities and heating networks in and around the capital.

"I condemn the ongoing pattern of massive civilian harm caused by these strikes, which are destroying essential infrastructure just as winter sets in," he said in a statement posted on social media.

Assault on energy systems

Ukraine is facing intensified attacks on its energy grid, UN human rights investigators said in a recent report.

"October saw emergency power cuts across multiple regions of Ukraine, driven by the Russian Federation's continued region-specific attacks and renewed large-scale strikes on energy infrastructure," it said.

Children suffering

At least six people were killed in the Kyiv attack, according to media reports.

The UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) said two children, aged seven and 10, were reportedly among those injured.

"More terrifying, sleepless and cold nights for children in Ukraine as attacks continue, impacting homes, power and heating supply systems," the agency tweeted.

UNICEF also spoke to a boy called Viacheslav. His home was damaged in the strikes and his neighbours were among those reportedly killed.

"First there was a rumble, it grew louder, and then everything exploded. Our windows blew out," he recalled. "I was very scared."

UNICEF appealed for an end to all attacks, and for children to be protected.

Humanitarian response continues

The full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine is now in its fourth year and continues to devastate lives and infrastructure.

More than 14,500 people have been killed, and nearly 38,500 injured.

Nearly 13 million people, 36 per cent of the population, need humanitarian assistance, according to UN aid coordination office OCHA.

Despite challenges, the UN and partners reached 8.4 million people last year.

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Security Council lays the ground in the race for the next Secretary-General

14 November 2025 - The UN Security Council met on Friday for its annual debate over how it operates  including the process to select the next Secretary-General in 2026.

Governments will soon submit letters nominating candidates to lead the 80-year-old organization, whose top post is traditionally rotated among geographical regions  although all UN chiefs to date have been men.

The Secretary-General is appointed by the General Assembly, the UN's most representative body, following a recommendation from the Council's 15 members.

A 'significant' responsibility

"As the year draws to a close, the Council approaches one of its most significant responsibilities, namely the process of selection of the next Secretary-General," said Danish Ambassador Christina Markus Lassen, co-chair of the Informal Working Group on Documentation and Other Procedural Questions.

"In the coming months, the Council will be discussing how it votes, how it engages with candidates, how it informs the wider membership of its progress and its outcomes."

Russia held the rotating Council presidency in October and Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya said the country "promptly started work for agreement to be reached" on the joint invitation letter with the General Assembly inviting countries to submit their candidates.

"We trust that the document will be adopted in short time to formally start this important process," he said.

"We trust that the efforts of the Security Council will help to facilitate the selection of the worthiest candidate for the future head of the Secretariat."

A woman leader

The next UN Secretary-General will serve a five-year term starting in January 2027, after current chief Antonio Guterres of Portugal leaves office.

As no woman has ever held the post, Chile's representative spoke up for "an open, participatory and gender-inclusive process."

"After 80 years, the time has come for a woman to lead this organization; a woman who, with her leadership and vision, can provide the multilateral system with the credibility that it needs to respond to the challenges of our time," he said.

"The principle of regional rotation should be respected as well, and it is the turn of the region of Latin America and the Caribbean to lead this post," he added.

Productive meetings matter

More than 40 countries participated in the debate on the Council's working methods, known as Note 507, adopted last December.

How meetings are conducted has become increasingly important over the past year, given the urgent crises on its agenda, said Loraine Sievers, former chief of the office that supports the daily work of the council.

"Of course, people focus primarily on the statements made here and the voting on draft resolutions," she said.

"But even when Council members and non-member participants demonstrate starkly differing positions, the Security Council and the UN itself can gain credibility or lose credibility depending on how orderly and professionally Council meetings are conducted."

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TORONTO, Nov. 14, 2025 - Consolidated Lithium Metals Inc. (TSXV: CLM) (FRA: Z36) ("CLM" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that is closed its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Offering") of units (the "Units") at a price of $0.06 per Unit. The Company issued a total 57,361,667 Units for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately $3,441,700.

Each Unit comprises one common share in the capital of the Company and one common share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of $0.10 per share commencing on January 14, 2026 until November 14, 2028.

The Units distributed in connection with the Offering were issued and sold pursuant to the "Listed Issuer Financing Exemption" available under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions ("NI 45-106") and other exemptions under 45-106. All Units issued under the Listed Issuer Exemption are not subject to a hold period pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws and all Units issued under other exemptions under NI 45-106 are subject to a statutory four-month hold period pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws.

In connection with the Offering, the Company paid Integrity Capital Group finder fees equal to $250,000 and issued a total of 4,000,000 finder warrants ("Finder Warrants"). Each Finder Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of $0.10 per common share until November 14, 2028. The Finder's Warrants and common shares issuable upon exercise of the Finder's Warrants, are subject to a statutory four-month hold period pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws.

The net proceeds from the sale of the Units will be used to advance exploration activity of the Company's lithium properties in Quebec and for working capital and general corporate purposes, as more particularly described in the Company's offering document under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

The Offering remains subject to the final acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange.

Related Party Disclosure

Certain insiders of the Company subscribed for a total of approximately $150,000 Units. The participation by insiders constitutes "related party transactions" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Shareholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company has relied on applicable exemptions from the formal valuation and minority approval requirements in Sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a), respectively, of MI 61-101. No new insiders were created, nor has there been any change of control, as a result of the Offering. The Company did not file a material change report with respect to the insider participation more than 21 days before the expected closing of the Offering, as the details and amounts of the insider participation were not finalized until closer to the closing and the Company wished to close the transaction as soon as practicable for sound business reasons.

The securities described herein have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the U.S. or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons absent registration or an applicable exemption from the 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 any State in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

About Consolidated Lithium Metals

CLM is a Canadian junior mining exploration company trading under the symbol "CLM" on the TSX Venture Exchange and "Z36" on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. The Company is focused on the exploration and development of critical mineral projects in stable jurisdictions. The Company is committed to supporting the energy transition through the responsible development of critical mineral supply chains.

Additional information on CLM can be found on its website at: www.consolidatedlithium.com and by reviewing its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

For Further Information, Contact:

Rene Bharti

Vice President Corp. Dev.

Email: info@consolidatedlithium.com

Phone: +1 (647) 965 2173

Website: www.consolidatedlithium.com

Advisors: Wildeboer Dellelce LLP acted as legal counsel for CLM in respect of the Offering.

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 the Offering, regulatory and final TSXV approvals of the Offering and the intended use of proceeds of the Offering. 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 CLM to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including risks related to: regulatory approvals, such as approval of the TSXV of the Offering; general business, economic, competitive, political, social, and market conditions; accidents, labour disputes and shortages; and other risks of the mining industry. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this press release and CLM 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.

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.
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced a counternarcotics military operation called "Southern Spear" in the Western Hemisphere.

"I'm announcing Operation SOUTHERN SPEAR," Hegseth said Thursday on X, noting that it will be led by the Joint Task Force Southern Spear in coordination with the U.S. Southern Command.

"President (Donald) Trump ordered action - and the Department of War is delivering," Hegseth said. "This mission defends our Homeland, removes narco-terrorists from our Hemisphere, and secures our Homeland from the drugs that are killing our people."

"The Western Hemisphere is America's neighborhood - and we will protect it," he added without revealing more details.

Earlier on Thursday, the Pentagon replaced two long-standing bronze plaques at two of its entrances in Arlington, Virginia, with newly cast, 60-pound insignia reading "Department of War."

Hegseth tightened the final screw on one of the plaques, according to a Pentagon release.

"We love everything that the Department of Defense represented," the defense secretary said. "But this is a new era of the Department of War that is focused on winning wars ... and making sure that we know exactly what the mission is and that the troops are sent there to succeed and win."

"And of course, the whole goal is to deter wars in the first place ... to establish peace," Hegseth added.

This week, Trump received briefings on potential military options inside Venezuela, though he has not approved any plan, CNN reported, citing four sources. The network said Trump is still weighing the risks and benefits of expanding U.S. military action in the South American country.

In January, the Southern Command announced in a press release an operation also called "Operation Southern Spear" in the U.S. Southern Command Area of Responsibility, which includes the land mass of Latin America south of Mexico, the waters adjacent to Central and South America, and the Caribbean Sea.

It said the operation would utilize "long-dwell robotic surface vessels, small robotic interceptor boats, and vertical take-off and landing robotic air vessels" to help fight the alleged drug cartels.

It remains unclear how the newly announced mission relates to the version launched earlier this year.

U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean has reached its largest scale in more than three decades, and aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford is now deployed in the region. 
SOCHI, Russia, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- A delegation of the Communist Party of China (CPC), led by Liu Haixing, minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, attended the 11th Meeting of the dialogue mechanism between the ruling parties of China and Russia from Wednesday to Saturday in Sochi, Russia.

Both sides agreed that the ruling parties of China and Russia should follow the important consensus reached by Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, strengthen communication on policies and visions, promote practical cooperation, deepen exchanges at all levels, coordinate more closely in multilateral areas, and advance the relations between the two parties and the two countries to higher levels.

During the meeting, Liu exchanged views with Dmitry Medvedev, chairman of the United Russia party, and attended the standing committee meeting of the "Forum of Supporters of the Struggle Against Modern Practices of Neocolonialism -- For the Freedom of Nations!" 
Attorney General Douglas Moylan used Wednesdays forum on Guams three strikes law to criticize Gov. Lou Leon Guerreros administration of corruption and failing to prevent methamphetamine from flooding Guam.

He said the governments failure to inspect incoming cargo and monitor coastal activity has allowed meth to enter Guam through maritime routes.

Moylan and Leon Guerrero have sued each others offices over different issues, with the governors office also pointing to the AGs alleged illegal hiring and other questionable practices.

The AG, during Wednesdays forum, linked the administrations failures to rising violent crimes, including two high-profile 2024 murders: the Korean tourist murder in January and the Valentines Day murder.

The governor is corrupther administration is corrupt, and what its doing is its killing us because shes letting in that type of drug for this island, Moylan said at the public forum at the University of Guam. Why isnt she going through every container in that port? This is an island. Theres only two ways youre going to get on here, through the ocean or in a plane.

PDN has reached out to Adelup but has not received any official comment as of press time.

Moylan spoke as one of six panelists at the Three Strikes Law Forum, part of the UOGs Fall 2025 Criminal Justice Capstone Forum, which examined mandatory sentencing and judicial discretion under Guams three strikes law.

Port inspection

Moylan said its the Port Authority of Guam and over the oceans where the Chinese boats are meeting up, probably with these fishing boats, and theyre not monitoring the ports coming in in the south, he said. The governor of Guam is responsible for our safety.

He accused the governor of ignoring security measures approved in 2023, including 18 trained canines authorized by the Opioid Council to detect drugs.

Why did it take customs over two years to get those dogs? Moylan asked. Something is going on.

The Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency told the Pacific Daily News that nine of the 18 new drug detector dogs were presented at a ceremony at the Ricardo J. Bordallo Governors Complex on Nov. 12, 2024.

Five remain with CQA, while two each were transferred to the Guam Police Department and the Guam Department of Corrections K-9 units.

CQA said the dogs are fully deployable, with ongoing training for both dogs and handlers.

The remaining nine are being selected and transported from Florida, pending fiscal year funding.

The agency said it maintains active enforcement operations with local and federal partners, including the U.S. Coast Guard and Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Customs.

Recent maritime operations have not encountered unannounced illegal arrivals, and coastal surveillance continues at key areas. A counter-drug liaison from the Guam National Guard also supports these efforts.

Moylan linked the islands drug trafficking to violent crimes, citing the Korean tourist murder and the Valentines Day killing as examples of how meth addiction drives violence.

We need to lock them up and keep them away from society so theyre not eventually killing us, he said. The guy that killed the Korean tourist... he took that drug. He was an adult drug court candidate, as well as the Valentines Day murder.

He described meth as a substance regenerated to make it more addictive to the brain, and criticized the rehabilitation approach.

Ask the adult drug court to do a study. What is the recidivism rate? Moylan said. Theyre not publishing it. The last time they did was in 1997. The percentage of people coming out successful is very low.

Data

According to the latest Pretrial Performance Snapshot, the Judiciary of Guam reported that 28.6% of defendants awaiting case disposition as of June 2025 were released under supervision, while 71.4% remained detained.

Of the 1,756 defendants awaiting resolution, 502 were released on supervision and 1,254 detained.

Among those released, 92.1%1,155 individualswere not charged with a new crime, while 7.9%, or 99 defendants, were charged with a new jailable offense.

The Judiciary also reported that 97.7% of defendants on pretrial release1,225 of 1,254were not charged with a new violent crime, while 2.3%, or 29 defendants, were charged with a new violent offense.

These measures reflect the Judiciarys evidence-based approach to balancing community safety with fair pretrial practices, aiming to protect the public while ensuring defendants return to court.

Rehabilitation

Guam Police Chief Stephen Ignacio, a member of the governors cabinet, immediately distanced himself from Moylans corruption allegations.

As a member of the cabinet, I want to make sure that Im not being labeled as corrupt, because Im definitely not a corrupt person, Ignacio said.

While agreeing that violent offenders should remain behind bars, Ignacio said rehabilitation programs can help nonviolent users rebuild their lives.

When were dealing with violent felony offenders, yes, they need to be confined, he said. But we need to look at the offender and see if theres a chance that maybe this person is willing to go through rehabilitation. There have been some very successful stories.

Burglaries dropped

Department of Corrections Director Fred Bordallo Jr. presented data showing that while meth possession arrests have surged, burglaries have dropped.

In 2022, there were 105 burglary charges. In 2024 it dropped to 89. During the same period, possession went from 223 to 402, Bordallo said. So we know more people are using meth, but theyre not necessarily committing serious crimes.

Bordallo described overcrowded, inhumane prison conditions.

Theyre not even sleeping on mattresses. Theyre sleeping on bed frames, he said. One guy told me they gave him a single blanket, no pillow. He laid on the floor, feet up against the urinal.

Stephen Hattori, executive director of the Guam Public Defender Service Corporation, called for more rehabilitation programs and fewer punitive measures.

My proposal is more focused on expanding drug treatment opportunities, Hattori said. The Lighthouse Recovery Office is one model. The three-legged stool when it comes down to the threats of drugs is enforcement, drug treatment and education. Lets do the drug treatment right.

Superior Court Magistrate Judge Jonathan Quan urged factual accuracy and caution when referencing ongoing court cases.

Factual accuracy is absolutely essential to ensure the proper response to an issue, Quan said. Assumptions can lead to innocent people being hurt or blamed.

Quan noted that both the Korean tourist and Valentines Day murder cases are still pending before the courts, restricting his ability to comment directly.

Has anyone actually checked if the people involved were repeat offenders with drug cases? he asked. Attorney General Moylans office does a good job of filing pretrial requests for confinement, but I encourage everyone to look at the public records before making assumptions.

Increased confiscation

Customs and Quarantine, meanwhile, reported ongoing enforcement initiatives to counter drug trafficking.

Its Special Enforcement Division, including the Drug Detector Dog Unit, Contraband Enforcement Team, and Maritime Interdiction Task Force, has conducted multiple border interdiction operations in collaboration with local and federal partners.

Public campaigns also encourage the community to report suspicious activity.

Methamphetamine interdictions have increased over recent years, with seizures totaling:

44 lbs. in 2019

110 lbs. in 2020

195 lbs. in 2021

104 lbs. in 2022

49 lbs. in 2023

215 lbs. in 2024

252 lbs. in 2025

The agency stated that since 2019, over 969 lbs. of meth have been seized at Guams borders.
MANILA, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masato Kanda said Saturday that the ADB plans to invest up to 2.5 billion U.S. dollars to support Azerbaijan's development priorities.

"ADB remains committed to supporting Azerbaijan's transformation into a regional hub linking Central Asia and Europe," Kanda said during a meeting with Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev in Baku.

"We are working alongside the government and the private sector to deliver substantial investments in smart mobility infrastructure, renewable energy, digitalization, and skills development," Kanda said.

To help diversify Azerbaijan's export mix and reach new markets, the ADB is building green and efficient infrastructure, said the Manila-based bank in a press release.

Major regional projects such as the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation Corridor 2 and the Trans-Caspian Green Energy Corridor enhance connectivity, facilitate trade, and will enable the transfer of renewable energy resources from Central Asia to European markets, the ADB added. 
Guam National Guard Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. Michael Cruz, resigned from his position effective Friday.

Cruz sent a letter of resignation to Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero on Friday and said his resignation as adjutant general of the Guam National Guard was effective close of business that day.

Sen. Shawn Gumataotao, who has oversight of the Guam National Guard, released a statement on Friday saying the resignation came as a great surprise.

The ceremonial transfer of our Guam National Guard leadership will not happen. This is disappointing for all the soldiers and airmen who deserve a formal process that symbolizes tradition, stability and pride, he said.

Gumataotao said he awaits the formal appointment of Cruzs replacement so that his legislative committee can begin the process to confirm the nomination of the senior military officer of the Guam National Guard and director of the Guam Department of Military Affairs as soon as possible.

I wish to thank General Cruz for his dedicated years of service to our island and nation. We are a stronger community because of his work across critical leadership roles in local government, health care, and the Guam National Guard, he said.

Cruz, in his letter to the governor, said the start date for the new adjutant general has been established for Monday, Nov. 17.

The governors office previously said retired Col. Karin Watson would replace Cruz.

"We salute Brig. Gen. Mike Cruz for his lifetime of faithful service to our island, including as adjutant general and as a Guam Guardsman for nearly 40 years," Guard spokesperson Mark Scott in a statement.

He said under Cruz's leadership, the Guard expanded the State Partnership Program to include Palau and the Marshall Islands, expanded recruiting in the NMI, won national awards for Air Missile Defense, set records for community service, and strengthened relationships all around.

"We offer Brig. Gen. Cruz and family best wishes on his future endeavors and we wish him Godspeed. We look forward to meeting our new TAG, returning our focus to the mission, and getting back to the important work of our Soldiers and Airmen," Scott said.

Adelup spokesperson Krystal Paco-San Agustin, in a statement Friday, thanked Cruz for his many years of honorable service to the people of Guam and to the men and women of the Guam National Guard.

His dedication, professionalism, and lifelong commitment to service are deeply respected. No transition is ever easyespecially in an institution as important as the Guardbut we remain grateful for General Cruzs contributions and leadership during his tenure, she said.

Paco-San Agustin said all actions taken in the transition follow the requirements of Guam law and the established authorities governing the Department of Military Affairs and the Office of the Adjutant General.

The administration has adhered to all legal standards and continues to ensure that our processes remain responsible, and consistent with the statutes that guide us, she said.

Paco-San Agustin said the administrations priority now is to support a smooth transition for the Guard, provide stability for Soldiers, Airmen, and civilian personnel, and ensure continuity of mission.

We remain confident in the strength and professionalism of the Guam National Guard and the men and women who serve our island with honor, she said.

Retirement

It was just last month when Cruz said he would be retiring within a year after taking the helm of the Guard in 2023.

Cruz told the Pacific Daily News in October that his mandatory retirement date from the military will come Sept. 30, 2026, when he attains 40 years in service.

A letter of intent to retire was sent to the governor in March, according to Cruz, a surgeon and Guams lieutenant governor from January 2007 to January 2011.

He said mandatory retirement age is usually 60, but extensions are given to doctors and adjutant generals, of which he is both.

In his Friday resignation letter, Cruz said his service in this role was never about personal standing or title, but about the credibility, reputation, and stability of the Guam National Guard.

Lack of notification

He said he has documented concerns regarding the lack of notification, irregular timing and absence of standard military transition practices in the current process.

In order to avoid ambiguity in command authority and in service to the organization, rather than to myself, I believe it is in the Guards best interest for me to formally step aside at this time, Cruz wrote to Leon Guerrero.

He said although the transition is abrupt and does not reflect the customary standards afforded in military changes of command or assumptions of command, he will honor the necessity of providing clarity for the organization.

I also express my sincere apologies that during your tenure as Commander in Chief of the Guam National Guard, all three TAG transitions have occurred in this mannerabruptly, without the smooth and professional turnover the military normally upholds. I regret that our Soldiers, Airmen, and civilians have again experienced such a transition as they deserve the stability and dignity that proper processes provide, Cruz said.

He said despite the circumstances, it has been the honor of my career to lead the Guam National Guard and to serve the people of Guam.

My commitment has always beenand remainsto the welfare of men and women who serve, and to the enduring strength of this great institution, Cruz said in his letter to Leon Guerrero.

The governor previously said when she asked Cruz to be adjutant general, they both agreed it was going to be temporary until they found someone eligible to take over.

Leon Guerrero has said that person is Karin Watson and that she is a daughter of Guam.




Haiti - Education : Tribute to the national Laureates of the State exams (List)





On Friday, November 14, 2025, Presidential Advisor Smith Augustin participated in the ceremony honoring the top-performing national students in the 2024-2025 national State exams, held at the Montana Hotel in Petion-ville. Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime, members of the government, Ambassador Cheng-hao Hu of Taiwan (Republic of China), Ambassador Antoine Michon of France to Haiti, the representative of the Mexican Embassy, and members of international technical and financial organizations were also present.



In his address, Smith Augustin commended the laureates for their academic rigor and urged them to remain role models for young people, stating that their success marks the beginning of many victories in their lives. He also announced that the current administration, despite the challenges, remains committed to making education its top priority. Allocating the largest share of the 2025-2026 budget, representing 16% of the total amount of over 54 billion gourdes,



He nevertheless emphasized the need to pool all resources to ensure the collective success of high school graduates and thus raise the average pass rate on state exams.



Antoine Augustin, the Minister of National Education, confirmed the awarding of scholarships by the Taiwanese Embassy to the honorees recognized during the ceremony.



The eight recipients honored at the ceremony by the Presidential Transitional Council (CPT) and the Government are : Thalantina Rozier, Frederic-Leonel Francois, Leguirne Brevil, Robinho Julien, Melissa Samedi, Christina Laguerre, Jephte Pierre, and Christelle Angerville.



They received books and a laptop computer as prizes. An honorary certificate and a check from the Ministry for an amount ranging from 150,000 to 500,000 gourdes.



HL/Hl HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Security : The GSF is dangerously underfunded says Marco Rubio





On Wednesday, January 12, 2025, speaking in Canada on the sidelines of a regional security briefing, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the Kenyan-led mission remains dangerously underfunded, with only 1,000 officers deployed out of the 5,500 required by the United Nations Security Council in its resolution 2793 of September 30, 2025. https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45891-haiti-flash-the-security-council-has-voted-for-the-new-gang-repression-force.html



The United States is urging the international community to urgently increase its financial and military support for the FRG in Haiti, stressing that Kenya cannot undertake this operation alone given the escalating violence in the Caribbean nation.



Rubio noted that Washington had already funded the first phase of the GSF transition but stressed that other countries must step in to fund the remaining months and provide additional personnel.



He described the situation in Haiti as a "hemispheric crisis" requiring shared responsibility, not a burden Kenya should bear alone.



This transition has resulted in the creation of a new United Nations Support Office and the establishment of logistical structures managed by the Organization of American States (OAS). However, Rubio indicated that the mission is now hampered by a significant funding shortfall. Washington is urging member states, particularly in the Caribbean and Latin America, to contribute to the force. Rubio stated that the United States is in daily contact with countries that could potentially contribute troops.



"We welcome Kenyas leadership, and we are grateful for what the Kenyans have done. But we believe there must be greater hemispheric participation. This is a regional crisis. Countries in this hemisphere need to take responsibility."



"We cannot allow Haiti to descend further into crisis," he said. "And we cannot expect Kenya to carry this burden alone."



SL/ HaitiLibre


















The US demand for direct and extensive access to biometric police databases of the EU and its member states has triggered a debate among EU countries regarding the modalities, legal basis, and data protection for such an agreement. In principle, European governments do not reject the "Partnership for Enhanced Border Security" offered to them, as revealed by a Council of Ministers document leaked by the civil liberties organization Statewatch, outlining the positions of EU states. However, there are still concerns in detail.

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In essence, US law enforcement agencies and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are demanding access to national police immigration databases. They aim to identify individuals who could pose a "threat to US security." The initiative, titled Enhanced Border Security Partnership (EBSP), aims to match travelers' fingerprints and facial images with data from their own databases in the areas of crime and terrorism.

In 2023, the EU Commission presented a proposal for a framework agreement to enable bilateral agreements between US authorities and EU countries. The biggest incentive for complying with this request lies in maintaining their participation in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which allows their citizens to travel to the US without a visa. Washington threatens to withdraw this privilege if the EU denies the requested access rights. Since almost all EU countries participate in the VWP, there is, according to the confidential Council document, a willingness to generally reach an agreement.

German Federal Government Advocates for Clear Limits

However, the scope of US access is contested. Washington has a strong interest not only in querying national databases but also in gaining direct access to large central EU information systems such as the Visa Information System (VIS), the shared Biometric Matching Service (sBMS), and the Common Identity Repository (CIR). Such direct access by a third country to EU databases would be unprecedented and would require agreements extending beyond the scope of the current Commission proposal. Austria, for example, signals openness to exploring ways.

The concerns of many member states focus on the protection of sensitive data and the automation of processes. Countries like the Netherlands, Austria, France, and Italy reject automated transmission of personal background information and biometric characteristics in case of a hit without human verification.

The Netherlands, instead, calls for information exchange based on "Hit/No-Hit" requests, where additional information is shared after a hit only with the consent of the responsible authorities through appropriate channels. While the German Federal Government signals openness to an EU agreement, it wants to impose clear limits on US authorities. It strictly denies direct access to foreign databases and wants a deletion regulation.

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Italy emphasizes that direct access must not occur under any circumstances. Systematic or routine queries of individuals without prior suspicion must be excluded. In contrast, the Czech Republic advocates for the broadest possible agreement, including automated decision-making.

Deal by End of 2026 Unrealistic

The proposed data transfer is intended to verify whether a traveler's entry or stay could pose a risk to "public safety or order." Lithuania and Belgium demand a more precise definition of these "ambiguous" terms. They want to ensure that the agreement only concerns the fight against crime or terrorist offenses.

The choice of legal basis in the EU treaties is also an issue. France argues that negotiating an EBSP framework agreement is not an exclusive EU competence, as the proposals also touch upon areas of national jurisdiction. Together with Ireland, Paris therefore pushes for closer involvement of the member states in the negotiation process. Ireland, which is not part of the Schengen area, also fears being excluded from discussions despite its VWP participation.

Finally, the tight deadlines set by the US are causing discontent. Estonia and the Netherlands consider the request to conclude all relevant agreements by the end of 2026 to be unrealistic. The latter points to the complexity of the matter, the necessary approval of the EU Parliament, and the subsequent negotiation and approval of bilateral agreements by national parliaments. Discussions in the Council on the extensive biometric data transfer are ongoing.

(mho)

Don't miss any news  follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Mastodon. This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical assistance and editorially reviewed before publication.
The man entered Finland near Kitee on 17 June. He was detected by the Border Guards surveillance systems before patrols detained him close to the frontier. Officials described the response as routine and said the mans background was examined from the first moments of the operation.

A Russian man who crossed into Finland without permission in June has been removed from the country, according to a statement from the North Karelia Border Guard. The agency confirmed that he had a military background and said it was releasing details in response to public claims about his identity that surfaced over the summer.

Finnish newspaper Yle previously identified the man as Jevgeni, a Russian citizen who had presented himself on social media as a fighter for the Wagner paramilitary group. In July, Yle reported that the authorities were holding a former member of the organisation. Images from his online accounts showed him in military clothing and referring to his role in fighting in eastern Ukraine.

Sources told both Helsingin Sanomat and Yle that the man had sought asylum after crossing the forested border. He told officials he was fleeing the war and feared for his safety if returned to Russia.

The Border Guard said that it would not address claims about the mans past beyond confirming that he had a military background. It did not specify whether he had served in the Russian armed forces, Wagner, or another formation.

Yle reported that it had located several images appearing to place Jevgeni in eastern Ukraine. Some of the posts included statements in which he criticised Russian military leadership. His social media activity suggested he had presented himself openly as a Wagner fighter before leaving Russia.

HT
Speaking aboard Air Force One on Friday evening, Trump said he had sort of made up my mind about Venezuela but provided no further detail. His comments came after two days of deliberations in Washington involving top security officials, including Vice President JD Vance , Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth , Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine , and Secretary of State Marco Rubio .

President Donald Trump has indicated that he has reached a decision on a possible military operation targeting Venezuela, raising the prospect of US-led action in Latin America for the first time in nearly two decades.

The US has assembled a significant military force near Venezuelan waters, including the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier strike group, supported by guided missile cruisers, destroyers, amphibious ships, and long-range bombers. More than 15,000 US troops are now positioned across the Caribbean and surrounding areas, alongside forward deployments to Puerto Rico, according to The Washington Post.

This marks the largest US military presence in Latin America in decades. It follows a series of airstrikes since September on vessels the US claims were smuggling narcotics. The campaign, now officially called Operation Southern Spear, has resulted in at least 21 attacks and the deaths of around 80 individuals.

Washington insists the campaign is focused on drug interdiction and classifies the targets as narco-terrorists. However, critics have challenged the legal basis for the strikes, citing the lack of transparent evidence and growing fears that the operations true goal is political.

The Trump administration has accused Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro of overseeing a regime supported by drug cartels, and it increased a reward for information leading to his arrest from $25 million to $50 million earlier this year. Trump has previously alleged Maduro is responsible for sending drugs and criminals to the US and described his government as illegitimate.

Analysts and regional observers have pointed out inconsistencies in the US justification. The use of naval airstrikes against boats at sea has drawn comparisons to extrajudicial killings. An investigation by Associated Press later identified some of the victims as low-level traffickers and individuals with no known links to armed groups.

The BBC reported that international legal experts, including former ICC prosecutor Luis Moreno Ocampo, have warned that these strikes could amount to crimes against humanity if proven to target civilians without due process.

Despite the official rationale, CBS News reported that internal discussions in Washington have considered broader options, including limited strikes on Venezuelan territory and covert operations. Trump has acknowledged authorising CIA activities in Venezuela, but their nature remains classified.

The possible military strike contradicts public statements made to US lawmakers. Defence Secretary Hegseth and Secretary of State Rubio had earlier assured members of Congress that no offensive action against Venezuela was under consideration. This helped to defeat legislative efforts to restrict presidential war powers.

As pressure mounts, so too does speculation about the real objectives. While the Trump administration publicly frames the operation as counter-narcotics, its scale, composition, and lack of transparency have fuelled suspicions that regime change is the underlying motive.

Venezuela has responded with a mass mobilisation. Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez said that nearly 200,000 military and militia personnel have been deployed nationwide in an effort to deter foreign aggression. The exercise, launched under the Independence Plan 200, also aims to strengthen military readiness amid the threat of conflict.

Padrino described the mobilisation as necessary against imperialist aggression and accused opposition forces inside Venezuela of colluding with foreign powers. Foreign Minister Yvan Gil stated that the country is prepared for conflict, warning the US not to interfere.

Despite the size of the mobilisation, Venezuelas ability to withstand a conventional US military assault is limited. Its air force is reportedly weakened by sanctions and a shortage of spare parts. According to a recent CSIS report, of Venezuela's 49 aircraft, only 30 are believed to be operational, and only three F-16s remain in flying condition.

However, Venezuela does possess Russian-supplied Su-30 fighter jets capable of carrying anti-ship missiles, and these assets pose some risk to US naval forces operating nearby. Venezuelas military doctrine, rooted in Chavismo, has historically emphasised resistance to foreign intervention and maintaining internal unity.

The US militarys presence in the Caribbean includes advanced platforms more suited to power projection than drug interdiction. The Ford-class aircraft carrier, for example, is built for large-scale strike operations, not coastal patrols. Military adviser Mark Cancian noted that its deployment cannot be sustained indefinitely and may force a decisive outcome.

Meanwhile, US officials have confirmed discussions with Mexico and Colombia aimed at managing the regional fallout. Mexicos President Claudia Sheinbaum said her government had reiterated opposition to airstrikes near its territory and emphasised the importance of respecting maritime agreements. Colombia briefly suspended intelligence cooperation with Washington, citing human rights concerns.

On Capitol Hill, lawmakers have voiced unease over the operation. A Democratic lawmaker, speaking anonymously to The Washington Post, expressed doubt about the Pentagons motives, citing a trust deficit.

While the US constitution requires Congressional approval for acts of war, the Trump administration claims its actions are legal under the doctrine of collective self-defence. A classified memo reportedly compares narcotics trafficking to the use of chemical weapons and frames drug cartels as unlawful combatants.

The legal argument has drawn scepticism. Dan Maurer, a former Army judge advocate, told The Washington Post that the rationale does not align with international law. Harbouring drug runners has never been considered a use of force under international law, he said.

Some reports have also suggested that economic interests may be influencing policy. Venezuela holds the worlds largest proven oil reserves, and according to the New York Times, Trump has expressed interest in securing access to these resources in exchange for avoiding conflict.

Discussions between the US and Maduros representatives regarding oil concessions reportedly occurred in recent months, though no agreement was reached.

As of mid-November, US military assets in the region include seven warships in the Caribbean and several others nearby in the Atlantic, supported by stealth fighters and long-range bombers.

Although Trump said he doubts war is imminent, his administration continues to deploy assets and issue warnings. Maduro, in response, called for restraint.

No more forever wars. No more Libya. No more Afghanistan, he said in a recent CNN interview.

HT
WUHAN, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- On Saturday morning, a high-speed freight rail line was launched, connecting Wuhan, capital of central China's Hubei Province, with Guangzhou, capital of south China's Guangdong Province.

Trains on the line travel at speeds of up to 350 kilometers per hour, enabling direct deliveries between the central China metropolis and the transportation hub in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

Zhang Ting, manager of the Hankou Station business department at China Railway Express Co., Ltd., said the Wuhan-Guangzhou freight line will primarily serve time-sensitive goods such as fresh food, biomedicine and electronic products. The trains feature specialized packaging and temperature-monitoring systems to ensure products arrive in optimal condition.

Previously, several high-speed freight lines had been launched, including the Kunming-Chengdu, Zhengzhou-Chongqing and Nanchang-Shenzhen railway express services.

The launch of this new line is expected to facilitate the coordinated development of the central China region and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. 
LONDON, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- South Wales Fire and Rescue Service declared a major incident in South Wales in the early hours of Saturday following severe flooding across the town and surrounding communities, said the service.

The service agency set the alarm in Monmouth at 1:30 a.m., saying on its website that fire and rescue crews are working throughout the area alongside police, ambulance services, and other rescue support through the night and into the day.

Teams have been carrying out rescues, evacuations, welfare checks, and moving residents from affected areas to safe places, the agency said. However, conditions remain challenging due to fast-moving water, blocked routes, and continued pressure on local infrastructure.

Area Manager Matt Jones said the flooding is "significant."

The incident came after Storm Claudia. Local media reported that more rain and flooding are expected across Britain and Ireland on Saturday. 
NEW DELHI, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- At least seven people were killed and around 30 others injured in a massive explosion inside a police station in Indian-controlled Kashmir, local media reports said Saturday.

The explosion took place late Friday at Nowgam police station in Srinagar, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir.

"At least seven people were killed and around 30 injured after a massive explosion tore through the Nowgam police station in Srinagar late Friday night, with officials warning the toll could rise," a local television news channel India Today said.

Following the explosion, a fire engulfed the building and several vehicles parked inside its premises. Eyewitnesses and video footage from the area show the blast ripping through the building, sending flames and thick smoke into the air.

According to the channel, the explosion happened while policemen and forensic teams were handling the explosive material brought from Faridabad (Haryana) and stored inside the police station as part of the investigation into the recent car bomb explosion in Delhi.

Another media report said most of those killed at the police station are policemen and forensic team officials, who were examining the explosives.

Police have not issued any statement on the explosion so far.

Immediately after the blast, many fire tenders and ambulances were rushed to the police station to douse the fire and remove the injured to the nearest hospitals.

A deadly car explosion near the Red Fort in Delhi on Monday killed eight people on the spot and injured 20 others. However, local media reports later put the death toll at 13. 
TAIPEI, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Young scholars and representatives of various sectors in Taiwan discussed possible approaches to the peaceful reunification of the two sides of the Taiwan Strait at a forum hosted by the Sanhe practice institute, a local think tank, on Saturday.

A major question was raised at the forum: In a critical stage of the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, where should Taiwan go?

In response, young participant Mao Zhi-yuan said that reunification is underway, calling it a "historical inevitability."

"What the people of Taiwan should do is help advance negotiations and propose a solution to peaceful reunification that best serves Taiwan's interests," he said.

Tan Chuan-shao, a member of the New Party in Taiwan, outlined a three-step approach to peaceful reunification: People in Taiwan should acknowledge the reality that cross-Strait relations should not be shelved, foster open debate to broaden public understanding, and put forward Taiwan's own proposals on how to realize peaceful reunification.

"Today's people in Taiwan should take the initiative to seek peaceful reunification, instead of leaving future generations to bear the burden," he said.

Lin Wun-hau, a young resident of Taiwan who has lived in both Xiamen and Kinmen, said that Kinmen's transformation from a front line of conflict to a hub of exchange offers valuable lessons for cross-Strait relations.

"Kinmen's experience shows that integrating with the mainland does not mean losing one's identity but finding a wiser path to coexistence," Lin said.

"Reunification is not an end point but a beginning," young participant Su Heng said. "Reunification will not make Taiwan disappear -- it will only make Taiwan stronger." 
A Chinese government spokesperson on Saturday urged the United States to approach the Taiwan question with utmost prudence. #XinhuaNews
JERUSALEM, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone conversation on Saturday evening, during which the two leaders exchanged views on the Middle East situation, according to statements from both sides.

Netanyahu's office said in a statement that the two leaders spoke at Putin's initiative, following a series of previous talks on regional issues. It did not provide further information on the talks.

According to the Russian presidency, the two leaders exchanged in details the recent developments in Gaza in light of the ceasefire, Iran's nuclear program, and Syria's further stabilization, among other issues.

On Thursday, Russia introduced its own draft UN resolution on Gaza, challenging a U.S. push for the UN Security Council to approve a separate proposal that would support U.S. President Donald Trump's Gaza peace plan.

According to media reports, the U.S. proposal wants an international stabilization force in Gaza with broad independence from the UN, and grants Israel continued control over the security perimeter surrounding Gaza for an unspecified period.

Meanwhile, the Russian proposal focuses on creating an international stabilization force under direct UN authority, opposes to any demographic or territorial changes in Gaza, and urges implementing the two-state solution. 
Turkiye holds funeral for 20 soldiers killed in military plane crash

Xinhua) 10:44, November 15, 2025

People mourn next to the coffins of soldiers killed in a Turkish military cargo plane crash, in Ankara, Turkiye, on Nov. 14, 2025. Turkiye on Friday held a funeral service for 20 soldiers who died in a military cargo plane crash. A solemn military ceremony was held at Ankara's Murted Air Base, attended by the soldiers' families, senior political figures, and top commanders of the Turkish Armed Forces. Following the ceremony, the bodies will be sent to their hometowns for burial. A Turkish Air Force C-130 cargo aircraft crashed in Georgia near the border with Azerbaijan on Tuesday, killing all 20 military personnel on board, including a 10-member maintenance team supporting F-16 fighter jets. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua)

ANKARA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Turkiye on Friday held a funeral service for 20 soldiers who died in a military cargo plane crash.

A solemn military ceremony was held at Ankara's Murted Air Base, attended by the soldiers' families, senior political figures, and top commanders of the Turkish Armed Forces. Following the ceremony, the bodies will be sent to their hometowns for burial.

The bodies were repatriated to Turkiye late Thursday. After landing in Ankara, the coffins were placed into funeral vehicles and transported in a convoy to the Ankara Forensic Medicine Institute. Television footage showed hundreds of people waving Turkish flags as they gathered in front of the institute to receive the convoy.

A Turkish Air Force C-130 cargo aircraft crashed in Georgia near the border with Azerbaijan on Tuesday, killing all 20 military personnel on board, including a 10-member maintenance team supporting F-16 fighter jets.

Search-and-rescue teams had recovered the remains of all 20 soldiers following the incident, and the bodies were transferred to Tbilisi before being flown to Turkiye aboard an A400M military transport aircraft belonging to the Turkish Armed Forces.

On Thursday, the Turkish Defense Ministry said that all C-130 flights were suspended as a precaution, noting that the aircraft would return to service after detailed technical inspections are completed.

The ministry also confirmed that the aircraft's black box had been brought to Ankara for examination.

People mourn during a funeral service for soldiers killed in a Turkish military cargo plane crash, in Ankara, Turkiye, on Nov. 14, 2025. Turkiye on Friday held a funeral service for 20 soldiers who died in a military cargo plane crash.

A solemn military ceremony was held at Ankara's Murted Air Base, attended by the soldiers' families, senior political figures, and top commanders of the Turkish Armed Forces. Following the ceremony, the bodies will be sent to their hometowns for burial.

A Turkish Air Force C-130 cargo aircraft crashed in Georgia near the border with Azerbaijan on Tuesday, killing all 20 military personnel on board, including a 10-member maintenance team supporting F-16 fighter jets. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Liang Jun)
DAMASCUS, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Two people were killed and several others wounded on Saturday evening after unidentified gunmen opened fire inside a cafe in the western countryside of the central Syrian province of Homs, Syria's interior authorities said in a statement.

The statement said the attackers carried out random gunfire inside the crowded cafe before fleeing the scene. Local authorities immediately cordoned off the area and began collecting evidence to identify the perpetrators.

According to the authorities, specialized units have launched a full investigation into the circumstances of the attack and are working "to apprehend the culprits and bring them to justice," while additional security measures have been taken to protect civilians and maintain public order.

No further details were released regarding the number of injuries or the motives behind the attack. 
GAZA, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Dozens of volunteers began cleaning the streets of Gaza City on Saturday, braving the rainy weather to restore vital infrastructure and remove rubble and debris left by the two-year war between Israel and Hamas, as part of a broader volunteer campaign.

Gaza Municipality launched the campaign in partnership with the Gaza Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture and the Palestinian NGO Network, aiming to "shine a light of hope for community participation in construction and reconstruction," according to a statement published by the municipality on its official Facebook page.

Hosny Muhanna, Gaza Municipality's public relations officer, told Xinhua that the campaign aims to remove waste and rubble, plant trees along the streets, and restore beauty to the war-torn city.

For Yahya al-Sarraj, mayor of Gaza City, the campaign was launched to prove that the Palestinian people "will remain on their land," and that all Israeli attempts to "break them" will fail.

"When we see young people, men, children, and the elderly participating in this campaign, it sends a message to the world that Gaza is capable of life," al-Sarraj said during his participation in the campaign.

Echoing the mayor, Amjad al-Shawa, head of the Palestinian NGO Network, said the campaign is the beginning of the path toward a larger goal of removing 60 million tons of rubble covering the Gaza Strip as a result of the war, in order to rebuild Gaza City "better than it was" before the war.

Ayed Abu Ramadan, head of the Gaza Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture, said during his speech at the campaign that Gaza has been subjected to killing and destruction over the past two years, but has also proven its ability to "rise from the rubble again."

Volunteer Ibrahim Hassan, 30, from Gaza City, said he participated in the campaign because he is certain that Gaza will only return to life "by the hands of its own people."

"Life must return to Gaza, and we must begin rebuilding it, even if it takes generations of young people and children," Hassan added, as he carried a pickaxe to remove rubble from one of Gaza City's main streets.

For her part, volunteer Hanan Obeid, wearing a face mask as she removed piles of garbage from a street, said, "I am very proud to participate in this campaign," explaining that it is everyone's duty in the city to contribute to this campaign in order to quickly restore life to Gaza.

The campaign comes at a time when the Gaza Strip is suffering from a severe humanitarian crisis, amid warnings of an environmental and health crisis due to the accumulation of waste near areas where displaced people are sheltering.

Alaa al-Batta, deputy head of the Union of Municipalities in the Gaza Strip, told Xinhua that 700,000 tons of waste are piling up in makeshift dumps, which the municipalities in the enclave are unable to handle due to fuel and equipment shortages. 
ZAGREB, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Croatian and Turkish investigators carried out a joint investigation on Saturday and visited the site where the Turkish Air Tractor went down in the town of Krivi Put in the western part of the country two days ago.

The Turkish investigators will collect information and provide it to the Croatian side, Croatia's Chief Air Accident Investigator Danko Petrin said, according to the Croatian Radiotelevision (HRT).

Croatian investigators have found parts of the aircraft that could be key to the investigation, and all information collected will be shared with the Turkish side in the coming days, the HRT reported.

Meanwhile, Petrin said the cause of the crash may not be known for months, or even up to a year.

The Turkish Air Tractor AT-802, which was on a circular flight in Croatia, crashed in Krivi Put on Thursday, killing the pilot, the only person on board.

According to media reports, Air Tractor AT-802 planes are usually used in agriculture or firefighting operations. 
JOHANNESBURG, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- A Xinhua think tank report titled "Jointly Building a New Model of Global Leadership -- Work Together in Pursuit of a More Just and Rational Global Governance System," released Thursday at the Global South Media and Think Tank Forum China-Africa Partnership Conference here, has drawn strong interest from African participants from various sectors.

Participants highlighted the report's timely insights and its relevance for the urgent transformation of global governance.

According to the report, released by Xinhua Institute, a think tank affiliated with Xinhua News Agency, the world is entering a new period of turbulence and transformation, marked by overlapping crises and growing deficits in peace, development, security and governance.

At the root of these challenges, the report argues, lies a global leadership deficit, a failure of the global leadership that should guide collective responses to common risks facing humanity. The report calls for joint efforts to build a new model of global leadership and steer the evolution of a more just and rational global governance system.

African participants from various sectors said the report's framework for jointly building a new model of global leadership resonates with the needs of the times, advocating consultation over confrontation, cooperation over conflict, and multilateral synergy over unilateral dominance.

"We live in a time of profound transformation in the international system. The post-World War II governance architecture ... is increasingly being challenged in terms of relevance, equity, and legitimacy," said Balew Demissie Kebede, communication and publication consultant at the Ethiopian Policy Studies Institute.

Iqbal Surve, executive chairman of South Africa's Independent Media, said the report was released at precisely the right moment. In a world marked by conflict and disinformation, he noted, the foundations of trust are being eroded. "I think the Xinhua think tank report is a very important contribution towards greater involvement of the international Global South community," he said.

Erastus Mwencha, former deputy chairperson of the African Union Commission, said that some multilateral mechanisms formed after World War II are "not functioning efficiently." "We can all come to the table with a firm mindset, one of dialogue, or what you may call consensus-building," the chairperson said.

For decades, global economic power was concentrated in a few developed countries, giving rise to a "core-periphery" structure that disadvantaged developing nations. With the collective rise of emerging markets and developing countries, particularly BRICS, the Global South has entered a "new awakening."

Participants at the conference agreed that Global South countries have injected strong momentum into global leadership in recent years, pushing for reforms of traditional governance platforms while creating new mechanisms that reshape the global governance map. They emphasized that the Global South has become a key force advancing the transformation of the global governance system toward fairness and equity.

As a major member of the Global South, China has played a constructive role amid global changes. By sharing its development opportunities, providing a wide range of international public goods, and injecting much-needed certainty into a turbulent world, China has continued to bolster "global leadership," efforts that have received great recognition from the participants at the conference.

Nashwa Abdel Hamid, undersecretary of Egypt's State Information Service, said the China-proposed Global Governance Initiative (GGI) aims to build a more just and equitable governance system grounded in sovereign equality and true multilateralism. Following the launch of the GGI, "new opportunities emerge for African nations to shape their place in an increasingly multipolar world," said Abdel Hamid.

Mwencha added that platforms such as the GGI, Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative offer institutional channels for dialogue among Global South countries.

These initiatives not only show conceptual depth but also provide a direction for action, making the promotion of an equal and orderly multipolar world and inclusive economic globalization a practical pathway for transformation, he said.

Experts noted that deepening cooperation between China and Africa continues to strengthen the Global South and enhance its role in global governance. The evolution of China-Africa cooperation offers a practical model of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits, demonstrating that the vitality of multilateral mechanisms lies in respecting participants' individuality and focusing on common development priorities.

By working together, the participants observed that Global South countries, including China and African countries, can not only achieve sustainable development at home but also help build a more just, equitable and prosperous world.

"By working together, we can reform global governance to be more equitable and representative," said Paul Ilado, editorial director of the Kenya-based Radio Africa Group. 
GABORONE, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Youth delegates from nine African countries on Saturday gathered at the Parliament of Botswana to mark World Children's Day, issuing a strong call for their fundamental rights to safety, education, and health.

Children from Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Eswatini, Lesotho, and South Africa demanded an end to violence, poverty, and high school dropout rates. They also called for guaranteed access to nutrition, menstrual products, sanitation, and inclusive education with trained teachers for learners with disabilities.

Botswana's President Duma Boko said this year's theme, "My Day, My Rights," challenges governments and global leaders to move beyond promises and deliver tangible change. He stressed that children across the region still face significant barriers to education, healthcare, safety, and freedom.

"We must do more to improve their lives and livelihoods. We must act now," Boko said. "We're here to reaffirm that the rights of every child matter, that every child deserves to grow up safe, healthy, loved, and free to dream."

Outlining Botswana's strategy to modernize youth engagement, Boko said the plan includes overhauling the education system, extending high-speed and reliable internet access to every school, implementing targeted cybersecurity measures, prioritizing teacher training with updated skills, and upgrading school facilities. These initiatives form part of the country's broader commitment to improving children's education, digital access, and overall welfare.

World Children's Day, celebrated annually on Nov. 20, promotes the rights and welfare of children globally and commemorates the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. 
TRIPOLI, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- At least four people were killed when two boats carrying 95 migrants capsized off the coast of the western Libyan city of Al Khums, the Libyan Red Crescent said on Saturday.

In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, the Red Crescent said that the two incidents occurred on Thursday night.

It added that the first boat was carrying 26 migrants of Bangladeshi nationality, four of whom died after the vessel sank. The second boat was carrying 69 illegal migrants, including two Egyptians and 67 Sudanese, among them eight children.

The Red Crescent noted that its emergency team, in cooperation with the coast guard and port security authority, carried out rescue operations, recovered the bodies, and handled the cases according to established procedures.

In recent weeks, similar incidents have occurred frequently along the Libyan coast, where coastal cities have seen a rise in efforts to retrieve the bodies of undocumented migrants and rescue many others stranded at sea while trying to cross the Mediterranean toward Europe. 
NEW DELHI, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- A massive explosion took place Friday night inside a police station in Indian-controlled Kashmir, police said.

Following the explosion, a fire engulfed the building and several vehicles parked inside its premises.

The explosion took place at Nowgam police station in Srinagar, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir.

Immediately after the blast, many fire tenders and ambulances were rushed to the police station.

The cause of the explosion was not immediately clear. However, local media reports described it as an accidental blast.

Government forces have closed all the roads leading towards the police station. 
ISLAMABAD, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Five terrorists were killed in an intelligence-based operation in Lakki Marwat district of Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, police said on Saturday.

According to police, the operation was conducted by the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) in Takhti Khel area of the district following credible information about the presence of the terrorists.

Weapons and ammunition were also seized, police said, adding that the action averted a possible attack in the region.

Police said that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to dismantle extremist networks operating in the province. 
ZAGREB, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Croatian President Zoran Milanovic emphasized the energy cooperation between Croatia and Hungary on Saturday, saying that space is open for continued bilateral energy cooperation.

He made the statement after visiting Hungary on Friday, where he held talks with his Hungarian counterpart, Tamas Sulyok, and Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

On Facebook, Milanovic described their talks as "very meaningful and useful," which covered global issues and the problem of the temporarily disrupted energy cooperation between the two sides.

Hungary's state-owned oil and gas company, MOL, has tried to acquire a stake in the Croatian oil pipeline operator Janaf, but the Croatian government rejected the proposal, according to local media reports.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has accused Janaf of exploiting the Ukrainian crisis and imposing a "war surcharge" on crude oil delivered to Hungary. However, the claim has been categorically rejected by Janaf.

Admitting that the two countries have different positions on their energy cooperation, Milanovic said he had explained to Orban the Croatian position on the role of Janaf, which runs part of the Trans Adriatic Pipeline transporting natural gas to Europe from Azerbaijan.

Calling Janaf a "strategically important energy infrastructure" not only for Croatia but also for neighbouring countries, the Croatian President said Janaf can and wants to be a reliable partner, underlining that "after our conversation, additional space has been opened for an agreement on energy cooperation that will benefit both Croatia and Hungary."

Meanwhile, Janaf and MOL have engaged in energy cooperation negotiations, as both countries have emphasized their long-standing partnership and the importance of regional energy security. 
Join Big Y's Sack Hunger Campaign

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  During this season of giving, Big Y's annual Sack Hunger campaign is dedicated to supporting those facing food insecurity.

Through this initiative, funds are raised for the four regional food banks across our two-state marketing area. These food banks, in turn, empower over 1400-member agencies, including local soup kitchens, food pantries, senior nutrition programs and childcare centers, to provide essential nourishment and resources every day. Their mission is to expand access to nutritious food and strengthen community support systems for individuals and families at risk of hunger. These four food banks are Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, Worcester County Food Bank, The Greater Boston Food Bank and Connecticut Foodshare.

For a $5 donation, customers can support Sack Hunger from any register at Big Y's supermarkets, Table & Vine Fine Wines and Liquors or online at Sack Hunger: Big Y Raising Money for Food Banks in CT & MA | Big Y from now through Dec. 10.

Every $5 donation brings 10 meals to those in need.

Additionally, Big Y has added even more ways to boost this year's efforts. They will donate a portion of the proceeds from Produce and Floral department purchases from Nov. 13 through Nov. 19. Big Y has pledged a portion of every private label brand that they sell throughout the store from Nov. 28 through Dec. 3.

These private label brands include Food Club, Crav'n Flavor, Culinary Tours, Full Circle Market, Basket & Bushel, Cornershop Cuts, CharKing, Wide Awake Coffee, Sweet P's Bake Shop, Cape Covelle Seafood Market, Simply Done, Paws Happy Life, Flock's Finest, Pure Harmony, Tippy Toes and TopCare.

From Dec. 4 through Dec. 10 the Big Y will also donate a portion of the proceeds from the Meat Department.
MassDOT Announces Name A Snowplow Contest for Elementary, Middle Schools

BOSTON- The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing the fourth annual "Name A Snowplow" contest for statewide elementary school and middle school students in Massachusetts.

The contest seeks to solicit names for 12 MassDOT snowplows that will be in service for the upcoming 2025/2026 winter season. The purpose of the contest is to celebrate the snow and ice season, recognize the hard work and dedication shown by public works employees and contractors, and raise awareness about the vital role they play in keeping our roads safe during winter weather events. Winning selections will be announced by Friday, Dec.19.

"Winter is coming and the Name A Snowplow contest is a fun way to engage with students and the communities we serve. It gives our future leaders a chance to show their appreciation for the vital role our workforce plays as we plan and prepare for potential snow and ice events," said Interim Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng." Under the leadership of Healey-Driscoll administration, safety of our transportation system will always be a priority. ?Im proud of the dedication our crews show year-round and especially during the winter months. Operating a snowplow during winter storms is no easy task, so join us in celebrating their hard work by helping name the snowplows that keep the roads safe for everyone."

Applications for the Snowplow Naming Contest are due by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, Dec.5, and can be submitted by using an online portal: https://www.mass.gov/forms/ name-a-snowplow-contest- submission. There is no limit to the number of applications that can be submitted per school. The contest winners will be invited to participate in a scheduled snowplow unveiling event.

A selection panel composed of MassDOT employees will choose two elementary school classroom winners that are located within each of the six Highway Division districts. The winning submissions will be evaluated based on two grade-level categories: 1) kindergarten through fourth grade; and 2) fifth grade through eighth grade.

During the third annual snowplow naming contest last winter, the winning names were: Snowana, Control-Salt-Delete, Taylor Drift, Ice Snow More, Ice Ice Baby, Its Snow Problem, Mac NFreeze, Blizzard Buster, C 3 P Snow, Snow Force One, Abominable Plowman, and Meltin John. These names, which were placed on the sides of plow trucks a year ago, remain on those vehicles.

For more information on the contest, please visit https://www.mass.gov/name-a- snowplow-contest-2025-26
Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll checks out the painted lockers, leftover from when Mark Hopkins was an elementary school, on Friday. Professor Maggie Clark, left, President James Birge, Driscoll, Trustees Chair Buffy Lord and Richard Glejzer, vice president of academic affairs. A look at a third-floor classroom that hasn't changed much it past three decades. Officials pose with student trustee and senior Allie Bayer at the new college sign on Church Street. PreviousNext

MCLA Shows Off Mark Hopkins' Needs to Lieutenant Governor



MCLA professor Maggie Clark says the outdated classrooms with their chalkboards aren't providing the technical support aspiring teachers need. NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  The outdated lockers are painted over, large air conditioners are in the windows, and professors are still using chalkboards and projectors in the classrooms.

The last significant work on Mark Hopkins was done in the 1980s, and its last "sprucing up" was years ago.

"The building has great bones," President Jamie Birge told Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, as they stood in a third-floor classroom on Friday afternoon. "The envelope needs to be worked on, sure, but it's stable, so it's usable  but it just isn't usable in this form."

The "new" Mark Hopkins School opened in 1940 on Church Street and later became a campus school for what was then North Adams State Teachers College. There haven't been children in the building in years: it's been used for office space and for classrooms since about 1990.

"I live in this building. Yeah, I teach the history of American education," said education professor Maggie Clark, joining officials as they laughed that the classroom was historical.

"Projecting forward, we're talking about assistive technology, working with students with disabilities to have this facility as our emblem for what our foundation is, is a challenge."

Board of Trustees Chair Buffy Lord said the classroom hadn't changed since she attended classes there in the 1990s.

Driscoll was in the city to address the Western Mass Arts Economic Impact Summit in the morning and then had lunch with Birge and a visit to Mark Hopkins to see what the college's needs are.

She and Gov. Maura Healey are advocating for the BRIGHT Act (An Act to Build Resilient Infrastructure to Generate Higher Education Transformation), filed by the governor in January to use Fair Share amendment funds to pump up to $3 billion into the infrastructure of the state's higher-education system.

"It's also just a tremendous jobs bill, because we know when we're building buildings, it's contributing mightily to the local economy," Driscoll said. "So we're excited to partner with the Legislature and move that bill forward and hopefully get some projects in the ground for the start of '26."

The lieutenant governor said she really didn't need to see the building to understand that it was out of date. Students teachers graduating from the college won't be teaching in classrooms that look anything like this, she said.

"We're educating teachers to teach young people critical thinking skills in the building that's still using a chalkboard, like that's our goal," she said. "Thank you for letting me see it firsthand. I don't think we needed to be convinced, but it's great."

Birge said there was a proposal to the Division of Capital Management to renovate Mark Hopkins several years ago. That can be dusted off and updated, he said.

"We'll be ready when the state's ready to roll out the funding," said Birge, adding, "this is really an economic development and it means that if we have a better facility, we can bring in more students for education. It means we keep people here in Berkshire County. So it creates jobs. It sustains jobs. It replaces people who are retiring after a career that's very long with students who have the leading-edge information about education.

"So it creates so many dynamics, more than just, you know, we've got a construction."

Driscoll said renovations won't be any cheaper five or 10 years down the road. The BRIGHT Act will be a "tremendous jobs bill" and also tells students that "we value you," she said.

State Sen. Paul Mark said on Friday that the bill had been reported out of the Joint Committee on Bonding, Capital Expenditures and State Assets, of which he is vice chair, on Thursday. It is now on its way to Ways & Means.

One of promises by the administration was to lower costs for higher education, including free community college for eligible students.

"And that was important to us, that if you have the fire in the belly and the opportunity, that dollars aren't the reason why you don't go to school. But now let's make sure the setting works, so that you can do your best, and we can support all learners not having accessibility," said Driscoll, adding that includes creature comforts like proper heating and cooling.

"A result of the work that you and the government have done, MCLA has the lowest debt load of any public four-year institution," Birge told her. "So our students graduate, on average, with $13,000 in debt."
ATHENS, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- A tourist bus carrying about 40 passengers overturned on an old section of the national road network in Magnesia, central Greece, on Saturday, leaving 13 women with minor injuries, local authorities said.

Local media reported that the accident occurred when the driver braked abruptly while navigating a curve to avoid several stray dogs that suddenly entered the road, causing the bus to lose control and overturn.

According to preliminary information, all the injured passengers were transported to a hospital in the nearby city of Volos with minor injuries.

The group was traveling on a pilgrimage excursion.

Authorities temporarily cordoned off the area and launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. 
China, partners highlight green innovation cooperation during COP30

Xinhua) 11:09, November 15, 2025

Zhao Yingmin, president of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) International Green Development Coalition, speaks at a high-level side event during the COP30 in Belem, Brazil, Nov. 12, 2025. A high-level side event on innovation and green development was held here on Wednesday during the COP30 to share expertise and experience in green transition. Representatives from UN agencies, international organizations, governments, and financial and research institutions attended the event. (Xinhua/Wang Tiancong)

BELEM, Brazil, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- A high-level side event on innovation and green development was held here on Wednesday during the COP30 to share expertise and experience in green transition.

Zhao Yingmin, president of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) International Green Development Coalition, said China has promoted a comprehensive green transition with systematic measures, achieved notable results in ecological civilization and renewable energy development, and set a national target for 2035 that demonstrates its determination to address climate change.

He said China is willing to help other countries share opportunities and pursue common development through green cooperation.

Simon Stiell, executive secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, said green growth is a new driving force for development and investment cooperation under the green Silk Road framework, and will provide important opportunities for job creation, capacity building and sustainable growth.

He said practical cooperation between the coalition and partners has already produced fruitful results, expressing hope for more project outcomes.

Li Gao, head of the Chinese delegation and vice minister of ecology and environment, said the Chinese government attaches great importance to ecological civilization, has promoted the conclusion, signing, entry into force and implementation of the Paris Agreement, and is coordinating efforts to reduce carbon emissions and pollution, expand green space and support growth.

Li said China has integrated the green concept into the Belt and Road practice, built the world's largest clean power system and a carbon trading market, while its green industries continue to grow.

Looking ahead, he said, China is ready to strengthen green innovation cooperation, promote the utilization of scientific and technological achievements, and build shared, mutually beneficial green development demonstration projects.

Jorge Moreira da Silva, executive director of the United Nations Office for Project Services, said green transition depends not only on policy and finance but also on the ability to deliver projects, and the BRI International Green Development Coalition plays an active role in green transformation.

Representatives from UN agencies, international organizations, governments, and financial and research institutions attended the event.

Li Gao, head of the Chinese delegation and vice minister of ecology and environment, speaks at a high-level side event during the COP30 in Belem, Brazil, Nov. 12, 2025. A high-level side event on innovation and green development was held here on Wednesday during the COP30 to share expertise and experience in green transition. Representatives from UN agencies, international organizations, governments, and financial and research institutions attended the event. (Xinhua/Wang Tiancong)

Mark Watts, Executive director of C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, speaks at a high-level side event during the COP30 in Belem, Brazil, Nov. 12, 2025. A high-level side event on innovation and green development was held here on Wednesday during the COP30 to share expertise and experience in green transition. Representatives from UN agencies, international organizations, governments, and financial and research institutions attended the event. (Xinhua/Wang Tiancong)

A high-level side event on innovation and green development is held during the COP30 to share expertise and experience in green transition in Belem, Brazil, Nov. 12, 2025. Representatives from UN agencies, international organizations, governments, and financial and research institutions attended the event. (Xinhua/Wang Tiancong)

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Liang Jun)
LONDON, NOV. 15 (Xinhua) -- The dramatic retreat of Arctic ice is opening new shipping routes, offering opportunities for global commerce, but meanwhile triggering critical safety warnings from scientists.

Scientists across several countries are accelerating research and technology to help protect vessels, crews, and communities from hazardous ice, icebergs, and shifting Arctic conditions.

NEW GLACIAL REALITIES RESHAPE ARCTIC

As the United Nations observes the 2025 International Year of Glaciers' Preservation, the UK National Commission for UNESCO recently unveiled a major report, "Glaciers and Ice Sheets in a Warming World: Impacts and Outcomes."

Decades of satellite observation, field surveys, and climate modeling reveal a crisis in motion: since 2000, glaciers have shed approximately 6,542 billion tonnes of ice - over 5 percent of their total mass - driving around one-third of the ongoing global sea-level rise.

Scientific findings highlight that these transformations pose acute threats to vulnerable populations worldwide. Research published in Nature Communications finds that 15 million people globally are exposed to the risks of potential glacial lake outburst floods. The 2025 United Nations World Water Development Report warns that climate change and "unsustainable human activities" are driving "unprecedented changes" in mountain regions and glaciers, threatening reliable freshwater access for over two billion people.

"The impacts of these imposing leftovers of glacier retreat are simultaneously both local and global," said James Lea, a professor and co-author of the report, in a recent interview with Xinhua.

SURGING TRAFFIC AND UNPRECEDENTED DANGERS

Accelerating sea-ice loss, which has occurred at a 36 percent faster rate since 2012, has led to a surge in Arctic shipping. However, previously navigable passages may quickly become dangerous due to rapid glacial shifts.

According to the Arctic Council, the number of ships entering the Arctic region increased by 37 percent from 2013 to 2023.

"As the Arctic becomes an increasingly busy and globally connected place, rapidly changing iceberg risk in these waters cannot be ignored. In some areas where you might have safely sailed a cruise liner in one month might be impassable the next," said Lea.

He emphasized the need for all vessels to "understand and mitigate the risks posed by iceberg strikes."

Glaciers that once remained stable for centuries now produce unpredictable hazards, potentially turning safe routes into perilous ones within a season. Search-and-rescue incidents have more than doubled over the past decade in Arctic regions, where response times are critical for victims' survival, but vast distances make it hard for rescue teams to arrive at the site immediately.

Arctic search and rescue coordination through the U.S. Coast Guard, Canadian Forces, and Nordic nations emphasizes that "in the Arctic, time and distance are the greatest enemies."

"Wherever you are in the Arctic, sailing there demands respect for the environment," added Lea, noting that search and rescue capabilities often remain hundreds of kilometers away. If something goes wrong, help is unlikely to be just around the corner.

Beyond immediate collision risks, scientists warn of additional hazards, including localized tsunamis and coastal erosion caused by iceberg capsize, which would impact Arctic settlements in Greenland, Alaska, and Canada. The influx of meltwater entering the open ocean may also alter North Atlantic weather and climate patterns, disrupting the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation that regulates global climate.

TECHNOLOGICAL FRONTIERS FOR SAFER ARCTIC VOYAGES

Modern ships now rely on increasingly advanced tools, such as real-time ice charts and satellite data, but the surge in Arctic shipping has pressed the research teams to accelerate the research-to-application process by pioneering new methods for monitoring icebergs and modelling the changing Arctic conditions.

At the University of Liverpool, scientists are building detailed iceberg maps through a combination of satellite imaging, ground cameras, and on-ice sensors.

Liverpool, known as the registration port of the Titanic lost to an iceberg in 1912, is now a center for cutting-edge polar research.

The legacy of the Titanic drives contemporary innovation. Today's technologies for tracking icebergs are becoming increasingly sophisticated.

Additionally, solar-powered GPS beacons have revolutionized iceberg tracking capabilities in the Arctic. Deployed via helicopter onto icebergs along the coasts of Greenland and Ellesmere and Baffin Islands, these beacons have enabled tracking of individual icebergs for up to a decade.

Meanwhile, advances in artificial intelligence are substantially improving iceberg detection and automated tracking.

"While you can't control what an individual glacier will do, we're hoping to contribute to the long-term safety of communities, infrastructure, tourists, and sailors, so that anyone living in, working in, or visiting these areas won't get any nasty surprises," said Lea. Enditem.
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China urged its people to stay away from Japan and issued a series of stern warnings as the diplomatic spat sparked by Sanae Takaichis comments about Taiwan threatened to derail bilateral ties.

The Chinese foreign ministry said on Friday that the new Japanese prime ministers blatantly provocative remarks on Taiwan had further damaged the atmosphere for people-to-people exchanges, creating additional risks to the safety and security of Chinese citizens in the East Asian country, CNN reported. It reminded citizens to refrain from visiting Japan for the time being.

Beijing and Tokyo have traded protests throughout the week in a dispute that has revived longstanding tensions and underscored Chinas sensitivity around Taiwan.

China regards Taiwan as a breakaway province that must eventually be reunited with the mainland  by force if needed  and is lately stepping up military pressure around the island.

The diplomatic row erupted last week when an opposition MP pressed Ms Takaichi on what kind of situation around Taiwan might constitute a threat to Japans survival.

If there are battleships and the use of force, no matter how you think about it, it could constitute a survival-threatening situation, she replied.

A survival-threatening situation is a legal category under a 2015 security law that allows the Japanese military to operate as if an attack on a close partner  typically understood to mean the US  poses an existential danger to Japan.

Tokyo historically avoided saying how it might respond if China were to deploy force against Taiwan, maintaining a form of strategic ambiguity similar to that practised by Washington.

Beijing promptly condemned Ms Takaichis remarks as egregious, and Chinas consul general in Osaka, Xue Jian, amplified tensions by writing on X that the dirty head that sticks itself in must be cut off.

The post, interpreted as a threat, was deleted soon after Tokyo lodged a formal protest, with chief cabinet secretary Minoru Kihara calling the message highly inappropriate.

Japans prime minister Sanae Takaichi chats with chief cabinet secretary Minoru Kihara after delivering her policy speech ( AFP via Getty )

In spite of the uproar, Ms Takaichi refused to retract her statement, insisting it aligned with Japans official position. Ms Takaichi, a protege of late prime minister Shinzo Abe, is known for her hawkish views on China and longstanding support for Taiwan.

China escalated its response on Thursday. The foreign ministry warned in Japanese and English that Tokyo should stop playing with fire, calling any intervention in the Taiwan Strait an act of aggression. If Japan dares to attempt an armed intervention in the Taiwan Strait situation, it would be an act of aggression and definitely meet a firm response from China, ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said, according to The Japan Times. We will firmly exercise our right to self-defence under the UN Charter and international law and defend Chinas sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Vice foreign minister Sun Weidong summoned ambassador Kenji Kanasugi, saying Ms Takaichis remarks were extremely wrong and dangerous and demanding they be withdrawn. State media quoted Mr Sun as saying that otherwise all consequences must be borne by Japan.

Anyone who dares to interfere in Chinas reunification cause in any form will surely be dealt a heavy blow, Mr Sun was quoted as telling the envoy by The Japan Times.

He also said Ms Takaichis comments violated international norms and seriously hurt the feelings of the Chinese people, Xinhua News reported.

He warned that Taiwan was the core of Chinas core interests and an untouchable red line, asserting that the 1.4 billion Chinese people would never tolerate any interference in the matter. The nationalist tone was echoed by state media.

Peoples Daily said Ms Takaichi was the first Japanese leader in 80 years to threaten the use of force against China, describing her stance as extremely sinister.

In the first eight months of 2025, Japan received almost 7.5 million Chinese visitors, according to government data, so a prolonged travel warning could carry significant economic consequences for the country.

The latest flare-up also followed Beijings outrage over Ms Takaichis meeting with a senior Taiwanese adviser during the Apec summit in South Korea, an encounter that China branded a violation of its one China principle.

Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump claimed that Chinese leader Xi Jinping had assured him that Beijing would not take any action towards Taiwan while the Republican remained in office. But Mr Trump refused to directly answer whether the US would defend Taiwan if it were attacked by China.
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At least nine people were killed and 32 injured after confiscated explosives stored at a police station in the restive Himalayan region of Kashmir detonated late on Friday.

Most of those killed were policemen and forensic officials who were examining the explosives, NDTV reported.

Two members of the local administration were killed as well.

The explosion occurred at around 11.20pm as officials were examining the material in the compound of the Nowgam police station in the regional capital Srinagar.

The identification of the bodies is underway as some have been completely burnt, Reuters reported, quoting an unnamed source. The intensity of the blast was such that some body parts were recovered from nearby houses around 100-200 metres away from the police station.

The blast reportedly ignited vehicles parked nearby and sent flames high above the building.

According to the news agency PTI, there were small successive explosions after the main blast, which prevented immediate rescue operations.

Five of the injured were reported to be in critical condition.

Due to the unstable and sensitive nature of the recovery, the sampling process, the handling was being done with utmost caution by the FSL team, Kashmir police chief Nalin Prabhat said at a press conference, referring to forensic officials. Unfortunately, during this course, last night around 11.20 pm, an accidental explosion has taken place. Any other speculation into the cause of this incident is unnecessary.

He confirmed that nine people were killed while 27 police personnel, two revenue officials and three civilians from the adjacent areas received injuries. The extent of this damage is being ascertained, Mr Prabhat added. The cause for this unfortunate incident is being enquired into. Jammu & Kashmir police stands in solidarity with the families of the deceased in this hour of grief.

open image in gallery Aftermath of the explosion at the Nowgam police station in Srinagar, Kashmir ( AP )

The Nowgam explosion came barely days after a deadly car blast in the Indian capital Delhi killed 13 people. In the aftermath of the blast near the iconic monument of Red Fort on Monday  since classified as a terror attack  Indian authorities detained five individuals in Kashmir and blew up the family home of the main suspect in the restive valley.

In the days before the Red Fort blast, the security apparatus in Kashmir had conducted a sweeping crackdown during which some 1,500 people were questioned across the federal territory in a supposed attempt to thwart a reorganisation of militants, the Indian Express reported.

The explosives that went off at the police station had reportedly been found during the crackdown, which started in Kashmir after posters supporting the proscribed militant group Jaish-e-Mohammad appeared in Srinagar, and quickly extended to Faridabad in the northern Indian state of Haryana.

Indian authorities claimed the crackdown unearthed a terrorist network operating across Kashmir, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.

The Kashmir police said they analysed CCTV footage of men putting up the posters which led them to Adeel Ahmad Rather, a Kashmir doctor working in Uttar Pradesh, who was arrested on 27 October.

They found an assault rifle in his locker, the police claimed, and his interrogation revealed a terror ecosystem, involving radicalised professionals and students in contact with foreign handlers, operating from Pakistan and other countries.

The police subsequently arrested Dr Muzammil Shakeel Ganai of Al-Falah Medical College and University in Faridabad and allegedly found a large haul of ammonium nitrate and other chemicals used for making improvised explosive devices when they raided two homes rented in his name in the city.

It was apparently this haul of explosive material  at least some of it  that blew up at the police station on Friday.

A fellow Kashmiri colleague of Dr Shakeel at Al-Falah is the main suspect in the Red Delhi blast. Investigators claim Dr Umar Nabi was in the Hyundai car that exploded near the iconic monument but it is not yet clear if he was the driver. His identity was reportedly confirmed after DNA taken from the blast site was matched with that of his mother.

open image in gallery Indian paramilitary troopers frisk a pedestrian during a random search in Srinagar ( AFP via Getty )

The Nowgam explosion took place the same day Indian authorities destroyed Nabis family home in Kashmirs Pulwama. Theres no provision in Indian law that allows the demolition of a suspects property as a form of punishment but it is an increasingly common practice, especially in states governed by prime minister Narendra Modis Bharatiya Janata Party.

Authorities ordered out Nabis parents, brother and sister-in-law, who lived together in the two-storey house, and blew it up.

Nabis sister-in-law, Shagufta Jan, said the family had not heard from him since last Friday when she told him police had come looking for him.

He called us on Friday, and I told him to come home, she said. He said he would come after three days.

The Indian government on Friday declared the Red Fort attack a terror incident, a classification that could again raise tensions with Pakistan.

India routinely accuses Pakistan of supporting Islamist militants in Kashmir, where a bloody insurgency against Delhis rule is midway through its third decade. Islamabad denies the allegation.

The nuclear-armed neighbours fought a four-day military conflict earlier this year after India carried out airstrikes across the border in what it said was retaliation for a terror attack in Kashmir that had killed nearly two dozen people, mostly Hindu tourists from the mainland.

The fighting, marked by drone and missile attacks and heavy artillery shelling, left over a hundred people dead on both sides and pushed South Asia to the brink of all-out war before the US brokered a ceasefire.
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An invasive fish species is threatening the livelihoods of a northwestern Sri Lankan village, aggressively consuming traditional fish and shellfish in the Deduru Oya reservoir.

However, local fishers are determined to transform this adversity into an advantage.

Over the past two years, fishermen have observed a sharp decline in their usual catches, while snakehead fish, previously unknown in Sri Lanka, have appeared in vast numbers.

Officials suggest these fish, common in countries like Thailand and Indonesia, likely arrived as imported ornamental species. It is believed their owners released them into the reservoir once they outgrew their tanks.

Dr Kelum Wijenayake, an academic researching the species, notes that the snakehead has no natural predators within Sri Lankas ecosystem.

The Deduru Oya reservoir has provided an ideal breeding ground, offering ample food and an absence of threats, allowing their population to flourish unchecked.t

open image in gallery Ranjith Kumara, right, and Saman Kariyawasam eat giant snakehead fish in Walpaluwa, Sri Lanka ( AP )

They also often come to the surface to inhale outside oxygen and are able to survive with just enough water to keep them hydrated, he said.

They have sharp teeth, strong jaws and are aggressive eaters, which means their increased presence can damage the local ecosystem that evolved over millennia, he said.

They also grow bigger compared to traditional freshwater fish species. Fisherman Nishantha Sujeewa Kumara said he once caught a fish weighing 7 kilograms (15 pounds), while the native species he usually catches weigh mostly less than a kilogram.

Although we had heard of the snakehead fish before, none of us had ever seen one until a hobbyist angler came and caught it. That was the first time we saw it, because this fish cannot be caught using nets  it has to be caught by angling, said Ranjith Kumara, the secretary of the areas fishers association.

We started fishing in this reservoir in 2016. Back then, we used to catch small prawns and other high-value varieties, but now theyve become very rare.

open image in gallery A fisherman brings his catch ashore from the Deduru Oya Reservoir, where giant snakehead fish have become an invasive species ( AP )

Authorities organised an angler competition to try to control the snakehead population, but it was unsuccessful.

Fishers, however, hope to turn the invasive species threat into an opportunity.

Ranjith Kumara proposed that authorities promote angler tourism as a consistent control method, which could also provide alternative economic avenues to the villagers who are mostly engaged in fishing and farming.

Fisherman Sujeewa Kariyawasam, who produces salted dried fish using the invasive species, said although fresh snakehead fish has relatively low market demand, the dried fish made from it is tasty and a popular delicacy.

I am working to further develop this business. As demand continues to grow, more snakeheads will be caught for production, which in turn will help control the spread of the snakehead population.
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Whooping cough, a bacterial infection that can be especially dangerous for babies and young children, is on the rise.

As of November 2025, the U.S. has already recorded 20,939 cases for the year. Thats slightly lower than the 21,391 cases during the same period in 2024, but these numbers are significantly higher than in 2023, when there were 2,993 cases by this time. Texas has issued a health alert on a surge in cases, and rates are rising in other states, too.

Like measles, which is also spreading at unprecedented levels, whooping cough, more formally known as pertussis, can be prevented by a safe and effective vaccine. But with anti-vaccine sentiment increasing and cuts to immunization services, vaccination rates for whooping cough over the past two years have declined in children.

The Conversation asked epidemiologist Annette Regan to explain why pertussis has become so prevalent and how families can protect themselves from the disease.

What is pertussis and why is it dangerous?

Pertussis is a vaccine-preventable disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. Researchers in France first identified the B. pertussis bacterium in 1906. The first recorded epidemic of pertussis is thought to have occurred in Paris in 1578.

open image in gallery A colony of the Bordetella pertussis bacterium that causes pertussis ( Getty/iStock )

Infection can cause an acute respiratory illness characterized by severe and spasmodic coughing spells. The classic symptom of pertussis is a whoop sound caused by someone trying to breath during a bad cough. Severe complications of pertussis include slowed or stopped breathing, pneumonia and seizures. The disease is most severe in young babies, although severe cases and deaths can also occur in older children and adults.

Some doctors call pertussis the 100-day cough because symptoms can linger for weeks or even months.

The World Health Organization estimates that 24.1 million pertussis cases and 160,700 deaths occur worldwide in children under 5 each year. Pertussis is highly contagious. Upon exposure, 80% of people who have not been previously exposed to the bacterium or vaccinated against the disease will develop an infection.

Fortunately, the disease is largely preventable with a safe and effective vaccine, which was first licensed in the U.S. in 1914.

How do cases last year and this year compare with past years?

During the COVID-19 pandemic between 2020 and 2022, pertussis cases were lower than usual. This may have been a result of limited social contact due to social distancing, masking, school closures and lockdown measures, which reduced the spread of disease overall.

In the past two years, however, pertussis cases have surpassed figures from before the pandemic. In 2024, local and state public health agencies reported 35,435 pertussis cases to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  a rate five times higher than the 7,063 cases reported in 2023 and nearly double the 18,617 cases reported in 2019 prior to the pandemic.

Between October 2024 and April 2025, at least four people in the U.S. have died of pertussis: two infants, one school-age child and one adult.

Why are pertussis cases rising?

Although vaccines have resulted in a dramatic decline in pertussis infections in the U.S., incidence of the disease has been rising since the 1990s, except for a brief dip during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Before the start of routine childhood vaccination for pertussis in 1947, its rates hovered between 100,000 and 200,000 cases per year. With vaccines, rates plunged under 50,000 annually by the late 1950s and under 10,000 per year in the late 1960s. They reached a low of 1,010 cases in 1976.

Starting in the 1980s and 1990s, however, the U.S. and several other countries have been seeing a steady resurgence of pertussis cases, which have exceeded 10,000 cases in the U.S. every year from 2003 to 2019. They dropped again during the pandemic until last years resurgence.

About the author Annette Regan is an Adjunct Associate Professor of Epidemiology at University of California, Los Angeles. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

There is no single explanation for why cases have been rising recently, but several factors probably contribute. First, pertussis naturally occurs in cyclic epidemics, peaking every two to five years. It is possible that the U.S. is headed into one of these peaks after a period of low activity between 2020 and 2022. However, some scientists have noted that the increase in cases is larger than what would be expected during a usual peak.

Some scientists have noted that this apparent resurgence correlates with a change in the type of vaccine used in children. Until the 1990s, the pertussis vaccine contained whole, killed B. pertussis bacteria cells. Whole-cell vaccine can stimulate a long-lasting immune response, but it is also more likely to cause fever and other vaccine reactions in children.

In the 1990s, national vaccine programs began to transition to a vaccine that contains purified components of the bacterial cell but not the whole cell. Some scientists now believe that although this partial-cell vaccine is less likely to cause high fevers in children, it provides protection for a shorter time. Immunity after whole-cell vaccination is thought to last 10-12 years compared with three to five years after the partial-cell vaccine. This means people may become susceptible to infection more quickly after vaccination.

Vaccination rates are also not as high as they should be and have started falling in children since 2020. In the U.S., the percent of kindergartners who are up to date with recommended pertussis vaccines has declined from 95% during the 2019-20 school year to 92% in the 2023-24 school year. Even fewer adolescents receive a booster dose.

How can people protect themselves and their families?

Routine vaccination for children starting in infancy followed by booster doses in adolescents and adults can help keep immunity high.

Public health experts recommend that children receive five doses of the pertussis vaccine. According to the recommendations, they should receive the first three doses at 2, 4 and 6 months of age, then two additional doses at 15 months and 4 years of age, with the aim of providing protection through early adolescence.

open image in gallery Routine vaccination can help keep immunity high ( Getty/iStock )

Infants younger than 6 weeks are not old enough to get a pertussis vaccine but are at the greatest risk of severe illness from pertussis. Vaccination during pregnancy can offer protection from birth due to antibodies that pass from the mother to the developing fetus. Many countries, including the U.S., now recommend that women receive one dose of pertussis vaccine between the 27th and 36th week of every pregnancy to protect their babies.

To maintain protection against pertussis after childhood, a booster dose of pertussis vaccine is recommended for adolescents at 11 to 12 years of age. The CDC recommends that all adults receive at least one booster dose.

Because immunity declines over time, people who are in contact with infants and other high-risk groups, such as caregivers, parents and grandparents, may benefit from additional booster doses. When feasible, the CDC also recommends a booster dose for adults 65 years and older.

Vaccine safety studies over the past 80 years have proven the pertussis vaccine to be safe. Around 20% to 40% of vaccinated infants experience local reactions, such as pain, redness and swelling at the vaccination site, and 3% to 5% of vaccinated infants experience a low-grade fever. More severe reactions are much less common and occur in fewer than 1% of vaccinated infants.

The vaccine is also highly effective: For the first year after receiving all five doses of the pertussis vaccine, 98% of children are protected from pertussis. Five years after the fifth dose, 65% of vaccinated children remain protected.

Booster vaccination during adolescence protects 74% of teens against pertussis, and booster vaccination during pregnancy protects 91% to 94% of immunized babies against hospitalization due to pertussis.

Families can talk to their regular health care providers about whether a pertussis vaccine is needed for their child, themselves or other family members.
I remember singing it in the playground in the late 1970s: Hitler has only got one ball/ The other is in the Albert Hall/ Himmler is very similar/ But poor old Goebbels has no balls at all. Of course, even at the age of eight, we all suspected that the idea that Hitler was one nut short of a lunchbox was probably not true. How on earth could anybody possibly know?

However, it now appears that not only might the ditty have been true, but Hitler had a hidden genetic disorder that would likely have hindered the development of his sexual organs. A gift for any wartime writer of bawdy ballads  he had a one in 10 chance of having a micropenis.

The answer to how we may know such intimate knowledge of the biological design of the Fuhrer lies in a patch of dried blood on the sofa on which Hitler blew his brains out in April 1945. The stain was found by Colonel Roswell P Rosengren of the US Army, one of General Eisenhowers press officers, who cut some fabric off the couch and took it home. Eight decades later, that blood has been analysed by scientists, who have managed to sequence Hitlers DNA, and the picture his genome reveals is extraordinary.

The results are being shown tonight in a Channel 4 documentary called Hitlers DNA: Blueprint of a Dictator. The big revelation is that Hitlers genetic markers show he had Kallmann syndrome, a genetic disorder that delays and hinders puberty, often resulting in a very small penis as well as undescended testicles.

This startling find partially correlates with the notebooks of Josef Brinsteiner, the doctor at Landsberg prison in 1923, who had examined Hitler after he had been incarcerated that year. His records clearly show that he had right-sided cryptorchidism  an undescended testicle. Incidentally, Brinsteiner was sympathetic to Hitlers political goals, so we cannot put this potential slur down to a left-wing doctor seeking to defame a political opponent. However, it is notable that despite tales of Hitlers fellow soldiers in the trenches of the First World War laughing at their comrades inadequacy, Brinsteiner did not remark on the small size of the tyrants member himself.

If Hitlers genitals were indeed severely underdeveloped, it goes some way to explaining why his romantic relationships never appeared to be a priority for him. Alex J Kay, a senior historian at the University of Potsdam who specialises in Nazi Germany and was the co-lead investigator, says it brings new understanding to his highly unusual and almost complete devotion to politics in his life.

He said: Other senior Nazis had wives, children, even extramarital affairs. Hitler is the one person among the whole Nazi leadership who doesnt. Therefore, I think that only under Hitler could the Nazi movement have come to power.

While Hitler cultivated an image as the celibate father of the German nation, the relationships he did have were kept hidden from the public. Several women close to him died by suicide or attempted suicide, suggesting deeply troubled dynamics. His most famous relationship was with Eva Braun, whom he kept completely hidden from the public and from political affairs.

She attempted suicide twice before marrying Hitler on 29 April 1945, in a civil ceremony. The next day, both died by suicide  she by consuming cyanide, and he by shooting himself.

open image in gallery Hitler cultivated an image as the celibate father of the German nation ( Ullstein Bild/Getty )

How different might Hitlers character have been had he not suffered from the condition? Would a sexually confident Hitler have been less drawn to extremism and violence? Might he even have eschewed politics altogether? Of course, we can never know, but it is tempting to wonder whether the Second World War might never have happened had Hitler been able to enjoy a functional and fulfilling romantic relationship.

More worryingly still, the DNA paints an even more parlous picture of Hitlers health. Not only did he have the markers for Kallmann syndrome, but his genes also show he was extremely likely to have had autism, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. While the documentary researchers speculate on how some symptoms might have affected Hitlers life, such as paranoia, poor social skills, and mood swings, they are keen to ensure that their findings are not used to stigmatise people with any of the conditions indicated in Hitlers DNA.

Plenty of people get by with all sorts of congenital complaints without having to slaughter six million Jews. Saying its in your genes is surely an even worse excuse than the old Nuremberg defence of following orders.

Behaviour is never 100 per cent genetic, said psychologist Professor Sir Simon Baron-Cohen. Associating Hitlers extreme cruelty with people with these diagnoses risks stigmatising them, especially when the vast majority of people with these diagnoses are neither violent nor cruel, and many are the opposite.

open image in gallery Dictators such as Mao Zedong (left) and Joseph Stalin (right) suffered illnesses that may have profoundly affected their behaviour ( AFP/Getty )

While the study of history often examines the mighty crashing forces of politics and circumstance, it cannot be denied that the medical conditions of dictators are endlessly fascinating.

Take Joseph Stalin. Smallpox left his face pitted. A carriage accident in childhood permanently shrivelled his left arm. Then add chronic pain, hypertension, insomnia, and the psychological sludge created by a childhood so bleak it could make Dostoevsky weep  you dont need a PhD in trauma studies to see how the self-loathing of a pockmarked Georgian boy mutated into the paranoia of the Soviet autocrat.

And what of Mao Zedong? The chairman suffered from sleep disorders, heart trouble, and an intestinal constitution best described as apocalyptic. Yet he refused medical treatment with the sort of obstinacy that would have impressed even his own pig-headed Red Guards. Mao believed acknowledging illness was ideologically unsound  a bourgeois weakness that could not be associated with the Great Helmsman.

The result? A leader drifting in and out of lucidity while millions rampaged across China on the fumes of his increasingly erratic wishes. When your leader believes laxatives are a counter-revolutionary plot, the phrase national delirium stops being metaphorical.

Then theres Kim Jong Il, who provides perhaps the purest example of how a dictators physiology can shape an entire nations political weather.

open image in gallery North Korea was said to be at the mercy of Kim Jong Ils health-related mood swings ( AFP/Getty )

Alcoholism, severe anxiety, and a stroke in 2008 that left him temporarily incapacitated were not mere footnotes. Defectors have described how the rhythm of North Korea pulsed to the capricious beat of Kims mood swings. Nuclear threats one week, eerie silence the next. Foreign policy was drafted by neurotransmitters. In the West, we think of geopolitics as strategy. In Pyongyang, it was more like endocrinology.

Saddam Hussein, meanwhile, had a medical issue less about malfunction and more about presentation. The Iraqi dictator is widely believed to have undergone cosmetic procedures  including possible fillers  in the service of the virile, hypermasculine persona he plastered across Baghdad in mural form. Saddams greatest fear was not invasion, but humiliation. The slightest dent to his preening image provoked volcanic overreaction. A man who cannot bear a wrinkle is hardly going to tolerate dissenting MPs.

And then we arrive at Nicolae Ceausescu, the Romanian tyrant whose later years were overshadowed by serious heart disease and a decline in cognitive clarity that would have sent any sane person to a GP  or, at the very least, a quiet retirement in a bungalow.

But Ceausescu, like his peers, believed himself biologically exempt from mortality. His failing health coincided with increasingly bizarre policies  rationing schemes constructed around fantasy, industrial goals that appeared to have been scribbled in crayon, and a level of delusion that made even his own security services nervous.

open image in gallery Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceausescus health problems coincided with increasingly bizarre policies ( AP )

By the time he stood on the balcony in 1989, shaking with anger as the crowd turned against him, we were watching not only the collapse of a dictatorship but the collapse of a man whose body simply could not prop up the myth any longer.

So what do we do with all of this? Does illness explain evil? Obviously not. If insomnia, anxiety, constipation, or an undersized member caused genocide, your local pharmacy might be the most dangerous shop in Britain. But dictators differ from the rest of us in one crucial respect: they cannot admit weakness. Their bodies must be perfect, invincible, beyond criticism. And when the flesh inevitably falters, they respond not with acceptance but with denial, projection, rage, and  in several cases  mass murder.

History is usually written as a story of ideas and armies, but the private insecurities of powerful men have a habit of spilling messily into the public realm.

We do know one thing for sure. As Professor Turi King, the lead geneticist on this latest research on Hitlers DNA, says: If he were to look at his own genetic results, he would have almost certainly have sent himself to the gas chambers.

Hitlers DNA: Blueprint of a Dictator will air on Channel 4 on Saturday, 15 November 2025 at 9pm
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A teenager has been charged with murder after the death of a 17-year-old girl in South Wales.

Gwent Police were called to a property in Wheatley Place, Cefn Fforest, around 7.15am on Thursday after reports that two people had suffered serious injuries.

The girl, named as Lainie Williams, was pronounced dead at the scene, the force said.

A second person, a woman aged 38 also from Cefn Fforest, has since been discharged from hospital.

Cameron Cheng, 18, has been charged with murder and attempted murder, as well as possession of a bladed article.

Cheng, who the force said is a British national from Newbridge, will appear at Newport Magistrates Court on Monday.

Assistant Chief Constable Vicki Townsend said: We understand that there has been a great deal of interest in this investigation.

It is vital that people consider how their language, especially comments made online, could affect our ability to bring anyone found to have committed a criminal offence to justice.

Even though weve reached this significant development in the investigation, our inquiries continue so it is likely that residents will continue to see officers in the area.

So if anyone has any information, please speak to our officers or contact us in the usual way.
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When answering a 999 call from a young woman who said she believed she had been spiked at a networking event, the Metropolitan Police were unaware they were about to stumble across one of the UKs worst sex offenders.

Despite going under the radar for years as he abused a series of women in London, it took just a matter of minutes for Chao Xus web of depravity to be revealed.

The 33-year-old was caught after his victim was not rendered fully unconscious by the stupefying drugs he had placed in her cocktail, which he had named The Spirit of Life.

He had invited to the woman to his Greenwich flat on 31 May under the guise that she could meet other professionals, before placing GHB and Scopolamine in her drink and sexually assaulting her.

She recalled being powerless to defend herself and remembered seeing Xu film her being raped as she lay in and out of consciousness. Once she regained full capacity of herself, she confronted him and asked to see his phone. Once he refused, she remained in the same room with him as she told 999 she suspected he had spiked, abused and filmed her.

open image in gallery Chao Xu pleaded guilty to 24 sexual offences against at least 12 victims (Metropolitan Police/PA) ( PA Media )

Within minutes, officers had arrived and Xu handed over the PIN to his mobile device. While he appeared calm and compliant to police, a forensic digital download revealed deeply disturbing videos and images which documented his years of sexual abuse.

He has now been jailed for life with a minimum term of 14 years after pleading guilty to 24 sex offences.

As well as spiking young women who attended his networking events, Xu placed hidden cameras around his property and at his office in Canary Wharf to spy on other victims, and upskirted hundreds of women on public transport, particularly targeting London Bridge tube station.

Prosecutor Catherine Farrelly KC told Woolwich Crown Court: The evidence gathered by the police shows the defendant to be a bold and persistent sexual predator whose offending has steadily become more and more serious. The evidence revealed he was so emboldened he was willing to strike anywhere. At his own home address, at his place of work and in train stations and also willing to strike in respect of anyone.

She added: It appears that no woman was safe around him.

open image in gallery A cocktail drink named 'The Spirit of Life' that Xu would regularly make for his guests and use to spike victims ( Met Police )

His offending was mainly planned in a very careful way. He would use hidden cameras to record unsuspecting victims, whether by concealing them in his bathroom at home or by covertly using his mobile telephone to record what he was doing and, even more concerningly, he would use drugs - most likely GHB - to incapacitate some of his victims so he could then abuse them over the course of hours, recording what he was doing as some sort of token.

Prior to his arrest, it is not believed that anyone suspected Xu, who had been offending in plain sight. Described by police as relatively wealthy with a nice flat in Stretton Mansions, he had been the director of a recruitment company and had been very generous towards those that knew him.

While he had a girlfriend, little is known about his background in China, with police liaising with their Chinese counterparts to uncover more information as part of the ongoing investigation.

Having moved to the UK in 2016, he had studied International Law at Greenwich University, before remaining in the UK on a working visa until his arrest. Police believe that the majority of his offending occurred in London, and that he very infrequently left the city.

Through his business, which primarily helped Chinese graduate students, he began hosting events at his home which were described as professional networking opportunities.

open image in gallery A camera hidden inside a bag of sanitary pads ( Met Police )

While several of his guests would be offered The Spring of Life, which contained various alcoholic substances and Chinese herbal medicines, police believe he would single out his intended victim and place drugs in her drink.

Other secret cameras were hidden inside everyday items such as air freshener, a packet of sanitary pads, a digital clock, a speaker, and under a wash basin. They had also been used to film women without their knowledge, and police said that Xu had compiled his various videos and images for his own sexual gratification.

The first victim in the case is unknown, and was targeted by Xu in February 2022 with detectives discovering 37 videos and two images of the half-dressed unconscious victim being sexually abused by him. A second unknown victim was also caught on camera at his previous address in Newington Causeway, with his cat visible in the background.

Investigating officers were also able to pinpoint London Bridge as the location for many of his upskirting crimes, but it is believed that he may have also targeted women at other underground stations.

He admitted four counts of rape, eight counts of assault by penetration, four counts of sexual assault, four counts of voyeurism, two counts of administering a substance with intent, and two counts of operating equipment beneath the clothing of another without consent between February 2022 and June 2025.

His Honour Judge Christopher Grout said Xu was an incredibly dangerous man who took great enjoyment from his offending.

The judge told Xu: Your behaviour was calculated and planned, evidenced by the covert recording systems you had set up in your flats and the fact you had incapacitated a number of your victims by drugging them.

You betrayed the trust of a number of women who you befriended in the most appalling ways imaginable.

The lead investigator, Detective Chief Inspector Lewis Sanderson, said: This case has revealed a deeply disturbing pattern of behaviour that spans several years. Xu operated in environments that were meant to be safe.

University circles, professional networks and public spaces. He used trust, familiarity and social gatherings to pursue his actions and target vulnerable individuals. We know from the evidence recovered that many women were filmed without their knowledge and consent.

Police are now appealing for anyone with information, or who suspects they may have been a victim of Xus offending to come forward. Since their initial appeal in August, 11 more women have come forward and the investigation remains ongoing.

DCI Sanderson continued: Our work does not stop here. The investigation remains very much open, and we believe there are many more victimspotentially hundredsboth in the UK and overseas. If you think you may have been targeted by Xu, please come forward and speak with our team. You will be treated with empathy, kindness, and respect, and we will do everything possible to support you.

Police said anyone wishing to make a report relating to Xu can contact them via email on operation.kafka@met.police.uk or by phoning 02071753802.

People can also make a report to police by calling 101 from within the UK, quoting reference 01/7563135/25.
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A man has been charged with allegedly impersonating a British military official during a Remembrance Sunday event.

North Wales Police said they made an arrest on Friday after a man was seen wearing the uniform and medals of a high-ranking Navy officer during a wreath-laying service in Llandudno, Conwy, on Sunday November 9.

Jonathan Carley, 64, from the Harlech area of Gwynedd, has been charged with wearing uniform and dress bearing the mark of His Majesty's Forces without permission.

He is due to appear in Caernarfon Magistrates Court on Thursday, according to North Wales Police.

Chief inspector Trystan Bevan said: We understand that this incident has caused significant public concern, particularly given its occurrence on Remembrance Sunday.

( AP )

In response to the reports made to North Wales Police, officers have responded swiftly to make an arrest and proceed with charges.

We urge members of the public to avoid online speculation and to refrain from sharing any content that could compromise future court proceedings.
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Permanent asylum in the UK is set to be scrapped with most migrants only granted temporary stays until their home countries are safe to return to.

Shabana Mahmood will announce a radical overhaul of the asylum system, inspired by reforms in Denmark, on Monday.

Under the plans, most successful asylum seekers will only be able to stay in the UK temporarily, and face being returned back to their home country when it is deemed safe.

Ms Mahmood is also expected to introduce greater restrictions on refugees bringing family members to the UK. Under Denmarks system, refugees have to be at least aged 24 before they can apply for their partners to join them.

In Denmark, refugees are given temporary residence permits, typically of two years, and there is no guarantee of getting a permanent visa. In order to stay in Denmark permanently, refugees have to show that they can speak Danish and have held a job for at least three years. Refugees also risk losing their residency if they visit their home country.

The home secretary is reportedly expected to challenge MPs to the left of her party on Monday, warning: if you dont like this, you wont like what follows me. The government is under pressure to go further to bring down levels of immigration due to the political threat from Reform UK.

Ms Mahmood said on Friday that she would be announcing the most significant changes to our asylum system in modern times.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has pledged to restore order and control to the countrys immigration system ( PA )

In a video posted to X/Twitter, she said: We need to reduce the numbers coming here illegally, we need to remove more people who have no right to be here. We will always be a country that gives sanctuary to those fleeing danger, but we must restore order and control.

Under the current system, migrants who are granted refugee status get a five-year period of leave to remain in the UK and they can then apply to stay indefinitely. Once they have indefinite leave to remain, they can then apply for British citizenship.

The home secretary announced in September that asylum seekers will have to earn their right to remain in the UK. Migrants who want to remain in the UK will have to learn English to a high standard, have a clean criminal record and volunteer in the community to be eligible for indefinite leave to remain.

They will also have to be working, paying national insurance and not be claiming benefits under the proposed changes.

More than 300 charities and voluntary organisations warned Ms Mahmood on Friday against making volunteering compulsory. In an open letter, coordinated by Asylum Matters, Focus on Labour Exploitation and Praxis, charities said: We will not work with coerced volunteers. We will not report to the Home Office on the time people give freely, to us and to their communities.

Enver Solomon, chief executive of the Refugee Council, hit back at suggestions that asylum seekers came to the UK because they were attracted by government support. He said: Refugees dont compare asylum systems before running for their lives. They come to the UK because they already have family here, speak some English or have long-standing ties that help them rebuild their lives in safety.

In reality, people in that situation will often be unable to safely return after only a few years. Attempts to deter people by reducing their rights once they arrive have been tried many times by previous governments and simply havent worked. They dont stop dangerous journeys; they just create more uncertainty and keep families apart.

Minnie Rahman, CEO of refugee charity Praxis, added: Stripping migrants of basic human rights isnt reform - its the first step down a very dangerous slope, especially with parties holding extreme views on migration circling the next election. Today its migrants. Tomorrow its anyone who becomes politically inconvenient.

Labour has paused refugees ability to apply to bring their family members to the UK, suspending the legal visa route. Charities, including the British Red Cross, criticised the move and warned that it may fuel more dangerous Channel crossings.
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Donald Trump has announced his intention to sue the BBC next week, following the broadcaster's apology but refusal to offer compensation over a controversial Panorama documentary.

The programme, aired just a week prior to the 2024 US election results, is accused of misleadingly editing a speech Mr Trump delivered on 6 January 2021.

It spliced two distinct clips, creating the impression that Mr Trump instructed the crowd: Were going to walk down to the Capitol  and Ill be there with you. And we fight. We fight like hell.

Critics argue that the edit was deceptive, omitting a crucial segment where Mr Trump urged his supporters to demonstrate peacefully.

This controversy led to the resignations of two senior BBC executives.

Here is how the saga unfolded.

open image in gallery Donald Trump has threatened to sue the BBC for up to $5 billion ( PA Wire )

Tuesday 4 November

The Telegraph reported that a memo on impartiality by Michael Prescott, a former external adviser to the BBCs editorial standards committee, had raised concerns in the summer about the documentary Trump: A Second Chance?

It said the clips were spliced together to make it appear he had told supporters he was going to walk to the US Capitol with them to fight like hell.

The Telegraph story prompted claims that the corporation selectively edited the speech and misled the public.

Mr Trumps press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in the first comments by the White House on the row, later told the Telegraph: This purposefully dishonestly, selectively edited clip by the BBC is further evidence that they are total, 100 per cent fake news that should no longer be worth the time on the television screens of the great people of the United Kingdom.

Sunday 9 November

Tim Davie announced he would step down as director-general of the BBC after five years in the role, saying there have been some mistakes made and he had to take ultimate responsibility.

The chief executive of BBC News, Deborah Turness, also announced her resignation on Sunday night, declaring in her statement the controversy had reached a stage where it is causing damage to the BBC  an institution that I love.

She went on: As the CEO of BBC News and Current Affairs, the buck stops with me  and I took the decision to offer my resignation to the director-general last night.

In public life leaders need to be fully accountable, and that is why I am stepping down.

Though she agreed that mistakes were made, she rejected claims the BBC was institutionally biased.

The resignations came after Dame Caroline Dinenage, chairwoman of the Commons Culture, Media and Sport Committee, wrote to BBC chairman Samir Shah asking what actions he would take over the controversy.

Mr Trump welcomed the BBC resignations and claimed there had been an attempt to step on the scales of a presidential election, adding on social media: What a terrible thing for Democracy!

Monday 10 November

Mr Shah responded to Dame Carolines letter saying the corporation would like to apologise for that error of judgment.

He said there have been more than 500 complaints since the publication of the memo, adding: We accept that the way the speech was edited did give the impression of a direct call for violent action.

Earlier in the day, Dame Caroline said Mr Davie ignored concerns raised in Mr Prescotts report.

She told BBC Radio 4s Today she was very sad about Mr Davies resignation, calling him an effective leader at the BBC but said he should have reacted with concern and examined the claims, but just ignored it.

When she arrived at Broadcasting House in central London on Monday, Ms Turness told reporters the corporation is not institutionally biased and the journalists are not corrupt.

Downing Street also rejected claims the BBC is corrupt or institutionally biased, with the prime ministers official spokesman adding it is important that the BBC acts to maintain trust and correct mistakes quickly when they occur.

open image in gallery The chief executive of BBC News, Deborah Turness, has resigned over the controversy ( PA Wire )

Tuesday 11 November

Mr Trump sent an ultimatum to the BBC demanding it retract false and defamatory statements made about him in the Panorama documentary, or face a billion-dollar legal action.

In a letter to the corporation, Mr Trumps lawyers said: Failure to comply will leave President Trump with no choice but to pursue any and all legal rights and remedies available to recover damages for the overwhelming financial and reputational harm that the BBC has caused him to suffer, with all rights and remedies being expressly reserved by President Trump.

The White House may also consider restricting the corporations access to open press events as a result of the edit, according to a senior official quoted in the Telegraph.

On the same day, Mr Davie told staff the corporation has to stand up for our journalism, and insisted it will control its own narrative which will not just be given by our enemies.

In remarks to BBC staff, he said: We have to be very clear and stand up for our journalism.

We are a unique and precious organisation, and I see the free press under pressure, I see the weaponisation. I think weve got to fight for our journalism.

open image in gallery Tim Davie said the BBC is a unique and precious organisation ( Getty )

Wednesday 12 November

Mr Trump told Fox News the BBC defrauded the public, adding: I think I have an obligation to do it, you cant allow people to do that.

I guess I have to. They defrauded the public and theyve admitted it. This is within one of our great allies, supposedly our great ally.

Thats a pretty sad event. They actually changed my January 6 speech, which was a beautiful speech, which was a very calming speech, and they made it sound radical.

They showed me the results of how they butchered it up. It was very dishonest and the head man quit and a lot of the other people quit.

At Prime Ministers Questions, Sir Keir Starmer said he believed in a strong and independent BBC but it needed to uphold the highest standards.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey claimed Mr Trump was trying to destroy our BBC and called on Sir Keir to tell President Trump to drop his demand for a billion-dollar settlement and guarantee that he will not get a single penny from British licence fee payers.

Sir Keir replied: I believe in a strong and independent BBC. Some would rather the BBC didnt exist. Some of them are sitting up there. Im not one of them.

In an age of disinformation, the argument for impartial British news service is stronger than ever, and where mistakes are made, they do need to get their house in order, and the BBC must uphold the highest standards to be accountable and correct errors quickly.

Thursday 13 November

The BBC officially apologised to Mr Trump over the editing of the speech which appeared in the Panorama documentary, adding it was an error of judgment and the programme will not be broadcast again in this form on any BBC platforms.

The corporation however rejected the US presidents claims he had been defamed as well as his demands for compensation.

Mr Shah sent a personal letter to the White House to apologise for the editing of the speech but added: While the BBC sincerely regrets the manner in which the video clip was edited, we strongly disagree there is a basis for a defamation claim.

Friday 14 November

Mr Trump said he will sue the BBC next week after the corporation apologised but declined to compensate him.

Speaking to reporters on board Air Force One on Friday, he said: Well sue them for anywhere between $1 billion (759.8 million) and $5 billion (3.79 billion), probably sometime next week.

Mr Trump also told the Daily Telegraph that Sir Keir was very embarrassed by the incident and said he would speak with him over the weekend.

He said: I think I have to do it. Theyve even admitted that they cheated  they changed the words coming out of my mouth.

The people of the UK are very angry about what happened.

open image in gallery Samir Shah said there was no basis for a defamation case ( UK Parliament )

Monday 17 November

Mr Shah told staff the BBC was determined to fight Mr Trump after the president announced he was suing the corporation.

In an email seen by Sky News, the chair said there was no basis for a defamation case. There is a lot being written, said and speculated upon about the possibility of legal action, including potential costs or settlements, he said.

In all this we are, of course, acutely aware of the privilege of our funding and the need to protect our licence fee payers, the British public.

I want to be very clear with you  our position has not changed. There is no basis for a defamation case and we are determined to fight this.

open image in gallery Shumeet Banerji resigned from his role on 21 November ( Reliance Industries Ltd )

Friday 21 November

BBC board member Shumeet Banerji resigned from his role, citing governance issues as the reason behind his exit.

Mr Banerji said in a letter that he was not consulted about the events leading up to the resignations of the director general, Mr Davie, and BBC News chief executive, Ms Turness.

According to the BBC, his blaming of governance issues appeared to be a direct criticism of chair Mr Shah and other members of the board.

On Friday, a BBC spokesperson said: Shumeet Banerji today notified the BBC board of his resignation. Mr Banerjis term on the board as a non-executive director was due to end at the end of December and we thank him for his service.

Monday 24 November

Mr Shah and board members Sir Robbie Gibb and Caroline Thomson are due to give evidence to the culture, media and sport committee of MPs on Monday.

The committee will examine the claims made in the leaked document written by Mr Prescott, and the board members will likely face questions over claims of systemic issues within the BBC, which were first laid out in the document.

Mr Shah is under pressure for his handling of the situation, and is due to face tough questions alongside his colleagues. Mr Prescott will also give evidence to the committee over his concerns about editorial standards at the BBC.
SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- A new opera based on the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West made its world premiere Friday evening at the War Memorial Opera House in San Francisco, presenting the Monkey King to audiences through a blend of Eastern and Western artistic traditions.

"Monkey King," with music by composer Huang Ruo and a libretto by playwright David Henry Hwang, was commissioned by San Francisco Opera in partnership with the Chinese Heritage Foundation of Minnesota. The opera will run through Nov. 30.

Adapted from the opening chapters of Ming Dynasty writer Wu Cheng'en's Journey to the West, the opera chronicles the early exploits of the Monkey King, or Sun Wukong. Performed in both English and Chinese, it weaves opera, dance and puppetry into the story of the stone-born monkey who challenges the gods of the seas and heavens in his pursuit of immortality.

Running about 2 hours and 20 minutes, the production combines centuries-old techniques with modern innovation. Traditional Chinese shadow-puppet methods appear alongside digital mapping projections, creating a visual language that connects historical forms with contemporary stage design.

Costumes also reflect this fusion: several chorus outfits draw from traditional patterns while incorporating street-art elements made possible through 3D printing. The score mirrors this blend by pairing Western symphonic instruments with traditional Chinese ones such as the pipa, Chinese opera gong and small crash cymbals.

Calling the Monkey King "Asia's supreme superhero," Huang Ruo said the character's appeal reaches far beyond China.

"The Monkey King's adventures awaken in him an understanding of true power which leads to his self-enlightenment," he said, voicing hope that the new opera will always appear in any "turbulent" time as "a positive light."

San Francisco Opera General Director Matthew Shilvock said the production continues the company's long-running commitment to cultural exchange. "I am so proud that San Francisco Opera is bringing this operatic 'Monkey King' to life," he said, calling it a privilege to present "one of the great stories of Chinese literature on the American opera stage."

To deepen audience engagement, San Francisco Opera and community partners are hosting a range of cultural activities during the performance run. The opera house features hands-on experiences and an art exhibition showcasing works inspired by the Monkey King legend, along with opportunities for traditional Chinese calligraphy and themed photo sessions.

Additional events -- including panel discussions, puppetry workshops, film screenings, exhibitions and an outdoor public marketplace -- extend the world premiere beyond the stage and into the wider community. 
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Former chancellor George Osborne is in the running to become the next chair of HSBC, according to numerous reports.

Multiple sources told Sky News the ex-politician, who served as chancellor under David Cameron between 2010 and 2016, is one of three remaining candidates to take over as chair from Sir Mark Tucker.

The outlet reported Mr Osborne had been approached over the job during the summer amid a long-running hunt for Sir Marks successor. The bank refused to confirm or deny these reports when approached for comment by The Independent.

HSBC Holdings is the second-largest FTSE-100 company, with a market capitalisation of almost 190bn, making its chairmanship one of Britains top corporate jobs.

Mr Osbornes inclusion on a list of contenders is seen as surprising due to his lack of direct banking and boardroom experience. Since leaving political office in 2017, he has held a variety of positions including the editorship of the London Standard. He is currently a partner at merger advisory firm Robey Warshaw.

The former chancellor has had a number of different roles since 2016 ( PA )

Also reported to be on the shortlist are former Barclays finance director Naguib Kheraj, and Kevin Sneader of Goldman Sachs.

The banking giant launched a search for Sir Marks successor in May after he informed the board of his intention to end his eight-year tenure.

Sir Mark, who took on the role of chair in October 2017, has been at the helm of HSBC during crises including the Covid pandemic and the rising cost of living, and growing tensions between the US and China.

Ann Godbehere, who sits on the board and is leading the search for a successor, said Sir Mark had provided excellent stewardship of the bank through the Covid 19 pandemic, and most recently, led the group CEO succession process.

Very importantly, he has also deepened the groups relationships with key clients, regulators and investors around the world, she added.

A HSBC spokesperson said: "Brendan Nelson was appointed interim chairman on 1 October. The process to appoint a new chairman continues and we will provide an update in due course.

Mr Osborne could not be reached for comment.
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A train crew member seriously injured while shielding passengers during the Huntingdon stabbings has been discharged from hospital, according to the British Transport Police.

Samir Zitouni, 48, was left fighting for his life after suffering multiple injuries during the major incident on board the London North Eastern Railway (LNER) train from Doncaster to London on 1 November.

He was rushed to hospital where he remained until Saturday. In a statement, his family thanked the public for an outpouring of support, but said Mr Zitouni had a significant recovery ahead.

They said: We are so grateful for the outpouring of support from the public, and very touched by all the kind words about Sams brave actions on the night of the attack.

While we are really happy to have him home, he still has a significant recovery ahead and we would now like to be left in privacy to care for him as a family.

open image in gallery Samir Zitouni was among 11 patients treated in hospital (LNER/PA) ( PA Media )

Mr Zitouni has been hailed as a hero after potentially saving multiple lives on board the train. LNER said he has worked for the firm for more than 20 years as a customer experience host, which largely involves providing onboard catering.

He was among 11 patients treated in hospital for injuries sustained during the attack.

A spokesperson for the British Transport Police said: A 48-year-old member of LNER rail staff has been discharged from hospital today (15 November) following the major incident at Huntingdon on 1 November.

Samir Zitouni had been in a critical condition having suffered multiple injuries, and thanks to the efforts of NHS medical staff hes been able to be discharged from hospital today to continue his recovery at home.

open image in gallery Anthony Williams, the suspect in the stabbing, has been remanded in custody ( X )

David Horne, managing director for LNER previously paid tribute to Mr Zitouni, saying he did not hesitate to protect passengers during a moment of crisis.

He said: In a moment of crisis, Sam did not hesitate as he stepped forward to protect those around him. His actions were incredibly brave, and we are so proud of him, and of all our colleagues who acted with such courage that evening.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with Sam and his family. We will continue to support them and wish him a full and speedy recovery.

Police have charged Anthony Williams, 32, with ten counts of attempted murder over the incident. He was remanded into custody at Peterborough Magistrates Court on 3 November and is set to appear at Cambridge Crown Court on 1 December.
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Sir Keir Starmers predecessor as Director of Public Prosecutions will lead a major review of protest powers and hate crime laws.

Home secretary Shabana Mahmood announced in October that police forces would be granted new powers to put conditions on repeat protests and pledged an independent review of existing protest and hate crime laws.

The move came after an attack on a synagogue in Manchester that left two dead.

Now a former head of the Crown Prosecution Service, the body responsible for charging decisions in England and Wales, Lord Ken Macdonald KC, has been tasked with considering whether legislation should go further to keep people safe.

Ms Mahmood has commissioned the review after being concerned about the impact of both public protest and hate crime on cohesion and safety.

Lord Ken Macdonald, a former director of public prosecutions, will lead an independent review into protest and hate crime powers ( AFP/Getty )

Lord Macdonald, who was previously a defence lawyer, is being asked to examine the current offences for aggravated behaviour and stirring up hatred.

He has been asked to look at whether the law is sufficiently protecting communities from hate and intimidation.

Ms Mahmood said: The terrorist attack in Manchester on 2 October shocked the nation and showed how hatred and division can fuel violence.

It happened at a time of growing concern about protests and hate crime in this country.

Our laws must protect the public, while upholding the right to protest and free speech.

She added: Lawful protest and free speech are fundamental rights, but we cannot allow them to be abused to spread hate or cause disorder. The law must be fit for purpose and consistently applied.

Human rights group Liberty has previously warned that plans to restrict repeat protests risk seeing the right to protest in the UK stripped to the bone.

Earlier in November, Ruth Ehrlich, head of policy at Liberty, said: Police already have extensive powers to restrict protests, yet these measures add to an ever-expanding web of anti-protest laws.

They recommended ministers focus on examine why existing laws are supposedly failing and ensure peoples rights to demonstrate are protected.
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Warning: Some readers may find the content of this article distressing

They kept hitting me in the stomach, and when I tried to breathe, I started to choke on the blood. My cellmates shouted for help, saying they were killing us, but the officers said they just wanted to make us suffer.

The harrowing testimony of Daniel B* is among dozens collected by human rights groups since the 252 Venezuelan migrants were repatriated from one of El Salvadors most notorious prisons in July this year.

Five months earlier, they had been deported there from the US as part of Donald Trumps much-publicised migration crackdown.

El Salvadors maximum security Centro de Confinamiento del Terrorismo (CECOT) has become emblematic of strongman president Nayib Bukeles brutal crackdown on organised crime in recent years. Bukele boasts of the project, sharing curated images of guards hauling shaven prisoners through the compound as evidence of his triumph over the gangs.

But Bukeles prison goes beyond taking El Salvadors most dangerous off the streets, monitoring groups warn. CECOT has been branded a black hole of human rights amid reports of overcrowding, arbitrary beatings and the denial of any contact with the outside world.

open image in gallery Prisoners from the United States were sent to El Salvador in March and detained at the notorious CECOT prison ( El Salvadors presidency press office )

Prisoners are sent to CECOT with the expectation that they will never leave.

A rare insight into this bleak reality came when Human Rights Watch (HRW) spoke to many of those released back to Venezuela.

Its report, published this week, claimed that while inside the prison, detainees were subjected to sexual violence; beaten for requesting medical treatment; held in incommunicado detention; and given water for bathing and drinking containing vermin and worms.

CECOT was built in 2023 against the backdrop of Bukeles State of Exception, a legal framework that allowed the president to suspend certain constitutional rights as part of a broader campaign against gang violence.

Decades of lawlessness in El Salvador forced an exodus of people north, often towards the United States. Politicians offered few solutions. That was until former advertising executive Bukele cracked down on the gang, and the homicide rate fell fast.

International observers, including Freedom House and Amnesty International, warn that Bukeles policies have seen thousands of arbitrary detentions, the use of torture in detention centres, and hundreds of deaths under state custody.

A third of those detained under the State of Exception are estimated to be innocent, according to the Socorro Juridico Humanitario rights group.

The HRW report featured testimonies of Venezuelans deported to El Salvador from the United States in March and April. It includes harrowing accounts of alleged systematic abuse in custody over the following four months.

Gonzalo Y* said that when they landed in El Salvador, they were taken off the plane and told to kneel with their heads down. When he tried to explain that he had a spinal condition affecting his mobility, he said he was struck in the neck with a baton. When they arrived at the prison, they were told to kneel again so that they could be shaved.

open image in gallery Prisoners are crammed into tiny cells and entirely exposed in Tecoluca ( Reuters )

One of the officers hit me on the legs with a baton, and I fell to the ground on my knees. Another inmate said the prisoner director told them, You have arrived in hell.

The testimonies went on to corroborate past reports about the gruelling conditions inside the prison. Inmates are reportedly confined to cells for all but 30 minutes a day, forbidden from going outside, and made to sleep on steel beds without mattresses.

The conditions were horrific, said Julian G*, a 29-year-old athlete: There was mould, the floor was black and sticky, the toilets were filthy, it smelled of urine, and the water we had in the tanks  used both for bathing and for drinking  was yellow and had worms.

Another detainee said they were never given a change of clothes. They said they were given soap once a week, but never enough to clean everything.

Every former detainee, they said, reported serious physical and psychological abuse on a near-daily basis.

Three told the investigating rights groups that they had been subjected to sexual violence. One alleged four guards had sexually abused him and forced him to perform oral sex on one of them.

Most interviewees told HRW that medical staff at the prison provided little to no care. Thirty-seven of the 40 former detainees said they fell ill during their time at CECOT.

open image in gallery Some 252 Venezuelans were repatriated from El Salvador as part of a prisoner exchange on 18 July ( Getty )

Former detainees also spoke of the psychological trauma that life in the prison had brought.

Flavio T* said that the hardest part of detention was that the guards told us we would never get out of there, that our families had given us up for dead.

Former detainees described a short-lived revolt against the guards in the form of a hunger strike. In May, inmates stopped eating for three days in the hopes of pressuring guards to stop the beatings.

On the first day, some also organised a blood strike, cutting themselves with a sharpened piece of aluminium found in a water tank and using the blood to write we are migrants, not terrorists on a bed sheet to be raised as a banner.

They said a government official promised there would be no more beatings, but they continued.

The detainees were finally released from CECOT prison in July. Two or three days before they left, they said guards brought in mattresses and dentists, cleaning them up for the worlds cameras.

Abigail Jackson, White House spokesperson, told The Independent: President Trump is committed to keeping his promises to the American people by removing dangerous criminal and terrorist illegal aliens who pose a threat to the American public. The mainstream media should spend their time and energy amplifying the stories of Angel Parents, whose innocent American children have tragically been murdered by vicious illegal aliens that President Trump is removing from the country.

*Pseudonyms in HRW report
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President Donald Trump said Friday that he had successfully eased hostilities between Cambodia and Thailand, saying that he'd been able to preserve a previous, U.S.-brokered ceasefire that had appeared to be breaking down.

I stopped a war just today, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One as he flew to his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida for the weekend. He said his actions were made possible by his willingness to impose steep tariffs on countries around the world, which he has argued gives the U.S. great leverage on trade and diplomatic leverage.

The president said he'd spoken to the prime ministers of both countries by phone and now, Theyre doing great. They were not doing great.

He said the conversations left him believing, I think theyre going to be fine.

Territorial disputes over exactly where the border lies between the Southeast Asian neighbors led to five days of armed conflict in late July that killed dozens of soldiers and civilians.

Trump threatened to withhold trade privileges from the two countries unless they stopped fighting, helping to broker a temporary halt to the conflict. The pact was then reaffirmed in greater detail last month, when Trump attended an Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit meeting in Malaysia.

The ceasefire seemed on the verge of falling apart this week, however, when Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said a villager was killed after shooting broke out along his countrys border with Thailand.

Manet said one civilian was killed and three others wounded when Thai troops opened fire on civilians residing in the area of Prey Chan in Cambodias northwestern province of Banteay Meanchey. The same village was the site of a violent but not lethal confrontation in September between Thai security personnel and Cambodian villagers.

The Thai military said that the latest incident began when Cambodian soldiers allegedly fired into a district in Thailands eastern province of Sa Kaeo. No Thai casualties were reported.

Thailand and Cambodia have a history of enmity going back centuries, when they were warring empires. Their competing territorial claims stem largely from a 1907 map drawn when Cambodia was under French colonial rule, which Thailand has argued is inaccurate.

The ceasefire does not spell out a path to resolve the underlying basis of the dispute, the longstanding differences over where the border should run.

__

Megerian reported from aboard Air Force One.
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The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced on Friday its intention to roll back some commercial flight restrictions at 40 major U.S. airports, reducing mandatory flight cuts from six percent to three percent.

This adjustment follows the record 43-day shutdown, which concluded on November 12, despite previous warnings that restrictions would persist until air traffic control staffing stabilized and safety metrics improved.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy had repeatedly underscored this position. The unprecedented order, in effect since November 7, had impacted thousands of flights.

The FAA's chief previously stated that troubling data necessitated the measure to relieve pressure on the aviation system as the shutdown entered its second month, exacerbated by a rise in controller absences. Many controllers, unpaid for over a month, cited financial strain and the necessity of taking on side jobs.

The FAA originally had a 10 percent target, but officials held off on further rate increases because they said more controllers were coming to work amid news that Congress was close to reaching a deal to end the shutdown. ( MIGUEL J. RODRIGUEZ CARRILLO/AFP via Getty Images )

The flight cuts started at 4 percent and later grew to 6 percent. The FAA originally had a 10 percent target, but officials held off on further rate increases because they said more controllers were coming to work amid news that Congress was close to reaching a deal to end the shutdown.

Air traffic controllers missed two paychecks during the impasse.

Duffy hasnt shared the specific safety data that prompted the cuts, but he cited reports during the shutdown of planes getting too close in the air, more runway incursions and pilot concerns about controllers responses.

How long it will take for the aviation system to stabilize is unclear. The flight restrictions upended airline operations in just a matter of days. Many planes were rerouted and arent where theyre supposed to be. Airlines for America, the trade group of U.S. airlines, warned there could be residual effects for days.

Some experts predicted the problems could linger longer but airline executives were optimistic that flying could quickly return to normal ahead of the busy Thanksgiving travel week.

The nationwide shortage of controllers isnt new, but the shutdown put a spotlight on the problem and likely made it worse. Duffy said that by the end of the shutdown, 1520 controllers were retiring daily, and some younger controllers were leaving the profession.
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Hugh Jackman made a surprise appearance Friday at an Indiana sheriff's corporal's memorial after the official died in an on-duty crash.

Corporal Blake Reynolds died on Wednesday on I-69 near Yorktown while pulling over and helping a disabled semi. Another semi driver lost control and hit both Reynolds patrol car and the disabled vehicle.

The Delaware County Sheriffs Department created a memorial outside its Muncie station, where the community left flowers to honor Reynolds and support his family.

Rick Snyder, president of the Indianapolis Fraternal Order of Police, shared photos of Wolverine star visiting Reynolds memorial on X.

Shoutout to world-renowned actor and producer Hugh Jackman for stopping by and paying his respects at the Memorial for Fallen Delaware County (IN) Corporal Blake Reynolds, Snyder wrote in the post, adding, Sacrifice touches the spirit of everyone.

open image in gallery Hugh Jackman attended the Muncie, Indiana, memorial of Corporal Blake Reynolds, who was hit and killed this week while pulling over and helping another stranded semi truck driver ( Getty Images )

Jackman, who is dating his former Broadway co-star Sutton Foster, an adjunct theatre faculty member at Ball State in Muncie, also stopped by City Hall, as seen in more photos shared on social media.

"Actor Hugh Jackman stopped by for a visit with Mayor Ridenour and city hall staff! We were honored to welcome him to Muncie and share a glimpse of the awesome work happening in our community, reads a Facebook post from the City of Muncie.

His kindness, energy and genuine interest in our city made this visit one we wont soon forget."

Jackmans return to Indiana comes two months after he spoke at a Ball State Department of Theatre and Dance student event in Sursa Hall and also visited a media class.

open image in gallery Jackman also stopped by Muncie City Hall and visited with Mayor Dan Ridenour and staff ( Facebook/City of Muncie )

Jackman and Foster have been dating since early this year, following his split from wife Deborra-Lee Furness. Their 27-year marriage ended in 2023.

Around the time her alleged romance with Jackman surfaced, Foster filed for divorce from her 10-year marriage to Ted Griffin.
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A South Carolina firing squad has executed Stephen Bryant, 44, on Friday, making him the third person to die by this method in the state this year. Bryant, who was condemned for killing three people in a rural area over five days in 2004, chose the firing squad over lethal injection or the electric chair.

Pronounced dead at 6:05 p.m., Bryant made no final statement, offering only a brief glance at the 10 witnesses before a hood was placed on his head. Three prison employees, all with live ammunition, carried out the execution.

Shots rang out approximately 55 seconds later. Bryant made no noise as the red bullseye target, marking his heart, flew forward from his chest. After a few shallow breaths and a final spasm just over a minute later, a doctor checked him with a stethoscope before pronouncing him dead.

For his final meal, Bryant had spicy mixed seafood stir-fry, fried fish over rice, egg rolls, stuffed shrimp, two candy bars and German chocolate cake. ( The Item via AP )

A media witness said after the execution that a pool of wetness emerged on Bryants chest where he was shot. Three family members of the victims who served as witnesses held hands during the execution.

Bryant is the seventh person put to death by South Carolina in 14 months after the state had a 13-year pause in executions when it couldnt obtain lethal injection drugs.

Republican Gov. Henry McMaster denied clemency for Bryant, according to his office. No South Carolina governor has offered clemency since the death penalty resumed in the U.S. in 1976.

For his final meal, Bryant had spicy mixed seafood stir-fry, fried fish over rice, egg rolls, stuffed shrimp, two candy bars and German chocolate cake.

Bo King, a lawyer who works on death penalty cases in South Carolina, said Bryant had a genetic disorder, was a victim of sexual and physical abuse by relatives, and his mothers binge drinking permanently damaged his body and brain.

Mr. Bryants impairments left him unable to endure the tormenting memories of his childhood, King wrote in a statement.

King said Bryant showed grace and courage in forgiving his family and great love for those in and outside of his prison.

We will remember his unlikely friendships, his fierce protectiveness, and his love for nature, the water, and the world, King wrote.

The firing squad has a long and violent history around the world. Death by a hail of bullets has been used to punish mutinies and desertion in armies, as frontier justice in Americas Old West and as a tool of terror and political repression in the former Soviet Union and Nazi Germany.

But in recent years, it's been revived in the U.S. Some lawmakers say it's the quickest and most humane way to execute a person.

That's since a number of botched executions by other methods, including lethal injection drugs. South Carolina and other states have struggled to maintain adequate supplies of lethal injection drugs.

In part because of this, South Carolina paused executions for 13 years. The state then restarted in September 2024, after which four men have been executed by lethal injection and two by firing squad. The state is among several where the electric chair is still legal.

The three other recent firing squad executions in the U.S. have been in Utah with none in that state since 2010. The method is also still legal in Idaho and a backup method if others aren't available in Oklahoma and Mississippi.

Bryant admitted to killing Willard TJ Tietjen in October 2004 after stopping by his secluded home in rural Sumter County and saying he had car trouble.

Tietjen was shot several times. Bryant then answered Tietjens phone after it rang several times telling both his wife and daughter that he was the prowler and had killed them, prosecutors said.

Bryant also killed two men  one before and one after Tietjen. He gave the men rides and when they got out to urinate on the side of the road, he shot them in the back, authorities said.

During the search, officers stopped nearly everyone driving on dirt roads in the area just east of Columbia, and told people to be leery of anyone they did not know asking for help.

Bryant is the 43rd man killed by court-ordered execution so far this year in the U.S. At least 14 others are scheduled to be put to death during the remainder of 2025 and next year.

Bryant is also the 50th person executed in South Carolina since the state restarted the death penalty 40 years ago.

The curtain opens in the death chamber of the prison with fewer than a dozen witnesses sitting behind bulletproof glass.

The person is strapped into a chair. A white square with a red bulls-eye target is placed over his heart by a doctor. Their lawyer can read a final statement. A prison employee then places a hood over the person's head, walks across the small room and pulls open a black shade where the firing squad waits.

Without an audible or visual warning to witnesses, the shooters then fire high-powered rifles from 15 feet (4.6 meters) away.

A doctor will then come out within a minute or two, examine him and declare him dead.

Lawyers for the last man executed by a firing squad said the shooters nearly missed the heart of Mikal Mahdi. They suggested by barely hitting the bottom of the heart that Mahdi was in agonizing pain for three or four times longer than experts say he would have been if his heart had been hit directly.

Final meal and memoryFiring squad vs. lethal injection drugsThe 2004 killings in rural South CarolinaWhat happens during a firing squad execution
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Protests around a Chicago-area Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility descended into chaos on Friday resulting in 21 arrests and four officers being injured.

Its the latest clash at a facility thats become a hub of demonstrations against the Trump administrations ongoing immigration crackdown in the region.

Videos captured a hundreds-strong crowd and police in riot gear pinning protesters to the ground and arresting them.

Jillian Westerfield, the associate minister at Lake Street Church in Evanston, said she attended the days demonstrations to try to minister to detainees inside the facility. She also wanted to potentially greet some of the hundreds of people who have been ordered released from federal detention in the region, after a federal judge found that agents violated a 2022 settlement agreement over warrantless arrests in Chicago and the surrounding area.

Westerfield said in an interview with the Chicago Sun-Times she saw a group of faith leaders linking arms in the streets and joined in.

For me, it was a spontaneous moment of wanting to join in with the people around me and do what we could to deliver some kind of comfort inside, she told the paper.

open image in gallery 21 people were arrested Friday in protests outside a Chicago-area ICE facility, the latest demonstration against the Trump administrations unpopular immigration crackdown in the region ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

She was pushed down in the chaos and suffered bruises from her fall.

The Cook County Sheriffs Office said the confrontations took place after a section of the crowd exited a designated protest zone and began marching through the roadway, which is restricted.

open image in gallery Four officers were injured as police attempted to push a crowd back into a designated protest zone around the facility ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

Most of those arrested have been charged with obstruction, disorderly conduct, or walking on a highway, the sheriffs office told The Associated Press.

In the ensuing standoff, which did not feature any federal agents, two Broadview Police Department officers and a county deputy were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The deputy has since been released from the hospital.

open image in gallery None of the officers harmed in the protests had life-threatening injuries ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

A fourth officer, an Illinois State Trooper, was reportedly treated at the scene.

In a statement, Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson condemned the officers injuries as unacceptable and outrageous and called on protesters to raise their voices, not their fists.

open image in gallery A federal court has ordered the Trump administration to release hundreds of migrant detainees, finding that federal agents violated a 2022 settlement on warrantless arrests ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

The Trump administration, which has been accused of using excessively violent tactics outside the facility and holding migrants in unsanitary conditions inside it, mocked Fridays protesters.

Womp womp, cry all you want. These criminal illegal aliens arent getting released, the Department of Homeland Security wrote on X. Like clockwork, violent rioters have arrived at the Broadview ICE facility to demand the release of some of the worst human beings on planet earth. Get a job you imbecilic morons.

The Trump administration surged federal immigration officers to the Chicago area in September as part of Operation Midway Blitz, and has tried but so far been legally unable to send National Guard troops into the region against local leaders wishes.
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The city of Charlotte, North Carolina, has become the latest Democratic-run city to be targeted by President Donald Trumps anti-immigration offensive.

Federal law enforcement agents were spotted making arrests across the city Saturday as the Department of Homeland Security confirmed the surge of officers for what the administration is calling Operation Charlottes Web.

We are surging DHS law enforcement to Charlotte to ensure Americans are safe and public safety threats are removed, Homeland Security assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement.

The Trump administrations mass deportation operations have seen a boost in Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection officers into major Democratic-led cities with large immigrant populations in recent months, including Chicago, Los Angeles and Portland.

Charlotte is a racially diverse city of more than 900,000 residents, including more than 150,000 who are foreign-born, according to local officials.

open image in gallery Federal law enforcement agents have surged into Charlotte, North Carolina, the latest Democratic-run city targeted by Donald Trumps anti-immigration offensive ( Middle East Images/AFP via Getty )

The administrations latest deployment creates unnecessary fear and uncertainty, according to a statement signed by Charlottes Democratic Mayor Vi Lyles, County Commissioner Mark Jerrell and Stephanie Sneed of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg education board.

We want people in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County to know we stand with all residents who simply want to go about their lives, they added.

The administration did not publicly announce plans for the latest blitz, nut Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden confirmed earlier this week that two federal officials had told him that Border Patrol agents would be arriving soon.

Paola Garcia, a spokesperson with Camino  a bilingual nonprofit serving families in Charlotte  said she and her colleagues have observed an increase in Border Patrol and ICE agents pulling people over since Friday.

Basically what we're seeing is that there have been lots of people being pulled over, Garcia said. I even saw a few people being pulled over on the way to work yesterday, and then just from community members seeing an increase in ICE and border patrol agents in the city of Charlotte.

open image in gallery Charlotte is a racially diverse city of more than 900,000 residents, including more than 150,000 people who are foreign-born, according to local officials ( Getty Images/iStockphoto )

Willy Aceituno, a Honduran-born U.S. citizen, was on his way to work when he saw Border Patrol agents chasing people.

I saw a lot of Latinos running. I wondered why they were running. The thing is, there were a lot of Border Patrol agents chasing them, he said.

Aceituno, a 46-year-old Charlotte resident, said he himself was stopped  twice  by Border Patrol agents. On the second encounter, they forced him out of his vehicle after breaking the car window and threw him to the ground.

I told them, 'I'm an American citizen, he told The Associated Press. They wanted to know where I was born, or they didn't believe I was an American citizen.

He was allowed to go free after showing documents that proved his citizenship.

open image in gallery Willy Aceituno, left, makes a police report with a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department officer after Border Patrol officers broke his window during an enforcement operation November 15 ( AP )

North Carolina Rep. Alma S. Adams said she was extremely concerned about the deployment of federal agents to Charlotte two days prior.

Charlottes immigrant community is a proud part of the Queen City, and I will not stand by and watch my constituents be intimidated or harassed, Adams said.

Gregory Bovino, the top Border Patrol official overseeing the Trump administrations boots-on-the-ground operations, responded to Adams in a post on X.

Immigrants rest assured, we have your back like we did in Chicago and Los Angeles, Bovino said. Rep. Adams, perhaps you [and] Gov. STEIN should learn the difference between an illegal alien [and] an immigrant.

Bovino and officers under his command in Chicago  where agents were filmed tackling protesters and filling neighborhoods with tear gas  faced a federal lawsuit from protesters, press groups and faith leaders accusing agents of indiscriminately firing riot weapons into crowds and at close range as volatile scenes emerged from protests against immigration raids.

Officials in California , Illinois and Oregon have accused the federal government of deliberately trying to incite violence to justify law enforcement crackdowns and military deployments.

The Associated Press contributed reporting
Las Vegas suburb with mountains in the background - 4kodiak/Getty Images

The cost of living in the United States has continued to rise following the COVID-19 pandemic, with a larger percentage of Americans' paychecks going toward rent. When it comes to renting and owning, both can help you build wealth, according to personal finance experts, with low rent costs as a key factor. Some of the nation's largest municipalities and most expensive states are located along the coasts, but rent has begun to rise even in certain landlocked states. In fact, renting in both Colorado and Nevada has become a financial liability.

In a map published by Visual Capitalist and based on data pulled from the Census Bureau's (USCB) American Community Survey 2024 1-Year Estimates, both states have emerged as some of the priciest locations to rent in; not only in the West but in the nation as a whole. The map shows Nevada with a median monthly rental cost of $1,709, while median rent in its eastern neighbor comes in at $1,822. Both are considerably higher than the national median rate of $1,487, as reported by the USCB (via Visual Capitalist). What's even more surprising, is that both states have considerably higher rents than some of their coastal counterparts, including Oregon and Maine. Behind this increase in rental costs is the steady rise of population, income, and housing prices.

Read more: You've Been Warned: Buying A House In These Florida Cities Will Cost You

Population and income growth are driving up rental costs in both states

City scape of Denver, Colorado - Rudybalasko/Getty Images

Both states have seen a consistent rise in population in recent years, particularly in urban centers like Reno and Denver. This has led to a higher demand for rental properties, driving prices up. The population growth partly stems from a consistent influx of business to the states, which are attractive to entrepreneurs for various reasons. Nevada is one of the states without an income tax, and Reno is experiencing a significant business boom, with growing brands like Patagonia moving in from California and forcing employees to do the same. Meanwhile, Denver is emerging as a major business hub, with companies like Salesforce, Amazon, and Google opening offices in the city.

As people flock to the landlocked states, demand for housing has grown, with higher incomes and fewer available properties. While this growing business interest in the states has led to more residents, it has also inflated the median income. Per the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, the median household income in Nevada went up by 24% between 2020 and 2024, while Colorado's figures soared by 21%. A rapid rise in incomes typically leads to the construction of a large number of higher-priced rental units, while low- and moderate-cost rental developments take a backseat.
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Democrats are planning to radically change or even tear down Donald Trumps planned $300 million, corporate-backed White House ballroom project if they can retake Congress and the presidency, arguing the ongoing construction project should be converted into something more egalitarian.

Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland has proposed renaming the space the Democracy Matters Ballroom and transforming it into a museum on American democracy, including efforts to thwart popular democracy such as the January 6 MAGA riot at the Capitol.

This is a space thats owned by the people and that serves the people, Raskin told NBC News. So, it should be used opposite of what Trump has in mind, which is for the American aristocracy and plutocracy to gather.

Saikat Chakrabarti, who is running to take over the seat of outgoing former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, told the outlet the ballroom should become a Smithsonian-affiliated museum focused on corruption and autocracy, including by highlighting the Trump-aligned corporations, tech companies, and government contractors who have donated to help build the ballroom.

Rep. Steve Cohen of Tennessee has suggested it would be a good idea to tear down the ballroom altogether rather that let a gigantic blob dedicated to Trump dominate the White House grounds.

open image in gallery If they can retake control of Washington and the presidency, Democrats have suggested turning Donald Trumps proposed White House ballroom into a museum on corruption ( Getty Images )

The president unilaterally, and by his own admission unnecessarily, has demolished large parts of the East Wing to build the ballroom.

Trump insists that presidents dating back centuries have wanted more space at the White House to hold grand state events. At present, large-scale functions often feature temporary tents on the White House campus.

For 150 years-plus theyve wanted to have a ballroom and it never happened because theyve never had a real estate person, Trump recently said.

open image in gallery The project to build a new ballroom has been supported with millions of corporate donations from Trump allies and government contractors ( Getty Images )

Critics have latched on the opulent ballroom effort as a sign of the presidents close ties with the corporate world and removed from the concerns of regular Americans, pointing to instances such as the president holding a lavish fundraiser for the project with corporate execs while thousands were out of work because of the government shutdown.

Americans largely do not support the effort to demolish the East Wing for the ballroom, polling shows.
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Jeffrey Epstein was texting with a Democratic lawmaker before she questioned President Donald Trumps former fixer, Michael Cohen, during a 2019 hearing and advised what questions she should ask, according to a report.

Stacey Plaskett, the U.S. Virgin Islands non-voting delegate, appeared to be messaging with the late disgraced financier in February 2019 while the hearing into Trump was ongoing and asked Epstein for guidance in one message, the Washington Post reports. Her office confirmed to the paper that she had received texts from Epstein.

The messages were included in the tranche of 20,000 documents released by the House Oversight Committee this week, though her name is redacted in the documents.

However, the timings and contents of the text messages align with questions she asked during the hearing, where Cohen was testifying before the oversight committee against Trump, according to analysis by the Post.

In the hearing, Cohen accused his former boss of financial fraud and directing hush-money payments to cover up his extramarital affairs, which Trump denied.

open image in gallery Stacey Plaskett, the U.S. Virgin Islands non-voting delegate, appeared to be messaging with the late disgraced financier in February 2019 while the hearing was ongoing and asked Epstein for guidance ( CBS News )

Epstein appeared to be watching the hearing and texting Plaskett in real time, according the Post.

Cohen brought up RONA - keeper of the secrets, Epstein texted, according to the documents, referring to Trumps former executive assistant Rhona Graff.

RONA?? the person believed to be Plaskett replied. Quick Im up next is that an acronym, the message said, suggesting that she was due to question Cohen next.

Thats his assistant, Epstein appeared to confirm.

When her turn came, Plaskett asked Cohen about Graff.

open image in gallery The timings and contents of the text messages align with questions she asked during the hearing, where Cohen was testifying before the oversight committee against Trump ( AFP via Getty Images )

Youve got to quickly give us as many names as you can so we can get to them, Plaskett said. Is Ms. Rhona, what is Ms. Rhonas?

Rhona Graff is the  Mr. Trumps executive assistant, Cohen replied. She was her office is directly next to his, and shes involved in a lot that went on.

While Epstein wasnt arrested until July 2019 on federal sex trafficking charges, at the time of the hearing he was a known convicted sex offender after pleading guilty to state charges in Florida in 2008 of soliciting prostitution from a minor.

Epstein had links to the U.S. Virgin Islands and some of its public figures. He donated money to politicians including Plaskett, according to a Business Insider expose from 2023, and his primary residence was on the island of Little Saint James.

The Independent has contacted Plasketts office for comment.

In a statement to the Post, Plasketts office said that she received texts during the hearing from staff, constituents and the public at large offering advice, support and in some cases partisan vitriol, including from Epstein.

As a former prosecutor she welcomes information that helps her get at the truth and took on the GOP that was trying to bury the truth, the statement said. The congresswoman has previously made clear her long record combating sexual assault and human trafficking, her disgust over Epsteins deviant behavior and her support for his victims.

Epstein also messaged Plaskett during the hearing to compliment her outfit and to ask whether or not she was chewing, according to the documents.

open image in gallery Plaskett was one of the House impeachment managers who presented the incitement case against Trump in his 2021 Senate trial ( Getty Images )

Great outfit, he texted Plaskett at 10:02 a.m. the day of Cohens testimony.

You look great, he added 20 minutes later.

Thanks! Plaskett appeared to reply.

Plaskett continued to text with Epstein throughout the day as he offered insights into Cohens answers.

Hes opened the door to questions re who are the other henchmen at trump org, Epstein texted Plaskett at 12:25 p.m.

Yup. Very aware and waiting my turn, she replied.

Plaskett was one of the House impeachment managers who presented the incitement case against Trump in his 2021 Senate trial.
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President Donald Trump has escalated his feud with MAGA firebrand Marjorie Taylor Greene, blasting her as a traitor for continuing to push for the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files.

The Georgia representative has refused to back down over the matter and accused the White House of making a huge miscalculation in brushing off the saga as a Democrat hoax.

Trump tore into Greene late Friday and continued his attacks on his former ally on Truth Social Saturday morning as the pair traded blows publicly on social media.

Marjorie Traitor Green is a disgrace to our GREAT REPUBLICAN PARTY! the president fumed.

He accused Greene of betraying the Republican party.

open image in gallery President Donald Trump has escalated his feud with MAGA firebrand Marjorie Taylor Greene, blasting her as a traitor ( Getty Images )

Lightweight Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Brown (Green grass turns Brown when it begins to ROT!), betrayed the entire Republican Party when she turned Left, performed poorly on the pathetic View, and became the RINO that we all know she always was, he said in an earlier post Saturday. Just another Fake politician, no different than Rand Paul Jr. (Thomas Massie), who got caught being a full fledged Republican In Name Only (RINO)! MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!!

Greene swiftly retaliated and said the presidents attacks makes you wonder what is in those files.

The congresswoman also claimed that she was concerned about her safety because of Trumps aggression against her.

I am now being contacted by private security firms with warnings for my safety as a hot bed of threats against me are being fueled and egged on by the most powerful man in the world, Greene said in a post on X. The man I supported and helped get elected. Aggressive rhetoric attacking me has historically led to death threats and multiple convictions of men who were radicalized by the same type rhetoric being directed at me right now. This time by the President of the United States.

The Independent has contacted the White House for comment.

Greene added that she believed in the American people more than I believe in any leader.

I never thought that fighting to release the Epstein files, defending women who were victims of rape, and fighting to expose the web of rich powerful elites would have caused this, but here we are, Greene said.

There needs to be a new way forward. The toxic political industrial complex thrives on ripping us all apart but never delivers anything good for the American people, whom I love.

On Friday, the president said he was no longer taking Greenes calls, which she claimed was a lie.

open image in gallery Greene had been one of Trumps most loyal supporters but has rebelled against him on Epstein, healthcare and affordability issues ( Andrew Harnik/Getty Images )

President Trump just attacked me and lied about me. I havent called him at all, but I did send these text messages today, she said, sharing screenshots of texts she apparently sent Trump about the Epstein files.

Apparently this is what sent him over the edge.

And of course hes coming after me hard to make an example to scare all the other Republicans before next weeks vote to release the Epstein files, she continued. Its astonishing really how hard hes fighting to stop the Epstein files from coming out that he actually goes to this level.

Once one of Trumps most loyal supporters, Greene has rebelled against Trump in recent months over his administrations emphasis on foreign trips and diplomacy, and not enough focus on persistent affordability issues. She has also clashed with him on his stance on H-1B visas, which she vehemently opposed.

In addition, the congresswoman has taken aim at fellow Republicans for allowing Affordable Care Act subsidies to expire, a major sticking point in the recent government shutdown negotiations.

Not everyone is convinced, however.

Former GOP Rep. Adam Kinzinger accused Greene of being the biggest con artist ever and said that her behavior suggested that she clearly wants to run for president.

Greene previously said the notion was baseless.
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President Donald Trump provided a bizarre update on his health Friday night, telling reporters on Air Force One a doctor praised him for an outstanding MRI, though he didnt know what experts were examining with the procedure.

I had an MRI, Trump said of a recent headline-grabbing visit to Walter Reed Medical Center. The doctor said it was the best result he has ever seen as a doctor...The result was outstanding.

When asked if doctors scanned the presidents brain, he replied, I have no idea what they analyzed, but whatever they analyzed, they analyzed it well and they said I had as good a result as theyve ever seen.

The comments were met with skepticism and mockery from Trump critics online.

We live in Idiocracy, progressive journalist Mehdi Hasan wrote on X, referencing the 2006 satirical comedy.

open image in gallery President Trump boasted on Friday he got an outstanding recent MRI result but also didnt know what it was scanning ( Getty Images )

In a separate post, Hasan said the presidents comments should inspire his cabinet members to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove him from office.

There is nothing Trump wont brag about, lamented reporter James Surowiecki in a post on X.

Others posted mock images of the presidents apparently outstanding MRI.

I was able to get an exclusive look at Trumps glorious MRI, podcaster Jim Stewartson wrote on X, sharing a photo of a head filled with Swiss cheese.

open image in gallery President Trumps health has been a regular topic of conversation in Washington due to his recent MRI and bruising regularly seen on his hand ( Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images )

The president has provided few details about his October MRI, which the White House physician described as part of a scheduled follow-up that included advanced imaging.

Jeffrey Kuhlman, the White House physician to former President Barack Obama, has questioned why the president was reportedly at the medical facility for hours.

Its about an eight-minute helicopter ride from the South Lawn to Walter Reed. So we know that he at least had four hours available to undergo medical care, Kuhlman told The Hill. Theres a disconnect there.

open image in gallery Trump, at 79, is the oldest person ever to be president ( AP )

The 79-year-old president, the oldest person to ever hold the office of the White House, has inspired frequent conversations about his age and fitness for office, though the attention has been considerably less pointed than the scrutiny of his predecessor Joe Bidens health.

Trump appeared to fall asleep at a recent meeting and he has been seen throughout his presidency with makeup on the back of his hand.

Trump has said he gets bruising from shaking numerous hands in the course of his job.

open image in gallery Symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) include swelling in the legs or ankles ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

A July 17 medical report noted the bruising and also diagnosed Trump with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a benign and common condition, prevalent in people over the age of 70.

Symptoms include swelling in the legs or ankles, a tight feeling in the calves, itchy or painful legs, pain when walking that stops when you rest, varicose veins, restless legs syndrome, painful leg cramps or muscle spasms, and leg ulcers that may be hard to treat.
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For the second time this year, Dan Edwin Wilson, a former January 6 defendant and member of the far-right group the Oath Keepers, received a pardon from President Donald Trump  this time to wipe two possession of an unregistered firearm charges.

Wilson, 50, was among the nearly 1,600 people who received a day-one pardon from the president for their role in the attack on the Capitol. He had been charged with conspiracy to impede or injure an officer at the Capitol.

But he also received separate charges of possession of an unregistered firearm in Kentucky  which were brought after law enforcement officials investigating his role in January 6 executed a search warrant on Wilsons home.

A judge overseeing the firearm possession charges case refused to extend Trumps January 6 pardon to cover those counts  leading Trump to make a second act of clemency Friday, first reported by Politico.

A White House official said in a statement that Trump chose to pardon Wilson again because the search of Mr. Wilsons home was due to the events of January 6.

open image in gallery Wilson, pictured at the Capitol on January 6, had planned the protest with other participants weeks before it occurred, according to messages obtained by prosecutors ( Department of Justice )

During the investigation into Wilsons activities on January 6, prosecutors said he communicated with others to organize a protest at the Capitol as a way to support Trump, who had spread lies that the 2020 election was rigged against him.

Prosecutors said through messages, Wilson identified himself as a member of the Oath Keepers and the Gray Ghost Partisan Rangers militias. He discussed bringing firearms to Washington, D.C., ahead of the protest and the possibility of a civil war.

In a December 2020 message, Wilson wrote: If Trump wins we have to get this government under control its been crossing my mind if we go to a Civil War do we try to take Washington DC first or do we try to take state capitals first.

Days later, Wilson wrote: "I am ready to lay my life on the line. It is time for good men to do bad things."

open image in gallery Trump issued pardons to supporters convicted over their roles in the January 6 riot as one of his first acts of his second term as president ( Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

In August 2024, Wilson pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charges related to his efforts on January 6. He was initially sentenced to five years in prison.

But Wilson was among the handful of January 6 defendants who were not permitted to leave prison after Trump granted the sweeping pardons on his first day in office due to the other firearm possession charges.

Although the administration initially agreed that Trumps day-one pardon did not cover Wilsons firearm charges, the Justice Department later changed its mind and argued it should since the firearm charges stemmed from an investigation related to the January 6 charges.

However, the judge disagreed, believing it extended Trumps pardon too far.

Trumps second pardon explicitly references the firearm-related charges case.

Attorneys for Wilson said in a statement to Politico, Dan Wilson is a good man. After more than 7 months of unjustified imprisonment, he is relieved to be home with his loved ones.

This act of mercy not only restores his freedom but also shines a light on the overreach that has divided this nation, the attorneys said.
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President Donald Trump gloated over news that Republican Rep. Thomas Massie has remarried after the death of his first wife last year  which proved a step too far for some of his MAGA loyalists.

The Kentucky representative announced on Nov. 3 that he remarried last month following the sudden death of his first wife of 31 years, Rhonda, in June 2024.

Trump, who has been married three times, took a swipe at Massie and his new bride, Carolyn Moffa, whom he met 10 years ago when she worked as a policy staffer for Senator Rand Paul.

Did Thomas Massie, sometimes referred to as Rand Paul Jr., because of the fact that he always votes against the Republican Party, get married already??? Boy, that was quick! Trump said in a post Friday on Truth Social.

No wonder the Polls have him at less than an 8% chance of winning the Election, Trump continued. Anyway, have a great life Thomas and (?). His wife will soon find out that shes stuck with a LOSER!

open image in gallery President Donald Trump gloated over news that Rep. Thomas Massie has remarried after the death of his first wife last year ( Getty Images )

The Independent has contacted Massies office for comment.

Trump was called out by some of his own MAGA faithful, including his former attorney Jenna Ellis, who was among those who falsely claimed the 2020 election was stolen from Trump.

Ellis accused Trump of political mud-slinging and publicly denounced his remarks about Massies new wife.

I know personally from my friendship of more a decade with Massie how incredibly difficult it was to find himself suddenly a widower and losing his best friend, Ellis said in a post on X.

Some things are still sacred and should still be beyond this kind of political mud-slinging, she said.

Right-wing commentator Evan Kilgore said Trumps post was disgusting.

Donald Trump just attacked Thomas Massie for getting re-married recently after his wife tragically passed away last year, Kilgore said on his X account. He then uses it as an attack on @RepThomasMassie to imply he is going to lose his next election.

This is actually disgusting, he continued. Donald Trump has lost me.

Conservative commentator Rebekah Worsham, whose X account the Patriotic Blonde has more than 100,000 followers, sarcastically mocked Trump for his comment about Massie.

open image in gallery Trumps swipe at Massie has upset even some of his most faithful supporters ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

How presidential, she said, quoting Trump.

Other accounts proclaiming to be America First also criticized the president.

This is so low, said another. Its bad enough that Trump attacks Thomas Massie (whos actually America First) but dont bring his wife into this. Disgusting.

This is very nasty by Trump, said another America First X user.

Massie has led the charge in defying the president by calling for the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files, joining forces with Democrats and other rebel GOP lawmakers, including Marjorie Taylor Greene.

The Georgia representative, once a Trump loyalist, has found herself on the receiving end of the presidents ire after she refused to back down in calling for the release of the Epstein files.

The pair are in the midst of a public feud, while Massie has been at loggerheads with Trump for years.
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The U.S. Postal Service is eyeing another overhaul after a $9 billion yearly loss.

New Postmaster General David Steiner said USPS must be more efficient and that it still has a "significant systemic annual revenue and cost imbalance."

"To correct our financial imbalances, we must explore new revenue opportunities and public policy changes to improve our business model, he added.

USPS, which lost $9.5 billion in the prior year, has lost more than $100 billion since 2007 despite significant restructuring and legislative reforms.

The U.S. Congress in 2022 provided the Postal Service with about $50 billion in financial relief over a decade.

open image in gallery Stamp prices are up 46% since early 2019, when they were 50 cents ( Joe Raedle/Getty Images )

USPS is seeking reforms, including changes to retiree pension benefit funding rules, diversification of pension assets, raising the statutory debt ceiling, and workers compensation administration reform.

USPS SEEKS TO RAISE PRICES

Separately, USPS on Friday proposed raising prices for various products, not including first-class mail. USPS proposed a 6.6% increase for Priority Mail, 5.1% for Priority Mail Express, 7.8% for USPS Ground Advantage and 6% for Parcel Select.

Amber McReynolds, who was re-elected chair of the Postal Board of Governors Friday, said long-standing and unnecessary restrictions are weighing down USPS's bottom line.

She said there is an urgent need for executive and legislative action" to ensure the postal service can be financially sustainable for the long-term.

In February, Republican President Donald Trump called USPS a "tremendous loser for this country," and said he was considering merging the Postal Service with the U.S. Commerce Department, a move Democrats said would violate federal law.

Under White House pressure, the previous USPS chief, Louis DeJoy, resigned in March. He was one of many officials forced out under Trump.

DeJoy led efforts to drastically restructure the money-losing USPS for nearly five years, including cutting forecast cumulative losses over a decade to $80 billion from $160 billion. Mail volumes fell 5% in the 12 months ending September 30 to the lowest level since 1967.

The price of first-class mail stamps rose this year to 78 cents from 73 cents but USPS in September opted not to raise prices in January. Stamp prices are up 46% since early 2019, when they were 50 cents.

The USPS, an agency with 635,000 employees, reduced its workforce by 10,000 workers this year through a voluntary retirement program.
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Ukrainian intelligence is warning that a Russian Lancet drone is prowling the sky, loitering above Kramatorsk, like a heron poised over a fish pond, ready to strike.

A laptop shows multiscreen images of medics racing through shredded forest, Russian soldiers in Ukrainian sights, bunkers being blown up  everyday terror.

This is the future of war  and the West isnt ready for what may be coming in an open conflict with Russia: mass casualties and a transformation of the battle beyond anything that Natos armies are training for.

The laptop feed is for Rebekah Maciorowski, an American volunteer paramedic who runs the medical operations, evacuation and training for an entire battalion of men and women on Ukraines eastern front, under its 3rd Brigade. In a conventional war, she would be a major. In this conflict? She has no idea what her rank is and cares even less.

But the revelations from this frontline soldier, one who has the rare claim to have shot down an incoming Russian drone attacking her patients, are chilling.

You have had encounters with Nato training teams. Youve talked to Nato when youve been back in Europe. Do you think that theyre ready for the next war with Russia? The Independent asks her.

No. No, Im honestly a little bit terrified, she replies  after more than 40 months at war here.

She goes on to explain: If you were to talk to Nato military officials, they would reassure you that everything is under control, theyre well equipped, theyre well prepared. But I dont think anyone can be prepared for a conflict like this. I dont think anyone can.

And whats concerning to me is, while theyre offering training [in Europe for Ukrainians], I think it would do them well to also take some information and training from the Ukrainians.

Maciorowski has undergone training with Nato forces in the last year and says what they taught was relevant to Afghanistan and Iraq  not Ukraine.

When I went to train with Nato, the factor of drones was not really filtered in. It was very much the tactics that were learnt in the previous war. And these tactics now do not apply because youre not making a linear assault.

Everything has changed with drones. And I dont think it was factored in, at least not in this training, she says in her secret medical evacuation headquarters.

open image in gallery US medic Maciorowski and her team tend to injured Ukrainian soldiers in the Donetsk region ( The Independent )

Her teams evacuate wounded soldiers using quad bikes because armoured ambulances are now death traps, while quads can race between forests and dugouts trying to avoid drones.

But her team takes heavy losses. Over the last week, a top medic, callsign Viking, was killed on a rescue mission east of Slaviansk. A few weeks before that, another driver was blown up by a drone.

I dont see other Europeans coping with this, she says.

Natos leaders and intelligence agencies agree that Europe, especially, is already involved in a hybrid war with Russia. This includes propaganda to undermine democracy, cyber attacks, sabotage and assassinations.

Lately, it has included probing attacks inside Poland and Estonia by Russian aircraft and continuous challenges at sea.

An outright war may never happen. It may also be inevitable.

Vladimir Putin has made it clear he wants to force the Baltic states back under Russian rule and has designs on all of eastern Europe in countries once dominated by Moscow.

Ukrainians and Georgians know that when he says such things, he invades.

If it came to a war, Russia has experience in modern combat that only Ukraine shares.

An officer operating in Pokrovsk, where Ukraine says Russia is concentrating 150,000 men on trying to break through Ukrainian lines, describes the fighting there as hell. It is in the heat of this inferno that a new approach is being forged.

We are changing the structure of the war on the go, says Oleksandr Yabchanka, commander of a drone unit in the Da Vinci Wolves, part of the 59th Brigade.

There is bad news for Ukraine and Europe. Russia is adapting just like us. It is a colossal threat and very underestimated in Europe.

A spokesperson for the British-led programme Operation Interflex said that 61,000 Ukrainian soldiers had been trained for putting them in the strongest possible position as they resist ongoing Russian attacks.

He said that Ukrainian military experts and drone operators had served as consultants to train soldiers going to war and that 91 per cent of Ukrainian soldiers who completed Natos basic training feel more confident of their survivability at the end of the training.

However, a recent study by Jack Watling at the Royal United Services Institute (Rusi) warns that Nato needs to catch up with understanding that war has changed.

The advent of small, deadly drones, often flown with first-person vision (FPV), frequently guided by fibre-optic cables, and capable of pinpoint accuracy far beyond what were considered front lines, has transformed conflict.

open image in gallery Oleksandr Yabchanka, commander of a drone unit in the Da Vinci Wolves, part of the 59th Brigade, says Russia is underestimated in Europe ( Sam Kiley/The Independent )

Nato doctrine focuses on what it calls combined arms manoeuvre. This means an emphasis on the concentration of aircraft, armour, infantry and artillery with the aim to surprise and overwhelm an enemy.

That doesnt work any more.

Dr Watling explains that pervasive networks and sensors have made the ability to achieve surprise difficult. Known as battlefield transparency, the modern surveillance of battlefields means that an unexpected attack is almost impossible.

On top of that, the ubiquity of precision weapons makes concentrated forces vulnerable to rapid attrition.

Armoured vehicles, engineering equipment, electronics warfare kit  it can all be spotted and picked off with ease, and over long distances.

This means that the front lines are wide, deep, shattered and almost empty of infantry.

Natos method is to take on mass attacks by the near peer forces of Russia. But Russias tactics no longer concentrate on mass  the weight of numbers in men and arms used against Ukraine three years ago.

Now, Ukrainian forces are being attacked with long-range glide bombs. Russian drones hunt out Kyivs UAV teams in their bunkers and force them away from their forward lines. And above all, the lines of logistics are pounded with terrifying accuracy.

open image in gallery Russian soldiers hide in dugouts, trying to avoid drones, near Zaporizhzhia, southern Ukraine ( The Independent )

As a result, small groups of two or four Russians covertly sneak into locations on the front lines to try to hold bunkers and dugouts while Ukrainian drones patrol overhead.

The soldiers use blankets designed to muffle their thermal images, sometimes held above them on poles, to get into locations where they may be embedded for weeks or months.

Ukrainian troops do the same. And now that their lines of communication have been cut, they rely entirely on supplies of food and ammunition, as well as medical supplies from drones in the air or on the ground.

In Afghanistan, 99.2 per cent of British army casualties who were evacuated to the main Helmand hospital at Camp Bastion survived  mostly because they were taken there from the front lines within the first golden hour after injury.

In any war with Russia, it could be days or weeks before a severely wounded Nato soldier could be evacuated. And the numbers injured in a single incident or a drone blast are likely to be high.

The wounds, the injuries, are catastrophic, explains Maciorowski. And theyre multiplying because the radius of impact for a drone that drops a grenade or explosive device is massive.

So you can have an entire group thats taken out, all of them injured in one drop. Were not seeing that hand-to-hand combat so much now.

Now were looking at prolonged field care; guys who are unable to evacuate and giving medical advice over a radio, making sure that when guys come to the unit, every soldier is trained like a medic because we dont have enough medics, and theres no guarantee that they can get to the wounded soldier in time.

So every soldier needs to be a highly trained medic to treat himself and others around him.

open image in gallery Medics of Da Vinci Wolves Battalion treat Ukrainian soldiers injured during fighting near Pokrovsk in August ( AP )

Natos regular armed forces are rarely, if ever, trained how to treat themselves for long periods with antibiotics and intravenous drips.

And, above all, they are unprepared for the potential mass casualties that Nato forces would face in a conflict with Russia.

We almost cant comprehend the scale of those losses, says Ed Arnold, a former British Army officer who is now with Rusi.

Gangrene among Ukrainian soldiers is commonplace because they are stuck on the front lines for so long. Britains biggest mobile field hospital has a capacity of only 80 general beds and 10 for intensive care.

In a Ukraine-type war where the UK, and Nato, can expect hundreds of casualties every day, the capacity to cope is just not there.

We should have Ukrainians training [British officers] at Sandhurst (Royal Military Academy) at the moment, adds Arnold.

There should be a resident Ukrainian platoon, which regularly rotates, giving us the actual download on whats going on.
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Over the years, I have testified in Washington about the atrocities unfolding in Nigeria, including in my own Ondo state. On a personal level, I have felt compelled to open my home in order to help those in need, giving them shelter and protection while their government does nothing.

I remember saying goodbye to 14-year-old Hauwa as she left the safety of my compound as one of the toughest moments of my life. Her crime was attempting to worship peacefully at church, but still, I wondered if I would see her again and if she would even make it home safely.

When President Trump called for an end to the targeting of Christians by extremists earlier this week, he ignited a flurry of concern in Nigeria, in part driven by the governments need to push back and try to cover up the situation.

The president is right to identify my country as one in urgent need of firm action to eliminate the insecurity which has plagued our people for decades and that still impedes our development.

Millions continue to suffer due to federal negligence and an unwillingness to request military assistance from allies, including the United States, to eliminate the radical Islamist threat primarily in our northern region.

The targeting of innocent Christian worshippers by radical groups is unacceptable and requires coordinated, targeted military intervention to get a grip on the issue. Such strikes must be supported if undertaken together with Nigerian security forces.

Action over rhetoric would be welcomed by millions of Nigerians, but boots on the ground cannot ever violate Nigerian sovereignty or comprise a guns-a-blazing approach.

While insecurity is mostly indiscriminate, certain communities, including churches in the north, continue to be targeted by Boko Haram with genocidal intent. I have seen this with my own eyes.

Churches, homes, farmland, and the futures of millions of Nigerians have, for more than a decade, been turned into embers. A spotlight on the issue from Washington will hopefully serve to ensure our fortunes are reversed, finally pushing the government into action.

Nigerian governments, past and present, have long shied away from seeking support, perhaps embarrassed by their own failings and, in some instances, military complicity. They have tried new tactics, including empowering domestic security forces and military strikes, but these have failed.

Whilst the world paid close attention just over a decade ago to Boko Harams chilling abduction of 276 schoolgirls in the town of Chibok (almost 100 are still missing), other atrocities have gone largely ignored.

More than 1,600 other schoolchildren have been kidnapped since, and by UN estimates, more than 7.8 million people, 80 per cent of whom are women and children, have been displaced in the past 15 years since Boko Haram began its campaign of terror.

As a result, investor confidence has reduced, playing a major role in Nigerias economic stagnation. More than half of our population (129 million) live in poverty, and over 30 per cent are unemployed. Opportunities for our young people are scarce.

Intervention carries significant risks and could exacerbate an already tense environment, given that previous attempts have not resolved the underlying causes. But millions continue to suffer, with calls for help going ignored.

Guns and bullets alone cannot solve all of Nigerias security challenges. The government must adopt a multi-pronged strategy, sharing crucial military intelligence with our neighbours and allies, including Washington, whilst also enhancing domestic coordination.

Enhancing investment in core public services, including education throughout the country, empowering our youth and turning them away from terror must be a non-negotiable position. Certainly it is one I hold sacrosanct.

Nigeria continues to be an enigma. We are a nation with a median age of just 18, with unmatched entrepreneurial potential and talent. And yet Nigerians continue to be held back by self-serving politicians, including those who are content with the status quo, meaning that insecurity and corruption run rampant.

More than half of Nigerians remain trapped in a poverty cycle, with millions unsure whether their journey to school or work will be safe. For them, survival is often a luxury.

Terror groups seek to weaponise discontent and undermine democracy. Indeed, the very name Boko Haram means Western education is forbidden. The group has pledged solidarity with al-Qaeda and has threatened not just Nigerians but also the United States. It is not alone.

The Islamic State West Africa Province also remains entrenched and seemingly immovable, operating under a simple but effective playbook that capitalises on widespread poverty and underdevelopment, recruiting young people to their cause for only a few dollars. Abductions, rape, torture and other crimes against humanity have ensued relatively unchallenged for more than a decade.

President Trump is right to shine a light on our worsening security situation. If Nigeria were to coordinate with allies such as the US, it could finally remove one of the main obstacles to our economic and social development.

Ultimately, however, it will be the job of a Nigerian administration to ensure such success can be built on. Like many other Nigerians, I am sadly not convinced the current government is up to the job.

Prince Adewole Adebayo, a lawyer and leader of Nigerias Social Democratic Party, is running for president in the 2027 election
What I spend on Christmas: I would imagine that my total will be about 2,000 and the majority of my budget will be on my own kids
Ripple XRP. Photo by BeInCrypto

Ripples XRP token may be heading for an unexpected tailwind. Three major jurisdictions are preparing regulatory and adoption changes. These changes could transform how institutions use the digital asset in 2026.

In an exclusive interview with BeInCrypto, Bitget Wallet CMO Jamie Elkaleh said Japan is likely to deliver the biggest near-term impact for XRP adoption.

Japan already features live remittance corridors using XRP as a bridge asset. Most notably, SBI Remit operates corridors where transfers from Japan settle into Southeast Asian bank accounts, he said. Because these corridors are already live rather than experimental, the path from adoption to visible usage is shorter.

The UAE Emerges as a High-Potential Market

However, Elkaleh added that the UAE is quickly emerging as another high-potential market. The countrys virtual asset regime, through the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) and the UAE Central Bank, has created an environment tailor-made for crypto payment infrastructure. A regulatory regime tailored to virtual assets and a growing presence of Ripple Labs in the region make it a strong candidate for next-wave adoption, he noted.

Meanwhile, Europe is setting the stage for long-term scalability through its Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework. Although the regulation is now in effect, regulators are still finalising several secondary rules. Transition periods extending into 2026 mean the framework is still maturing. But Elkaleh cautioned that adoption there could take longer: Institutions tend to move cautiously and the rails are still consolidating.

Real-World XRP Usage Drives Adoption

Ripples advantage, Elkaleh said, is that Japan has already moved beyond pilot projects. The remittance operations using XRP by SBI Remit are live and accessible, demonstrating that XRP is being used in real operational settings, he explained. This means scaling up is now a matter of volume, not validation.

The UAE and wider MENA region are nearing a tipping point. Regulatory frameworks are aligning. VARA licensing, Ripples DFSA license in Dubai, and partnerships in Bahrain reduce compliance and legal hurdles for formal settlements. While these flows dont yet match Japans scale, the ecosystem is poised for expansion.

In light of this, Elkaleh said that in Europe, progress will likely be slower. "MiCA and related regulatory clarity are preparing banks and remittance firms, but institutions are likely to deploy large-scale XRP-based settlement further out, he said.

Regulatory Clarity Could Trigger Market Moves in Stages

Looking ahead, Elkaleh believes that regulatory clarity in 2026 could translate into market price action for XRP, and could unfold in specific stages throughout the year. "For regions with existing corridors and active projects, new flows could materialize within months after regulatory green-lights. In other regions, particularly Europe, the conversion from clarity to scale might take 12 to 24 months. Institutions will need to align treasury policies, integrate systems, and begin live XRP settlement," he said.
Grandson looks to clean Oscar Wildes dirty laundry and reveals why he was wrong about the biopic starring Stephen Fry

After Oscar by Merlin Holland is less a look back on the playwrights colourful life and more of a reckoning with his posthumous reputation

Stephen Fry in the title role of the 1997 film 'Wilde'

Henrietta McKervey Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 06:30

Merlin Holland, Oscar Wildes only grandson, opens this new biography by asking a necessary question: what right does he have to poke around in other peoples dirty linen?
The Domain of the Dinosaurs exhibition opens at the Glucksman Gallery in University College Cork (UCC). Photo: Clare Keogh

The Domain of the Dinosaurs exhibition opens at the Glucksman Gallery in University College Cork (UCC). Photo: Picture Clare Keogh

Jurassic World fans of all ages are set to revel in the largest dinosaur and fossil exhibit ever staged in Ireland.

The 'Domain of the Dinosaurs' exhibition opens at the Glucksman Gallery in University College Cork (UCC) on Saturday.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin will formally open the exhibition whose centrepiece will be skeleton casts of Megalosaurus and Scelidosaurus, the only known dinosaurs from the island of Ireland.

Bones from both dinosaurs were discovered in the 1980s by the late Roger Byrne, a schoolteacher and fossil collector, on a beach in Antrim.

Both bones were found by Mr Byrne while he was walking along the beach near The Gobbins, on the east coast of Islandmagee in Antrim.

The bones were found loose among the shingle and boulders on the beach.

Mr Byrne found the Scelidosaurus bone in January 1980 and the theropod bone in February 1981, and donated both bones to the National Museum of Northern Ireland.

'Domain of the Dinosaurs' features almost 300 real fossil specimens and incorporates five newly commissioned artworks from contemporary Irish artists that provide a creative response to key Irish fossils and current research on dinosaurs by palaeontologists at UCC.

The exhibition features a number of zones including feoil, coillte and farraige.

Feoil or the carnivore zone features a full-sized 3D skeletal cast of the theropod dinosaur Megalosaurus.

This large, eight metre long dinosaur was an apex predator with adaptations for ambush-style attack.

Coillte or the herbivore zone shows full-sized 3D skeletal casts of two herbivorous dinosaurs - the armored dinosaur Scelidosaurus, plus the large bulky Iguanodon.

The Domain of the Dinosaurs exhibition opens at the Glucksman Gallery in University College Cork (UCC). Photo: Clare Keogh

These dinosaurs are surrounded by 45 fossil specimens of other ancient herbivores, their food plants and details of the world in which they existed.

Farraige or the marine zone centres around two life-size 3D skeletal casts of the predatory marine reptiles Ichythyosaurus and Plesiosaurus.

Each of these are around three metres long and they are suspended dramatically in mid-air to replicate their swimming posture.

UCC President Prof John Halloran said it is a fascinating display.

"This exciting exhibition brings together cutting-edge science, research and creative arts, breaking new ground in the intersection between science and the creative arts and reshaping the communication of the past through engagement and creative arts," Professor Halloran said.

Prof Maria McNamara said the exhibit is particularly fascinating in an Irish context.

"Fossils are a hugely important link to our ancient past. They provide direct evidence for how life on planet Earth has adapted to shifts in climate and environmental conditions over geological time," she said.

Prof Fiona Kearney, Director of the Glucksman Gallery, urged people to avail of the unique exhibition.

"It is thrilling to see these ancient creatures in the gallery, presented alongside the creative perspectives provided by contemporary artists," she said.

"We cannot wait to welcome visitors to explore art and science in the Glucksman."

The exhibit will fully open to the public from November 29 and will run until April 12.

Rocks from the age of the dinosaurs  the Mesozoic  are extremely rare and almost all of the Irish Mesozoic rocks occur in Northern Ireland and are covered by basalt  the rock that forms the Giant's Causeway.

One of Irelands most famous fossil sites is the Valentia Tetrapod Trackway, on Valentia Island in Kerry.
Businessman was deceived over an eight-year period

Businessman Denis OBrien, who was defrauded out of around 135,000 by DJ Carey, has said he has no malice towards him at all and hopes he gets the help he needs.
They feared their little boy was going to die  Child (8) waits nearly two hours for ambulance after suffering horrific injury
Keep small stash of cash at home for use in case of power outages or cyber attacks, households to be advised

Recommendations, to be delivered over the winter months by the Department of Defence, will be part of guidelines on how to be resilient during an emergency.

ECB unofficial warning to keep 600 cash in your house

John Burns Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 06:30

The Government is to advise households to keep a small amount of cash permanently in their homes in case of emergencies.
Many said it was impossible  home stretch for around-Ireland solo swimmer after gruelling five-month challenge

Waterford adventurer and former lifeguard Daragh Morgan did the epic swim in aid of Simon and the RNLI and has just nine nautical miles left to complete

The end of the epic journey is in sight for Daragh Morgan

Lorna Siggins Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 06:30

Surface temperatures have dropped, the swell has been relentless, but sea swimmer Daragh Morgan is within sight of finishing his solo circumnavigation of the island of Ireland after five long months.
Objector group launches crowdfund for High Court case against 1.3bn sewage infrastructure extending off Dublin coast

It comes as legislation is set to be brought to Cabinet that could force such project objections to incur six-figure legal costs

The pipeline will stretch from Abbotstown in west Dublin to 2km off the coast of Portmarnock and 900m from Irelands Eye. Image: Uisce Eireann

Keith Kelly, Conal Thomas and Wayne O'Connor Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 17:53

A group objecting to a recently approved 1.3 billion sewage project that will extend off Dublin's coast has launched an appeal to raise funds for High Court action against the State.
Ordinary workers feel left behind after pay hikes for semi-state CEOs, incoming Siptu chief says

Industrial relations landscape could be volatile over next few years, John King says

John King will take over as Siptu general secretary in March

Anne-Marie Walsh Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 06:00

Workers feel left behind after the Government boosted upper pay limits for the top semi-state earners, according to the incoming leader of the countrys largest trade union.
The Governments more concerned about Ryanairs profits than the planets fate: Ciaran Cuffe on climate backlash in Trump era

The co-chair of the European Greens wants the environment to become a serious issue for world leaders  but he probably wont be asking first cousin, and US secretary of health, RFK for help...

'I think when it comes to Trump, we've got to look beyond Trump' - Co-chair European Green Party, Ciaran Cuffe

Kim Bielenberg Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 06:30

When Ciaran Cuffe topped the poll in Dublin in a European election in 2019, Ireland was on the crest of a green wave. Concern about the calamitous effects of climate change was uppermost in peoples minds. It seemed to be the global cause du jour.
Jennifer Zamparellis new podcast is about speaking to ordinary people doing extraordinary things. And some of those things just happen to include swinging.

The broadcaster has launched a new podcast with the Irish Independent about sex and relationships, Just Between Us, and she believes its something Irish people want more discussion about.
Key Points

United Parcel Service stock has fallen a huge 50% from its 2022 highs.

Traditional valuation metrics show that UPS' valuation is attractive.

Management's actions are slowly starting to show some progress.

10 stocks we like better than United Parcel Service 

United Parcel Service (NYSE: UPS) has a lofty 6.8% dividend yield, which might be enticing to income investors. But a dividend payout ratio over 100%, coupled with the business reset taking shape, pull the stock out of the dividend camp and put it firmly into the turnaround arena. From that vantage point, UPS could be very attractive. Here are three reasons why.

1. United Parcel Service is deeply unloved

Emotions on Wall Street generally swing from overly enthusiastic to overly pessimistic. During the coronavirus pandemic's height, when online shopping was the only option for many consumers, demand for shipping services spiked. Investors bid up the price of UPS as if demand would never return to normal. When demand did, in fact, return to normal, shares plummeted. They are now down over 50% from the peak reached in early 2022.

It is worth digging in when Mr. Market, the fictional character created by famed value investor Benjamin Graham, gets extremely pessimistic. UPS has created the infrastructure to move packages around quickly and cost-effectively. What it achieves is logistically impressive and would be very hard to replicate or replace. Even Amazon, which has built out its own delivery services, still uses UPS. The company may have become a little bloated, but package delivery is a necessity, and UPS isn't likely to go away any time soon.

In other words, there's value in the business, even if the market is discounting that value right now.

Image source: Getty Images.

2. UPS' stock looks cheap

Some numbers will help on the valuation front. UPS' price-to-sales ratio is currently around 0.9x, compared to a five-year average of 1.4x. The stock's price-to-earnings ratio is just under 15x, compared to a longer-term average of roughly 18x. And the price-to-book value ratio is 5.1x, compared to a five-year average of 8.5x.

All three of these traditional valuation tools hint at an attractive price. The dividend yield, meanwhile, is near the high end of the stock's historical yield range. That also hints at a value price, though, as noted above, the high dividend payout ratio suggests that the dividend could be at risk as the company works to reset its business. To reiterate, this is a turnaround story more than an income story. If the dividend survives, it's icing on the cake.
Sarah Carey: There is a rational debate to be had on a united Ireland, if we can rise above emotive tribalism

Our instinct is often to suspect the Other, and Im worried were facing a juggernaut of toxic nationalism when it comes to border-poll discussions

Sam McBride and Fintan O'Toole have written a book exploring both sides of the united-Ireland debate. Photo: Conor Mulhern

Sarah Carey Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 06:30

Humans are primitive souls. Good and evil, love and rage, fear and hope reside in all of us. We are capable of great heroism, kindness and self-sacrifice. Or, we can chop our neighbours head off because we belong to one tribe, and they do not.
I wanted to do my bit  Clare man raises 12k with 100km walk for Galway boy who suffered bleed on brain

Cillian OBrien suffered a devastating brain bleed before taking part in a school chess tournament in FebruaryDonall OConnor, from Clare and now living in Lille in France, completed the 20-hour walk to raise vital funds for the family to adapt their home

Donall O'Connor completed a 100km walk from Lille, France to Kortrijk to raise funds for Cillian O'Brien's family.

Joseph Murray Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 16:00

A Clare man who raised over 12,000 by walking 100km for a Galway teen who suffered a lifechanging brain bleed has been moved by the floods of donations he has received in the wake of his fundraiser.
The zero-alcohol spot, located at the Marina Market, focuses on taste, creativity, and Instagram-worthy drinks

The men behind Corks first-ever zero-alcohol bar say their focus is firmly on flavour, as they try to encourage hearts and minds away from traditional alcoholic cocktails with their well-thought-out menu.

Saor officially launches today at the Marina Market, providing what they call an elevated drinking experience at the family-friendly venue, where the sale of alcohol is prohibited. Free tastings and talks will also take place, as the bar works to challenge what they describe as an alcohol-first attitude when it comes to cocktails.
Dublin's centenarians celebrated for the second time this year at the Mansion House

There was craic aplenty at the Lord Mayors celebration of Dublins centenarians, or people that are at least 100 years old, which took place at the Mansion House on Thursday.

These Dubliners lived through World War Two, saw the capitals tram network disappear and then return in the 21st century, and made it through as the country was rocked multiple times by economic turmoil.

But the mood was jovial as 11 Dublin centenarians celebrated with family and friends at the Mansion House on Dawson Street in the heart of the city.

And the guests, served afternoon tea while a pianist played in the background, couldnt have been more elated, receiving a framed scroll from Lord Mayor Ray McAdam and signing Dublins Centenarians Ledger.

100-year-old Mary McGrath was in flying form, and with her daughter beside her, she regaled attendees with stories from a long life spent in the capital.

Pictured is Mary McGrath (100) from Killester, Dublin 7.

"Ive seen a lot of changes in Dublin, she said, and though she hails from Henrietta Street, shes a big fan of the spanking new Docklands area.

"All the buildings down the quay are marvellous. There was nothing like that when we were young, she said.

When asked what has kept her going for so many years, she said she loves a tipple. "Im a brandy drinker. Me and Hennessy were great pals.

It kept me alive, and Im still doing a little dance, she smiled.

Cormac OBroin was the lone man of the 11 centenarians in attendance, but was surrounded by what he called a sampling of his daughters.

Mr OBroin, who says hes 100 and three-quarters, was another of the group that had spent his whole life in the capital.

Its a great city to roam around. It has a huge amount of interesting buildings, bridges, roads, streets, he said.

What kept him in Dublin? His 13 children, one of his daughters said with a glint in her eye.

You didnt move around in those days. You came and you got a house and you stayed there and that was the end of it, he said.

And what advice would he have for a young person now? Stay in Dublin, if you can get a house, he said. "But thats the big problem. When I got a house, it was very easy to get one.

I drove until I was 94. But I decided to give it up, I didnt want to kill anybody.

Pauline Kearns, originally from Longford, said she loved the change when she moved from the countryside to the bustling capital many decades ago.

"Everything seems so convenient. Everybody is so close, you know, compared to the country where the nearest one might be a couple of hundred yards away.

The 101-year-old former teacher still remembers the beginning of World War 2, having been a young adult at the time.

"When we were coming home from mass on a Sunday morning in early September 1939, we heard that Hitler had invaded Poland and war had broken out, she said.

"It was threatening for a long time, and Hitler went in and he took over Austria. The Maginot Line was the French defence, and it was supposed to be sort of impenetrable and same with the Seigfried Line.

"Sure [Germany] walked in and walked across. And Hitler took over everything.

Pictured with Lord Mayor of Dublin Cllr Ray McAdam is Pauline Kearns (101), Leopardstown

Mr McAdam said it was a great privilege to host the centenarians. I was up early this morning, he said with a smile.

Its also just to acknowledge them, to acknowledge their contribution to our city and thats what today is all about.

In a speech to the room, he said: This is your afternoon, because this has been your century, and it is your city.

"Most of you were born in 1925  You grew up in a young state finding its feet, and you saw a city grow in confidence and scale. You knew tough times, the rations in The Emergency, the heartbreak of emigration, the days when there was more month than money.

"And you knew joyful moments too, the show bands, the dance halls. I think theres a few people here that were dancing here in the Mansion House back in the 50s and 60s.

"Summers in Dollymount, the roar of Croke Park carried in the wind, and the first televisions glowing in front windows as neighbours gathered to watch.

The tradition of inviting centenarians to the Mansion House is one that dates back to the 1990s, and after a several-year hiatus, it was re-introduced by Mr McAdams predecessor, Emma Blaine in June this year.

Its back just five months later due to high demand, said Mr McAdam. With all the requests that we received I decided to host another event here today, and Im delighted so many people have joined.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
A nephew of Gerard The Monk Hutch has had his conviction for being intoxicated in public and acting extremely aggressive with gardai discharged under the probation act on appeal.

The District Court Appeals Court heard that Nathan Hutch (32) said obscenities to gardai while intoxicated in Dublin City Centre.

Hutch, with an address at Buckingham Street Upper, Dublin 1 had pleaded guilty in the District Court to intoxication in a public place contrary to section 4 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994.

He also faced a charge of threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour in a public place contrary to section 6 of the same act.

Nathan Hutch was convicted and sentenced to two months consecutive to another 18-month sentence he received for a separate matter. He later lodged an appeal against the severity of his sentence.

Sergeant Lee Kelly told the District Court Appeals Court that at 10.10am on May 9 last, gardai responded to an incident near Talbot Street in Dublin city centre.

He said that they observed a man running away from gardai and pursued him. Sgt Kelly said that the man told them he had taken cocaine and sleeping tablets.

Sgt Kelly said that Hutch was extremely aggressive and said obscenities to gardai.

He said that Hutch has 104 previous convictions, with the majority of those for road traffic matters. He said that Hutch is currently serving a sentence for another matter.

Defence solicitor for Hutch, Andrew Molony, said that his client has excellent family support.

He said Hutch is a young man who has suffered every challenge in life including the heinous murder of his brother in 2018.

Mr Molony said that his client had been diagnosed with severe trauma and anxiety. He said he has made huge efforts to deal with this, despite having a few blips, and that he has undertaken a treatment program to deal with his issues.

Mr Molony said that continued treatment is the only way for Hutch to make progress and asked the judge to consider applying a probation bond in this case, so that his client can engage with counselling for trauma and addiction.

Judge Deirdre Browne decided to discharge Hutch under Section 1(1)(ii) of the Probation of Offenders Act, 1907 under the conditions that he must keep the peace and be of good behaviour for the period of three years.

She ordered that he must enter the supervision of the probation services for 12 months after his release from custody and abide by any instructions given by them.

Judge Browne said that if there is any breach, Hutch must turn up for conviction and sentence.

Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme
The Sheep Improvement Scheme has been designed to support farmers to undertake actions that improve animal welfare in the sheep sector

More than 500 farmers in Wicklow are to share in more than 1 million under payments made as part of the 2025 National Sheep Welfare Scheme.

Agriculture Minister Martin Heydon believes the changes will provide a positive boost for farmers.

When combined with the 12 per ewe available under the CAP Strategic Plan Sheep Improvement Scheme, this means sheep farmers in both schemes will receive up to 23.50 per ewe, an increase of 17.5pc per ewe on last years combined payment.

My department will continue to process, as a matter of urgency, all remaining cases for payment as they meet scheme criteria, but I would urge applicants in the scheme who have received correspondence from my Department, to respond as quickly as possible to ensure their payment can be processed.

Wicklow TD Edward Timmins believes the allocation for farmers is a good outcome.

These payments are crucial to the sheep sector and farm families in Wicklow, and Im pleased that the Minister for Agriculture, Martin Heydon fought for and secured a further 22 million for a similar scheme in 2026. As a result of the oversubscription in the scheme, it was necessary to adjust the payment rate to 11.50 per ewe which is still a 44pc increase from the 8 per ewe paid under the scheme in 2024.

In total, 16.44 million in payments will be paid to 13,177 farmers around the country. This represents just over 90% of farmers who chose the completion date of October 17, 2025, for their chosen actions.

A further pay run will occur in mid-December 2025 for those farmers who chose the later completion date of November 28, 2025, for their actions.

However, sheep farmers are reportedly "furious" at the "failure to honour the commitment" to pay 13/ewe for completing all the actions of the scheme.

Irish Farmers' Association (IFA) sheep chair Adrian Gallagher said: "If there is a will from the minister and his government colleagues to resolve this issue, then there is a way.

Farmers were required to complete two actions from category A, which were mandatory actions, and one action from category B, which were optional or voluntary actions.

The completion of all three actions will result in a payment of 11.50/ewe.

"Its up to the minister to find the 2.4 million for the sheep scheme, Mr Gallagher said.

Sheep farmers entered a contract with the minister in good faith when applying to the scheme and carrying out the actions.

"These are all costed actions based on income foregone, cost incurred.

"This was on the clear understanding they would receive 13/ewe for investing in these measures on their farms." Gallagher highlighted that the sheep sector is in "serious decline" in recent years.

"There will be over 800,000 fewer lambs processed this year compared to 2023, with farmers no longer prepared to keep working for nothing," he said.

Mr Gallagher has urged TDs and government ministers to "stand up for the sector" and ensure the funding is provided to pay sheep farmers the full 13/ewe.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
A Wicklow-based environmental group is calling on locals to keep their eyes peeled for two of Irelands rarest native trees, as it seeks to harvest their seeds.

ReWild Wicklow, the organisation spearheading the initiative, was formed in 2021 and their aim is to monitor, protect, enhance and increase native habitats in Wicklow so that it can support a vast biodiverse, balanced ecosystem of historical flora and fauna.

The group has established a community native tree nursery in Newtownmountkennedy to collect seed mainly from within the national park and other National Park and Wildlife Service (NPWS) reserves to preserve the genetic diversity of local trees.

Their nursery is currently growing common native trees such as oak, birch, alder, hazel, hawthorn and rowan. They also have a small amount of the rare tree species aspen and Irish whitebeam and are asking the public to report any locations these trees are growing in their natural state in the county.

Weve been working on two big grant projects this year, said chairperson Danny Alvey. The first was a grant of 30,000 received from the Wicklow County Council Community Climate Action Fund towards our tree nursery. Weve used it to help us upgrade the site with proper infrastructure including a polytunnel, irrigation and electricity, as well as expanding out the number of raised beds and filling them up with thousands of more saplings.

"The nursery is a special project in conjunction with the NPWS rangers of Wicklow Mountains National Park aimed at collecting seed from veteran trees in and around the mountains to grow and plant back into the park, and in doing so protecting the unique genetics of our native Wicklow trees.

"Were particularly interested in finding more mature aspen and Irish whitebeam trees which might be growing around the county. We have a monthly volunteer day here on the first Saturday of each month and there's always a great variety of interesting tasks for new volunteers to help us with.

According to the Tree Council of Ireland, whitebeam trees are quite small and have their leaves have a pale under surface, while their cream flowers ripen to red berries. The hard pale wood was traditionally used for small furniture such as the legs of stools.

There are several whitebeam species native to Ireland that may be found in wild woods or cliffs where they have escaped grazing. It can also be found in hedges.

If you are looking for aspen trees, you may need to listen. Wexford naturalist Jim Hurley describes them as having the most wind-sensitive leaves of any of our wild plants.

The poplar trees leaves have pale green blades that are roundish and have toothed margins, with long, flat stalks. These stalks mean the leaf blades flutter in the slightest breeze.

In order to help aspen, Irish whitebeam, and other native trees thrive in Wicklow, ReWild Wicklow has also been working on a native woodland expansion and protection initiative supported through a 20,000 grant from the Heritage Council.

Danny added:  Throughout the summer weve been building small and medium size deer enclosures to protect small plots across sites in Wicklow such as in the valleys of Glencree and Glenmacnass and down at the East Coast Nature Reserve near Newcastle.

"During the winter we will return to these enclosures and plant them up with between 100 and 1,000 native tree saplings depending on the plot of land. Weve found planting in this way is much more cost-effective and successful than just individually planting each tree in a tube or wire cage.

"Weve also purchased 16 deer high seats with this grant to help local hunters manage our sika deer population next to native woodland sites.

"Right now the deer numbers are way too high and they destroy young native trees and any chance of natural regeneration. Well be out planting trees all winter long and anyone is welcome to join us.

The public can report sightings of aspen or Irish whitebeam, or join the volunteer list, via rewildwicklow.ie.
CARRIE Crowley cried at one point during this conversation. Not surprisingly, given that she was talking about the relatively recent death of a parent. But even more revealing than public tears from this most private of people - it's taken me six years to convince her to give a 'personal life' interview - was the fact that, even as Carrie cried, there were traces of a smile in her eyes.

Likewise, the more Crowley spoke about the actual circumstances of her father's death, the more she assumed the other-worldly glow of a woman reliving one of the most spiritual experiences of her life - which, indeed, that death turned out to be. Carrie's sense of elation was no less palpable as she reflected upon her mother's death. So much so that one soon realises if you want to travel to the soul of Carrie Crowley you simply sit back and let her talk about her folks.

Sure, Carrie is "passionate" about her role in This Ebony Bird, the play she's currently rehearsing, and says "it has the potential to be stunning" and "hopes audiences give it a chance", but her real story begins and will probably end as a song of praise to her parents.

Carrie Crowley was born 40 years ago, raised in Waterford, has one older sister, Brid, and their mother and father Nodlaig and Con were, respectively, "a teacher and a guard". Nodlaig Crowley had "her first bout of breast cancer" when Carrie was in fifth year and appearing in a school production of Oliver! but her parents didn't even want to explain "what cancer was" at first.

"Yet I do remember the day she found out about it," says Carrie, as we sit in the Shelbourne Hotel. "I came home from school and there was a smell of smoke in the house, which was unusual, because nobody smoked cigarettes. But my mother was sitting at the kitchen table and had chain-smoked a packet of 10. Yet all she said was that she had to go to hospital and have 'surgery'.

"My mother didn't even mention cancer, because she andmy father were so aware whatdoing Oliver! meant to me. I wasn't told about it until the dayafter the show ended. They were wonderful people."

Carrie "got a great buzz from Oliver! but acting "wasn't a practical option", so she subsequently became a teacher and, when she eventually decided to quit that job, her folks accepted the decision.

"Myself and my mother weresitting at that same kitchentable and I said: 'I'm not going back.' And though she argued the toss with me, once she knew I had my reasons for doing something, and wasn't just being flighty, she was 100 per cent supportive," claims Crowley.

"Afterwards someone said: 'How could you let your daughter work in a pizzeria?' - that's what I did for six months - and she said: 'Everything we do in life informs us as individuals.' Whereas my father was still cutting ads out of the paper, saying: 'Here's a good job, teaching.' When I got a job in local radio and left to go to Dublin, he said: 'You're giving up a full-time job to take up a contract for just one series of a kids' TV programme!' But he was just saying I should have something to fall back on. Yet he and my mother backed me no matter what I wanted to do. And she really was a solid platform you could always come back to, she had real strength of spirit."

In the early Nineties, Carrie also "did some acting with the Red Kettle theatre company", was "doing a bit of singing", then met the girls with whom she formed the vocal trio Miss Brown to You. But she says she didn't have real confidence in any one area. So how about sexual confidence? Was Crowley, who would later become a figure of romantic longing for TV viewers - male and, presumably, female, given that she was once cited as a gay icon - always aware of how attractive she is?

"Not at all," she says, momentarily taken aback by the question and the compliment. "I have friends who are built like I am, and back when I was at school we were never the kind of 'girly' girls that guys would go out with. So I never really had boyfriends until I moved into my 30s and older men started asking me out.

"Then I realised I was attractive to men. But that doesn't meanthat back when I was 18, 19, I had no one to go out with. It's just that there weren't any big love affairsor passions, nobody swept me off my feet."

But was Carrie herself passionate, did she soak her adolescent soul in romantic poetry, novels, music and so on?

"Absolutely," she responds. "And maybe I was feeling thatpassion through poetry, theatre, cinema, whatever. I certainly was very easily moved to tears bysuch things."

Yet this form of vicarious passion is second-hand living, isn't it?

"Probably, but maybe you need to live second-hand before you can live fully, first-hand," Carrie suggests. "And I don't regret the pace at which things happened, romantically, in my life. I wouldn't have been ready for any of my great passions when I was young. In my 20s, I had love affairs of two or three years that burned themselves out, or turned out not to answer whatever inner need you have."

Did Carrie leave these love affairs or was she given the boot?

"In one case I was given the boot!" she responds, smiling. "And I had cried buckets for a week and got plastered every night, but then he came back, and I didn't engage in the same way, so I left. But that break-up, initially, really hurt because it was my first big love affair and I really believed it was love." Someone once told me 'Carrie doesn't really like men'. Any truth to that?

"And you heard I liked women?"

Yes.

"That's hilarious!" she responds. "I have never ever had a lesbian relationship! But this brings me back to saying I wasn't attractive to men in my teens. At the time I probably was more attractive to women, but I wasn't attracted to them. And I don't regret never having had a lesbian relationship."

Carrie's core romanticism was tested when both her folks died within a year of each other, around 2002. "Dad died first, from cancer, like my mother eventually did, but he died within six months of being diagnosed as having pancreatic cancer," she explains. "But dad also had an unconditional faith and completely believed in the hereafter, and would even joke: 'Sure we're all in the departure lounge, it's just a matter of when your plane is called!'

"But my mother fought it to the end, she didn't want to let go - maybe because her faith wasn't as strong as his. But my greatest memory surrounding my father's death is of the day he died. He was in St Vincent's, here in Dublin, my mother was at home, and myself and my sister were sitting on the stairs outside his ward while the nurse was tending to him, and we said: 'We'll have to get Mom to come up.'

But it was as if he'd heard us and he said to himself: 'Your mother's not well enough for the journey, I'll just go now.' Then the nurse came out and said: 'He is going.' So we went into the room, and at that very moment a priest just happened to be passing, so candles were lit . . . "

At this point Carries cries. "And the priest himself chose to say The Lord Is My Shepherd, which was one of my father's favourite psalms, so my sister and I joined in, and it all seemed so appropriate and so right. Then I lay on the bed touching him, talking to him, joking with him and it was wonderful.

"He was gone, but he was there. And I feel sorry for people who haven't been able to experience that kind of goodbye in terms of a parent. I was exhilarated, exuding joy, and that really helped my mother when we arrived home that night. What my father gifted us though his death carried us through it all."

Even so, a year later, a week before her dad's anniversary, Carrie's mother died.

"But, again, her death was a gift, in a way. Because myself, Brid and Mom had been saying: 'We must go for a holiday,' and for the last two weeks of my mom's life myself and Brid moved into the Mater Hospital and camped on the floor, so we had our holiday!" she says.

"And we looked back over stories in her life and chatted together and that, too, was exhilarating, the perfect way to say goodbye. I even'I don't regret the pace at which things happened, romantically, in my life. I wouldn't have been ready for great passions when I was young'

had the chance to feed my mother, which was gorgeous, because it gave me the chance to nurture her like she nurtured me. And in the end she just slipped away. But I still have the strongest sense of the presence, in my life, of both my mother and father."

The pain of losing her parents on a purely physical level surfaced a year later and left Carrie "crying all the time" and confining herself to bed "for a week, to weep it all out", which was "very healing". Equally healing was the fact that back in 1996 she fell in love with the man whom she married earlier this year, Ross Kelly.

"I had been a commitment-phobe, and that all changed when I met Ross," Carrie asserts. "At first I wasn't sure about him, or us, but then one night, about four months after we met, he called to bring me for dinner, and when he came to the door I just thought: 'I am head over heels in love with this guy!'

"Then, last November we were on holiday and he proposed. I thought he was joking but then I saw he wasn't and I just started crying! We got married in New York - we had a very spiritual ceremony conducted by an inter-faith minister in Ross's brother's bar - and now I am ferociously committed. Maybe, before Ross, I just hadn't met the right person. My sister even says I became an 'evangelist for marriage'!"

All of which leaves only one question. Given that Carrie Crowley is, herself, the child of a clearly sacred union, does she ever long to have a baby that might, 40 years from now, sit with another reporter and sing a song of praise to her in the same way she eulogises her parents?

"If it's to be, it will be. But if not, that too is for a reason," she responds. "And because of how my life has already gone, I don't feel I will be dealt the wrong cards. I was broody around 30, and did go for having a baby, once, but it didn't happen. Yet now, with Ross, I would hate to become obsessed with the idea. I don't feel that driving need.

"Though when my parents died I did feel a sharp knife had cut through the family line and thought: 'They are gone, what's going to continue of them, seeing as though Brid or I don't have children?' But she or I could, still, become pregnant.

"Yet apart from that, after my parents died I also asked myself: 'What is there I haven't done, that I would like to do before I die?' - and one thing I must do is write. I've been putting stuff on scraps of paper for years but now I've half a play written and the bones of a novel, both of which I want to finish. But overall, I couldn't be happier, and totally agree when you say my life has been blessed."

Joe Jackson

'This Ebony Bird' opens tomorrow at the Half Moon Theatre, Cork
Darts

Your guide to the World Darts Championship  all you need to know as Luke Littler begins his title defence at Ally Pally tonight
Key Points

Every portfolio should have dividend stocks for diversification and stability.

High yields aren't everything, and investors should balance high yields with reliability and growth.

10 stocks we like better than Realty Income 

Dividend stocks are the anchor for any great portfolio. Whether you generally prefer safe stocks, or your portfolio is concentrated in growth stocks, dividend stocks provide diversification, stability, and passive income for every investor.

The market could continue its ascent for now, but at some point, there's going to be some sort of correction. If you're looking for some excellent dividend stocks to protect your portfolio and help it grow under any circumstances, here are five top candidates.

Image source: Home Depot.

1. Realty Income

Realty Income (NYSE: O) is the classic top dividend stock. It has everything you'd want in a dividend stock, including high yield, rock-solid reliability, and growth. On top of that, it pays monthly.

It's a real estate investment trust (REIT), a class that pays out 90% of earnings as dividends. Realty Income is a retail REIT, which means that it leases properties primarily to retailers, although it has been expanding into other areas, too.

Today, it's one of the biggest REITs in the world, with 15,500 properties. It leases to names you know and shop from, like Walmart, Home Depot (NYSE: HD), and Walgreens, and it has a large pipeline of properties to buy and keep on growing.

Realty Income's dividend yields 5.6% at its recent price, and it has paid that dividend for the past 665 consecutive months.

2. Bank of America

Bank of America (NYSE: BAC) is the second-largest bank in the U.S., and it's a Warren Buffett favorite. It plays a large role in the U.S. economy, with a robust consumer unit, and a growing commercial one.

It generally follows the trajectory of the banking sector, but with its size and focus, it's more stable than small, regional banks. It's also reliable for growth, since so many people depend on it for their financial management. It has more than 38 million consumer accounts, including 212,000 new ones in the third quarter, and 92% of them are primary accounts.

Bank of America's dividend yields 2% at its recent price, and the dividend has increased 460% over the past 10 years.

3. Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola (NYSE: KO) is a Dividend King, and its dividend is legendary. The company has raised it for the past 63 years straight, through thick and thin, making it as reliable as any. Plus, it yields 2.9% right now. That's slightly lower than its average of around 3% because the stock has been doing quite well, too.
Donald Trump asks for investigation into paedophile Jeffrey Epsteins links to Democrats including Bill Clinton

US president makes announcement two days after thousands of documents were released, raising new questions about his relationship with Epstein

Donald Trump is under pressure following the release of thousands of new documents

Andy Sullivan Reuters Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 06:30

US president Donald Trump yesterday said he will ask the Justice Department to investigate Jeffrey Epsteins alleged ties with US bank JP Morgan and prominent Democrats, including former president Bill Clinton.
Russian strikes calculated to cause maximum harm to people and civilian infrastructure, says Zelensky

Attacks escalate even as Vladimir Putin presents mask of good faith to US on hopes for peace

A woman stands with a dog next to the site of an apartment building hit during an overnight Russian drone and missile strike in Kyiv, Ukraine yesterday. Photo: Reuters

James C Reynolds and Steffie Banatvala UK Independent Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 06:30

Russia launched a blistering assault on Ukraine overnight yesterday, killing at least six people and injuring 35.
Angelica Munduruku holds a monkey as she blocks an entrance to the Cop30 climate summit in Belem, Brazil. Photo: AP

About 100 indigenous protesters blocked the main entrance to the United Nations climate conference on the edge of the Brazilian Amazon for 90 minutes yesterday in a peaceful standoff that ended after a lengthy discussion with the climate talks president, who cradled a protesters baby during the talks.

Brazilian military personnel kept demonstrators from entering the site hosting Cop30 meetings in Belem, but there appeared to be no physical altercations. The protesters, most in traditional indigenous garb, formed a human chain around the entrance to block people from entering as the days meetings began.
UN condemns spate of settler violence against Palestinians

Bodies of unidentified Palestinians returned from Israel as part of the ceasefire deal are carried to Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis. Photo: AP

Israel returned the bodies of 15 Palestinians to Gaza yesterday, officials at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis said, in the latest step to fulfilling the terms of the fragile US-brokered ceasefire agreement.

The bodies were returned after militants late on Thursday handed over the body of one of the last four remaining Israeli hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, attack that launched the war in Gaza.
Donald Trump has said he will sue the BBC next week after the corporation apologised but declined to compensate him for its edited version of a 2021 speech broadcast by Panorama.
Woolly mammoth from the Ice Age 39,000 years ago is one step closer to de-extinction, say scientists

Swedish experts have extracted vital RNA from one of the ancient beasts frozen in Siberia that could pave the way to bring back other long-gone species

Could the woolly mammoth roam the planet again? Photo: Getty

Joe Pinkstone Telegraph Media Group Holdings Ltd Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 06:30

Woolly mammoths are a step closer to coming back from extinction after scientists made a key genetic breakthrough.
Ana de Armas spotted with Marcelo Valente



( Image credit : X @archivedearmas | Ana de Armas was recently spotted in Los Angeles with Marcelo Valente. )

Tom Cruise made buzz with The Running Man premiere appearance



Why Ana de Armas ended the relationship



( Image credit : X @archivedearmas | Ana de Armas appears focused on her personal life. )

Ana reportedly found the pace of the relationship too fast



( Image credit : X @archivedearmas | Sources say Ana de Armas ended the relationship because things were moving too fast. )

Cruise is turning to work to handle the breakup



A new wave of celebrity romance drama is making headlines as reports suggest Ana de Armas, the Cuban-Spanish actress known forand, might be moving on following her split from Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise. The actress was spotted casually strolling in Los Angeles with Marcelo Valente, a partner at venture capital firm Babel Ventures. While there was no public display of affection, fans quickly speculated about a possible new chapter in Anas personal life.The actress was seen walking around Los Angeles in early November with Marcelo Valente. According to TMZ, the pair were simply spending time together, with no PDA or overt signs of a romantic relationship. However, the appearance was enough to set social media abuzz. This sighting comes shortly after Anas breakup with Cruise, signalling that she may be ready to focus on herself or explore new connections.Meanwhile, Tom Cruise doesnt appear to be pausing either. The actor attended the London premiere of The Running Man, which stars his Top Gun: Maverick co-star Glen Powell. Cruise was photographed alongside actress Emilia Jones, who also shared the image on her Instagram. Fans quickly noticed the pairing and sparked rumors, wondering if Cruise may be moving on as well. While the sighting could be coincidental, speculation about his love life intensified.Sources close to the couple, including Rob Shuters, explained that Ana made the decision to end things. Cruise, despite adoring Ana, reportedly acted like a director, not a boyfriend. His high-energy, controlling approach extended to every aspect of their time together, from dinners to weekend plans. Every dinner, every outfit, every weekend plan, he had notes. It was exhausting, a source told the outlet.Multiple reports indicate that Ana became uncomfortable with how quickly the relationship was moving. A source toldThings were moving fast, and she started to get a little uncomfortable with how fast it was going. Cruises high-octane approach contrasted with Anas desire for a more balanced, equal partnership.Outlets like thereported that Ana and Cruise ultimately decided to end the romantic part of their relationship to maintain a professional working friendship. Both actors are set to star in the upcoming movie Deeper. They got together to see if they would be able to work together, and that developed into something more, which neither of them expected, the report added.Despite the split, Cruise reportedly hasnt handled the breakup easily. Sources say he alternates between insisting it was Anas loss and questioning if hell ever meet someone who truly understands him. Hes uneasy, isolated, and overthinking everything, an insider said. Friends note that Cruise is throwing himself into work as a way to cope, as he doesnt know how to sit with heartbreak, so he buries it in effort.The post-breakup phase of Ana de Armas and Tom Cruises relationship has quickly become a topic of intense fan speculation. With Ana potentially exploring new companionship and Cruise keeping busy professionally, both stars appear to be navigating the split in their own ways.
Kerala lottery result today , November 15, 2025 Live:

Kerala Karunya KR 731 winning numbers, November 15, 2025

1st Prize: Rs. 1 CRORE

2nd Prize: Rs. 25,00,000 -

3rd Prize: Rs. 10 LAKH

Consolation Prize: Rs. 5,000

4th Prize: Rs. 5,000

5th Prize: Rs. 2000

6th Prize : Rs 1,000

7th Prize : Rs 500

8th Prize : Rs 200

9th Prize : Rs 100

How to claim your Kerala lottery prize for November 15, 2025?

To claim your Kerala lottery prize for the November 15, 2025 draw, follow these steps:

Verify your winning ticket with the official Kerala Lottery results to ensure it is a prize winner.

Sign your name and write your address on the back of the original ticket to prevent misuse.

For prizes up to Rs 5,000, claim directly from any authorized lottery agent.

For prizes above Rs 5,000 but up to Rs 1 lakh, claim at the District Lottery Office with your signed ticket and valid ID.

For prizes above Rs 1 lakh, submit your signed ticket along with a filled claim form, two passport-size photos attested by a gazetted officer or notary, a copy of your PAN card, and government-issued ID proof to the Director of State Lotteries in Kerala.

Submit your claim within 30 days of the draw date to avoid disqualification.

For prizes exceeding Rs 10 lakh, the claim will be verified by the Finance Department before approval.

Prize money is subject to 30% tax deduction and a 10% agent commission on the winning prize amount.

Minor winners are required to submit a guardianship certificate, and joint claims must include a joint declaration on stamp paper.

kerala lottery result today live: What time are Karunya KR 731 results published?

Kerala lottery Pooja Bumper BR-106 Draw on November 22

1st Prize:

2nd Prize:

Consolation Prize:

3rd Prize:

4th Prize:

5th Prize:

6th Prize:

7th Prize:

8th Prize:

Upcoming Kerala Lottery Tickets

Lottery Draw Date Karunya KR-731 November 15, 2025 Samrudhi SM-29 November 16, 2025 Bhagyathara BT-29 November 17, 2025 Sthree Sakthi SS-494 November 18, 2025 Dhanalekshmi DL-27 November 19, 2025 Karunya Plus KN-598 November 20, 2025 Suvarna Keralam SK-28 November 21, 2025

FAQs

1. When will the Kerala Karunya KR 731 lottery results for November 15, 2025, be announced?

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The Kerala State Lotteries Department has released the Karunya KR 731 results today, November 15, 2025. Many ticket holders have been waiting for this moment, as the afternoon draw could change their lives. The LIVE Karunya KR 731 draw was held using a lotto machine at Gorky Bhavan, near Bakery Junction in Thiruvananthapuram, at 3 PM.The Karunya KR 731 draw, part of the weekly Kerala Lottery lineup, also gives players a chance to win big. The first prize is Rs 1 crore, the second prize is Rs 25 lakh, and the third prize is Rs 10 lakh.The full list of winning numbers for the Karunya KR 731 draw was posted here after 3:05 PM. Keep checking for live updates, prize details, and a simple guide on how to claim your prize.The winning numbers for the Karunya KR 731 draw for November 15, 2025 include:- KX 656500KY 877756- KS 173936- TBA- 0355, 1612, 2164, 2259, 2836, 3292, 3890, 3942, 4323, 4482, 5759, 5787, 7052, 7178, 7904, 8357, 9018, 9272, 9629- 0246, 2525, 3080, 3345, 8866, 9235- 1017, 1096, 1769, 2614, 2689, 2984, 3316, 4050, 4093, 4725, 4904, 5860, 5954, 6043, 7611, 8466, 8521, 9069, 0311, 0843, 1904, 2746, 4166, 8860, 2627- 0051, 0525, 0529, 0825, 0976, 1006, 1587, 1638, 1802, 1825, 1876, 1892, 1901, 1947, 1948, 2045, 2181, 2452, 2471, 2487, 2506, 2670, 2696, 3127, 3203, 3207, 3210, 3268, 3324, 3521, 3555, 3648, 3755, 3810, 3836, 3928, 4108, 4135, 4229, 4343, 4523, 4559, 4607, 4770, 4775, 4817, 4894, 5202, 5226, 5257, 6182, 6202, 6412, 6585, 6665, 7103, 7280, 7342, 7530, 8309, 8438, 8446, 8493, 8686, 8768, 8864, 9238, 9313, 9504, 9633, 9678, 9788, 9860, 9890, 9914, 9921- 0118, 0219, 0625, 0763, 0768, 0865, 0922, 1005, 1033, 1035, 1059, 1173, 1546, 1618, 1634, 1635, 1676, 1739, 1803, 1863, 1865, 1953, 2066, 2214, 2321, 2368, 2384, 2402, 2508, 2589, 2716, 2868, 2925, 2930, 2960, 3052, 3130, 3202, 3239, 3270, 3440, 3565, 3619, 4268, 4271, 4507, 4557, 4564, 4654, 4764, 5263, 5493, 5521, 5651, 5674, 5840, 5841, 5887, 5918, 5952, 6046, 6138, 6193, 6298, 6307, 6428, 6842, 7205, 7293, 7296, 7491, 7623, 7760, 7801, 7825, 7827, 7948, 8470, 8487, 8502, 8535, 8547, 9086, 9185, 9435, 9517, 9536, 9566, 9809, 9812, 9950, 9958.- 0013, 0165, 0209, 0214, 0356, 0471, 0485, 0522, 0532, 0548, 0623, 0624, 0723, 0804, 0805, 0808, 0866, 0931, 1037, 1210, 1229, 1241, 1248, 1378, 1487, 1643, 1731, 1743, 1845, 1871, 1880, 1940, 1995, 2071, 2076, 2098, 2125, 2205, 2243, 2357, 2513, 2588, 2606, 2634, 2652, 2685, 2704, 2709, 2737, 2739, 2750, 2892, 2934, 2949, 3265, 3314, 3330, 3343, 3426, 3549, 3563, 3579, 3581, 3672, 3706, 3829, 3832, 3864, 3978, 4227, 4315, 4344, 4591, 4595, 4754, 4788, 5002, 5437, 5438, 5528, 5636, 5776, 5827, 5931, 6041, 6157, 6197, 6221, 6321, 6435, 6495, 6549, 6576, 6602, 6609, 6653, 6694, 6706, 6822, 6837, 6889, 6973, 7297, 7386, 7392, 7399, 7554, 7607, 7628, 7647, 7701, 7787, 7809, 7868, 7943, 8010, 8172, 8186, 8200, 8361, 8371, 8456, 8490, 8504, 8621, 8704, 8709, 8799, 8803, 8829, 8905, 9131, 9177, 9219, 9291, 9302, 9340, 9354, 9482, 9506, 9563, 9584, 9702, 9897.The Karunya KR 731 Kerala lottery results for November 15, 2025, are published live starting around 3 PM IST. The draw takes place at Gorky Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram, and the official results are usually available by 4:30 PM.The Kerala Pooja Bumper Lottery 2025 is one of the biggest yearly draws in the state. The Pooja Bumper 2025 (BR-106) will take place on November 22, 2025, at 2:00 PM.This years BR-106 draw comes with a long list of prizes. Here is the full prize breakdown:Rs 12 CroreRs 1 CroreRs 1 LakhRs 5 LakhRs 3 LakhRs 2 LakhRs 5,000Rs 1,000Rs 500 9th Prize: Rs 300Disclaimer: The above mentioned data is based on information available from official online sources. We do not endorse or promote any lottery or Teer games. Please play responsibly and verify results through official channels.The results are announced live at 3 PM IST from Gorky Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram. Official results are usually available by 4:30 PM IST.You can check the Kerala lottery results for Karunya KR 731 on the official Kerala Lottery website or authorised portals. Compare your ticket number with the published winning numbers to see if youve won.1st Prize: Rs 1 Crore 2nd Prize: Rs 25 Lakh 3rd Prize: Rs 5 Lakh Consolation Prize: Rs 5,000 4th Prize: Rs 5,000 5th Prize: Rs 2,000 6th Prize: Rs 1,000 7th Prize: Rs 500 8th Prize: Rs 200 9th Prize: Rs 100Up to Rs 5,000: Claim from authorised lottery agents. Above Rs 5,000 up to Rs 1 Lakh: Claim at the District Lottery Office with ticket and valid ID. Above Rs 1 Lakh: Submit the ticket, filled claim form, 2 passport photos, PAN card, and government ID to the Director of State Lotteries. Submit claims within 30 days of the draw.Yes, 30% tax is deducted from prize money. Additionally, a 10% agent commission applies to winnings. Minor winners need a guardianship certificate, and joint claims require a joint declaration on stamp paper.
Vigil4Gaza has released the following statement on November 11 in response to the violent assault on their members as they were bannering in Sunnyvale:

On November 7th, members of Vigil4Gaza were violently attacked while displaying Palestinian flags and banners calling for justice in Palestine. This was the 30th bannering event in an ongoing awareness campaign that began in July 2025.The encounter started when an unidentified masked man approached a large Palestinian flag on display, crouched down and used a knife to cut the cords holding it up.Upon noticing his act of sabotage, our volunteers demanded that he stop and leave the bridge. The man escalated the tension by waving a metal flashlight to intimidate the team. Fearing for their safety, the volunteers began to escort him away, fully aware of the knife in his possession. He shouted aggressively while being ushered away and made derogatory racist comments towards Palestinians and their flag.Despite having every opportunity to disengage and a free path to leave, the man instead became physically violent, forcefully and repeatedly shoving a woman trying to deescalate the tensions. Despite this, she did not respond physically or vocally and continued to peacefully escort him away from the group.Instead of walking away, he struck the woman in the face with his flashlight, causing heavy bleeding from the face and mouth. This triggered the volunteers to subdue the assailant until the police could arrive in order to prevent further injury. The man used his flashlight to strike another volunteer several times on the head during this time, opening several lacerations that bled profusely and required emergency medical attention. The police rapidly responded to the call and arrested the assailant.While the actions of this one man are deplorable, expressions of anti-Palestinian racism directed at Vigil4Gaza members are nothing new. In fact, the attitudes that spurred his hateful rhetoric and violent assault are merely representative of the hate, discrimination and, in this instance, violence that Palestinians  and those who speak up for Palestinian human rights experience in the United States; and as distressing as his actions were they are but a modicum of what is endured every day throughout Palestine.We will not let this act of violence deter us from our advocacy, and we will not let it silence our calls for justice and an end to the genocide.For further information or questions contact Vigil4Gaza
Thousands of companies are listed on Americas stock exchanges, and there are thousands more that are privately held and have the potential to go public. The crowded modern business landscape is ripe for fraud, misconduct, and bad decisions, and when these issues become public, CEOs are often the first to take the fall.

High-profile CEOs have come under fire countless times for a variety of reasons. Corporate fraud, financial or ethical misconduct, poor performance, and bad business decisions are some of the most common.

Sometimes, CEOs are forcibly dismissed from their roles for egregious conduct, while in other cases, they are politely asked to step down by members of a companys board of directors.

5 well-known CEOs who were ousted from their companies

Here are five CEOs who were famously ousted (or politely encouraged to step down) from the chief executive role following corporate drama.

Carlos Ghosn stepped down as CEO of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance in 2018.Photo by STR on Getty Images

Carlos Ghosn (former CEO of Renault Nissan Mitsubishi Alliance)

Ghosn was CEO of the Renault Nissan Mitsubishi Alliance, which was formed by Renaults purchase of a minority stake in Nissan. Ghosn directly oversaw Nissan Motor, where he served as chairman, and he is often credited for turning the ailing Japanese automaker around from the start of his tenure in 2001. In 2018, though, Ghosn stepped down due to ethical misconduct.

Nissan launched an investigation into Ghosn for underreporting compensation and for other ethical lapses, including the personal use of company assets. In the fiscal third quarter of 2018, Nissan recorded 9.2 billion yen ($85 million in 2018) that had not been booked in prior fiscal years, which the Japan Times said was tied to Ghosns compensation scheme.

Related: The 3 biggest mistakes Warren Buffett made as Berkshire CEO

Nissan removed Ghosn from his positions, but to avoid prison, Ghosn was secretly flown out of Japan to Lebanon, the birthplace of his paternal grandfather, where he held Lebanese citizenship.

Japan and Lebanon have no extradition treaty, so Ghosn cannot be handed over to Japanese authorities. Ghosn sued Nissan $1 billion for his dismissal, and Nissan sued Ghosn $90 million to recover money from his fraudulent compensation.

Elizabeth Holmes resigned as Theranos CEO in 2018.

Elizabeth Holmes (Theranos founder and former CEO)

Elizabeth Holmes founded Theranos on the premise that a prick of a needle on a persons fingertip could be an easy and less painful way to extract blood and conduct an extensive bloodwork analysis. In 2014, Forbes listed her as the youngest self-made billionaire woman, with a net worth of $4.5 billion. In 2015, Forbes put her on their 30 Under 30 list, which highlights people under 30 years of age for their notable achievements in business.

Later that year, however, The Wall Street Journal released a series of investigative articles on Theranos, reporting that its claims of conducting a complete blood test from just a few drops of blood were exaggerated. In June 2018, the U.S. filed a case against Holmes and another Theranos executive, Ramesh Sunny Balwani, for defrauding doctors and patients by making false claims concerning Theranoss ability to provide accurate, fast, reliable, and cheap blood tests and test results, among other charges. Holmes resigned as CEO on the same day of the indictment.

The pair was also found to have lied to investors about Theranos' ability to generate about $1 billion in revenue in 2015, when in actuality, the company could only generate modest revenues. In April 2023, Holmes began serving an 11-year, 3-month sentence in federal prison for defrauding investors to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars.

Adam Neumann stepped down as WeWork CEO in 2019.Shahar Azran/Getty Images

Adam Neumann (WeWork co-founder and former CEO)

Adam Neumann had some early failures starting businesses, but he struck it rich with the 2010 founding of WeWork, a company that took over buildings and leased out shared office space. Small businesses and individuals who couldnt afford to rent a full suite in an office building could now set up shop in a building that WeWork retrofitted with a modern-looking layout and furniture.

WeWork started with a small space in Manhattan, and at its peak in 2019, it reportedly had 800 locations in 124 cities worldwide. Neumann served as CEO from 2010 to 2019, when he stepped down just before a planned IPO, exactly when WeWorks unicorn status started to unravel.

More on CEOs:

The companys prospectus raised red flags on future profitability, although billions of dollars had been invested to fund an aggressive expansion plan. The company was locked in on long-term leases, but its revenue stream was based on short-term rentals.

WeWork reportedly had a peak valuation of $47 billion before the planned IPO, but its financial unraveling derailed its IPO hopes and lowered its private value. Neumann then stepped down as CEObut not before he was given $1.7 billion by the companys board to sever his ties with WeWork. The saga was immortalized in the documentary, "WeWork: Or the Making and Breaking of a $47 Billion Unicorn."

Travis Kalanick stepped down as Uber CEO in 2017.Photo by Bloomberg on Getty Images

Travis Kalanick (Uber co-founder and former CEO)

Travis Kalanick co-founded the ride-hailing app in 2009 and was its CEO from 2010 to 2017. After the first iPhone was sold in 2007, smartphone apps became a popular medium around which newer companies built their businesses. Uber was among the early tech companies that took advantage of the rise in app use, developing a way to connect drivers with riders.

The app became popular, attracting millions of users in a matter of a few short years. Investors poured in billions of dollars, and the popularity of Ubers service led to an exponential growth in jobs, with 12,000 employed by 2017.

Related: 4 modern-day boycotts of major brands: Did they work?

In early 2017, however, accusations of a toxic work culture and sexual harassment went public, and by mid-2017, Uber adopted a set of recommendations designed to improve our culture, promote fairness and accountability, and establish processes and systems to ensure the mistakes of the past will not be repeated.

Still, the damage to Ubers reputation could not be undone, and responsibility fell to top management. Kalanick was forced to resign as CEO later in 2017, and he stepped down as a director in 2019.

Dennis Muilenburg resigned as Boeing CEO in 2019.Tom Williams/Getty Images

Dennis Muilenburg (former Boeing CEO)

In 2015, Dennis Muilenburg became Boeings 12th CEO since the aerospace company was founded in 1916, but his tenure would be short-lived compared to his predecessors, who typically served 10 years or more.

Muilenburg joined the company in 1985, and he worked in program management and engineering positions supporting its commercial airplanes and defense businesses for 15 years. He was then promoted to defense contract positions before moving on to executive roles.

Boeing was ambitious in its development of the 737 MAX, a short-haul plane thats smaller than the 787 Dreamliner and designed to compete with Airbuss new aircraft, the A320neo. The MAX was based on the 737 model but had bigger engines, and its updated design reduced costs compared to designing a new aircraft outright.

The MAX faced technical issues, and two fatal accidents raised concerns about Boeing and its management team. In 2018, a MAX aircraft operated by Lion Air, an Indonesian airliner, crashed after takeoff, killing all 189 passengers and crew, and in 2019, a MAX aircraft flown by Ethiopian Airlines crashed six minutes after takeoff, killing all 157 on board. Boeings automated flight control system was partly to blame.

Following the Ethiopian Airlines incident, Muilenburg stepped down as CEO in December 2019.

Related: Boeing's tumultuous company history: 12 CEOs in 11 decades

Other ousted CEOs worth mentioning

Plenty of other CEOs have also been summarily dismissed in high-profile incidents over the past decades. Here are just a few of them:

Sam Bankman-Fried is the former CEO of FTX, a now-defunct cryptocurrency exchange. Bankman-Fried stepped down as CEO in November 2022, just as the company filed for bankruptcy amid allegations of misusing customers money. Once worth as much as $26 billion before turning 30, his net worth all but evaporated with FTXs demise.

John Stumpf, former CEO of Wells Fargo, resigned in October 2016 after almost a decade in the role. He had to forfeit $41 million in stock awards after Wells Fargo admitted to improper sales practices within its retail bank. The bank was accused of opening millions of accounts for customers without their knowledge.

Bernard Ebbers is the late former CEO of WorldCom, whose assets were acquired by Verizon after the companys bankruptcy. Ebbers was the co-founder and CEO of the telecommunications company. He was forced to step down in April 2002 after allegations of accounting irregularities came to light, and the company went into bankruptcy. Eventually, investigators discovered $11 billion in accounting fraud. Ebbers received a 25-year prison sentence in 2005 but was released in late 2019 due to poor health. He died at 78 shortly after his release.

Related: History of Tesla & its stock: Timeline, facts & milestones

This story was originally reported by TheStreet on Nov 15, 2025, where it first appeared in the Personalities section. Add TheStreet as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
This is The Takeaway from today's Morning Brief, which you can sign up to receive in your inbox every morning along with:

What we're watching

What we're reading

Economic data releases and earnings

It's no coincidence that chatter of an AI bubble is growing louder just as bullish calls are becoming more confident. Tech valuations continue to rise alongside a gnawing feeling that things are about to crumble. FOMO trading goes a long way in explaining how tech's triumphant forward march can also seem so perilous, even fragile.

But a more charitable reading views so much money chasing so many unproven AI plans as a rational approach to the prospects, however remote, of a huge payoff. Call it a "rational bubble."

If the potential rewards are so large, it makes sense for the market to adopt a venture capital approach of sorts to AI investing  placing multiple bets and risking more than is comfortable. A sole winner  or a handful of winning investments  can more than offset the losses.

In the meantime, though, things can get ugly, and they have.

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As Wedbush analyst Dan Ives wrote in a note to clients on Friday, this week's tech pullback was a brutal, white-knuckle moment for investors. What started as pressure against Palantir (PLTR) last week, even after the company posted impressive results, snowballed into more AI bubble talk, combining worries over Nvidia's (NVDA) China revenues, OpenAI's (OPAI.PVT) perceived hubris, and "The Big Short" investor Michael Burry betting against AI darlings.

But even as Ives captured the souring mood around AI, he just as quickly made the case for doubling down.

In a nutshell, we view this as a short lived mini panic moment for tech stocks as we believe tech stocks will have a major rally into the rest of the year as investors look to play the AI Revolution and the 2nd/3rd/4th derivatives now playing out across consumer and enterprise names, said Ives.

He views the AI deployment around Nvidia and the Big Tech platforms as just the first wave of the tech transition. For every $1 spent on Nvidia, he contends, $8 to $10 will be generated through downstream AI products and services. (Nvidia is scheduled to report earnings on Wednesday, in what Ives describes as a "major validation moment.")

Palantir CEO Alex Karp, in an interview this week at Yahoo Finance's annual Invest conference, criticized some of the analysts who have discouraged investors from putting money into the company, which has attracted immense retail interest, even as some others are concerned over its lofty valuation.
Philadelphia Police said Arkel Garcia, 31, is suspected of beating an elderly acquaintance to death. Read more

A man whose murder conviction was overturned because of its connection to disgraced former Philadelphia homicide detective Philip Nordo is now suspected of committing another homicide, according to police.

Authorities have issued an arrest warrant for Arkel Garcia, 31, for the fatal beating of an elderly acquaintance on Wednesday inside a fourth-floor apartment in the citys Stenton section in what authorities believe was a robbery, according to law enforcement sources.

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Shortly before 11 a.m. Wednesday, 35th District officers responded to a report of a person with a weapon at an apartment unit on the 4900 block of Stenton Avenue, according to a police report. After a maintenance worker let officers into the unit, they discovered David Weinkopff, 68, in a wheelchair, with blunt force trauma to his face and stomach, his apartment ransacked.

Paramedics pronounced him dead a short time later.

The crime does not appear to be random, said the sources, who asked not to be identified to discuss an ongoing investigation. Neighbors told police they had seen Garcia  whom they knew as Mike or Black  going in and out of the building in the past. Witnesses said he was friendly with several residents, including Weinkopff, who they said had been struggling with drug addiction, police records say.

It was not clear what Garcia may have taken from Weinkopff, but drug paraphernalia was found on the scene, along with several blood-stained metallic rods.

Police records indicate investigators also obtained video and audio footage linking Garcia to the crime.

Deputy Police Commissioner Frank Vanore said a warrant for his arrest on murder charges was approved Friday, the sources said.

Ten years ago, Garcia was convicted and sentenced to life in prison for the shooting death of Christian Massey, a 21-year-old man with special needs who was killed over a pair of Beats by Dre headphones in Overbrook.

But in 2021, District Attorney Larry Krasners office helped overturn Garcias conviction. Prosecutors said they believed that Nordo  who by then had been charged with raping and sexually assaulting male witnesses  had obtained a false confession from Garcia while trying to pursue sexual relationships with two other key witnesses.

Nordo had ulterior motives during this investigation that had nothing to do with solving this murder, prosecutors said at the time, citing emails and recorded phone calls between Nordo and men they said were his sexual targets.

A confidential informant who spoke to Nordo about the Garcia case later told The Inquirer that Nordo sexually assaulted him during the investigation, and also failed to protect his identity, leading to threats from neighborhood drug dealers. The informant was later convicted of killing someone during what he said was a confrontation that stemmed from having been labeled a snitch.

A judge agreed to throw Garcias case out, and Krasners office declined to retry him.

Still, Garcia was not released from prison right away. He had been separately convicted of aggravated assault for fighting with a sheriffs deputy inside the courthouse moments after he was found guilty of Masseys murder. A judge sentenced him to five to 10 years in prison for that crime, and Garcia remained incarcerated for it until last fall, when he was released on parole.

Nordo, meanwhile, spent two decades on the force and was at one point considered one of the citys most prolific homicide detectives. But in 2022, he was convicted of sexually assaulting witnesses and informants during murder investigations, and a judge sentenced him to 24 to 49 years in prison.

After Krasners office charged Nordo with sex crimes, it began reinvestigating more than 100 cases the detective helped build, and prosecutors later moved to overturn at least 15 convictions tied to him. Some reversals were considered exonerations  instances in which a conviction was overturned and charges dropped  while others were overturned and resulted in guilty pleas to lesser charges.

Garcias impending arrest marks at least the second time that a person whose case was overturned due to Nordos misconduct was accused of committing another crime.

James Frazier was sentenced to life in prison after he confessed to being an accomplice in a 2012 ambush slaying of a man and his girlfriend. But he later appealed, arguing Nordo had coerced him into signing a false statement of guilt.

Fraziers conviction was overturned in 2019. But he was later charged with shooting a man twice in the leg in 2021, apparently as part of a botched drug deal. He pleaded guilty the next year and was sentenced to 11 to 23 months in jail, court records show.

In Garcias case, detectives recovered video footage showing a man with crutches, believed to be Garcia, entering and exiting the apartment unit at different times around the time of the killing, police records say. While the man with crutches is inside, audio recording captured sounds of a struggle, and a loud thud, according to the report.

Garcia later called another man who lived in a nearby unit and told him to check on Weinkopff, police records say.

Additional objects linked by police to the murder scene, including several more metallic rods, cleaning supplies, and discarded clothing, were discovered on SEPTA tracks nearby.
File photo of the seal for the United States Department of Justice on April 13, 2023. Read more

A 21-year-old Egg Harbor Township man who allegedly wrote celebratory online posts about a child sextortion network called 764 was charged by federal prosecutors with cyberstalking a 13-year-old girl who cut herself on camera after being threatened by him, acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba said Friday.

Marek Cherkaoui was arrested Friday and was ordered detained after a court appearance, Habba said.

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No documents were immediately available listing an attorney for Cherkaoui.

In the criminal complaint, Cherkaoui allegedly praised the online movement called 764, which has been the recent focus of multiple federal investigations against young men accused of being leaders, members or followers of 764, including several accused of coercing minors into creating child pornography and animal torture videos.

Cherkaoui also praised the perpetrators of school shootings and international terrorist attacks, made antisemitic statements, and described himself as a pedophile, the complaint said. I just want a 13yo trad wife, he allegedly told one of his victims.

In June of this year, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his home in Egg Harbor Township and took various items, including his phone.

Cherkaoui got a new phone and continued to make threatening and disturbing posts online, the complaint said.

On Sept. 22, according to the criminal complaint, Cherkaoui wrote that 764 is my favorite honestly because the[y] go after  minority kids  which is awesome  Better for them to be removed when theyre young before they grow up and become a bigger problem  They marginalized [i.e., minority] kids are a very good high-value soft target for 764 and the other groups should take note.

The next day, he allegedly wrote: Society must collapse to STOP WHITE GENOCIDE!!! I support all groups mainly 764 and TCC [true crime creators] unleash them let them pray on all marginalized minority children.

The day after that, he allegedly wrote: These groups are the natural expression of high-T [high testosterone] masculinity against a dysfunctional feministic society. If you never thought about doing a masshooting [sic] before, then youre low-T.

The complaint said he earlier had written online about targeting another victim, who the FBI is still trying to identify, and when he learned that the victim may have died by suicide, he cheered: My kill count +1.

He threatened other victims, attempting to coerce them into harming themselves, authorities said.

The girl he is charged with cyberstalking is described as a 13-year-old in Passaic County, North Jersey.

Cherkaoui allegedly began communicating with her in late 2024. She told investigators that Cherkaoui and another individual threatened to dox her  to release personal identifying information online about her  if she did not cut herself.

The young men in the world of 764 allegedly seek to make girls cut letters into their bodies, usually from the online names of their stalkers. And the name 764 comes from the first three numbers of the Texas zip code of the movements founder.

The victim made multiple cuts on her left arm, the complaint said, and then posted a photograph online of her arm with what appeared to be the healing cuts.

The photo was seen by others who apparently tried to convince her to stop interacting with Cherkaoui.

I know you guys are trying to get me out of the situation  but I dont wanna get doxxed because Im scared because this world is a f up place, she wrote.

Cherkaoui continued to send her communications, the complaint said, and tried to convince her to cut herself again.

In May, Cherkaoui and another individual threatened the girl again with doxing, and Cherkaoui demanded that she do it live on camera, the complaint alleges.

In response to and because of the threats, Victim 1 joined Cherkaouis channel and filmed herself making multiple cuts on her right arm, the complaint said.

Victim 1 then decided to delete her online accounts. After she did that, Cherkaoui doxed her by posting information online about her family, residence, and school (although some of that information was incorrect), the complaint said.

The count of cyberstalking a minor victim carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, and up to a $250,000 fine, Habba said.
Carlee Evangeline was born on Sept. 9. Her mother, Rebecca Johnson, did not know she was pregnant with her until she went into labor. MUST CREDIT: Rebecca Johnson Read more

On a recent morning, Rebecca Johnson woke up with back pain. She tried to shrug it off.

I thought maybe its an old mattress or I have sciatica, said Johnson, 37. I took a Tylenol and went to work.

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By the time Johnson  a special-education teacher in Virginia  got to school that morning, Sept. 9, she was doubled over in pain.

Im telling my husband it feels like labor pains, but theres no way its that, said Johnson, who works at Dupont Elementary in Hopewell, south of Richmond.

Before long, it hurt too much to walk. Her back throbbed, and she felt a constant urge to urinate. Given the symptoms, she figured it was a kidney stone  something she had never previously experienced.

Johnson and her husband, Lee, rushed to TriCities Hospital. While they waited to see a doctor, the pain intensified by the minute.

Im telling my husband this hurts worse than any labor Ive been in, said Johnson, who has two daughters, ages 9 and 1. Im yelling so loudly.

Nurses who examined her suspected a kidney stone, too, and moved her to a small private room.

Suddenly, Johnsons lower half was drenched in fluid  which she assumed was urine she couldnt control. She then told the nurses she needed to go to the bathroom, and as she sat on a bedside commode, she felt something moving through her.

She looked over at a nurse who appeared to be in shock.

Thats a head! the nurse exclaimed.

Johnson was giving birth to a full-term baby girl. She had no idea she was pregnant.

Im going through the panic in my brain, Johnson said. Meanwhile, my husband has gone sheet white.

They moved Johnson over to a stretcher to deliver the child.

I was screaming so loud, she said. I delivered within three or four pushes.

I look at my husband, and Im like, What is going on? Johnson said.

They were in disbelief. The couple married in 2011, and they spent years trying to start a family. After fertility treatments, they welcomed their first daughter, Clara Snow, in 2016.

We were told after that we werent going to be able to have kids without intervention, Johnson said.

Eight years later, the couple was stunned when Johnson became pregnant naturally with their second daughter, Cecilia Lyn, who was born in August 2024.

We just thought this was never going to happen again and it was a big fluke, Johnson said.

In February 2025, Johnson noticed that her breast milk dried up earlier than expected  which can happen with a new pregnancy  but the same thing had happened six months after the birth of her first daughter. She took two pregnancy tests just to be sure, and both were negative.

Then in April, she started having some pain in her lower abdominal area and assumed it was an ovarian cyst, as she has polycystic ovary syndrome.

I took one day off work and a couple hot showers and I was fine, she said, noting that her period had not returned since giving birth to her second daughter, which can be normal with PCOS.

It can take up to a year to get your cycle back, Johnson said.

In the months that followed, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Johnson was often tired, she said, but she attributed that to caring for a toddler while working full-time.

She also noticed she wasnt losing much of the baby weight from her previous pregnancy  something she chalked up to her polycystic ovary syndrome.

Never once did pregnancy cross my brain, Johnson said.

When the baby arrived, the hospital staff was as dumbfounded as the parents. TriCities Hospital does not have a labor and delivery unit, so Johnson was transferred that evening to another hospital.

Everyone was very kind and very loving, Johnson said. Everyone came down to see the crazy baby who was born out of nowhere.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, only 1 in 2,500 pregnancies go unnoticed until delivery, in what is called a cryptic pregnancy, though staff members at TriCities Hospital said cases like Johnsons happen more often than one might think.

We see at least one every year, said Ashley Cundiff, the hospitals chief nursing officer. It was a really fun morning.

She said Johnson had a precipitous delivery, which is when childbirth occurs rapidly and sometimes unexpectedly.

It unfolded so quickly, said Brittney Dillard, the nursing director of the emergency room, who was there during Johnsons delivery. There was definitely shock among everybody.

Carlee Evangeline was born weighing 7 pounds and 8 ounces, and doctors believe that Johnson was between 38 and 40 weeks gestation. The story was first reported by CBS 6 News.

She ended up perfect, Johnson said. We were told we werent going to have a kid naturally. The second one was a blessing, and this one was just a straight miracle.

Still, it took Johnson time to adjust to her new reality of having a newborn she wasnt expecting. Neighbors, friends, and relatives immediately delivered baby clothing and food as soon as the family got home from the hospital.

Weve had a lot of support, Johnson said. This is amazing but crazy. This is really real.

Johnson said their three girls are doing great and adjusting well.

Everybody is happy and healthy, she said, adding that Carlees personality has started to come through. She is a big cuddler, Johnson said, and she often gives side-eye.

Johnson hopes their story offers hope to people facing fertility challenges.

Just remember, its not always your timing. Sometimes God steps in when you least expect it, she said.

Although Carlees arrival was certainly a shock, Johnson said her family feels complete.

I wouldnt want the story to go any other way, she said. Its who I get to come home to.
Quiara Alegria Hudes and her daughter, Cecilia, in Old City. Read more

Quiara Alegria Hudes grew up on the little street of South Saint Bernard near West Phillys Baltimore Avenue, but her family spanned the city and its borders. As a child, she shuttled between her home and her mothers extended Puerto Rican family in North Philly, while regularly visiting her fathers white, Jewish family on the Main Line.

Her writing is often rooted in Philly, though it spans borders and mediums, too. She cowrote the Tony-award winning musical In The Heights with Lin-Manuel Miranda, and won a Pulitzer in 2012 for her play Water by the Spoonful. Her 2021 memoir, My Broken Language, told the story of growing up in West Philadelphia and being the first in her family to attend college, at Yale.

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Now Hudes, 48, is experimenting once again with a new form: her debut novel, The White Hot, is out this month. Its a fever dream fantasy about a young mother from North Philadelphia escaping her predetermined life  and her child  in order to reckon with the white hot rage that sometimes consumes her and the women in her family. Its a gem of a book, poetic and propulsive at the same time.

Was my leaving a seed that might bear fruit? April, the main character, wonders. The possibility cracked open like a slitted envelope, that fleeing the stovetop and laundry machine could big-bang a new universe.

Heres how Hudes, who now lives in New York City, would spend a perfect Philly day.

7 a.m.

It starts on Christmas morning. Our across-the-street neighbors, Tracy and Charlie, bring over their pound cake.

The main event of the morning is that we head over to the Art Museum steps. The citys empty, you can double-park on the street.

We climb up to the top of the steps in our pajamas and just hang. Its magical and sleepy. The city has that wintery, cold air, blue-silver look to it. Youre looking through your crystallized breath.

9 a.m.

We walk through Center City to Sams Morning Glory Diner. (Were definitely doing some time travel: Now its a more temperate fall day.)

Of course, this is all on foot because, no shade, in my experience SEPTA just doesnt come. This is how I became a reader as a kid, because I had to do something while waiting for SEPTA.

At Morning Glory, they make their own ketchup. This is of utmost importance. Also, their biscuits are the best biscuits Ive ever had, but even that pales in comparison to the homemade ketchup.

Its never fancy with me  just give me two scrambled eggs and home fries, and some rye toast.

10:30 a.m.

We go on a Black history tour of Philly, with tour guide Mijuel K. Johnson of the Black Journey. Hes wonderful.

Even as a middle schooler, walking over the old cobblestone bricks of Old City, there was that sensation that 20 feet below, history is literally buried. Its nice getting new layers of the historical story.

Some walking tours can be: fact, fact, fact, and my eyes gloss over. But Mijuel is not just rattling off facts, hes really contextualizing stories.

1 p.m.

After all that walking, you want to sit down. The best bet is to go over to the Landmark Ritz Five and see whats playing. Just go to the next show and enjoy it.

4 p.m.

We head south, and stop at Garland of Letters on South Street. Its the O.G. New Age bookstore.

Theyre always burning some great-smelling incense, they always have a huge amethyst geode that costs $5,000. They have a fountain with water trickling. Its just peaceful  let the vibes center you.

4:30 p.m.

I go to Fantes Kitchen Shop, a kitchen supply store. Its the splurgy place. Theyve got copper pots and knives and kettles that looks so fancy. Ill look for whatever I can afford.

Then we swing around the corner to Johns Water Ice. I always have the same conversation with them: I say, Once upon a time I had a flavor called Tutti Frutti here, and they say No, such a flavor never existed. I describe it, and theyre like, Well, would you like a mixed cherry and pineapple? And then I have it, and its amazing.

6:30 p.m.

For dinner we go to Marrakesh. Were walking, we have not taken a taxi. If the bus has gone by, we popped on it, but we dont wait for it.

This is either with an old friend who you need to spend hours catching up with, or date night. Its all covered in blankets, and its candle-lit. Its very romantic and magical in there. Youre leaning against pillows, you might be sitting on the floor.

They have a set menu, its Moroccan food. The dish I remember most is the BStella: its kind of like scrambled eggs and very finely diced chicken inside a flaky pastry thats got sugar on top, so its sweet and salty.

You just gab the night away as they bring you food.

9 p.m.

For our next stop, we are going to rely on the bus. Its just too far to walk at this point.

We go to Taller Puertorriqueno, the Puerto Rican culture workshop in North Philly. They have literary and musical events there. Maybe they have a Nuyorican author in town, or a Philly-Rican poet reading their work.

They also have an in-house bookstore called Julia de Burgos Bookstore. Its fantastic: they have English books, Spanish books, and local artworks and jewelry.

11 p.m.

Its way past my bedtime. I catch an Uber, or drive home.
Ali Furmall of Spokane, Washington displays the four pennies she got from the press machines in the Independence Visitor Center. Read more

A wheel cranks on the machine at the Independence Visitor Center, slowing with every turn until: CLINK! A reward drops out the bottom waiting to be collected.

Its a familiar, elongated penny. In its new form, Honest Abes head is swapped for an illustration of Rocky  naturally.

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Philadelphia  along with other cities with tourist draws nationwide  is peppered with old-school penny press machines, allowing visitors to mark a noteworthy trip with an inexpensive souvenir. Its a tried-and-true practice that could be in peril now that the U.S. Treasury has ended penny production.

After a 232-year run, the government announced it was ending penny production because of its eroded value and the rise of digital payment systems. A final batch was struck this week at the Philadelphia Mint.

 READ MORE: The last penny: U.S. Treasurer ends copper-clad cents in Philly Mint visit after 232-year run

Dating back more than a century, penny press machines can be found in museums, at visitor centers, at zoos, and on boardwalks, usually costing only a dollar for a kitschy souvenir. The first elongated souvenir coins in the United States date to the 1893 Worlds Columbian Exposition, with four designs to commemorate the event.

Old Citys Independence Visitor Center and a handful of other historic locations across town continue to offer machines to press those pennies into something new and beautiful.

The machines are a hit because theyre interactive, iconic, and adaptable with different settings, visitor center spokesperson Maita Soukup said. We are hopeful the coin press will continue bringing joy and cranking out travel memories in this new post-penny world, she said.

The visitor center has two machines and eight designs, including Rocky, the LOVE sculpture, Ben Franklin, and the Liberty Bell.

Ali Furmall stopped by Thursday afternoon while visiting Philly from Spokane, Wash. She and her husband casually collect the pennies when they travel. She opted for a design with the logo of Reading Terminal Market, one of her favorite destinations during their stay.

I have a couple of pennies with national park themes that I like a lot, she said. I generally prefer iconic landscapes or landforms.

As for the discontinuation of penny production, Furmall shook off any concerns.

Im not sure that pennies are so necessary for commerce, she said. So these machines might become the primary way theyre used.

Enthusiasts say they do not expect penny pressing to end entirely  just for it to change.

The future of penny presses is just getting started, said Albert Guerrero. Alongside his wife, Amy, he co-owns Pennybandz, a pressed penny company that sells machines as well as accessories  like wearables and journals  to hold pressed pennies. We truly believe the retirement of the penny wont mark the end of pressed coins.

Stu Hockstein, the administrator behind PennyPresses.net  a website for pressed penny collectors and lovers that documents all things related to the elongated coins  tends to agree. His website includes a map documenting more than 3,300 machines nationwide along with features like a Penny Pals trading service.

In Philly, some of the machine locations mentioned on the PennyPresses.net map include the Philadelphia Zoo, the Betsy Ross House, and the Franklin Institute.

Hockstein says the eventual elimination of penny production was inevitable, citing the coins high cost to mint.

Well, it finally happened, he said. As for how it affects the future of penny machines, he says its twofold.

First off, it will take quite some time for pennies to go away entirely.

It will take 20 to 30 years for pennies to be removed from circulation, Hockstein said. But more importantly, the pressed penny machine manufacturers have been moving away from a business model that involves the customer placing their own pennies in the machines.

Over the years, modern penny press machines have started coming pre-loaded with their own pennies or blanks (called slugs), and accepting paper bills, credit cards, or tap-to-pay. That means no more fishing around the bottom of your purse for a penny covered in lint.

You can see examples of those machines at the very place where the U.S. Mint started (back in 1793) and ended making pennies this week. The mints gift shop includes a pressed penny machine with four designs and provided pennies. It costs a dollar.

Guerrero, of PennyBandz, says that while almost 300 billion actual pennies are still in circulation, the change will give companies like his time to upgrade the quality of and access to blanks. Right now, coin-operated machines that require a penny cost businesses less than ones with upgraded tech that can accept a dollar bill or credit card.

When that time eventually comes, were already prepared to offer beautiful copper blanks that press just as well, if not better, and give that same satisfying collectible experience, he said.

As older penny press machines fall into disrepair, Hockstein says, they will likely be replaced with newer models that include blanks. In short: Although pennies may eventually be going away, the hobby is here to stay.

And you know what they say: Every penny counts.
People protest Saturday at the Devon Tesla dealership in response to the company's shareholders awarding Elon Musk more than a trillion dollars. Read more

Why does anybody deserve a trillion dollars?

That was the attitude Saturday morning outside a Tesla dealership off Route 30 in Devon, where about 35 people huddled on a grassy strip to protest the emergence of trillionaires, tyranny, authoritarianism, and slashes to social safety nets.

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The demonstration, a weekly occurrence in the suburb about 15 miles west of Philadelphia, coincided with No Trillionaires Day, a nationwide mobilization lashing out at a recent deal poised to make Tesla CEO Elon Musk the worlds first trillionaire.

 READ MORE: Musk could become historys first trillionaire as Tesla shareholders approve giant pay package

Its appalling, said Tom Gibbons, 71, a regular of the Devon demonstration. Whats the point of having that much money? Its just greed.

The deal approved by Tesla shareholders earlier this month came amid a rocky year for the electric carmaker, with debate about Musks management record and discourse over whether anyone deserves such unprecedented wealth. Even the pope lamented the widening gap between the middle class and modern robber barons.

People are starving or really having a hard time just meeting their basic economic needs, Gibbons said, and theres somebody who has more money than some countries.

Its a perfect illustration of inequality.

The #TeslaTakedown protests started across the country earlier this year  a response to Musk giving a stiff-arm, apparent Nazi salute at an inauguration event for President Donald Trump, his prominence in the White House, and leadership of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

What Musk did to the country is horrible, and there needs to be consequences for that behavior, Lynn Hogben, 70, said. Hogben sported an Oust Elon pin and a Dont Buy Swasticars sign.

Since Musks exit from DOGE and his public fallout with Trump, the movement in Devon has fluctuated in size and messaging: At one event, the headcount totaled more than 400; the average week draws 30 to 40 people, typically older, from across the collar counties.

From 11 a.m. to noon  sharp  on Saturday, participants held up posters objecting to reductions of the countrys largest food assistance program, Trumps immigration crackdown, and threats to free speech, and demanding the release of Justice Department files on Jeffrey Epstein. (A trove of Epsteins emails were released by congressional Democrats earlier this week, some of which mention Trump.)

The hour-long demonstration drew honks of support, the occasional fist pump, thumbs-up, or middle finger, from drivers on the areas busy thruway.

For his part, Musk has largely dismissed the protests at Tesla dealerships, suggesting  without providing evidence  that protesters were being paid for their rabble-rousing.

But the sense of empowerment keeps the regular players coming back, week after week, said de facto leaders Janet Gilbert and Cynthia Sherbin.

It shows people who go past that we arent just lying down and taking it, Gilbert said. They see there is resistance.
Sen. John Fetterman's latest health scare comes three years after he recovered from a near-fatal stroke. Read more

Sen. John Fetterman was discharged from a hospital in Pittsburgh on Saturday after experiencing a heart problem that caused him to fall on a walk near his home in Braddock.

Fetterman posted a photo of himself to social media platform X on Saturday afternoon, showing his bruised  but smiling  face.

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20 stitches later and a full recovery, Im back home with @giselefetterman and the kids. Im overwhelmed + profoundly grateful for all the well-wishes, Fetterman wrote in the post.

He thanked University of Pittsburgh Medical Center for the incredible medical care that put me back together.

Fetterman fell to the ground while walking near his home in Braddock after feeling lightheaded due to a ventricular fibrillation flare-up, according to a Thursday statement from an unnamed spokesperson on Fettermans X account. Fetterman hit his face, sustaining minor injuries, according to the statement.

Its the latest in a string of serious health incidents that have marked the Democratic senators time in the public eye. The fall comes three years after he recovered from a near-fatal stroke, just days before he won the 2022 Senate primary, which was caused by a blood clot that had blocked a major artery in his brain.

Ventricular fibrillation is the most severe form of arrhythmia  an abnormal heart rhythm  and the most common cause of sudden cardiac death.

The spokesperson said Fetterman was brought to a Pittsburgh hospital out of an abundance of caution and was doing well and receiving routine observation at the hospital. He decided to stay in the hospital so doctors can fine-tune his medication regimen, the statement said.

If you thought my face looked bad before, wait until you see it now! joked Fetterman, according to the statement.

Fetterman could have been assisted by a defibrillator he had implanted after his 2022 stroke, doctors who specialize in heart conditions but were not involved in the senators care told The Inquirer.

Defibrillators work by detecting abnormal heartbeats, and provide an electrical shock to set the heart pumping normally again. Fettermans was implanted after his stroke to treat cardiomyopathy, a condition where the ventricles  the lower chambers of the heart that pump blood to the rest of the body  are weakened or scarred.

People with cardiomyopathy are at a higher risk for ventricular fibrillation.

Fettermans office did not say whether his defibrillator activated during his episode of ventricular fibrillation and have not specified whether he lost consciousness.

But sustaining facial injuries in a fall, as the photo Fetterman posted clearly shows he did, could indicate a loss of consciousness so swift that a person is not able to brace themselves, Joshua Cooper, director of cardiac electrophysiology at Temple University Hospital in North Philadelphia, told The Inquirer earlier this week. Cooper is not personally treating Fetterman.

Politicians across the aisle flooded Fetterman with warm wishes following the news of his fall and hospitalization. Sen. Dave McCormick, a Pennsylvania Republican, told a crowd at a Veterans Day event on Friday that Fetterman is a great force of good for the Democratic Party, a great commonsense vote for Pennsylvania.

Fetterman has a particular willingness to break with his party and work across the aisle.

The same week as his fall, Fetterman was one of eight members of the Senate Democratic caucus who voted with Republicans to end the federal government shutdown.

The busy week also coincided with the release of his new book Unfettered, which reveals details of his struggles with his physical and mental health. Fetterman received inpatient treatment for six weeks for major depression beginning in February 2023, shortly after he began his term.

Once, as I lay in bed, I asked myself, What would you do if there were a pill on the nightstand you could take and not wake up? he wrote while detailing his depression in the months leading up to the start of his term. I would have taken it.

Fetterman also discussed his distaste for the idea that lawmakers should always vote with their party.

We need to get away from the progressive and liberal notion that everything the Democrats do is right and above reproach and everything the Republicans do is wrong and evil, he said. We need to start talking to one another.

McCormick and Fetterman have taken a friendly tone with one another and joined forces like on a resolution condemning antisemitism.

In the spirit of Fettermans sense of humor, McCormick joked on Friday about the timing of the fall coming so soon after Fettermans book launch.

I said to him, youre shameless, you will do anything to sell books man, he joked.
Alibaba Group Holding has slashed charges for its biggest artificial intelligence model by as much as half, triggering speculation of another price war in China's highly competitive AI market.

Qwen3-Max, the first trillion-parameter model from Alibaba Cloud, was one of the company's most expensive models on its release in September, with tiered pricing that charged a minimum of US$0.861 per million input tokens and US$3.441 per million output tokens for application programming interface (API) users.

Alibaba Cloud is the AI and cloud services unit of Hangzhou-based Alibaba, owner of the South China Morning Post.

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

On Thursday, the company reduced prices by almost 50 per cent across the different tiers of usage for the model on its official cloud services platform for domestic users, with the minimum price falling to US$0.459 per million input tokens and US$1.836 per million output tokens.

A further discount of 50 per cent was offered for batch API calls, where tasks are executed during non-peak hours.

Qwen-3 Max recently topped a high-profile cryptocurrency investment competition among six leading US and Chinese models with the highest returns.

The pricing strategy reflects heightened competition in China's foundational model market, following recent releases from high-profile start-ups - including Moonshot AI, Zhipu AI and MiniMax - each of which touted their latest model's industry-leading performance and cost efficiency.

Moonshot AI's open-source Kimi K2 Thinking outperforms closed-source models GPT-5 from OpenAI and Anthropic's Claude Sonnet 4.5 in several benchmarks. Photo: Shutterstock alt=Moonshot AI's open-source Kimi K2 Thinking outperforms closed-source models GPT-5 from OpenAI and Anthropic's Claude Sonnet 4.5 in several benchmarks. Photo: Shutterstock>

China's AI industry has seen several price wars in recent years. The so-called hundred models war has been followed by growing competition in specific markets such as coding.

Volcano Engine, the cloud unit of TikTok owner ByteDance, this week launched a new coding agent priced at just 9.90 yuan (US$1.30) for the first month of subscription.

That aligned with recent sales techniques adopted by Chinese AI firms to stand out in a crowded field. On Tuesday, Alibaba-backed Moonshot AI, whose latest Kimi K2 Thinking model has made waves globally, introduced an online campaign that allows new subscribers to pay as little as 0.99 yuan in the first month of use.
A brief halt was ordered late Friday afternoon to incoming flights at Philadelphia International Airport because a ship in the Delaware River was obstructing an approach to a runway, officials said.

The ground stop, ordered by the Federal Aviation Administration, was lifted around 5:30 p.m., said airport spokesperson Heather Redfern.

An advisory from the FAA was issued shortly before 4:30 p.m. first reporting the ground stop due to an obstruction caused by a water vessel.

Redfern said a tugboat moved the ship up the river and the ground stop was ended.

Flights leaving the airport were unaffected, she said.
The Seeing Eye volunteers from five different clubs across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware took 46 puppies on an exposure outing to the Philadelphia International Airport. The last stop for the puppies was the baggage claim area after successfully deplaning and walking through the terminal, where Quest (right), a 5-month-old yellow lab, stops to rest. Read more

Walking down the concourse at Philadelphia International Airport Saturday morning, Kym Smythe of Bear, Del., imagined what the experience must be like for Atlas, the 12-week old Labrador retriever at her side  a dog she is raising to serve people who are blind.

Smythe, 62, pointed to windows, passing vehicles outside, a small bird that had gotten inside, and the shine of the concourse walkway, all things that can overwhelm a dog. And then, she said, imagine what a dogs sensitive nose must smell at an airport.

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Like, if we smell pretzels, Smythe said, pointing to a pretzel stand, they smell yeast and wheat.

Travelers smiled, laughed, and took photos as the dozens of golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, golden Labs, and German shepherds tugged their way toward Terminal E.

The dogs were at the airport as part of a training program with the The Seeing Eye, a nonprofit that pairs the pups with visually impaired people. The airport experience is intended to acclimate the puppies to the busy environment theyd likely have to navigate as Seeing Eye dogs.

Atlas, a small white puppy with adorably oversized paws, was still learning to walk on a lead, Smythe said. The appropriate amount of pull on the lead, along with having an appropriate pace, are both essential components of being a good service dog.

They learn to make choices, Smythe said. Thats important, she explained, because service dogs must eventually develop intelligent disobedience, an essential concept for animals charged with protecting people who cannot see.

We need our dogs to be confident enough that they obey most of the time, but they can decide when a situation is dangerous, Smythe said.

Lauren Christie, director of canine development at The Seeing Eye, said theres still a long road of training ahead for the dogs.

Christie, who lives near the nonprofits training center in Morristown, N.J., said geneticists at The Seeing Eye bred the dogs with their future careers in mind, so before theyre even born, theyre already on their journey to being a Seeing Eye dog.

At eight weeks, the dogs are placed with a volunteer puppy raiser like Smythe. The goal at this point isnt to train them to work with visually impaired people. Rather, its to socialize them and get them used to a wide range of experiences.

The puppy raisers are such an essential part of training good Seeing Eye dogs, Christie said.

At about 14 months old, theyll go to Morristown to be trained, Christie said. Dogs that dont pass the course are set up for adoption. Those that do pass are matched with a visually impaired person based on that persons lifestyle, where they live, and other factors.

After about eight to 10 years, each dog retires at the discretion of its owner, Christie said. Their owners often keep them, though the person may give the dog to a family member or to The Seeing Eye.

Its a program thats improved the lives of innumerable people who are blind or visually impaired as well as the volunteers who help prepare them for the work.

Anne Marie Barford, 77, has trained 15 dogs, including Twila, the 9-month-old golden retriever at her side. She is very curious, Barford said. Shes very loving, obedient, very friendly.

These are good signs, Barford said. Seeing Eye dogs need to be independent, curious, and interested in their surroundings. The way Twila pulls on the lead is encouraging, Barford added.

We try to expose them to lots of different situations, so that theyre not afraid, Barford said. For Twila, that includes being an honorary congregant at Barfords church, Immaculate Conception in Jenkintown, where everyone knows her.

The volunteer work is meaningful, Barford said, since shes ultimately helping another person by raising a dog. The Seeing Eye pays for food and medical costs. And, the dogs are great companions.

After a nice long walk Saturday at the airport, the dogs and their humans reached their destination: a Frontier Airlines jet set aside for the experience.

Along with their handlers, the dogs boarded the jet while flight attendants looked on, and some of the volunteers joked that they were headed to Cancun, Mexico.

They werent; the jet wasnt going anywhere. But according to volunteer Jackie Brennan Barbeau, a junior in University of Delawares pre-veterinary program, the whole experience served an important purpose: The next time the dogs board a plane, itll likely be after theyve been paired with their new companions.

Winston is doing spectacularly, she said of her 3-month-old black Lab, who had situated himself under her seat. Hes been handling all the people really well.

Winston is the third dog Brennan Barbeau has raised. She said the university offers its students chances to raise a dog.

For others who may be curious about raising a service dog, Christie at The Seeing Eye said no experience is required to enter the puppy-raising program.

Smythe, who by this point was holding young Atlas in her arms, said its a rewarding experience for anyone who likes dogs.

It really is a ton of fun, Smythe said. Each one of them holds a place in our hearts.
On the first day of his second term, President Donald Trump signed an executive order pardoning about 1,500 defendants charged in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Read more

When historians conduct a full accounting of Donald Trumps corrupt presidency, a hallmark will be how he rewarded cronies and punished perceived foes.

Trump began exploiting the pardon power during his first term when he freed several sleazy advisers, including Paul Manafort, Steve Bannon, Michael Flynn, and Roger Stone. There were even allegations of efforts to sell pardons and charge fees to get clemency requests in front of Trump.

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But Trumps pardon abuse has reached new lows in his second term. On the first day back in office earlier this year, he pardoned some 1,500 supporters who stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

Just as the government shutdown ended, Trump pardoned dozens of allies accused of trying to overturn the 2020 election, including former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows and personal attorney Rudy Giuliani.

In between, Trump has pardoned political allies, celebrities, corrupt politicians, white-collar crooks, and donors. The pardon spree is part of his authoritarian playbook.

U.S. Department of Justice guidelines call for people seeking pardons to wait five years after release from prison, show remorse, evidence of rehabilitation, and file a petition through the Office of the Pardon Attorney.

Trump, also a convicted felon, has largely ignored that process. In October, he commuted the seven-year prison sentence handed down to disgraced former Rep. George Santos (R., N.Y.), who had served just three months.

Perhaps the most brazen abuse involves pardons given to murky cryptocurrency operators who have benefited him politically and financially.

Ross Ulbricht, a Bitcoin pioneer sentenced to life in prison after creating the largest online drug marketplace, was pardoned to fulfill a campaign promise to libertarians and crypto holders who admired him for creating an illegal drug market.

In March, Trump pardoned three founders of BitMEX, a global cryptocurrency exchange, who pleaded guilty to effectively using the platform to launder money.

Last month, Trump pardoned Changpeng Zhao, a billionaire founder of Binance, another cryptocurrency exchange, who pleaded guilty to money-laundering violations in 2023. Zhaos company reached a deal with the Trump familys crypto venture that has generated billions of dollars in paper profits.

Rep. Maxine Waters (D., Calif.) called the pardon a blatant example of pay-to-play corruption.

All presidents  starting with George Washington  have issued pardons, including controversial ones. Joe Biden pardoned his son, and Bill Clinton pardoned his brother. George H.W. Bush pardoned six Reagan administration officials involved in the Iran-Contra scandal, and Gerald Ford famously pardoned Richard Nixon for his role in Watergate.

Republicans considered impeaching Clinton after he pardoned a fugitive financier whose ex-wife donated to the Democratic National Committee. Clinton at least detailed his reasoning for the pardon, even if many did not buy it.

The presidential pardon power was designed to correct miscarriages of justice, prosecutorial overreach, excessive sentencing, and show mercy.

But Trump has made a mockery of the system by rewarding scores of allies, and then using the Justice Department to go after perceived enemies.

He essentially called for federal prosecutors to indict former FBI director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James for their roles in investigating him. He also suggested investigating Sen. Adam Schiff (D., Calif.), who oversaw Trumps first impeachment and served on the House committee investigating the insurrection on Jan. 6.

The score settling is part of a broader effort to rewrite history surrounding Jan. 6. Trump pardoned several lawyers who promoted lies about the 2020 election, including Sidney Powell, Jenna Ellis, John Eastman, and Kenneth Chesebro.

Giuliani, a lead election denier, was disbarred from practicing law in Washington, D.C., and New York last year, and ordered to pay $148 million to two Georgia poll workers whom he falsely accused of trying to steal the election.

As a reward, Trump announced plans to give Giuliani the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Tucked inside the spending bill to end the shutdown was a provision to reward GOP lawmakers involved in helping to overturn the 2020 election by allowing them to sue the federal government for as much as $500,000 over special counsel Jack Smiths lawful search of their phone records.

Separately, Trump wants to be reimbursed $230 million for legal fees surrounding his four criminal indictments.

In all, Trumps pardons have cost taxpayers and victims more than $1.3 billion in restitution that was supposed to be paid back.

By rewarding those who backed the 2020 lies, Trump is also laying the groundwork for support in overturning future elections or denying outcomes.

By rewarding those who backed the 2020 lies, Trump is also laying the groundwork for support in overturning future elections or denying outcomes.

Freeing the Jan. 6 insurrectionists and other allies sent a clear message: Those who commit crimes for Trump will not face accountability.

Among the insurrectionists set free were dozens who assaulted law enforcement officers and members linked to the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, extremist groups that planned part of the attack.

Some insurrectionists had prior criminal records ranging from rape to manslaughter to drug offenses, while others quickly ran into new legal trouble.

One man was recently charged with threatening to kill House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D., N.Y.). Others were rearrested on a variety of charges, including soliciting a minor, killing a person while drunk driving, illegal gun possession, burglary, and home invasion.

Its no surprise that a lawless president aids and abets lawbreakers. But Trumps unchecked pardon power is fueling his drive to dictatorship.
At last, Gov. Josh Shapiro and Pennsylvania lawmakers have approved a long-overdue $50.1 billion state budget, which shutters a key climate initiative, increases public school funding, and includes no tax hikes.

But additional money for public transit is noticeably absent.

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Thats because lawmakers in Pennsylvanias divided legislature failed to reach an agreement on a long-term funding solution for mass transit as SEPTA began to descend into what the agency called a death spiral. And so Democrats removed it from budget negotiations in September. Instead, Shapiro approved a short-term funding plan for the agency  his third in the last two years in office.

Scott Sauer, SEPTAs general manager, said in a statement this week that while the agency knew mass transit funding was unlikely to be included in the state budget, it was still disappointing.

Public transit advocates and riders who spoke to The Inquirer are frustrated with the lack of a long-term deal for public transit, which affects not only major cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh but also transit systems in rural, GOP-controlled districts that are also experiencing service cuts or fare increases.

Before Shapiro approved the short-term funding plan, SEPTA was in the beginning stages of enacting vast and painful service cuts for trains and buses that riders in the Philadelphia region rely on.

Here is why SEPTA funding is not included in the 2025-26 state budget and what some loyal riders are saying:

Why is there no SEPTA funding in the state budget?

Democrats removed mass transit funding from budget negotiations after it became clear that Senate Republicans would not budge on a deal and a judge ordered the reversal of service cuts.

A Common Pleas Court judge ruled that SEPTA had to roll back the service reductions, following a lawsuit that alleged the cuts disproportionately hurt marginalized communities. Required to restore service with no additional funding to make up a $213 million budget deficit, leaders felt like their hands were tied.

At that point, Shapiro told SEPTA to make a one-time request to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for state capital funds to hold the authority over for two years. SEPTA received $394 million, shifting state capital funds allocated for future projects to pay for operating costs.

Gabby Scher, 33, has been riding SEPTA for most of her life  the Broad Street Line, the El, but mostly the bus.

Scher, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, said she  like many other SEPTA riders  has encountered frequent bus delays and cancellations. And the agency having to use capital funds to survive, instead of lawmakers reaching a long-term solution, is concerning, Scher said, noting she would want to see the state replenish the funds.

Its pretty wild to me, to be honest, Scher said. So if we do get this permanent funding solution from the state, then they could actually make these upgrades, and the system could, overall, be working a lot better.

SEPTA leadership said in early September that, while not ideal, the funding arrangement was the best possible solution given the stalemate.

Sauer said in a formal request letter at the time: We are faced with no other option than to request this waiver.

How did we get here?

Basically, because Democrats and Republicans in the divided state legislature were not able to reach an agreement.

House Democrats, especially in areas where constituents rely on SEPTA, pushed for a long-term funding plan to be included in the budget, but Senate Republicans saw it as a waste of money. GOP senators did not want to give further state funding to an agency they felt lacked accountability and needed safety improvements  something SEPTA has worked to address, including through a clampdown on fare evasions.

The issue also further widened a supposed divide between Philadelphia and rural Pennsylvania.

SEPTA currently receives $1 billion from the state annually, 67% of its operating budget, but without state support the agency implemented massive service cuts in August, disrupting Pennsylvanians ability to get to work, go to school, or go about their day-to-day lives.

James Kemp, 29, a software engineer who lives in East Passyunk, is a longtime SEPTA rider and said he isnt sure why providing adequate transportation for Pennsylvanians became such a partisan subject.

I dont know when sort of public transit became such an issue for the rural and Republican parts of the state, because I dont believe this was partisan ever before, Kemp said.

But riders are already looking toward next years budget negotiations and hoping that additional funding for SEPTA can become a priority. The potential for a really great system is there, according to Joe Mariani, 28, a law student and a member of SEPTAs Citizen Advisory Committee.

If we can just get the proper funding, the system could be really great, Mariani said. And the systems across Pennsylvania could be really great. And I think it would benefit everybody.

Staff writers Gillian McGoldrick and Thomas Fitzgerald contributed to this article.
(Reuters) -Apple is stepping up its succession planning efforts as it prepares for Tim Cook to step down as chief executive of the tech giant as soon as next year, the Financial Times reported on Friday.

John Ternus, Apple's senior vice president of hardware engineering, is widely seen as Cook's most likely successor, the FT reported, citing several people familiar with discussions.

Apple did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

The newspaper quoted people familiar with discussions inside the iPhone maker as saying its board and senior executives had recently intensified preparations for Cook to hand over the reins after more than 14 years.

Apple is unlikely to name a new CEO before its next earnings report in late January, which covers the critical holiday period, the FT said.

Cook became CEO in 2011 after Silicon Valley legend Steve Jobs resigned, ending his reign at the technology giant he co-founded in a garage.

(Reporting by Dheeraj Kumar and Harshita Meenaktshi in Bengaluru; Editing by William Mallard)
REMOTE and hybrid working opportunities, seen as a hiring necessity five years ago, are being rolled back, with recruiters saying there is a growing demand from companies for prospective employees to be on site. This is despite the importance of flexibility to employees.

The pushback against working from home has been growing for several years and many multinationals have demanded that their staff be in the office more often.

At the beginning of the year, Amazon sought to have all corporate employees return to the office five days a week, while TikTok also announced similar measures.

Microsoft staff will return for at least three days a week. Salesforce now mandates four days in the office.

AIB is pushing ahead with plans to change its hybrid working model, despite opposition from staff, who will be required to be in one of their office locations at least three days a week, up from two days a week.

Bank of Ireland said that staff eligible for hybrid working would be required to be in an office at least two days a week from September. It has subsequently announced a number of new hybrid hubs across the country for staff.

The debate over the benefits and downsides of hybrid working was stirred up again earlier this week

The debate over the benefits and downsides of hybrid working was stirred up again earlier this week, when billionaire businessman Denis OBrien sharply criticised hybrid working, describing it as a mistake that had resulted in a marked decline in efficiency across most of the Government.

Speaking to the Business Posts Economic Outlook Forum, OBrien said the practice was also an impediment to learning, problem solving, and improvement of outcomes.

Following the pandemic, the Government mandated public-sector employers to move to a 20% remote-working arrangement

and published a blended working policy framework to promote hybrid work options for staff.

However, in the programme for government published earlier this year, the Government committed to reviewing this framework.

The emeritus professor and chair of work and employment studies at University of Limerick, Kevin Murphy, says that all the evidence suggests that people are more productive working from home. They get at least as much done, usually more done, in less time.

If organisations want to remove hybrid working or work-from-home from their employees, they should make a realistic argument as to why it will benefit them in the long-run, Murphy says. He has yet to see the advantage.

While people can argue about the upsides and downsides of hybrid working, recruiters say that there is a growing expectation from companies for their staff to be in the office more often.

Director at recruitment firm CareerWise Mike Morrissey said there is more a demand from companies for staff "to be present" on site.

The director at recruitment firm CareerWise, Mike Morrissey, says there has been a decline in hybrid or remote working opportunities, as there is more of a demand now by companies to be present.

Staff who are on their probationary period are in the office more often than they would have been 12 months ago, Morrissey says.

Typically, after that, once people get their feet under the table, get established, get to know the business owners, get comfortable within their job, then companies begin to get a little bit more flexible.

While there is still a demand by job candidates for hybrid working options, those opportunities are fewer than they used to be, Morrissey says.

Will that continue? I would expect that it will, because of what is going on from a productivity perspective, with companies being challenged by tariffs and the cost to produce goods being a lot more to get to the US market.

So companies will have to try and reduce their cost base and one way of doing that is by asking employees to do more.

The labour market has consistently been tight for several years now, with the unemployment rate currently at 5%, which has led to an increase in wages.

Given these constraints, one might expect potential employees to have a very strong hand to play when it comes to whether they accept a job or not, particularly if they are looking for flexibility.

HOWEVER, the job market might be shifting. Job candidates are beginning to see salaries stabilise and with fewer job opportunities, particularly permanent ones, as companies seek to use more contract workers.

What companies are growing more is their contracting, because weve seen that part of our business grow significantly, Mr Morrissey says. Since the start of the year, we would have grown our contracting base by at least 16%.

Whereas, on the permanent side we would have seen a reduction in those roles being available. While some employers may be offering some flexibility, opportunities for hybrid working are falling off.

Trayc Keevans of recruitment consultancy Morgan McKinley Ireland, said there has been a "big drop in remote first opportunities, probably less than 15%" of all positions through an agency format.

Global foreign direct investment director at recruitment firm Morgan McKinley, Trayc Keevans, says hybrid and remote working options have definitely been reduced for prospective employees, particularly in the financial services and technology firms.

There has been a big drop in remote-first opportunities, probably less than 15%, I would say, of all positions being advertised and offered, certainly through an agency format, Keevans says.

The conversations were having with employers, it has been very much taken off the table for loads of reasons.

Keevans says one of the main reasons cited by employers is that in-office work is a retention tool in terms of cultural engagement.

Companies are finding it difficult to manage in a remote capacity.

Getting that engagement and loyalty that tends to retain people, it is difficult to build that virtually. It is not impossible, but it is more challenging.

But small and medium-sized companies are still using the option of hybrid working as an incentive to attract talent from bigger firms, she says.

However, Morrissey says that he hasnt really seen many companies offer hybrid or remote working as an option to differentiate them from their competitors, because there has been a concerted push by probably all companies to get people on site.

I probably would have said definitely, maybe 18 to 24 months ago, it would have been seen as a differentiator, but it is becoming less and less.

When it comes to what employees are looking for in a potential job, Keevans says flexibility is becoming more of a draw.

She says: When people are leaving a job and there is a level of flexibility, and the new job is offering less than that, that is a bigger decision point than any salary would be now, as to whether they would take it, because they are compromising the flexibility that they would already have.

Small and medium-sized companies are still using the option of hybrid working as an incentive to attract talent from bigger firms, she says.

She says that there is an onus on employers to ensure that their offices are suitable for the way people work today.

The need for employers to have invested in their office buildings is critical, if they are looking to improve their hybrid situation and have more on site, Keevans says.

The big resistance from people is the way we work now versus how we worked before. A lot more video conversations, video meetings, which in an open-plan environment isnt practical.

So if companies havent thought that through, havent got enough meeting rooms, booths, whatever it might be, it makes for a very uncomfortable work environment, she says.

We actually do get people saying they have no problem being on site for whatever number of the hybrid arrangement days, but they are finding it difficult to work in the environment that they are in.

While companies can mandate more in-office days and potentially improve their office environments to make them more of an attractive option for staff, Murphy says people are much more satisfied and committed to organisations if they are allowed to have flexibility in their work.

It removes a lot of the things about work that are the most painful: The commute to work, the office politics, having on a business suit. All of that stuff.

He says he rarely sees an organisation make a realistic argument as to the benefits of staff being in the office more often.

If there is a good case to be made, go out and make it and especially make it in terms of saying, Here is why you, as an employee, will benefit, at least in the long-run.

He adds that simply demanding people back to the office, without giving a good reason as to why, is not going to be an effective recruiting tool.

What you are going to do is drive away the best employees, who have the opportunity to go work somewhere else, Murphy says.
06.30

When Im not on tour, I get up really early at 6.30am or 7am.

I usually dont have any spare time so the key to me not feeling insane is doing a bit of exercise and replying to emails it sounds very simple but sometimes its hard to get around to these things.

Ill feed my dog and then get ready for the day. I dont eat until around midday  I dont have that breakfast thing going on.

Ill either go for a run or do some exercises like squats at home. Sometimes I dont do anything but I have figured out that it definitely improves my mood if I exercise. When Im on the tour bus, I can sleep and sleep.

11.00

If Im on tour, Ill try to stay asleep until about 11am because Ill be in my bunk and Ill be cosy.

Ill go searching for a shower if Im at a festival  its usually very unglamorous.

12.00

Catering usually starts at around 12 and youll be hoping that the food is good.

There are 15 people in my band now so I will wait around to see if anyone wants to come for food.

14.00

I might not be going on stage until 9pm so I will either sleep more or try to do some work.

At Electric Picnic, there was a tattooist, a masseuse, a makeup artist, and a hairdresser available backstage so the artists could get anything they wanted done.

Because we all had so much time, we all got tattoos. I got my dogs initials tattooed.

16.00

If Im at a festival, I like going to see other things but I am quite shy so, if people want to talk to me when Im walking around, I can find it a bit exhausting so I tend to keep myself out of the way.

The show is quite taxing these days so its important for me to be well rested before a performance.

As a performer, there can be quite a lot of hanging around. When I was younger, wed drink but Im 40 next year so Im not spending my time drinking any more.

There was a period of hardcore Uno playing and, no matter how disciplined we try to be, there is still a good bit of sitting around talking or scrolling on our phones.

Self Esteem

18.00

If Im on stage at 9pm, we will all eat at around 6pm.

Everyone I work with is so professional  a lot of them have worked in theatre and they are used to protecting their energy and spending time wisely.

Thats one of the reasons I really love theatre  its a completely different energy to being in a band.

I love performing and am really proud of this current show. I cant wait to get on a stage. Theres a real community feel and sisterhood to it all.

I need the exchange of energy with fans. This industry can be relentlessly unfair and it can be hard to remember why I do this but then I have that exchange of energy with the crowd and it heals me.

22.30

When I came off stage at Glastonbury, everyone wanted me to party  I didnt want to at all.

Im still learning what I need after this latest show but invariably you do have to come down after a performance.

That is hard because the industry provides you with so many ways to stay up if you want to but we do a bit of yoga now and we get some food and try to do all the good stuff.

In the past, it was second nature for everyone to be a little bit drunk all the time and no one told me how damaging that was. Now its all about moderation.

Self Esteem collaborated with Three on supporting the next generation of Irish artists which culminated in a special performance with emerging artist and City Stages talent, Rebecca Lane

00.00

Its nice to have a few gigs in one city at a time because you can get your bearings.

The thought of travelling from city to city is also worse than actually doing it. Ive spent most of my career in Sprinter buses and sleeping on floors so I feel blessed to have the tour bus sleeping situation I have now.

As much as I am a free spirit, I now realise that I love having all my stuff in one place. I have just moved into my own flat in London.

Im currently sleeping on a mattress on the floor but its wonderful because its my mattress on my floor and the landlord cant make me move.

Im constantly surprised that Im an adult and I have to spend my money on boring things like laundry baskets.

Before I go to sleep, Ill listen to Trixie and Katya talking about drag and another podcast called Race Chaser, where they review all the RuPauls Drag Race episodes.

I also love history so I enjoy listening to Dan Snows History Hit podcast. Basically, I cant be alone with my thoughts.
In November 2024, the film Wicked: Part One was everywhere.

Its marketing campaign centred on a publicity blitz by its stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, and many brand tie-ins.

It was just short of obnoxious, Universal chief marketing officer Michael Moses told Variety. But it worked: Made on a $150m budget, the film grossed $756.4m worldwide.

Fans are now gearing up for the release of part two, Wicked: For Good, on November 21.

For the uninitiated, Wicked is based on a long-running theatre show, itself drawn from a 1995 Gregory Maguire novel.

It explores the friendship between Glinda the Good Witch (Ariana Grande) and the Wicked Witch of the West (Cynthia Erivo).

These characters first appeared in L Frank Baums 1900 novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The 1939 film starring Judy Garland is an all-time movie classic.

Grande and Erivo had the star power and talent needed to give Wicked: Part One lift-off.

Yet Aedin Gormley, presenter of Movies and Musicals on RTE Lyric FM (Saturdays from 1-4pm), was initially nervous.

I thought, how is this going to work on screen? And they just did it so brilliantly  I was completely blown away, she says.

She believes people connect to its emotionally rich storytelling, the female friendship, incredibly catchy score, and its star power.

Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda in Wicked: For Good

Wicked: For Good is based on part two of the stage show. However, many fans feel that the second half isnt as good as the first, Gormley notes. The first half even features Wickeds big song, Defying Gravity.

Im hearing great things about the second part, but Im wondering how theyre going to keep the momentum, says Gormley.

I think if the new songs are good and if they can keep the momentum going, then great. But I think everyones going to go and see it, theres no doubt about it, because people connect with it very strongly.

How big is Wicked: For Good for Irish cinemas?

Its absolutely huge, says Alice Black, who is head of cinema at the Light House Group.

Sales of its double-bill of Wicked: Part One and Wicked: For Good are through the roof.

She says Wicked has a cross-generational appeal: Its a film you can bring anyone to.

Both Gormley and director Brian Reddin say we can trace the success of Wicked to the phenomenally successful 2015 stage musical Hamilton, written by Lin-Manuel Miranda.

 Hamilton made [musicals] cool again. Apart from The Lion King, musicals werent doing that well on Broadway, says Reddin.

But when Hamilton came in, that really revolutionised everything. The knock-on effect of that  of kids being into musicals again, and realising that you could rap about what you knew about your own life, and that musicals werent all Brigadoon.

But musicals are not cheap to make.

If youre doing a drama, you can multiply [the budget] by two if its going to be a musical, says Reddin.

Thats why most musicals are not based on fresh, untested material, with the recent exception of Emilia Perez.

Since 2020, Hollywood has faced the covid pandemic and the LA fires. As a result, risks arent easily taken.

Its so hard to get movies made, so hard to get any film into the cinemas, and so hard to get bums on seats, says Reddin.

One solution to getting music on screen is to find a famous musician with an extensive back catalogue, and make a biopic about them.

Its not so much about the story of the musician and their life, but the fact that you can litter it with all those brilliant songs, and you know people are going to go see it because of those songs, he says. Its very cynical, but thats the truth.

The 2005 Johnny Cash biopic Walk the Line won Reese Witherspoon an Oscar

MUSIC AS IP

The 2005 Johnny Cash biopic Walk the Line won Reese Witherspoon an Oscar, and arguably helped kick off the current trend.

A Complete Unknown, about Bob Dylan, came out last year, while Bruce Springsteen biopic Deliver Me From Nowhere is in cinemas now.

In recent years, weve had biopics of Elton John ( Rocketman), Freddie Mercury ( Bohemian Rhapsody), Whitney Houston ( I Wanna Dance With Somebody), Amy Winehouse ( Back to Black), and Elvis ( Elvis).

A biopic about Michael Jackson is due in 2026, while Sam Mendes is behind a four-part Beatles film that stars Paul Mescal and Saoirse Ronan as Paul and Linda McCartney.

To go back to musicals, perhaps their appeal is simple: Escapism.

The big Hollywood musicals were in the 1930s and 1940s. Why? Because of the massive depression caused by the Wall Street crash in 1929, says Reddin.

America enters a dark period, goes into the Second World War. Everythings bleak. People want something to look forward to, something to lift their spirits. And thats where the musicals thrived.

In 2025, we all want to go to Oz, says Gormley: We dont want the sepia colours  please bring us colour, and songs and dances and gorgeous people with fabulous voices singing great songs, and lots of bright lights.

But musicals cant just be all spectacle, she says: You need an emotional centre to it.

Even feel-good jukebox musical Mamma Mia! had shade as well as light.

There used to be this thing that musicals have to have a happy ending, but West Side Story has a sad ending, Fiddler on the Roof has a sad ending, and people are okay with that. You just need to be moved, says Gormley.

Black agrees, adding: Modern musicals also tend to deal with difficult topics  Wicked is about identity and that struggle as well. So I dont think theyre entirely about escapism.

ANOTHER element to the popularity of musicals and music-related films is fandom.

People were dressing up, wearing pink and green and doing their nails, says Black of Wicked: Part One screenings. The film even returned to the cinema in a sing-along version.

Where you get the phenomenal success is when something crosses over into a wider audience. Wicked definitely did that.

It wasnt just the fans, it was people who were uninitiated, who came along and then maybe became fans.

Gathering fans together to watch something has become an important part of musical release strategies for recording artists. Its really lucrative.

EVENT CINEMA

This year, Taylor Swift released a film titled The Official Release Party of a Showgirl, which included behind-the-scenes clips.

In 2023, Beyonce released the documentary concert film Renaissance: A Film by Beyonce. Ticket prices are often higher for these blink-and-youll-miss-it limited screenings.

What Black terms event cinema  which includes these films and the likes of Wicked: For Good  is huge for Irish cinemas.

When you get that excitement around something, you might also have a retail tie-in or a food and beverage tie-in, and thats always really helpful for a business, she says.

K-POP DEMON HUNTERS - When they aren't selling out stadiums, K-pop superstars Rumi, Mira and Zoey use their secret identities as badass demon hunters to protect their fans from an ever-present supernatural threat. Together, they must face their biggest enemy yet  an irresistible rival boy band of demons in disguise.

Another recent event film was KPop Demon Hunters. This animated film, which takes its cues from Koreas massively popular KPop genre, is the most-streamed Netflix release ever.

Unusually, it was brought to cinemas for a few days, and Black says tickets sold extremely well.

But fandom doesnt guarantee success. Just ask Robbie Williams.

The 2024 biopic Better Man just didnt connect with people says Black.

Taylor Swifts Showgirl film didnt do anywhere near as big numbers as her Eras tour film either.

Sometimes cashing in doesnt always work. Itll be something else that comes along and knocks our socks off, says Black.

Another unsuccessful musical was Joker: Folie a Deux, which didnt even market itself as a musical.

PHASES

Musicals go through phases of popularity.

The downturn of the classic Hollywood musical came in the mid-20th century, as American culture changed and a counter-culture emerged.

Cinema-goers turned in the 1960s to the grittier New Hollywood films like Bonnie and Clyde.

Meanwhile, Elvis jump-started music, and television became popular, both further impacting musicals.

I remember a moment when musicals in the cinema came back  it was we want this again, says Gormley.

2001 was Moulin Rouge, and 2002 was Chicago. If you look at the history of musicals, thats what happens.

Right now, musicals are holding tight. And thats good news for cinema.

The Light House is back to its pre-covid numbers, says Black: Even better than 2019, which is universally thought of as one of the best years ever in terms of cinema. The wider industry is getting back there year on year.

Big tentpole releases and event cinema like Wicked: For Good help, says Black, by reminding people how special the cinema is.

Here in Ireland, were nurturing our own musical stars of the future. Gormleys show Movies and Musicals recently broadcast live during Cork International Film Festival from MTUs Cork School of Music.

Yet musicals can be marmite.

You have to be, as an audience member, absolutely comfortable with people breaking into song, says Gormley. And some people find that hard. Some people dont.

Given the popularity of Wicked, perhaps these days the latter people are in the minority.
At eight years old, I never could have predicted that a German Second World War gas mask I stumbled upon by chance might one day find its home in my very own museum.

It was the early 80s and I had been spending my time picking potatoes in a bid to earn some much-needed pocket money. My grandad, who was a marksman, had gifted me a coin, and the hope was to turn this into a fully fledged military collection I could call my own.

He had joined the British army in 1910. The whole family knew him as being a chef. They used to joke that he was the most dangerous man in the army because he could have poisoned everyone.

Only a few months ago, I learned that he was, in fact, part of the British expeditionary force order at the Battle of 1914 in France. My grandad had sparked my interest from the beginning.

Collecting and all things military have been passions of mine for as long as I can remember. A lot of my time was spent grafting on my familys dairy farm in Drogheda. It all began when I received 20 for a tonne of potatoes.

Back then, you did anything you could to earn some pocket money, whether that meant cleaning calving pens or mucking out sheds.

My first purchase was one I still have to this day  a German Second World War gas mask.

I found it in a camping shop. However, at just eight years old, I had little idea of its historical significance.

The only reason I bought it was because I thought it looked German. We didnt have internet in those days so our only source of information was books.

As a kid, with what we now know to be dyslexia, I tended to avoid these whenever possible. There was no research involved. I just went by the eye.

Thirty years later, I discovered that the mask belonged to a German paratrooper. I know this because it was covered in cloth and paratroopers always did that so their masks didnt make noise when rattling against other items.

These artefacts were not as sought after or expensive as they are nowadays. Their popularity only hit the stratosphere thanks to movies like Saving Private Ryan.

Over the years, I continued collecting war memorabilia. While other children were playing football, I was inside organising my collection.

Joining the army was my dream as a teenager but my mother had other ideas. She felt the army was too dangerous.

Then, one day, while milking cows, I got mauled by two bulls. They nearly killed me. I always joked that if it was the army, I could have shot them.

It could have been life-threatening but, luckily, my injuries were mostly just broken ribs, which healed of their own accord.

William Sullivan, founder of the Irish Military War Museum in Starinagh, Collon, Co Louth. Photo: Barry Cronin

MY VIEWS on war changed as I got older. Ironically enough, Im actually very anti-war.

You might wonder how somebody with a military museum could possibly have this mindset.

The reality is that I am far more fascinated by military influence on technology and innovation.

For example, the ambulance was invented by Napoleons chief military surgeon, who introduced a rapid transport system for wounded soldiers.

The vehicles back then were horsedrawn but ultimately incorporated the same concept. It was these earlier models that stocked medical supplies and ensured access to swift medical treatment.

This was a dramatic departure from the previous practice, which saw medics wait until after a battle to tend to casualties.

Later on in life, I began visiting museums all over Europe. On one occasion, I touched the side of a tank, prompting security to intervene. It led me to wonder what damage my hand was going to do when the Germans couldnt even blow this thing up in the Second World War.

The experience sparked my idea to create a hands-on museum where people could experience these artefacts through touch as well as sight. In 2015, I opened my own military museum on the site of a beef farm in Collon, Co Meath.

There are people coming here who are blind and visually impaired. You hand them a gun and you can see the look of wonderment on their faces  because of the sheer weight of it and the cold steel.

Instead of being told about the artefact, they get to touch it. It has to be personal. It wouldnt be worth it for me if it wasnt. I havent had a wage since covid but thats not what its all about for me.

We are not a government-funded museum, which comes with its own challenges. For me, the place has more of a sentimental resonance.

My museum boasts thousands of military artefacts, all of which Ive been collecting since I was a child.

The gas mask I bought at the age of eight takes pride of place and still serves as a reminder of how my dream of owning a place like this all started.
In 2008, two years after she lost her husband James to cancer, Michelle Maher decided that she would make a good county councillor.

She saw so much that was wrong around her  the footpath that wouldnt take a double buggy, the bockety slide in the playground  and decided she would take action.

She wasnt sure how to go about it, so she made an appointment with her local councillor. He took one look at her, a young widow and mother of two, and ushered her and her political ambitions out the door.

His parting shot still rings in her ears: There are easier ways to make 12,000, or whatever the annual stipend was for county councillors at the time (its 31,356, plus expenses today).

It still rankles that she didnt think of the witty retorts until much later, a classic case of staircase wit, but there was an upside; something of the political ambition sown by her mother while growing up in Donegal was reignited.

She remembered that her mother, Marie McGinley, used to sit at the kitchen table, with one or two newspapers in front of her, and speak to the line-up of all-male politicians on TV.

You know, she used to say, youd think there wasnt a woman in the country with a mouth on her at all.

Mahers local authority ambitions might have been quashed, but her contribution to political life  and womens increasing participation in it  was only beginning.

She enrolled as a mature student at Maynooth University and qualified with a degree in history and politics.

Later, with encouragement from Professor Mary Murphy, she graduated with a PhD.

Maher  who uses the Dr title because so many women dont  was lecturing part time when, in 2019, she saw that Longford Womens Link was looking to recruit a programme manager to run See Her Elected (SHE), an initiative to encourage more women into politics.

This was a job that would allow her to do what that councillor had failed to do all those years ago  support women in rural Ireland to run for local election.

In academia, Michelle had studied how county councils provided a pipeline for election to the Dail, but now she had a way to look at the pipeline into county councils and show women how to take the first steps towards local power.

Shortly after SHE was set up in January 2020  with funding from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage  covid pushed the endeavour online.

That was a blessing in disguise because what was intended to be a six-county project in the Northwest Midlands became nationwide.

In the five short years since then, the results have been so impressive that the organisation was shortlisted at the Political Leadership Entrepreneur Network awards, run by the Better Politics Foundation, in Berlin last week.

Here is the story of that success in figures: In last years local elections, SHE supported 40% of the 679 female candidates who ran for election.

Of the 247 women elected  about 25% of the total  99 of them had availed of its support.

While the percentage of women elected did not increase, the numbers running were the highest in Irish history.

Now, SHE is looking ahead to the local elections of 2029 and urging women to get involved now.

Michelle Maher, Programme Manager See Her Elected and Megan Flynn Dixon, Communications, Development Manager and Elaine Duggan, Digital Media and CRM Co-ordinator

What those statistics cant communicate, however, is the infectious enthusiasm of Maher and the other members of the team, Megan Flynn Dixon, communication and development manager, and Elaine Duggan, digital media and customer relationship management coordinator.

They have facts, figures, and any number of tips to the ready  from how to get a nomination to using a wooden spoon while leafleting to stop your fingers getting chewed up by rusty letterboxes. A series of election workshops is already up and running and next week, a new guide to running in local elections will be launched.

While the SHE team makes sure nobody goes into the race with rose-tinted glasses, the support on offer is so steadfast that youd nearly consider running for office yourself.

And that, in the wake of a bruising presidential election. Why would anyone want to run for political office, local or national, when smearing the bejaysus out of the opposing candidate was considered a valid strategy by someone with the political experience of Ivan Yates, a former Fine Gael minister?

Maher was shocked by those comments, but she sees them, and the many others that target women in particular, as a spur to action rather than a block.

So there are people who think that women have no place in politics. I think that is something which would drive me, she says.

Its almost like theres a moral imperative for us to prove them wrong and to keep going because to not do anything allows people who hold that perspective to be the winners and they shouldnt be.

Rousing words for sure, but ones backed up with a series of solid practical steps designed to demystify local politics and help women to participate.

One of the first suggestions is to actually go to a council meeting. If nothing else, youll pass a series of portraits of former members  almost all male  on the way into the council chamber.

The SHE programme manager remembers seething as she passed by the wall of men, but she was also so heartened to hear another woman remark on the imbalance too.

Going to a council meeting will also show anyone interested in running for local election that councillors are just ordinary people.

Their qualifications are that they know their communities and they know their way around. You dont need degrees in engineering or transportation or logistics or social policy to be a local councillor.

One of the reasons women dont put themselves forward for local elections is that they dont see the work they do as valuable; that perception needs to change, she says.

Once, in an effort to highlight the hidden work that women do, Maher refused to replace a towel in a downstairs room of her Westmeath home to see how long it would take before either of her children, then a pre-teen and early teen, noticed.

The answer: Forever and a day.

After several weeks, it became so filthy she took it to the washing machine but didnt replace it.

Then, she left a fresh towel on top of the banister to see if it would make its way downstairs. It didnt.

She laughs at the anecdote, but, it provides a potent example of how womens work in the home and in the community is unseen and unappreciated, though it is vital, often filling the many gaps in government services.

Women arent afraid to get involved in things, Maher says.

Theyre on parents associations, theyre packing bags in supermarkets to raise funds. Theyre on residents associations, theyre helping out and theyre doing the kind of work that makes them extremely well-qualified to be county councillors.

It will still take a significant shift in attitude for the women themselves to see that, but SHE is doing all it can to facilitate the change.

Its online sessions are flexible to fit in with womens busy and unpredictable schedules.

When the team offered one at 7am, they thought there would be few takers, but several women sat in front of a Zoom camera, often in their pajamas, to carve out an hour to hear more about running for election.

There are many challenges, not least of which is the sitting incumbent who may have a link to the community going back generations.

But you dont have to have a granny in the graveyard, to use a term coined by one election watcher, to build a network and an effective campaign.

Speaking of campaigns, heres Mahers final pitch to encourage any interested women to get involved: If you want to see yourself as a county councillor in 2029, the work you do now in 2025 and into 2026 will give you a really, really solid fondation. So get your hands on the See Her Elected guide to running in the 2029 local elections and sign up for our workshops.

Wed love to see you.
Around 80,000 of the 1.2m people classified as obese in Ireland will likely avail of State-funded weight-loss injections if the drugs are approved for medical card holders or under the HSE's Drug Payment Scheme.

The HSE's national clinical lead for obesity, Professor Donal OShea, says a health technology assessment (HTA) evaluating the medical, social, ethical, and economic implications  of the weight-loss wonder-drug Mounjaro is to be published in the coming weeks, which is the precursor to making a decision about who will get it.

Currently, similar drugs are provided under public schemes for people with diabetes, but several manufacturers have been granted permission by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for them to be used for weight loss treatment.

The companies are seeking HSE reimbursement that would potentially make the drugs free for medical card holders or capped at 80 per month under the Drug Payment Scheme.

Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk applied for HSE reimbursement for its Wegovy injection, for adults and adolescents, in March 2025.

As the drug is not yet covered by the public scheme for weight-loss patients, Wegovy is listed, for the first three dosages, at 240 per month on one pharmacy website, increasing to 320 and 355 for higher dosages.

Eli Lilly has applied for HSE reimbursement for Mounjaro for both weight-loss treatment and diabetes.

With a valid prescription, several Irish pharmacies currently list Mounjaros starting price at 275 per month. This rises to as much as 595 per month for the highest required dose.

Health minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill said the application for Mounjaro under the reimbursement scheme could be approved by the end of the year.

Prof OShea told the Irish Examiner that a HTA on Mounjaro will likely limit who can initially get the injections due to the huge costs involved for the HSE of providing the treatment.

I'm concerned about the lengths people are having to go to access what are effective, safe treatments, Prof OShea said.

The HSE is about to publish its HTA on Mounjaro. This is the precursor to making a decision about who will get it.

It's likely to come in somewhere quite along the lines of its availability in the UK, which is for people with a BMI over 35, plus complications.

That will have it available to maybe 80,000 people in Ireland. The bottom line is you have 25% of the population living with obesity. That's 1.2m people.

They simply can't begin by letting it be open to everybody, just on a cost basis.

We have to make sure we start using it in, initially, the high-risk group and then widen out its use.

Prof O'Shea added that he desperately wants the treatments available, but added that it has to be brought in at a point where it wont break you financially.
Four men have been arrested following the discovery of more than 4.6m worth of herbal cannabis during an intelligence-led operation involving the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB) and Revenue Customs.

Revenue officers seized 220kg of herbal cannabis on Friday, with an estimated street value of 4.4m.
China defense ministry answers question about aircraft carrier Fujian home port location

Xinhua) 11:16, November 15, 2025

BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese military spokesperson on Friday said that PLA Navy vessels will sail wherever necessary to protect China's national interests when responding to an inquiry about the home port selection for aircraft carrier PLANS Fujian.

The Fujian, China's first aircraft carrier equipped with electromagnetic catapults, was commissioned into active service earlier this month at a naval port in the city of Sanya in southern island province of Hainan. The Sanya port has been selected as the carrier's home port.

Jiang Bin, a spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, said the home port for the Fujian was selected based on factors such as the hydrological conditions of the military port, the location and construction of supporting facilities, and the convenience for the aircraft carrier to carry out maritime combat readiness and training missions.

He reiterated that China adheres to the path of peaceful development, follows a defensive national defense policy, and that the Chinese military remains a staunch force for world peace.

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Liang Jun)
Global investors are pulling money from Asias biggest AI markets at the sharpest pace in at least seven months as lofty valuations and waning risk appetite dent confidence.

Foreigners offloaded nearly $4.6 billion each of Taiwanese and Korean equities so far this month, putting them on track for the biggest monthly outflows since March and April, respectively, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. These were the most heavily sold markets in the region.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The retreat marks the latest sign that enthusiasm over Asias spectacular artificial intelligence rally is waning as concerns over the valuation run-up and mismatched earnings expectations intensify. Fading hopes of a Federal Reserve rate cut in December has also tempered risk appetite globally.

While the long-term fundamentals of the global AI story remain intact, the recent mix of factors has triggered profit-taking and a short-term sentiment pullback, said Anna Wu, a cross-asset strategist at Van Eck Associates Corp., calling the short-term move healthy.

For months, investors bet that Asias so-called pick-and-shovel players  the chip and hardware suppliers that are heavily domiciled in the region and powering the global AI race  would stay immune to market volatility, thanks to relentless spending by tech giants.

Thats all starting to change now as investors double down on whether the AI boom has blown past reasonable levels. A wave of recent circular deals  in which buyers and sellers do business with each other  is also stoking concerns that revenues and valuations are being inflated.

Some of those concerns hit global markets as recently as last week. Koreas benchmark Kospi Index has come off its early November highs after surging 84% since April. Taiwans Taiex has also given up some gains this month.

The sentiment is hurting neighboring Japan too, with foreigners dumping $2.3 billion worth of local stocks through Nov. 7, marking their first net selling in six weeks, data from exchange operator Japan Exchange Group shows. Including futures markets, that tally rises to $7.3 billion.

Foreign fund data isnt available for Chinese stocks, though the Hang Seng Tech Index  which tracks the biggest Chinese tech firms  has extended into a technical correction territory. Recent disappointment from Tencent Holdings Ltd. and Baidu Inc. has further amplified valuation jitters.
There is something very poignant in discovering that the only surviving image of 19th-century artist Amelia Curran is a sketch  more a doodle really  drawn by her younger sister, Sarah, the writer, poet, and musician, in the fly pages of her music book.

Sarah was just eight years old when she drew her sister in side profile, with loose curls and chignon, a tiny but touching tribute to a woman who would go on to paint the best-known portrait of poet Percy Bysshe Shelley which is now in the National Portrait Gallery in London.

Closer to home, Amelia Currans Virgin and Child, a copy of one by Spanish Baroque painter Murillo, hangs in St John the Baptist Church in Blackrock, Co Dublin.

The explanatory note reads: Here hangs Amelia Currans copy of Murillos Madonna del Boeme. She was the sister of Sarah Curran, the betrothed of Robert Emmet.

HISTORY HUB If you are interested in this article then no doubt you will enjoy exploring the various history collections and content in our history hub. Check it out HERE and happy reading

In Rome, the memorial to her in St Isidores Franciscan Church remembers her as the most talented and virtuous daughter of John Philpot Curran, a true patriot [who] fearlessly pleaded the cause of his country.

Murillo's Virgin and Child in Blackrock Church in Dublin. Picture: courtesy of Laura McKenna

We do, however, get a sense of the woman herself from the man who commissioned it a few days after her death in September 1847, Lord Cloncurry.

She was the most witty and agreeable woman I ever knew, full of talent and kindness; a musician, a painter and a writer. I loved and respected her sincerely, he wrote in a letter asking the famous Irish sculptor John Hogan to honour her in marble.

While her father looms large in the inscription  it was the 19th century, after all  Hogan has included a harp, a palette, and brushes and a sheaf of papers, testament to the many talents of this overlooked Curran sister.

Like Sarah, her more famous sister, if she is mentioned at all, it is nearly always in relation to the men in her life or because of her connection to the Shelley family, but she deserves recognition in her own right.

When she moved to London in the early 1800s, the philosopher and novelist William Godwin introduced her to his circle which included poets, writers, and artists. She moved among them, visiting art galleries and exhibitions and attending lectures.

There are tantalising references to those days; snippets that make up a very interesting whole.

In 1811, for instance, she met Aaron Burr, the former vice-president of the US, best-remembered for killing US founding father Alexander Hamilton in a duel.

He said this of her: [She has] all the genius and eloquence of her father, and the vivacity, the ingenuousness, and the sensibility of her sex and her country.

When she moved to Rome, she lived in the citys artistic centre, the via Sistina, and began to make her way as an artist by painting copies of the old masters, such as the one that survives in Dublin. She spoke fluent Italian and established a wide network that included artists and writers.

In 1819, she met Shelley, his wife Mary (author of Frankenstein) and their family. She had met the poet before in London and much earlier, briefly in Dublin, when he visited the city  and the Curran household  in 1812 on a trip to promote Catholic emancipation.

In the three months they spent in Rome, they met frequently and she painted all of their portraits, including one of their little son William who died soon afterwards of malaria.

When it was rediscovered around this time of year in 1971, the art critic Bruce Arnold described it as an important Irish painting.

If Amelia Currans work was later forgotten, it was celebrated in her lifetime.

In 1820, she met Irish novelist Sydney Owenson (Lady Morgan), author of The Wild Irish Girl, who thought her full of talent and intellect, pleasant, interesting, and original.

The reason I know all of this is because I received a stream of emails after writing about Sarah Curran in this space a few weeks ago, including one containing the happy news that she will be the subject of Laura McKennas next book.

If the author of Words to Shape My Name inhabits the world of Amelia Curran in the same way that she brought Tony Small, servant to Irish revolutionary Lord Edward Fitzgerald, back to life, it is safe to say that the Curran sisters will no longer be defined in relation to the men in their lives.

McKenna first became interested when she saw the Curran memorial at St Isidores Church in Rome where the writers brother, Fr Hugh McKenna, used to be guardian.

Amelia Curran's memorial in St Isadore's Church in Rome. Picture: Laura McKenna

We already know a little about the Curran household because the head of it, John Philpot, was  and is  celebrated as an orator, wit, and the barrister who defended many United Irishmen against corrupt judges and hostile juries, to use the words on his daughters memorial.

He might be a colossus in public life but, in private, he ran a cold, rigid and melancholy home, to quote from Sarahs description. The family home at the Priory in Rathfarnham was, of course, rocked to its core by the accidental death of Gertrude, who fell from a window when she was just 12 in 1792.

The loss, however, did nothing to soften Philpot Currans attitude when he discovered Sarahs relationship with Robert Emmet. He threw her out of the house in the same way that the great public man (and serial adulterer) had forced his wife, also Sarah, out eight years before when she got pregnant in a relationship with another man.

It is interesting to see, too, that it was Amelia who tried to protect her younger sister by throwing the secret letters she got from Emmet into the fire when British soldiers searched the family home after the failed rebellion of 1803.

Little wonder both sisters were said to have bouts of melancholy, or depression as we might call it now, yet their creativity also flourished.

Sarah went on to marry and, sadly die very young, but Amelia struck out on her own, establishing herself as an artist at a time when it was unusual, and difficult, for a woman do so.

As Laura McKenna puts it: She wanted to become a painter, but she also wanted to make her living by painting and she appears to have done so.

There were commissions, including the most famous one of Shelley which Amelia herself declared unfinished. She was on the point of burning it but Mary Shelley, by then a widow, pleaded with her not to.

One of her paintings went as far as Newfoundland and the Murillo copy now in Blackrock was bought by Lord Cloncurry, of Blackrock, who donated it to the church when it opened in 1842.

Speaking of the church, Amelia later converted to Catholicism and there are many references suggesting that St John Henry Newman, newly proclaimed a doctor of the church, gave her funeral oration. Its unlikely, though, says Laura McKenna as he was not in Rome at that time.

(On an aside, there are now 38 doctors of the church, 34 men and four women. Just saying.)

If there is one upside to the link with this famous man of the church, it is that Amelia Currans memory was kept alive.

Now, however, she is returning to the ether with a book in the pipeline. Cant wait.
Before we purchased our home eight years ago, my wife and I had agreed to purchase a new-build home on the Meath-Dublin border.

A three-bed semi-detached 118sq m for the then-market-topping-but-now-kind-of-quaint price of 315,000, it was close to schools, a walk to the busy village centre, and overlooked the towns GAA pitch. And, yet, there is one memory I carry with me of being shown around by a thoroughly nice estate agent.

And that was his description of this beautiful house as a good starter home.

Starter? Start what? Existing? Living indoors? Because I had done that successfully for many years prior. Did the house have to be assembled by ourselves, but was at a beginners level of difficulty?

I bristled at the term for a few reasons. Namely, we had scrimped and saved and lived at home with our parents for many years in order to be in a position to buy this home. In our heads, we were at a version of an optional finish line, not the starting blocks.

Obviously, we had heard the term before, but it seemed more apt for places that didnt offer an attic conversion before you moved in which would vastly increase the space or that had plugs on external walls.

Secondly, we did not see our prospective new home as an investment in anything other than ourselves and our future family. This wasnt an asset in anything more than it fulfilled a basic need, a need too many have unfulfilled.

Like most people who buy a home, we were not speculating to accumulate. We were buying a house.

Thirdly, I bristled because I never wanted to feel that we would be less than if we chose not to or couldnt afford to ever leave that home. It was and is a family home, though for various reasons we ended up buying another home elsewhere.

The term has existed in parlance forever, though its usage has seemed more judicious as the housing crisis has turned buying and owning a home into a marathon for many and an unachievable dream for many more.

Which is why it was somewhat strange to see the term starter homes used as a cornerstone of the Governments new housing plan. Launched on Thursday, Delivering Homes, Building Communities is the fourth such plan to sort housing in the last 12 years and promises 90,000 starter homes. It would be easy and, lets be frank, characteristic of me to allow my personal discomfort with the word write the plan off, but lets take a look at what the plan actually promises.

Effectively, the starter homes package envisaged by the new plan is a grouping together of the existing affordability or attainability measures  the local authority affordable purchase scheme and the first home scheme which are shared equity schemes, the help to buy scheme which gives a tax refund for first-time buyers of newly built homes of up to 30,000, and the vacant property refurbishment grant which is a payment you can get if you are turning a vacant house or building into your permanent home or a rental property.

The plan notes that these measures have already supported the purchase of around 90,000 homes, when combined, though the figures dont account for purchasers who may have used a combination. The new plan, symmetrically enough, commits to them supporting the same figure, or 15,000 a year, by the end of 2030.

So the plan in essence is to do what is being done, but more of it.

The help to buy scheme, which, research suggests, many people who avail of dont actually need, will be extended to the end of 2030 and there will be a standardisation programme across [the Governments] home ownership and cost rental measures that enables cost efficient and higher volume delivery.

This means new standards for so-called starter homes. While new standards will build on to the Department of Housings Design Manual for Quality Housing and the Land Development Agencys (LDA) Apartment Typology Booklet, the plan says that homes will be sized to reflect their starter-home nature. It adds that there will be increased affordable housing delivered by local authorities and the LDA and that the scheme will support eligible households to buy new, high-quality, starter-sized homes at upfront reduced prices, delivered via a shared equity approach.

What a starter-sized home is isnt made clear, nor is the size of the equity which the State will take in your home.

I have long been open in my belief that housing as a voting issue is a proximate one. I believe that many people think of housing as the most important political and social issue of the day until they have a home and move on to their next most pressing issue. And I have long been open in my belief that the last governments efforts at housing attainability  because stepping in to subsidise the purchase price isnt a real affordability measure  have been an attempt to play on that. Make houses gettable and you remove the pressing need for many people and, in turn, they can no longer be angry with you about housing. QED. The plan announced this week seems to have made this Government policy.

Work to ensure people can get homes, even if theyre smaller and not owned in full by the people who buy them, and call that a success which, given the context, it almost is.

But one question seems not to have been considered  if these homes are starters, that implies inherently that they are not for life. So what happens when you try to move on? In Navan, there are seven homes under an affordable purchase scheme due to begin applications in two weeks. Those wishing to purchase will have to pay a minimum of 360,000 with the council taking equity of between 5% and 17%. If you are someone whose circumstances improve and you want to move on, you must account for that percentage coming out of what you sell your house for.

If 17% of your sale price is already eaten up, how much must prices have risen by for your home to be considered the first rung on a ladder you have any chance of climbing?

The Governments idea to place its supports under an umbrella makes sense. As does a plan to increase awareness of those schemes  if theyre there to ease the burden of a bad system, they should be used. But the plan seems like it may solve one series of problems by creating another  smaller homes for people who have sacrificed and saved to buy their home for one and the inevitable controversies over equity stakes for another.

All that, and the name is bad.
There remains a persistent belief in some sectors of the United States, against all evidence to the contrary, that the Kennedy clan will come riding to the rescue and save both the Democratic Party and American democracy from itself. That a new dawn of Camelot will usher in a golden age of American prosperity, power, and equality. That Trumps dystopian world view and authoritarian creep will be replaced with a democratic Utopian ideal where diversity, equality, and inclusion are celebrated and American innovation will lead to prosperity for all and a return of the American Dream.

Somewhat surprisingly, the fringes that cling to this illusion transcend Americas fierce partisanship. The Maga crowd embraced Robert F Kennedy Jr so completely that Trump became concerned his popularity and profile would eclipse his own. And four years ago, Dallas police estimated that up to 2,000 QAnon conspiracists gathered at the site where John F Kennedy was assassinated 58 years earlier, convinced that his son John F Kennedy Jr would appear alive and well and wearing a Maga hat.

According to their reading of the QAnon runes, Kennedy Jr wasnt aboard the plane that crashed into the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Marthas Vineyard in July 1999. He was just biding his time so he could become Donald Trumps vice president when he returned to power in 2024.

They got the second part of the equation right; Trump did indeed return to power. But few Americans could have imagined in the aftermath of the January 6 insurrection that any Kennedy  even the brain-worm addled, dead-bear kidnapping, whale-head decapitating, anti-vaccine scion of Robert F Kennedy  would become Trumps health secretary.

Long before RFK Jr turned Judas on the clan, the Kennedy name was in urgent need of a rebrand. The golden era, when young, handsome, idealistic Kennedys ran the White House, the Department of Justice, and the Senate, ended tragically and abruptly. The assassinations of JFK and RFK, who seemed destined to continue his legacy, inflicted a deep psychic scar, leaving America in a state of perennial yearning for the return of its ultimate era of prosperity and promise.

Even though the Kennedy legacy has been decimated by death and tragedy, tarnished by scandal and betrayed by RFK Jr, Democratic hopes are now pinned on what they fervently hope will emerge as a new star in the Kennedy firmament.

Theyre in for a shock.

A lightweight Hamlet

Jack Schlossberg, the only grandson of Jack Kennedy, announced his intention to run for Congress this week, seeking to fill the seat that has been occupied for almost 40 years by Jerry Nadler, a veteran Democrat who, unlike most of his political peers, recognised that it was time to allow some new blood to energise the Democratic Partys sclerotic veins.

On paper, Schlossberg, 32, has everything it takes to reinvigorate the moribund Democratic brand. He has the JFK direct lineage, the Kennedy looks, the charisma, the dazzling smile, the confidence, and the smarts.

But he lacks the discipline and the filter, and any kind of message. As Zohran Mamdani, the mayor-elect of New York, has illustrated, Democrats are desperate for young, social-media savvy candidates who have a clear focus and a message that resonates.

Schlossberg thus far has skated by on the family name, flitting from soft-focus political commentator at Vogue Magazine to TikTok and Instagram influencer.

Even in this era of oversharing, Schlossberg's social media incontinence is notable, its content vacillating between the eccentric and the egocentric. He appears to post every unfiltered thought that enters his head  sometimes endearing, occasionally amusing, but overwhelmingly pointless content.

Like his cousin Robert, whom he viscerally loathes, Schlossberg likes to show off his physique. Scores of posts show him bare-chested in some form of sporting activity. Others show him in leggings and ballet tights, performing dance routines or skateboarding around New York and lip-synching to Taylor Swift. In others, he pleads for a girlfriend, or sobbingly recounts the demise of his latest romance. But mostly he trolls Maga and Trump apologists  and his favourite target is his cousin, who he has targeted with dozens of occasionally funny and invariably scathing videos.

He cheerfully quotes his mother, Caroline Schlossberg, who tells him hes "a little different" and admits hes "not for everybody".

In an era where the political trolling tent is big enough  or indiscriminate enough  to include Marjorie Taylor Greene, Laura Loomer, and Nick Fuentes, theres plenty of room for Schlossbergs offbeat musings, even if they break no new liberal ground. He has around 2m followers  no small feat, but fewer than you might expect given his brand and the access he enjoys to mainstream media. Every national media outlet positioned his decision to run for Congress in 2026 as headline news.

The main problem (apart from his online presence which conveys the musings of a privileged, self-absorbed, and shockingly immature dilettante) is that Schlossberg, who likes to quote Shakespeare, is something of a lightweight Hamlet  constantly changing his mind, contradicting himself, announcing new projects and then abruptly pulling out of them. He tearfully announces hes quitting social media, only to pop up hours later, reciting Byron while skating through Central Park.

His much-vaunted mission to crisscross all 50 states in a campervan to talk to ordinary Americans and get the truth out quickly ran out of gas.

In short, Schlossberg is running purely as a Kennedy. If he has a political platform, he hasnt shared it. Aside from occasional posts about the importance of voting and the dangers of gerrymandering, most of his political content consists of pot shots at his cousin and his Maga buddies.

'If he wasnt a Kennedy...'

Several of his relatives  including his mother  quickly discovered that the Kennedy name is enough to launch, but not to land, a career in Congress. But in politics, timing is everything. And there are some who believe that even  or especially  in a hyperkinetic news cycle, Schlossberg may have found his moment as an impudent insurgent challenging the Democratic old guard.

Schlossberg is a regular at Democratic beauty pageants when the party wants to trot out proof of life of a party suffocated by the gerontocracy and establishment figures that have controlled its ranks for decades.

If he wasnt a Kennedy, they wouldnt let him near a mic, a New York delegate remarked as we watched him take the stage at the 2024 Democratic Convention to thunderous applause.

Democrat boomers who remember the glory days of the Kennedy White House, and the Generation X crowd who recall Ted Kennedys powerful oratory and his relentless social justice crusades, would be foolish to place their hopes in this erratic repository of liberal dreams. Whether Generation Z will embrace him as the antithesis of everything they revile about Americas toxic political scene remains to be seen.

Aside from the current health secretary, attempts by half a dozen second- and third-generation Kennedys to keep the dynastic flag flying didnt survive contact with Americas brutal political battlefield. Caroline Kennedys 2009 bid for a US Senate seat was torpedoed by the New York governor  assisted by the Clintons. Voters rebuffed Jean Kennedy Townsends bid to become governor of Massachusetts, and Mark Shrivers 2002 congressional bid received a similar response.

The other Kennedy

Those who want to bet on a Kennedy resurgence would find it's best placed on Joe Kennedy III, who served four terms as a Massachusetts congressman. Effective, hardworking, and popular with his fellow Democrats, he was tipped as a future presidential candidate.

But a case of Kennedy entitlement prompted an ill-advised decision in 2020 to challenge Ed Markey, the popular Massachusetts senator, for his seat. It led to an ignominious defeat and, having yielded his safe seat in Congress, he was rescued by Biden.

His appointment as economic envoy to Northern Ireland yielded limited results, but it wasnt for lack of effort on Kennedys part. His low-key, relentlessly hard-working approach has as little in common with RFK Jrs unprincipled power grab as it has with Schlossbergs online preening. At 44, hes said to be biding his time for an opening in the Senate or Congress.

The Kennedy dynasty is the most enduring of all political brands; between 1946 and 2021, only two years passed without a Kennedy in Congress. In 2008, there were five Kennedys in elected office  three on Capitol Hill, one in Marylands lieutenant governors office, and another dominating its state legislature.

Their return to political prominence  with RFK Jrs Maga defection  wasnt what the Kennedy clan had in mind. Its unlikely Schlossberg will be the Kennedy who rehabilitates the tarnished brand, but in the rollercoaster world of American politics, anything is possible.
Donald Trump has told reporters he will still take legal action against the BBC next week, despite the British broadcaster apologising for a misleading edit of one of his speeches.

On Friday evening, the US president told reporters aboard Air Force One well sue them for anywhere between a billion and $5bn, probably sometime next week. We have to do it.

The BBC sent a personal apology to Trump on Thursday, but said there was no legal basis for him to sue the public broadcaster over a documentary his lawyers called defamatory.

The corporation rejected his demands for compensation, after lawyers for Trump threatened to sue for $1bn in damages unless the BBC issued a retraction, apologised and settled with him.

The BBC has also agreed not to show the edition of Panorama again.

Trump said he had not spoken with the British prime minister, Keir Starmer  with whom he has built a solid relationship  about the issue, but that he planned to call him this weekend.

In an interview with GB News on Friday, Trump said the edit was impossible to believe.

I made a beautiful statement, and they made it into a not beautiful statement, he said. Fake news was a great term, except its not strong enough. This is beyond fake, this is corrupt.

The BBC chair, Samir Shah, sent a personal apology on Thursday to the White House and told lawmakers the edit was an error of judgment. The following day the culture minister, Lisa Nandy, said the apology was right and necessary.

The corporation is already reeling from the resignations of its director general, Tim Davie, and the BBC News chief, Deborah Turness, which followed the splicing together of the Trump speech in an edition of Panorama last year.

The programme was broadcast a week before the US election. The spliced clip suggested that Trump told the crowd: Were going to walk down to the capitol and Ill be there with you, and we fight. We fight like hell.

The words were taken from sections of his speech almost an hour apart.

The Guardian, with Reuters and Agence France-Presse
A cache of confiscated explosives detonated inside a police station in Indian-controlled Kashmir, killing at least nine people and injuring 32 others, police said on Saturday.

The blast occurred in the Nowgam area of Srinagar, the regions main city, late on Friday when a team of forensic experts and police were examining the explosive material, said Nalin Prabhat, the regions police director-general.

He ruled out any foul play, saying it was an accident.

The dead included six police and forensic officials, two civil administrators and one civilian, authorities said. Some of the injured were in critical condition.

A veiled Kashmiri woman is stopped by an Indian police officer before being allowed to pass a temporary checkpoint near the site of the explosion (Dar Yasin/AP)

The huge blast ripped through the police station, setting it and multiple vehicles on fire.

According to the news agency Press Trust of India, small successive explosions prevented immediate rescue operations.

The police station blast came days after Mondays deadly car explosion in New Delhi, which killed at least eight people near the citys historic Red Fort.

Indian officials called it a heinous terror incident carried out by anti-national forces.

The car blast happened hours after police in Kashmir said they had dismantled a suspected militant cell operating from the disputed region, arresting at least seven people, including two doctors from Indian cities, and seizing a large quantity of bomb-making material in the city of Faridabad, near New Delhi.

Indian security agencies have since carried out a series of raids in Kashmir as part of their investigation into the car blast, questioning hundreds while detaining scores others.

Police had brought the explosive material seized in Faridabad to Kashmir as part of their investigation and were kept securely in an open area at the police station, where the investigation that led to the suspected militant cell began last month, according to Prabhat, the top officer.

Prabhat said a team of experts was taking samples for forensic investigation when the blast occurred, calling it an accidental explosion.

The blast could be heard from miles away in Srinagar, locals said. Some of the victims body parts were recovered from nearby houses, over 100 metres away from the police station. Multiple houses also suffered damage.
The system has grown very strongly and the average Australian is now retiring with somewhere between 350 to 400 thousand dollars in savings. So from that perspective, it's done an enormous job lifting standards of living and retirement and will continue to do so. The big debate that's happening here now, though, is we've done this great job of designing a system that accumulates wealth for retirement, but we don't have the availability of products or the strategies in place to help people when they retire.

And 12 percent in a year's time will be up to 12 percent of your salary is contributed into this pension plan. And that means we have a three and a half trillion dollar savings pool covering about the 20 odd million employed Australians. Now, the success of that is with rising markets, allocation to growth and equities.

Yeah, very happy to. So in Australia, we've got this extraordinarily successful pension system. Now, it's not dissimilar to the 401k system in the US, but it is universal in that if you have employment in Australia, you have a pension plan called a superannuation fund here.

But why don't you give us a little bit more detail? Tell us about the perspective of the of Australia's when it comes to their retirement savings.

People hold them in very high regard. The FSC recently did a survey. And the survey, and I'm paraphrasing here, I want to get into it, basically said that individuals want to have control over their retirement savings.

Yeah. Look, as I told you off camera or before we started, we're absolutely fascinated with taking the best and learning from other retirement systems. And the Australia system is one that is, you know, there's superannuation funds.

Blake, it is great to see you. Thanks so much for joining us on the program this morning.

Good morning, welcome back to the broadcast Retirement Network. This is BRN AM for Thursday, February 29th, 2024. Joining me now to discuss this and a lot more, Blake Briggs is the Chief Executive Officer for the Financial Services Council.

Story Continues

And we have the same demographic change going on in Australia that you do in the US or Canada, where the baby boomer generation is hitting retirement now and they need more sophisticated financial products to help them. So that's what our research really started to unpack.

Jeffrey H. Snyder, Broadcast Retirement Network

And and it's it's it's so coincidental and so interesting. You know, you we unpack these issues every day here on the network and what you're describing, the return, what we call here in the States retirement income, which is that decumulation, you're you're I wouldn't say struggling, but you're addressing that. And and I think recently the treasurer and I don't know if that's a treasurer of Australia, I would assume, came out with some ideas around a default.

Can you tell us a little bit about a proposal and what that could mean?

Blake Briggs, Financial Services Council

Yeah, so the federal treasury here, which is not dissimilar to the Janet Yellen in the UK, the secretary of the treasury. So the federal treasury here said, OK, this is a major systemic question about how we deaccumulate this large pool of savings. And so they he put out several options.

So the treasurer here, Jim Chalmers, put out several options. One of them was for the government to design a mandated product for the Australian market. So when you retire, your fund must offer a product with specific features.

Another option was that the fund itself can help guide you. So it can default you into a product unless you choose something else. And the last option is really around the value of financial advice at retirement, particularly when you have larger balances, complex tax arrangements, social security, eligibility questions thrown in.

And so what they're trying to navigate is what is the best design taking into account those various options? Now, the research we did specifically went into, OK, what do consumers want in that situation? It's probably not unusual.

There can be a disconnect between what politicians think is good for people and what the consumer actually wants for themselves. And no surprises, that came through really clearly in the research that we did. So what we found was 87 percent, so the vast majority of consumers, do not want the government telling them where to put their money in retirement.

They want access to affordable advice and information. They want options to be available. But inherently, they trust themselves to make decisions about what is best in their retirement and where they should invest the money than have a government default product or a government imposed product.

And the other interesting aspect of this as well is there's been a bit of debate where some of the superannuation funds here would like to play a more interventionist role. So they really want you to be able to go to sleep on a Friday night the day you retire, wake up Monday morning and your pension is all set up for you and you transition seamlessly to the age pension as well as the superannuation income stream. And it's a really strong pushback from consumers about that as well.

They actually want around that point that they're making retirement decisions to be engaged with their fund and have it provide them information, but they don't want the decisions to be made for them. And so that's a really interesting sentiment that came through very strongly in the research that we did.

Jeffrey H. Snyder, Broadcast Retirement Network

Yeah, and it's not indifferent to what we have here in the States. And I want to just pose back to you, you know, one size fits all sounds good. But Jeffrey Snyder, even though I'm not Australian, I'm an American, but Blake Briggs, we're two different people.

We might be close in age, but you may have a family. I may not. I may want to work a little bit longer.

You may not. So that one size fits all approach maybe isn't the best for everyone. And so when you're coming up with solutions, you want to be able to provide a cornucopia, a myriad, if you will, of solutions for people.

Blake Briggs, Financial Services Council

That's right. It goes to the significance of the financial decisions you're having to make at that point in your life. So you have you may or may not have a spouse.

They may or may not have their own savings at retirement. You probably have your family home as well, which may be the biggest asset you own. You also then have questions about any tax consequences that arise at retirement, particularly if you're selling shares that are held separately.

Then you have questions about your age pension eligibility. So there's here there's a universal minimum age pension, which is very modest. But then it tapers off depending on how much assets you have privately held.

Now, if you think through all those complexities, you really do need financial advice to help you navigate it. The average person should not be expected to be able to navigate that complexity. But a superannuation fund often doesn't know all of those things about you.

So they might know how much money you have in the super fund. They may know whether or not you're married, for example, but you don't need to provide them all that information during the course of your life. So they need to collect a lot of information about you in order to decide what the best arrangement would be.

And by that point, you're getting to personal advice, which really should be treating every household as unique and having its own financial affairs that need to be navigated. Now, one of the other problems we have here is the financial advice industry went through quite a lot of turmoil over the last 10 years, and there's been quite significant layers of regulation imposed upon it in order to try to, I suppose, get it back onto the straight and narrow. And whilst that's been successful in that the advice industry here is much more professionalised than it was a decade ago, it's also made the cost of advice in Australia very high.

So the average financial plan will cost you, you know, five, six, seven thousand dollars, and it goes up from there if you've got more complex arrangements. So the vast majority of middle income consumers can't afford personal advice here. There is a separate piece of work going on in the government in order to try to make financial advice more affordable.

But they really need to get that right before they start tackling this retirement problem on top of it.

Jeffrey H. Snyder, Broadcast Retirement Network

So I think we did a great job kind of talking about some of the challenges or things that are, I wouldn't say challenges, things that are being worked through. And there's always different points of view from policymakers. Where do you see this kind of unfolding?

Because like you mentioned, we have an ageing, you have an ageing society in Australia, we have an ageing society here in the US. These are important solutions. So where do you see things going in the next six to 12 months?

Blake Briggs, Financial Services Council

Yeah, so there are a couple of complex policy issues that the government will have to resolve in tandem with the industry that we need to deliver the solutions. Some of the big ones are the universal. They're happening all over the Western world.

So we have longevity risks to manage amongst the retired population. We have a big cohort of baby boomers moving to retirement phase and drawing down their accumulated savings. But we also have these complex things around financial markets are impossible to time.

And every every consumer like to think they'd be able to. But the data always shows that by and large, people make the wrong calls. They sell at the bottom, they buy at the top.

And if you do that in your retirement phase and you can waste a lot of your accumulated savings. So we are going to have to go through this process here of organizing, OK, how do we make financial advice more affordable and how do we get more people access to it around their retirement? But how do we also build out the suite of financial products that can help people navigate their retirement and give them the information they need to choose wisely what's in the best interest in their circumstances?

Jeffrey H. Snyder, Broadcast Retirement Network

And do here in the States, we're dealing with something called financial literacy and we just started, you know, we've got 50 states and I think a majority of them, not yet a majority, have financial literacy and financial training in high school. Maybe and a little bit in college. How about in Australia?

Is this a big deal? You know, people managing their money, maybe seeking out others with financial advice. And you talked about the reform that went on the last decade or so in Australia.

But is this acumen, learning the acumen, getting educated, understanding what's important when you're doing a budget? Is that something that Australia is also tackling?

Blake Briggs, Financial Services Council

It is. There's been a similar debate around basic standards of financial literacy for quite some time here. The problem is it's an impossible nut to crack.

And I think, you know, the flush of cash that came through all of our economies during COVID stimulus era kind of proved that a lot of people can still make very important decisions, even if they have a good level of financial literacy. And, you know, you see things like a lot of the crypto investments that went on, some of the pumping schemes that our regulator in Australia took action over, I'm sure also happened in the US. And then you also have, you know, these are complex financial products and people, you know, like to try to try to hand it some of these things.

Look. In a lot of ways, that's all OK, as long as people are aware of what they're going into and making informed decisions, then they should be allowed to invest and take risk with their money how they choose to do so. I mean, it's their savings.

Who are we to prescribe how it should happen? But then it's just that question about how to improve these base standards of understanding of some of the complex design elements and the risks that people are taking on when they move through it. Now, during your young years, that's probably OK.

You've probably got a capacity to wear out losses because, you know, you have the future potential income to earn later in life. But at retirement, it's a much more serious proposition. Because if you take unnecessary risk or if you don't understand the decisions that you're taking at that point, you don't have another decade to work or you really don't want to be right.

You want to be spending those years enjoying your life and the benefits of your hard work. And that's where some of the information that can be provided by your pension plan, government support, if it's appropriate, that's all got a role to play in these scenarios.

Jeffrey H. Snyder, Broadcast Retirement Network

Yeah. And I would liken it to, you know, when you go and buy a car, I don't need to know how the car works, but I need to be able to compare it with another car. You know, I need to look at Toyota, compare it with Volkswagen or whatever, whatever car it is to be able to make my just my, you know, I need to be I need to be an informed consumer.

Doesn't mean I need to be the person, actually the mechanic and that level, although having some people have that level of skill. But for most of us, when we buy a car, we want to know, is it going to run? Is it safe?

Does it have good gas mileage? Is it going to last for many years? And I think people need that, you know, probably need to be as informed when when selecting a financial provider or, hey, how are you going to use your retirement savings?

Because you don't want to be taking all that money out, that four hundred thousand dollars that you were talking about on average. Or I think it was about that and then going out and buying a buying a nice yacht. I mean, that's probably not a good, good, good.

Blake Briggs, Financial Services Council

What we have here, which I think is a little bit different from the US, is there is a very strict fiduciary obligation on financial advisors and other financial services companies to not steer a client towards the products manufactured by their own parent company. And so, for example, if you go to, you know, financial conglomerate A and you meet with one of their employed advisors, that advisor's obligation is to you as a client to do what is in your best financial interests. And so that obligation means they can't only choose from their own suite of products.

They actually have to look at the universe of products and they go, they have, you know, processes within business to sort through what's more likely in different circumstances. But they do have to take into account the wider universe of products when making decisions or helping guide you through that decision making. It's kind of relevant to your your car analogy, because if you go into a Holden dealership or a Ford dealership, you expect to be sold a Ford.

And so you kind of know that's coming. But if you go into a financial advisor here, you might get sold, you know, anything from a Vanguard ETF through to an actively managed fund through to insurance product. And the advisor must be basing that on your personal circumstances.

So it's a much more robust framework where consumers can have faith that their best interests are being taken, are being put in forefront in that decision making.

Jeffrey H. Snyder, Broadcast Retirement Network

Well, I hope I hope members of Congress and the Department of Labor are listening because we're going through a similar debate. I'm sure you read the papers. We're going through a similar debate here about fiduciary advice and the role.

Blake, we're going to have to leave it there. Great to talk to you. Thanks so much for joining us.

And we look forward to having you back on the program again very soon.

Blake Briggs, Financial Services Council

No, thanks for having me. I appreciate it.

Jeffrey H. Snyder, Broadcast Retirement Network

That wraps up this episode of BRNAM. Have a topic of interest, someone you think we should talk to, drop us a line. And don't forget, for all the latest curated news in lifestyle, wellness, finance, tech, so much more, all in one place.

Check out today's edition of our daily newsletter, The Morning Pulse. Want to search our archives, check out our latest content? Well, visit our website.

Hey, we're back again tomorrow with another edition of BRNAM. We'll have a very special guest. Of course, an important topic.

We always bring important content. Until then, I'm Jeff Snyder. Stay safe.

Keep on saving. And don't forget, roll with the changes. Now is your opportunity to co-create content around any topic on the FIRST Lifestyle and Wellness Network.

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This story was originally reported by TheStreet on Nov 15, 2025, where it first appeared in the Retirement section. Add TheStreet as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Amanda Blanc, chief executive of Aviva, left, with Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, at the Guildhall in London last year - Hollie Adams/Bloomberg

The chief executive of Aviva has urged Rachel Reeves not to launch a raid on salary sacrifice pension schemes.

Amanda Blanc, the boss of the investment and insurance giant, warned Treasury officials to think carefully before cutting incentives on the tax breaks offered on workplace pensions, adding that it could discourage workers from saving for their retirement.

Ms Blanc said that penalising those employers that actually contribute more to staff pensions would be bad news long-term for the UK.

The Telegraph revealed last month that the Treasury was considering trimming the tax breaks offered to people who make extra savings through their company pensions.

These salary sacrifice schemes allow workers to put money into their retirement pots before it is subject to any income tax or National Insurance.

Companies also benefit from lower employer National Insurance contributions when staff make savings through salary sacrifice, because the tax is only levied on pay left over after pension contributions.

Ms Reeves is considering capping the National Insurance relief for both staff and their employers.

Ms Blanc said the speculation around the Budget was clearly unhelpful and called on the government to think carefully before making changes.

It could make employees think about how much they may salary sacrifice, she said. If you use the governments own research, it suggests 15 million people in the UK will not have enough money to retire well.

For the UK, I dont think that changing things like that on long-term pensions is a very good thing at all.

Someone on the UK median wage of 35,000 per year who added 5pc of their wages into a pension pot through salary sacrifice, would pay an extra 210 in National Insurance if the benefit was cancelled.

A cap on tax relief of 2,000 is understood to be the most likely proposal under consideration. Such a change is expected to raise about 2bn per year for the Exchequer.

Ms Blancs comments came as Aviva reported on its third quarter performance. The insurance giant said it expected to deliver 2.2bn in operating profit this year. It added that a 100m cost-cutting programme at Direct Line had been completed three months ahead of schedule and said it now believed it could save as much as 350m following the takeover.

However, it disclosed a fall in sales in its retirement division. Shares fell by 5.5pc.

Try full access to The Telegraph free today. Unlock their award-winning website and essential news app, plus useful tools and expert guides for your money, health and holidays.
The US sanctions against Francesca Albanese are testament to her courage speaking up for the Palestinians. If international law lies buried underneath the rubble of Gaza, truth-tellers like Albanese have implacably defended basic universalist principles.

( Jacobin )  This July 9, the Trump administration targeted Francesca Albanese for sanctions. Executive Order 14203 listed the forty-eight-year-old UN special rapporteur on human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied by Israel as a specially designated national, thereby forbidding US citizens and companies to have any dealings with her. Secretary of State Marco Rubio explained, Albaneses campaign of political and economic warfare against the United States and Israel will no longer be tolerated. . . . We will always stand by our partners in their right to self-defense.

That same month, the eighth edition of Albaneses 2023 book, JAccuse, appeared. Only available in Italian, it presents her indictment of the ongoing Israeli war crimes in Gaza, leading up to the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. Its title comes from a famous 1898 newspaper article by the French novelist Emile Zola. He called for the truth above all in the case of the Jewish army captain Alfred Dreyfus, who had been falsely accused of treason. Albanese makes the same demand for the truth about todays genocide in Gaza.

Trained in international law and human rights at the University of Pisa and at the de-colonialist seedbed of Londons School of Oriental and African Studies, Albanese lived in Palestine from 2010 to 2012. She had long written extensively on the Israel-Palestine question, most notably Palestinian Refugees in International Law, together with Lex Takkenberg. The appointment to the UN Special Rapporteur position in May 2022 brought her into daily contact with the worsening situation in Gaza. She had exceptional opportunities to gain insight into the crises leading up to October 7.

International Law In JAccuse, Albanese intelligently frames the Gaza war in its proper historical context going back to the Balfour Declaration of November 1917, when the British government announced its support of a national home for the Jewish people. She focuses on the period beginning in 1948 with Israels founding  for the Palestinians, the Nakba, or their catastrophe. Another chronological focal point concerns Israels occupation of the Palestinian territories beginning in 1967. Israels sixteen-year blockade of Gaza also comes in for extended analysis as background for the current war. The book proceeds as an interview of Albanese by journalist Christian Elia. They begin by discussing terrorism. Albanese notes that there is no agreement on the meaning of this term; indeed, over 150 definitions have appeared in print. Terrorism is generally understood to be criminal or immoral violence in pursuit of political aims  but who gets to determine the rightness or wrongness of such behavior? The victors in war and politics historically have had the inside track in differentiating terrorists from freedom fighters. Albanese condemns Hamas for slaughtering innocent noncombatants and taking civilian hostages. She repeats these charges several times in the book. Avoiding the term terrorism because of its politically charged biases, Albanese evaluates the events of October 7 according to the international law enshrined in conventions adopted at Geneva and The Hague. On that basis, she condemns Hamas for slaughtering innocent noncombatants and taking civilian hostages. She repeats these charges several times in the book. By the same legal standards, Israels indiscriminate military attacks against the defenseless Palestinian civilian population in Gaza also constitute war crimes. Hamass crimes should have been prosecuted by an independent tribunal, not punished by unleashing Israeli firepower against civilians. Moreover, immediately following the Hamas attack, Israels thendefense minister, Yoav Gallant, declared that essential humanitarian aid would be cut off. This meant no electricity, food, gasoline, and water for Gazans. Israel had found itself combatting human animals, Gallant declared, and would respond accordingly. JAccuse captures the Palestinians dehumanizing existence under Israeli rule, also in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. They suffered varying degrees of torment by the government and vicious colonizers in the Israeli settlements. She quotes UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres: Hamass depredations did not come from nothing. Fifty-six years of merciless occupation prepared the way for October 7. Guterres, too, condemned Hamas for its crimes against innocent civilians, but no one should have been surprised by the inevitable explosion of resentment arising from Israels illegal occupation and its nightmare system of military checkpoints. The Palestinians manifestly lived under apartheid conditions, with Jewish citizens enjoying special laws and privileges. Two different legal systems operate in the Palestinian territories: civil jurisdiction for the settlers and soldiers but military jurisdiction for the Palestinians. Even Arab Israelis living in Israel proper do not have the same rights granted to the countrys Jewish citizens. For Albanese, there is no rational alternative to dismantling Zionist hegemony in favor of a real democracy  which would mean guaranteeing equal rights for all. Albanese took up her UN job the year before the Hamas attack. She had witnessed an alarming intensification of the frequency and brutality of military assaults by Israel. She allows the two most fanatical ministers in Benjamin Netanyahus government  Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich  to speak for themselves about their illegal activities involving the expansion of settlements and plans for outright annexation of the Palestinian territories. Israel defines its security in terms of justifying the permanent absorption and racial domination of all the land from the river Jordan to the sea. Jewish supremacism, always implicit in the Zionist project for Palestine, now presents itself unambiguously as Israels official creed. JAccuse captures the Palestinians dehumanizing existence under Israeli rule, also in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Long before the ever-expanding horrors following the Hamas attack, Gaza had been the ninth circle in the hell of Israels occupation. It had been the epicenter of the first intifada in 1987. Then came one military invasion after another punctuating the daily afflictions of the blockade. Albanese quickly brings her Gaza account up to the present, noting that in the immediate aftermath of October 7, the Israeli government arrested thousands of Palestinians without due process. They, too, should be considered hostages. Albaneses book stops there. In a postscript, philosopher Roberta De Monticelli carries the story into the early stages of the Gaza war. Gaza is no more, she writes. It is only a mass of misery and ruins. International law and the Wests vaunted stable order also lie under the rubble of Gaza, because of the failure to condemn Israel for its war crimes. She recounts the violent defamatory campaigns against Albanese in Italy. There Israel receives overwhelming support from both government and media  much as the West generally has responded to the slaughter of over sixty thousand Palestinians, most of them women and children.

Intimidation Since JAccuse was published, Albanese has been unrelenting with her reports for the UN, lectures, social media posts, and interviews calling for an immediate ceasefire and warning about the ethnic cleansing of the Palestinians in Gaza and throughout the occupied territories. In Anatomy of a Genocide, her report released on March 25, 2024, she became the first person to provide the UN with a detailed analysis of Israels intention to wipe out the Palestinians in Gaza. In a report the next year, she asserted that this genocide had continued in part because it was lucrative for business corporations, including Microsoft, Google, and Amazon. At this point, the Trump administration vented its fury against Albanese with Executive Order 14203. Sentiment in the United States halls of power had been building against her since February 2023, when eighteen members of Congress called for Albanese to be removed from her UN position because of anti-Israeli bias. In 2024, after Albaneses online declaration of support for the view that Netanyahu merited comparison with Adolf Hitler, the United States thenambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield  a Joe Biden appointee  sought her removal from office. Thomas-Greenfield had repeatedly blocked measures opposed to Israel on the grounds of its right to self-defense. The Trump administration would bring increased zeal and rhetorical force to Americas support for Israel in the UN, but Washingtons devotion to Israel remained essentially the same, whichever party was in power. Francesca Albanese became the first person to provide the UN with a detailed analysis of Israels intention to wipe out the Palestinians in Gaza. Weeks after the US sanctions against her this summer, Albanese spoke in Bari, southern Italy, where the local mayor honored her for exposing the Palestinians tragic plight. For her, the sanctions werent just a symbolic gesture. Her financial assets would be frozen, and she no longer could enter the United States to do her work at the UN. Severely interfering with her professional relationships, these measures merited comparison with the Mafias techniques of intimidation. Albanese professed herself honored and overcome by the proceedings in Bari. She then issued a warning to the international community: Palestine is asking us for help, it is showing us a future without legality. And the fact that Italy remains silent must not fool you; we are behind, we are truly the tail-end of the [colonialist and imperialist violence] which remains of the last centurys history. . . . A reawakening of conscience is required. Not just Italy but the international community must be stirred from the crisis of its morally anesthetizing double standards  one for partners and allies like Israel and another for designated enemies like Russia.

Flotilla On August 31, the Global Sumud Flotilla (sumud means steadfastness in Arabic)  eventually comprising more than forty boats  departed from Barcelona to bring humanitarian aid to Palestinians and break Israels blockade of Gaza. Albanese resolutely supported this initiative. At every opportunity, she appealed to European governments to provide protection for the flotilla and to confront Israel over its campaign of genocide in Gaza. The more than six hundred activists on board included humanitarian workers, doctors, political figures, and artists representing forty-four countries. The Israeli government denounced them as Hamas sympathizers. Israels ambassador to Italy even claimed to have proof that Hamas had been directing the flotilla all along. This proof has not yet been forthcoming. The Global Sumud Flotilla came under drone attack on September 9 in Tunisian waters. The main vessel, Family Boat, was hit, and a fire broke out. Fortunately no injuries and little damage occurred. Activist Greta Thunberg later spoke on the staircase of Tuniss municipal theater. She accused Israel of mounting the attack in order to stop the flotillas peaceful and lawful mission. Newspaper accounts of the event carried a photograph of Albanese hugging and kissing Thunberg. At 2 a.m. on the night of September 24, drones again attacked the flotilla, then off the coast of Crete. Fourteen boats suffered damage from flash-bang stun grenades and unidentified chemicals. Two people sustained minor injuries. Albanese immediately posted on X: !Alert! @gbsumudflotilla has been attacked 7 times in a short span! Boats hit with sound bombs, explosive flares, and sprayed with suspected chemicals. Radios jammed, calls for help blocked. Immediate international attention AND PROTECTION required. Hands off the Flotilla! While the Italian government supports Israel, Albanese was not alone in her condemnation. In the first of two general strikes, one million people throughout Italy demonstrated in support of Palestine and the flotilla, demanding an end to the arms trade and commercial ties with Israel. Authorities responded to the protesters by using water cannons against them. The protests also reflected a wider anger in Italy over homegrown social issues like the lack of an economic future for young people and the wealth gap between the rich and the poor. Palestine, however, provided the catalyst. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, then in New York for the UN General Assemblys discussion of Israels war in Gaza, lashed out at the organizers of the flotilla, labeling them irresponsible crisis-mongers. The right-wing Italian leader and Trump favorite criticized Israel for excesses in Gaza  but directed her anger at the flotilla activists, calling on them to end their mission. On October 1 in an NBC News interview, Albanese damned those UN member states who urged the flotilla to turn around. Instead, they should be intervening to stop Israel. They should provide protection for the flotilla and themselves break the Israeli blockade of Gaza. Most of the delegates, especially from the Global South, had shown their support for the Palestinians by not attending Netanyahus speech at the previous weeks UN General Assembly meeting or by walking out on him. Clearly, Meloni had no such moral courage. Francesca Albanese declared that the Italian government stood in violation of the countrys constitution, which expressly called for obedience to international law. That same day, at a legal conference in Milan, Albanese declared that the Italian government stood in violation of the countrys constitution, which expressly called for obedience to international law. By that requirement, Meloni should be condemning Israel, not the activists. We are witnessing, Albanese added, not only the return of the right-wing parties; it is the return of fascist attitudes, and I see it even in the way that the forces of order comport themselves with the populace, with whoever protests. That same night, the Israeli Navy intercepted and boarded the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters and arrested the activists. More protests erupted in Italy to the cry of, If they touch the Flotilla, they touch all of us; if they attack it, we block everything. The Arab News website announced that an Italian intifada had taken place. Other European countries witnessed pro-Palestinian outbursts of a similar kind, but nothing like developments in Italy.

Blocking Everything A second general strike intensified the chaos in Italy for the next three days. Blocchiamo tutto (Well block everything) became the order of the day as train tracks, port facilities, and highways were forced out of service. Vast numbers of Italians marched in processions and chanted slogans of solidarity with the people suffering in Gaza: Free Palestine, Zionist Israel: Terrorist State, We Are All Palestinians, Stop the Genocide, Free the Heroes of the Flotilla. Insults against Melonis government reverberated through the streets and piazzas of Italy. Reports about Israeli mistreatment of the flotilla detainees further inflamed the protesters in Italy as elsewhere. Far-right Israeli security minister Ben-Gvir called the activists terrorists, saying that if they thought they would receive a red carpet and trumpets, they were mistaken. They merited the harsh treatment given them in Israels Ketziot Prison, notorious for its abusive conditions. He said that it would give them pause before setting out again on such a misconceived mission. Albanese remained a constant source of controversy. On October 2, a news story erupted about an event involving Albanese on Sunday, September 28, in the northern city of Reggio Emilia. Once again, she had received a high civic honor. At the ceremony, the mayor praised Albanese for her stellar promotion of human rights. She had done noble work that deserved the highest recognition. Such proceedings ordinarily wouldnt make headlines. The mayor, however, also had said that the release of the Israeli hostages from their Hamas captivity would advance the cause of peace in the Middle East. Albanese put a hand to her face and grimaced as the mayor uttered these words about the Israeli hostages. She contradicted him: The mayor is wrong: he has said something that is not true. But I pardon him. Peace does not have conditions. The pro-Palestinian audience jeered and whistled at the mayor. Italian political and media figures furiously debated Albaneses reaction to the mayors comments about the Israeli hostages. Her defenders agree that peace should come immediately  with no preconditions about the hostages or any other issue. Opponents denounced her as blinded by a hatred for Israel, in dismissing what they called the mayors sensible plea to liberate the hostages. Albanese had also been in Reggio to present her new book, Quando il mondo dorme: Storie, parole e ferite della Palestina (While the World Sleeps: Stories, Words, and Wounds of Palestine). Her account of daily life based on the experiences of individuals who embody the tragedy of the occupied territories appeared in May 2025. This book translates into individual human terms her legal analysis of the crimes recounted in JAccuse. It quickly went through nine printings.
In October, amid the two-year anniversary of the Gaza genocide, Jewish settler attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank hit an all-time high. And they will escalate  as long as they are allowed by U.S.-led West.

New York (Special to Informed Comment; Feature)  On Thursday at dawn, Israeli squatter-settlers set fire to the Hajja Hamida Mosque in the Palestinian village of Deir Istiya in the north of the West Bank. Photographs taken at the scene showed racist, anti-Palestinian slogans sprayed on the walls of the mosque, which was damaged in the blaze. Copies of the Quran  the Islamic holy book  were also burned.

October 2025 recorded the highest monthly number of Israeli settler attacks since the UN Humanitarian office (OCHA) began documenting such incidents in 2006. Thats more than 260 attacks resulting in casualties, property damage or both  an average of eight incidents per day.

Reminiscent of the Gaza atrocities, one in every five Palestinians killed by Israeli forces in 2025 across the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, is a child.

During this olive harvest season, settler violence has reached the highest level recorded in recent years, with the injury of more than 150 Palestinians and the vandalism of over 5,700 trees.

This violence is not a fringe phenomenon. It is deliberate, systematic and escalatory. Shunning all international condemnation, it seeks to establish new facts on the ground. It is ethnic cleansing aiming at involuntary population transfer and, unless disrupted, mass atrocities.

From vigilantes to state terror

At the beginning of 2024, Zvi Sukkot, Knesset member of the Religious Zionist Party and a colleague of the self-proclaimed fascist Bezalel Smotrich, urged the government to occupy, annex, and demolish all the houses [in Gaza], and build large neighborhoods and settlements. It sounded harsh, but the zealot was consistent. He had a dream. What happened in Gaza would not stay there but spread to the West Bank.

Or by check:

Juan Cole

P. O. Box 4218,

Ann Arbor, MI 48104-2548

USA

(Remember, make the checks out to Juan Cole or they cant be cashed)

A far-right Jewish settler living illegally in the West Bank, Sukkot is a former member of The Revolt, a violent Jewish terror group, which has engaged in numerous arson attacks. The group advocates the dismantling of the Israeli state to establish the Kingdom of Israel that follows Jewish Law rather than the rule of (secular) law.

In 2010, Sukkot was arrested in an investigation of a mosque arson and expelled from the West Bank for violent anti-Palestinian attacks. He had defended Jews suspected of firebombing a Palestinian family and been arrested for alleged involvement in price tagging; that is, vandalism and violent settler attacks against Palestinians.

As of 2017, the group was still active, in what the Shin Bet internal security agency calls the second generation ofThe Revolt.

By early 2023, Sukkot had made it to the Knesset, the Israeli parliament. And after October 7, Prime Minister Netanyahu appointed him to chair the Knesset Subcommittee for Judea and Samaria (read: the West Bank).

To the settlers, Sukkot is a success story reflecting the march of extremist settlers to the Israeli institutions in the past two decades.

As a member of The Revolt, Sukkot could only firebomb a few Palestinians, mosques and churches. It wasnt efficient. Now he is in a position to shape the future of the land. He is no longer fighting those in charge. He is in charge.

How did the Messianic far-right march into institutions they once hoped to pull to pieces? Ostensibly, democratically. With the rise of the Jewish dual state, the Netanyahu cabinets have subverted the secular democratic state. The parallels are alarming. Similar trajectories broke the back of the Weimar Republic a century ago.

Ironically, the Israeli settlement policy was first developed by the Labor governments, which paved the way for the foxes to take over the henhouse.

The rise of Jewish settlements

Since the 1970s there has been a tacit collusion between the Israeli state and the settlers. It is a symbiotic system. The state takes over land, while the settlers, who seek land to further their agenda, engage in violence against Palestinians to achieve their expulsion.

Occasionally, the two cooperate directly, but the preference is to retain an arms length distance, to preserve the semblance of the rule of law. The ultimate aim of settler violence is to foster Greater Israel; that is, a Jewish-only space between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean.

A new stage ensued in 2018, when the Basic Law codified that the State views the development of Jewish settlement as a national value, and shall act to encourage and promote its establishment and strengthening. In keeping with this principle, Israel has dispossessed Palestinians in the West Bank to use their land to build new settlements and to expand existing ones.

According to international law, an occupier must not confiscate land for the needs of the occupier. So, Israel came up with the legal acrobatics of declaring instead of confiscating land. Based on a subversion of the Ottoman land law from 1858, this bizarre interpretation allowed Israel to take over 16 percent of the West Bank prior to October 7; or 500 to 5,000 dunams per year. Amid the Gaza genocide in the first half of 2024, declarations of state land shot to 24,000 dunams. In other words, while Gaza was burning, Israeli occupation authorities were rushing to take over the West Bank.

Under the labor coalition, the number of settlements grew slowly until the election triumph of the Israeli hard right in the late 1970s. Thats when Prime Minister Begin initiated a huge and purposeful settlement policy to take over the West Bank. In the process, the Jewish settler population soared from a few thousands to over half a million in the West Bank prior to October 7, 2023.



Jewish Settlers in the West Bank



Jerusalem Population

In parallel, Israeli governments have encouraged increasing Jewish settlement in Jerusalem. Since 1967, it has more than tripled to 600,000, whereas the number of Palestinians is close to 390,000. The tacit objective has been to maximize the number of Jewish settlers in the West Bank, while increasing the Jewish population in Arab East Jerusalem.

Settler violence

Following the rise of Netanyahus far-right cabinet in late 2022, the efforts to achieve Jewish supremacy in the West Bank have escalated dramatically. Taking advantage of the Gaza War, groups of violent settlers have carried out organized operations to expel Palestinian communities, through threats, intimidation, property damage, and physical assaults.

Never miss an issue of Informed Comment: Click here to subscribe to our email newsletter! Social media will pretend to let you subscribe but then use algorithms to suppress the postings and show you their ads instead. And please, if you see an essay you like, paste it into an email and share with friends.

Settler Violence Incidents



Source: author, data from OCHA (Jan 2006- Oct 2025)

Until recently, Israeli and international media have characterized instances of settler violence as rampages, which suggests violent but uncontrollable behavior, involving a large group of people. In reality, the violence has been systemic and coordinated.

After the settler violence in Huwara in February 2023, Maj. Gen. Yehuda Fuchs, head of the militarys Central Command in charge of the West Bank, described the rampage as a pogrom done by outlaws. He deliberately used the term referring to mob attacks against Jews in Eastern Europe at the turn of the 20th century. As a result, Fuchs himself was targeted for assassination by Kahanite settlers, according to Shin Bet. It wasnt the first time. In 2007, then-prime minister Ehud Olmert lashed out at settlers in Hebron, who attacked Palestinians and their property. Like some other Israeli leaders, Olmert called the attacks a pogrom, which made him the target of far-right settlers, supported by U.S. billionaires like the late casino tycoon, Sheldon Adelson.

Referring to antisemitic violence in Russia, the term pogrom is usually defined as an officially tolerated organized massacre. In this sense, the pogroms by the Jewish settlers in the West Bank are indeed reminiscent of those in Kishinev and elsewhere, as many Israelis suggest.

More than a century ago, Jews knew only too well the consequences of mobs rushing into Jewish neighborhoods while calling for Death to the Jews!

Today, Palestinians know exactly what will follow when Jewish settlers burst into Arab neighborhoods crying for the Death to the Arabs!

Settlements as a Security Burden

Ever since the 1970s, the settlers and their U.S. financiers have argued that the settlements ensure Israels security. In this view, settlers allow the residents of Tel Aviv to breathe easy because the settlements are good for national security.

In reality, the settlements are a security burden for Israel. ln the past decades, there have been no major war between Israel and its Arab neighbors. Yet, due to the Separation Wall and fragmentation of the West Bank, the line of defense that the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) is required to protect is today about five times the length it would be without the settlements.

Stunningly, before October 7, the IDF had to deploy more than half its active forces, and in crisis situations even two-thirds of them, in the West Bank. That was more than the forces allocated to guarding all other fronts combined (Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and the Jordanian border along the Arava).

Worse, these allocations had to be coupled with a large contingent required to protect the settlements. According to estimates, some 80 percent of IDF forces in the West Bank were allocated to settlement guard duty, while the only 20 percent focused on defending the borders of the pre-1967 Israel.

Furthermore, the IDF presence and operations have contributed to several major uprisings, which penalized economic prospects in Israel as well. If Israeli military presence in southern Lebanon was the architect of Hezbollah, its presence in the West Bank and Gaza has served as the midwife of Hamas.

The brutal occupation has divided Israel internally and isolated it externally. It is responsible for the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians and the genocidal atrocities in Gaza. None of this was inevitable. None of it was warranted.

And none of it could have happened without the continuous flows of arms and financing by the U.S.-led West.
Creating impactful experiences overseas

In the heart of Orvieto, Italy, a group of 40 Kansas State University students embarked on a transformative four-week journey through the lens of Italian fashion. At the helm was Kelsie Doty, a professor whose passion for mentorship and experiential learning shaped both the curriculum and the personal and professional growth of every student involved.

Doty's course, part of the K-State in Italy program, was more than a study abroad experience  it was a pilot for an applied learning experience framework designed to connect academic learning with authentic experiences.

The university has prioritized providing students with applied learning experiences  opportunities that incorporate purposeful experience, intentional observation, and critical reflection  as an imperative of the Next-Gen K-State strategic plan.

Applied learning experiences framework helps faculty build courses, experiences

Faculty mentors play a crucial role in facilitating successful applied learning experiences, and resources are available to support them in creating meaningful learning experiences for students. The Applied Learning Experiences team developed a framework that serves as a tool for learners and instructors to understand what they can expect to commit to and gain from the experiences.

The framework emphasizes that experiences are intentionally designed to develop professional, technical, personal, and interpersonal skills. These learning outcomes and competencies are supported and assessed throughout the experience.

Before the trip abroad, Doty participated in a workshop to integrate the framework into her course design.

"The implementation of the Applied Learning Experience Framework transformed my approach to FASH 499: Italian Fashion in Context by emphasizing intentionality, guidance and reflection throughout the course," Doty said. "Rather than viewing experiential activities, such as site visits, artisan demonstrations, or museum tours, as isolated events, the applied learning experiences framework encouraged students to view them as purposeful learning experiences tied to their own specific learning outcomes."

After that purposeful development, learners receive guidance from mentors  including instructors, advisors, site partners, supervisors, coordinators and other professionals  who respond regularly to engagement, support self-reflection, and promote goal setting for future learning. Mentorship in applied learning experiences is not limited to faculty; it can come from a variety of professionals who support student development.

Students benefit from mentorship

During the program, Doty had students complete weekly reflection journals. The course experience culminated in final projects that drew from the journals and connected with the students' interests in fashion, as well as their cultural, academic and career development.

She said the journal became a cornerstone of the course and a critical bridge between experience and analysis.

"The journal prompts encouraged students to articulate insights about Italian fashion history, craftsmanship, and sustainability in a way that was both analytical and personal," Doty said. "This practice deepened their engagement with the material and helped them develop the reflective habits outlined in the framework. By the end of the four weeks, the cumulative nature of the journals created a clear narrative of each student's growth."

Doty met with each student individually to discuss their ideas and help them shape their projects.

Students created portfolio-worthy projects  tangible evidence of their skills and passions that could be showcased to future employers. Some students presented their own mock-up designs of Italian fashion. One student conducted an analysis comparing fashion in Italy and Manhattan.

Brecken Kasel, a finance major from Wichita, said Doty's mentorship was an eye-opening experience.

"Being able to meet up with Dr. Doty in person and really make a connection with her outside of class got me more engaged when I was in the classroom," Kasel said. "We talked a lot about how I could apply skills from other classes that may not be directly correlated to my major and tie them into my major through other means."

Kasel's final project involved analyzing the financials of four major Italian luxury clothing brands and providing a report on what makes those companies successful.

The mentoring meetings with Doty, individual reflection and the final project helped Kasel realize that he could apply his skills to any career area, including fashion.

"The skills I gained in this course were very valuable because they made me realize the variability my major can have and that I can work in any field I want to through finance, even Italian fashion, which was super eye-opening."

The highlight of Doty's mentorship experience in Italy was the final sharing session, where students presented their reflections and projects.

"We had a really good time together, sharing interests," she said. "The whole class really enjoyed seeing the final projects and reflections and seeing all the different interests and skill sets that everyone brought to the classroom."

Through mentorship, guided reflection and applied learning opportunities, Doty's course in Italy exemplified the power of applied learning experiences to inspire students and prepare them for the future.

Learn more about applied learning and the framework through the Staley School of Leadership.
Barclays (LSE:BARC) shares pulled back after a mild dip, easing around 3% at the close. Investors are weighing recent price movements as well as the banks solid one-year return of 64% and steady revenue growth.

See our latest analysis for Barclays.

Barclays shares have rapidly rebounded this year, delivering a 9% 1-month share price return and a remarkable 64% total shareholder return over the past twelve months. The recent dip appears to be a brief pause, as longer-term momentum and consistent earnings growth continue to be evident.

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With Barclays trading just below analyst targets and showing continued growth, the question for investors is clear: does the current share price present a genuine bargain, or is the market already factoring in future gains?

Most Popular Narrative: 7% Undervalued

Barclays current share price sits under the most followed narratives fair value estimate. This implies room for further upside if its projections play out. Analysts have recently lifted their outlook, reflecting strong business trends and improved earnings prospects. Investors are watching what underpins this new confidence.

Ongoing investments in digital banking and technology platforms, including integration of fintech partnerships and sustained client onboarding in corporate banking, are set to drive operational efficiency and expand Barclays' digital revenue streams. These initiatives support stronger net margins and long-term earnings growth.

Read the complete narrative.

Curious whats powering Barclays higher fair value? The secret lies in bold revenue and margin forecasts, with future earnings multiples that might surprise you. One key assumption holds the entire story together. Find out what it is by reading the complete narrative.

Result: Fair Value of 4.45 (UNDERVALUED)

Have a read of the narrative in full and understand what's behind the forecasts.

However, persistent competition for UK deposits and ongoing regulatory changes may pose headwinds that could challenge Barclays positive outlook.

Find out about the key risks to this Barclays narrative.

Build Your Own Barclays Narrative

If this perspective doesnt fit your view, or youd like to dig into the numbers on your own terms, you can shape your own narrative in just a few minutes. Do it your way

A great starting point for your Barclays research is our analysis highlighting 3 key rewards and 4 important warning signs that could impact your investment decision.
Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE:BHC) is one of the best cheap stocks under $10 to buy now. Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE:BHC), along with its dental products business, announced the commercial expansion of OraPharma into Canada and Puerto Rico. Management reported that the strategic move highlights OraPharmas commitment to bolster partnerships with dental professionals and local distributors in these markets, provide access to treatments in periodontal disease management, and improve oral health awareness.

Bausch Health (BHC) Jumps 8.5% as Exec Hikes Stake; Subsidiaries Raise Over $3-Billion Fresh Funds

OraPharmas flagship product, Arestin, is the only Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved applied antibiotic for use with scaling and root planing (SRP) as part of periodontal disease management, indicated as an as an adjunct to SRP for pocket depth reduction in adult periodontitis.

Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE:BHC) added that in Puerto Rico alone, 44.5% of older adults are living with moderate to severe periodontal disease, which highlights the need for improved access to treatment options in the region.

Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE:BHC) develops, manufactures, and markets a range of generic, branded, and branded generic pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter products, and medical devices. The companys operations are divided into the following segments: Salix, International, Solta Medical, Diversified Products, and Bausch + Lomb.

While we acknowledge the potential of BHC as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
A RESIDENT from Craddock House Nursing Home in Naas has been given the overall award for the Resident Achievement Award at this years Nursing Home Ireland (NHI) Care Awards.

Nursing home resident, Jimmy Cox, originally from Carrick-on-Shannon and resident of Naas for some 30 years, won the award for his massive contributions to the nursing home.

A group from the nursing home travelled to the Mansion House in Dublin for the awards ceremony, which sat over 350 guests for an extravagant meal and a fantastic black-tie event.

Mary Darker, activities coordination manager at the home, was extremely proud and still buzzing from the awards ceremony: It was brilliant, there was a beautiful meal and celebration for all of us." Mary said they are all on a high since the event and Jimmys well-deserved win.

Jimmy been congratulated by Tadgh Daly of Nursing Home Ireland

Jimmy, who is a retired bank manager, first came to the home in 2022, and introduced a fantastic monthly activity for residents in conjunction with the Moat Writers Group  a writing collective in Naas. Once a month, residents gathered to do writing workshops.

Later came the idea to publish all the stories into a book called Branching Out  a perfect keepsake for loved ones and record of personal histories, which contains the jottings of Craddock House residents in the form of personal short stories, poetry, recipes and the like.

The book was published in 2023 and was sold at Craddock House, with the proceeds going to St Vincent de Paul charity.

Ms Darker explained Jimmys role in hugely contributing to life at Craddock House: They [the awards] recognised his contribution to the nursing home, for encouraging other residents to participate in writing each week, and for the culmination of the book. She continued: There are so many stories that get lost and forgotten. The book was a good way to get them down and remember them.
We recently published Market Beaters: 10 Stocks Defying the Odds. Baytex Energy Corp. (NYSE:BTE) is one of the best-performing stocks on Wednesday.

Baytex Energy extended its winning streak to a 6th straight day on Wednesday to hit a nearly one-year high, as investors took heart from its US business exit with the divestment of its assets for $2.3 billion.

During the trading session, the stock soared to its highest price of $3.10 before paring gains to end the day just up by 13.48 percent at $3.03 apiece.

Baytex (BTE) Extends Run on 6th Day as Firm Exits US Business, Focuses on Canada Ops

Copyright: sifotography / 123RF Stock Photo

In a statement, Baytex Energy Corp. (NYSE:BTE) said it signed a definitive agreement with an undisclosed buyer for the sale of US Eagle Ford assets, as it aims to focus on the more robust Canadian market.

Consistent with our disciplined approach to portfolio management, we continually review our asset base to maximize long-term value. Monetizing our US Eagle Ford assets strengthens our balance sheet, supports capital allocation to our highest-return opportunities and positions us to deliver meaningful shareholder returns, Baytex Energy Corp. (NYSE:BTE) President and CEO Eric Greager said.

The transaction is targeted to be completed in late 2025 or early 2026, subject to closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

Baytex Energy Corp. (NYSE:BTE) said that it would return to a net cash position upon the deals closing, with a portion of the proceeds to be used to repay its outstanding credit facilities and notes due 2030.

While we acknowledge the potential of BTE as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an extremely cheap AI stock that is also a major beneficiary of Trump tariffs and onshoring, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now.
Shenandoah, IA (51601)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. High 36F. Winds ESE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 24F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
Key Points

Investing in the energy sector is volatile by nature and prone to big price swings in oil and gas prices.

To minimize that impact, investors should consider owning large, diversified, global energy producers that provide the most stable results.

A predictable and growing income stream is also an important consideration for long-term success in the sector.

10 stocks we like better than ExxonMobil 

One of the most important things investors considering a stake in the energy sector need to know is that it is highly sensitive to macroeconomic cycles and swings in oil and gas prices.

With that in mind, and relative safety within the sector seen as a priority, then it makes sense to consider a large, stable, globally diversified and integrated energy business like ExxonMobil (NYSE: XOM). The Texas-based multinational giant has proven its ability to navigate challenges since it was founded in 1870, as well as a long history of returning profits to shareholders.

Why ExxonMobil?

For starters, few energy producers in the world can match Exxon's size, scope, and diversification, starting with its $500 billion market cap and over $325 billion in annual sales -- both of which lead all 21 of its peers in the Energy Sector Select ETF.

There's also Exxon's mix of businesses, including "upstream" exploration and production operations, as well as its "downstream" refining, marketing, and petrochemical products. It's a combination that gives the company some cushion from fluctuating commodity prices compared to smaller players.

Image source: Getty Images.

Lastly, there's Exxon's dividend and share buyback program, which saw $4.2 billion of dividends and another $5.1 billion of stock repurchases take place in Q3 alone. Additionally, the company announced that it had increased its dividend for the 43rd consecutive year. As a result, ExxonMobil maintained its coveted spot as the largest of just two energy sector companies (the other is Chevron) currently included in the ProShares S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats ETF (Dividend Aristocrats is a registered trademark of Standard & Poors Financial Services LLC), a portfolio of stocks that have all raised their annual payout for at least 25 consecutive years.

In summing up the company's latest quarterly results, ExxonMobil chairman and CEO Darren Woods perhaps said it best: "No one else in our industry is executing at this scale, with this level of innovation, or delivering this kind of value."

Should you invest $1,000 in ExxonMobil right now?

Before you buy stock in ExxonMobil, consider this:
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Francisco J. Silva: Thanks, Rob. For the benefit of those who are new to BioRestorative Therapies, I would like to take a moment to summarize our development programs. Our lead clinical-stage candidate, BRTX-100, is a novel cell-based therapeutic engineered to target areas of the body that have little blood flow. The product is formulated using autologous, or your own, cultured mesenchymal stem cells collected from a patient's bone marrow. The safety and efficacy of BRTX-100 in treating chronic lumbar disc disease is being evaluated in our ongoing Phase II prospective, randomized, double-blinded, and sham-controlled study. A total of up to 99 eligible subjects will be enrolled at up to 16 clinical sites across the United States.

The company's third-quarter 2025 net loss was $3 million or $0.33 a share compared to a net loss of $1 million or $0.13 per share for 2024. The company ended the quarter with cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities of $4.5 million with no outstanding debt. This did not include the gross proceeds of approximately $1.1 million from the company's recent financing, which we completed subsequent to the quarter end. With that, I'll now turn the call over to Francisco.

Robert Eugene Kristal: Thanks, Lance. Good afternoon, everyone. To streamline the presentation of the financial results, all the numbers I will refer to have been rounded, so they are approximate. Third-quarter 2025 revenues were $11,800 and consisted entirely of royalty revenue. This compares to revenues of $233,600 in Q3 2024, the vast majority of which came from biocosmeceutical sales in connection with our exclusive supply agreement with Cartessa. The overall year-over-year decrease in Q3 2025 revenues was driven by the timing of orders for the developing biocosmeceutical revenue stream. The company's third-quarter 2025 loss from operations was $3.7 million compared to $2.3 million for the comparable period of 2024.

Lance Alstodt: Thanks, Stephen, and good afternoon, everyone. Welcome. On behalf of the management team and everyone at BioRestorative Therapies, I would like to thank you for your interest in our company. For those of you who are shareholders, we appreciate your continued support. As you can see from the press release we issued just a short time ago, we continue to execute well across all areas of our business in the third quarter. We have a lot of exciting things to look forward to as we move through the last couple of months of the year. With that said, I'd like to ask Robert Eugene Kristal, our CFO, to provide a brief overview of our third-quarter financial results.

Story Continues

Subjects included in the trial will be randomized two to one to receive either BRTX-100 or placebo. Enrollment in the Phase II study is starting to accelerate, and we expect to be able to share more data as appropriate. In February, we announced that the BRTX-100 program for chronic lumbar disc disease was granted Fast Track designation by the FDA. This was a major milestone achievement, which has enabled us to work more collaboratively with the FDA as we continue to advance our lead clinical program towards a Biologic License Application (BLA) approval.

In that regard, through the Fast Track designation, we are anticipating that the FDA will grant us a Type B meeting to discuss a potential accelerated BLA approval pathway for the BRTX-100 program for the treatment of chronic lumbar disc disease. Moving to our core preclinical metabolic program, ThermoStem, we are developing a cell-based therapy candidate to target obesity and related metabolic disorders using brown adipose tissue-derived stem cells, which are then used to generate brown adipose tissue (BAT) as well as exosomes secreted by the brown adipose stem cells. BAT is intended to mimic naturally occurring brown adipose depots that have been found to regulate metabolic homeostasis in humans and is involved in weight loss.

The global obesity market is projected to exceed $100 billion annually by the end of the decade, driven by unprecedented demand for GLP-1 therapies. BioRestorative Therapies' ThermoStem program is uniquely designed to address this demand by, one, providing an alternative to chronic GLP-1 injections through a regenerative cell-based solution; two, mitigating tolerability issues such as muscle mass loss or potential cardiovascular risk, some of the most pressing concerns associated with GLP-1 therapies; and three, creating licensing and partnership opportunities. With respect to the last point, we are pleased that our previously reported substantial discussions with an undisclosed commercial-stage regenerative medicine company regarding a potential license agreement for our ThermoStem metabolic disease program are continuing.

While we cannot provide interim progress updates nor provide any assurances that this will come to a mutually acceptable agreement, we are committed to closing the loop as soon as practical. As awareness of the promise that our ThermoStem-derived brown adipose-derived stem cells hold for the treatment of obesity-related metabolic disorders continues to grow, it is important that this potentially game-changing opportunity is well protected, both for us and any current or future potential licensing partners. Accordingly, we have been methodically building a comprehensive patent portfolio with issued patents that cover both U.S. and international markets. The most recent example of that came this past October when we announced a major intellectual property milestone.

The Japanese Patent Office issued a notice of allowance for our ThermoStem platform. The newly allowed patent provides broad protection terms for allogeneic, off-the-shelf brown adipose-derived stem cell technology. These claims are materially stronger than previously granted patents, covering not only the therapeutic cells themselves but also multiple methods of encapsulation and delivery, including alginate microcapsules, cellulose hydrogels, polymer membranes, and advanced scaffolding systems. With that, I will turn the call back over to Lance.

Lance Alstodt: Thanks, Francisco. As you can see from what Francisco and Rob just reviewed, we had an exciting and productive third quarter. While the progress continues, we are carefully managing our resources as we advance our two core development programs. Before I close, I want to highlight two transformative developments that we believe reshape BioRestorative Therapies' commercial and clinical trajectory. First, our biocosmeceuticals business continues to gain a lot of momentum. Over the last several months, we have rebuilt and strengthened our commercial infrastructure, including supply chain, sales coverage, distribution, and customer engagement. A major part of that strategy was bringing in the right commercial leader.

As many of you saw in a recent press release, we welcomed Crystal Romano as our Global Head of Commercial Operations. Crystal is a known commodity to us and to the aesthetics community. She helped lead commercial execution efforts as President of Cartessa, and she understands the physician office and medical spa channels exceptionally well. Having someone with her product experience, account relationships, and hands-on operating background gives us tremendous confidence in her ability to execute and drive scalable revenue growth. The enthusiasm that we are seeing and that from what I am seeing in the field, combined with Crystal's leadership, positions this business for meaningful revenue contribution as we scale.

For a company in our position, having a commercial business capable of generating revenue alongside our clinical programs is strategically important, and we believe it can become a very material contributor in 2026 and beyond. Second, and equally as exciting, we believe that enrollment in our Phase II BRTX-100 clinical trial is approaching completion. Each month, we move closer to a fully enrolled study and a more statistically powerful data set. While the data remain blinded, the initial trends continue to mirror our earlier clinical signals, including significant improvement in pain and function for patients suffering from chronic lumbar disc disease.

Completing enrollment would be a major milestone for the company, and it positions us exceptionally well heading into a potential Type B FDA meeting in December. As enrollment completes, we intend to present additional data from a larger patient population, and we are optimistic that the results will be consistent with the encouraging trends observed so far. Simply put, the pathway to a potential Phase III and ultimately a BLA has never been more visible. In addition, I want to highlight the strength of our recent financing. Following the end of the quarter, we closed a fully subscribed financing that was priced above market. Senior leadership, including myself and several of our existing investors, participated in the round.

We believe that level of participation reflects continued confidence in the direction of the company, belief in the value of our clinical and commercial strategy, and alignment with long-term shareholder interests. Importantly, the financing strengthened our balance sheet and ensures we have the resources needed to advance our short-term clinical and commercial milestones while continuing to manage our cash efficiently. We also remain, as Francisco said, in subsequent discussions with a commercial-stage regenerative medicine company regarding a potential license of our ThermoStem metabolic program. As you mentioned, we are not providing interim updates on that. We remain committed to closing the loop on that process as soon as practical.

We believe that the strength of our expanding intellectual property portfolio further enhances the value of that platform. We have also been able to access that cell line and that platform for use in our biocosmeceuticals, so we are starting to cross-fertilize our cell-based therapy technology into commercially developed products as well. Taken together, accelerating our clinical progress, a growing commercial engine, ongoing licensing discussions, and a strengthened balance sheet, we believe BioRestorative Therapies is well-positioned to deliver meaningful value creation in the quarters ahead. I thank you for your time. With that, concluding our introductory remarks, we are happy to take any questions you may have.

Holly, if you wanted to open it up for some questions, I would be happy to do that.

Operator: Certainly. At this time, we will be conducting a question and answer session. If you would like to ask a question, please press star one on your telephone keypad. A confirmation tone will indicate your line is in the question queue. You may press star two if you would like to remove your question from the queue. For participants using speaker equipment, it may be necessary to pick up your handset before pressing the star keys. Once again, that is star one to ask a question. One moment, please, while we poll for questions. Your first question for today is from Michael Okunewitch with Maxim Group.

Michael Okunewitch: Hey, guys. Thank you for taking my questions today. Congrats on all the great progress.

Lance Alstodt: Thanks, Michael.

Michael Okunewitch: I guess just with the changes to your leadership and seeming increased focus on this biocosmeceuticals business, just talk a little bit about how significant that overall cosmeceuticals opportunity is? And then is this something that you would be able to tap on your own, or would you need more Cartessa-like deals to penetrate this market? I would just like to get a better understanding of how you view the market dynamics here.

Lance Alstodt: Sure. No, I appreciate the question. It is going to be a substantial focus for us going forward. We are really positioning the company as a hybrid where we are taking opportunity and advantage of near-term revenue opportunities along with the longer-term clinical outcomes. I think there is no one like us in the MicroCap biotech space, which I think provides for a very differentiated profile and one that is extremely interesting for both investors as well as success to shareholders. In terms of the opportunity, this is a $63 billion market opportunity. This is a huge and growing market, the biocosmeceutical space.

We are a biotech company, and there are not many biotech companies that are fully focused on developing this market. Many companies are marketing companies that are sourcing material that I would describe as low dilution, low quality. We are able to manufacture, formulate, test, quality test, and release products coming directly from our lab using different cell lines and different variabilities. We are approaching this market originally with an exclusive distribution agreement with Cartessa. We have been working with Cartessa to broaden that scope outside of Cartessa's distribution capabilities. That is part of the reason for having Crystal in place. We have more of a three-pronged approach.

We are going to add additional distributors on board, so not just Cartessa, but many others. Those distributors we have relationships with through Crystal's large rolodex of account relationships. We will also be selling directly into the med spas and aestheticians, that professional channel, where we will be able to capture that margin that we would have otherwise not been able to capture by selling directly into Cartessa. So that is an exciting accretive opportunity for us. Crystal has a tremendous amount of relationships within that professional channel as that was her calling effort as part of Cartessa. So we are excited to really get that underway.

I will tell you, based on some of the calls that I have had with her, I am very confident and optimistic that this is a business that we are going to put the wheels on track very soon and be able to demonstrate some meaningful wins within the first couple of quarters of her being here. I would also like to discuss potentially the idea of going direct to consumer with a branded product that we have been discussing and talking about from a business plan perspective, understanding the logistics and the resources that are required in order to do that.

I think this three-pronged approach gives us a really broad approach to this large and growing market with probably one of the best, if not the best, most potent exosome-based secretomes that are out there. The beauty about our business and our manufacturing capabilities is the ability to work with the customer to customize, whether it is a branded product or a white label product, to their specifications and to their customer networks. Dialing up and dialing down the potency, adding different types of peptides, adding different types of growth factors, etcetera. This is going to be something that we should all keep our eyes on.

Obviously, it is a little bit too early to give specific guidance in terms of the revenue ramp. I still maintain the idea that we will see some lumpiness in this business as we are starting out. There may be quarters where we have an outsized revenue number and some quarters in the very beginning where it looks like a miss, but it is really just about the developing business and reaching a broader group of customers. We are excited about this, and we will talk more about this going forward.

Michael Okunewitch: And then I would like to follow up on that, just talking a little bit about how this impacts the overall business strategy, how you are balancing these now two sides of the business, and also some potential synergy there. So is your focus on biocosmeceuticals shifting any resources away from clinical development, or is this truly additive? And then are there any potential synergies in biocosmeceuticals from having the credibility of a legitimate biotechnology company?

Lance Alstodt: Yes. So the cross synergies, I would describe, have to do with the cell lines that we are using for clinical purposes. As you know, we are not commercializing our cell lines domestically as they are governed under the FDA from a BLA license perspective. But we are able to use aspects of those cell lines to develop products for topical use only, for cosmetic use only. I expect that the end users will use these products for topical use only. I do not know whether or not they will use it off-label for regenerative purposes. We do not condone that, but I believe that will be also an aspect of the end user's application.

In terms of resources, we can manage the resources within this space entirely with the people that we have today. We may add some additional folks on the quality side and on the manufacturing side. We are going to see a lull in the utilization of our lab as we fulfill our enrollment obligation under our Phase II protocol. Then there will be some time of delay between a Phase II and a Phase III. Our expectation is that during that time frame, we can really capitalize on full utilization and focus within the biocosmeceutical program.

Michael Okunewitch: Alright. Thank you for the additional color, Lance. I really appreciate the update.

Lance Alstodt: Thanks, Michael.

Operator: Your next question for today is from Jonathan Matthew Aschoff with ROTH Capital.

Jonathan Matthew Aschoff: Hi. How are you doing? I was wondering on BRTX-100, can you help us understand when we may see the subsequent data release? Will it still be blinded, or will it be the final data since it sounds like you are almost enrolled? Also, can you help us out with any maybe numerical enrollment update?

Lance Alstodt: On the numerical side, I will say we are more than three-quarters enrolled. We have more than 10 patients in late-stage screening, which could come in for harvest within the next couple of weeks. If you do the math, we are getting really close. I do not know if we are going to get it just under the wire in terms of the year-end, but to the extent that it is built into January, I think that is a very realistic and pragmatic target for us to hit from an enrollment perspective.

As far as data, we are going to keep the data blinded because we have a strategy as it relates to communication with the FDA under our Fast Track designation, looking to accelerate the BLA process. Our hope would be to get directly into a Phase III study from a pivotal perspective as opposed to doing two Phase III studies, as most companies do two Phase III studies. We have such a large and robust data set in connection with our Phase II with 99 patients.

The idea would be to keep that data blinded and report on higher numbers with more data on a blinded perspective as we continue to attend and ask to present our material at certain conferences, certain industry-related conferences. In terms of the FDA and regulatory strategy, I think it is important that people understand that getting a Phase III pivotal while we are still completing the Phase II, which is kind of part of the ask in this upcoming Type B meeting, is game-changing for us. It would basically shave off about three years of time on the calendar and significant costs related to doing another Phase III.

If that were the case, then we would want to keep our data related to our Phase II blinded and do the appropriate follow-up in our protocol to a 24-month follow-up. That being said, it is really important to note that if the FDA does give us that green light, what they are doing is they are saying our safety profile is pristine. They are not going to allow us to move forward with a bad safety profile. Today, we have no material adverse events, no dose-limiting toxicities. Everything is really clean. It is an autologous product. We are very comfortable with that. They will be looking at a subset of data with respect to efficacy.

That green light from them would be tremendous. It would be a major value-enhancing inflection point and would be sort of an acknowledgment that we do not have to unblind the data; we are going to go forward in this pivotal study. If for some reason they decide, like many other biotech companies, we have to do two Phase III studies, that would put us in a position where we would consider unblinding the data after a 12-month follow-up and then report on that data effectively 12 months from the last patient that was enrolled. Like I said, we are expecting enrollment to be complete in the very near term.

Jonathan Matthew Aschoff: Alright. So it is enrollment completion, then a Type B meeting where you will figure out if it is one or two Phase III studies. That Type B looks like...

Lance Alstodt: I think we are going to continue to enroll patients. In December, we hope and expect, you know, the FDA has been a little bit slow to react just given the shutdown. We expect that we will get on the calendar sometime before the end of the year and have that Type B meeting. It is unclear whether we are going to have a definitive response from the FDA. We will be able to learn a lot. We will be able to review what a Phase III protocol looks like and get some buy-in. Part of the Fast Track designation process is to really sit down with the FDA and explore ways in which we can accelerate that BLA.

Jonathan Matthew Aschoff: Okay. And what is going on with the cervical trial?

Lance Alstodt: Getting that clearance is important. I think that is very meaningful in terms of keeping our pipeline robust. We have not dedicated resources to developing it. We have a protocol. We have an agreed-upon protocol with the FDA, but it is not as if we are starting to go out and recruit sites and recruit patients just given the financial constraints. I think this is something that we want to mark, that we have experience getting multiple INDs approved. It is my belief that our focus should really be around the lumbar spine.

If we can get the BLA approved, then it is our expectation that people will be really taking advantage of the broad application of that product in a variety of different avascular zones. But I think we tie that more to a company that has more robust capital resources down the road. I think it shows and demonstrates our strong regulatory capabilities and clinical capabilities by getting approved INDs in a variety of different applications.

Jonathan Matthew Aschoff: Okay. You know, lastly, do you think you are done booking biocosmeceutical revenues this year, or do you think we might have a recurrence of something in April that might look a little like the second quarter was?

Lance Alstodt: I do not know about the second quarter because it could be. I mean, now, I do not have the visibility. I know that some products have been sold since Crystal has been on board, but it is probably nascent relative to what I think the opportunity looks like as we begin to scale and she gets her feet under her.

Jonathan Matthew Aschoff: Okay. Thank you very much, guys.

Lance Alstodt: Thank you.

Operator: Once again, if you would like to ask a question, please press 1 on your keypad. We have reached the end of the question and answer session. I will now turn the call over to Lance for closing remarks.

Lance Alstodt: Thank you, Holly. I appreciate everyone's time. I think this is a really positive quarter for the company in terms of our clinical progress. Again, I am really excited about the development and some of the very meaningful changes that we have made in terms of bolstering our commercial program. I think there is more to talk about next quarter in that regard. Obviously, this upcoming discussion that we hope to have with the FDA should provide us with additional clarity on the regulatory pathway. Thanks again for your participation. We look forward to talking to you soon.

Operator: This concludes today's conference, and you may disconnect your lines at this time. Thank you for your participation.

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BioRestorative (BRTX) Earnings Call Transcript was originally published by The Motley Fool
Chinese authorities have officially denied rumors claiming former EXO member Kris Wu died in prison, following a wave of unverified posts that circulated widely on social media. Wu, who is serving a 13-year sentence for sexual assault and group indecency, became the target of a series of sensationaland ultimately baselessclaims about his fate behind bars.

The rumors spread rapidly after an anonymous user on Weibo claimed to be imprisoned in the same facility and alleged that Wu "died after being brutally beaten for refusing sexual demands from a prison gang leader." Other posts suggested he had suffered fatal complications after going on a hunger strike, All KPop News reported.

Fabricated Photos Add Fuel to the Fire

The situation escalated when digitally manipulated images began circulating online. The photos showed a man resembling Kris Wu in prison attire, appearing to be undergoing interrogation. Authorities later confirmed the images were fabricated, created by altering another person's face to mimic the celebrity.

Police Call Reports 'Fake News'

With speculation intensifying, Jiangsu provincial police issued a rare public statement to refute the claims. In a Weibo post, officials labeled the allegations "fake news" and warned that "spreading unverified information could result in legal consequences."

Their unusually direct response highlights the scale of the misinformation and the level of public attention the case continues to draw.

"The rumors of Kris's death have been raised three times during his imprisonment. The police have also refuted these rumors, " Chinese media stated in a report by The Chosun.

Kris Wu's Legal Case and Sentencing

Kris Wu, born in Guangzhou and later naturalized as a Canadian citizen, rose to fame as a member of EXO between 2012 and 2014 before launching a solo career in China. His downfall began after allegations emerged that he had repeatedly sexually assaulted intoxicated women at his home between November and December 2020. Additional claims accused him of engaging in lewd acts with multiple women in July 2018.

In November 2022, the Beijing Chaoyang District People's Court sentenced him to 13 years in prison11 years and 6 months for sexual assault, plus 1 year and 10 months for group indecency. Authorities have not disclosed details regarding his current prison location or living conditions.

Rumors Persist, but Officials Say He Remains Alive

Despite online speculation, officials have made it clear that Kris Wu is alive and serving his sentence. Their firm rebuttal aims to quell misinformation and remind the public of the legal risks associated with spreading unverified claims.
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On a day when the new XRP exchange-traded fund set a 2025 record for daily net inflows, established Bitcoin and Ethereum funds endured one of their worst days for investments.

On Thursday, the 11 spot BTC ETFs shed nearly $867 million in assets, the second highest total in their 22-month history, while the nine ETH funds bled an additional $260 million, according to UK asset manager Farside Investors.

The outflows occurred on a rocky day for digital assets, with Bitcoin dropping below $98,500 for the first time in more than six monthsabout 20% off its record high set in early October, according to crypto markets data provider CoinGecko. BTC plunged even deeper later Friday morning, dipping below $97,000.

Ethereum and Solana hit four- and five-month lows as investors continued an exodus from risk-on assetstech stocks includeda result of the shaky U.S. economic and political environment.

BlackRocks iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), the largest spot Bitcoin fund with more than $80 billion in assets under management, led the declines with more than a quarter of billion in outflows. The Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC), the second largest Bitcoin fund by AUM, dropped more than $119 million in investments.

Interest in those funds has sagged in recent weeks with IBIT hemorrhaging more than $1 billion since over the last 13 trading days and FBTC more than $681 million.

Bitfarms Will 'Wind Down' Bitcoin Mining and Pivot to AI After $46 Million Loss

Meanwhile, Canary Capitals spot XRP ETF (XRPC) opened with $58 million in first-day trading volume, the strongest debut of any exchange-traded fund this year.

The scale of flows was unexpected with Bloomberg Senior ETF Analyst Eric Balchunas initially projecting around $17 million for XRPC. The fund cleared that within half an hour, and narrowly bested the performance of the Bitwise Solana Staking ETF (BSOL), which opened with $57 million when it launched two weeks ago.

BSOL has already generated more than $550 million in net inflows, although on Thursday it totaled just $1.5 million.
A DOMESTIC dispute between an ex-husband and wife ended up with the woman pleading guilty to assault when she came before the Family Law Court in Portlaoise last week.

Parties in family law cases cannot be identified by law.

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said that on 14 December last year a domestic dispute broke out in a house in Portlaoise between the couple when he brought back one of his daughters to her mothers house.

As he was standing on the step of the stairs in the house, she pushed him with force, and he fell backwards.

Sgt Kirby said the 43-year-old woman had no previous convictions.

Defending solicitor Brian Duffy said the incident took place after a difficult marriage and a prolonged break up that had a toxic background. On the day the father was to drop back one of the children it is alleged he verbally abused the mother of his children calling her a psycho and commented on the state of the house. She went upstairs, placed her hand out and told him to stop as she did not like him saying those things in front of their children.

Defending solicitor Mr Duffy said that after his client pushed him, the man told her: Thats definitely going to get you hung, drawn and quartered.

Mr Duffy said: She was mortified by what she had done with the children present. He said a number of efforts had been made by gardai to offer the woman an adult caution for the incident, but she had missed their calls for several reasons and so had ended up before the court.

Mr Duffy said his client was personally known to him and someone who he would trust implicitly with his children.

He said the woman had 300 with her to donate to the court poor box, if thats what Judge Susan Fay ordered.

The judge said she would refer the woman to the Restorative Justice Programme and the Parenting When Separated Programme which is run by Barnardos.

Judge Fay adjourned the case to 20 April 2026 and said if the defendant engaged with the programmes she would consider imposing the Probation Act.

Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme
Louisiana Tech University conferred degrees upon 325 graduates in the Class of Fall 2025  a group of students who join nearly 118,000 Tech alumni worldwide  during commencement on Saturday in the Thomas Assembly Center.

Misti S. Cordell, chair of the Louisiana Board of Regents, owner COR Consulting, LLC, and a 1997 Human Resources Management graduate of Louisiana Tech, served as the keynote speaker for the ceremony.

She left the graduating students with three key pieces of advice during her speech:

Be the person who finds the yes  If you are the cooler head in the room, the well-prepared, and the ready problem-solver, you will become a crucial part of your organization.

Know your passion and potential and fight for both  Stand firm on your foundations and operate with honesty and integrity every day  focus on your goals, not distractions.

Challenge yourself to do whats hard  Risk is well worth the reward  believe in and commit to your purpose and hang on for whats next; you are ready.

Cordell also took a moment to acknowledge her mother for creating a legacy of learners and achievers by working hard to earn her nursing degree at age 38 and becoming a first-generation graduate. A round of applause followed for all the parents of graduating students in attendance.

During the ceremony, University mascot Champ presented one student from the Krewe of Champ organization, Jensen Adams, with his degree. Another student, finance graduate Aaron Peel, became a fifth-generation alum in his family. And multiple Louisiana Tech faculty and staff earned advanced degrees, including Dr. Devonia Love-Vaughn (Dean of Cultural Engagement and Student Success) and Dr. Ashley Owen (Director of Counseling Services), the latter earning her second doctorate and third degree overall from Louisiana Tech.

View Fall 2025 Commencement Photos
RIO DE JANEIRO (AP)  Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin said Saturday that Brazilian exported goods to the U.S. including coffee, beef and tropical fruits would still be tariffed 40%, despite President Donald Trumps decision to remove some import taxes.

In a dramatic move on Friday, Trump scrapped levies announced in April on what he called Liberation Day in hopes of encouraging domestic production and lifting the U.S. economy. Brazil at the time was hit with a 10% tariff.

But in July, Trump imposed a further 40% tariff, citing  among other reasons  the trial of his ally, former President Jair Bolsonaro, which he called a witch hunt. Proceedings went ahead regardless and in September Bolsonaro was sentenced to 27 years and three months in prison for attempting a coup.

Alckmin said some products, such as orange juice, would now have a zero tariff as they were not targeted by the additional 40%. But that extra tariff remains in place on products including coffee, beef and tropical fruits, such as mangos and pineapples.

While Brazils vice president welcomed Trumps latest decision, which he called positive and a step in the right direction, he said there remained a distortion that needs to be corrected.

Everyone got 10% less, but in Brazils case, which had 50%, we ended up with 40%, which is very high, Alckmin told journalists in the capital Brasilia.

For rolling updates on tariffs, check out our liveblog >

Alckmin said that Friday's decision means that 26% of Brazilian goods are now entering the U.S. without additional tariffs. That's up from 23%.

Trumps July decision, which was overtly political as Brazil has a trade deficit with the United States, led to the worst U.S.-Brazil relations in history.

Those relations have since improved, and in October Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Trump met in Malaysia.

President Lulas conversation with President Donald Trump was important in terms of dialogue and negotiation, Alckmin said on Saturday.

After that encounter, Lula said he was confident the two countries would soon reach a trade deal.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Brazils Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira met for 50 minutes this week to further the conversation.

The Trump administration has insisted that its tariffs helped fill government coffers and werent a major factor in higher prices at grocery stores around the country. But Democrats were quick to paint Fridays move as an acknowledgment that Trumps policies were hurting American pocketbooks.

Record-high beef prices have been a particular concern, and Trump had said he intended to take action to try and lower them. Trumps tariffs on Brazil, a major beef exporter, had been a factor.
A man has been ordered to stay away from a direct provision centre in Laois.

Fraidoon Omar (40) of Airways Integration Centre, Unit 29, Viscount Avenue, Dublin 17 appeared before Portlaoise District Court accused of trespass at Hibernian Direct Provision, Pembroke Terrace, Abbeyleix on November 8 last.

He appeared before Portlaoise District Court where Garda Metthew McGrath gave evidence of arresting the accused at 9.10pm on the date in question. He said the defendant replied after caution, I just want to stay with my wife and family.

There is a number of bail conditions that I am looking to put on the accused, said Garda McGrath.

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said the bail conditions were agreed. His client was assisted in court by an interpreter.

The conditions included that the defendant reside at his Dublin address, that he have no contact directly or indirectly with staff at Hibernian Direct Provision Centre in Abbeyleix, that he notify gardai of any change of address, that he stay away from the Hibernian Direct Provision Centre and stay out of the town of Abbeyleix.

Judge Susan Fay granted Mr Fitzgeralds request for legal aid and a Persian interpreter for the next date.

She remanded the defendant on bail and adjourned the case back to Portlaoise District Court on December 8.
A man who was involved in a fatal road collision and developed a reliance on alcohol was given community service in lieu of prison time.

Lee Dennehy (23) of 86 Rossvale, Portlaoise admitted stealing two bottles of Huzzar vodka valued at 42 from Mulhalls SuperValu, Lyster Square Portlaoise on June 16, 2025. He took alcohol valued at 40 from Buckleys Carryout, Mountmellick Road, Portlaoise on August 14, 2025 and he was intoxicated in public at Jessop Street, Portlaoise on October 28, 2024.

Solicitor Philip Meagher said his client had a well known pattern of behaviour stemming from alcohol abuse. He said the man was involved in a fatal road traffic accident and had turned to alcohol.

He described the mans behaviour as somewhat pathetic and said the accused was walking into shops, taking alcohol and walking out without making any effort to conceal what he was doing.

Mr Meagher said the man was now in a steady relationship and was actively looking for work. He said he had brought 82 of compensation to court.

Judge Susan Fay noted the man had attended all six sessions of the Athy Alternative Project, had pleaded guilty and had compensation in court. She also noted he had been deemed suitable for community service.

She sentenced him to 200 hours of community service in lieu of eight months in prison at the sitting of Portlaoise District Court.
A St Vincent de Paul Shop in Laois is trying to find a donor who may have unwittingly donated some valuable items.

Stradballys St Vincent de Paul shop put out an appeal on social media looking for help to identify the owner.

Hi everyone. Some time ago, a jewellery box was donated to the SVP Stradbally shop. When we opened it, we found two valuable pieces of jewellery inside. We dont think the person meant to donate them, they stated in an online post.

We believe the donor is from Athy, and we have the surname Quinn, but we dont want to share the full name online. We just want to return the jewellery to the right person.

Staff at the store believe the items may not have come from Laois and could have come from neighbouring Kildare.

"If you are the donor, or if you know someone from Athy with the surname Quinn who may have donated this jewellery box a while back, please contact us on 085 8705635, the Stradbally store added.
Laois TD Willie Aird has called on Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) to stop Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs) in relation to the development of greenways.

Speaking at this week's meeting of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Transport, Deputy Aird urged TII "you're stopping progress by having it there."

Representatives of the Irish Farmers' Association, National Greenway Action Association, Deise Greenway Group, and TII joined the Joint Committee on Transport to discuss active travel and greenway development.

The Laois TD shared his own personal experience as a farmer who was issued a CPO on his land, describing it as "the worst single thing that can happen to anybody." He said: "The minute that letter came through it was panic stations with me and everybody else that was associated with it."

READ NEXT: 'We are going to lose our youth' - More private housing needed in Laois amid shortage

Deputy Aird emphasised that greenways are positive contributions to communities and that there is no need to issue CPOs in order to ensure their development. Rather, it impedes the process by distressing landowners.

He told the Oireachtas Committee: "Please do not walk into a farmer and tell him, if you do not agree with me, I'll serve a CPO on you. That doesn't work, it's not going to work, and you get the backs up of everybody on that greenway straight away."

The TD said that progress on greenways must come through agreement, and called on TII to adopt a more collaborative approach towards planning.

OConnor of TII responded to Deputy Aird's point by saying he does not disagree with him. However, he noted: "CPO should not be the calling card but is required ultimately."

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
Investigations are underway after a woman died in a house fire in Moneygall, close to the Tipperary / Offaly border.

Gardai have confirmed the alarm was raised at around 10pm on Friday and that emergency services attended the scene a short time later.

The main road through the village was closed overnight with local diversions being put in place as fire crews and gardai dealt with the fire.

"The fire was brought under control by the Fire Service and the body of a woman, aged in her 60s, was recovered from inside the residence," confirmed a garda spokesperson who added that no other injuries were reported at the time.

"The local coroner has been notified, and the womans body has been conveyed to the mortuary at Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore," said the spokesperson.

It's understood arrangements are being made to conduct a post-mortem examination on the woman's body.

READ NEXT: ALERT: Penneys recalls hundreds of baby soothers sold at Irish stores amid choking risk

The scene of the fire has been preserved for technical examinations and gardai say investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Anyone with information about what happened is asked to come forward.

At this stage, there is nothing to suggest foul play.
The Bishop of Ossory which includes Laois towns Rathdowney, Borris-In-Ossory, Castletown, Camross and Durrow, along with most of Kilkenny and parts of Offaly, is moving home to his native Donegal.

Bishop Niall Coll has been appointed as the Bishop of Raphoe, by Pope Leo.

He thanks his soon to be former Ossory parishioners as part of his acceptance speech.

"It is with deep gratitude that I return home to serve as Bishop of Raphoe - the diocese where I was born, baptised, and ordained. To be called back to the place and people who first formed my faith is both humbling and deeply moving.



"From my earliest days, the faith and love I experienced in my family home in Saint Johnston have shaped every step of my journey.



"I think today with special affection of my mother, Kathleen, whose love and deep faith continue to be a source of strength and encouragement; and of my late father, Willie, whose example of quiet integrity, humour and trust in God left a mark that remains with me always.



"I am blessed also by the constant love and support of my sisters, my brother, my wider family and many friends, whose loyalty and kindness have accompanied me through every step of life and ministry.



"To return now to Raphoe, the diocese that first formed me, is both humbling and profoundly moving. It was here that I first learned what faith looks like when it is lived day by day - in families, in schools, in parishes, and in the generous witness of so many lay faithful, priests and religious.

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"I wish to acknowledge with heartfelt gratitude my predecessors who have shepherded this diocese with faith and dedication.

I want, too, to acknowledge Monsignor Kevin Gillespie, who has so ably and faithfully served as Diocesan Administrator since Bishop McGuckians transfer to Down and Connor almost two years ago. He has carried that responsibility with steadiness, discretion and generosity.



"For the past three years, I have had the privilege of serving as Bishop of Ossory. The priests, religious and people of that diocese welcomed me with warmth and trust, and I have learned much from their faith, their generosity and their resilience in facing the challenges of our time. I leave Ossory with deep affection and gratitude, and with friendships that I will always treasure.

PHOTOS: Bishop Niall Coll opening Errill's new community hall in Laois





"As I return now to Raphoe, I do so as one who was ordained a priest of this diocese thirty-seven years ago. I carry with me immense respect for the priests of Raphoe - for their faithfulness, their pastoral care, their humour and their dedication to the people they serve. I am also deeply grateful to the parishes where I was privileged to minister in earlier years. The people of those parishes taught me the meaning of priesthood and discipleship - not in theory, but through their faith, kindness and friendship.



"I also want to acknowledge with gratitude the teachers in our Catholic schools and the vital place of Catholic education in the life of this diocese. Supporting and strengthening that work will be a priority for me - deepening the good work already being done and building on the legacy that has shaped generations across our land. Having myself worked in education, both here in Donegal and for many years in Belfast, I know the dedication and faith that teaching requires, and I am deeply grateful to all who serve in our schools today.



"Raphoe is a place where the faith has deep roots. It is the land of Columba, Eunan and so many holy men and women who, across generations, lived their faith with perseverance and courage. The rugged landscape of Donegal has shaped a faith that is resilient and steadfast - a faith that carried families through persecution, famine and emigration, that sustained parishes through hardship and change, that built schools, churches, monasteries, and communities where Christ was known and loved.



"That same faith endures today, though it faces new and very different challenges. Like every diocese in Ireland, Raphoe is living through a time of profound change - cultural, social and spiritual. We are no longer at the centre of public life in the way the Church once was. Many people who once found their identity naturally in the life of the parish now find it elsewhere. Patterns of belief and belonging have shifted. The number of priests continues to decline, and we feel this particularly in our smaller rural communities, where the priests presence has long been interwoven with local life.



"These are real challenges, and we do ourselves no favour by pretending otherwise. But I believe - I truly believe - that this moment can also be a time of grace. The Church is being invited, even compelled, to rediscover what it means to be the People of God - a community of disciples gathered around the Word, the Eucharist and the call to serve. When we are fewer in number, we are reminded that the Churchs vitality does not come from structures or statistics, but from hearts set on fire with love for Christ.



"The priests of this diocese carry heavy responsibilities today. I want, from the outset, to express my deep gratitude to them - for their fidelity, their generosity and their perseverance. I also want to acknowledge the growing number of lay people who are stepping forward to take up roles in parish life  in pastoral and finance councils, catechesis, liturgy, charitable outreach and so many other ministries. The renewal of the Church in Raphoe will depend on this shared sense of mission, where priests and people walk together, each bringing their gifts to the service of the Gospel.



"At a national level, the Church in Ireland is reflecting deeply on its future - on how parishes and dioceses might be reorganised, how we can best sustain pastoral life, and how faith might be handed on in a more secular world. These conversations can stir anxiety, but they are also an opportunity - an opportunity to imagine how the deep and ancient faith of Ireland might take root afresh in our time. Whether through cooperation between parishes, with neighbouring dioceses or through new pastoral arrangements, our guiding concern must always be the care of souls and our witness of Christs love.



"We live in a world where faith is often met with indifference and sometimes even hostility. But I do not believe that the Irish people have lost their spiritual hunger. Beneath the noise and distraction of modern life, there remains a deep longing - for meaning, belonging, forgiveness and hope. The Churchs task is not to lament what has been lost, but to speak again to that longing, to make visible the mercy of God in our parishes, our families and our daily lives.

Read Next: WATCH: car erupts in flames in busy Laois town square



"The Diocese of Raphoe carries within it over fourteen centuries of faith. The ruins of ancient monasteries, churches and the holy wells scattered across our landscape remind us that faith has endured through every season of history - through poverty, persecution and change. That heritage is not just our past - it is our responsibility in the present. The same Spirit who inspired our ancestors in their trials is with us now, urging us to hand on the faith to a new generation with integrity and joy.



"As we look to the future, there are certain priorities that must guide us. We need to renew and support our priests, who are the Churchs great treasure; to foster a culture of vocation in which priesthood and religious life are seen as living possibilities; to empower lay leadership rooted in baptismal mission; and to engage thoughtfully with the culture around us - not to condemn, but to understand, to converse, and to offer the Gospel as the answer to the deepest questions of the human heart.



"This will require courage and imagination, and sometimes it will demand difficult choices. We may need to share resources more effectively, to collaborate across parish and diocesan boundaries, and to find new forms of ministry suited to todays realities. But such changes, if guided by the Spirit, are not signs of decline - they are expressions of fidelity to the mission Christ has entrusted to us.



"As I prepare to begin this new ministry, I do so with a heart that is both grateful and trusting. Grateful for the faith that has shaped this land, for the example of those who have gone before us, and for the welcome I have already received. And trusting that, even in our weakness, the Holy Spirit is at work - renewing, guiding and surprising us.

Read also: New warning for Laois floods - send us your local photographs of affected areas



"The future of the Church in Raphoe will not depend on one person or one plan. It will depend on our willingness to listen to the Spirit together, to pray together, and to discern where Christ is leading us. That is the journey I wish to take with you - as your bishop, as a fellow disciple, and as a servant of the Gospel.



"Let us walk that road with courage and with hope. The same Lord who called Columba from these shores to bring the light of faith to distant lands now calls us to renew that light here, in our own time. May we be worthy of the trust that has been placed in us.



"Teimis ar aghaidh le cheile agus muid lan le muinin. A Mhuire, a Mhathair na hEaglaise, guigh orainne. A Cholmcille, a Adhamhnain, a Bhrid, a Chiarain, a Cheannach, guigi orainn," Bishop Niall Coll said.
The government has been criticised by a Kildare county councillor for its handling of a hunger strike which recently came to an end.

Until it came to an end on November 11 last, a hunger strike was being carried out by four people on hunger strike outside Leinster House.

The protestors  Miriam Moriarty Owens, Mary Donovan, Mary Dunlevy Greene, and Maurice Patton OConnell  are survivors of institutional abuse and were demanding State support in response to what happened to them in industrial and reformatory schools. Specifically, the group wanted to be awarded a Health Amendment Act (HAA) card and a State contributory pension.

Following a meeting with An Taoiseach Micheal Martin and the Minister for Education Helen McEntee, it is understood the government is now offering a package of measures including financial assistance, priority access for social housing and healthcare supports.

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Previously, the four protestors found support in newly-elected President of Ireland, Catherine Connolly.

And now, Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender has also expressed support for the group.

The Newbridge-based politician said: "It should shame this government that it took 51 days of protest and a hunger strike for survivors of institutional abuse to be heard.

"These men and women were failed once by the State in the institutions, and theyve now been failed again by a government that only acted under public pressure."

Cllr Pender further said the courage of the four survivors had "exposed a system that listens only when forced".

He alleged: "The government ignored them for weeks, hoping the problem would go away... that is not compassion, that is cowardice."

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COMMITMENTS

Cllr Pender also said that while welcomed the commitments to provide financial aid, healthcare supports, and housing, he also warned: "Survivors have heard promises before; words mean nothing without delivery.

"This support package must be implemented immediately and in full partnership with survivors, not buried in bureaucracy."

Cllr Pender also called for accountability regarding the handling of the situation: "We need to know who made the decisions to stonewall these survivors for so long.

"There must be a full, transparent review of how this was handled; If ministers or senior officials failed to act, they should answer for it.

"This entire situation shows how broken our system of government is when it comes to basic decency."

He concluded: "The States instinct should be to listen, not to silence... we can never claim to stand for justice while treating survivors like an inconvenience."

Cllr Pender's words echo similar sentiments expressed by his party's education spokesperson, Jen Cummins.

The Department of Education has been asked for comment in relation to Cllr Pender's statement.

UPDATE  Friday, November 14, 2025  10.49am - In response to the Leader's query, a Department spokesperson said: "Minister McEntee and the Taoiseach met with the group again on Monday, November 10 last. This followed on from previous meetings held and the mediation process that had been put in place.

"They further discussed the issues of concern to the survivors and noted progress that had been made in seeking a resolution.

"Following this the group agreed to cease their hunger strike protest and to use the mediation process to work through the detail on outstanding issues."

They added: "The aim is to conclude that process as soon as possible."

Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender. File photograph

READ NEXT: Kildare primary schools collaborate to encourage children off smartphones

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.
China-Africa cooperation reports, achievements shine at Global South Media and Think Tank Forum

Xinhua) 13:50, November 15, 2025

JOHANNESBURG, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- The newly released reports and achievements on China-Africa cooperation have drawn widespread attention at the Global South Media and Think Tank Forum China-Africa Partnership Conference, which kicked off Thursday in Johannesburg, South Africa.

One of the highlights at the conference is the Nyansapo Africa Knowledge Q&A System, developed by Hunan University's Institute of African Studies in central China's Hunan Province. The system integrates authoritative data sources, builds a specialized knowledge base, and applies advanced artificial intelligence technologies to provide Chinese enterprises with accurate, reliable, and timely information for investment and decision-making in Africa.

"'Nyansapo' means 'god of wisdom' in the Akan language of Ghana," said Xiao Hao, executive vice president of the research institute, adding that a solution tailored to Africa's knowledge system is needed to help bridge the information gap between the two sides.

Wen Chunhui, executive deputy director of the China-Africa Agricultural Development and Cooperation Base at Hunan Agricultural University, said the team will release five think-tank reports at the conference. These reports focus on key agricultural areas, including poverty reduction in Africa and full industrial chain cooperation in Africa's food sector.

Agriculture is a key area of China-Africa cooperation, crucial for food security, poverty reduction, and income growth, Wen said, noting that the reports aim to support the modernization of agriculture in both China and Africa.

At the conference, participants also highlighted the role of media and think tanks in promoting China-Africa cooperation.

"Cooperation between Chinese and African media and think tanks is playing a significant role in strengthening dialogue, promoting mutual understanding, and advancing common development goals," said Jonathan Titus-Williams, deputy minister of planning and economic development of Sierra Leone.

Pumela Msweli, executive dean and chief executive officer of the Graduate School of Business Leadership at the University of South Africa, emphasized that media think tanks have built a "circle of unity" of mutual understanding and interaction, driving the Global South toward a new realm of mutual learning among civilizations.

Monica Mpambawashe, managing partner at Zimbabwean media outlet Zimbabwe Now, said that media reports and think tank research help people better understand how Africa and China can achieve common development.

"In this process, Africa is no longer merely exporting resources but has grown into a true partner," she said.

Jointly hosted by China's Xinhua News Agency and the African Union, the conference attracted more than 200 representatives from over 160 mainstream media outlets, think tanks, government departments, and other institutions from China, 41 African countries, and the African Union.

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Liang Jun)
(Reuters) -China's BYD has told some suppliers it wants to stop using in-house financial notes to pay them, people briefed on the matter said - a seismic shift away from a practice that helped power its rise but has been criticised for disadvantaging its parts makers.

BYD, one of the world's biggest electric vehicle makers, now wants to use commercial paper or bank notes to pay suppliers rather than promissory notes issued on Dilian, an electronic platform it launched in 2018, the people said.

Reuters was unable to learn the scope of the shift and the sources, who declined to be named due to the sensitivity of the topic, did not provide a reason for the change.

But a brutal price war in the Chinese auto industry has battered parts suppliers who have complained about increasingly long periods before being paid and pressure from automakers to cut prices. That in turn has prompted authorities to issue new rules that seek to greatly shorten payment times and improve industry practices.

DILIAN NOT DIRECTLY REGULATED China-focused Auto Business Review also reported last week that BYD has, over the past two weeks, started to move away from Dilian notes to bank notes or commercial paper. BYD said in a statement to Reuters that its Dilian system falls within regulatory guidelines and it has sped up payments to suppliers this year, but it did not address queries about the move away from in-house notes. Banks that partner with BYD did not respond to requests for comment.

China's central bank, which regulates commercial paper and bank notes, declined to comment. With Dilian - whose Chinese name means "BYD supply chain" - BYD issues electronic IOUs, whereas other automakers in China generally use commercial paper, bank notes or cash, according to sources.Sources say that compared to commercial paper or bank notes, Dilian IOUs are not directly regulated by authorities and are perceived to carry a higher default risk. Cashing them in earlier than the set payment date can often cost more than bank notes.Dilian has helped BYD keep a tight lid on costs, and the automaker, which sells the vast majority of its cars in China, has managed to roll out new models at a dizzying pace. Analysts say the system allows the automaker to keep a large pile of cash on hand, meaning it does not need to rely much on other external sources of funding, which reduces its working capital costs. A shift away from Dilian could prove to be a headache for BYD at a time when sales are slowing, profits have fallen and it is planning to invest heavily overseas.
Minister of State for Special Education and Inclusion, Micheal Moynihan TD, visited Carrigallen Vocational School and Scoil Mhuire Primary School on Friday, 14 November, where he heard directly from staff about the significant pressure facing both schools due to lack of space, rapid enrolment growth and the ongoing absence of DEIS status in County Leitrim.

At Carrigallen Vocational School, Minister Moynihan was welcomed by Acting Principal Veronica Edwards, staff, and students. Also present were Eamon Scanlon TD, Martin Kenny TD, Cllr Gary Prior, Cllr Paddy ORourke (Chairperson of the Board of Management), Cllr Roisin Kenny, Mary Madden (Director of Schools, MSLETB), Peter Egan (Director of Further Education and Training), Declan Conboy, and students.

Acting Principal Veronica Edwards told the Minister: Carrigallen Vocational School has an exceptional track record in ensuring every student feels valued and supported, with inclusivity at the heart of our educational ethos.

She outlined the level of need within the school: Over 20% of our students require additional support. We provide ASD classes, moderate learning disability classes, learning support, and targeted English language support. Every child deserves the environment they need to thrive.

However, she warned that key facilities remain incomplete: We now have a state-of-the-art modular building, but the sensory rooms remain empty because the funding window closed before we had dedicated space. We urgently need retrospective grants so these rooms can finally serve the students they were built for.

Accommodation pressures were also highlighted: We are renting four off-site classrooms and a community hall for PE. Students are travelling half a kilometre for lessons, losing tuition time and access to specialist resources. This has a particularly negative impact on students with additional needs.

Edwards noted the strain this places on the wider school environment: We have over 330 students and our outdoor space has been drastically reduced. Staff facilities are also critically inadequate  55 staff share a tiny staff room and two toilets. Teachers deserve basic dignity if they are to deliver high-quality education.

On the lack of DEIS support, she added: Leitrim is the only county in Ireland without a post-primary school awarded DEIS status. Four of our feeder primary schools are DEIS. Our community is being left behind.

She concluded with an appeal: We ask for any support you can give in exploring whether Carrigallen Vocational School can become the first DEIS post-primary school in Leitrim.

The Minister toured both schools, meeting students in inclusive learning settings and hearing detailed briefings on the scale of need. Acknowledging the frustration, Minister Moynihan said that while he has no magic wand, he would do his best to push for fairness and ensure Leitrims concerns are heard at national level.

At Scoil Mhuire Primary School, Principal Alan O Ceallaigh presented a stark picture of capacity issues and unmet needs.

He told the Minister: We cant meet the current needs of our pupils within the facilities we have. We simply do not have the space required.

He emphasised the urgency of adequate activity space: We need a fair and equitable central activity space. At present, the 80 square metres proposed is nowhere near adequate for five special classes.

He described the strain on pupils with additional needs: Our special classes require proper movement breaks, sensory regulation space and room for integration  none of which we can currently provide.

O Ceallaigh said the lack of space affects the whole school: There is no space for school assemblies, no space for presentations, no space even to officially open the school when the project is completed.

Wet weather creates further challenges: On wet days our pupils with additional needs cannot go outside at all, yet we have no indoor space to safely de-escalate or regulate them.

He described teaching PE under severe constraints: PE is being taught in the courtyard  28 children in a line doing hops in the rain  because we have nowhere else to go.

Early intervention students are particularly affected: Early intervention children are arriving dysregulated and we have nowhere to bring them for regulation. Five minutes of the wrong smell on a replacement bus can set them back an hour.

Despite this, the school continues to meet local demand: We have always done everything we can for the NCSE and our local families. What we need now is fairness and equality for our children.

O Ceallaigh stressed that space is not the issue  design limits are: We are not constrained by space  we have an entire field available. The only thing stopping us is the design limit being imposed.

He noted the exceptional scale of provision in the community: There are ten special classes between this school and the secondary school. I dont think there is another rural community in Ireland doing what we are doing, without once being compelled.

Needs continue to grow: What worked five years ago does not work today. The needs are more complex, and our facilities have not kept pace.

And he ended with a message about the future: This is not for us  its for the children coming behind: the next generation who deserve parity with their peers elsewhere in Ireland.

In a statement to media after the visit, Minister Moynihan said: Im here on a fact-finding mission. I have no intention of travelling around the country making wild promises, but I have heard loud and clear what is being said by the school principal, the board of management and the ETB. I see the extent of what theyre facing, and we will continue to work with the schools.

READ MORE: Leitrim musicians honoured for success at Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann

Photos Marie Conboy
Sligo/Leitrim Senator Nessa Cosgrove has stated that it is vital that power lines are kept clear of possible disruption from falling trees in Leitrim.

She added that the county is one of the most overforested counties in the State with 20.1% of land area planted with forestry in 2022.

She was speaking after Minister Darragh O'Brien spoke about the Electricity Bill 2025 that will provide for 1.5 billion of an investment in the ESB. He said it's estimated that electricity demand will double by 2035 and expanding and modernising electricity grids is essential for a "secure, affordable and sustainable electricity system."

Senator Cosgrove continued that "the overreliance on shallow rooted giant Sitka spruce as a cash crop has caused social, economic and environmental problems, most immediately evident to the rest of the country through the disruption caused by Storm Darragh at the end of 2024, Storm Amy just last month and, most devastatingly, Storm Eowyn, which caused 768,000 customers to lose power on 24 January."

READ MORE: Leitrim county council needs a "couple of million" to clear LIS list

She noted that a Leitrim Observer article recently reported that the Minister of State, Deputy Healy-Rae, "was advocating for the planting of Christmas trees under power lines. He said the rationale behind this was that these would be harvested before they become big enough to pose a threat to the power lines. However, many of the Minister's colleagues on Leitrim County Council pointed out how flawed this plan was. Councillor Paddy O'Rourke, who is a Fianna Fail councillor, said that 25 years ago, enough Christmas trees had been planted to satisfy demand from a population of 20 million. These trees have now grown to maturity, and if they are under power lines, they pose a threat."

She added: "We can spend as much money as we like upgrading the ESB infrastructure, but unless we address the simple measures such as not planting trees underneath power lines, then we are not tackling this or taking it seriously. We in the north west know this more than ever."

She also commented on the growth in data centres stating that they "are using so much electricity that we are way off meeting our legally binding climate targets of reducing reliance on fossil fuels by 50% by 2030. Data centres currently use one fifth of all our electricity, which on projected use will rise to one third within the next few years. The pace of the growth of data centres is outstripping the work that we are doing towards the building of renewables. Data centres are using all the additional green energy we have generated over the past number of years, leaving nothing for society. We have upgrade projects in the north west - my area - such as the North-South interconnector, the north Connacht project and Flagford-Sligo capacity needs project. These should all be prioritised. These should make our grid stable for healthcare, residential customers and facilitate connections for newly constructed domestic dwellings. They should not be used to prioritise the building of more data centres. It is like robbing Peter to pay Paul."

READ MORE: Leitrim musicians honoured for success at Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann

She concluded: "The growth in data centres means that we are failing to decarbonise. We are generating more demand for fossil fuel-generated electricity. If we allow data centres to generate their own power, which has been talked about, and I have raised this because we in the north west are concerned about the use of that filthy LNG gas, we are going to compound this further. Of course we welcome the investment in the electricity grid, but we have to make sure that it is going to work cross-departmentally, that money can be spent wisely and that it chimes and is in accordance with our stated climate policy and our climate obligations that we are obliged to fulfil."
(Reuters) -China's BYD has told some suppliers it wants to stop using in-house financial notes to pay them, people briefed on the matter said - a seismic shift away from a practice that helped power its rise but has been criticised for disadvantaging its parts makers.

BYD, one of the world's biggest electric vehicle makers, now wants to use commercial paper or bank notes to pay suppliers rather than promissory notes issued on Dilian, an electronic platform it launched in 2018, the people said.

Reuters was unable to learn the scope of the shift and the sources, who declined to be named due to the sensitivity of the topic, did not provide a reason for the change.

But a brutal price war in the Chinese auto industry has battered parts suppliers who have complained about increasingly long periods before being paid and pressure from automakers to cut prices. That in turn has prompted authorities to issue new rules that seek to greatly shorten payment times and improve industry practices.

DILIAN NOT DIRECTLY REGULATED

China-focused Auto Business Review also reported last week that BYD has, over the past two weeks, started to move away from Dilian notes to bank notes or commercial paper.

BYD said in a statement to Reuters that its Dilian system falls within regulatory guidelines and it has sped up payments to suppliers this year, but it did not address queries about the move away from in-house notes. Banks that partner with BYD did not respond to requests for comment.

China's central bank, which regulates commercial paper and bank notes, declined to comment.

With Dilian - whose Chinese name means "BYD supply chain" - BYD issues electronic IOUs, whereas other automakers in China generally use commercial paper, bank notes or cash, according to sources.

Sources say that compared to commercial paper or bank notes, Dilian IOUs are not directly regulated by authorities and are perceived to carry a higher default risk. Cashing them in earlier than the set payment date can often cost more than bank notes.

Dilian has helped BYD keep a tight lid on costs, and the automaker, which sells the vast majority of its cars in China, has managed to roll out new models at a dizzying pace.

Analysts say the system allows the automaker to keep a large pile of cash on hand, meaning it does not need to rely much on other external sources of funding, which reduces its working capital costs. A shift away from Dilian could prove to be a headache for BYD at a time when sales are slowing, profits have fallen and it is planning to invest heavily overseas.
TWO Abbeyfeale brothers are celebrating after winning a prize in a cross-border competition.

Nick and Jack Cotter founded Cotter Agritech in 2019.

The pair developed SmartWorm, a mobile app which uses technology to check the health of each animal.

READ MORE: Well-loved Limerick city centre retailer to cease trading after more than 30 years

It looks at things like the animals body and environment to decide, in real time, whether it needs parasite treatment or not.

Ultimately, the technology helps farmers treat only the animals that actually need medicine instead of giving it to the whole herd or flock, lessening the cost of medication.

The firm has won a bronze medal in the inaugural North-South Business Co-Operation Awards.

It was established by Easyjet founder Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou to celebrate entrepreneurship across the island.

The awards, which culminated in a high-profile ceremony at Castle Leslie Estate in Monaghan, saw a total of nine entrepreneurs and entrepreneur businesses in partnership, recognised for their outstanding achievements in building businesses that bridge communities in Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland.

Cotter Agritech was among the bronze winners, and pocketed a total of 25,000.

Sir Haji-Ioannou said: This is a proud day for entrepreneurship on the island of Ireland. The winners we honour today show that when determination, innovation and creativity meet, borders become bridges.

These entrepreneurs are not only building successful businesses - they are proving that collaboration across communities leads to prosperity for all. They are creating jobs, delivering services and setting an example for the next generation of entrepreneurs.

I hope that their success today will encourage even more entrepreneurs to think ambitiously, work collaboratively, and see the entire island as a place of opportunity.

Winners were selected from applicants which could demonstrate cross-border trade, achieving a minimum turnover of 200,000, and employing at least three staff members.
STAFF at a research centre which design healthcare solutions for the future are celebrating after their firm was named overall winner of the Limerick Chamber Business Award 2025.

BD Research Centre Ireland, located at Castletroy, won the top award at the annual event which celebrates the achievements of businesses across the region.

More than 400 people were present at the Strand Hotel for the black-tie event on Friday night, which also saw the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) president Prof Vincent Cunnane honoured with a special award marking the service he has given to the Mid-West.

READ MORE: Tools, equipment and diesel stolen in overnight thefts on County Limerick farms

Also present was the Canadian Ambassador to Ireland Dennis King.

It was a second triumph of the night for BD Research Centre Ireland, which employs more than 300 people locally.

The company also won in the category of innovation and digital transformation.

It was something of a family affair for the Cunnane family, with Prof Cunnane's son Connor, a senior systems engineer at BD Reserch Centre Ireland, helping his employer to the title.

....And the winner of the top award at the @LimerickChamber #LimerickBiz awards is....



Huge congratulations to @BDandCo, which has picked up a second award tonight!



And what a reaction to the victory!



pic.twitter.com/HecmOGK0e2  Nick Rabbitts (@Nick468official) November 14, 2025

Were absolutely delighted to win this award. It is great to have an organisation like Limerick Chamber acknowledging the best of our city and region and the companies operating here. This award recognises the impact we are making in the region and will drive us to be even better," he said.

Also in the winners enclosure at the event - which is the highlight of Limericks business calendar - were Treaty Software, based in Upper Cecil Street in the city centre.

Annacotty company DSM, Data Storage and Managmeent was named best small to medium sized enterprise.

The award for sustainability and environmental leadership went to Johnson and Johnson Vision Care Ireland, at Plassey.

Another company based in that area, Cook Medical, was named the best employer.

Our Lady of Lourdes Community Services Group, based on the southside, won the best not for profit award.

University Concert Hall, located on campus at University of Limerick scooped the best retail and hospitality prize.

And the community impact award went to Dell Technologies, based in Raheen.

Dr Liam Brown, vice-president of award sponsors TUS, said: The stories behind tonights winners show the strength and potential of this region.
AT 88 YEARS old, Sigi Murrihy, originally from Germany and now a resident of Caherdavin Park, is spreading Christmas joy, one shoebox at a time.

For over a decade, Sigi has been part of Team Hopes annual shoebox appeal, helping bring gifts and hope to children affected by poverty across Africa and Eastern Europe.

Sigis passion for the cause is deeply personal as she remembers being a seven-year-old displaced child during the final year of World War II.

READ MORE: Young voices invited to shape the future at Limerick Youth Conference

After her hometown of Freiburg was bombed in November 1944, Sigi and her mother fled to their relatives in the mountain village of Prevorst.

I had no toys, I was very lonely and I had no friends, she recalled. One day my older cousins gave me an old brown paper bag. I opened it and out came a doll. And for me that was heaven.

I remember saying to my mother, We dont have to go home anymore! I have a doll!

Over the years, Sigis contribution to the shoebox appeal has grown remarkably. The first year I had two shoeboxes, she said. The second year I had four, and after that I had 64, then 124. The most I ever had was 230 shoeboxes.

Last year, she prepared 45 boxes, and she hopes to send between 40-50 this year.

I know that with very little, you can make great joy to somebody who practically has nothing, said Sigi.

I was in the slums in India, I was in Africa, and I have really seen poverty. If somebody would only pick up a shoebox and put in a few things, it doesnt cost much at all.

Those inspired by Sigis dedication can visit www.teamhope.ie to learn how they can also get involved.
THE BISHOP of Limerick has raised concerns about the scattering of ashes and extended eulogies, and urged families to uphold the reverence of Catholic rites.

Bishop Brendan Leahy explained in his pastoral letter: In recent times there has been a drifting from certain Church norms around the funeral Mass and burials.

For example, eulogies should not be mistaken for long homilies or memorial tributes that are out of tune with the ceremony, nor should we use secular songs that are not appropriate for the liturgy.

Regarding cremations, ashes are not to be scattered. Though often well-intentioned, these choices risk obscuring the truth of the funeral Mass and burial.

READ MORE: Limerick rallies to help homeless man found dying in forest build his forever home

He added that this is not to dismiss the personal expressions of grief and remembrance that accompany bereavement.

Bishop Leahy said: The Church recognises and honours them but invites families to place such tributes where and how they belong.

To uphold the Catholic Church traditions is not rigidity; it is reverence. It is our way of ensuring that, at every Christian funeral, we stand humbly before the mystery of death and affirm together the timeless hope of our faith.

The pastoral letter explores areas such as facing death; judgement, purgatory, heaven and hell; preparing for a funeral; praying for the dead; burial or cremation; and bereavement support. The bishop also said that death is not an end but a passage and that November is the time of year when people remember in a special way their loved-ones who have passed.

November is the month we dedicate to praying for those who have died. It is a time for us to reconnect with the true meaning of death and, as Christians, what we know above all is that death is not an end but a passage.

It is a return to the Father, who created us, Bishop Leahy stated. The Church, Bishop Leahy said, approaches death with both human tenderness and theological depth. We grieve because love has been interrupted, yet we believe that in Christ, death has been transformed. Every funeral, therefore, is both a moment of sorrow and a proclamation of faith.

The funeral rites of the Church are not simply ceremonies of farewell but acts of worship and prayer.
PROFESSOR Calvin Coffey, academic head of surgery at University Hospital Limerick and foundation chair of surgery at the University of Limerick, has been formally recognised as one of the worlds leading master clinicians.

The talented professor has been awarded the Ian Lavery Master Clinician in Colorectal Surgery Lectureship and Visiting Professorship - the highest honour bestowed by the Department of Colorectal Surgery at the Cleveland Clinic, one of the worlds foremost surgical institutions.

This prestigious award, established to celebrate the legacy of Dr Ian C Lavery, honours a Cleveland Clinic alumnus who exemplifies surgical excellence, innovation, and mentorship. Dr Lavery, a pioneer in colorectal surgery, transformed the treatment of colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease, and is revered globally for his clinical skill, humility, and dedication to teaching.

Prof Coffey joins a distinguished lineage of recipients, recognised not only for their technical mastery but also for their impact on surgical education and patient care. His own contributions include leading the introduction of robotic-assisted colorectal, urological, and gynaecological surgery at UHL, positioning the hospital as a national leader in minimally invasive surgery.

READ MORE: Young voices invited to shape the future at Limerick Youth Conference

In 2017, Prof Coffey gained international acclaim for reclassifying the mesentery as a new human organ, reshaping abdominal anatomy and prompting updates to authoritative texts like Grays Anatomy.

Building on this research, Prof Coffey developed a surgical technique involving mesenteric removal during bowel resection, dramatically reducing Crohns disease recurrence rates from 40% to 4%. His work is also recognised by the Swedish Surgical Society, which awarded him the Bengt Ihre Lectureship and Silver Medal in 2022.

For Prof Coffey, the Ian Lavery Master Clinician Award is a personal honour that also recognises the high standards of the work that he and his colleagues do in UHL and UL every day, with the true prize being the benefits for patients, whether here in the Mid-West or nationally and internationally.

On behalf of the team of people I work with, Im delighted to receive the 2025 Ian Lavery Master Clinician Award in recognition of our work at University Hospital Limerick. The award acknowledges the ongoing commitment of us all here at UHL and across the acute hospitals of the Mid-West, and the University of Limerick, to provide surgery of the highest international standards.
AN INDEPENDENT documentary-maker has created a film about the history of a small rural village and its decline and revival over time, with strong historical links to Limerick.

Loughmore to the Front includes strong links to Limerick, as the creator, Nicholas Ryan Purcell discovered that his ancestor Nicholas Purcell from Loughmore Castle, Co Tipperary fought with King James and was one of the signatories of the Treaty of Limerick.

The film also includes footage from Limerick Museum on Henry Street, which Mr Purcell said was very impressive, as it houses original cannonballs from when Sarsfield Bridge and the drawbridge to King Johns Castle were blown up and that staff from the museum were a wealth of historical information for his research.

READ ALSO: Philanthropists and businesses urged to support start-up fund for Limerick innovators

There are also sketches of what the drawbridge would have looked like, Mr Ryan Purcell said.

He added that historian John Elliott was a huge help: He was instrumental in my research in Limerick city and in helping to simplify the story of the siege.

The site of the 1690 ambush of the siege train at Sarsfield Rock in Ballyneety, also features in the documentary.

A civil servant in his day job, Mr Ryan Purcell is a hurling and history enthusiast and this documentary is a self-funded passion project.

The 95-minute documentary was a year and four months in the making. It was achieved with the help of Tom Gallagher from Thurles as assistant editor.

The cinematic file was then created by Eugene Tobin and his colleague Janos in Dungarvan.

The idea came from Catherine Purcell Maher and Mary Fogarty in the Cottage Tearooms in Loughmore, a community run tearoom and Monsignor Maurice Dooley in the parish gave me extra information about my ties to Limerick, said Mr Ryan Purcell, adding that his mother Dorothy has always been a great supporter of his documentary projects.

Young children feature in the film seen trying to puck a sliotar over Loughmore Castle, in an effort to emulate Cuchulainn and Mr Ryan Purcell said: The kids were absolutely delighted.

He added that he paused filming every time a car passed, while there was also a large bird trying to be heard as he filmed and that this was the most challenging part, laughing as he recalled trying to coax the bird into silence for filming his shots.

The Loughmore to the Front documentary will be screened in Limerick Omniplex on Monday, November 17 at 7.30pm and in Nenagh Omniplex on Wednesday, November 19 at 7.30pm.

Tickets for the documentary screening can be booked online on www.omniplex.ie in advance anytime from now until the night of the Limerick screening next Monday.
THERE was significant Limerick success at the 2025 SSE Airtricity Women's Premier Division Awards in Dublin on Friday night.

Limerick teenager Madison McGuane, of Treaty United, won the prestigious SSE Airtricity Womens Premier Division Young Player of the Year Award accolade.

Midfielder McGuane, who finished her debut season at senior level with five goals, was voted ahead of Aoibhe Brennan (Bohemians), Ellen Dolan, Mary Phillips (Peamount United), Ella Kelly (Shamrock Rovers) and Bonnie McKiernan (Sligo Rovers).

McGuane scooped the Womens Under-17 International Player of the Year accolade earlier this year after enjoying a terrific season.

The Treaty midfielder came through the club ranks at Pike Rovers schoolboy teams and was the only girl on the U12 boys Pike Rovers team in 2022 who famously won the National Cup. McGuane was one of the Pike goalscorers in the 2-0 victory over St Kevins Boys.

READ NEXT: Former Limerick and Galway hurling stars team up for big race success in Naas

McGuane, who attends Ardscoil Mhuire in Corbally, has also had an impressive international career and was one of two girls from Limerick girls to be part of the Republic of Ireland Schools U15 side during the Bob Docherty Cup squad in March 2023.

She scored four goals this year for her country in Irish under 15 and Irish under 16 games. McGuane signed for Treaty United's Carelon Academy after departing Pike Rovers at the start of the 2024 season.

McGuane quickly established herself at League of Ireland level with power-house midfield performances contributing goals and assists for her WU17 team who reached the elite phase as well as the quarter-final of the Academy Cup. The teenager signed a first-team deal last December after an incredible first season with the clubs WU17 side.

The highly-rated teenager impressed for the Treaty United senior side throughout the Women's Premier Division in 2025.

Treaty United were represented in the SSE Airtricity Womens Premier Division Team of the Year with the inclusion of striker Bella Flocchini. Flocchini lost out to Athlone's Kelly Brady in the SSE Airtricity Womens Premier Division Player of the Year category.

Former Treaty United manager Sean Russell lost out on the SSE Airtricity Womens Premier Division Manager of the Year accolade which was won by Bohemians Alban Hysa.
Coty Inc. (NYSE:COTY) is one of the best cheap stocks under $10 to buy now. Canaccord Genuity analyst Susan Anderson maintained a Hold rating on Coty Inc. (NYSE:COTY) on November 7, keeping the associated price target at $4.00.

Why Coty Inc. (COTY) Surged On Thursday

Coty Inc. (NYSE:COTY) reported its fiscal Q1 2026 results for the quarter ended September 30, 2025, which were largely in line with expectations. Net revenue dropped 6% on a reported basis to $1.577 billion, including a 2% benefit from FX. Net revenue declined 8% on an LFL basis.

In addition, adjusted EPS of $0.12 dropped from adjusted EPS of $0.15 in the prior year period, and included a negative impact of $0.03 from the equity swap mark-to-market. Coty Inc. (NYSE:COTY) is experiencing challenges such as the destocking and competitive pressures in the Consumer Beauty domain, along with uncertainties surrounding the Gucci fragrance license, strategic review of the companys Brazilian and mass cosmetics businesses, and the potential sale of Coty Inc.s (NYSE:COTY) remaining stake in Wella.

However, Coty Inc. (NYSE:COTY) expressed confidence in returning to profitable sales growth in H2 2026 and beyond, supported by the companys strengthening execution, especially in the US market, along with market-leading fragrance innovations and strategic initiatives.

Coty, Inc. (NYSE:COTY) is a beauty company that operates a portfolio of brands in color cosmetics, fragrance, and skin and body care. Its Prestige segment operates an array of luxury brands, including Gucci, Marc Jacobs, Miu Miu, Tiffany & Co., Kylie Cosmetics by Kylie Jenner, Hugo Boss, Burberry, Chloe, Calvin Klein, SKKN BY KIM, and more. Coty, Inc.s (NYSE:COTY) mass beauty products are primarily sold through supermarkets, hypermarkets, drugstores, department stores, e-commerce retailers, and other channels.

While we acknowledge the potential of COTY as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
As a graduate student in the 1980s, Yann LeCun had trouble finding an adviser for his Ph.D. thesis on machine learningbecause no one else was studying the topic, he recalled later.

More recently, hes become the odd man out at Meta. Despite worldwide renown as one of the godfathers of artificial intelligence, he has been increasingly sidelined as the companys approach diverged from his views on the technologys future. On Tuesday, news broke that he may soon be leaving Meta to pursue a startup focused on so-called world models, technology that LeCun thinks is more likely to advance the state of AI than Metas current language models.

Meta Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg has been pouring countless billions into the pursuit of what he calls superintelligence," hiring an army of top researchers tasked with developing its large language model, Llama, into something that can outperform ChatGPT and Googles Gemini.

LeCun, by his choice, has taken a different direction. He has been telling anyone who asks that he thinks large language models, or LLMs, are a dead end in the pursuit of computers that can truly outthink humans. Hes fond of comparing the current start-of-the-art models to the mind of a catand he believes the cat to be smarter. Several years ago, he stepped back from managing his AI division at Meta, called FAIR, in favor of a role as an individual contributor doing long-term research.

Ive been not making friends in various corners of Silicon Valley, including at Meta, saying that within three to five years, this [world models, not LLMs] will be the dominant model for AI architectures, and nobody in their right mind would use LLMs of the type that we have today," the 65-year-old said last month at a symposium at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

LeCun has been talking to associates about creating a startup focused on world models, recruiting colleagues and speaking to investors, The Wall Street Journal previously reported. A world model learns about the world around it by taking in visual information, much like a baby animal or young child does, versus LLMs, which are predictive models based on vast databases of text.

LeCun didnt respond to requests for comment, and Meta declined to comment.

Early innovations

LeCun was born in Paris, raised in the citys suburbs and attended whats now known as the Sorbonne University in France in the 1980s. While getting his Ph.D., he married his wife, Isabelle, and they had the first of their three sons. A woodwind musician, he played traditional Breton music for a Renaissance dance troupe.

Always ahead of the curve, LeCun studied machine learning before it was en vogue. He worked in Nobel Prize winner Geoffrey Hintons AI lab in Toronto before Hinton became an AI legend, and spent much of his early professional career in New Jersey at Bell Labs, the institute famous for the sheer number of inventions that came out of it.

The thing that excites me the most is working with people who are smarter than me, because it amplifies your own abilities," LeCun told Wired magazine in 2023.

At Bell, LeCun helped develop handwriting-recognition technology that became widely used by banks to read checks automatically. He also worked on a project to digitize and distribute paper documents over the internet.

LeCun, whos said hes always been interested in physics, mostly worked with physicists at Bell and read a number of physics textbooks.

I learned a lot by reading things that are not apparently connected with AI or computer science (my undergraduate degree is in electrical engineering, and my formal CS training is pretty small)," he said during a Reddit ask-me-anything session 12 years ago.

In 2003, LeCun started teaching computer science at New York University, and later he became the founding director of NYUs Center for Data Science. When hes in New York, he has been known to frequent the citys jazz clubs.

In 2013, Zuckerberg personally recruited him to head up a new AI division at what was then called Facebook. LeCun oversaw the lab for four years, stepping down in 2018 to become an individual contributor and Facebooks chief AI scientist.

He won the 2018 A.M. Turing Award, the highest prize in computer science, along with Hinton and Yoshua Bengio. The award honored their foundational work on neural networks, multilayered systems that underlie many powerful AI systems, from OpenAIs chatbots to self-driving cars.

Since then, LeCun, who speaks with a light French accent and is known for wearing black Ray-Ban glasses and collared shirts, has largely become a figurehead for the company. He wasnt part of the team that helped create Metas first open-source large language model, called Llama, and he hasnt been involved in the day-to-day operations of their development since.

LeCun works on his own projects and travels to conferences, talking about Metas AI glasses and his own views on the path to AI advancement, among other things, people who have worked with him said.

Leon Bottou, a longtime friend of LeCuns, previously told The Wall Street Journal that hes stubborn in a good way," meaning he is willing to listen to others views, but has strong convictions of his own.

He also holds strong opinions on a variety of other topics. I am everything the religious right despises," he wrote on his website: a scientist, an atheist, a leftist (by American standards at least), a university professor, and a Frenchman."

Breaking away

Most of his recent takes have been knocks on the LLMs at the center of Zuckerbergs ambitionsand also of nearly every other major tech companys.

We are not going to get to human-level AI just by scaling LLMs," he said on Alex Kantrowitzs Big Technology podcast this spring. Theres no way, absolutely no way, and whatever you can hear from some of my more adventurous colleagues, its not going to happen within the next two years. Theres absolutely no way in hell topardon my French."

This summer, as part of a major restructuring, Zuckerberg named 28-year-old Alexandr Wang as Metas new chief AI officerLeCuns new bossand ChatGPT co-creator Shengjia Zhao as Metas new chief scientist.

Employees inside Metas thousand-person-plus AI division started asking each other: Whats going to happen to Yann LeCun?

Some viewed the announcements as LeCun being cast aside after not getting onboard with Zuckerbergs AI vision.

There is no change in Yanns role. He will continue to be Chief Scientist for FAIR!" the CEO posted on his social media app, Threads, in July, referring to the AI division that he hired LeCun to lead over a decade ago. FAIR is shorthand for the Fundamental AI Research group.

Im looking forward to working with Shengjia," LeCun replied in a comment.

In recent months though, LeCuns once burgeoning AI division has faced job cuts and fewer resources, and has become less prestigious internally, according to current and former employees.

For a long time, the division, helmed by LeCun, was seen as a place to discuss lofty ideas about the future of artificial intelligence, conduct experiments that may or may not pan out, and not give too much thought to how their research breakthroughs might be turned into actual products someday.

Now, Metas new AI research organization, full of fresh hires making millions of dollars, is being led by Wang, who is pushing the teams to make rapid breakthroughs and quickly turn those advancements into products.

LeCun, meanwhile, has been tromping through Asia and Europe and speaking at conferences. In one such talk earlier this year, he doled out advice to aspiring researchers: If you are a Ph.D. student in AI, you should absolutely not work on LLMs."

Write to Meghan Bobrowsky at meghan.bobrowsky@wsj.com
WASHINGTON : Amazon.com is joining Microsoft in supporting legislation that threatens to further limit Nvidias ability to export to China, a rare split between the chip designer and two of its biggest customers.

The moves by Microsoft and Amazon to work against a company they are deeply intertwined with highlights the fierce nature of the artificial-intelligence race. The companies are all jockeying for favorable policy to stay ahead of competitors. Nvidia is fighting for access to the lucrative Chinese market despite security concerns.

The legislation would require chip firms to satisfy U.S. demand before sending products to China and other countries subject to arms embargoes. It is one of the first efforts by Congress to address chip exports, which are vital for the data centers that train AI models.

Microsoft publicly came out in favor of the legislation, known as the Gain AI Act. Officials at Amazons cloud unit have privately told Senate staffers they also support it, congressional aides and people familiar with the matter said. The policy would give tech firms including Microsoft and Amazon preferential access to chips at their data centers around the world.

The backing from two of the worlds biggest tech companies could boost the act despite opposition from some White House officials, Nvidia and other semiconductor companies, experts say. Peers Meta Platforms and Alphabets Google havent taken a position and neither has President Trump, the people said.

Anthropic, a top AI model developer that generally supports export restrictions and uses chips from Nvidia, Amazon and Google, is also supporting the policy, the people said.

Congress is weighing whether to include the act as an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act, which typically lands on the presidents desk by the end of the year. The policy has won support from key Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D., N.Y.), but still likely needs to get the approval of Senate Banking Committee Chair Tim Scott (R., S.C.) and top House Republicans to move forward.

Nvidia Chief Executive Jensen Huang frequently talks to Trump about AI policy, and the company has ramped up its lobbying this year. It spent nearly $3.5 million in the first three quarters of the year, up from $640,000 in all of 2024, according to data provider OpenSecrets.

The Gain AI Act is testing Nvidias influence in Washington. It would include an exemption for tech companies and other trusted entities that would no longer need export licenses approved by the government when sending chips to regions such as the Middle East. That provision has won over Microsoft and Amazon, who have faced delays getting export licenses and would potentially gain a leg up on competitors.

Nvidia is the worlds dominant chip designer and controls roughly 80% of the market for AI processors. It has been rare for customers to publicly disagree with the company or take opposing policy positions.

Usually the tension between hyperscalers and Nvidia is about the product itself and pricing," said Ray Wang, lead semiconductor analyst at the Futurum Group, a research and advisory firm, referring to the rapidly growing tech firms. Right now that tension is getting more complicated."

Nvidia and other chip companies say the act would mark an unnecessary intervention in the semiconductor market that could open the door to more export restrictions. Tech executives have said they have enough chips in the U.S. and power is the AI industrys main bottleneck.

Amazon Web Services, Microsoft and Nvidia declined to comment. Last month, Gerry Petrella, general manager of U.S. public policy at Microsoft, said at a conference that the policy looked really positive."

White House AI czar David Sacks and other administration officials have told Sen. Jim Banks (R., Ind.), the acts sponsor, and his staff that the policy would have a limited impact because the Commerce Department already has the power to oversee chip exports, some of the people said.

Supporters of the act say it is a proactive way to guard against future shortages and benefit U.S. tech companies. Banks has joined Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D., Mass.) in criticizing Nvidias exports to China. The White House didnt respond to a request for comment.

Write to Amrith Ramkumar at amrith.ramkumar@wsj.com
Chinese tech giant Alibaba denied allegations that it helped Beijing target the United States, calling a recent media report completely false, AFP reported.

According to a White House memo cited by the Financial Times (FT), on Saturday, Alibaba is reportedly providing tech support for Chinese military operations against the United States.

What were the allegations against Alibaba? The memo noted that Alibaba provides customer data, such as "IP addresses, WiFi details, and payment records," to Chinese authorities and the People's Liberation Army (PLA). However, FT stated it was unable to independently verify the claims, mentioning that the White House considers the actions a threat to US security.

What did Alibaba say? Addressing the accusations, an Alibaba Group spokesperson told AFP the assertions and innuendos in the article are completely false.

The company called the memo a malicious PR operation (that) clearly came from a rogue voice looking to undermine President Trump's recent trade deal with China, the report said.

The conflict highlights ongoing tensions between Beijing and Washington, both countries aiming for technological dominance.

After returning to the White House earlier this year, US President Donald Trump, trade tensions between the world's two largest economies escalated.

Following months of imposing tariffs on each other, Trump and Xi Jinping reached a one-year truce in late October.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for China's embassy in the United States also refuted the claims made in the reported memo.

"The Chinese government... will never require companies or individuals to collect or provide data located in foreign countries in violation of local laws," Liu Pengyu wrote on X.

Concerns over spying The report also mentions the growing worries in the US regarding China's possible deployment of advanced spying technology.

California-based artificial intelligence company Anthropic on Thursday said that it had identified and thwarted what it called the first recorded cyber-espionage operation carried out primarily by autonomous AI systems.

Anthropic said that the activities were attributed to a "Chinese state-sponsored group" designated as GTG-1002.

Meanwhile, in a news conference on Friday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said he was not familiar with the specifics, when asked about the report, further noting that Beijing had consistently stood up against hacking activities.
(Bloomberg) -- BNP Paribas SA asked a judge to throw out a $20.75 million verdict against the bank in favor of three former Sudanese refugees who claimed the bank was responsible for funding the regime responsible for widespread human rights abuses.

BNP argued that Swiss law, which was the legal basis of the suit against the bank, doesnt permit the claims and that they failed to prove their case in a five-week trial in Manhattan federal court that ended last month. The bank said the amount of damages awarded in the case was excessive.

These awards far exceed  by more than an order of magnitude  any amounts that have ever been awarded by Swiss courts for similar injuries, BNP said in a court filing late Friday.

BNP asked US District Judge Alvin Hellerstein, who presided over the trial, to reject the verdict and rule for the defense on the claims, or to at least order a new trial. The request is a long shot, as the judge had rejected many of the arguments before trial. BNP has said it will appeal.

Plaintiffs believe that BNPs motions lack merit and are confident they will prevail, as they repeatedly have over the past decade, David Hecht, a lawyer for thousands of US residents who say they were brutalized by Sudans dictatorship between 1997 and 2011, said in an email Saturday.

Sudanese refugees sued in 2016, alleging that BNP helped the regime bank oil revenues, in violation of US sanctions, helping the countrys ruling regime maintain power and fund a campaign of repression. BNP has said it provided normal, essential financial services in Sudan and that the victims cant connect those services to the injuries they suffered.

BNP Paribas shares plunged as much as 10.6% in the wake of the trial, which was the first test of the plaintiffs claims before a jury, amid concerns over the potential for billions of dollars in potential liability.

The case is Kashef v. BNP Paribas, 16-cv-03228, US District Court, Southern District of New York (Manhattan).

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
Google is planning to invest $40 billion in Texas through 2027 to develop new cloud computing and artificial intelligence infrastructure, marking the tech giant's latest in a series of massive technology investments in the US.

The investment will support the development of new data centre campuses in northern Texas, expanding Google's presence in the Lone Star State of the US.

Weve called Texas home for more than 15 years, and today, we're announcing a new $40 billion investment in the Lone Star State through 2027. This funding will help build new cloud and AI infrastructure, including new data centre campuses in Armstrong and Haskell Counties, Google said in a blog post on November 14.

"Our latest investment in Texas is designed to not only support Texas' workforce and infrastructure, but to ensure the US retains the technical backbone to lead the world in AI," it added.

Google has committed to introduce new energy resources to the grid and cover costs related to its operations while backing community energy efficiency initiatives.

The latest investment in the US state includes a new $30 million Energy Impact Fund to scale and accelerate energy initiatives, along with more than 6,200 megawatts of new energy generation and capacity through power purchase agreements with energy developers.

In its most recent earnings call, the company projected 2025 capital expenditures of $91-$93 billion amid significant investments in data centres and computing capacity to support its AI goals.

Also Read | Google warns about global smishing ring stealing millions via text scams

Growing investments in Texas Google's announcement maintains a trend of major technology firms making significant investments in Texas.

The deregulated energy market and availability of renewable sources make the state appealing for data centre growth. However, the increasing energy consumption of these facilities raises concerns about grid stability, especially after the 2021 winter storms that led to widespread outages, AP reported.

OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has made a major commitment with its $500 billion "Stargate" project, featuring a flagship data centre campus in Abilene, Texas.

Facebook's parent Meta has invested billions in data centres in Fort Worth, and Tesla moved its headquarters to Austin in 2021, also establishing a large manufacturing facility there.
(Bloomberg) -- Lars Rebien Sorensen is back as chairman of Novo Nordisk A/S following a shareholder meeting that exposed the depth of rivalry between the Danish drugmaker and US arch nemesis Pfizer Inc.

The executive, who brought Novos first weight-loss shot to market, had to spend part of the meeting explaining why proposed board member, Mikael Dolsten, 67, withdrew just a day ago because of an issue with a former employer.

Sorensen didnt name the company, but Dolsten is the former chief scientific officer at Pfizer Inc., which beat Novo less than a week ago in a $10 billion bidding war over obesity biotech Metsera Inc.

We had very much looked forward to working together with Mikael Dolsten, Sorensen said. We hope that he might return at a later point in time. Hes welcome any time in the Novo family.

Pfizers acquisition of Metsera closed on Thursday making Novo and its US rival clear competitors in the hottest and fastest-growing pharmaceutical market. Pfizer didnt immediately return a request for comment.

The meeting on Friday capped a tumultuous few weeks for Novo after a dispute over the pace of change at the struggling maker of the blockbuster drugs Ozempic and Wegovy led to more than half the supervisory board resigning last month. The outcome was a foregone conclusion as Sorensen, who ran Novo for 16 years, also heads the Novo Nordisk Foundation, the controlling shareholder that holds 77% of the companys voting rights.

Sorensen was approved to lead the supervisory board based on winning more than 93% of the proxy and postal votes. Dolstens withdrawal leaves the board needing to nominate two additional candidates at the next shareholder meeting in March.

Minority Investors

Some of Novos prominent minority investors said they were would reject the revamp, including Norways sovereign wealth fund and CalSTRS, the pension fund for California educators. Influential proxy adviser Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. recommended that holders abstain, saying the overhaul shows limited transparency and accountability to minority shareholders.

Sorensen said he would seek a new chairman for the foundation and would also like to make myself redundant as quickly as possible on the Novo board.

Minority investors must now wait to see if Sorensens decision to gut the board and pin Novos recovery plan on himself and his aggressive and ambitious new chief executive officer, Mike Doustdar, is the right one.

The Sorensen-Doustdar duo has already shown an appetite for risk so far with their high-profile, but ultimately unsuccessful, attempt to gatecrash Pfizers deal to buy Metsera. The tussle went all the way to the Oval Office, where Doustdar challenged Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla to raise his bid.

We have gotten a warrior as a CEO for the company, Sorensen said Friday. I think that is what he called himself in interviews and certainly we have not been lacking in activity in the company.

That kind of brinkmanship may be exactly what investors dont want.

Novo needs to evaluate future deals more carefully and definitely take much less risk than they did with the Metsera pursuit, said Markus Manns, a portfolio manager at Union Investment in Frankfurt. The company now needs to come up with a sound and sustainable strategy for regaining market share from arch rival Eli Lilly & Co. and diversifying its portfolio, said Manns.

What I dont want are bold actions or risky deals, he said.

Gloves Are Off

Novo is facing an uphill climb in the obesity market after losing its lead to Lilly and disappointing with its next-generation experimental drug CagriSema. While rivals are moving forward with novel compounds, Novos next offerings are reworked versions of its existing drugs, putting Wegovy in a pill or in a higher-dose shot.

Sorensens elevation, almost a decade after he left the CEO job, gives him a second chance to reshape the drugmaker.

During his 16 years at the helm, Sorensen oversaw a 400% sales boost as well as the introduction of Saxenda, the precursor to Wegovy. But by the end of his tenure, Novo was facing an insulin price squeeze that hit both its profits and share price. His successor, Lars Fruergaard Jorgensen, captained the introduction of Ozempic and Wegovy and Novos vault into the top ranks of global drugmakers.

The company failed to capitalize on its first-mover advantage and is now grappling to regain the lead following a brutal board restructuring that clashed with Novos usually consensual culture.

I think its a good thing, said Sebastien Malafosse, a portfolio manager at Edmond de Rothschild Asset Management. Sorensen was a very successful CEO of Novo before.

In the weeks since Doustdar and Sorensen took the reins, Novo has announced layoffs for 11% of the company, axed longtime pet projects such as an effort to cure diabetes using stem cells, and started the bidding war with Pfizer.

The velvet gloves are off, said Hanne Sindbaek, a Danish author who has written three books about Novo, in reference to the Pfizer bidding war. Now they realize its a rough market, and we have to play rough.

--With assistance from Madison Muller.

(Updates with details and management comments from extraordinary meeting throughout.)

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
The Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), India's largest IT firm, has received a notice from the Labour Commissioner Office in Pune following months of job terminations as the company plans to lay off 2% of its workforce.

The Labour Commissioner's office sent the summons to the company after the Nascent Information Technology Employees Senate (NITES) filed multiple complaints about the ongoing TCS layoffs, the IT employee protection organisation said.

The Labour Commissioner Office, Pune has issued summons to Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) in multiple matters filed by NITES concerning illegal termination of employment and unlawful layoffs, NITES said in a post on X.

The hearing for the matter has been scheduled for November 18.

Also Read | TCS headcount falls by nearly 20,000, NITES accuses of downplaying layoffs

Over the past several months, NITES has received a large number of complaints from TCS employees across various locations regarding abrupt terminations, forced resignations, denial of statutory dues, and coercive employment practices, the organisation said.

In the June-September quarter, TCS reported a massive drop in its employee count as it plans to lay off thousands of workers amid an AI push. The Q3 report showed that there was a drop of 20,000 in the net number of employees at the company as compared to the same period last year.

NITES had at the time said that the IT major had downplayed the numbers.

Data showed that TCS's total workforce count witnessed a 19,755 fall to 593,314 as of the second quarter of the financial year 2025-26, compared to their 613,069 headcount level as of the end of the first quarter of the fiscal year.

NITES urges more TCS workers to come forward NITES said it had helped laid off TCS workers to file legal complaints against TCS, which prompted the Pune labour commissioner to take action.

The organisation further urged employees facing similar situation to come forward if they have experienced wrongful termination, forced resignation, non-payment of dues, or any form of pressure or unfair treatment, assuring them of legal protections.

Raising your grievance formally is an important step toward ensuring accountability and safeguarding your employment rights. NITES remains committed to supporting IT and ITES employees who require guidance or assistance in filing complaints or understanding available legal remedies, it said.

TCS layoffs Mint reported earlier this year that TCS plans to cut jobs of around 12,000 employees or up to 2% of its global workforce in the financial year 2025-26. The IT giant aims to focus on restructuring plans amid the push for artificial intelligence (AI).

Chief Human Resources Officer Sudeep Kunnumal however dismissed media reports, saying that the numbers had been inflated.
BEIJING : Tesla is now requiring its suppliers to exclude China-made components in the manufacturing of its cars in the U.S., a fresh example of the fallout from deepening geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China.

Earlier this year, the electric-vehicle maker decided that it would stop using China-based suppliers for Tesla cars that are made in the U.S., according to people familiar with the situation. Tesla and its suppliers have already replaced some China-made components with parts made elsewhere. Tesla is aiming to switch all other components to those made outside of China in the next year or two, some of the people said.

Tesla has been trying to reduce its dependence on China-made components for its U.S. cars since the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted the flow of goods from China, encouraging its China-based suppliers to make components elsewhere including in Mexico. But this year, after President Trump imposed stiff tariffs on Chinese imports, the company accelerated the strategy to cut out Chinese parts, the people said.

China is a major producer and exporter of auto partsincluding chips and batteriesand materials that go inside cars. Many of them are cheaper due to Chinas huge production scale, lower costs and weak currency.

Tesla executives have been grappling with the uncertainty brought by fluctuating tariff levels in the U.S.-China trade battle, which has made it difficult for the carmaker to formulate a coherent pricing strategy, some of the people said.

The geopolitical tensions between Washington and Beijing and the fallout on the global auto supply chain have only intensified Teslas urgency in pursuing the China-free strategy. In recent weeks, fresh disruptions in the supply of automotive chips stemming from a spat between China and the Netherlands have triggered discussions at Tesla about the need to accelerate diversification, some of the people said.

Tesla didnt respond to a request for comment.

Teslas strategy is the latest example of how trade and geopolitical tensions are driving a decoupling of the worlds two largest economies and increasingly redrawing global supply chains. Many American companies are seeking to exclude China-made components or manufacture outside of China when it comes to products for the U.S. market. In turn, Chinese technology companies are erasing American components and technology from their supply chains.

The auto industry has been hit particularly hard by China-U.S. friction because of the global nature of its supply chains and business. This spring, automakers were rattled after China imposed export restrictions on certain rare earths and magnets that are widely used in cars and their production. More recently, carmakers have struggled to secure chips after China blocked the export of semiconductors made by a firm called Nexperia that are used in car lights and electronics.

Nexperia is a Dutch company whose chips are largely manufactured in Europe but ultimately are exported to the world from China, where processing and packaging take place. China blocked the export of the chips after the Dutch government seized control of Nexperia from its Chinese parent, which is on a U.S. trade blacklist.

The Dutch and Chinese governments are still fighting over the issue, even though Beijing has allowed Nexperia chips to be shipped out to some overseas customers following a summit last month between Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

The U.S. is Teslas biggest market, and Tesla vehicles running on American roads are produced at the carmakers factories in the U.S. In China, Tesla produces cars at its Shanghai plant using mostly locally produced components. The Shanghai-made cars are shipped both within China and overseas, mostly to Asia and Europe, but not to the U.S.

Over the years, Chinese suppliers that Tesla has been working with in China have increasingly been shipping parts globally for the carmakers factories elsewhere. A China-based executive said earlier this year that the Shanghai factory had some 400 direct Chinese suppliers, more than 60 of which had supplied Teslas global production.

Tesla has been pursuing a strategy of cutting back on made-in-China components for its U.S. cars since Trumps first administration. As a part of this approach, Tesla has worked with its Chinese suppliersincluding those making seat covers and metal casingsto set up factories and warehouses in Mexico and Southeast Asia in recent years, people familiar with the project said.

One Chinese-made component that Tesla is struggling to substitute is the lithium-iron phosphate battery. Chinas Contemporary Amperex Technology, or CATL, has been a major supplier to Tesla for the battery, known as LFP.

Until last year, Tesla was selling cars in the U.S. with Chinese-produced LFP batteries, but since then it stopped doing so, because they became ineligible for EV-related tax credits and also due to U.S. tariffs.

Tesla is working to build LFP batteries for energy-storage products in the U.S. In October, the company said it expected its facility in Nevada making such battery products to start running in the first quarter of 2026.

Tesla Chief Financial Officer Vaibhav Taneja said in April that the company was working on manufacturing LFP cells in the U.S., and on securing additional supply chain from non-China-based suppliers."

But it will take time," he said.

Write to Raffaele Huang at raffaele.huang@wsj.com and Yoko Kubota at yoko.kubota@wsj.com
Apple is intensifying its succession planning efforts as Tim Cook prepares to step down as CEO as early as next year, according to a report by the Financial Times on Friday.

Cook took over as CEO in 2011 after Steve Jobs stepped down, marking the end of his leadership at the technology company he co-founded in a garage.

The iPhone manufacturer is unlikely to name a new CEO until after its next earnings report in late January, which includes the important holiday season period, the report said.

Also Read | How Tim Cook evaded disaster at Apple this year

Who is likely to succeed Tim Cook? John Ternus, Apple's senior vice president of hardware engineering, is potentially seen as Cook's successor, the FT reported, citing several people familiar with discussions.

Who is John Ternus? John Ternus is currently serving as Apples senior vice president of Hardware Engineering, reporting directly to CEO Tim Cook. He oversees all hardware engineering operations, including teams working on the iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, and more.

John joined Apples Product Design team in 2001 and has served as vice president of Hardware Engineering since 2013. During his time at Apple, he has led hardware engineering for numerous products, including all iPad generations and models, the newest iPhone series, and AirPods.

Also Read | Apple will boost its investment in China, says Tim Cook amid Trump tariff threat

Before joining Apple, John worked as a mechanical engineer at Virtual Research Systems. He holds a bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania.

Tim Cook to resign? Reports of Cook's resignation emerged after Apple's CEO turned 65 this year. Neither Tim Cook nor Apple have officially announced CEO's resignation plans.

Last year, Tim Cook answered the question of how long he plans to continue leading one of the world's most valuable technology companies. In an interview with Wired, Cook said he plans to continue until he feels it is time to leave the company.
Apple CEO Tim Cook may step down from his role as early as next year, forcing the smartphone giant to step up its succession planning efforts, according to a new report by the Financial Times.

People familiar with inside developments told the newspaper that Apple's board and senior executives had recently intensified preparations for Cook to hand over his baton after serving as the CEO for more than 14 years.

He joined the company at Steve Jobs' request after leaving his job at Compaq, and helped it out of financial distress by improving its supply chain and manufacturing processes thereby reducing costs.

Tim Cook took over as Apple CEO in 2011 after Silicon Valley legend Steve Jobs resigned from the post.

Since then, Cook has carried forward his legacy to make Apple one of the largest companies globally.

Placing Apple into a pedestal while being the CEO comes with its own perks and Cook is no exception. Even as he steps down as CEO, the leader is likely to hold his stocks at Apple and stay on as a board member of the company, ensuring benefits in the near future.

How much Apple stocks does Tim Cook hold? According to a report by The Street, Tim Cook holds about 3,280,052 shares, or 0.021% of Apple.

Apart from this, he is a board member at Apple.

The only individual insider who owns more Apple stocks than Cook is Arthur Levinson, who held about 4.5 million shares as of 2025.

Also Read | CEO Tim Cook pushes Apples China strategy as iPhone Air becomes instant hit

Tim Cook's net worth and salary Tim Cook boasts of a net worth of $.2.5 billion, making him one of the 3,300 billionaires in the world  although he is way behind top rankers such as Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos.

The reason why Cook's net worth despite being the CEO of Apple is lower than Musk or Mark Zuckerberg is because he does not essentially own the company and is one of the shareholders.

Apart from stocks, Tim Cook's net worth also comes from his salary.

Tim Cook's total salary at Apple was $74.6 million in 2024.

His pay in 2024comprised of a base salary of $3 million, stock awards worth $58.1 million, and additional compensation of around $13.5 million.

Who will succeed Tim Cook at Apple? John Ternus, Apple's senior vice president of hardware engineering, is widely seen as Cook's most likely successor, the FT reported, citing several people familiar with discussions.
Carlyle is in talks with Lukoil for the potential acquisition of the latters international operations, Reuters has reported, citing unnamed sources. The news follows Gunvors attempt to buy the assets, only to change its mind after the Trump administration called it a Kremlin puppet and said it would block the deal.

The private equity major is still in the early stage of the negotiations, but it has applied for a license that would clear the way to an acquisition, one of the Reuters sources told the publication. The next step would be due diligence, which would need to take place soon because the sanctions against Lukoil kick in on November 21, making any dealings with it by companies using the U.S. financial system illegal.

Lukoil is the most active Russian energy company internationally, with upstream operations in the Middle East, Central Asia, and Latin America, and retail fuel businesses in many parts of the world, including the United States. The company announced plans to sell its international business following President Trumps decision to step up pressure on Russia in a bid to bring it to the peace negotiations table with Ukraine. The latest round of sanctions zero in on Lukoil and Rosneft, which together account for about half of Russias total oil exports. Lukoil alone produces some 2% of the worlds oil, Reuters noted in its report.

Swiss-based commodity major Gunvor was quick to make an offer for the business at $22 billion. The U.S. government, however, was equally quick in its reaction to the news, with the Department of the Treasury saying, President Trump has been clear that the war must end immediately. As long as Putin continues the senseless killings, the Kremlins puppet, Gunvor, will never get a license to operate and profit.

Gunvor was co-founded by a Russian businessman, Genadiy Timchenko, who, however, sold his stake in 2014. The Swiss commodity firm has called the Treasurys claims fundamentally misinformed and false.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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The US President Donald Trump-led federal government's review of the antidumping norms may impose a 107% tariff threat on the Italian pasta makers as the Commerce Department threatens 92% import duties on top of the 15% tariffs imposed earlier on all European exports to the US, reported the news agency AP on Saturday, 15 November 2025.

This comes after allegations emerged that Italian pasta makers are selling their products in the US market at below-market price levels in an effort to undercut the local competitors.

The Commerce Department reportedly started its investigations in 2024 after Missouri-based pasta maker  8th Avenue Food & Provisions  complained about the moves from the Italians.

The department investigated the two largest Italian exporters and said that any sale price below either producer's cost or the price they charge in their home market will be considered under the dumping norms.

After they screwed up their initial responses, the Commerce Department explained to them what the problems were and asked them to fix those problems; they didnt, said Kush Desai, White House spokesperson. And then Commerce communicated the requirements again, and they didnt answer for a third time.

Italy's pasta exports at risk The US Commerce Department's 92% US tariff threat shook the Italian markets, as reportedly 13 producers would be affected by the move as United States remains as the second-largest export market after Germany.

According to data from Farmers Association Coldiretti show, US accounts for nearly 15% or $4.65 billion (4 million euros) in exports for Italy, ranking it second-largest after Germany.

Pasta variations like tortellini, spaghetti and rigatoni are common types which are manufactured in the European nation to be exported abroad.

Importers in America, like Sal Auriemma, who owns Claudio Speciality Food at the Italian market in Philadelphia, United States, told the news portal that the export market to the US will shrivel if the cost of these products to an American customer more than doubles from its current level due to the tariffs.

Pasta is a pretty small sector to pick on. I mean, theres a lot bigger things to pick on, Auriemma told the news agency, highlighting luxury items. But pasta? Its basic food, he said. "Somethings got to be sacred.

However, these tariff rates will not just be applicable for the imports going forward, but also for the previous imports up to 12 months through June 2024, reported the news agency.

Italy's talks with the European Commission According to the agency report, Italy's government is working with the European Commission and also engaging in diplomatic efforts, while the country supports the companies that are looking for legal action to oppose the sanctions imposed on them, said Italy's Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida.

In October, EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic focused on the lack of evidence backing America's move while calling the 107% total tariffs unacceptable.

Undermining the dumping claim, Margherita Mastromauro, president of the pasta makers sector of Unione Italiana Food, told the news agency that the prices of Italian pasta sold in the United States remain higher and are considerably higher than the American-made rival products.
The landslide victory of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party in the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025 is likely to chart a new path for the central government to make agriculture-related concessions while negotiating the bilateral trade agreement (BTA) deal, reported the news portal CNBC on Saturday, 15 November 2025.

The State of Bihar is a large producer of corn, which is expected to encourage the central government to conclude the trade deal with the United States, according to the report.

The American negotiators have been pressing for access to the Indian agricultural market, while India still holds its ground to protect the best interests of its farmers and people, being an agriculture-driven nation.

Any agriculture-related concessions or tariff cuts for imports into India will bring more purchases of agro products from the United States, reported the news portal, citing Amitendu Palit, senior research fellow and research lead at the Institute of South Asian Studies.

However, these purchases will be couched in a manner that does not suggest that the government is going to back away on its commitment to domestic farmers, said Palit, cited in the news portal.

Bihar Election Results 2025 Mint reported earlier, citing the Election Commission of India (ECI) data, that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured more than 200 seats, which marks the majority in the 243-member Parliamentary Assembly.

NDA alliance led by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, while Nitish Kumar's Janata Dal(U) bagged 85 constituency seats in the Bihar Election Results 2025. The alliance secured a three-fourths majority in the 243-member House.

While the Mahagathbandhan, led by Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), bagged 25 seats, Congress won only six seats in the assembly elections.

India-US trade deal update, Trump tariffs According to a recent report from the news agency ANI, another trade talk round between the United States and India may not be necessary, as both sides are engaged in discussions over sensitive issues and access to sensitive sectors.

The news portal's report also highlighted that the Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, during his visit to the US in September, said that they have acknowledged fresh offers which include buying corn to produce ethanol amid India's push towards ethanol-compliant vehicles.

So far, India and the United States have completed five rounds of official negotiations and are expected to finalise the first round of the BTA deal by the end of this year.

US President Donald Trump has imposed a total of 50% tariffs on all imports from India. The tariffs were imposed in two tranches, with the first 25% coming into effect from 1 August 2025, and the additional 25% became effective from 27 August 2025.
The US and Switzerland have nearly finalised a trade deal to reduce tariffs on Swiss goods from 39% to 15%. The White House plans to announce the details on Friday, according to US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.

Weve essentially reached a deal with Switzerland, Greer said during a CNBC interview. So well post details of that today on the White House website.

The Swiss government announced the deal in a post on X, thanking President Donald Trump for his constructive engagement. Swiss leaders started a press conference late Friday afternoon in Bern's capital to discuss the agreement.

Also Read | Trump Plans to Attend Davos Next Year in Boost to Switzerland

What benefits is Switzerland expected to get? The proposed deal is expected to bring some relief to Switzerland, which faced the highest levy imposed by the Trump administration on any developed country. Greer informed reporters that the 15% tax covers most-favoured-nation rates along with some other existing duties, mirroring agreements with the European Union, Bloomberg reported.

The publication earlier reported on Monday that Switzerland and the US are nearing an agreement on a 15% tariff rate.

After securing a tariff comparable to that of the EU, Swiss exporters will reach parity with their rivals in the trading bloc. However, this does not provide them an edge over European competitors, who do not face a strong franc, which earlier today hit a decade-high against the euro.

Details of the deal Switzerland has agreed to invest $200 billion in the US during Trumps presidency, with $70 billion planned for next year, focusing on sectors like pharmaceuticals and gold smelting, according to Greer. Additionally, Switzerland has pledged to purchase more Boeing commercial aircraft, Greer noted.

Meanwhile, Roche Holding AG and Novartis AG have committed to investing over $70 billion in manufacturing and R&D in the US over the coming years, although the source of the remaining funds remains uncertain. Similar to gold and semiconductors, pharmaceutical products are currently exempt from tariffs.

The companies are working closely with the White House to develop strategies for lowering drug prices and avoiding future duties, based on recent agreements with Pfizer Inc., AstraZeneca Plc, and other companies.

Swiss Economy Minister Guy Parmelin stated to reporters on Friday afternoon that the country has not made any concessions that could threaten its neutrality or independence.

Under the agreement, Switzerland will provide the US with duty-free bilateral tariff quotas for 500 tonnes of beef, 1,000 tonnes of bison meat, and 1,500 tonnes of poultry meat. This represents a rare easing of its agricultural trade restrictions. However, due to the influence of the Swiss farmers lobby, this move is likely to spark political controversy.

The agreement concludes months of talks between Swiss government officials and business leaders, following the imposition of US tariffs on the country's main industries, including watches, machinery, and precision instruments.

Swiss watchmakers, machinery, and precision instrument producers, as well as food and chemicals exporters, have been most affected by the 39% tariff, the report said, citing Switzerlands central bank. However, other significant exports such as medicines and gold were not subject to this rate under various US tariff rules.

The proposed deal ends a months-long dispute that started in August, when Trump surprised Bern by imposing a 39% tariff on Swiss exportsmore than twice the rate applied to the EU. The Trump administration justified this move as a response to a reported $40 billion goods trade deficit, catching Swiss officials off guard, as they thought they had already reached an agreement with their US counterparts.
Bihar Election 2025 Results: The National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which includes Nitish Kumars JD(U) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), scripted a landslide victory by winning 202 seats in the 243-member assembly. The Mahagathbandhan alliance led by the RJD won 35 seats.

Among the NDA, the BJP won 89 seats, emerging as the single largest party, followed by the JD(U) with 85 seats. The Lok Janshakti Party (LJP-RV) secured 19 seats, while its two other allies won 9 seats.

In the Opposition camp, the RJD won 25 seats while the Congress won just six seats.

Bihar Election Results 2025 Party/Alliance Seats Contested Seats Won Vote Share (%) JD (U)/NDA 101 85 20.08 BJP/NDA 101 89 19.25 LJP/ NDA 29 21 4.97 NDA (Total) 202 RJD/MBG 143 25 23 Congress/MGB 61 6 8.71 RJD+ (Total) 35

Was this the NDAs best performance or the RJDs worst? The answer is no. The NDA has secured bigger victories in the past, and the RJD has also delivered poorer performances in the past. 2020 Bihar Assembly Election is a recent example

What happened in 2010 Bihar Assembly Election? The 2010 Bihar election delivered a historic win for the Nitish Kumarled NDA, which at that time consisted of the JD(U) (Janata DalUnited) and the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party)

In 2010, the NDA won 206 seats, one of the biggest mandates in Bihars history. The NDA comprised of the BJP and the JD (U)

The Janata Dal (United), led by Nitish Kumar, won 115 seats, the BJP, then led by Sushil Modi, won 91 seats, while the RJD, then led by Rabri Devi, bagged 22 seats. The JD-U vote share was 22.58 per cent, while the BJP bagged 16.5 per cent of the votes. The RJD got 18.84 per cent votes in the 2010 assembly elections.

The Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) had won 3 seats with 6.7 per cent vote share in 2010. The party had fought on 75 seats.

Bihar Election Results 2010 Party/Alliance Seats Contested Seats Won Vote Share (%) JD (U)/NDA 141 115 22.58 BJP/NDA 102 91 16.49 NDA (Total) 206 RJD/Opposition 108 22 18.84 LJP/Opposition 75 3 6.74 RJD+ (Total) 25 Congress/Solo 243 4 8.37

The BJP and the JD (U) were part of the NDA. The JD(U) had contested 141 seats, while the BJP fielded candidates on 102 seats.

The RJD and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP), then led by Ram Vilas Paswan, were part of the RJD-led opposition alliance.

The Congress, which contested 243 seats, won just 4 seats with 8.37 per cent vote share.

What did the 2010 election results mean? The RJD's performance in 2010 with 22 seats dealt a major blow to Lalu Prasad Yadav's political dominance in Bihar. The Congress contested alone and remained marginal.

Nitish Kumar, however, won with a massive mandate for his party. It was the first major verdict for Kumar's good governance and 'Sushasan Babu' image. Bihar saw improvements in roads, law and order and women's empowerment in Nitish's previous tenure. The result also marked the shifting away from the RJD rule, solidifying Nitish Kumar's reputation as the face of the Bihar governance model.

With the massive mandate, Nitish Kumar returned as CM for his second consecutive term and third term overall.

Clearly, in both 2010 and 2025, the BJP won almost 9 out of every 10 seats it contested  an extraordinarily high strike rate.
At least three of the 89 BJP candidates who secured a victory in the Bihar Assembly Elections this year have assets worth over 6 lakh, a report by election watchdog Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) revealed on Saturday. The candidate with the highest declared assets boasts a net worth of above 170 crore.

The total assets of 243 winning candidates amount to 2,192.93 crores, with the average assets per winning candidate for 89 BJP winning candidates totaling to 8.68 Crore, mentioned the report.

Results of Bihar Assembly Election 2025 which saw the NDA securing a sweeping victory  were announced on Friday, 14 November.

Which candidates have the highest assets? According to the ADR report, two candidates from Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)), and one candidate from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have the highest declared assets among the 243 winners.

Kumar Pranay (BJP) has declared assets worth over  170 crore. The candidate with the second highest assets is Mokama's Chote Sarkar Anant Singh, whose total assets amount to more than  100 crore. Third on the list is Dr Kumar Puspanjay, from Barbigha constituency, with assets worth over  94 crores. Which candidates have the lowest assets? All three winning candidates with the lowest declared assets are from BJP, as per the ADR report:

Murari Pasavan from Bhagalpur has declared assets worth above  6 lakh, which is the lowest among all the winners. Mahesh Paswan from Bhojpur's Agiaon constituency has the second lowest declared assets, amounting to  8 lakhs and above. BJP's Sujeet Kumar has declared assets worth above  11 lakhs. What are the assets of winners from other parties? According to the ADR report, a majority of winning candidates are crorepatis. JD(U) leads the list with 78 out of 85 winners (92%), who are crorepatis, followed by BJP with 77 of 89 winners (87%), and RJD with 24 of its 25 winners (96%).

View full Image A majority of winning candidates are crorepatis. ( ADR )

The average assets per winning candidate for 89 BJP winning candidates is 8.68 Crores, while 85 JD(U) winning candidates have average assets of 9.53 Crores.

View full Image Party wise Percentage of Crorepati Winning Candidates ( ADR )

The 25 RJD Winning candidates have average assets worth 5.80 Crores, while 19 Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) winning candidates have average assets worth 13.66 Crore.

Bihar Assembly Election Results 2025 The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged as largest party with 89% strike rate, while the Mahagathbandhan, which comprised of Rashtriya Janata Dal, faced a crushing defeat.

Here's a look at seats won by the parties:

Bharatiya Janata Party: 89 seats

Janata Dal (United): 85 seats

Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas): 19 seats

Rashtriya Janata Dal: 25 seats

Indian National Congress: 6 seats
Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan met Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar at his residence in Patna on Saturday amid suspense over the next Bihar chief minister.

Paswan said he extended his wishes to Nitish Kumar on the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) resounding success in the Bihar Assembly elections.

"I met the CM, congratulated him and extended him best wishes. The NDA registered a historic victory under the leadership of Nitish Kumar. So, a delegation of LJP(RV) met him and congratulated him," Chirag Paswan said after meeting CM Nitish Kumar on Saturday.

Chirag Paswan said CM Nitish Kumar appreciated the role of every alliance partner in the NDA. He also hit out at the Opposition for promoting "misleading" people by setting up a false narrative between JD(U) and LJP (RV).

"I am delighted that the CM appreciated the role of every alliance partner in the NDA. He supported the LJP(RV) candidate when he went to vote. In Alauli, where I vote, I supported the JD(U) candidate. This shows that those people were misleading regarding JD(U) and LJP(RV) and were just setting a false narrative," Paswan said.

Suspense over the next Bihar chief minister After the NDA's historic win in Bihar, the suspense continues over the next Bihar chief minister. Nitish Kumar, who has been holding the post for decades, is eyeing another term as the chief minister.

JD(U) leader Shyam Rajak said on Saturday, No one other than Nitish Kumar will take oath. The Chief Minister will decide the date of the oath-taking ceremony.

However, many believe that the BJP, which emerged as the largest-single party in the Bihar Elections, could field its own CM candidate.

While the question remains, several posters with phrases such as Tiger Zinda Hai, and Hamre Bihar Ka Eke Star, Har Baar Nitish Kumar surfaced in the state after the Election Commission's Bihar results showed the ruling NDA well above the majority mark.

Nitish Kumar will remain Bihar CM, says Chirag Paswan Ahead of the final Bihar Election result declaration on Friday, Chirag Paswan said that he firmly believed that Nitish Kumar would continue to remain the state's chief minister.

"I firmly believe that Nitish Kumar will remain the Bihar chief minister. Arrogance is the cause for the opposition's humiliating loss and it is the sole factor that led to its downfall," Paswan had said.

"Our overwhelming victory is on account of the strength of the double-engine government which is led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Centre and our chief minister Nitish Kumar in the state. The people of Bihar have reposed complete faith in the unity of the NDA partners which has led to this win," he added.

NDA wins Bihar Election 2025 The NDA registered a historic victory in the 2025 Bihar Elections, winning 202 of the 243 seats in the state. Meanwhile, the Mahagathbandhan could secure only 35 seats.

The NDA secured a three-fourths majority in the 243-member House. This is the second time the NDA has crossed the 200 mark in the assembly polls. In the 2010 polls, it had won 206 seats.

Final Bihar Election Results: Party-wise score In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, emerging as the single-largest party. The Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats.
Congress leaders KC Venugopal and Ajay Maken met Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge today and said the results are unbelievable.

Venugopal said, "The result which has come from Bihar is unbelievable for all of us... Our alliance parties do not believe it... We are collecting data and conducting a thorough analysis, and within 1 to 2 weeks, we will provide concrete proof... The Election Commission is totally one-sided... This process is questionable... "

Ajay Maken said, "There has been a question mark over the entire election process right from the beginning. When that is the case, results will be unexpected like this. There was never a strike rate like this. Even Congress didn't have a strike rate like this in 1984, as is the case with the BJP in these elections. No one expected this. Something is amiss. We have spoken with our alliance partners. All of them believe that these are unexpected results and these should be examined, data should be analysed. We have been getting phone calls from workers across Bihar that there have been discrepancies and it should be investigated. Our people are collecting the data, we will see Form 17 C, voters list and then come to you with facts and data..."
After their Bihar poll debacle, senior Congress leaders met party chief Mallikarjun Kharge in Delhi and later called the results questionable, accusing the Election Commission of being biased. KC Venugopal and Ajay Maken said the Bihar election result was unbelievable and they will come back with concrete proof after collecting data and analysing it.

Congress failed to secure double digits despite contesting on 61 seats. In the 2020 Bihar elections, the Congress party won 19 out of the 70 seats it contested.

Addressing the reporters outside Mallikarjun Kharge's residence, KC Venugopal said, The result which has come from Bihar is unbelievable for all of us... Our alliance parties do not believe it... We are collecting data and conducting a thorough analysis, and within one to two weeks, we will provide concrete proof. The Election Commission is totally one-sided. This process is questionable.

Ajay Maken also questioned the strike rate of BJP and said, something is amiss. The Congress leader said the party has also spoken with their Mahagathbandhan partners about the results.

Ajay Maken said, There has been a question mark over the entire election process right from the beginning. When that is the case, results will be unexpected like this. There was never a strike rate like this. Even Congress didn't have a strike rate like this in 1984, as is the case with the BJP in these elections. No one expected this. Something is amiss.

We have spoken with our alliance partners. All of them believe that these are unexpected results and these should be examined, data should be analysed. We have been getting phone calls from workers across Bihar that there have been discrepancies and it should be investigated. Our people are collecting the data, we will see Form 17 C, voters list and then come to you with facts and data.
A major slip-up at the Globetrotter Event venue on Saturday evening has sent the internet into a frenzy, after the official teaser of SS Rajamouli and Mahesh Babus much-anticipated collaboration was accidentally played during technical checks. The film, referenced for years as SSMB 29, now appears to have a confirmed title: Varanasi.

The live event, which was expected to begin soon, was set to unveil the first look and key details of the film in a grand on-stage reveal. However, before the streaming on JioHotstar could commence, the teaser was mistakenly broadcast on the venue 100ft screen, giving attendees and backstage crew an unexpected early glimpse.

Within minutes, leaked clips surfaced across social media platforms, sparking a wave of excitement and debate among fans.

Mahesh Babus intense look shocks fans The leaked footage shows Mahesh Babu in a stark and powerful avatarseated atop Nandi, his body smeared in blood, gripping a trident. The imagery suggests that Rajamouli is steering the actor into an intense mytho-action zone, one far removed from his recent on-screen personas.

The visuals, though brief, offer enough to fuel speculation that Varanasi may be steeped in spiritual symbolism, heavy action and Rajamoulis trademark world-building.

Online reaction has been immediate. Hashtags related to SSMB 29, Varanasi, and Mahesh Babu began trending almost instantly, with fans dissecting the symbolism of the trident, Nandi and the blood-soaked imagery.

Rajamoulis penchant for epic storytellingevident in Baahubali and RRRhas only added to the anticipation surrounding the films scale and tone.

Along with Mahesh, the film will also feature the likes of Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran.

Varanasi official teaser OUT What began as an evening of speculation turned into a full-scale reveal as Rajamouli presented the films first teaser on the massive LED screens at Ramoji Film City. The director confirmed that Varanasi is not only a globe-trotting adventure but also a time-trotting saga, hinting at a narrative that spans vast eras and landscapes.

The teaser showcased Mahesh Babu in a striking, intense avatar, alongside the announcement of his characters name, Rudhra.
Bollywood actor Salman Khan took a break from his hosting duties at Bigg Boss 19 for his ongoing Dabangg Tour in Qatar. He has been joined by celebrities including Jacqueline Fernandez, Tamannaah Bhatia, Sunil Grover, Stebin Ben, and Maniesh Paul. Several videos from Khan's Doha performance have surfaced on social media.

Salman Khan's dance video from Dabangg Tour goes viral In one of them, the superstar is seen dancing with a group of background dancers on stage.

However, fans are convinced that the Tiger actor is unwell. Many also alleged that he looks tired as he is seen sweating on stage.

Khan appeared on stage in an all-black look. He wore a black shirt with black pants while dancing with a red dupatta on his hit tracks like Hangover, Main Hoon Hero Tera and Jag Ghoomeya.

Is Salman Khan unwell? Sharing the video on Reddit, a user wrote, Visibly tried, fatigued, stocky and stiff, disengaged, poor dancing and unenthusiastic. Is it just me or its a live demonstration of burnout (sic)?

In the comments, many debated about Khan's health.

One of them wrote, He looks tired and like ill. But not burnout- burnout comes with like overworking I guess and overdoing. But could be wrong. Age, health, habits, and other whatever diseases he has isnt helping him. But for money he is doing it (sic).

Age, and plus the medications he is on for bone marrow transplant. It's a really big deal, added another.

One more commented, Nobodys asking a 60-year-old to dance like hes 25. People are just expecting a superstar to put in some effort if hes doing a paid performance.

Some also defended the actor for his performance. People expect a 60 year old to behave like a 40 year old - no wonder these stars are under immense pressure to deliver their youth like stardom - I saw comments on different pages on the gram even tho he is dancing like this they were loving it sometimes people just want stars presence rather than a 10/10 performance obvio only top a listers carry it as we just saw with Madhuri in Canada - not everyone can get away with it, a user said.

A different user questioned, Can we do all this at 60 with all the disease he has? (sic)"

Also Read | Salman Khan calls Dharamendra father as he opens up about veteran actor's health

Salman Khan and Tamannaah Bhatia's video

A similar video of Salman Khan dancing with Tamannaah Bhatia from the Doha tour also went viral on social media.
Chegg, Inc. (NYSE:CHGG) is one of the best EdTech Stocks to buy now.

On October 27, 2025, Chegg said its board concluded a year-long strategic review and decided the company will remain a standalone public company. The review, run with Goldman Sachs, considered alternatives including a sale and a go-private deal; directors unanimously determined independence offers the best path to maximize long-term shareholder value. As part of the move, Executive Chairman Dan Rosensweig returned to the roles of president and CEO, while Nathan Schultz became an executive advisor to the CEO and board.

Is T-Mobile Us (TMUS) The Best Telecom Stock to Buy? Analyst Explains Her Bullish Thesis on the Stock

Copyright: wavebreakmediamicro / 123RF Stock Photo

Chegg also announced a restructuring aimed at strengthening cash flow and reorienting toward the $40+ billion skilling market. Management said reduced Google traffic and AIs impact on publishers have pressured its academic business, so Chegg will deliver services with a lower cost structure and reinvest in higher-growth areas such as language learning and workplace readiness. The plan includes reducing 388 roles (about 45% of the workforce), targeting a $100$110 million reduction in 2026 non-GAAP expenses, and incurring $15$19 million in mostly cash severance charges. Chegg reiterated Q3 2025 revenue and adjusted EBITDA guidance and said Skills businesses are expected to generate roughly $70 million of 2025 revenue with double-digit growth in 2026. Additional details are slated for the November 10, 2025 earnings call.

Chegg, Inc. (NYSE:CHGG), based in Santa Clara, California, operates a learning platform centered on Chegg Study and increasingly AI-powered support, alongside Busuu and professional upskilling offerings.

While we acknowledge the potential of CHGG as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now.

Disclosure: None.
A class of Russian first-graders stood to attention this fall as a soldier who had served on the front line in Ukraine inspected their military uniforms.

Check your dress!" ordered the serviceman. Your buckles should face not left, not right, but straight ahead."

The pupils, age 6 to 8, adjusted collars, swiveled belts and repositioned the name badges on their chests. Then, they settled behind their desks for an hour of Russian language study.

Drills of this kind, which took place in the Kursk region bordering Ukraine and were broadcast on Russian state television, are happening across Russia as the Kremlin reaches into the countrys schools to prepare potential combatants for future wars.

It is part of a dramatic transformation of Russias education system that gained pace after the Kremlins annexation of Crimea in 2014 but was supercharged by the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. As the conflict approaches the four-year mark, military-style training and war topics are embedded in Russias school curriculum, while the budget for such programs has ballooned as the focus has turned to the youngest grades.

By eighth grade, weapons trainingonce extracurricularis now mandatory. Teens are taught army discipline, military history and how to assemble Kalashnikovs and fly drones.

History textbooks portraying the West as Russias enemy and Ukraine as its stooge will soon be rolled out for the youngest grades, the government says. Outside of the classroom, the Defense Ministry has its own Youth Army, with a claimed 1.85 million members age 8 to 18 integrated into the school system.

The Kremlin has signaled the war in Ukraine could last years, and analysts say the military indoctrination push is aimed in part at rearing a generation of militarized patriots who recognize the Russian state as the ultimate authority and will unquestioningly answer a future call to fight.

If you take school-age children and indoctrinate them properly, then they will become cheaper and more efficient soldiers for any kind of war you may plan in the future," said political scientist Ekaterina Schulmann, describing the Kremlins logic.

Key to the campaign is the involvement of active-duty soldiers, who now teach schoolchildren how to handle guns and fight in self-defense. Soldiers walked hand-in-hand at the start of term with pupils whose fathers had fallen in battle.

Wars are won not by generals, but by schoolteachers," Russian President Vladimir Putin said in December 2023, calling on soldiers to enter Russias classrooms. A state program now fast tracks their teaching applications.

For Putin, remastering Russias curriculum to promote patriotism and army service has been a long-held ambition. After he came to power in 2000, the Russian leader lamented a loss of unity in the wake of the Soviet collapse and said a lax youth policy was leading to the corruption of young minds.

Putin was one of millions of Soviet schoolchildren who joined the Pioneer and Komsomol youth movements, which taught devotion to communist ideals. As president, he revived and revitalized a network of youth clubs to train a new generation of militarized patriots.

His government also increased funding for so-called patriotic education, focused on teaching basic military skills and a historical narrative that whitewashes Russias past.

In 2015, many of the youth clubs merged into the Defense Ministrys Youth Army with military-style uniforms and red berets. Its members stand guard at historical ceremonies and attend regular army training sessions.

Putin also moved to bring the education system under government control, targeting schools that taught different interpretations of Russias past. He argued that a tug of war with the West over Russias soul was just as fierce as the fight for natural resources.

The intention has been to use all the tools the government can think of to prepare children ideologically, psychologically and, at least on some level in terms of basic military skills, for war," said Ian Garner, a lecturer and author of a book on Russias youth.

Russian schools now start the week with an hourlong class titled Conversations about Important Things," aimed at spreading conservative Russian values among children, according to government documents. The teaching material for preschoolers, according to a copy published in Russian independent media, declares, To live means to serve your Motherland."

Since 2024, a new class called Foundations of Security and Defense of the Motherland" includes instruction on the Kalashnikov rifle, the RPK machine gun, the RPG antitank grenade launcher and the Dragunov sniper rifle, as well as lectures on psychological operations and unity of command," according to documents published online as a resource for teachers.

History classes are based on textbooks co-written by Vladimir Medinsky, Russias chief negotiator on Ukraine. The 11th-grade version describes Ukraine as an ultranationalist state and claims, without evidence, that the U.S. opened secret biolaboratories on Ukrainian territory in the buildup to the war. It says Kyiv was working to develop nuclear weapons ahead of an attack on Russia with the full backing of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

This would possibly have spelled the end of civilization," the textbook reads, according to copies of it posted on Russian state-linked websites. We couldnt let this happen."

Funding for patriotic education" increased from 3.5 billion rubles, equivalent to $42 million, in 2021 to more than 50 billion rubles, almost $600 million, in 2024, according to government statistics. This year, another four billion rubles was earmarked to equip 23,000 schools with model Kalashnikovs, grenades and drone kits.

The new curriculum is also taught in occupied parts of Ukraine, where authorities have seized and destroyed Ukrainian-language books, and residents say Ukraines national history is scrubbed from the timetable. Parents who dial their children into online classes taught in other Ukrainian cities risk arrest for doing so.

Beyond the classroom, public figures disseminate a message of sacrifice and commitment to the defense of Russia. A man is created not for peace, but for war, and Russiansfor victory," Vladimir Solovyov, a TV anchor close to Putin, told a gathering of young adults in Moscow last fall.

That is resonating with thousands of Russian children who have lost relatives in Ukraine. Authorities have renamed schools in honor of men killed there. Classrooms often contain hero desks" decorated with portraits of graduates who have died in the war.

But the most controversial change has been the introduction of a military ethos at the heart of the civilian classroom.

For some, intensive preparation for military service begins in preschool, where cadet classes include physical drills carried out in army-style uniforms. Parents of some first-graders who don camouflage at school have already identified which military university they want their children to attend, and have an expectation for where they will ultimately serve, according to Russian state media.

In the television report about military drills at the school in Kursk this fall, serviceman-turned-teacher Andrey Apurin said he had his work cut out to bring the pupils up to scratch. We have a long way to go before we establish full discipline," the 22-year-old said.

Many parents support the change. But others, as well as teachers and education experts, warn that the indoctrination risks spawning a jingoistic, unquestioning generation that will perpetuate Russian warmongering.

When a child is handed a rifle and told Putin is our pride, and that Ukraine is where enemies who want to destroy us are living, they dont have the critical thinking to say: No, wait, its not that way, " said Dima Zicer, a Russian education expert living abroad.

Some teachers who have refused to deliver the militarized curriculum have faced criminal charges.

In June, a Moscow court sentenced teacher Natalia Taranushenko to seven years in jail for telling pupils about atrocities committed by Russian troops. By the time of her sentencing, Taranushenko had fled the country.

Write to Matthew Luxmoore at matthew.luxmoore@wsj.com
In the grand narrative of Chinas economic pivot toward consumption, the spotlight has long hovered over megacities such as Beijing and Shanghai. But beneath the glare of skyscrapers and national-policy headlines, a quieter transformation is taking place in the countrys third-, fourth- and even fifth-tier cities.

These smaller urban centersoften overlookedmay be the key to any sustainable rebound in Chinese household spending.

Some China analysts call it the silent engine." While national aggregate retail-sales data remain weak and consumer confidence has stalled, fresh evidence shows that inland and lower-tier cities are outperforming in some of the categories and channels that matter for consumer-led growth, said Eduardo Brito, co-founder of China consultancy Gate Kaizen.

For example, in the first quarter, rural retail sales grew 4.9% year-over-year, modestly outpacing the urban 4.5% growth. Meanwhile, lower-tier city (xia-chen") markets now account for over 57% of Chinas total consumption, thanks to deepening digital-commerce adoption, according to research firm ChoZan.

This particularly matters because China continues to guard against overreliance on exports and investment, and has long sought a domestic-demand engine. If top-tier megacities are saturated, constrained by high costs, housing burdens, and weak property sentiment, then the less-observed smaller cities may offer a fresheralbeit smaller-scaleon-ramp to growth.

In 2024, household consumption in many tier-3 and tier-4 cities grew by 3% to 5%, even as tier-1 hubs saw outright declines in retail activity, Shenzhen-based legal services firm Lex China recently found.

Several underlying drivers give these cities momentum. First: digital commerce and social-commerce penetration remain strong inland. A deep dive on the deep transformation" of Chinas consumption structure found that between 2024 and 2025, livestreaming/social-commerce channels added roughly 2 trillion yuan ($281 billion) in gross merchandise value, operating against a flattened traditional-retail base.

Second: lower housing and living-cost burdens free up visible budget for other spendingelectronics, durable goods, domestic travel. While consumer confidence remains low nationally, retail sales in key categories rose 5% in H1 2025, auto sales 11.2%, with EVs leading at 37.2%, analysts at McKinsey & Company reported.

Third: policy support and urbanization flows. Accelerating new-type urbanization" and physical-logistics upgrades expand access to consumption in smaller cities. Emerging-tier city GDP could hit 110 trillion yuan by end-2025, a recent consulting report projects.

Analysts have been taking note for some time. We expect consumption in lower-tier cities to surgethey could be the engine driving Chinas overall private-consumption market," Morgan Stanley economists wrote almost a decade agoand current data suggest the thesis is finally coming into fruition.

But the silent engine isnt a bullet train. Consumer confidence remains fragile. The household savings rate is still above 30% and many households cite employment/property worries before discretionary spending. Moreover, the property-and-land-revenue crunch in smaller cities continues to weigh on local government budgets, which in turn limit stimulus. Also, the structural shift in spending is slow.

Bigger-ticket categories remain constrained, and the ability of smaller cities to compensate for weakness in the megacities is still very much open to question.

In Luan, a fourth-tier city in Anhui Province, young couples recently picked up a smart-kitchen" appliance package via a livestream promotion from a national branda category seeing double-digit growth in these markets.

These modest purchases, say local retailers, wouldnt have been possible a few years ago when logistics and digital-channel penetration were weak. Meanwhile, local governments have rolled out trade-in" subsidiesappliance upgrades, EV purchasesto coax spending where property wealth has stalled.

We arent spending like before, but when something breaks, we replace it with something better," said Li Na, a 32-year-old office worker in Luan. Housing is stressful, but daily life still goes onthe appliances, the car, the things we use every day."

For companies and investors, the message is clear: Chinas next consumption frontier may not be in the big coastal cities, but in smaller, inland markets. Brands that tailor products, channels and digital strategies to these geographies may capture excess growth.

Consumer-goods players should consider how to succeed in lower-tier contexts: strong online+offline logistics, value/pricing focus, social-commerce engagement and digital-first marketing. An estimated 62% of lower-tier city" consumers cite e-commerce as their primary search channel, according to an Accenture consumer-insights study.

As China policymakers search for stabilizers to offset property-sector weakness and sluggish high-tier consumption, the lower-tier growth story offers a different angle: not a dramatic rebound, but a slower-burning simmer that may provide structural ballast. The silent engine" may not roarbut it could hum steadily.

The consumer story in China is seldom excitingbut increasingly nuanced. If consumption in lower-tiered cities is sustained, it will remake how investors, companies and policymakers think about Chinas economic rebalancing. The question isnt whether Chinas consumers will returnits where the returning consumers will be.

Write to editors@barrons.com
BRUSSELS : The European Union is racing against the clock to overcome Belgiums objections to a plan to fund Ukraines defense using Russian money.

Ukraine is on course to run out of cash in the spring, EU officials say, and they see their loan proposal as the best option for allowing Kyiv to continue buying weapons. The plan would lend as much as 183 billion euros (about $213 billion) to Ukraine, backed by Russian financial assets that are immobilized in Belgium.

Belgian officials fear that if the plan hits political or legal trouble, it could leave the country exposed to liabilities that potentially amount to the equivalent of one-third of its national economic output. Politics in Belgium, which hosts the EUs institutions, risks adding to the problem. The governing coalition faces a budget crisis, raising the stakes for Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever to show he is protecting Belgian interests.

De Wever on Friday met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the EUs top official. Both sides want a deal struck at a summit late next month, before Kyivs cash position deteriorates much further.

The dispute boils down to conflicting assessments of legal risk to the reparations loan. EU officials accept that risks exist but think they are low and containable. Belgian officials see substantial risk to the plan.

The proposal involves using some of the $300 billion Russian central bank assets that the EU, the U.S. and other allies immobilized after Russian leader Vladimir Putin ordered the large-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Two thirds of that money was sitting Belgian financial intermediary Euroclear, a security depository holding billions in assets for its clients.

The EU plan would involve lending Ukraine money using the cash reserves that have built up at the European Central Bank as the Russian assets at Euroclear have matured.

Ukraine would only need to repay the money if Russia pays Kyiv reparations after the war. Few think that likely.

The European Commission, the EUs executive arm, would therefore give Euroclear a contract, amounting to a promissory note, that it would make Euroclears balance sheet whole if it ever must repay Russia. EU countries would guarantee that the commission has resources for a potential repayment.

Euroclear, for its part, would only need to settle with Russia if Western sanctions on its assets are lifted. Pending that, the Ukraine loan could roll over in perpetuity and not be considered Ukraines debt.

The legality of using the immobilized assets has been among the most contested financial questions of the Ukraine war. European capitals for more than two years resisted the unprecedented step of handing a countrys assets over to its opponent.

For the EU plan to go ahead, Belgian officials want guarantees from other EU states that cash would immediately be available to Euroclear if it is forced to return the assets to Russia. They fear that could happen if the commissions proposal is found to be illegal, or if the U.S. and Russia strike a peace deal that requires Euroclear to repay the money.

If Euroclear cant cover its liabilities, De Wever, the Belgian prime minister, warns the company could quickly lose market confidence, risking an exodus of assets and a potential market crisis.

Belgiums government fears Moscow could formally confiscate assets of Belgian companies that have been trapped in Russia since 2022. They fear that Russia or its courts could take control of Euroclear assets held there and push Russia-friendly countries to go after Euroclear assets elsewhere.

People involved in the talks said that Euroclear has exposure of 17 billion of assets in Russia.

A Euroclear spokesman said the firm would continue discussions with decision makers.

Any proposal should respect international law and internationally accepted legal principles underpinning Western economies and protect the interests of Euroclear and its stakeholders," he said.

De Wever wants the EU plan to expand to include support from non-EU countries, potentially including the U.S., U.K and Japan. His proposal echoes concerns voiced by European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde that the EU plan could damage confidence in euro-denominated assets if the Euroclear assets were taken without the U.S., the U.K. and Japan copying suit.

The Group of Seven large advanced nations continues discussing the use of the assets, and British and Canadian officials have signaled they also might turn the money over to Ukraine. Neither Washington nor Tokyo has said it would.

The fattest chicken is in Belgium but there are other chickens around," De Wever said last month.

The EU is considering other ways to raise money, such as member states agreeing to raise a loan to support Ukraine. But such an approach would almost certainly require the agreement of all the countries, including Hungary, which has refused to back fresh EU loans for Ukraine.

There are alternatives, but they are much less attractive because they are more costly for everyone," said Nicolas Veron, senior fellow at Belgian-based think tank, Bruegel.

Write to Laurence Norman at laurence.norman@wsj.com and Kim Mackrael at kim.mackrael@wsj.com
Bank holiday today: Banks across India, except Jharkhand, are scheduled to remain open today, November 15, 2025, since it is the third Saturday of the month. Banks are typically closed on weekends, except on the first, third, and fifth Saturdays of each month, according to the Reserve Bank of India region-wise holiday calendar (RBI) for the fiscal year 2025-26

All scheduled and non-scheduled banks will observe public holiday on the second and fourth Saturdays, RBI said.

Bank holiday in Jharkhand Banks across Jharkhand will remain closed today on the occasion of Birsa Munda's birth anniversary and State Formation Day. This day is observed as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, a tribute to the tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda, and it marks the foundation day of the state of Jharkhand. It commemorates both the birth anniversary of the Munda tribal leader, born in 1875, and the formation of Jharkhand in 2000.

When is the next bank holiday? The next bank holiday is tomorrow, November 16, 2025, as it falls on a Sunday. Notably, for the month of November, there are no upcoming bank holidays except for weekend holidays.

Also Read | Banks will be closed on these five days in November 2025  check full list

When does RBI designate a bank holiday? The RBI designates bank holidays in various parts of the country to mark national, religious, and regional observances. Hence, bank holidays vary across regions. In addition to festivities, banks are closed on the second and fourth Saturdays and all Sundays of the month.

Bank holidays in November 2025  full list Banks were scheduled to be closed for five days in the month of November, excluding weekends. Some of the bank closures for this month included Guru Nanak Jayanti and Kartika Purnima.

November 1  Banks were closed in Karnataka for Kannada Rajyothsava, the day dedicated to the 1956 merger of Kannada-speaking regions to form the state of Karnataka. Additionally, banks were closed in Dehradun as the region will celebrated Igas-Bagwal, also known as Budhi Deepawali.

November 5  Banks were closed for festivities including Guru Nanak Jayanti, Kartika Purnima and Rahas Purnima in regions such as Aizawl, Belapur, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Hyderabad, Itanagar, Jaipur, Jammu, Kanpur, Kohima, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, New Delhi, Raipur, Ranchi, Shimla and Srinagar.

November 6  Banks in Shillong were closed on the occasion of Nongkrem Dance. It is a five-day Khasi festival, during which men and women perform traditional dances, and goat sacrifice ceremony also takes place.

November 7  All banks were shut in Shillong on this day in observance of the Wangala Festival. On this day, tribals offer sacrifices to please their main deity, Saljong or the Sun God.

November 8  Kanakadasa Jayanthi was observed in Bengaluru, hence banks in the region were closed on this day. This day is dedicated to the birth anniversary of poet and social reformer Shri Kanakadasa.

What services are available on a bank holiday? Customers should note that banks typically offer online banking services nationwide to ensure uninterrupted access to banking services, even on bank holidays. These services can be used for convenient financial transactions.
Gold price today: The domestic gold prices in the futures market settled in the green this week, despite the selloff seen last evening. Gold prices ended Friday's trade at 123,400 on the MCX, down 2.64% amid hawkish comments from US Federal Reserve officials, dimming the yellow metal's shine.

However, the bullion managed to rise over 2,000 or nearly 2% for the week. The steady rise seen in gold over the last few days had raised investors' hopes that the precious metal could bounce back to its all-time high levels of 132,000 after being stuck in a range for nearly a month.

The renewed momentum in gold was evident amid structural central bank demand and profound geopolitical anxiety, said Justin Khoo, Senior Market Analyst - APAC, VT Markets.

What drove gold prices this week? Analysts believe the economic data releases after the US government shutdown, the longest in history, could provide the next big trigger for bullion. The US shutdown, which ended Thursday, created a major data gap, leaving the Fed and traders flying blind ahead of next month's policy meeting.

Manav Modi, Analyst  Precious Metal  Research, Motilal Oswal Financial Services, said there are weak economic data expectations after the shutdown, which is supporting bullion. Moreover, rebound after a brief profit booking and an increase in Shanghai gold inventories at a significant pace are some of the reasons supporting the rise, he added.

Central banks purchased more than 1,000 tons of gold each year in 2022 and 2023, and the 1,000-ton threshold has already been reached in 2024. Major buyers have been huge emerging-market economies such as China and Poland. Early forecasts for 2025 indicate that significant accumulation will continue in the region of 750-950 tons, providing a strong floor for demand even at higher prices.

Also Read | RBIs new gold loan norms force lenders to wind down repledged portfolios

Meanwhile, high volatility in the light of government data releases and suspense on the Fed's rate trajectory cannot be ruled out.

Gold investment strategy With gold gyrating wildly, analysts advise against chasing highs and use dips as opportunities to buy.

"With gold at lifetime highs and supported by long-term de-dollarisation tendencies, investors should remain optimistic but restrained. To reduce risk, avoid chasing highs and instead accumulate during 2-3% falls," said Khoo.

Modi, too, advised investors to lock in some profit near recent highs and wait for some dips to accumulate for the next leg up.

Also Read | Want to invest in gold ETF? Here is what you need to know

1,18,000-1,20,000 remains a strong support, while 1,30,0001,37,000 are possible targets from a medium-to-long-term perspective on domestic front, said the MOSL analyst.
Indian companies raised 50,106 crore through 25 qualified institutional placements (QIPs) during April-September 2025, according to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi). Although the deals were half in count, the funds mobilized were only 22.6% lower than the 64,750 crore raised from 50 QIPs in the year-ago period.

A QIP essentially gives listed companies a fast and relatively simple route to raise equity capital. Instead of approaching a broader set of shareholders, firms raise funds directly from institutional investors, including mutual funds, insurance companies, pension funds, foreign institutions, and banks.

The mechanism is straightforward. Companies get fresh capital without navigating a long regulatory process. And they often do it when the market mood is upbeat and their stock commands a premium. Yet, this is where the pattern turns familiar. Managements usually tap institutional money when their stock price is soaring and confidence is at its peak. But the period that follows often tells a different story.

Many companies turn to a QIP when their stock is already trading at stretched valuations. Once the funds are raised, the picture often shifts. Earnings lose pace, growth slows, and the share price begins to correct. Investors who entered during that phase of optimism (including institutions) often find themselves stuck at elevated levels. More often, they mark the point where the best part of the story is already priced in.

Mint looks at four examples where companies raised money through QIPs, only for their results to weaken and their share prices to follow the same path afterwards.

PG Electroplast: Down 20% from QIP price

PG Electroplast Ltd has emerged as a meaningful player in India's Electronic Manufacturing Services (EMS) ecosystem, a sector that continues to benefit from structural support such as the China+1 shift and the government's Make in India focus.

Product manufacturing (includes room ACs, washing machines, and air coolers) accounted for 71% of its FY25 revenue. The balance came from plastic moulding (20%), electronics (7%), and moulds (2%).

Riding a period of strong investor sentiment and premium valuations, PG raised 1,500 crore through a QIP in December at 699 per share, when the stock traded at more than 110 times price-to-earnings (P/E) multiple. The fundraise was for expansion, including investments in subsidiaries, debt reduction, and the company's planned foray into EV manufacturing.

In Q4 FY25, the strategy seemed well supported by the numbers: revenue doubled to 1,910 crore from 1,077 crore a year earlier, and profit after tax (PAT) showed a similar jump to 145 crore from 70 crore. However, the momentum didn't sustain.

In the first quarter of FY26, revenue growth decelerated sharply to 13.8%, and profit after tax (PAT) fell 20.2% to 67 crorea turnaround that surprised the market. The market punished the stock severely. PG Electroplast fell 38% in a matter of days, from 790 on 5 August 2025, to 490 by 14 August. It is currently trading at 560, down 47% from the January all-time high of 1,054.

The weakness in performance stemmed largely from lower-than-expected AC volumes and the impact of negative operating leverage. The shorter summer due to the early arrival of the monsoon left the company with elevated inventory and pressure on margins. As a result, PG Electroplast revised its FY26 guidance downward.

The management's internal target is to reach 9,000 crore in revenue by FY28, based on a plan to increase the gross block from 1,200 crore to 2,200 crore over the next two years. The assumption rests on maintaining asset turnover in the 4.5-5 times range at full utilization. This estimate now depends heavily on how quickly utilization normalizes and whether the AC cycle turns more favourable in the coming quarters.

Amber Enterprises: Down 10% from QIP price

Amber Enterprises India Ltd is a backwards-integrated and diversified B2B solutions provider operating across consumer durables, electronics (including EMS), railway subsystems and defence. Its strong presence in room AC manufacturing allows it to cater to nearly 70% of the AC bill of materials, making it a preferred partner for leading brands.

Also Read | Five best monopoly stocks for 2026 watchlist

The company holds an estimated 27% market share in room AC manufacturing in value terms, and has steadily expanded into producing fully automatic top-loading and front-loading washing machines, along with key components.

In September 2025, Amber raised 1,000 crore through a QIP at 7,950 per share, a level that reflected a P/E of more than 110 times. Most of the proceeds, around 900 crore, were directed toward repaying existing borrowings, with the remainder earmarked for general corporate purposes. The stock climbed further to 8,626 by late October, helped by positive sentiment around the fundraise.

The tone shifted soon after. Amber reported a loss of 32 crore in Q2FY26, accompanied by a 2.2% decline in revenue to 1,647 crore. Higher finance costs and elevated inventory levels in the room AC business largely drove the loss. The market reacted sharply, with the stock closing 7.7% lower on 7 November at 7,227 after the results.

The stock is now down about 10% from its QIP price ( 7,950) to 7,122, and nearly 17% below its October peak of 8,626. Management expects the excess inventory, a key reason behind the Q2 loss, to normalize by Q4 FY26, which will be crucial for retaining profitability.

Torrent Power: Down 14% from QIP price

Torrent Power Ltd is an integrated power utility company with a strong presence across the entire energy value chain, from generation, transmission, to distribution. The company has a total generation capacity of 7,992 megawatt (MW), comprising 2,730MW thermal energy and 4,900MW renewable energy.

The company serves over 4.2 million customers across three states and one Union territory. Torrent is exploring new avenues such as achieving 10 gigawatt (GW) of renewable capacity by 2030, developing large pumped storage hydro projects (with a cumulative potential capacity of about 8.4GW), and also planning to expand into green hydrogen and green ammonia.

Torrent Power raised 3,500 crore through a QIP in December 2024 at 1,503 per share, marking the Torrent Group's first equity issuance in more than three decades. Most of the funds went toward debt repayment ( 2,625 crore), while the remaining 822 crore was allocated to general corporate purposes. At the time of the fundraiser, the stock was trading close to its peak valuation of about 35 times earnings, reflecting the strong optimism surrounding the business.

But the quarters that followed didn't fully justify that elevated pricing.

In Q4 FY25, revenue remained flat at 6,456 crore compared with 6,529 crore a year earlier. Profit before tax also showed no movement, staying at 619 crore (versus 617 crore). We have not considered PAT due to a one-off tax adjustment during the period.

The slowdown became more visible in Q1FY26, when revenue declined 12.5% year-on-year to 7,906 crore, and PAT dropped 25.5% to 742 crore. The market reacted accordingly. Since the QIP, the stock has corrected about 14% to 1,294, and it is down nearly 25% from its 52-week high of 1,720 per share. Although Torrent's PAT grew 49.6% to 742 crore in Q2 FY26, the damage to sentiment had already been done.

Samvardhana Motherson International: Down 18% from QIP price

Samvardhana Motherson International Ltd is India's largest auto ancillary company and ranks among the top 15 global automotive suppliers. Its footprint spans multiple geographies and industries, giving it one of the most diversified portfolios in the auto component space.

In the second half of September 2024, the company raised 6,438 crore at 133 per share (adjusted for the 1:2 bonus issue in July 2025). The fundraising was structured as a composite offering of equity shares and compulsorily convertible debentures, with the proceeds used mainly for debt repayment and general corporate purposes.

At the time of the issue, the stock was trading at nearly 45 times earnings, reflecting the strong sentiment around the business. But the momentum didn't hold. From the March 2025 quarter onward, the company's numbers began to soften. Profitability declined 22.8% in Q4FY25, then 44.7%, and 10.8% over the next two quarters up to the September 2025 quarter.

The steady drop in earnings weighed on the stock, which now trades at around 109 per sharealmost 18% below the QIP price.

Looking ahead, Samvardhana Motherson has outlined its Vision 2030 plan, which marks the beginning of its seventh five-year strategy cycle. The company aims to increase content per vehicle, deepen its presence in emerging markets, and expand into new industries. The roadmap leans on three pillarsorganic expansion, acquisitions, and strategic partnershipswith the goal of achieving multi-fold growth over the coming decade.

Valuations matter more than fundraising.

The recent QIP cycle shows a clear pattern: when companies raise money at stretched valuations, even a slight slip in performance can trigger sharp corrections. PG Electroplast, Amber Enterprises, Torrent Power, and Samvardhana Motherson all tapped the market when optimism was high, but their subsequent results didn't fully support those elevated prices.

These are just a few examples. Sona BLW is also down 30% from its QIP price of 690 to the current price of 489. Swiggy is now planning to raise another 10,000 crore through a QIP, just after mobilising 4,500 crore via its IPO a year back. The move comes at a time when the quick-commerce battle is heating up again, and competitors are burning cash to chase growth.

Also Read | Tata Power needs to tackle a stumbling block to earnings growth

For investors, the takeaway is simple. A QIP may strengthen a balance sheet or fund expansion, but the valuation at which it is priced leaves little room for error. When expectations run ahead of fundamentals, the downside tends to arrive faster than the growth that was promised.

For more such analysis, read Profit Pulse.

Madhvendra has over seven years of experience in equity markets and writes detailed research articles on listed Indian companies, sectoral trends, and macroeconomic developments.

The writer does not hold the stocks discussed in this article.

The purpose of this article is only to share interesting charts, data points, and thought-provoking opinions. It is NOT a recommendation. If you wish to consider an investment, you are strongly advised to consult your advisor. This article is strictly for educational purposes only.
Penny stock under 10: Pro Fin Capital share price is set to be in focus of the stock market investors on Monday, 17 November 2025, after the company announced that it has received a letter of intent (LOI) for a 25% stake acquisition move, according to an exchange filing.

In the BSE filing, the company disclosed that it has received a letter of intent from Hong Kong-based Excellence Creative to acquire a 25% stake in Pro Fin Capital for a price of 22 crore.

The company engaged in the financial sector and capital market services has received a Letter of Intent (LOI) from Excellence Creative Ltd, Hong Kong to explore possibility of acquiring up to 25%of the equity share capital of Pro Fin Capital Services Ltd at a proposed price of 22 crore, the company informed the stock exchanges through its filing.

The company will consider the LOI and the proposed transaction in its upcoming board meeting.

Company remains focused on scaling our trading, credit and advisory services and delivering consistent long-term growth for our clients and shareholders through prudent capital-allocation, strong risk management, Abhay Gupta, the director of Pro Fin Capital Services.

Pro Fin Capital share price trend Pro Fin Capital share price closed 1.07% lower at 9.21 after Friday's stock market session, compared to 9.31 at the previous market close. The company announced its acquisition move on Saturday, 15 November 2025.

Pro Fin Capital shares have given stock market investors more than 1,301% returns on their investment in the last five years, and over 208% gains in the last one-year period.

View full Image Pro Fin Capital Stock Performance Over Time ( Created with AI )

On a year-to-date (YTD) basis, the company's shares have risen 82.09% in 2025, but have lost 16.21% in the last one month period. Pro Fin Capital shares have dropped 3.34% in the last five market sessions on the Indian stock market.

Shares of the company hit their 52-week high level at 13.14 on 9 October 2025, while the 52-week low level stood at 2.94 on 14 November 2024, according to the data collected from the BSE website. Pro Fin Capital's market capitalisation (M-Cap) stood at 272.89 crore as of the stock market close on Friday, 14 November 2025.

Read all stories by Anubhav Mukherjee

Disclaimer: This story is for educational purposes only. The views and recommendations expressed are those of individual analysts or broking firms, not Mint. We advise investors to consult with certified experts before making any investment decisions, as market conditions can change rapidly and circumstances may vary.
Mumbai: Home-furnishings brand Wakefit is gearing up for a 1,400-crore public listing in early December, three people with direct knowledge of the matter said.

The initial public offering (IPO) also includes a 200-crore pre-IPO round that will see participation from foreign and domestic institutional investors before the anchor investor portion opens, two of the people said, requesting anonymity. They added that the IPO will comprise primary and secondary share sales.

The company had earlier filed draft papers with the regulator in June, where it outlined plans to raise 468.2 crore in primary money to more than double its store count. Adding in secondary transactions, the total issue size now stands at 1,400 crore, according to the people cited earlier.

Wakefit declined to comment on the development.

The Bengaluru-headquartered company joins a growing list of startups that is looking to tap the public market. In recent weeks, several companies including Lenskart, Groww, PhysicsWallah, Meesho, Fractal Analytics have either gone public or are in the process of doing so in the current quarter, marking one of the busiest periods in the capital markets this year.

The first two quarters of 2025 (January-June) saw nine issues each, followed by 46 listings in the July-September quarter, and 25 so far in the current ongoing quarter, according to data shared by Prime Database earlier this week. That is higher than the 91 listings in the entire 2024, according to Primedatabase.

The company has appointed Axis Capital, IIFL Securities, and Nomura to help with the issue.

The IPO will also see an offer-for-sale (OFS) where its current owners including founders and major private equity investors will collectively sell about 58.4 million shares.

Wakefits promoters Ankit Garg and Chaitanya Ramalingegowda and investors including Peak XV, Investcorp, Verlinvest, Paramark KB, and SAI Global India Fund, among others, are expected to sell under the offer for sale (OFS).

The company had raised multiple rounds of capital from these marquee investors from 2018 to 2023. In the last round in January 2023, Wakefit raised 320 crore from investors led by Investcorp, with participation from existing investorsSequoia Capital India, Verlinvest, and SIG.

Founded in 2016, Wakefit sells mattresses, beds, sofas, and home furnishings under its flagship brand, largely through its own website and app. It has expanded sales to a mix of e-commerce, experience centres, and company owned and operated stores.

The company reported an income of 994.3 crore and a net loss of 8.8 crore in the first nine months of FY25, according to the draft prospectus. In the previous fiscal, total income was at 1,017.3 crore, up from 820 crore in FY23, while net loss narrowed to 15.05 crore from 145.68 crore in the same period.

The pre-IPO lure

Mint had reported earlier this week that big investors are swooping in on companies right before their IPOs open, locking in shares that would be harder to get once subscriptions start.

In such transactions often called pre-IPO placements, investors snap up unlisted shares on the eve of an IPO. This is different from pre-IPO fundraises in which investors buy 12-18 months before the IPO, and anchor investments where large investors buy shares reserved for institutions in IPOs.

Commenting on this trend for the earlier Mint report, Prakash Bulusu, joint chief executive officer (CEO) of IIFL Capital had said, As public market sentiment has turned constructive and new listings are seeing healthy subscription and after-market performance, institutional investors are looking to secure allocations ahead of the anchor book."

He further explained that such deals allow them to lock into valuations that are often perceived to be more attractive than post-listing levels, while also building a relationship with the company early.

In the recent set of listings across tech-enabled financial services, healthcare platforms, and premium consumer brands, this pattern has been visiblewhere late-stage investors have come in just weeks or months before the draft red herring prospectus roadshow," he said.

Akhoury Winnie Shekhar, Partner at CMS INDUSLAW had also echoed similar sentiments. We are seeing a clear uptick in pre-IPO funding rounds among companies with strong growth narratives and sustained investor appetite." Shekhar had said, adding that a number of these rounds now feature both primary and secondary components, allowing early investors and employees to unlock partial liquidity ahead of listing.

This also comes against the backdrop of recent regulatory developments, including Sebis direction restricting mutual funds from participating in pre-IPO placements with investment activity likely shifting towards alternative pools such as AIFs and PMS.

Buoyant primary market

Broadly, Indias IPO market has been buoyant this year after a slower start. According to a Bernstein report, Indian companies have raised $14 billion in 2025 via IPOs, ranking fourth globally behind the US ($53 billion), Hong Kong ($23 billion) and China ($16 billion).

According to Primedatabase, last year the total IPO fundraise was 1,59,784 crore.

The year has seen marquee listings from companies such as JSW Cement Ltd, Tata Capital Ltd, Ather Energy Ltd and LG Electronics India Ltd.

Other prominent issues include HDB Financial Services Ltd, Indiqube Spaces Ltd, Bluestone Jewellery and Lifestyle Ltd, We Work India Ltd, Smartworks Ltd, Orkla India Ltd and Hexaware Technologies Ltd.

At least 30 more companies, including Wakefit Innovations Ltd, Milky Mist Dairy Food Ltd, Curefoods India Ltd, Shiprocket, Capillary Technologies, Shadowfax Technologies Ltd and Gaja Capital Ltd have received regulatory approval in the past six months, paving the way for a potential listing next year, the data showed.
At Experimenter, Colaba, Charred Hyphal Mat hangs suspended from the ceiling. The patterns formed by the interweaving of jute and coir ropes and fishing net lend this work a certain fragility and porosity. Inspired by hyphae, or thread-like structures that form mycelial networks in the ground, this installation carries forth Sri Lankan artist Pushpakanthan Pakkiyarajahs exploration of organic communication and regeneration within forest environ ments". Be it his installations or works on paper such as Blooded Flowerscape, the artist repeatedly foregrounds black as the hue of choice, with pops of colour at times, to create a portrait of wounded ecologies witnessed during the three decades of civil war in Sri Lanka. The ongoing show, No Race, No Colour, features such new and commissioned works conceived by the artist over the past four years to tell stories of conflict and interdependence through the lens of living ecologies.

Meanwhile, at the ongoing Art Mumbai fair at Mahalaxmi Racecourse, another art ist is showing the fraught past of Sri Lanka through a different medium. The softness of fabric serves as a background for some tough realities as Hema Shironi presents a landscape of conflict. In the tactility of the green mesh, often used in construction to shield the promise of a new beginning, she frames an image of a cookie-cutter house presented to families for the home that was taken awayan attempt at reconciliation in the aftermath of war," states Rad hika Hettiarachchi in a curatorial essay. These works were earlier showcased in September in Delhi as part of the twin exhibitions from the island nation, Homes Wrapped in Cloth, Borders Raised in Flags and After Aphantasias by Shrine Empire.

Contemporary artistic voices from Sri Lanka are making their presence felt across South Asia through gallery exhibitions, institutional shows and participation in fairs. Their expression, centred around a lived experience of conflict, has universal appeal, especially at a time when different parts of the world are witnessing some form of violence.

INTERCONNECTED HISTORIES

Artist Anoli Perera, for instance, has, in her extensive practice, situated personal family histories within specific historical moments through sculptures and installations featuring text, objects, used cloth and paper. She looks at the female body as a vessel of memory, belonging and connects it with her mother. By using fabric, Perera harks back to her childhood memories of stitching with her mother, who maintained a sewing book. The way cloth changes and modifies over time is a meta phor for the changes that a body goes through in its lifetime. Today, she is joined by Pakkiyarajah, Kingsley Gunatillake, Pala Pothupitye, Jagath Weerasinghe, Chathuri Nissansala, Rupaneethan Pakkiyarajah and Thilini Jinadasa in showcasing contemporary perspectives from the island nation on a global stage.

The Sri Lankan practices are now firmly enmeshed within the broader art ecosystem in South Asia. Anahita Taneja, director, Shrine Empire, attributes this to interconnected histories within the region, which allow viewers from different countries to resonate with the works. Internationally, art from South Asia is getting a wider platform. Important museums are interested in contemporary art from the region. We want to bridge the gap by getting emerging artists from Sri Lanka to the fore as well," she adds.

View Full Image Pala Pothupitiye, The Legacy of Superman 05. Courtesy: the artist/ Shrine Empire

In such a scenario, curators need to be watchful of the dangers of presenting a unidimensional narrative wherein literal interpretations of conflict are showcased, and artists from Sri Lanka end up getting stereotyped. Even as the number of shows of artistsboth solo and groupin major art centres across the country increase, the ground reality, which is in flux, may not always be represented by the commercial visibility of artists," says Natasha Ginwala, artistic director, Colomboscope, an interdisciplinary arts festival and creative learning platform founded in Sri Lanka in 2013.

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To counter this, she has been working at the grassroots with artists who have witnessed ethnic violence, social marginalisation and displacement in Sri Lanka, particularly in the north and east. The dialogues are nuanced, drawing from communal stories and personal experiences and relate to subjects such as environmental justice, plantation histories, labour in upcountry tea estates, migration and linguistic plurality. We have also hosted diaspora artists to share stories of return and belonging and not just displacement," adds Ginwala, who recently presented projects and dialogues in Delhi in collaboration with the Gujral Foundation. The showcase, featuring artists such as Chathuri Nissansala, Hema Shironi, Pushpakanthan Pakkiyarajah, Prasad Hettiarachchi, Rajni Perera, and more, addressed many subjects such as indigenous sovereignty, feminist fantasy and ecological ruination.

This event was also a prelude to Colomboscopes ninth edition, Rhythm Alliances, which will be held across sites in Colombo from 2131 January 2026. Ginwala is trying to bring in a certain complexity by centering the body as an agent of memory and looking at different ways of engaging with architecture, music and storytelling in the city. We are tuning in to rhythm to capture a certain cultural continuity within Sri Lanka, and thinking of vocabularies that pass on through song, ritual and traditional instruments. For instance, different drumming practices are prevalent in the north, east and south. The island is somehow connected through the vibrations of the drum, which allows us to think of kinship in a different way," she adds.

WORKING ACROSS DISCIPLINES

For Feroze Gujral, founder and director, Gujral Foundation, such presentations are critical to her role as a patron to ensure that these urgent voicesoften complex and challengingare not sidelined. By supporting Sri Lankan contemporary practices on global platforms, she hopes to sustain a dialogue about memory, justice, and a responsibility to the environments and communities we inherit. Exhibitions and presentations are acknowledging the physical and psychological rupture in the artists lives when the ancestral land is reclassified as a military zone or as a ruin. Home then becomes something spectral, a memory one keeps returning to.

In Gujrals view, artists respond by re-mapping geographies through sculpture, photography, installation and soundinsisting that memory has its own sovereignty even when territory is contested or erased. When Sri Lankan artists address displacement, they are also speaking of ecological devastation, resource conflict, and climate vulnerability. These are not separate issues; they are interconnected consequences of war and its aftermath. Creating space for artists to work alongside historians, environmental researchers, and community archivists allows art to move from reflection into propositionimagining models of shared recovery and collective futures," she adds. The materiality of the works is quite significant. It doesnt just allude to what is visible to the eye, but contains several metaphors within. Pakkiyarajah, for instance, transforms everyday materials to allude to a certain fragility.

View Full Image Prasad Hettiarachchi, 'M H R J A 4 VI', 2025, watercolour on paper. Courtesy: Colomboscope

"At this moment, many parts of the world are embroiled in war and conflict. As a result, my own memories of violence keep repeating. I choose black for solidar ity, inviting the audience to think about the past and future together. I evoke visions of charred ecologies and humanity through the contrast of black and white. The mycelium-inspired works talk about connected memories and how everyone can heal together," Pakkiyarajah says.

Pradeep Thalawatta, 46, too creates linkages between the external environ ment and the interiority of the self through his practice. Born in Rathnapura and based in Colombo, he works with found objects to create layers of memories in his work. His ongoing show, Go Home is Within Me, at the Saskia Fernando Gallery, Sri Lanka, is inspired by the aspirations and political awakening of the youth in his country as seen in the protests following the economic struggles of 2022. Thalawatta, who is represented in India by Latitude 28, uses sandpaper, photo prints and tar from the sites of the protest to forge connections between collective aspira tions and personal dreams. In I Still Locked II, a reminder of the peak of the economic recession, (he) rein vents the gas cylinders into collection boxes for the gods. Borrowed from Jaffnas street vernacular, the installation explores the relationship between com modities, faith and survival with satire," states the curatorial note.

EVERYDAY OBJECTS

By using found objects, Thalawatta creates collaborative works with the young citizenry of Sri Lanka and those who came before him. Every material has its own temperament and history. Sandpaper, for instance, can be used for both erasing and giving shape. Through my work, I hope to create a new dialogue between image and material," he says. Another prominent voice, Kingsley Gunatillake, who has shown his work at Blueprint12 in Delhi, also uses found objects to create sculptural forms of charred and wounded books. Through this, he relives the burning of the Jaffna Library in 1981. His works become an embodiment of lived history and shared memory, thus acting as witness to and language of" the post-war landscape.

Textile has also emerged as a material of choice. By using this symbol of the domestic sphere, artists draw an arc from the personal to the political. T. Vinoja, 34, an art educator in Batticaloa, showed her work at A Moving Cloak in Terrain at Experimenter, Colaba, in September. She collects stories and fabrics from different parts of the island, and creates tapestries of a narrative of collective loss.

View Full Image T. Vinoja, Shattered Horizons. Courtesy: the artist/ Experimenter

Like Pakkiyarajah, Vinoja feels that memories never go away. The land itself contains memory. When states and nations create borders, they divide land. This begs questions of ownership and domination. A divided landscape is always wounded; as a result people who are dis placed from it also have wounded histo ries," she says. When Vinoja sees the scars of displace ment on peoples bodies, she feels com pelled to express those through fabric, which is like a second skin on the body. When I add lines, marks or dots, I am con necting the dots between the homeland and the new land that people have to con sider home. The dots are like an aerial per spective of this journey. The colour of each thread too has meaningthrough them, I create broken landscapes of the country and the soul," says Vinoja.

Also Read | For artist Shibu Natesan, little details capture reality

MOMENTS OF JOY

Artists also reflect on moments of joy small and bigin the post-war scenario. Siva Kajendran, who will have a solo show next year at Delhis Gallery Pristine Contemporary, has one such practice. Having lost his family in the civil war, he feels that citizens like him have lost the ability to cherish everyday things because of the fear of violence. Kajendran tries to derive joy from daily momentsplaying with his nephew, going fishing, cooking shrimp for dinner or simply sitting under a coconut tree. His paintings articulate that sense of acceptance of the everyday.

Thilini Jinadasa, who is showing her works in What Memory Built in Colour at the same gallery, also uses colour to convey emotion and memory. Inspired by the gradations of orange, blue, green and brown that fill the landscape of Sri Lanka, she reflects on the natural elements around her that make life worth living. According to gallerist Arjun Sawhney, Jinadasas usage of oil on canvas gives her works the feel of a watercolour. Though trained in design, she found her calling in painting, with each work acting as a journey of self discovery.
At the Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum, Mumbai, you can see the visual of an intricate bas relief created for New India Assurance Building by sculp tor N.G. Pansare between 1935-37. The structure was designed by Master, Sathe and Bhuta, an architectural firm established in 1932 that brought a unique indigenous touch to Art Deco in Mumbai. The bas relief murals they commissioned were replete with imagery of farmers and the working class.

Near this is a sketch of a residence by Henry Hohouser, an architect in Miami, Florida, known for his Art Deco-style buildings in the 1930s, featuring stepped rooflines, curved edges, eyebrows" on windows, and the use of neon. These images, part of the show Ocean Drive to Marine Drive: Mapping a Century of Art Deco, highlight the architectural kinship between two cities, Mumbai and Miami, which have the largest collection of Art Deco-style buildings in the world. It also brings to the fore efforts of architects, artists and planners from the two cities such as Perin J. Mistry and Barbara Baer Capitman in the evolution of this design movement.

The exhibition, on view till 25 November, is part of Art Deco Alive, a twin-city festival that celebrates 100 years of Exposition Internationale des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels Modernes, the 1925 Paris design show that gave the movement its name and identity. Curated by Atul Kumar, founder trustee of Art Deco Mumbai Trust, Ocean Drive to Marine Drive allows viewers to make connections across disciplines between Deco elementsclean lines, a combination of form and functionality, curvilinear forms and geometric patternsthat gained popularity in the 1930s, be it in design, art, architecture and urban heritage.

Also Read | How India continues to make Art Deco its own

Whether it is Mumbai or Miami, you can see similarities in the Art Deco styles that came up in the two cities. Take the frozen fountain by French sculptor Renee Lalique, which made an appear ance in the architecture of both urban spaces. The show allows us to both look deeper inwards and across," says Smiti Kanodia, a Mumbai-based entrepreneur, who co-founded Art Deco Alive with Salma Merchant Rahmathulla and Gayatri Hingorani Dewan from Miami. Interesting regional deviations from the global design vocabulary are also on showcase at the museum such as fonts on building fronts in northern Mumbai changing to Gujarati, Devanagari and Urdu in the 1930s-40s. Statues of god dess Laxmi, motifs of the sun and the lotus started coming to Art Deco build ings," she adds.
Andys view

One of the consequences of US tariffs is that Chinas manufacturing machine has shifted its exports around the world, and no one is complaining more than Europe. Authorities there have launched dozens of anti-dumping and anti-subsidy probes as a torrent of cheap Chinese products swamps EU markets, including EVs, medical devices, and tires. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warns that trade relations with China have reached a clear inflection point.

Yet by far the more consequential China Shock is reverberating around emerging economies, especially Chinas neighbors. These countries are struggling to cope with an export juggernaut  one that is hyper-competitive both at the frontiers of technology, and at the trailing edge.

China is a superpower with sweatshops: In southern Guangdong province, the worlds factory floor, robot arms help assemble batteries for BYD, drones for DJI, and 5G network gear for Huawei, while in cramped workshops nearby, young women from the countryside cut and stitch rock-bottom priced clothing  $12 jackets, $6 skirts, and T-shirts for as little as $2.

This devastatingly effective combination has enabled China to export its way out of a prolonged post-COVID economic slump that exacerbated already massive industrial overcapacity. Now, as US President Donald Trumps tariffs kick in, its export machine has kicked into higher gear: Chinas trade surplus this year is on track to soar to a record $1.2 trillion.

China is now competing head-on not just against other advanced economies but the most vulnerable ones. In effect, it is blocking the ladder to prosperity for countries in the Global South.

Indonesia lost 250,000 jobs in its backbone textile industry between 2022 and 2024 because of a deluge of Chinese imports, according to the Indonesia Fiber and Filament Yarn Producer Association  and another half-million may now be at risk. Some of the low-end merchandise arrives in small packages from online retailers; other goods are smuggled in to avoid import duties. This year, one of Indonesias largest garment enterprises went bankrupt, closing its doors on more than 10,000 workers.

Even weavers of traditional Indonesian  a fabric made through a dyeing technique using wax  have given up trying to compete with cheap Chinese knock-offs.

In Thailand, the Chinese export tsunami has precipitated a crisis among smaller firms making car parts, electrical equipment, and consumer goods, stoking fears of deindustrialization. Village-based cottage industries are particularly at risk; for example, makers of hand-painted ceramic rooster bowls have been idled by Chinese fakes that sell for one fifth of the price.
I learned all that thanks to an enthusiastic Instagrammer.

Radhu Babus teashop in south Kolkata is old but not quite 100. I did not think of it as hidden since its tea was so famous that film stars like Raj Kapoor and Uttam Kumar are known to have come there for it. The story goes that Raj Kapoor would even take its prepped fish fries and cutlets back to Mumbai where his chef would fry them for him.

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Also for a hidden" gem, it was hiding in plain sight, as it were. Our neighbour would stand on her balcony and try to peer into its kitchen to see if she could decipher what went into their famous chicken korma. Every morning clusters of people gathered in front of it on the street to order its tea and toast. Many of them used to sit on the stoop of our house, drinking their tea and reading the newspaper (and cheerfully blocking our doorway). In the evening the menu expanded to fish cutlets, vegetable chops or croquettes and mutton stew (still available by the quarter plate). All of it was equally popular. A menu on a billboard hangs in front of the restaurant with its name clearly emblazoned on top. The influencer stood in front of that same menu as he breathlessly declared it was such a hidden gem" it did not even have its name on a signboard.

In the world of clickbait social media, everything is a hidden gem. The other day I came across a listicle generated by a reputed national media house. It listed five hidden gems of Kolkata. The last item was Victoria Memorial, perhaps the citys most iconic landmark. Its such a standout landmark that the white marble edifice had to be covered with cow-dung to hide it during Japanese air raids in World War II. Now it has been re-christened a hidden gem".

As has the pice hotel around the corner which is actually over 100 years old. When the pice hotel, known for its cheap homely meals, suddenly started popping up all over my feed, I asked my mother why we had never eaten there. She was puzzled. She could not understand why would we go to have a homestyle fish-dal-and-rice meal at a pice hotel when we ate that at home every day. She had a point.

Growing up in Kolkata eating out had to be all about what we could not cook at home. It meant chimney soup, American chop suey, tandoori chicken, paper dosa, Beckty" meuniere and prawn cocktails. We never looked for hidden gems. We were resolutely loyal to the tried and tested restaurants. We had to be. Eating out was expensivea rare treat that was saved for special occasions like New Years Day or exceptionally good examination results. No one wanted to risk a hidden gem". We went to the old favourites. More often than not we ordered the old favourites at the old favourites.

Every now and then when an aunt or uncle visited from abroad, we got to go to a restaurant at a five-star hotel. The power of the NRI dollar or pound sterling made it feel like less of a criminal extravagance. Then we sometimes dared to try out items that sounded like exotic fairy-tale creatures, dishes with names like Lobster Thermidor and Baked Alaska.

Now restaurants and cafes open every other day and every new kid on the block needs to make its mark. On Instagram. Sometimes the menu feels an afterthought to the decorthe usual mishmash of per-peri fries, fish fingers and molten lava chocolate pastries. It comes liberally sprinkled with words from a globetrotters menu: eggs Benedict, bibimbap, quesadilla. They do not really taste like any of the items they claim to be, the names just a sprinkle of worldly sophistication to the menu. A little extra zing. Much like the ubiquitous peri-peri seasoning.

In this brave new world of cafes and restaurants, we are promiscuous consumers. I am happy to try the new cafe on the block and never go back to it. Not because it was terrible but because theres always something newer opening around the corner. Brand loyalty means little to me anymore. The old favourites, famous for devilled crab and chelo kebabs are reserved for nostalgia trips when childhood friends and expat cousins come into town and want to relive their childhoods. Then we go to those restaurants, complain we cannot find any crab in the pool of mayo that passes as devilled crab but we forgive the trespasses for old times sake.

In this landscape, the food content creator has discovered the hidden gem". Its a social media magic trick to package old wine in new bottles. It might defy logic to call something thats been a neighbourhood favourite for 75 years a hidden gem. But then again, its surely hidden for somebody out there.

Of course, some of the hidden gems themselves are bemused. Our pice hotel has gotten a facelift and put up newspaper clippings about its new-found fame on the wall but a friend complains the quality does not always keep up with demand these days. He is worried they might gentrify and stop serving on banana leaves. Or worse, use them as a fashion statement. Meanwhile, the phlegmatic owner is amused that people now come from across town, sometimes from a different town altogether, to eat what is basically ghar ka khana.

The proprietor of Radhu Babu across the street, used to the likes of Raj Kapoor, is nonchalant about all the social media attention. A few heritage" awards have come their way. The little shop, which barely has space for a couple of benches, does not bother displaying the awards and certificates. There is no room anyway. Most of their clientele sit on plastic chairs on the sidewalk and someone dodges traffic, crosses the street and delivers their tea and snacks to them.

What is precious about true hidden gems has always been that connection to the neighbourhood, the familiarity of the teashop that knows your name and does not ask for your mobile number. The real value doesnt come from influencers discovering" them much like Columbus discovered America. Neither is the real value some secret ingredient in their batter. I love Radhu Babus fish fries but I cannot say there isnt another hole-in-the-wall shop across city that doesnt make excellent fish fries as well. The korma was a treat but our real treat was to boil an egg for the leftover gravy and make an egg curry the next day. And they always gave us extra gravy. The real value comes from that connection to a place, to the frenetic beat of its kitchen where the big tea kettle hisses and the lazy rhythms of the clientele sitting on the streets enjoying their tea and adda. That connection cannot be captured in a reel.

I read about a young man who would come to the shop in the 1970s as a student. One day he didnt have enough money on him and got 10 credit which he never had a chance to pay back. Decades later, as an NRI in London he made a trip back to Kolkata and revisited the teashop. Of course no one was around who remembered that long-ago debt. He tried to pay it back (with interest) but the proprietor refused his money. In the end he donated it to the staff, a gem of a story that was never captured on an Instagram reel.

These days when I stumble upon a true hidden gem, a sweetshop perhaps that sells the lightest whitest mishti doi, I selfishly keep it close to my heart.

Sometimes the only way to safeguard hidden gems is to keep them hidden.

Cult Friction is a fortnightly column on issues we keep rubbing up against.

Sandip Roy is a writer, journalist and radio host. He posts @sandipr

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With Bihar elections having come to a close after results were announced on Friday giving a clear mandate to NDA, one fledgling leader who made waves, at least prior to the results, was none other than political consultant-turned-politician Prashant Kishor.

His party Jan Suraaj reportedly spent more money on digital ads than Congress, JD(U) and RJD put together while BJP spent the highest, said a report by AltNews.

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At several forums, Kishor publicly stated that he personally donated around 98.76 crore of his personal earnings in the past three years to Jan Suraaj, a party he founded. All political parties across the spectrum tend to receive donations based on their popularity and ideology.

BJP, for instance, reportedly received highest amount of donation amounting to 2,243 crore from 8,353 donors across India in 2023-24, shows the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) data, a report stated.

Although Kishor paid 20 crore income tax on his income ( 241 crore between 2021-2024), but was he entitled to claim deduction on his donation of 98.76 crore that he made to Jan Suraaj? Let us find out

Are donations to political parties taxable? Typically political donations are exempt from income tax and deduction is allowed under the income of individuals. Under the new tax regime, however, no such deduction is allowed for donating money to political parties.

Donation to political parties is totally exempt from tax but not under the new tax regime, says Chirag Chauhan, a Mumbai-based Chartered accountant.

"Genuine Donations to political parties are allowed as deduction under Income tax Act. However, if you are using the same as mechanism of tax evasion, same is not allowed," says chartered accountant Pratibha Goyal, partner of PD Gupta & Company, a Delhi-based CA firm.

However, the income from which donations are made ought to be from explained sources. Otherwise, these could be treated as unexplained expenditure under Section 69C and taxed accordingly.

Political donations made from properly accounted income, whether tax-paid or exempt, do not attract tax liability. But if such contributions come from unexplained sources, they may be treated as unexplained expenditure under Section 69C and taxed at 60% plus surcharge and cess," says O.P. Yadav, Tax Evangelist, Prosperr.io and Former Principal Commissioner of Income Tax.

Old Tax regime Vs New Tax Regime Under the old tax regime, donors can claim 100% deduction for donations made to political parties. These deductions are allowed for individuals as well as companies under section 80GGC and section 80GGB of Income Tax (I-T) Act, respectively.

These deductions (old tax regime) are permitted for any sum contributed to a registered political party so long as the contribution is made through a non-cash method.

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However, these deductions are not allowed under the new tax regime and can not be claimed against income taxed at special rates, explains Mr Yadav.

Under the Old Tax Regime, non-cash contributions to political parties or electoral trusts qualify for deduction under Sections 80GGB and 80GGC subject to the overall Chapter VI-A limit of not exceeding the gross total income. This deduction is unavailable under the New Tax Regime and also for companies taxed under Sections 115BA, 115BAA, and 115BAB. Additionally, these deductions cannot be claimed against income taxed at special rates, such as STCG under Section 111A or LTCG under Sections 112 and 112A, adds Yadav of Prosperr.io.
Delhi residents are grappling with the issue of high air pollution even as the overall air quality improved slightly on November 14 and moved to very poor range from severe air quality index (AQI). According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)data at 6:15 AM, the national capital recorded an AQI of 386, a remarkable improvement from yesterday's 404.

Despite the improvement, many air quality monitoring stations recorded AQI in severe category. Among a total of 39 stations, 15 recorded air quality in severe range with the Wazirpur, Bawana and Mundka being the worst performers. Best AQI was recorded in Lodhi Road which fell in poor range.

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This marked improvement in AQI comes days after farm fires contributed significantly almost 22% to the deteriorating air quality. For almost three days, the AQI hovered in severe range before finally improving on Friday. Contribution of stubble burning to Delhis PM2.5 levels dropped 8.54% on Friday, down from 12% the previous day. Smoke from crop residue burning in Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh contributes significantly to Delhis pollution.

Centres Decision Support System (DSS) data indicated that transport emissions accounted for 19.8%, the highest share of all sources.

What is Delhi's AQI forecast? Pollutants are trapped close to the surface due to low temperatures and calm winds. The air quality forecast indicates that the stubble-burning contribution will rise to 16.3 % on Saturday.

A total of 72 farm fire incidents were observed in Punjab, PTI reported citing Satellite data. As many as15 farm fire incidents were reported in Haryana and 293 in Uttar Pradesh on November 13.

Saturday's forecast predicts shallow fog for the capital city. On November 15, the maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to settle around 28 degrees and 10 degrees Celsius.

Amid choking air quality and health concerns, senior advocate Vikas Pahwa urged the Delhi High Court to temporarily shift to hybrid mode or virtual hearing to safeguard the health of lawyers, litigants, and court staff.

In a detailed letter addressed to Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya, Pahwa highlights that

Vikas Pahwa emphasised that the city's AQI remained in the 'severe' category, frequently touching 450-600 in several monitoring zones in a detailed letter addressed to Chief Justice Devendra Kumar. He further highlighted that PM2.5 levels fall squarely in the medically defined toxic and life-threatening range. He alleged that PM2.5 levels are more than three times the permissible limit of 60 mg/m and have crossed 190 mg/m, ANI reported.
Akasa Air is set to begin operations from Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), connecting the city directly with four major Indian destinations. The airline will operate its maiden flight between Delhi and Navi Mumbai International Airport on December 25.

This will be followed by the commencement of scheduled flights connecting Navi Mumbai with Goa (December 25), Delhi and Kochi (December 26), and Ahmedabad (December 31).

Bookings for the new routes are now open via Akasa Air's website, Android and iOS apps, as well as through multiple leading travel agents.

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With this, Akasa Air becomes one of the first airlines to commence operations from NMIA, marking a key junction in its growth trajectory.

Commenting on the announcement, Praveen lyer, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer, Akasa Air, said, "The commencement of operations from Navi Mumbai International Airport represents a landmark moment for Akasa Air and a defining step in India's aviation evolution. NMIA will serve as a key enabler in establishing a dual-airport ecosystem that enhances connectivity, mobility, and choice for travellers."

"For Akasa Air, NMIA strengthens our strategic presence in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and western India, allowing us to optimise capacity deployment and capture new demand pools across. Our early association with NMIA reflects our conviction in India's infrastructure-led growth story and our commitment to fostering balanced regional development. As we scale operations from the airport, we remain committed to playing our part in shaping a modern, efficient, and sustainable aviation ecosystem for India's next decade of growth," he added.

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Akasa Air will progressively ramp up operations from NMIA, scaling up to 300 domestic and 50 international flights per week. As part of its broader network strategy, the airline is also set to ramp up to 10 parking bases by the end of FY2027, with a focused international expansion into key Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian markets
The Delhi Crime Branch on Saturday filed two separate FIRs against Al-Falah University, which is under the scanner following a car blast in Delhi near Red fort.

The university is located at Dhauj in Haryana's Faridabad district near Delhi and also houses a hospital on its campus.

The FIRs have been filed for cheating and under forgery, over alleged false accreditation claims made by the university.

The FIRs were registered following actions initiated by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).

Both the institutions had flagged serious irregularities at the university during their reviews.

Today, a team from the Delhi Crime Branch visited the Al Falah University office in Okhla. The Delhi Police has issued a notice to the university and requested certain documents from them, reported ANI quoting Delhi Police.

Also Read | Al-Falah University breaks silence after two doctors held in terror module case

Why is the University under scanner? The car blast in Delhi took place hours after police busted the white collar terror module and the arrest of eight people.

Dr Umar Nabi, who, according to officials, was driving the car that exploded in Delhi, was also working with the university as an assistant professor. Three doctors associated with the university have been detained by the investigating agencies.

According to its website, Al Falah University was established by the Haryana Legislative Assembly under the Haryana Private Universities Act. The Al Falah Medical College is also affiliated to the university.

A day ago, the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) also issued a show-cause notice to Al-Falah University for displaying false accreditation on its website.

In the show-cause notice, the NAAC said it has noted that the Al-Falah University, "which is neither accredited nor applied for accreditation by NAAC", has publicly displayed on its website that "Al-Falah University is an endeavour of Al-Falah Charitable Trust, which has been running three colleges on the campus, namely Al Falah School of Engineering and Technology (since 1997, Graded A by NAAC), Brown Hill College of Engineering and Technology (since 2008), and Al-Falah School of Education and Training (since 2006, Graded A by NAAC)."

"This is absolutely wrong and misleading the public, especially the parents, students and stakeholders," the show-cause notice read.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar chaired the Consul Generals Conference in New York on Friday and appreciated the Embassy and Consulates for strengthening India-US ties. Jaishankar also reviewed bilateral ties with the US.

In a post on X, Jaishankar said, Chaired a Consul Generals Conference in New York today, attended by Embassy of India in Washington DC, Consulate General of India in New York, Consulate General of India in Los Angeles, Consulate General of India in Seattle, Consulate General of India in San Francisco, Consulate General of India in Atlanta, Consulate General of India in Houston, Consulate General of India in Chicago and Consulate General of India in Boston.

"Reviewed our bilateral ties and support for diaspora activities. Appreciate the commitment and efforts of our Embassy and Consulates to strengthening the India-US partnership," Jaishankar wrote on X.

Meanwhile, the Consulate General of India in New York said in a post on X, Team CGI New York was honoured to welcome External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. His vision, guidance and leadership strengthen our commitment to work for the India-USA partnership.

Earlier on Friday, Jaishankar met United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York on Thursday and discussed the current global order, regional flashpoints and the role of multilateralism.

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In a post on X, Jaishankar said he valued Guterres' assessment of global developments and thanked him for his "clear and consistent support" for India's growth.

"Good to meet with UNSG @antonioguterres in New York today. Valued his assessment of the current global order and its implications for multilateralism. Also appreciated his perspectives on various regional hotspots. Thank him for clear and consistent support for India's growth and development. Look forward to welcoming him in India," he wrote.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting, where India is participating as an invited partner during Canada's presidency.

Earlier, Jaishankar attended the G7 Outreach Session on energy security and critical minerals. He emphasised that India is willing to work constructively with its global partners and highlighted the need to reduce dependence and enhance resilience in supply chains.

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Highlighting the Indian perspective, he said that India is open to working constructively with international partners and underlined that greater cooperation is the way forward.
Nowgam Blast: At least nine people were killed and 32 were injured after some confiscated explosives that were stored at Nowgam police station in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) went off on Friday. Addressing a press conference, J&K Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat said the blast was accidental and any other speculation into the cause of this incident is unnecessary.

According to the initial reports, the blast occurred when some policemen and authorities were extracting samples from a large cache of 360 kg of explosives explosives confiscated in the 'white-collar' terror module case in Haryana.

Nowgam blast case: Latest updates Those dead in the Nowgam blast case include three people from Forensic Science Laboratory, two from Revenue department including a Naib Tehsildar, two police photographers, one member of State Investigation Agency and a tailor. The others injured were collecting samples brought from Haryana when the bomb went off. The material was part of the explosives, including ammonium nitrate, recovered from Faridabad. The material was part of the 360 kg of explosives recovered from the rented residence of arrested accused Dr Muzammil Ganaie. They were kep in the open, Prashant Lokhande, Joint Secretary MHA said. Since there were multiple small blasts, they prevented immediate rescue operations by the bomb disposal squad. Also Read | Police arrest two hybrid terrorists in Kashmir's Sopore region; arms and ammunition recovered  details here The cause of the Nowgam blast case is being investigated. The building of the police station has been very severely damaged. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said any other speculation about this incident is unnecessary. During the press conference, DGP Nalin Prabhat said, During the investigation, an FIR number 162/2025 of PS Nowgam, a huge quantity of explosive substances, chemicals were also recovered from Faridabad on 9, 10 November. This recovery, like the rest of the recoveries which we have done, was transported and kept securely in the open area of Police Station, Nowgam.

As part of the prescribed procedure, the samples of the recovery had to be forwarded for further forensic and chemical examination. This process was going on for the past two days by the FSL team. Due to the unstable and sensitive nature of the recovery, the sampling process, handling was being done with extreme caution by the FSL team.

He said, However, unfortunately, during this course, last night around 11.20 pm, an accidental explosion has taken place. Any other speculation into the cause of this incident is unnecessary. In this unfortunate incident, nine people have lost their lives and 27 police personnel, two revenue officials and three civilians from the adjacent areas have received injuries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the under-construction bullet train station in Gujarat's Surat on Saturday to review the progress of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor (MAHSR).

The Prime Minister landed at the Surat airport on Saturday morning and reached the Antroli area, where a bullet train station is under construction. He interacted with officials and reviewed the work, news agency PTI reported.

PM Modi is on a day-long visit to Gujarat

He landed at the Surat airport in the morning. After reviewing the progress of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor in Surat, he reached Devmogra village in Sagbara taluka, nearly 23 km from Dediapada town in Narmada district.

Bullet train to cut MumbaiAhmedabad travel time to about 2 Hours MAHSR, one of India's most ambitious infrastructure projects, spans approximately 508 km, covering 352 km in Gujarat and Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and 156 km in Maharashtra.

The corridor will connect major cities, including Sabarmati, Ahmedabad, Anand, Vadodara, Bharuch, Surat, Bilimora, Vapi, Boisar, Virar, Thane, and Mumbai.

Also Read | India signs pact with Japan to design Bandra-Kurla bullet train station I Watch

Upon completion, the Bullet Train will reduce travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad to nearly two hours. The project is expected to boost business, tourism, and economic activity along the entire corridor, catalyzing regional development.

A businessman, Hardik Patel, told news agency IANS, ...With the bullet train, the connectivity from Ahmedabad to Mumbai will become easier. People in Surat will benefit as it will facilitate transportation for the diamond industry and textile markets.

Also Read | Inside Kim Jong Un's bulletproof train as North Korean leader arrives in Beijing

Another textile businessman, Kaushik Ramanuj says, "We feel that the bullet train will greatly benefit Gujarat, especially its diamond and textile industries... After the Prime Ministers visit, it seems that we will be able to fully utilize the bullet train project very soon,"

PM Modi's full Gujarat schedule today Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday offered prayers to Pandori Mata, a deity of the tribal community, at a temple in Devmogra village of Gujarat's tribal-dominated Narmada district on Saturday.

Later in the day, PM Modi will visit Dediapada town in the tribal-dominated Narmada district, where he will address a gathering to mark the birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda.

He will also inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for infrastructure and development projects costing more than 9,700 crore.

Before addressing the gathering, the prime minister will offer prayers at the temple of Pandori Mata, the clan deity of the tribal community, in Devmogra village of Sagbara taluka, 23 km from Dediapada.

Birsa Munda's 150th birth anniversary PM Modi's visit to Gujarat comes on the day that marks freedom fighter Dharti Aaba Bhagwan Birsa Munda's 150th birth anniversary.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi paid tribute to anti-colonialist tribal leader Birsa Munda and remembered him for his unparalleled contribution to the country's freedom movement.

He said that Munda's struggle and sacrifices against the injustice of foreign rule will continue to inspire every generation in the country.

On this sacred occasion of Tribal Pride Day, the entire nation is reverently remembering the unparalleled contribution of the great freedom fighter of the country, Lord Birsa Munda Ji, in protecting the pride of the motherland. PM Modi said.

"Their struggle and sacrifice against the injustice of foreign rule will continue to inspire every generation. Hundredfold salutations to the great freedom fighter of the country, Bhagwan Birsa Munda Ji, on his 150th birth anniversary," Prime Minister Modi wrote on 'X'.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X on Saturday to greet the people of Jharkhand on the state's 25th foundation day.

He recalled the legacy of tribal rights leader and freedom fighter Birsa Munda, noting that the history of the land was filled with inspiring tales of courage, struggle and dignity.

"Greetings to the people of Jharkhand, a glorious land enriched with vibrant tribal culture, on its foundation day," Modi said in an X post.

The Prime Minister also extended his good wishes for the continued progress and prosperity of all families in the state on the occasion.

Jharkhand was carved out of Bihar in 2000. The state's foundation day on November 15 also coincides with the birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda.

PM Modi pays tributes to Birsa Munda on 150th birth anniversary PM Modi also paid tributes to tribal rights leader and freedom fighter Birsa Munda on his 150th birth anniversary, which is celebrated as 'Janajatiya Gaurav Diwas' (Tribal Dignity Day) across the country.

Also Read | Gujarat Launches Statewide Yatra to Mark Birsa Mundas 150th Birth Anniversary

Born in 1875 in present-day Jharkhand, Munda challenged British rule and is credited with mobilising tribals against the empire. He died in British custody at the young age of 25.

"I offer tributes to great freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda on this 150th birth anniversary," Modi said in a post on X.

On the occasion of 'Janajatiya Gaurav Diwas', the entire nation reverently remembers the unparalleled contribution of the great freedom fighter of the country to protecting the honour of the motherland, the prime minister said.

"His struggle and sacrifice against the injustice of foreign rule will continue to inspire every generation," Modi said.

Munda led the Munda Rebellion against British rule. His struggle for tribal rights and self-rule made him a symbol of resistance and empowerment for indigenous communities.
India's Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2025, was brought into effect on Friday as the ministry of electronics and IT (Meity) notified the rules and set up a four-member board for data protection.

For startups, compliance with the Act becomes increasingly important, not just for the sake of running their businesses, but also for ensuring they're above board when venture capital investors, looking to fund them, conduct their due diligence.

Mint explains what the DPDP Act is and what its implications are for India's startup ecosystem.

What is the DPDP Act?

The DPDP Act is India's first data protection law, specifically designed to protect individuals' personal data and provide larger organizations with a framework for processing such data within the country. This applies to both online and offline data, which are then digitized.

The law makes companies or individuals processing data responsible for a host of duties, including the correct handling of data, ensuring its protection, ensuring that individuals providing their data know what they're providing their data for, erasing data upon the request of an individual or when consent expires, and setting up grievance redressal.

The government has also appointed a four-member Data Protection Board, which will act as a regulatory authority and be responsible for enforcing the data protection regulations.

According to a government official who requested anonymity, a select committee under Meity will now recommend names, following which appointments will be notified.

Which parts of the DPDP Act are relevant to startups?

Broadly, there are several types of violations of the DPDP Act that can impact startups. These include failing to make security safeguards to prevent data breaches and failing to report data breaches.

These are absolute high-key items that startups will have to keep in mind going forward as they build their businesses," said Supratim Chakraborty, partner at law firm Khaitan & Co.

Consent is the cornerstone of the regulations, which means that if a company wants to access an individual's data, consent must be free, specific, informed, unconditional and unambiguous", according to the Act.

In simpler terms, companies must explicitly inform users why they need their data, what they will use it for, how long they will retain it, when their consent expires, and when they will remove the data from the companies' systems if it is no longer needed.

As a result, startups can no longer include vague language in their terms and conditions or privacy policies regarding how an individual's data is processed or how long it will be retained.

For artificial intelligence startups, the Act means they have less access to troves of data, and must now be very specific about what they collect from their users, especially given that user consent is a large part of the DPDP Act.

Good data rules have been long overdue, especially as India emerges as a genuine hotspot for product-first, high-trust startups. The DPDP framework finally brings the kind of certainty Indian tech and AI companies need to build globally respected products," said upGrad co-founder Ronnie Screwvala in a written response to Mint.

If a startup violates consent regulations, it can be fined up to 50 crore, unless other penalties are specified. Fines for inadequate data security can reach as much as 250 crore.

There's been unnecessary hoarding of data, which startups will now have to re-evaluate, because now the law is very clear," said Raj Ramachandran, partner at JSA Advocates & Solicitors.

Will the law impact investments?

Investors and experts are both confident that, given the extensive discussion and frequent review of DPDP, the impact will be minimal.

Giving the industry 18 months to comply is a very mature move, especially since the rules came out in February," said Amarjeet Singh Makhija, partner and startups leader at PwC India. While companies were already working on it, they weren't going at it full-fledged, which will start happening now."

Others, like Pranav Pai of 3one4 Capital, say that their portfolio companies have already been taking steps to be compliant. We don't want any of our companies to be in the grey areas of any regulations. Everyone has been preparing for this for a long time," said Pai.

However, Chakraborty of Khaitan & Co. warned that there might be some initial teething issues as companies rush to become compliant. Larger players may prefer partnering with startups that have more mature data handling and governance. There's a possibility that at the beginning, startups might be impacted negatively unless they can showcase that they are well prepared," he said.
Chinas Ministry of Natural Resources confirmed the discovery of the Dadonggou deposit on Friday. This is the largest single gold find reported in the country since the founding of the Peoples Republic in 1949. Officials say the site contains an estimated 2.586 million tonnes of ore with an average grade of 0.56 grams per tonne, amounting to around 1,444 tonnes of gold.

At current prices, that volume of gold is worth more than 166bn. Gold has reached record levels this year, trading at more than 115,000 per kilogram.

The project was carried out by the state-run Liaoning Geological and Mining Group, which deployed nearly 1,000 technicians and workers and completed the exploration in just 15 months  an unusually short period for a deposit of this size.

The ministry has described the find as ultra-large but low-grade, and said it has already passed an initial economic feasibility assessment.

However, authorities have not disclosed the precise location of the site beyond confirming it is in eastern Liaoning province, prompting speculation about the strategic considerations behind the limited disclosure.

Related

A safe-haven asset in turbulent times

The discovery comes during a period of surging demand for gold. Prices have risen by more than 50% this year, fuelled by a weaker dollar, geopolitical tensions and strong buying by central banks  particularly in emerging economies looking to diversify their reserves.

China has accelerated its mineral exploration efforts in recent years. In 2024, officials reported the discovery of a deposit of more than 1,000 tonnes in Hunan province, and another of over 40 tonnes in Gansu in October. The country produced 377.24 tonnes of gold in 2024, a 0.56% increase on the previous year.

Domestic consumption reached 985.31 tonnes in 2024, with demand for bars and coins rising by more than 24% year-on-year. Analysts say the trend reflects growing interest among Chinas expanding middle class in safeguarding wealth amid global economic uncertainty  making gold an increasingly popular safe-haven asset across the country.
An Indian expatriate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has struck gold  quite literally  after being named the top winner in the Outstanding Workforce category at the Emirates Labour Market Awards - one of the countrys premier honour programmes.Anas Kadiyarakam, who began his career in the UAE 16 years ago, received a trophy, Dirhams 100,000 (approximately 2,414,500), a gold coin, an Apple Watch, a Fazaa Platinum Card and several other gifts.

Anas, originally from Kozhikode in Kerala, works as the Human Resource Manager at LLH Hospital. He won the award alongside co-winner Abdullah Albriki, Head of Cybersecurity at Emsteel, in the Management and Executives branch of the Skilled Workers subcategory.

Who presented the awards? The awards ceremony was held under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.

The honours were presented by Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes Affairs.

Also Read | Shah Rukh Khan honoured with Dubai tower named after him- how much it costs

How did Anas build his career in the UAE? Anas began his journey in Abu Dhabi in 2009 as an HR Executive at the LLH Day Care Centre. Over the years, he rose through the ranks to Senior HR Executive, Assistant Manager, Musaffah Region Manager, and later Regional HR Manager, overseeing hospitals and strategic international projects for Burjeel Holdings.

His significant contributions during the COVID-19 pandemicparticularly his leadership of HR operations at the Mafraq COVID-19 Hospitalearned him the Heroes of the UAE Medal and a Golden Visa.

Anas expressed gratitude to his family and the leadership of Burjeel Holdings for their unwavering support.

Also Read | Flying Emirates? You will not be allowed to use power banks from today

This award is for them as well. Their encouragement made every achievement possible, he said.

He added that the recognition motivates him to continue building healthier and more supportive workplaces where people feel valued and can grow, calling it his way of giving back to a country that has given him so much.

Milestone Calling the award a milestone in his 16-year journey, Anas told Gulf News:

It felt like the country was telling me, we have seen your growth. The UAEs private sector is the most dynamic place to learn, especially in healthcare. Every day brings a new challenge and a new opportunity to support the workforce.

Also Read | Emirates employee rewarded with Omega watch after 20 years | Viral video

He also extended special thanks to Dr Shamsheer Vayalil and the Burjeel management for the trust placed in him:
Mindvalley's Indian-origin CEO Vishen Lakhiani has alleged that he was stopped by the FBI at the Miami airport in the United States even though he holds an O-1 visa, which is usually vetted out to people of extraordinary talent.

Lakhiani, an Indian-Malaysian executive, was forced to share his WhatsApp number and social media profiles despite being the CEO of an American company.

I arrived in America and got stopped by the FBI at the airport even though I have an O-1 visa, which is a visa for people of extraordinary talent, the Mindvalley CEO said in a post on Instagram, along with which he attached a video.

Indian-origin CEO alleges xenophobia in US Vishen Lakhiani accused US politicians of spreading xenophobia and blaming immigrants, saying that he now dreaded visiting the country.

I really can't wait for the next election because what's happening in America right now is insane. The fearmongering, the xenophobia, the blaming of immigrants by politicians with no ideas on how to truly make a country great, he said.

Wanted to share my experience here and to share what it's like to see the country I love becoming so closed and narrow-minded that I now dread visiting, Lakhiani added.

He said that he was the CEO of an American company with 230 employees globally and has been paying American taxes for the past 22 years.

How did the internet react? The Indian-origin CEO's post went viral on social media, igniting a debate about the policies, airport screenings, and the broader political scenario in the US right now.

Many users could relate with Lakhiani's experience, with immigrants and non-citizens coming forward to share their experiences.

Also Read | ICE gets largest share of 50,000 federal worker hires under Trump

You are right Vishen...Xenophobic. This is not good. This is not the USA that knew here so many years ago, one user said.

No one deserves to be profiled, questioned, or stopped simply for who they are. Moments like this remind us how far we still have to go as a country. We must choose to see one another with humanity, to celebrate our differences, honor our similarities, and stand together for dignity and respect. Your voice and your work continue to inspire so many of us. Sending you strength today. Sadly, what is happening here is horrific Not the same country my family and I immigrated to, another American citizen, who is an immigrant, commented.
As United States President Donald Trump faces scrutiny over his own ties with Jeffrey Epstein, the Justice Department said on Friday, November 14, that it will investigate the paedophile financier's links to Bill Clinton and JPMorgan after the President's request. This came after Donald Trump said he would ask Attorney General Pam Bondi and the FBI to look into Epstein's involvement and relationship with Clinton and others.

Apart from Bill Clinton, the Justice Department has also been asked to investigate JP Morgan and Chase, former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers and LinkedIn founder Reid Hoffman.

In a post on social media, Donald Trump said, Epstein was a Democrat, and he is the Democrat's problem, not the Republican's problem! They all know about him, don't waste your time with Trump. I have a Country to run!

Also Read | Epstein survivors demand DOJ unseal remaining files amid Trump mentions

The decision comes just two days after a congressional panel released thousands of documents spotlighting fresh questions about Trumps own links to Epstein, marking yet another instance of the former president pressing federal agencies to target his perceived political foes.

This is another Russia, Russia, Russia Scam, with all arrows pointing to the Democrats, the Republican president wrote, referring to special counsel Robert Muellers investigation of alleged Russian interference in Trumps 2016 election victory over Bill Clintons wife, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

Sharing an update on Donald Trump's request, Pam Bondi said Jay Clayton, the top federal prosecutor in Manhattan, will lead the investigation into Bill Clinton's links with Jeffrey Epstein.

There has been a clamour call for the Trump administration to release the Epstein files. Many Trump voters believe Bondi and other Trump officials have covered up Epsteins ties to powerful figures and obscured details surrounding his death by suicide in a Manhattan jail in 2019.
Republican lawmaker Marjorie Taylor Greene on Saturday slammed US President Donald Trump and accused him of fueling and egging on threats against her.

Trump had on Friday withdrawn his endorsement of Republican lawmaker, who had been for long a fierce defender of him.

Also Read | Melania's shoutout to husband Trump as Prez signs executive order on foster care

In a a post on X, Marjorie Taylor Greene said that she was now being contacted by private security firms with warnings for her safety as a hot bed of threats against her were being fueled and egged on by the most powerful man in the world.

The man I supported and helped get elected. Aggressive rhetoric attacking me has historically led to death threats and multiple convictions of men who were radicalized by the same type rhetoric being directed at me right now. This time by the President of the United States.

As a woman I take threats from men seriously, added the Republican.

Greene, a member of the House of Representatives, said that she now has a small understanding of the fear and pressure the women, who are victims of Jeffrey Epstein and his cabal, must feel.

As a Republican, who overwhelmingly votes for President Trumps bills and agenda, his aggression against me which also fuels the venomous nature of his radical internet trolls (many of whom are paid), this is completely shocking to everyone. My phone is blowing up with constant amazing support. Im so thankful!, she added.

Also Read | Trump intensifies war with Marjorie Taylor Greene in back-to-back posts

The lawmaker demanded that the Political Industrial Complex and the toxic violent nature of American politics must end. Our country is worth saving and it can only be done if we pull together and save ourselves.

A few days ago, the Georgia Republican had accused Trump of trying to intimidate other Republicans ahead of a vote next week on releasing the Epstein files.

Greene was one of only four House Republicans who joined Democrats in signing a petition to force a vote on releasing the full Department of Justice files related to Epstein.

In recent weeks she has also called Trump's rollout of trade tariffs "bumpy" and criticised his foreign policy focus, saying she wants him to prioritise domestic issues.
US President Donald Trump slammed London Mayor Sadiq Khan and labelled him a disaster. He further claimed that London had become so dangerous that people are being stabbed in the ass.

In an interview with GB News, the U.S. president told host Bev Turner that his mother had once loved the city, but he argued that under the Labour mayor, things had changed.

Trump claimed there were now areas in London where even the police avoid going. Despite being offered no challenge on America's gun violence record, Trump criticised Khan, calling him a terrible, terrible mayor.

The 55-year-old Labour politician of Pakistani heritage made history in May last year by becoming the first to be elected for a third consecutive term as Mayor of London.

This comes amid his ongoing feud with Trump, who has frequently targeted Khan, calling him the worst mayor in the world. In return, Khan has accused Trump of being racist, sexist, misogynistic, and Islamophobic.

Khan, who has served as Londons mayor since 2016, has clashed with Trump ever since the president's 2015 campaign promise to ban Muslims from entering the U.S. In July, Trump remarked that Khan had done a terrible job and described him as a nasty person.

Who is Sadiq Khan? Sadiq Aman Khan is a British politician who has served as Mayor of London since May 2016, making him the first Muslim mayor of a major Western capital city.

A member of the Labour Party, he was re-elected in 2021 and again in May 2024, defeating the Conservative candidate, Susan Hall, with 43.8% of the vote in the first round.

Born in Tooting, south London, to a working-class Pakistani immigrant family, Khan is the fifth of eight children. His father was a bus driver and his mother a seamstress. He studied law at the University of North London and qualified as a human-rights solicitor, specialising in police misconduct cases.

From 1994 to 2006, he ran a successful legal practice and chaired the human-rights organisation Liberty (20002004).

Why is Khan under criticism in London? Khan's handling of crime, particularly violent crime, has been a focal point of criticism, especially from the Conservative opposition, where he is accused of allowing crime to rise significantly since 2016.

ULEZ expansion faced strong opposition and legal challenges, while his handling of crime, particularly knife crime, has drawn criticism despite falling homicide rates in recent years.

On the brighter side, as a mayor, Khan has focused on affordable housing (promising 40,000 council homes by 2030), freezing Transport for London fares (20162024), expanding the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) city-wide in 2023 to reduce air pollution, and introducing the Hopper bus fare and Night Tube extensions.
US President Donald Trump doubled down his attack on Republican and MAGA ally, Georgia congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, branding her as a 'fake' politician in consecutive social media posts, claiming she betrayed the grand old party. This comes a day after the POTUS publicly dumped her, withdrawing his support for the Republican.

Marjorie Traitor Green is a disgrace to our GREAT REPUBLICAN PARTY! Trump posted shortly after a lengthy post where he labelled Greene as fake and rotten.

Lightweight Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Brown (Green grass turns Brown when it begins to ROT!), betrayed the entire Republican Party when she turned Left, performed poorly on the pathetic View, and became the RINO that we all know she always was, stated Trump.

Who is Marjorie Taylor Greene? Greene, once one of Trumps most loyal defenders, became a prominent MAGA figure with the POTUS's backing. However, their relationship soured after the release of the Epstein files  a batch of unreleased documents on American financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epsteins network.

What happened between Trump and Greene? Accusing the Georgia Republican of going Far Left  Donald Trump, in a social media post on Friday, claimed that all he had witnessed from Greene in recent months is COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN!

I can't take a ranting Lunatic's call every day, he had said.

In a response on X, Greene wrote Friday that Trump had attacked her and even lied" about her. She added a screenshot of a text she said she had sent the president earlier in the day about releasing the Jeffrey Epstein files, which she said "is what sent him over the edge."

Greene called it "astonishing really how hard he's fighting to stop the Epstein files from coming out that he actually goes to this level," referencing the upcoming US House vote over releasing the Epstein files.

House vote on Epstein files release Speaker Mike Johnson said that the House will hold a vote next week on a bill forcing the Department of Justice to release the full, unclassified Jeffrey Epstein filesdespite his own long-standing opposition to the discharge petition that triggered the vote.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Saturday identified Keith Michael Lisa as suspect in connection with the attack on the acting US Attorney Alina Habbas office in Newark before he fled the spot, and issued a arrest warrant against him.

The suspect has been identified as Keith Michael Lisa, and has ties to Mahwah and New York City, said the FBI.

The Federal bureau also announced the reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Keith Michael Lisa.

Keith Michael Lisa is wanted for allegedly entering the Peter W. Rodino Federal Building in Newark, New Jersey, on November 12, 2025, while in possession of a bat. After being denied entry, he discarded the bat and returned. Once inside the building, he proceeded to the US Attorney's Office where he damaged government property, said the FBI in a statement.

Giving description about the suspect, FBI said that Lisa is 6 feet, 3 inches tall, has brown and gray hair and brown eyes, adding he is considered dangerous.

The authorities have asked to provide information through call at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip to tips.fbi.gov.

View full Image Suspect Keith Michael Lisa.

On Friday, in a post on X, Attorney General Pam Bondi said that last night, an individual attempted to confront one of their US Attorneys her dear friend Alina Habba and destroyed property in her office, and then fled the scene.

Thankfully, Alina is ok, she added.

Bondi stated that any violence or threats of violence against any federal officer will not be tolerated. This is unfortunately becoming a trend as radicals continue to attack law enforcement agents around the country.

Quote tweeting Bondi's post, Habba said, "I will not be intimidated by radical lunatics for doing my job.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat, said he was grateful that Habba was not harmed.

It is absolutely unacceptable to make threats against federal officials, he added. Political violence has no place in our nation.

Trump formally nominated Habba as New Jerseys permanent US attorney on July 1, but the states two Democratic US senators, Cory Booker and Andy Kim opposed it, stalling the confirmation process.
Popular YouTuber Jack Doherty, 22, was arrested in Miami on charges of drug possession and resisting arrest.

Doherty, who has 15 million followers on YouTube, 10 million on TikTok and 3 million on Instagram, often posts videos of pulling pranks and stunts.

Last year in October, he came to the limelight after he crashed his $200,000 McLaren car while driving it in a livestream.

According to NBC News, Doherty has been charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana and resisting an officer without violence.

Prior to his arrest, Doherty had been live-streaming and sharing content from a yacht in Miami, reported TMZ.

News SS reported that the YouTuber's bond has been set at $3,500, as he navigates the legal implications of these serious charges.

Also Read | YouTuber Reveals The DARK Truths Behind Canadas Migration Boom

The Youtuber often flaunts his wealth on social media platforms.

In June 2024, Davie Police responded to a swatting call at Doherty's Southwest Ranches home.

Body camera footage captured officers arriving at the front of the home and encountering Doherty's head of security inside the gate.

Doherty's most popular video, titled I flipped all of these!, has got over 26 million views.

In an interview Disrupt Magazine six years ago, Doherty had said that everyone thought he would become a professional athlete because he was good at every single sport there is. Instead, he ended up posting YouTube videos.

Also Read | YouTube will automatically upscale your videos to 4K resolution using AI

"Once I saw that they started doing good, I decided to go full time with that and really wanted to make a change and inspire other kids to do what they love, he told the magazine.
US President Donald Trump on Friday (local time) asserted that he would take legal action against the BBC over a misleading edit of his 6 January 2021 speech that sparked resignations and apologies from the British broadcaster.

"We'll sue them for anywhere between $1 billion and $5 billion, probably sometime next week," Trump told reporters on board Air Force One while on his way to Florida.

Trump also added that he had not yet spoken to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer about the BBC issue, but added that he would call Starmer over the weekend.

Earlier, Trump had threatened to sue the British broadcaster for a whopping $1 billion.

Subsequently, the BBC acknowledged an error on its part and apologized to Trump, but maintained that it had not defamed the US President and rejected the basis for the lawsuit threat.

"While the BBC sincerely regrets the manner in which the video clip was edited, we strongly disagree there is a basis for a defamation claim," the British broadcaster said in a statement.

The BBC also said that chair Samir Shah had shot a personal letter to the White House making clear that he and the corporation were sorry for the edit.

Shah's letter, sent on Thursday, came after the BBC chair apologized to a British parliamentary oversight committee, calling the misleading edit an error of judgement.

The BBC's apology to Trump was also hailed by British culture minister Lisa Nandy, who told Times Radio, They've rightly accepted that they didn't meet the highest standards and that's the basis on which the chairman of the board has offered this apology to the President of the United States.

How did the misleading edit come to light? The issue came to light after The Daily Telegraph published a memo written by former BBC adviser Michael Prescott, which alleged that a documentary aired on the Panorama news programme edited two separate parts of Trumps speech together, creating the impression that he was directly inciting supporters to storm the US Capitol during the 6 January 2021 riots.

The report also highlighted shortcomings in the BBC's coverage of the IsraelHamas conflict, as well as transgender issues.

As the news came to light and ignited a scandal, BBC's director general Tim Davie and head of news Deborah Turness both resigned.

Threat of $1 billion lawsuit After the publication of the report, the US President's lawyer sent a letter to the British broadcaster demanding an apology for the harm the documentary had caused to Trump's image.
South Africa's intelligence services are investigating who was behind a chartered plane that landed in Johannesburg with more than 150 Palestinians from war-ravaged Gaza who did not have proper travel documents and were held onboard on the tarmac for around 12 hours as a result, the country's president said Friday.

The plane landed Thursday morning at O R Tambo International Airport, but passengers were not allowed to disembark until late that night after immigration interviews with the Palestinians found they could not say where or how long they were staying in South Africa, South Africa's border agency said, as reported by AP.

Also Read | Israeli settlers burn mosque as West Bank violence escalates

The report noted that the Palestinians lacked the exit stamps or slips typically issued by Israeli authorities when leaving Gaza.

South African authorities initial refusal to let the passengers disembark drew sharp criticism from NGOs, who said the 153 Palestiniansincluding families with children and a woman nine months pregnantwere confined to a plane under dire conditions, with extreme heat and no food or water.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said there was an investigation to uncover how the Palestinians came to South Africa via a stopover in Nairobi, Kenya.

These are people from Gaza who somehow mysteriously were put on a plane that passed by Nairobi and came here, Ramaphosa said.

What did the Palestinian Embassy in South Africa say? The Palestinian Embassy in South Africa said in a statement the flight was arranged by an unregistered and misleading organisation that exploited the tragic humanitarian conditions of our people in Gaza, deceived families, collected money from them, and facilitated their travel in an irregular and irresponsible manner. This entity later attempted to disown any responsibility once complications arose.

It didn't name who chartered the flight, but an Israeli military official, speaking anonymously to discuss confidential information, said an organization called Al-Majd arranged the transport of about 150 Palestinians from Gaza to South Africa.

The official said that Israel escorted buses organized by Al-Majd that brought Palestinians from a meeting point in the Gaza Strip to the Kerem Shalom crossing. Then buses from Al-Majd picked the Palestinians up and brought them to Ramon airport in Israel, where they were flown out of the country.

South African authorities say Palestinians travelled without naming South African authorities said 23 of the Palestinians had travelled onwards to other countries, without naming those countries, but 130 remained and were allowed in after intervention from South Africa's Ministry of Home Affairs and an offer by an NGO called Gift of the Givers to accommodate them.

Even though they do not have the necessary documents and papers, these are people from a strife-torn, a war-torn country, and out of compassion, out of empathy, we must receive them and be able to deal with the situation that they are facing, Ramaphosa said.

The secretive nature of the flight raised fears among rights groups that it marked an attempt by the Israeli government to push Palestinians from Gaza.

Israel raises concerns Israels Foreign Ministry directed questions to the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), the body responsible for implementing civilian policies in the Palestinian territories.

According to COGAT, the Palestinians on the charter plane departed Gaza after receiving approval from a third country to accept them, as part of an Israeli policy permitting Gaza residents to leave. The third country was not named.

Israel-Gaza war Around 40,000 people have left Gaza since the start of the war under the policy.

Israel's government had embraced a pledge by US President Donald Trump to empty Gaza permanently of its more than 2 million Palestinians  a plan rights groups said would amount to ethnic cleansing. At the time, Trump said they would not be allowed to return.

View full Image Temporary tents stretch along the beachfront in Deir al-Balah, in the central Gaza Strip, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana) ( AP )

Trump has since backed away from this plan and brokered a ceasefire between Israel and the militant group Hamas that allows Palestinians to remain in Gaza.

South African leader Ramaphosa said that it appeared the Palestinians who arrived in Johannesburg were being flushed out of Gaza, without elaborating. The comment followed allegations by two South African NGO representatives who claimed that Al-Majd was affiliated with Israel and working to remove Palestinians from Gaza.

They offered no evidence for the claims, and COGAT didn't respond to a request for comment on those allegations.

Gift of the Givers founder Imtiaz Sooliman, one of those to allege involvement by what he called "Israel's front organisations," said this was the second plane to arrive in South Africa in mysterious circumstances after one that landed with more than 170 Palestinians onboard on Oct 28. The arrival of that flight was not announced by the authorities, AP reported.

Sooliman said the passengers on the latest plane did not initially know where they were going and were given no food for the two days it took to travel to Johannesburg.

They were given nothing on the plane itself and this must be challenged and investigated, Sooliman said.

South Africa has long been a supporter of the Palestinian cause and a critic of Israel and has led the international pro-Palestinian movement by accusing Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza in a highly contentious case at the United Nations' top court.

Israel denies committing genocide and has denounced South Africa as the "legal arm" of Hamas.

Here's what Palestinians say The people who ended up in South Africa underlined the desperation of Palestinians following a two-year war that has killed more than 69,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's Health Ministry, and reduced the territory to rubble, AP reported.

The ministry's death toll does not distinguish between militants and civilians, but it says more than half of those killed were women and children. A fragile ceasefire is in place.

Also Read | Who is Amjad Shawa? New leader of board that will rule Gaza Strip

An organisation called Al-Majd Europe has previously been linked to facilitating travel for Palestinians out of Gaza. It describes itself on its website as a humanitarian organization founded in 2010 in Germany and based in Jerusalem that provides aid and rescue efforts to Muslim communities in conflict zones.

The website does not list office phone numbers or its exact address. It states that Al-Majd Europe works with a variety of organizations including 15 international agencies, but no organisations are listed and a will be announced soon message was displayed in that section on Friday.

Another message that appeared Friday on the website said people were impersonating it to request money or cryptocurrency under the pretext of facilitating travel or humanitarian aid. Al-Majd Europe didn't immediately respond to a request for comment sent to an email address given on its site.
Chinese aluminium smelter Chuangxin Industries Holdings aims to raise as much as HK$5.5 billion (US$707 million) in an initial public offering (IPO) that has already drawn commitments from 18 domestic and international investors, highlighting the strong appetite in Hong Kong's buoyant fundraising market.

Chuangxin planned to offer 500 million shares at HK$10.18 to HK$10.99 each, with 90 per cent allocated to institutional investors and the remainder to retail investors, according to its Hong Kong stock exchange filing on Friday. The stock is expected to start trading on November 24.

Switzerland-based commodity giant Glencore, Chinese investment manager Hillhouse Group, aluminium maker China Hongqiao Group, Singapore commodity trading firm Mercuria Energy Group, US asset manager Millennium Management and US quant trading firm Jane Street were among the cornerstone investors that agreed to commit around US$351 million worth of stock based on the top range of the offer price.

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

The IPO comes amid a rebound in Hong Kong's equities. Global investors, including US funds with long-only strategies, had rediscovered the allure of Chinese firms, some investment bankers previously said.

Chuangxin plans to use half of the listing proceeds to expand overseas production capacity. Photo: Getty alt=Chuangxin plans to use half of the listing proceeds to expand overseas production capacity. Photo: Getty>

Total funds from new share sales soared 220 per cent in the first nine months of the year, with 66 companies raising US$23.27 billion on the Hong Kong stock exchange's main board, according to data from the London Stock Exchange Group. That put the bourse at the top of the global IPO rankings for the first time since 2019.

More than 300 companies were in the city's listing pipeline as international investors' appetite returned and many Chinese firms used Hong Kong as a launch pad for their global expansion plans, Bonnie Chan Yiting, CEO of bourse operator Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing, said last month.

Chuangxin, based in China's Inner Mongolia, planned to use half of the proceeds for expanding overseas production capacity, including a project in Saudi Arabia, according to the filing. The remainder would go towards constructing green energy projects, working capital and general corporate purposes.
NEW DELHI : Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Bhutan this weekhis fourth since 2014 and one timed to honour the 70th birthday of the countrys fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuckunderscored the sincerity of Indias Neighbourhood First policy, particularly at a moment when its eastern flank remains unsettled.

As India grapples with an increasingly hostile neighbourhood, the Himalayan kingdom stands out as a textbook model of good neighbourlinessand as a prime example of how a smaller nation can navigate relations with a larger one through trust and transparency.

The two nations have long shared warm and friendly ties that span religion and culturethrough the shared bond of Buddhismto currency, with Bhutans ngultrum pegged to the Indian rupee; to security, where an Indian Military Training Team led by a major general trains the Royal Bhutanese Army and the Royal Bodyguard; and to energy, with hydropower generation that meets Bhutans needs and sends the surplus to India.

Credit goes to leaders on both sides who have remoulded ties to suit the times with delicacy and sagacity. A case in point: India no longer guides" Bhutan on foreign policy and defence matters. That word, part of the 1949 peace and friendship agreement, was replaced in the amended 2007 text with mutual respect for each others independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity."

India and Bhutan have also agreed not to let their territories be used against each other. Adding a new dimension to the partnership, New Delhi announced plans in September to link Bhutan to the Indian states of Assam and West Bengal by rail at a cost of 4,033 crore.

Modis visit was thus a well-judged gesture, celebrating the architect of several key chapters in India-Bhutan ties, including the currency peg and hydropower cooperation.

For the uninitiated, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, known as K4, as the fourth king is often referred to, is the father of Bhutans present monarch, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.

He worked with many Indian prime ministers, starting with Indira Gandhi and continuing through Manmohan Singh. In 2006, he abdicated in favour of his son after having led Bhutan for more than three decades.

Although retired, he is deeply revered by the Bhutanese people. More importantly, his son still turns to him for counsel.

With Indias ties with Bangladesh fraying and relations with Myanmar in limbo due to the ongoing civil war, New Delhis engagement with two neighbours on its eastern flank is clearly out of kilter. All the more reason, then, to ensure that ties with Bhutan remain on their best footing.

From model ties to resetting ties.

External affairs minister S. Jaishankar visited Canada this week, coinciding with a trip to India by Maninder Sidhu, Canadas minister of export promotion, international trade, and economic development.

These back-to-back visits follow Canadian foreign minister Anita Anands trip to New Delhi in October, along with other recent interactions. The two sides have also reappointed their respective high commissioners.

The reset comes after a decision to restore ties taken when Modi met his new Canadian counterpart, Mark Carney, in Kananaskis in June.

US President Donald Trumps tariffs and Mark Carneys election have spurred the rapprochement process, following a sharp deterioration in ties in 2023 when Canada accused India of involvement in the killing of Canadian national Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil.

Security of Canadians is an issue on the table, but equally important is strengthening trade and economic ties. Canadian pension funds are looking at newer opportunities besides China and the US (after Trump imposed 25% tariffs on imports from Canada); India is a natural choice.

Besides, there are opportunities in energy with Canadian firms looking to diversify export markets, with Trump slapping an extra 10% levy on energy imports. Currently, most of Canadas oil is exported to the US.

India, too, has felt the impact of Trumps tariffs, facing a hefty 50% levy. Shared adversity, it seems, can provide the momentum for nations to rethink and reset their ties.

Onto another settlement.

The US government shutdown, caused by a budgetary standoff between Democrats and Republicans, finally ended this week. Lasting 43 days, it was the longest in history.

The question of who won"Republicans or Democratsremains unclear. Trump did not concede much. If anything, he did acknowledge that last weeks Republican losses in mayoral and gubernatorial elections in New York, New Jersey, and Virginia were partly due to the shutdown.

As President, Trump was widely seen as doing little to break the deadlock, which stalled the food assistance programme that supports some 42 million Americans. This episode is likely to reinforce perceptions of him as a politician unconcerned with the poor and vulnerable.

At the same time, the prolonged shutdown may not help Democrats either, especially if the public perceives them as responsible for the impasse.

In any case, the eventual agreement offers a glimmer of hope that even entrenched partisan differences can sometimes push Democrats and Republicans to work together.

The mercurial president, however, seems to be rethinking some of his moves vis-a-vis India.

In an interview, he reportedly said the US needs to bring in skilled labour; it cant simply repurpose long-term unemployed Americans for complex roles in manufacturing and defence without extensive training. Could this signal a rethink on H-1B visas and immigration?

What prompted this apparent change of heart?

Remember, this is the same Trump who, in September, issued the Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers", touted as the first step towards a cleanup of the flawed H-1B programme. New applications, submitted after 21 September, had to be accompanied by an additional $100,000 payment as a condition of eligibility.

Given that most of the H-1B visas are snapped up by Indian IT professionals, the move was widely seen as targeting Indians, shattering the hopes of many young Indian professionals.

He also indicated his administration could soon reduce the 50% tariffs on India.

But Trump is prone to flip-flops, so it would be prudent to wait and see how this develops. After all, these statements dont yet constitute policy. The true litmus test will be whether Trump revokes his proclamationssomething that seems unlikely. More likely, he may eat his words if his MAGA base protests.

Elizabeth Roche is an associate professor at O.P. Jindal Global University, Sonipat, Haryana.
A new deployment of federal agents arrived in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Saturday as part of President Donald Trumps expanding immigration enforcement campaign, marking the latest push to carry out large-scale arrests in Democratic-led cities.

We are surging DHS law enforcement to Charlotte to ensure Americans are safe and public safety threats are removed, Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement.

She didnt provide any details of the deployment, including how many officers were there or what their duties would be.

The arrival in Charlotte marks the latest expansion of a campaign that has already swept through some of the nations largest left-leaning strongholds. Since the summer, Trump has sent federal agents into Washington, DC, Chicago, Los Angeles and Portland, arguing that local leaders have failed to control crime and immigration.

The city drew federal attention in August after a Ukrainian refugee was fatally stabbed aboard a light-rail train. The suspect in the killing is a US citizen, but Trump has repeatedly cited the incident as evidence of what he calls a breakdown of public safety in the city.

Five-term Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, Mecklenburg County Board Chair Mark Jerrell and Stephanie Sneed, the chair of the countys board of education issued a statement Saturday saying the operations are causing unnecessary fear and uncertainty in our community but urged that reactions to the operations be peaceful.

The Charlotte Observer reported that agents smashed the window of a pickup truck, grabbed the drivers keys and demanded to know if he was an illegal immigrant. The driver, Willy Aceituno, told the newspaper he was born in Honduras but had been a US citizen for six years. The paper also reported that agents had stopped seven men at random and demanded to know their immigration status.

Enforcement actions are expected to ramp up in New Orleans in the coming weeks as well, according to reports from CBS News and the New York Times.

Local leaders in the targeted cities have pushed back, disputing the need for federal intervention and criticizing what they describe as heavy-handed tactics by federal units, which have faced repeated allegations of excessive force and warrantless arrests. Charlotte officials say violent crime in the city has dropped about 20% from last year, including a 24% decline in homicides and a 19% drop in aggravated assaults, according to police data.

The deployment to Charlotte follows a campaign in Chicago that led to increasingly violent confrontations between heavily armed and helmeted Border Patrol agents and local residents protesting the effort.

Greg Bovino, the Border Patrol sector chief previously stationed in Southern California, has defended his agents actions and said such operations will continue despite public outcry and multiple lawsuits.

In an interview with Fox News on Thursday, Bovino said he and other Border Patrol agents were in West Virginia training for future operations and could be sent back to Chicago or deployed to other cities, including Charlotte.

With assistance from Maria Paula Mijares Torres.

2025 Bloomberg L.P.
Dear reader,

Bihars elections concluded on Friday, with the states 74.5 million eligible voters giving a clear mandate to the Nitish Kumar-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) coalition. The NDA was leading on more than 200 of the 243 assembly seats in the states by the time this newsletter was written.

Bihars next NDA-led government will step in with big promises but very little fiscal room to deliver them. The states revenues, about 2.4-2.6 trillion, are already stretched, with nearly 60% locked into salaries, pensions, and interest. That leaves little room for ambitious commitments, such as creating 10 million jobs or building seven new expressways. Even recent boosts from the Finance Commission barely dent the gap.

This mismatch between ambition and money is stark. Building expressways, upgrading airports, or expanding agriculture programmes will require massive central support, clever financing, and far stronger administrative capacity than Bihar has shown in recent years. Experts warn that without a disciplined plan and private-sector participation, many promised jobs could end up temporary or low-paying.

Can the NDAs lofty election promises withstand Bihars stark fiscal reality? Rhik Kundu and Subhash Narayan tackle that question in this report.

On to, best of Mints journalism from this week.

Can startups make Indians trust health supplements? Indias health supplement boom, fuelled by pandemic-era wellness trends, influencers, and rising disposable incomes, is colliding with a deep trust deficit. While some consumers swear by products from startups like The Good Bug, others report mixed or adverse results. Lax Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulations allow quick, marketing-led launches without clinical proof, raising safety and efficacy concerns. Now, leading brands such as Kapiva, The Good Bug, and Wellbeing Nutrition are turning to clinical trials, doctor partnerships, and transparency platforms to rebuild credibility. For Indias $8-billion nutraceutical market, sciencenot hypemay be the ultimate differentiator.

Hyundais India reinvention Hyundai is gearing up for its biggest identity shift yetfrom Korean challenger to India-grown brand. As local rivals Tata and Mahindra close in, the companys India strategy is being rewritten under its first Indian CEO, Tarun Garg. But can Hyundai protect its hard-won No. 2 position with a bold 26-car rollout and a 45,000 crore investment push? And does growth require shiny new nameplatesor smart reinventions of icons like the Creta and Venue? As Garg takes charge, the mission is to boost market share, sharpen profitability, ramp up exports, and prove Hyundais future in India is as rooted as any homegrown player.

IndiGo may finally be nearing smoother skiesPratt & Whitney has assured the airline it will replace faulty engines on 40 grounded aircraft by June 2026. But will this timeline hold amid global supply bottlenecks? And what could this mean for fares, profitability, and that packed Mumbai-Delhi route everyone flies? If IndiGo gets these planes back in the air, analysts say the revenue boost will far outweigh compensation from the engine maker, helping the carrier cut costly leases and ramp up capacity just as new airports open.

ABS for all two-wheelers Indias top two-wheeler giantsBajaj, Hero, TVSare asking the government for a phased rollout of the upcoming ABS mandate. And honestly, who can blame them? With costs expected to rise by 3,000-6,000 and suppliers already stretched thin, can the industry realistically upgrade 19 million vehicles in one shot? Only 16% of bikes today even have ABS! With heavy import dependence and limited domestic capacity, brands argue a phased plan could actually make India saferwithout breaking wallets or supply chains.

Tax-free livingbut at what cost? What makes Dubai so irresistible for Indian professionals? Is it the glittering skylineor the simple math of keeping every dirham you earn? For Sushmeet Singh, who moved in 2008 just for two years, Dubais tax-free income quietly reshaped his entire life plan. Sure, lifestyle, schooling and healthcare cost more, but Singh insists the world-class safety, infrastructure, and everyday convenience justify the premium. Yet does zero income tax balance out high rents, insurance bills and pricey leisure? For many like Singh, the answer is yes. With business-friendly rules, a thriving expat ecosystem and the Golden Visa advantage, Dubai becomes home.

Ola founders repeated share pledges raise fresh red flags Bhavish Aggarwal has again pledged a slice of his Ola Electric stakenow over 10% of his 30% holdingto secure a loan for an undisclosed group company, marking his third pledge since the August 2024 IPO. What worries investors is that the money is being invested in his private AI venture, Krutrim, rather than Ola Electric. With the stock down 41% since listing, collateral requirements have risen, forcing Aggarwal to top up funds. Meanwhile, Ola Electric faces declining sales, revised revenue guidance, upcoming debt repayments, and pressure to raise new capital, deepening concerns about promoter risk and the companys financial stability.

Tata Motors long-awaited split finally unlocks value More than 25 years after Ratan Tata first floated the idea, Tata Motors has finally split into two independent companies, its trucks-and-buses business and its passenger vehicles arm, which includes Jaguar Land Rover. The commercial vehicle entity debuted strongly, closing 27% above its discovered price, while the passenger vehicles firm dipped slightly. Together, the two new companies are worth more than the pre-demerger Tata Motors, reflecting a 12.5% value unlock. Chairperson N. Chandrasekaran said the split gives each business the freedom to pursue distinct ambitions, stronger financial metrics, and future plans, from scaling premium cars to integrating the Iveco acquisition and navigating the challenging commercial vehicle cycle.

Cognizant tests mouse-and-keyboard tracking, raising employee concerns Cognizant is experimenting with micro-productivity tracking, rolling out a training module that familiarizes executives with tools like ProHance that monitor productivity through mouse and keyboard activity. Employees are marked as idle after five minutes of inactivity and away after 15 minutesmetrics that some fear signal a shift toward tighter surveillance. Cognizant states that the tracking wont be used for performance evaluations and is limited to select client projects, but several employees told Mint that the course was mandatory and required clicking I agree. Analysts say the move reflects rising client demand for measurable productivity, AI-driven process redesign, and margin pressure. While such tools are becoming industry standard, workers worry about privacy and creeping micromanagement.

India cements its lead in global migration, but student routes shrink India remained the top source of migrants to OECD nations in 2023, with over 600,000 people moving to countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, far ahead of China. Citizenship gains hit a record, too, led by Australia and Canada. Healthcare continues to be a major driver: one in six Indian migrants in 2024 was a health worker, and OECD nations now employ nearly 100,000 Indian-born doctors and over 120,000 nurses. However, student migration, a traditional pathway to permanent residence, is slipping away rapidly as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia tighten visa rules. Meanwhile, asylum requests from Indians have surged nearly threefold since 2019, driven largely by economic motivations. The big picture: Indian mobility is high, but its pathways are rapidly changing.
Dwight H. Egan: Thank you everyone for joining us today and for your continued support of Co-Diagnostics. As we head into the final stretch of the year, it is shaping up to be one of the most active and important times for our business. Over the past forty-five days alone, we've shared several important updates, which are all part of our plan to position Co-Diagnostics for its next phase of growth. Each of these steps brings us closer to our goal, building a stronger, more resilient Co-Diagnostics operationally, financially, and strategically. Importantly, these developments are the effect of cumulative growth and every initiative that we are currently working on connects to a broader strategy designed to create lasting value for shareholders.

We refer you to the company's earnings release issued shortly before this call which contains reconciliations to the non-GAAP financial measures presented to their most comparable GAAP results. At this time, I would like to turn the call over to Co-Diagnostics' Chief Executive Officer, Dwight H. Egan. Dwight?

Actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or implied in any statement. Important factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those in these forward-looking statements are detailed in Co-Diagnostics' filings with the SEC. Co-Diagnostics assumes no obligation and expressly disclaims any duty to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after this call or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. In addition, the company may discuss certain non-GAAP financial measures during today's call. These non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered a replacement for and should be read together with GAAP results.

Dwight H. Egan, Chief Executive Officer, and Brian L. Brown, Chief Financial Officer. Earlier today, Co-Diagnostics released financial results from the third quarter ended 09/30/2025. A copy of the press release is available on the company's website. We will begin with management's prepared remarks and then open the call to analysts Q and A. Before we begin, we would like to inform listeners that certain statements made by Co-Diagnostics during this call which are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements. In addition to diagnostic test developments and timing for commencement of clinical evaluations, this includes statements concerning the company's KodiX PCR testing platform, which requires regulatory approval and marketing authorization for diagnostic use and is not currently for sale.

Story Continues

Over the coming months, our team is focused on executing across four main growth pillars. First, we recently announced the engagement of Maxim Group to assist in identifying potential strategic alternatives for the company's Indian joint venture, Kocera Diagnostics, which may include a merger with a special purpose acquisition company or SPAC or similar entity listed on a US National Securities Exchange. We believe such a transaction may unlock value from our joint venture project in India and support our long-term funding strategy. Second, the Comira joint venture with Arabian Eagle, which marks the next step in our international expansion and commercial footprint as we expand our presence in Saudi Arabia, and 18 additional MENA nations.

Third, our AI business unit, which is driving innovation, operational efficiency, and new data-driven opportunities. And finally, the initiation of our upcoming upper respiratory multiplex test clinical evaluations which highlights our scientific leadership and reinforces our domestic credibility. Together, these initiatives form a complete and aligned strategy focused on financial strength, global reach, technological innovation, and disciplined execution. This is how we are approaching the remainder of 2025 and preparing the foundation for 2026 and beyond. This period represents a key inflection point for Co-Diagnostics and reflects years of execution to reach this stage of momentum and readiness. With that context in mind, let's begin with the first and most time-sensitive development. The SPAC.

One of the most exciting updates is our plan, Coursera SPAC transaction with Maxim Group. This is a major step that we believe can unlock real value for both our operations in India and for Co-Diagnostics as a whole. The funds raised in this transaction are expected to represent an infusion of growth capital for Coursera operations in India and to increase Co-Diagnostics' value as well. Preparation for the transaction is progressing according to plan. And we expect to share updates on this project over the next several weeks and months. Combined with recent fundraising activities, this transaction has the potential to provide both flexibility and financial stability as we move into 2026 and begin commercialization of the new platform.

This is a proactive step that has the potential to strengthen our balance sheet and create a clear path toward long-term sustainable value creation for our shareholders. I look forward to providing more updates on this transaction as they occur. Shifting focus, the next major component of our growth strategy is the Chimera joint venture. Our recently announced joint venture with Arabian Eagle Manufacturing has led to the formation of a new company named Comira Diagnostics. Which along with CoSera, will stand as one of the cornerstones of our international expansion strategy.

The principles of Arabian Eagle ran the primary distributor in The Middle East and were instrumental in Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia or KSA being one of the largest international markets for the company's logic smart tests. Under the terms of the definitive agreement signed in the KSA, we have established Chimera to localize our Kodiak PCR platform and other PCR-related intellectual property across The Middle East and North Africa. The partnership covers 19 countries, creating a significant commercial footprint in a high-growth region. Premier will be headquartered in Riyadh. With a dedicated manufacturing and assembly facility designed to produce PCR tests for infectious diseases and other applications relevant to the region's health care needs.

The venture will initially focus on local manufacturing and distribution of the Kodiak's PCR platform. With plans to expand into custom assay development and AI-enhanced diagnostics. The initiative aligns with the KSA's Saudi Vision 2030. Supporting technology localization, industrial diversification, and regional health care innovation. The regulatory pathway is anchored in obtaining Saudi Food and Drug Authority, SFDA clearance to facilitate regional distribution and regulatory acceptance across other MENA markets. OMIRA will combine Co-Diagnostics' molecular testing technology with Arabian Eagle's expertise in regional operations, infrastructure, and local market access. The agreement marks a major step in localizing advanced diagnostics within The Middle East and positions Co-Diagnostics as a strategic partner in regional public health resilience.

This milestone demonstrates that our international growth strategy has advanced from concept to execution. And reflects the strong high-value partnerships we continue to build globally. While this global initiative expands our reach outside The United States, we remain equally focused on commercialization and on advancing innovation through our AI business unit and other technology-driven initiatives. Another key part of our strategy is our new AI business unit. Led by our Chief Technology and AI Officer, Christopher Thurston. This team is bringing all our current and future AI projects under one umbrella, the Kodiak's Primer AI platform.

Additionally, our AI business unit is designed to accelerate the development of proprietary AI-powered diagnostics, enhanced data analytics, and improve operational efficiency across the organization. Integrating AI into our workflows will enable faster, smarter, and more scalable testing processes while minimizing human error and improving efficiency at the point of care. These tools will support real-time PCR diagnostics, advanced coprimers design and optimization, and automate interpretation to improve outcomes in both lab and field environments. Our AI models are also being designed to deliver predictive epidemiological insights giving health care providers and public health authorities earlier warning signals and improved situational awareness during potential outbreaks.

Over time, the system is expected to leverage analytics from widespread deployment of the Kodiak PC Pro to anticipate disease patterns and possibly predict outbreaks before they occur. As necessary, some of these models will be built on a secure HIPAA-compliant cloud platform with a new business unit formed to integrate internal data, workflow orchestration, and AI-driven analysis into a single cohesive framework. This initiative underscores our commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation by combining advanced AI technology with our proven PCR expertise. Importantly, this program will position Co-Diagnostics to participate in one of the most dynamic growth areas in health care technology while building valuable new intellectual property and data assets.

This is not simply an upgrade to existing systems. It is a transformational step that redefines what diagnostics can achieve in speed, accuracy, and real-time intelligence. As we continue to innovate, we are also executing scientifically through our flu A, B, COVID-19, and RSV multiplex test clinical evaluation program which further validates our progress and credibility in core diagnostics. We are preparing to initiate clinical evaluations for the upper respiratory multiplex test in the immediate future. A key milestone for Co-Diagnostics. This test is designed to simultaneously detect flu A, flu B, COVID-19, and RSV. Making it the most comprehensive respiratory panel in our portfolio. TESS has been supported by a RadixTech grant from the National Institutes Health or NIH.

Underscoring both the credibility and importance of this work. RADEC's tech program, was created to accelerate innovation in diagnostic testing. And our participation validates the strength of our technology and its public health relevance. This trial represents the culmination of extensive planning and development and marks the first Kodiak's multi-pathogen test to enter human clinical evaluation. The upper respiratory panel addresses a critical need in the domestic market, by combining accuracy, speed, and multiplex capability within a single point of care platform and we are pleased to be delivering on our commitment to initiate clinical evaluations in this flu season. The data from this trial will be used to support future regulatory submissions and commercial readiness for The US market.

And potentially for regulatory submissions in other markets as well. Such as the SFDA in parallel with the US FDA submission. Initiating this study is a major step forward for our domestic business, and a meaningful validation of our scientific and technical leadership. This test has generated consistent interest from both investors and potential partners. Particularly those focused on high-volume US respiratory testing demand.

Operator: The market for respiratory infections disease testing in The Middle East is also expanding. This is largely influenced by substantial investments in The Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia. And the KSA's commitment to improving public health alignment with the Saudi Vision 2030 program. This program represents a rigorous NIH-supported evaluation with strong commercial potential. And is a key component in reinforcing our reputation for execution and reliability within the diagnostics industry. In short, this milestone demonstrates that Co-Diagnostics is executing, not just planning. And delivering tangible scientific progress that supports both near-term and long-term growth.

Looking at our other programs like Kodiak's PCR MTB or tuberculosis test, and Kodiak's PCR HPV eight type multiplex test both remain on track to initiate clinical evaluations before year-end. As stated in previous communications, Both tests have been supported by grants from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and are anticipated to significantly contribute to our international expansion ambitions and represent key components in our goals to provide gold standard solutions for unmet needs in various markets that are only anticipated to expand over the coming years.

We believe that the introduction of competitively priced diagnostics into markets anxious to gain the upper hand against the spread of deadly and often devastating infections will position Kodiak's as a leader in innovation and point of care PCR diagnostics. Taken together, the initiatives we have discussed today, including the COSERA transaction, the Comira joint venture, the launch of our AI business unit, the imminent domestic clinical evaluations, and the upcoming clinical evaluations of the other tests in our pipeline all reflect the significant progress Co-Diagnostics has made over the past several months. Each of these milestones strengthens a different part of our business, from capital structure and international growth to innovation and scientific validation.

Collectively, they demonstrate that our strategy is working. Our execution is on track. And our team remains focused on creating lasting value for shareholders. Over the last two months, we also closed two strategic direct offerings totaling gross proceeds of $10.8 million. We are entering the next phase of growth from a position of strength supported by a robust balance sheet, a growing pipeline, and a clear path toward both near-term and long-term milestones.

Andrew Benson: With that, I'll now turn the call over to Brian L. Brown, our Chief Financial Officer.

Operator: To provide an update on our financial performance and outlook.

Brian L. Brown: Thanks, Dwight. And thank you to everyone who joined today's call. For the quarter, total revenue was $100,000 compared to $600,000 in the same period last year. In the prior year period, revenue from Gram represented approximately $400,000 while in Q3 2025, all revenue recognized came from product sales. Total operating expenses for Q3 2025 decreased to $7.1 million compared to $10.6 million in Q3 2024. This reduction reflects our continued focus on becoming more operationally efficient. Research and development expenses were $4.5 million compared to $4.9 million in the prior year comparable period.

Net loss for Q3 2025 was $5.9 million or a loss of $0.16 per fully diluted share compared to a $9.7 million loss or $0.32 per fully diluted share in the same period last year. Adjusted EBITDA was a loss of $300,000 in Q3 2025 compared to a loss of $8.8 million in Q3 2024. We ended the quarter with $11.4 million in cash, cash equivalents, and marketable investment securities. As always, we are carefully managing our spending to maintain a healthy balance sheet while positioning the company for commercialization. Throughout the year, we will continue to optimize our operating footprint to drive efficiency gains and cost savings.

In addition to the strategies outlined by Dwight earlier, we plan to meet other capital requirements through a combination of equity and debt financing, additional grant funding, and continued operational efficiencies. We are also evaluating other financing structures to strengthen our financial position and maintain flexibility. In parallel, we continue to pursue grant funding opportunities to support the advancement of our Kodiak TCR platform. In the near term, our focus remains on progressing our development pipeline, completing clinical evaluations, and preparing for regulatory submissions. We are allocating our resources and time strategically to support these priorities. Looking ahead, we are optimistic about multiple commercial launches expected in 2026 and the ongoing development within our test pipeline.

I look forward to sharing additional updates and milestones on our next call. With that, I will now turn the time back over to Dwight.

Operator: Thank you, Brian. To close, we want to extend our gratitude to Co-Diagnostics shareholders and to our employees whose consistent dedication and hard work is one of our most valuable assets to achieving the Kodiak's vision. Let's now open the line up for questions. Operator?

Andrew Benson: A question, press star, then the number one on your telephone keypad. To withdraw your question, simply press star 1 again. We will pause for just a moment to compile the Q and A roster. Your first question comes from the line of Catherine Beguin with H. C. Wainwright. Please go ahead.

Catherine Beguin: Hi. This is Catherine Anfoyi. My question centers around the performance of Khoceira and Khoemira. For COSERA, are they meeting your performance expectations? And if not, what's causing that discrepancy? And how do you kind of expect Comira to perform financially in comparison?

Dwight H. Egan: Catherine, thank you for the question. With respect to the performance of both COSERA and COMIRA, we're very pleased with the performance of both of those entities. Keep in mind that the Thelmyra entity is newly formed. And it was formed with leadership from previous interactions that we had from a business standpoint with the distributors of our product in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia has been consistently the largest international customer for Co-Diagnostics. And so it made a lot of sense for us to establish a joint venture where we could participate more actively in the forward-going opportunity in Saudi Arabia.

Especially as it revolves around the introduction of our new and revolutionary point of care device, the Kodiak's PCR Pro. So they played a huge role in what we're doing, what we have been doing. For the last several years at Co-Diagnostics. We expect that they will be a wonderful partner through this joint venture in moving our agenda forward in what, again, has been our largest international customer. With respect to Coceira, we have been involved in this joint venture with Coursera for about eight years. We have established a real solid footprint in that country. We have sales personnel that cover largely the entire country. We have significant manufacturing operations there.

Mostly on the Serebi family properties where we established our first laboratory manufacturing in 2019. When we cut the ribbon on that facility. And then last December, you'll recall we established on that same acreage another more sophisticated property for the development of our oligonucleotides, which we can now produce there in-country. And will continue to progress the manufacturing opportunity there so that they are manufactured in connection with the make it in India initiative of Prime Minister Modi. They will be making the cups or the cartridges along with the instrumentation. And so we're very pleased with the kind of market development that has occurred over there.

Co-Diagnostics is a real fan of the leadership the Serebi family and the other scientists and workers have brought to our company in India. We are well respected in India at the government level. In the academic area and in being able to supply our products to lots of different labs throughout the country. So we have developed a mature business there. That is now capable to kind of go off and bring additional value both to the people at CoSera and also the people at Co-Diagnostics. We think this will be mutual benefit to both entities and we're very enthusiastic about our prospects there.

Catherine Beguin: Thank you.

Andrew Benson: Your next question comes from the line of Mike Okunovich with Maxim Group. Please go ahead.

Mike Okunovich: Hey, guys. Thank you so much for taking my questions today, and congrats on all the great progress. I guess to kick things off, just like to see if you would talk a little bit about how a potential spin-out of COSERA might interact with the MTB and HPV point of care programs. Is this something where they might be licensed over, or you get some sort of distribution agreement signed? I'm just curious since it seems like there's quite a significant market in India for these programs.

Dwight H. Egan: Well, thanks for the question, Mike. You know, tuberculosis is a disease that is the number one killer in terms of infectious diseases in the world. And about twenty-five percent roughly of those deaths are coming from India. And a similar number is coming from Africa. And so, you know, between those two areas of the world, you have about half of all the deaths coming from tuberculosis, and tuberculosis is something that is curable. So it's really a shame not to be able to diagnose it effectively and get people treatment because it can be cured. If it's caught in time and properly dealt with therapeutics.

So we have a very concrete plan in India with respect to Khoesera capitalizing on being able to fill the gap between where they currently have access to PCR tests and where they need to have access. I don't think there's any credible key opinion leader in the world that believes that the main doesn't believe that the main solution to that problem of tuberculosis comes from replacing smear microscopy which is about a hundred and twenty-five-year-old diagnostic tool. Replacing that with molecular diagnostics is really what has to happen. And in order to make that happen, you have to have a product that has accessibility that has the kind of accuracy that molecular has.

And it also is something that you know, you have to be able to get it down to the end of the row. You can't make it too unaffordable. So we are, in our mind, the perfect solution to being able to fill that gap between where they currently have and it's not a lot of places, but where they currently have molecular diagnostics and where it will be able to be taken by virtue of the new accessible, affordable, and accurate solution that we have. So that applies both to tuberculosis and the human papillomavirus. Which has a large presence in India. I don't want you to think of India or Africa as being just TB and MTB markets.

They have a lot of other issues that need to be addressed and we intend to make those part of what we're addressing in these joint ventures and in the forthcoming transaction that we anticipate and hope for CoSera.

Brian L. Brown: Mike, if I can add something, this is Brian. You know, we are talking about different structures internally and what this might look like, but we don't have anything concrete to share to the market, and we will as we move forward in the process.

Mike Okunovich: Thank you. I appreciate the additional color here. I did want to follow-up just on the angle of affordability, and in particular, for the PCR Pro, wanna see if you could give a little bit more color on how you're actually able to reach a price point that is so much more affordable than your competitors. Does this have something to do with co primers allowing you to use a more less complex device? Any additional clarity you could provide on that would be helpful.

Dwight H. Egan: Again, an excellent question, Mike. And I think you know, one of the reasons that we're able to produce a product at the price point that we've done is that what we set out to do initially. Shortly after the COVID pandemic kicked in you know, we looked forward saying, where is this going to go? And we brought in a very, very good team of engineers and scientists with the express idea that they would create a product that could have a price point potentially as low as about $300 to $500 at scale. And that's been our goal from the beginning.

And one of the remarkable things about the research and development of this product is that in large measure, we've been able to keep a lid on what we think we will be able to produce this for at scale. And so as to whether other companies why they haven't been able to do this I think some of that has to do with the fact that they were making boxes before we even existed. And so, you know, they didn't really come at it with a fresh open clean slate like we did. And so we had certain important discrete goals that we wanted to accomplish. As we set out to engineer both scientifically and mechanically. This wonderful device.

Of course, co primers play a role in the effectiveness of the assays, but the co primer advantages revolve mainly around its ability to multiplex. So for instance, when you look at the human papillomavirus, this is an eight-plex test for certain specific cancer markers associated with human papillomavirus plus a ninth marker that is a human DNA control. So that's where coprimers kick in. They allow us to do this sort of multiplexing in class by ourselves because of the way coprimers get rid of the formulation of primer dimers. So I think that's the kind of guidance I could give you and the information about why we've been able to hold the price line.

And, you know, if you can't make the product at a price point that's relevant to the people that you're trying to serve, it doesn't matter. So we've really held the lid on that. We're excited to take it into the There's a huge gap.

Mike Okunovich: Absolutely. Thank you very much. And then one more for me, you don't mind, and I'll hop back into the queue. When looking at the Comira JV in Saudi Arabia and The Middle East, are there any particular products particularly from the PCR Pro, that you believe are most relevant for that market?

Dwight H. Egan: I believe that all of our current pipeline are very relevant to the Comira market. You know, it's not just tuberculosis and HPV. It also includes the number one problem in infectious disease. It's not the most deadly, but it's the most cases. And that's the upper respiratory. So our flu AB, you know, plus COVID plus RSV is a very, very important test for that market as well. And then that's just the beginning. We'll continue to develop more and more.

Mike Okunovich: Well, thank you so much for your answers today, and lots to look forward to going forward, it seems.

Andrew Benson: Thanks, Mike. That concludes our question and answer session. Ladies and gentlemen, this concludes today's call. Thank you all for joining. You may now disconnect.

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Co-Diagnostics (CODX) Q3 2025 Earnings Transcript was originally published by The Motley Fool
A bail hearing was told Gardai believed a terror attack was imminent prior to the arrest of a man in the Midlands last week.

Karolis Peckauskas (38) of An Tobar, 37 Newfoundwell Road, Drogheda, Co Louth, faces one charge of possession of an explosive substance, to wit four threaded pipe end caps and six litres of hydrogen peroxide at OMoore Place, Portlaoise on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

He applied for bail at a sitting of Portlaoise District Court where Detective Garda Joseph Fahy objected on behalf of the State.

Det Fahy said the defendant was stopped and searched in an 08D registered car at OMoore Place on November 4. He said the defendant owned the car and items including hydrogen peroxide, pipe end caps and plumbers putty were found in his car.

Also read: 'He has treated the court with contempt': Judge activates suspended sentences of man living in Longford

Det Fahy said a manifesto and a video were discovered during the search which indicated knowledge of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and suggested involvement of a right wing violent extremist group and the planning of a terrorist attack on behalf of a right wing group. He said the video indicated an intention to carry out a violent action and he was concerned the defendant wouldnt answer bail as he had family in Lithuania.

He said gardai believe the defendant is a member of a right wing violent extremist group and are objecting to bail due to the seriousness of the allegations.

Niall Storan BL said there was a sole charge before the court in relation to his client. He said his client had lived in Ireland since 2006 and his father has been here for 30 years. Mr Storan said the man has a brother and niece in Ireland and is engaged to a Latvian woman who has lived in Ireland for 20 years.

Det Fahy said hydrogen peroxide is known to be used in the production of IEDs.

Mr Storan said "hydrogen peroxide could be used for any number of things.

Det Fahy said a manifesto document outlining an intention to attack a mosque was also found in the car.

We believed that there was an attack imminent in relation to that mosque, said Det Fahy.

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said we would have a serious, serious, objection to bail and he said there was a video available to the court.

Also read: Community service for Longford man who punched victim in head during vicious assault

Mr Storan strongly objected to the inclusion of the video and said the recording hadnt been disclosed to him and he didnt see the relevance of it.

Sgt Kirby said I think it is one of the essential ingredients of the States case. I would urge you to look at it but in the interest of the security of the State, I would say that it should be in camera.

Mr Storan said the case related to items found in a car and whether they were for use to make pipe bombs. He said his client, who was aided by an interpreter and had members of his family in court, was in a position to provide an independent surety of 20,000, if given time. Mr Storan said there was no evidence that his client would commit serious offences if granted bail. He pointed out that there was no charge in relation to conspiracy to commit any offences.

Sgt Kirby said the evidence is very strong and it suggests there is documents planning a terrorist attack on behalf of a right wing extremist group. He said the investigation is at an early stage and there may be further charges.

Judge Cody said he wanted to look at the video with counsel for the accused. The court was then cleared and the video was played.

When court resumed, Judge Cody said the video showed a group of four men and two men read a typed and prepared statement.

He said he believed the evidence of Garda Fahy who believed one of those persons in that video was the accused.

Also read: Naive and reckless couple caught illegally selling firearms in Longford shop

Judge Cody said the men in the video were joking and laughing in the video and it was clear that it was practice for a statement and not an actual statement to be issued.

The video was addressed to all citizens North and South of Ireland and stated that they were speaking honestly and directly recognising that everyone in the country had enough of poor treatment particularly children, women and the elderly who had been left homeless starving and under threat due to the number of migrants brought to the country by the government.

They identified themselves as the IDA or the Irish Defence Army, said Judge Cody.

He explained that the group said they were taking responsibility for the destruction of the first Mosque in Ireland which was based in Galway.

Also read: Dogs destroyed after quite disturbing incident in Longford pound

They say that this will not be their last attack and that their approach will be an eye for an eye, he said. They then say they intend to target IPAS centres, Mosques and hotels housing migrants.

Judge Cody said he was accepting Garda Fahys evidence and that he was satisfied to refuse bail. He remanded the defendant in custody to appear again via video link before Portlaoise District Court on December 11.
Consumers across Ireland are being advised that leading retailer Penneys has recalled hundreds of baby soothers following the discovery of a choking risk.

In a public notice, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission says the impacted products are a 2pk Baby Bear Soother Clip and a 2pk Balloon Soother Clip.

"The products present a choking risk. The products are not fully compliant with the relevant safety standards specific to soother clips," reads the notice.

READ NEXT: Prestigious Colgate award for 'kind and caring' Longford Dental Centre team

Product details:

The 2pk Baby Bear Soother Clip barcode is 5397338449973. The 2pk Balloon Soother Clip barcode is 5397257874849. The 2pk Baby Bear Soother Clip has Kimball no. 69489 and the 2pk Balloon Soother Clip has Kimball no. 80010.

According to the CCPC, there are approximately 114 affected products of the 2pk Baby Bear Soother Clip and approximately 459 affected products of the 2pk Balloon Soother Clip.

"The products were sold in Penneys/Primark stores in Ireland between June 2025 and August 2025 (Baby Bear) and between March 2025 and September 2025 (Balloon)," reads the notice.

Also read: Longford motorists forced to swerve off road to avoid drifting dangerous driver

What to do:

Customers who purchased either of the impacted products are being advised to discontinue use immediately and to keep them out of the reach of children.

Any of the impacted products can be returned to any Penneys/Primark store for a full refund.

For further information on this recall, please contact Primark by emaiin help.ie@help.primark.com
A county Longford woman, who was left terrified when a serial thief suddenly 'dived head first' into her vehicle and stole her purse containing 200, told a judge she now is unable to sleep properly and she avoids the county town centre as she feels unsafe.

Charles Reilly (33) of Palace Crescent, Longford pleaded guilty last week at the local circuit court to the robbery of the injured party on Main Street, Longford on May 29 last at around 10pm.

State prosecutor Shane Geraghty BL said officers received a report from the complainant at 10.15pm who said a Calvin Klein purse had been stolen from her car.

The 65 year-old woman made a statement of complaint to gardai the following day where she described how she came into the county town to get a takeaway and she parked her vehicle on Main Street as she wanted to use the ATM.

"She described getting out of her vehicle, she walked a short distance to the ATM machine where she withdrew 200 and she put the money into her purse.

"She said she was walking back to her vehicle when she saw a male, wearing loose dark tracksuit bottoms, a white T-shirt and he appeared to be unshaven with greasy hair.

"She described he was leaning in the window of the vehicle parked in front of her car and he looked over his shoulder at her and at that stage she was back in her car.

"She described her purse was on the front passenger seat and ultimately the male who was standing in front of her car, he was waving his hands at her and he appeared to be in a panic or as if there was something wrong.

"He walked across the front of her car, he put his hands on the bonnet to prevent her driving away.

"She attempted to lock the doors but he opened the front seat passenger door and she described it as, 'I tried to lock the door, but he had the handle opened and he dived in head first'.

Also read: Suspended sentence for driver arrested by Longford gardai who had drugs hidden in van

Mr Geraghty said she looked sideways at him and he was up towards her face.

"He spoke to her and he told her to look across the road and he said there were Romanian gypsies watching her and they had her registration number and to be very careful."

Mr Geraghty said the complainant was anxious and 'in fear over what might happen' and Mr Reilly left the vehicle shortly afterwards but she then realised her purse was missing and she reported the theft of her purse to gardai who launched an investigation.

State prosecutor Shane Geraghty BL said CCTV footage was obtained from surrounding businesses.

Detective Garda Orla Geraghty said Mr Reilly was shown clothing that had been seized from him on July 5 last, which included blue shorts, a black top and black Nike runners.

Det Geraghty stated that 'appeared to be the same' clothing that was captured on the footage.

"He was asked whether he recognised them and he replied he had previously worn them but they were subsequently taken off him when he was arrested for a drugs search and they were on me.

Also read: Longford man pleads guilty to multitude of thefts and possession of offensive weapon

Mr Reilly had 117 previous convictions.

The injured party, who was in court outlined in a victim impact statement that was read by Det Geraghty on her behalf that while she did not suffer any physical injuries the impact and trauma on her mentally was immense.

"The psychological effect, it shook my sense of personal safety and security. I am always looking and watching people now expecting something to happen.

The complainant explained how her life had 'changed' and the first thing she does upon entering her car now is lock the doors.

"I don't come into Longford town centre anymore, I have changed my route, if I do have to go to Dunnes Stores I go round by the bypass just to avoid the town."

The complainant said she no longer sleeps well having previously slept soundly and she has additional medical issues.

"I was terrified, he was right up on top of me, I couldn't understand how he got so close to me so quickly."

John Shortt SC defending, said he was instructed the offending was as a result of drug addiction and Det Geraghty confirmed in more recent times, before he was jailed, he had been living with his partner and two teenage children.

Mr Reilly said drugs was the major catalyst for his offending. "I sincerely apologise with all my heart. If I had a right state of mind I never would have done it."

The defendant asked for the case to be put back for a governor's report and to give him a chance to write up an apology.

Judge Kenneth Connolly decided to remand Mr Reilly in custody and he adjourned the case until February 3 for finalisation.

It's very disappointing the woman has lost her faith in Longford. I find that very sad, he concluded. Mr Shortt SC, defending, agreed it was 'deplorable'.

Also read: Midlands men involved in 'ongoing Traveller feud' jailed following vicious stabbing in broad daylight
A 55 year old Solvakian man who pleaded guilty to stealing 6,000 from a Longford customer, has been given until February next year to be in a more realistic position to pay the money back.

Mr Lubomir Sokol of 28 Applewood Ave West in Swords, Dublin appeared before a recent sitting of Longford District Court on theft and fraud offences, with an interpreter translating proceedings for him.

The court heard how on a date between July 17 and 24 2024, Mr Sokol had accepted 6,000 from a woman for the purchase of windows, however the windows were never installed.

Addressing the court, his solicitor John Anderson, explained that Mr Sokol had huge health problems and asked for a probation report so we can get the full insight into this man.

Also read: Longford man with multiple disqualifications beating himself up over decision to drive

Mr Anderson said his client wanted to return the money to the lady but was currently out of work.

He had every intention of providing her with the windows she wanted, Mr Anderson explained. But he had a health issue and it spiralled. He is hoping to get a loan so he can pay her back.

Mr Sokol, who has no previous convictions, was remanded on continuing bail until February 3 2026 with a view to a probation report being prepared and for Mr Sokol to be in a more realistic position to offer compensation.

Also read: 'He has treated the court with contempt': Judge activates suspended sentences of man living in Longford
Investors seeking to benefit from the AI revolution do not have to restrict themselves to the Magnificent Seven, as there remain several other ways to create wealth in this exciting space. One of them remains through the infrastructure providers, the companies that provide the nuts and bolts that power the various AI applications, tools, and platforms.

To that end, CoreWeave (CRWV) is a name that has intrigued the investor community since it got listed earlier this year.

More News from Barchart

About CoreWeave

Founded in 2017, CoreWeave is a GPU-focused cloud provider purpose-built for AI/GenAI workloads. Its offerings include large-scale GPU clusters for model training and inference, VFX/rendering and other HPC workloads, managed infrastructure and platform tools, and an expanding set of developer/platform services.

Since its IPO, CRWV stock has been a market favorite, as it has more than doubled, with a rise of 96% on a YTD basis. Notably, CoreWeave's market cap currently stands at $43.2 billion.

However, a lowered revenue guidance and vagueness about a data center buildout delay have resulted in some investors turning their backs on the stock.

www.barchart.com

Missing the Forest for the Trees

CRWV stock witnessed a sharp decline of over 16% following its Q3 2025 results, after the company reported a delay in capacity deployment from a third-party data center developer/partner, believed to be its earlier acquisition target, Core Scientific (CORZ). CoreWeave had looked to acquire the crypto miner for $9 billion earlier this year to augment its power capacity, reported to be about 1.3 GW.

Further, investors also did not take kindly to the reduction in revenue guidance for 2025, after it was lowered to $5.05 billion to $5.15 billion from $5.15 billion to $5.35 billion earlier.

Although some more clarity regarding the client where the delay occurred was desirable, CEO Mike Intrator said CoreWeave had boots on the ground with the client, the lowered revenue guidance seemed more conservative in the sea of optimism and elevated projections in the AI space currently. Thus, the subsequent share price reaction was unwarranted, and the stock was a victim of being a conservative outlier. A closer look at the Q3 results would solidify this assertion.
A Boston Logan International Airport runway reopened Friday after closing for more than two months as construction crews worked on safety upgrades.

Runway 9-27 has been shut down since Sept. 2 as part of a plan to install a vital new safety system meant to stop planes that have overshot the runway, Massport said.

Due to the geography around the airport, this system is extremely important and is a FAA-approved method for achieving safety standards, Massport wrote in an August press release. This system is used at airports around the world and has prevented innumerable serious accidents.

This safety feature is already in use on two other runways at the Boston airport, according to Massport. The system does not extend the runway or change its operational capacity.

During the runway closure, the average number of flights per hour at Logan dropped from approximately 50 down to 40, Deputy Director of Airfield Projects Sara Dennechuk told WCVB.

MassPort has already planned a second, 75-day closure for Runway 9-27, which is scheduled to begin sometime after July 1, 2026.
The president of Boston University has addressed ongoing concerns around a student who boasted on social media about calling Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for months before agents detained workers at Allston Car Wash last week.

We have had many concerns raised by our campus community and neighbors about a social media post by a Boston University student following the November 4 actions of ICE at the Allston Car Wash, a statement from the spokesperson for Boston University read.

The University seeks to support the safety and well-being of all members of its community, which includes providing support to those who are distressed by this situation, as well as ensuring the safety of all others.

Boston University President Melissa L. Gilliam stated, We must affirm the dignity and worth of all people.

Too often, we fail to see one anothers full humanity, overlooking the rich complexity and unique gifts each person brings, Gilliam continued. When we focus only on differences  skin color, political views  we risk fostering division and pain where there should be unity and understanding.

The statements come after Zac Segal, a junior who is earning degrees in business and political science at the university, wrote in a social media post on Nov. 7 that he had been calling ICE for months on end. The post came just days after immigration officials descended on Allston Car Wash, detaining nine employees.

This week they finally responded to my request to detain these criminals. As someone who lives in the neighborhood, Ive seen how American jobs are being given away to those with no right to be here. Pump up the numbers! Segal wrote on X.

According to the Boston University Mens Track & Field page, Segal hails from London, England.

Segal was quote-tweeting a Boston.com story about the raid. When The Boston Globe published a story about Segal, he posted again, writing, We must stand up for this country.

While Segal is still active on X, he has taken down his profile on LinkedIn.

Segal did not respond to multiple messages from a MassLive reporter this week.

According to their lawyer, at least some of the nine employees had employment authorization cards issued by U.S. Customs and Immigration Services, which allow non-citizens to work in the country for a specific time period.

When ICE agents descended on the business Nov. 4, some employees tried to retrieve their documents from their lockers but were prevented from doing so, said Todd Pomerleau, a lawyer representing the employees.

Pomerleau has since filed habeas corpus cases in federal court for each employee, challenging their detainments as unlawful. Five of the people who were detained have been granted bond hearings.

The raid generated significant outrage in the community, drawing protesters to the car wash. Last week, a vigil was held to show support for the detained employees.

Boston City Councilor Liz Breadon, who represents the Allston neighborhood where the car wash is located, called the detentions kidnapping  plain and simple.

It is a horrifying chapter in the illegal and vindictive targeting of Boston by ICE and the Trump Administration, she said.

Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin told WCVB that all nine of the employees were in the country illegally.

On Nov. 4, ICE conducted a targeted immigration enforcement operation in Allston, Massachusetts that resulted in the arrest of 9 illegal aliens, including an illegal alien who chose to commit a felony by illegally re-entering the U.S., McLaughlin said in a statement. Three entered under the Biden administration, four were gotaways at the border, one entered illegally under W. Bush, and another overstayed his visa, which expired under President Clinton.

MassLive reporter Charlie McKenna contributed to this article.
A look at the new BJs Wholesale Club in Hampden Twp. July 31, 2025. Joe Hermitt | jhermitt@pennlive.com Joe Hermitt | jhermitt@pennlive.com

A BJs Wholesale Club in Massachusetts sold six winning Mass Cash lottery tickets for Fridays drawing, totaling more than $1 million in prize money.

The $1 tickets were sold at a BJs store in Franklin, according to the Massachusetts State Lottery website. The winning numbers were 1, 2, 5, 17 and 25.

Five tickets are listed as winning $200,000 and a sixth won $100,000 during Fridays drawing, all purchased at the same location.

The top prize for Mass Cash is $100,000, however, if multiple bets with the same numbers are put on one bet slip, The Lotterys website prize listing looks like more. In Fridays case, the five tickets represent 10 Mass Cash bets that yielded $1 million in winnings  plus another $100,000 on a sixth ticket.

Overall, at least 575 prizes worth $600 or more were won or claimed in Massachusetts on Friday, including 16 in Springfield, 20 in Worcester and 48 in Boston.

The Massachusetts State Lottery releases a full list of winning tickets every day. The list only includes winning tickets worth more than $600.

The largest lottery prize won so far this year was worth $1 million a year for life, from a winning Lifetime Millions scratch ticket sold in Springfield and claimed in July.
A 26-year-old Braintree man has been identified as the victim of a fiery crash in Brockton early Friday morning.

Shane Spillane was named as the man killed Nov. 14, according to the Plymouth County District Attorneys Office.

Spillane had been in a 2019 Infiniti Q50 with several other people at around 1:30 a.m. on Friday when the car struck a white box truck at Centre Street and Quincy Street in Brockton.

Surveillance footage showed the Infiniti driving on Centre Street and the truck on Quincy Street when they collided at the center of the intersection the intersection, the office said. The Infiniti hit the box trucks drivers side door, causing the truck to roll on its side.

The car became engulfed in flames and all of its occupants were trapped inside, while the box truck flipped onto its drivers side, the office said. Several people were brought to the hospital from both vehicles.

Spillane was pronounced dead at Boston Medical Center South in Brockton after the crash, the office said.

The district attorneys office noted that the traffic lights at the intersection were functioning at the time of the crash and the roadway was well-lit.

The investigation into the fatal crash is ongoing, conducted by state troopers.
A former Cambridge music teacher and a Filipino national living in Baltimore were recently indicted on charges that accuse the men of exploiting minor boys in the Philippines to produce sexual abuse materials, the Massachusetts U.S. Attorneys Office announced Thursday.

Joshua DeWitte, 50, of Cambridge, was indicted by a federal grand jury Oct. 29 on six counts of sexual exploitation of children (and attempt and conspiracy); one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of children; one count of distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.

DeWitte was arrested in January and faced other charges: six counts of disseminating obscene material to a child, one count of distribution of material depicting a child in a sexual act and one count of possession of child pornography.

He was released on conditions then but was arrested again in May and charged with sexual exploitation of minors (and attempt and conspiracy), according to the U.S Attorneys office.

Christopher Allan Tisoy, 27, a Filipino national residing in Baltimore, Maryland, was charged by an information on Oct. 29 with one count of sexual exploitation of children (and attempt and conspiracy) and one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of children.

Tisoy had also been arrested in May and charged with sexual exploitation of minors (and attempt and conspiracy).

Both men now remain in federal custody, the Massachusetts U.S. Attorneys Office wrote in a press release not made public until Nov. 13, after the federal government reopened from a 43-day shutdown.

At the time DeWitte is alleged to have committed these crimes, he was a music teacher at the Buckingham, Browne & Nichols K-12 School, according to the U.S. Attorneys office and Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryans Office.

He was placed on leave in January while Cambridge police continue their investigations, Head of School Jennifer Price said in a statement then, confirming he had just started at the school at the beginning of the school year. Police didnt believe any students at the school were involved in the case.

Tisoy entered the U.S. legally in September 2024 and was employed as a medical technologist at the Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, the U.S. Attorneys office said.

What do authorities think happened?

In December 2024, DeWitte was identified as the owner of a Snapchat account that uploaded a file of suspected child sexual abuse material depicting the abuse of a boy who appeared to be between 8 and 10 years old, the U.S. Attorneys office said.

Records obtained from Snapchat indicated that DeWitte had multiple conversations that were sexual in nature with users who presented themselves as minors in September 2024.

In those conversations, DeWitte requested nude pictures from the purported minors, sent pictures of his penis and discussed previous and potential in-person meetups during which they would have sexual relations, the U.S. Attorneys office said. Additionally, it is alleged that DeWitte paid and offered to pay another Snapchat user to obtain and produce child sexual abuse material.

Based on that information, state law enforcement obtained a search warrant for DeWittes home in January, the U.S. Attorneys office said. He was arrested and charged in Cambridge District Court with six counts of disseminating obscene material to a child, one count of distribution of material depicting a child in a sexual act and one count of possession of child pornography. He was later released with conditions.

A forensic examination of DeWittes cell phone  which was seized when he was first arrested  revealed a Telegram conversation between him and Tisoy in which they arranged for the production of videos depicting the sexual exploitation of at least two minor boys in the Philippines, the U.S. Attorneys office said.

The two are alleged to have negotiated conditions under which the videos would be produced, including which minors should be involved, which sex acts they would perform, who would film them, what angles would be filmed and how much DeWitte would pay Tisoy for each video.

The negotiation incorporated the sexual preferences of both men, with both agreeing on what they would each find sexually gratifying, the U.S. Attorneys office said. Tisoy then allegedly relayed these instructions to the minor victims to create a video.

DeWitte is alleged to have paid Tisoy for each video he produced and sent, the U.S. Attorneys office said. It is alleged that, between July 3, 2023 and Dec. 27, 2024, DeWitte sent 87 PayPal payments to Tisoy, in amounts ranging from $27 to $958 and totaling nearly $24,000.
China vows to continue support for int'l Chinese language education

Xinhua) 15:35, November 15, 2025

Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, attends the opening ceremony of the 2025 World Chinese Language Conference and delivers a speech in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Ding Lin)

BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang on Friday said China will, as always, support and serve all other countries in carrying out Chinese language education, and work together to advance language and cultural exchanges and cooperation.

Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when addressing the opening ceremony of the 2025 World Chinese Language Conference in Beijing.

Noting the rising popularity of the Chinese language in the international community in recent years, Ding said China's firm adherence to high-quality development and opening up will provide more opportunities for other countries, and the international community's demand for learning Chinese and understanding China will also continue to grow.

To promote Chinese language education, he called for efforts to advance innovation in line with the educational trends in the digital and intelligent era to make Chinese learning more convenient and efficient, and stressed the integrated development of international Chinese education with vocational and specialized education to expand the language's application scenarios.

Ding called on primary and secondary schools from home and abroad to form partnerships in language education to soundly organize Chinese language competitions and facilitate Chinese learners' studies in China.

He also urged efforts to jointly implement the Global Civilization Initiative and strengthen the two-way exchanges between Chinese and the languages of countries around the world.

About 2,000 guests, including government officials from China and abroad, experts and scholars, university leaders, and representatives of international organizations, attended the opening ceremony.

The 2025 World Chinese Language Conference will run until Sunday under the theme of "Innovation Leads, AI Empowers: Learning Chinese without Borders."

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Liang Jun)
When a company like Nvidia designs a new chip, it takes it to TSM to actually print the design on a silicon wafer. TSM is the top choice for Nvidia, AMD, and many other chip designers, thanks to its precision, quality control, and innovative technical capabilities. As of mid-2025, TSM commanded an estimated 65% of global semiconductor manufacturing and 90% of advanced 3nm chips for AI and other more demanding applications.

TSMC is the go-to chip foundry for all of Nvidia's and AMD's chips, in addition to many from Apple, Broadcom, Oracle, and others.

However, President Trump left foreign companies with an out - if they elected to establish any manufacturing facilities in the US, any products sourced from there sold in the US would be tariff-free . To the relief of the entire AI industry, it was announced in the spring that TSM would be investing a total of $165 billion to build US semiconductor foundries in Phoenix, Arizona.

When President Trump announced his initial round of reciprocal tariffs as a precursor to new international trade deals in late March, his tariffs on Taiwan sent shockwaves down the spines of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) industry. While the top semiconductor companies in AI are Nvidia and AMD, which are both American, neither company manufactures any of their Graphics Processing Units (GPU), which are essential for AI. Both of them go to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company for all foundry manufacturing work.

In the high tech universe, there is only a single common road that Nvidia ( NASDAQ: NVDA ) , Advanced Micro Devices ( NASDAQ: AMD ) , Apple ( NASDAQ: AAPL ) , Qualcomm ( NASDAQ: QCOM ) , Broadcom ( NASDAQ: AVGO ) and many others must go to get their chips made, no matter where they hail from. That road inevitably leads to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. ( NYSE: TSM ) , the largest semiconductor foundry on the planet.

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Nvidia and AMD manufacture all their GPUs through TSM despite being American companies.

TSMs first Phoenix fab started production in Q4 2024 with two more targeting volume production by 2028 and decade end.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSM) will invest $165B in Phoenix facilities to avoid US tariffs. TSM presently controls roughly 65% of global semiconductor manufacturing and 90% of advanced 3nm chips.

Story Continues

The explosion of growth in the artificial intelligence and data center arenas have led to a commensurate demand acceleration for Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) chips and a panoply of similar ones for those fields. By focusing on precision foundry work, TSM has become the premier go-to player, for chip designers, even among those competing in various sectors.

The Geopolitical Threat From China

U.S. reciprocal tariffs are not the only threat to the TSM chip supply chain. Mao Zedong and Chiang Kai-shek battled for control of China after the post-Sun Yat-sen Chinese Republic era and the aftermath of WW II and the Japanese occupation. As history has shown, Chiangs Nationalist army was forced to retreat to Taiwan when Maos Communist forces prevailed. Taiwan has been a geopolitical flashpoint ever since. Due to claims by The Peoples Republic of Chinas Communist Party leadership that Taiwan is a rogue state that is a part of China proper, the nation is in a state of perpetual invasion alert. Any overt military action on Taiwanese soil could result in a domino-effect of chip shortages if TSM is forced to halt production.

For the entire AI community, the inviolability of Nvidia and AMD chips that are crucial for operating AI is now more secure. For Taiwan, its semiconductor dominance via TSM is a good thing, from a national security perspective. Geopolitical observers frequently refer to Taiwans semiconductor industry as a silicon shield by serving as an incentive for the international community to keep Taiwan out of Beijings control. The trade negotiations between President Trump and President Xi Jinping include the level of speed and iterations of Nvidias exports to China, so US manufacturing is a key leverage angle for President Trump.

By The Time I Get To Phoenix

TSM has not been idle, and in fact, initiated the first steps towards Phoenix in 2020, as well as a European facility in Dresden, Germany. An initial $12 billion was allocated for the first Phoenix plant, and it has since scaled up to $165 billion, making it the largest direct foreign investment greenfield project in US history.

The total complex is slated to include:

Six (6) semiconductor wafer fabrication plants

Two advanced packaging facilities

A Research & Development team center

The following milestones have already been achieved:

First Fab: High-volume production on N4 process technology started in Q4 2024.

Second Fab: Construction was completed on the fab structure in 2025. Volume production on N3 process technology is targeted for 2028.

Third Fab: In April 2025, TSMC broke ground on the site of the third fab, slated for N2 and A16 process technologies. Targeting volume production by the end of the decade.

With annual global spending on AI on track to break $1.5 trillion in 2025 and to continue to expand, TSM has become one of the most crucial manufacturing companies on the face of the earth. Luckily its future prospects are no longer tethered to geography, and its Phoenix arrangement takes a key strategic asset off the table as a potential target in the geopolitical military sphere.

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A man serving a life sentence for killing another man in Springfield when he was 18 years old wasnt supposed to get a second chance.

And though the laws in Massachusetts have changed, the parole board still isnt ready to grant his freedom.

John Carter, 52, has been incarcerated for the past 33 years after killing a 22-year-old man named Jerry Hughes in 1991.

At the time of the killing, Carter was associated with a known narcotics dealer who wanted Hughes dead. That dealer had a gun delivered to Carter in the days before the killing and at 6:30 p.m. on March 3, 1991, Carter drove to the Rainville Hotel in Springfield.

Carter was with his co-defendant, Donald Vanhook, who dropped Carter off at a street corner near the hotel and waited. Carter was armed with the gun and went into the hotel, then came out with Hughes.

The two exchanged words briefly and Carter stepped back, pulled the gun from his jacket and shot Hughes dead at point-blank range.

Carter later admitted to killing Hughes and was convicted of first-degree murder in 1992, sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

However, in January 2024, the Supreme Judicial Court ruled in Commonwealth v. Mattis that sentencing people, ages 18 through 20 at the time of their offense, to life without the possibility of parole was unconstitutional and amounted to cruel and unusual punishment.

Massachusetts was the first state in the country to transform the law, experts said.

Essentially, the brains of what we are calling late adolescents or emerging adults function very much like juveniles, Northampton attorney Paul Rudof, one of the lawyers who successfully challenged life sentences for individuals aged 18 to 20, told The Republican last year.

There were 210 cases that fell into the Mattis decision across Massachusetts, including Carters.

But the board called Carters initial term of incarceration troubling, as he accrued disciplinary reports for violence and weapons. He also spent a 10-year-term in the Disciplinary Unit for an organized, violent assault of a corrections officer.

The board is also concerned with Carters honesty, it wrote in its decision, because he filed a fraudulent affidavit in a 2020 motion for a new trial and claimed he did not kill Hughes.

Carter has spent time in rehabilitative programming since Mattis and the board encouraged him to continue, adding it appreciates that he earned his Hi-Set [high school equivalency test] in 2023.

However, parole board members concluded Carter hadnt demonstrated a level of rehabilitation that would make his release compatible with the welfare of society and denied his parole. Theyd also heard public testimony for those who spoke in support of parole and from assistant district attorney Lee Baker, who spoke in opposition.

The courts Mattis decision has often been devastating for the families of those killed as they are forced to relive the trauma, often going in front of the parole board and the incarcerated individual to make their own case.

Families have described the process as a  nightmare , stating they feel betrayed and that the system is treating murderers as victims while their own pain is ignored. One family member during a previous hearing walked out, feeling as if his side wasnt being fairly heard after the incarcerated individual was told they did a good job.
A man from Guatemala recently pleaded guilty in federal court to assaulting officers during an immigration arrest in Marlborough in May, according to the Massachusetts U.S. Attorneys Office.

Guido Andres Cuellar Batres, 24, was accused of biting, kicking and hitting federal law enforcement officers when he was taken into custody in the spring. He pleaded guilty Oct. 30 to forcibly assaulting, resisting, opposing, impeding, intimidating, or interfering with federal officers engaged in the performance of official duties, the Massachusetts U.S. Attorneys Office wrote in a press release not made public until Nov. 13, after the federal government reopened from a 43-day shutdown.

Cuellar, a Guatemalan national, overstayed his non-immigrant visa by more than four years, leading to an outstanding immigration warrant for his arrest, according to authorities.

On May 4, three Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers and a Drug Enforcement Administration agent conducting surveillance in a Marlborough parking lot spotted Cuellar in the front passenger seat of a car, according to authorities.

The officers, wearing law enforcement garments, approached the car and ordered Cuellar to get out of the vehicle, in Spanish and English, the release read.

He refused and, despite instructions to keep his hands visible, he reached down in the front passenger seat, which led officers to break the rear passenger side window and unlock the front passenger door, according to the release.

The officers removed Cuellar from the vehicle, but he did not cooperate when they tried to handcuff him. According to authorities, Cuellar bit one officer in the hand and another in the leg, hit an officer in the head multiple times, and spat in an officers face, the release read.

Once he was handcuffed and placed in leg restraints, Cuellar continued to kick at officers, according to authorities.

Cuellar was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 17.

U.S. District Court Judge Angel Kelley scheduled sentencing for Jan. 12, 2026.

Cuellars charge provides for a sentence of up to eight years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office.
Dave Burgess, the musician, songwriter and producer who co-wrote the instrumental rock-and-roll hit Tequila and founded the band The Champs, died at 90 years old on Oct. 19 in Dover, Tennessee. Sebastian Restrepo

Dave Burgess, the musician, songwriter and producer who co-wrote the instrumental rock-and-roll hit Tequila and founded the band The Champs, has died at 90 years old.

Burgess died on Oct. 19 in Dover, Tennessee where he lived, according to the late musicians obituary. No cause of death has been revealed.

Burgess was born on Dec. 3, 1934 in Los Angeles, California, as Sigmund Eck. He was raised by his mother and stepfather, Austin Tex Burges, and adopted his stepfathers name as his stage name, adding an extra s. He legally changed his name to Dave Burgess in 1959.

The Champs was created after Burgess was brought into Gene Autreys Challenge Records as a solo artist to assemble a recording session in hopes of creating a hit for the label, according to Daily Mail.

He then worked with saxophonist Chuck Rios trio, to create a B-side called Train to Nowhere, which became their most popular song, Tequila.

Label executives wanted to release the song but the band needed a name and so they called themselves The Champions, after Autrys horse, but shortened it to The Champs.

The song quickly became a pop culture staple, hitting No. 1 on the charts in March 1958, his obituary reads.

Tequila sold more than a million copies and won the inaugural Grammy for best R&B performance the following year, according to Parade.

It also appeared in Tim Burtons film Pee-Wees Big Adventure and was sung on Americas Got Talent by Any Rowell back in 2019, Genius reported.

Beyond his rock-and-roll success, Burgess was married to professional dancer and actress Deon Adair Raab on May 17, 1959.

The couple moved from Hollywood to Montana with their son, David, and daughter, Charmaine, and operated an art gallery, the obituary reads.

After several years, the family moved to Nashville, Tennessee so that Burgess could return to the music business as a producer and songwriter.

Burgess is preceded in death by his parents and stepfather, his wife and daughter, the obituary states.
A federal employee in Boston who is at risk of losing her job because she spoke to the press about the impact of the government shutdown on food benefits is defending her choice, saying it was her right as a citizen and duty as a union leader.

Ellen Mei, an employee of the USDAs Food and Nutrition Service and president of the National Treasury Employees Unions Chapter 255, which represents FNS employees in the Northeast, said at a press conference Friday that she was dedicated to providing a public service.

This press conference today isnt just about getting me my job back. It isnt just about defending federal workers, said Mei, a Cambridge resident who works in the Tip ONeill Federal Building in Boston. Its about speaking up against the administrations attempt to stifle all voices who they cant fully control and to make sure that FNS, the agency that I work for, can continue its mission to increase food security and reduce hunger in a manner that inspires public confidence.

On Oct. 2, the second day of the federal government shutdown that ended this week after a record 43 days, Mei gave a television interview on MSNBC in which she discussed the impacts of the shutdown on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. She said she and her coworkers were worried about the impacts and discussed, as others had already said publicly, the possibility that November benefits would not be sent out if the shutdown continued.

During the interview, she made it clear she was speaking on behalf of herself as a private citizen and as head of the union, not as an employee of the agency.

The following night, Mei said she received an email from her human resources department they intended to fire her 30 days after the shutdown ended saying she had broken policy by representing the agency publicly and that she did not have the authorization to disclose information about November benefits.

Mei said Friday she is currently on paid administrative leave and has until 20 days after the shutdown ends to appeal her firing. She said she is working with the union to put together a formal appeal and intends to remain in her position, but in the event the agency does fire her, they intend to pursue legal action.

The Department of Agriculture issued a statement to MassLive on Thursday evening: During a lapse in appropriations, furloughed USDA employees are not authorized to perform any official duties, including speaking on behalf of the Department. The USDA does not comment on individual personnel matters.

Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-7th District, left, stands with her arm around Ellen Mei, right, a federal employee fired for giving a news interview about SNAP during the government shutdown. (Trea Lavery/MassLive)

U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-7th District, criticized the Trump administration for jeopardizing Meis free speech despite the presidents claims to be promoting freedom.

I just wish we had a president and a cabinet as committed to the mission of their agencies as the workers they so fervently try to purge, Pressley said. They want a citizenry that is ignorant and uninformed, that is indifferent to the suffering of its neighbors, that is inactive. And every time we push back, we reject their dark vision for this country as an inevitability.

Mei is not the first federal employee to lose her job for speaking up. Lane To, a former Environmental Protection Agency employee who was one of 15 terminated in September for signing a letter of dissent against the administrations environmental policies, said Friday that it was illegal retaliation.

Federal workers are the first line of defense against an authoritarian government, and this administration knows that, To said. That is why theyre trying to silence us. But we will not be silenced.

Sen. Ed Markey, D-Massachusetts, called the Trump administrations actions the greatest single act of union busting in modern American history.

Trump treats working people as political pawns, but a public servant trying to make their mortgage or pay for their kids medicine is not a game that should be played in our country, he said.
Temperatures will drop overnight on Friday as forecasters eye a wet storm heading toward Massachusetts for the weekend.

While skies are expected to clear by midnight and winds will die down, temperatures may hit the low 20s across most parts of the state, according to the National Weather Service.

Some areas of Western and Central Massachusetts, especially those in higher elevations, may hit the upper teens, with the wind chill making conditions feel even colder.

Though the daytime on Saturday will be dry, temperatures may struggle to reach the 50s across the state. Cloud coverage will increase into the afternoon before rain finally moves in the evening, spreading statewide from west to east.

Rainfall totals could be up to half an inch, with some areas receiving up to three-quarters of an inch.

Initially, forecasters were concerned for bouts of freezing rain in some areas of the state.

However, later models on Friday suggest all precipitation will fall as rain  unfrozen  since temperatures will stay above freezing when the storm arrives.

The rain is expected to taper off by Sunday morning as the cold front moves offshore, though wind gusts will pick up by late morning and could reach between 30 and 40 mph.

Temperatures will vary, with highs in the 50s in Eastern Massachusetts, upper 40s in Central and Western Massachusetts. Conditions could become chillier overnight as temperatures dip to the 30s.
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If your internet bill suddenly jumps $12, your airline miles stop going as far, or your streaming subscription quietly tacks on another fee, youre not imagining it.

Its what experts call the loyalty penalty, and it has quietly become one of the biggest ways companies boost revenue. You stay put, prices creep up, and loyalty ends up costing you.

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Dave Ramsey warns nearly 50% of Americans are making 1 big Social Security mistake  heres what it is and 3 simple steps to fix it ASAP

But the good news is that these increases are often negotiable, as long as you talk to the right person. Take it from a professional: Investor and Shark Tank star Kevin OLeary says he combats creeping prices by asking to speak with one specific person.

Why Kevin OLeary says the retention officer is your secret weapon

When a price hike shows up on your bill, who you talk to matters.

I always call on a bill and say, Let me speak to your retention officer. Avoid dealing with the sales rep, because only the retention officer can cut the deal, he said (1).

A retention officer (sometimes called a customer retention specialist) has one job: to stop you from canceling. Theyre usually the only person authorized to:

Extend or reinstate promotional rates

Waive fees or one-time charges

Offer loyalty perks

Price-match a competitor

Financial software firm Vena Solutions reports that when customers do escalate calls, retention teams can successfully keep between 67% to 84% of accounts in various industries by offering targeted incentives. (2)

And companies fight hard to keep you. Research from Outbound Engine shows that acquiring a new customer can cost five times more than retaining current consumers (3). ThinkImpact reports that 65% of company revenue often comes from loyal customers, so many businesses offer perks to retain their following (4).

For example, it costs a company money to pay an employee to come to your home and install your Internet service, as well as paying for the equipment used to do so. An existing customer hands over money every month without costing the company anything extra that a new customer would.

How the loyalty penalty quietly drains your wallet

Companies have learned that most people simply wont switch. And because of that, loyalty programs and long-term customer relationships can become traps that mask steadily rising costs.

Heres how pricing creeps up across common services:
Heart damage in midlife, indicated by high troponin, may increase the risk of dementia later in life.

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High-sensitivity cardiac troponin I and risk of dementia: the 25-year longitudinal Whitehall II study



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TOP INSIGHT People with signs of damage to their heart during middle age are more likely to develop dementia in later life

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Troponin Levels in Midlife Reveal Long-Term Dementia Risk

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Managing Blood Pressure and Heart Health Could Protect the Brain

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38% Greater Dementia Risk Linked to Elevated Troponin

Midlife Blood Marker for Dementia Prediction

High-sensitivity cardiac troponin I and risk of dementia: the 25-year longitudinal Whitehall II study - (https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/advance-article/doi/10.1093/eurheartj/ehaf834/8307234)

New research led by University College London (UCL) indicates that signs of heart damage in middle age may significantly increase the risk of developing dementia later in life ().Published in theand funded by the British Heart Foundation, the study examined levels of a protein called cardiac troponin I in the blood, a key marker of heart muscle damage.Researchers discovered thatRemarkably, elevated troponin levels were observed in participants who eventually developed dementia up to 25 years before their diagnosis, suggesting that subtle heart damage in midlife may serve as an early warning sign for cognitive decline Doctors look for very high levels in people they suspect of having a heart attack . However, higher-than-normal levels of troponin, without symptoms, could indicate silent, ongoing damage to the heart muscle or problems with its function. This can have a knock-on effect elsewhere in the body, impacting blood vessel health and blood flow to the brain, and leading to dementia.Senior author Professor Eric Brunner (UCL Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care) said: Poor heart health in middle age puts people at increased risk of dementia in later life.Control of risk factors common to both heart disease, stroke and dementia in middle age, such as high blood pressure, may slow or even stop development of dementia as well as cardiovascular disease.We now need to carry out studies to investigate how well troponin levels in the blood can predict future dementia risk. Our early results suggest that troponin could become an important component of a risk score to predict future probability of dementia.Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of conditions that involve damage to brain cells, leading to a decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning abilities.The 2024on dementia, led by Professor Gill Livingston (UCL Psychiatry) who also co-authored this latest paper, estimated thatincluding high blood pressure and cholesterol, physical inactivity, and obesity.*This new study involved nearly 6,000 participants in the Whitehall II study, which has followed people who worked for the British Civil Service since 1985 for decades to understand more about health and ageing**; Whitehall II is led by Professor Mika Kivimaki (UCL Psychiatry), who also co-authored this latest paper. All participants had a high-sensitivity troponin test when they were aged between 45 and 69, which can measure troponin in the blood at levels much lower than after a heart attack.None of these people had dementia or cardiovascular disease when they were given their first troponin blood test. They were then tracked for an average of 25 years, completing tests at up to six points to assess their memory and thinking abilities.During the study, 695 people were diagnosed with dementia. When researchers compared each person with a dementia diagnosis to four people without, they found those with dementia had consistently higher levels of troponin in their blood. This was apparent in blood tests they had between seven and 25 years before their diagnosis.People with the highest troponin levels at the beginning of the study had a 38% higher chance of developing dementia by the end of it, compared to those with the lowest levels.After taking into account factors including sex, ethnicity and education level, researchers found thatTheir mental abilities at the age of 80 were equivalent to those of people almost a year and a half older, based on cognitive tests. At the age of 90, their mental abilities were equivalent to those of people who were two years older.Researchers then investigated a group of 641 people from the study who also had an MRI scan of their brains. Compared to those with the lowest levels, people with the highest troponin levels at the beginning of the study tended to have a smaller hippocampus  a region of the brain important for memory  15 years later. They also tended to have a smaller volume of grey matter in their brain  the outer layer of the brain which is important for processing information.These findings from the brain scans suggested the participants brains were equivalent to those of people around three years older, according to the researchers.Lead author Dr Simon Chen (UCL Psychiatry) said: Our study represents the longest follow-up to date to investigate links between raised cardiac troponin levels, and cognitive decline and dementia.We also found that higher blood troponin levels in people with dementia compared with controls were more marked in midlife compared to late life, suggesting that midlife blood troponin levels may be a better biomarker for dementia risk prediction.Professor Bryan Williams, Chief Scientific and Medical Officer at the British Heart Foundation, commented: This study is an important reminder that our heart and brain health are inseparable. The results suggest that middle age is a particularly sensitive time, with damage at this stage setting up a trajectory of decline in heart and brain health Our advice to focus on heart health throughout life also gives our brains the best chance of ageing well. That means keeping our blood pressure under control, managing our cholesterol levels, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking.This also underscores why the British Heart Foundation is investing 10 million into its Centre for vascular dementia research, hosted by the UK Dementia Research Institute, to find better ways to prevent and treat the devastating impact of vascular dementia.Source-Eurekalert
On 17 November 2025, we unite in teal to spark action and ambition: eliminate cervical cancer once and for all.

Highlights: The newly designated World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day on 17 November 2025 signals the first global health day dedicated to eliminating a cancer

The 90-70-90 targets (90 % vaccination, 70 % screening, 90 % treatment) set the world on track to end cervical cancer as a public health problem

Achieving cervical cancer elimination is a major equity goal- it demands that every girl and woman, regardless of location or income, has access to prevention, screening and care

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Cervical Cancer Elimination Initiative



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World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day



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TOP INSIGHT Did you know?

If all countries hit the 90-70-90 targets for cervical cancer elimination, more than 60 million lives could be saved globally in the next 40 years. #CervicalCancer #EliminateCervicalCancer #medindia

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What is Cervical Cancer?

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Cervical Cancer Elimination Initiative



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World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day

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World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day



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The 90-70-90 Targets for Elimination of Cervical Cancer

90% of girls are fully vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by age 15.

of girls are fully vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by age 15. 70% of women screened with a high-performance test by age 35 and again by age 45. 90% of women identified with cervical disease (pre-cancer or cancer) were treated appropriately.

Importance of Cervical Cancer Elimination

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Cervical Cancer Elimination Initiative



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Being a Part of the World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day

Individuals and families: Ensure adolescent girls receive the HPV vaccine on schedule. Women aged according to national guidelines should attend screening and act promptly on results.

Ensure adolescent girls receive the HPV vaccine on schedule. Women aged according to national guidelines should attend screening and act promptly on results. Communities and civil society: Raise awareness with events, stories and campaigns. Use social media, local groups, and survivor voices to break stigma around cervical cancer.

Raise awareness with events, stories and campaigns. Use social media, local groups, and survivor voices to break stigma around cervical cancer. Governments and health systems: Prioritise sustained financing, robust data systems, supply of HPV vaccines and screening tools, and training of healthcare workers. The 2025 observance themes emphasise the need for bold, united action on service access.

Prioritise sustained financing, robust data systems, supply of HPV vaccines and screening tools, and training of healthcare workers. The 2025 observance themes emphasise the need for bold, united action on service access. All stakeholders together: On 17 November, support the global movement by lighting up landmarks in teal (the awareness colour), hosting education activities or simply sharing the message: prevention is possible.

What Elimination of Cervical Cancer Means for India and Other High-Burden Countries

World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day 2025

Cervical Cancer Elimination Initiative - (https://www.who.int/initiatives/cervical-cancer-elimination-initiative) World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day - (https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-cervical-cancer-elimination-day/2025) World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day - (https://apps.who.int/gb/ebwha/pdf_files/WHA78/A78_R8-en.pdf)

With over 660,000 new cases and 350,000 fatalities in 2022, cervical cancer is the fourth most frequent malignancy in women worldwide (). On, the world marks the first officially designated World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day, aiming to rally global action to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem ().Cervical cancer is a type of malignancy that occurs in the cervix, commonly caused by persistent infection with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV). Because we have effective vaccines, screening tools and treatments, it is considered one of the most preventable and treatable cancers (). The fact that the World Health Organization (WHO) and its Member States have set concrete targets means that elimination is within reach.The date 17 November holds special importance. It was on this day in 2020 that WHO launched its Global Strategy to accelerate cervical cancer elimination. In May 2025, the Seventy-Eighth World Health Assembly adopted resolution WHA78.8, officially designating 17 November each year as World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day beginning in 2025 (). These steps confirm the commitment of countries around the world to tackle this disease.At the heart of the strategy are clear, measurable targets for 2030:If countries meet these targets and sustain progress, modelling shows that eliminating cervical cancer as a major public health problem is feasible within the next few decades.Cervical cancer disproportionately affects women in low- and middle-income countries, where access to prevention, screening and treatment services is limited. The elimination agenda is not only about reducing deaths but also aboutand ensuring that all girls and women, regardless of where they live, have access to life-saving care (). By marking this day, communities and health systems are reminded that the fight against cervical cancer is part of the broader drive for universal health coverage and women's empowerment.Everyone has a role to play:In India and similar high-burden settings, the elimination of cervical cancer can yield enormous health gains. With high incidence and constrained health-system capacity, focusing on reaching underserved populations with vaccination and screening can dramatically reduce deaths, suffering and financial hardship. The global strategy supports national programmes in such countries to scale up access and integrate services into primary healthcare. As this global day emphasises,in the drive to eliminate cervical cancer.World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day 2025 is more than a calendar event- it is a rallying cry. The tools exist. The targets are clear. The commitment is global. What remains is sustained action, across all levels, to ensure that no woman dies of a preventable disease simply because she lacked access. On 17 November, let us all commit one act, whether it is scheduling a screening, vaccinating a daughter, supporting a local awareness event, or advocating for policy change. Together, we can turn the promise of elimination into reality.Source-Medindia
COP30 report finds nations favor land-based carbon removal over real emission cuts, risking progress on global climate goals.

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COP30 climate pledges favour land-based carbon removal over emission cuts



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TOP INSIGHT A new analysis of national climate plans reveals a dangerous trend: countries are failing to halt #deforestation and are instead relying on unrealistic #carbonremoval schemes. We need real #emissions cuts and forest protection, not land-hungry promises. #COP30 #ClimateCrisis #EnvironmentalHealth #LandGapReport

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Relying on Tree-Planting Alone Wont Offset Forest Carbon Losses

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Land Gap 2025: Why Countries Overestimate Land-Based Carbon Solutions

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Unveiling the Land and Forest Gaps in Global Climate Pledges

COP30 climate pledges favour land-based carbon removal over emission cuts - (https://www.unimelb.edu.au/newsroom/news/2025/november/cop30-climate-pledges-favour-land-based-carbon-removal-over-emission-cuts)

A new analysis of national climate strategies, unveiled today at the COP30 summit in Brazil, reveals a troubling global trend:).Instead of prioritizing proven, land-based solutions, many governments are increasingly leaning on unrealisticthat cannot compensate for the massive carbon losses caused by ongoing forest destruction.The report warns that these paper solutions risk diverting attention, funding, and political will away from the hard but essential work of protecting existing forests, which remain one of the worlds most effective natural defenses against climate change Theled by the University of Melbourne alongside a global consortium of experts, explains why countries are relying on impractical levels of land-based efforts to achieve net-zero emissions, rather than pursuing more realistic climate solutions that involve protecting existing forests and phasing out fossil fuels While forest advocates often link the lack of action to a lack of finance for forest protection, authors say the real impediment is a global system that pits economic development against preservation.Lead author, University of Melbourne Dr. Kate Dooley, explained the new report outlines a series of reforms, many of which are already underway, that can resolve this fundamental conflict and align critical climate and biodiversity goals with economic goals.Why are so many countries ignoring forest protection as a key pillar of climate targets? The answer is that they live in a world where heavy sovereign debt burdens and industry-friendly tax and trade policies force many of them to exploit forests to keep their economies from crashing, Dr Dooley said.Yet the bitter irony is that, over the long-term,job opportunities and ecosystem services they provide.The 2025 Land Gap covers climate pledges from all countries, with updates based on new submissions to the United Nations climate secretariat leading up to COP30 (as of Oct 31, 2025), including climate plans known as nationally determined contributions, or NDCs, and long-term strategies for 2050.The report identified two essential flaws in national climate plans submitted for COP30.Firstly, a land gap between governments reliance on land to achieve their carbon mitigation goals and what is achievable, and secondly, a forest gap between global commitments to halt deforestation and forest degradation by 2030 and the likely outcomes of country pledges.The report focuses on country pledges to useand bioenergy capture and storage projects, to meet obligations under the 2015 Paris Agreement.It warns the land required to achieve such levels of carbon removal would put lands critical to marginalized groups at risk, like Indigenous Peoples, local communities and smallholder farmers.Thewith another 16 million hectares of forests being degraded  a forest gap of 20 million hectares.Dr Dooley said it was hugely disappointing to see that less than 40 per cent of parties to the Paris Agreement submitted a new climate plan and that pledges for reducing emissions through halting and reversing deforestation and degradation were limited in national plans.This reflects that countries have not been ambitious enough in their pledges to meet the Paris Agreement of a 1.5C warming threshold, and are now relying on land-based carbon removals which may take decades to materialize, Dr Dooley explained.The researchers found that countries would have to devote just over one billion hectares of land  an area larger than the size of Australia  to carbon removal to achieve their targets. This represents a slight increase compared to the Land Gap 2022 report.Co-author and Senior Research Analyst at Climate Resource Dr Alister Self said based on current assessments, best estimates of future rises in global temperature are between 1.8C 2.0C above pre-industrial levels.This is only if countries meet their emissions targets on time and in full, and do not backslide further on current policy commitments, in which case these estimates would rise further, Dr Self said.Source-Eurekalert
The Kapoor family, often regarded as Bollywoods royal lineage, has its roots in the legacy of Prithviraj Kapoor. Over the decades, the dynasty expanded through the contributions of cinema icon Raj Kapoor, followed by his sons Randhir, Rishi and Rajeev and later, his grandchildren Karisma, Kareena and Ranbir, all of whom built illustrious careers in the industry. The extended family tree also includes Rishi Kapoors wife, Neetu Kapoor, and Shashi Kapoors grandson, Zahan Kapoor, both of whom are active in the film industry today. Now, this celebrated khandaan comes together on screen for Netflixs new special Dining With the Kapoors, unveiled through a heartwarming trailer. Interestingly, one face missing from the preview is Alia Bhatt, who is married to Ranbir Kapoor.

 Netflix The trailer begins with Kareena Kapoor Khan summing up her family in three words, funny, loving, united, while also poking fun at their collective obsession with food. The gathering, viewers are told, has been thoughtfully organised by Armaan Jain to mark Raj Kapoors 100th birth anniversary, making it a tribute filled with nostalgia and emotion.

The footage captures a lively, festive atmosphere. Ranbir Kapoor and Armaan Jain are seen messing around in the kitchen, while the dining table becomes a stage for the family's typical banter. Kareena becomes the centre of good-natured teasing for indulging too much in the meal and Aadar Jain humorously calls out her fondness for Bollywood gossip. In a funny blink-and-miss moment, Karisma Kapoor accidentally spills something she wasnt supposed to and immediately requests the cameraman to stop recording.
Anand L Rai recently dropped the trailer for his much-awaited movie Tere Ishk Mein, where Dhanush is an angry, heartbroken lover who is looking for salvation. Tere Ishk Mein Trailer The trailer of Tere Ishk Mein begins with a man introducing Dhanush as Shiv, a Flight Lieutenant, setting an intense tone right from the first frame. Kriti Sanon appears next with her eyes brimming with tears, as she confronts him, saying, Still aggressive, still hungry. You love this image of yours, dont you? As Dhanushs character breaks down, the story rewinds to their college years, shifting into a flashback.

 T-Series There, Shiv is caught in the middle of yet another brawl when Kriti shouts, Stop it!, a moment that marks the beginning of their complicated romance. In a trademark Dhanush charm-laced line, he quips, If a girl this gorgeous raises her hand, it deserves to land on somebodys cheek. Playing into the classic opposites-attract storyline, Kriti tells him confidently, I could turn you into a nice, non-violent kind of guy. But Shiv pushes back with a warning disguised as humour: Why are you bent on ruining a young mans life, madam? If I fall in love, Ill burn down the city of Delhi. Aanand L Rai then weaves together a montage underscored by Kritis introspective voiceover: Girls dream of finding their prince charming. Even in love, they try to stay logical. She continues, And I didnt know how to explain that to him.

 T-Series Just when their relationship seems to teeter between chaos and magnetic pull, the tone abruptly shifts. From Kriti eagerly suggesting, Lets quickly get married, we move to her candidly admitting, I know the psychology of guys like him. When they see a girl in her wedding dress, they leave. What follows is a descent into madness; Dhanushs character, bloodied and injured, is seen torching what looks like a wedding venue as he roars, I told you, if I fall in love, I will burn down the city of Delhi! He even storms into her haldi ceremony, driven by unhinged passion.

 T-Series Rai then gives a chilling peek into Shivs darker impulses. In a threatening tone, Dhanush declares, You will die, Pandit. Love will only lead you to death, not salvation. He adds, Dont chase Mukti. Burn in your love so fiercely that she falls at your feet and begs: Please accept me. Its no coincidence that Kritis character is named Mukti.
Actors Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa have welcomed their first child, a baby girl, marking a joyous new chapter in their lives. The couple announced the happy news on Saturday, November 15, revealing that their daughter arrived on a day already special to them, their wedding anniversary. They shared the update with fans on social media, posting an image that featured a heartfelt note from the new parents. We are over the moon. God has blessed us with a baby girl, the message read. In the caption, Rajkummar and Patralekhaa expressed their gratitude and emotion, writing, The greatest blessing God has given us on our 4th wedding anniversary.

 Instagram/Rajkummar Rao The announcement was met with love and congratulatory messages from fans and colleagues across the film industry.

Actor Ali Fazal was among the first to react to the announcement, jumping into the comments section to share his excitement. He wrote, Oh my god! So happy to hear this. Congratulations to you two beautiful people. Mubaarak. Filmmaker Farah Khan also joined in with her trademark humour, commenting, Yoooohooooo!! Best news! Im going to be the fun aunt . Several other celebrities, including Sonam Kapoor, Neha Dhupia and Vaani Kapoor, extended their warm wishes and congratulated the new parents on their milestone moment.

 Instagram/Rajkummar Rao Rajkummar Rao & Patralekhaas Chemistry Rajkummar and Patralekhaa have always been open about their journey together, often sharing anecdotes about the early days of their relationship. In a recent conversation on Raunaq Rajanis YouTube show, Rajkummar revisited one such personal moment that revealed how protective he is of his wife. He recounted an incident involving a cook they had hired. Initially, Rajkummar was impressed with the mans culinary skills, especially a great Mexican platter he had prepared. However, within a couple of days, Patralekhaa confided in him that the cooks behaviour toward her felt dismissive and uncomfortable.
Europe. Photo by BeInCrypto

The Czech National Bank (CNB) has entered the digital asset market for the first time on Thursday, allocating $1 million to build a blockchain-based pilot portfolio. This acquisition was conducted separately from the banks official international reserves.

The CNB emphasized that it has no intention of adding Bitcoin or other digital assets to its official international reserves. Instead, it made this move to prepare for a future in which digital currencies are more widely used.

Czechia Launches Pilot Crypto Portfolio

Along with its Bitcoin exposure, the CNBs pilot portfolio will also hold a USD-denominated stablecoin and a tokenized deposit recorded on the blockchain.

The bank noted that the size of this portfolio will remain fixed. Its goal is to gain hands-on experience managing digital assets.

The CNB will examine how to manage private keys and set up multi-level approvals. It will also conduct crisis simulations, review security procedures, and verify compliance with AML regulations.

https://twitter.com/CNB_cz/status/1988940072742191344?s=20

The board approved the purchase last month after reviewing an analysis exploring potential investments outside traditional asset classes. That report concluded that digital assets are developing rapidly and are likely to see broader adoption over time.

"The aim was to test decentralised bitcoin from the central banks perspective and to evaluate its potential role in diversifying our reserves," said CNB Governor Ales Michl in a press release.

Although the move may seem small in scale, it carries wider significance.

CNB Pushes Forward Despite ECB Pushback

Central banks rarely buy digital assets directly, and the CNBs decision signals a shift toward hands-on understanding rather than theoretical observation. The pilot does not signal a change in reserve strategy, but it does show that the bank wants to build internal expertise before digital assets become mainstream in payments.

The CNBs decision comes shortly after Luxembourgs sovereign wealth fund disclosed that it had allocated one percent of its portfolio to Bitcoin-based securities. That move made Luxembourg the first European country to take such a step.

The CNBs announcement now shows that Luxembourg wasnt the only member state exploring direct exposure to digital assets.

https://twitter.com/subjectiveviews/status/1884974914312032664?s=20

Czechias decision came as something of a surprise. In January, the CNB announced that it was considering adding Bitcoin as a reserve asset. Just one day later, European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde dismissed the idea, stating firmly that Bitcoin had no place in the European central banking system.
Mumbai Polices Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC) has busted a large drug racket allegedly linked to underworld figure Dawood Ibrahim and several Bollywood personalities have emerged during the probe, according to a PTI report. Names currently under scrutiny include rapper Loka, actor Shraddha Kapoor, socialite Orry, and filmmaker duo AbbasMustan. Zeeshan Siddiqui, son of Baba Siddique, who was shot dead in October 2024, has also been mentioned.

 Instagram/Shraddha Kapoor The racket is said to have been operated by fugitive trafficker Salim Dola, a Dawood aide who handled the network from Dubai. As per police sources, he supplied mephedrone (also known as M-Cat or Meow Meow) across multiple Indian states and even exported it abroad. His son, Taher Dola, was extradited from the UAE in August, and he has reportedly provided crucial leads to investigators. An India Today report notes that Taher told authorities that actors, models, rappers, filmmakers and even acquaintances of Dawood attended drug parties he organised both in India and overseas. The remand note states that Taher not only put these events together but also distributed drugs there. The police are now expanding their investigation into the network and everyone connected to it.

 Nora Fatehi The said accused has previously organised drug parties in the country and abroad with Alisha Parkar, Nora Fatehi, Shraddha Kapoor and her brother Siddharth Kapoor, Zishan Siddiqui, Ori alias Orhan, Abbas Mastaan, Loka and many other people and has himself joined in them and is supplying drugs to these and other people, media outlets quoted from the remand document. Interestingly, Shraddha Kapoor portrayed Dawood Ibrahims sister Haseena Parkar in a 2017 film directed by Apoorva Lakhia, with her real-life brother Siddharth Kapoor playing Dawood in the same movie. Lavish Parties Mohammed Salim Mohammed Suhail Shaikh, who was deported from Dubai in October, is also being held by the ANCs Ghatkopar unit. PTI reports that during interrogation, he confessed to hosting drug-fuelled parties in India and abroad.
Senators Want Answers From Coast Guard on How it Probes Displays of Swastikas or Other Hate Symbols

Sen. Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., warned that relaxing policies aimed at fighting hate crimes not only sends the wrong message to...
Occidental Petroleum recently raised its fourth-quarter 2025 production guidance to a midpoint of 1.46 million barrels of oil equivalent per day, citing continued strong output across all three domestic assets, which is expected to offset scheduled maintenance at Al Hosn.

This production outlook comes shortly after Occidental reported that third-quarter results exceeded previous production guidance, highlighting resilient operational execution despite year-over-year declines in both sales and earnings.

We'll explore how Occidental Petroleum's raised production outlook shapes the companys investment narrative and signals ongoing operational strength.

The best AI stocks today may lie beyond giants like Nvidia and Microsoft. Find the next big opportunity with these 24 smaller AI-focused companies with strong growth potential through early-stage innovation in machine learning, automation, and data intelligence that could fund your retirement.

Occidental Petroleum Investment Narrative Recap

For shareholders of Occidental Petroleum, the core investment argument rests on belief in robust global oil demand and the companys ability to capitalize on production efficiency and cost control. The recent lift in fourth-quarter 2025 production guidance is a positive operational update, but it does not meaningfully alter the persistent risk that Occidentals performance remains tightly coupled to the volatility of oil prices and the pace of energy transition policies.

Among the latest developments, Occidentals confirmed quarterly dividend of US$0.24 per share stands out. This announcement is relevant as it signals continued management confidence in cash flows, supporting the short-term catalyst of operational execution and returns to shareholders, despite the ongoing pressures of a capital-intensive business and fluctuating earnings.

However, with continued market optimism comes the inevitable question about how Occidental will manage...

Read the full narrative on Occidental Petroleum (it's free!)

Occidental Petroleum's outlook foresees $29.0 billion in revenue and $3.7 billion in earnings by 2028. This is based on an anticipated 2.2% annual revenue growth rate and a $2.0 billion increase in earnings from the current level of $1.7 billion.

Uncover how Occidental Petroleum's forecasts yield a $49.91 fair value, a 17% upside to its current price.

Exploring Other Perspectives

OXY Community Fair Values as at Nov 2025

Simply Wall St Community members have estimated fair values for Occidental Petroleum ranging from US$31.19 to US$67.67 across 26 perspectives. While beliefs about future returns are diverse, the companys significant exposure to oil price swings means broader industry and policy shifts will likely shape long-term outcomes. Explore several viewpoints to see how your outlook compares.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP)  Ely Samuel Parker, a Seneca leader and Civil War officer who served in President Ulysses S. Grants cabinet, was posthumously admitted Friday to the New York State Bar, an achievement denied him in life because he was Native American.

His admission inside a ceremonial courtroom in Buffalo 130 years after his death followed a yearslong effort by his descendants, who saw bitter irony in the fact that an important figure in U.S. history was never seen as a U.S. citizen, then a requirement to practice law.

Today ... we correct that injustice, Melissa Parker Leonard, a great-great-great-grandniece of Parkers, said to an audience that included robed judges from several New York courts. We acknowledge that the failure was never his. It was the law itself.

Parker was at Grant's side for Gen. Robert E. Lee's 1865 surrender at the Appomattox, Virginia, courthouse, where he was tasked with writing out the final terms that the generals signed. Grant later chose Parker, by then a brigadier general, to be commissioner of Indian Affairs, making him the first Native American to serve in the position.

He is also the first Native American to be posthumously admitted to the bar, said retired Judge John Browning, who worked on the application.

Even a cursory review of his biography will show that Mr. Parker was not only clearly qualified for admission to the bar, but he in fact exemplified the best and highest ideals of the legal profession that the bar represents, Judge Gerald Whalen, the presiding justice of the 4th Appellate Division, said before finalizing the admission.

Parker was born on the Seneca Nation of Indians' Tonawanda reservation outside Buffalo in 1828. He was educated at a Baptist mission school, where he went by Ely Samuel Parker instead of his Seneca name, Hasanoanda, and studied law at a firm in Ellicottville, New York. His admission to the bar was denied at a time when only natural-born or naturalized citizens could be admitted.

Native Americans were granted citizenship in 1924.

Today is Elys triumph, but it is also all of ours, too," said Lee Redeye, deputy counsel for the Seneca Nation of Indians, "for we stand victorious over the prejudice of the past.

Unable to practice law, Parker became a civil engineer but continued to use his legal training to help the Seneca defend their land, partnering with attorney John Martindale to win victories in the New York Court of Appeals and U.S. Supreme Court.

But he is most widely recognized for his Civil War service, first serving as Grant's military secretary. Parker and Grant had met and become friends in Galena, Illinois, where Grant had a home and where Parker, then an engineer for the U.S. Treasury Department, was supervising construction of a federal building.

Parker died in 1895 and is buried in Buffalo's Forest Lawn Cemetery.

This moment is deeply personal for our family. It allows Ely to rest in the knowledge that he did his best, Leonard said Friday, and that his best changed the course of our history.
A final salute echoed through a Michigan funeral home today for Nicholas John Acker, the Air Force veteran found dead inside a mail-handling machine at a U.S. Postal Service distribution center. The 36-year-old had been building a new life with his fiancee when a routine shift turned into a tragedy.

Acker disappeared during his overnight shift Nov. 8 and was later found inside a mail-handling machine at the Detroit Network Distribution Center, a major USPS processing hub in Allen Park, Michigan. Investigators are examining how a worker could remain inside equipment for so long without anyone noticinga gap that has become the focus of growing frustration over oversight and safety at the federal facility.

His obituary from Voran Funeral Home, also in Allen Park, said he was someone whose kindness touched everyone who knew him. He proposed to his fiancee during a trip to Chicago two weeks earlier and he had recently bought a home.

A Nine-Hour Gap

Ackers fiancee reported him missing after he failed to return home from his overnight shift. She called hospitals and police departments before driving to the facility, where she struggled to get information from security staff.

He was just basically missing at first, his father, Gary Acker, told Military.com. His fiancee was looking for him. She went to the front gate and nobody was helping her.

U.S. Postal Service trucks park outside a post office in Wheeling, Ill., Monday, Jan. 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, File)

Hours passed before anyone inside the Detroit Network Distribution Center realized the veteran had not clocked out.

His shift was over at 7:30 in the morning and it took to 1 oclock to even know that he was there, his father said.

A Life of Service and Hard Work

Acker enlisted in the Air Force at 26 and became an F-16 mechanic who deployed to Turkey, Kuwait, South Korea and several stateside bases.

I was very proud of the young man, his father said. He was my baby. He was serving his country.

After leaving the service, Acker joined the Postal Service facility and developed a reputation for taking on difficult tasks without complaint.

They say he is the best worker there, his father said. Maybe if other people would do their job they would not have even had him working there.

Officials Respond as Questions Grow

Ackers father said the family heard almost nothing directly from the Postal Service in the days after his death, a silence that added to their shock and grief.

Nobody has really called me from the post office, he told Military.com. I think they should have called me immediately. They should have grieved with me a little bit.

USPS released a written statement to Military.com addressing the incident.

The Postal Service is deeply saddened by the loss of life suffered recently involving our postal employee. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this time, spokesperson Xavier Hernandez said in an emailed statement. This incident remains under investigation by OSHA and the Postal Service is fully cooperating.

MIOSHA and Allen Park Police did not return requests for comment.

A sign stands outside the U.S. Department of Labor's headquarters, May 6, 2020, in Washington. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File)

What Investigators Will Review

State safety inspectors follow MIOSHA and OSHA protocols when reviewing industrial fatalities. Their process typically includes examining whether the machine should have been running, whether lockout and tagout procedures were followed, and whether monitoring was adequate. Investigators also review staffing levels, training records, maintenance logs and any alarms or sensors on the equipment, and also interview workers to establish the timeline.

A Fathers Lasting Memory

Ackers father said one image will stay with him forever.

One picture of him on his motorcycle made me really happy, he said. I am going to do something on my motorcycle and put him on it. He can ride with me.

He said the turnout at the funeral showed how many people his son touched.

There is a lot more people coming in and out than I ever thought, he said. Everywhere I go somebody knew him or knows somebody that knows him.

A GoFundMe campaign created to support Ackers fiancee calls the loss "heartbreaking" and says he was the light of her life.
How Hollywood Has Rewritten the American Revolution

From Silent-Era Myths to Prestige TV, Heres How Americas Founding Conflict Has Been Portrayed on Screen

The big ideas of the Revolution arent diminished by telling the truth. Theyre made stronger by it.  Ken Burns.

Soldiers take aim in D. W. Griffiths America (1924), photo made available under the public domain.

For over a century, filmmakers and television producers have tried to bring the American Revolution to life. But how accurate are these portrayals? And what do they say about the eras in which they were made? From silent film spectacles to Oscar-winning miniseries, depictions of the Revolutionary War have evolved from patriotic propaganda to complex human drama.

A still from the 1917 silent film The Spirit of '76, featuring Adda Gleason Howard Gaye, used under fair use and the public domain.

The Silent Era (1910s1920s): Patriotism in Black and White

The first cinematic takes on the American Revolution focused more on patriotic mythmaking than historical truth. The Spirit of 76 (1917) depicted the colonists as flawless heroes and British soldiers as cartoon villains. Its portrayal of the opposition was so controversial that it became banned during WWI for its anti-British stance. D.W. Griffiths America (1924) turned the Revolution into a melodramatic spectacle. These films served as morale boosters and reflected a country eager to see itself as righteous and united.

The black-and-white image features several cast members of 'The Howards of Virginia' (1940), including Cary Grant, Martha Scott, Cedric Hardwicke, and Dickie Jones. Copyright held by Columbia Pictures and Frank Lloyd Productions.

Golden Age Hollywood (1930s1950s): Romance, Frontier, and Family

Hollywood began experimenting with Technicolor period pieces that brought Revolutionary-era settings to life with greater visual realismat least. Films like Drums Along the Mohawk (1939) and The Howards of Virginia (1940) offered exciting frontier action, whereas Johnny Tremain (1957) turned the Revolution into a coming-of-age story for younger viewers. Still, these works rarely interrogated the founding ideals or included the perspectives of Native Americans, enslaved people, or Loyalists.

This image is from the 1976 PBS television miniseries, The Adams Chronicles. Copyright held by Thirteen / WNET and distributed by PBS.

Bicentennial Television Boom (1960s1970s): Founders on the Small Screen

The approach of the U.S. Bicentennial in 1976 spurred a wave of celebratory programming. The Adams Chronicles (1976) followed four generations of the Adams family and helped elevate John Adams role in the nations founding. 1776, a musical turned film (1972), delivered a patriotic and comedic take on the Second Continental Congress. Though the portrayals were respectful, even reverential, and emphasized civic virtue over internal divisions, their ultimate aim was to educate and inspire national pride.

This image is from the 1984 television miniseries George Washington, which chronicles the life of the first U.S. President. The actor on the right is Barry Bostwick, who plays George Washington, and the actor on the left is Viggo Mortensen. Copyright held by David Gerber Productions and MGM/UA Television, used under fair use.

Realism and Complexity (1980s1990s): Grit and Moral Ambiguity

Portrayals of the Revolution began to mature as cinema matured. April Morning (1988) offered a visceral take on the Battle of Lexington, seen through the eyes of a teenage boy forced into war. Then there is Mary Sillimans War (1994), which focuses on the emotional and psychological toll the war takes on women left behind. CBSs George Washington miniseries presented the first president with greater complexity and inner conflict than viewers were used to at the time. With these productions, movie makers began to peel back the heroism and explore class struggles, colonial dissent, and Native alliances. Though we still hadnt reached a complete, comprehensive look at the war in all its complexity.

Mel Gibson as Benjamin Martin in 'The Patriot,' an epic historical drama film released in 2000. Copyright held by Centropolis Entertainment, Mutual Film Company, and Columbia Pictures, used under fair use.

Modern Era (2000s2020s): Prestige, Diversity, and Dissent

This era ushered in high-production dramas with greater commitment to realismand room for reinterpretation. The Patriot (2000) brought battle scenes to blockbuster scale but was sharply criticized for fabricating atrocities and omitting slavery altogether. In contrast, HBOs John Adams (2008), an adaptation of David McCullough's Pulitzer Prize-winning book, earned 13 Emmys for its meticulous attention to character and historical accuracy. Paul Giamattis performance as the irritable but brilliant Adams, paired with Laura Linneys powerful turn as Abigail, offered a grounded portrait of one of the founding fathers whod gotten short shrift by history.

Paul Giamatti and Laura Linney as John and Abigail Adams in HBO's 2008 critically acclaimed miniseries. Copyright held by HBO, used under fair use.

AMCs TURN: Washingtons Spies (201417) added espionage and psychological warfare to the narrative. Meanwhile, Lin-Manuel Mirandas Hamilton (2020) (streaming with a Disney+ subscription) reframed the Founders through modern musical theater and color-conscious casting, becoming a national phenomenon. The cast even performed for President Obama as he prepared to leave office. This take invited new audiences while sparking debates about historical erasure.

Ken Burns The American Revolution: A New Benchmark

Ken Burns upcoming PBS documentary The American Revolution (2025), airing across six nights beginning on November 16, may be the most ambitious take yet. Spanning six episodes and twelve hours, it tells the story not just as a war for independence but as a civil war and a world war. Burns version focuses on the complexity of command, while putting the suffering of the common soldier at the story's forefront. We also, for nearly the first time, see the massive roles played by Native peoples, Black Americans, women, and Loyalists.

The American Revolution (2025). Cinematographer Buddy Squires films on location at Monmouth Battlefield with re-enactors; photo credit: Mike Doyle. Image made available by Florentine Films.

Burns frames the war as both inspirational and hypocritical, a gamble for liberty that excluded many. With voice performances by nearly 200 actors (including Paul Giamatti reprising John Adams via letters), and scenes shot at over 100 historic locations, it promises a gritty, multifaceted portrait aimed at both educating and challenging audiences.

What Changed  And Why It Matters

Over the last century, depictions of the American Revolution have transformed dramatically. While early depictions of the founding of the United States were driven by nationalism and simplicity, modern portrayals now reflect a more realistic look at the complexity of the moment in history. Many modern depictions focus on:

Cultural Introspection post-Vietnam and post-9/11.

post-Vietnam and post-9/11. Greater Inclusivity (e.g., roles for women, Black Americans, Loyalists).

(e.g., roles for women, Black Americans, Loyalists). Audience Expectations for depth, conflict, and authenticity.

The American Revolution (2025) cinematographer Buddy Squires films Hessian re-enactors, photo credit: Edgardo Gonzalez. Images made available by Florentine Films.

This shift mirrors how Americans think about their founding. Its no longer just about statuesque heroes, closer to demigods than humans, but now, audiences are seeking more complex, human truths about building a nation.

Final Word

As the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, expect more Revolutionary War films and series to surface. The best among them will balance compelling storytelling with historical integrity. Whether its through Giamattis stubborn John Adams or Lin-Manuel Mirandas lyrical Hamilton, the screen will continue to shape how Americans view their Revolution.

Want to explore more? Check out:
When Ally ONeal left the U.S. Army following a service-related injury, she expected the transition into civilian healthcare to be manageable. Instead, it was a struggle. The transition was actually quite difficult for me, she recalled. I had to go through both VA and private-sector care, and I knew what I wanted  and what I didnt want  based on how it affected me personally. When you go through a bad experience, you dont want other people to have to go through that as well.

That conviction drives ONeal today as the Director of Veterans Affairs at BAYADA Home Health Care, one of the countrys largest home-health and hospice providers. Founded in 1975 by Mark Baiada as RN Home Health Care and later renamed in his honor, BAYADA has grown from a single nurse-led practice into a global organization with more than 30,000 employees. In 2024, the company created the Veterans Affairs office to expand its outreach to former service members through its Salute to Service initiative  a program ONeal helped design to bridge the gaps she once faced herself.

From Military Life to Ministry and Hospice

I come from a family of military veterans and first responders, she said. Service has just been ingrained in my blood. When she left the military, she initially didnt know what to do next. Her calling came unexpectedly after her fathers experience with inadequate care near the end of his life. I didnt really know that I wanted to go into hospice until we had that experience with my dad, she explained. I went to school for pastoral ministry, then took a chaplain position in hospice. Thats how I got my start.

That blend of ministry, personal experience, and military service shaped ONeals belief that home-based care for veterans must go far beyond clinical treatment. When I started shaping the program, I kept thinking, how can we truly advocate for veterans to get the best care and be collaborative? That became the framework for everything we did moving forward.

Building a Culture of Understanding

Through the Salute to Service initiative, ONeal and her team have built a structure that pairs clinical excellence with education and advocacy. One part of that mission is training BAYADAs caregivers to understand military culture and the unique emotional needs that veterans carry. Community-based care often isnt educated on veteran culture, she said. When you walk into a VA hospital, they know that culture, and it shows in the care they give. In community care, if someone doesnt have that education, mistakes can happen. They can miss really important factors about what a veteran needs.

To close that knowledge gap, BAYADA requires its staff to complete courses on firearm safety, suicide prevention, and intervention, as well as a certification through PsychArmor, a nonprofit that trains professionals to work effectively with military populations. Thats where you learn about moral injury, survivors guilt, PTSD, and so many other things, ONeal explained. Its not just about treating symptoms. Its about understanding the person.

Navigating Benefits and Breaking Barriers

BAYADAs veteran programs also tackle a widespread problem: confusion about benefits. Many veterans and families dont realize they can receive VA-funded home- and community-based care through organizations like BAYADA. Theres such a lack of education around benefits navigation, ONeal said. One thing weve been able to do really well is give families a solid foundation of whats out there and guide them through the process. The urgency is especially acute in hospice. In hospice, our individuals are often given a six-month or less prognosis, she noted. Trying to get VA benefits in that short time is nearly impossible, so we think outside the box about what other programs we can connect them to, especially for mental-health support.

Among the most pressing barriers ONeal sees are staffing shortages, lack of continuity of care, and the mental-health stigma that still runs deep in military culture. Continuity of care is heartbreaking, she said. A lot of veterans feel like theyre being pushed into group therapy before theyre ready or having their appointments canceled. That lack of consistency really hurts. Building trust, she added, begins with listening: For our non-veteran staff, it starts with hearing their story and responding in a compassionate way. Thats how you build rapport.

Collaboration With the VA

BAYADA coordinates closely with VA medical centers when veterans receive joint care. ONeal described how her teams meet directly with local VA officials after referrals to discuss each veterans clinical picture. The VA is pushing more into community-based care, so collaboration is key, she said. We want to be an extension of the VAs mission...when they trust us with their veterans, thats a responsibility we take seriously.

For those in rural or isolated areas, BAYADAs broad clinical network helps bridge the gap. We have clinicians all over the map, ONeal said. Telehealth has restrictions in hospice, but we use it wherever possible. The harder part is mental health. Some rural veterans dont want to go in person  or cant. I always recommend Crisis Text Line; its not veteran-specific, but its anonymous, and it can take someone from a hot to a cool moment.

Ally O'Neal is Director of Veterans Affairs at BAYADA Home Health Care (LinkedIn Photo).

Measuring Success and Empowering Families

BAYADA also tracks its impact through comprehensive assessments. When our clinicians do their initial visit, they use a military-history checklist to understand what that veteran needs for personalized care, she said. Its not one-size-fits-all. We pull that data into reports  how many veterans weve served, what their specific needs are, how long they stay under care  and we even break it down by experiences like PTSD or survivors guilt.

To strengthen the organizations perspective, ONeal recently formed an internal Veterans Council that includes representatives from every branch of the military. I only have one perspective, from the Army, she said. So, we have a voting system for program changes. If everyone doesnt agree, we go back, rework it, and make it better.

Family caregivers are a central focus as well. ONeal described how BAYADAs volunteer network assists not just veterans, but the people caring for them. We had a vet-to-vet volunteer who went to help a caregiver who didnt know how to cook and was overwhelmed. They went out, taught them, and gave them a break, she said. We make sure caregivers get connected to resources, too.

Education, Policy, and the Future of Care

She also works to dispel misconceptions about veterans mental health among civilian providers. Some veterans feel uncomfortable with non-veteran providers; they worry they wont be understood, she said. Theres nothing like the camaraderie of talking to another veteran. And the mission-first mindset can delay help-seeking. Its easy for veterans to say, Ive got this family commitment, or I cant focus on myself. We remind them that their mission can be taking care of their own mental health.

When asked about policy changes that could improve care, ONeal pointed to the need for stronger hospice education across healthcare. Theres legislation known as the Palliative Care and Hospice Education and Training Act (PCHETA), she said. If clinicians had better hospice education and veteran-specific training on top of that, it would make a huge difference in how we care for veterans. Right now, those conversations often arent happening in hospitals or nursing facilities. We could change that through education.

Honoring Every Generation

BAYADA also makes sure staff understand the generational differences between veterans. We teach about different war eras, ONeal said. Vietnam veterans, especially, werent welcomed home. We make sure their stories are heard and commemorated. We even send out Friday Veteran Facts companywide so everyone can learn about different eras and lesser-known military holidays.

When asked what she most wants veterans and families to know, her answer was simple. You have the right to choose your own healthcare, she said. Dont think you have to choose between VA care or community care. You can have both."

"The VA does incredible work, and community partners like BAYADA can complement that by offering continuity and care right in your home.

She added that she wishes more veterans knew about private-sector mental-health programs. There are so many great organizations out there, she said, naming Pennsylvanias Battle Borne and its Battle Buddy Response Team as examples. When veterans near the end of life, old wounds can resurface. Its crucial that we wrap our arms around them and make sure they get comprehensive mental healthcare.

For ONeal, the mission remains deeply personal. Service doesnt end when you take off the uniform, she said. It just changes shape. Now, its about making sure every veteran, and every family, gets the care, dignity, and understanding they deserve.
As the saying goes, Never underestimate the power of fitness, and Erica Liermann is a prime example of that message.

Liermann, a veteran of the U.S. Army, joined the military following the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. After multiple deployments, including combat time in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Liermann left the Army, but couldnt shake the emotional and psychological wounds. After being diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, she searched for some type of healthy outlet to overcome her depression.

Army veteran Erica Liermann learned to cope with PTSD from the military through fitness. (Photo from Dub Fitness)

Fitness Came Calling

Working out became her core therapy, and these days, far removed from the Baghdad desert, shes helping others through fitness. Liermann leads classes at Dub Fitness, a gym she established in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, a Philadelphia suburb.

Serving as a military police officer, Liermann was exposed to some nerve-racking moments in the Army.

I was stationed in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, Liermann told CBS News Philadelphia. I was in Korea, I was in Baghdad, Iraq; Al-Asad, Iraq.

Liermann, from Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, is now a mom and is doing well growing her fitness brand. However, she struggled for years with PTSD and crippling anxiety. Like a good soldier, the veteran tried to push her feelings down. It didnt work.

A lot of us just suppress it, which then makes it worse, Liermann said.

Receiving help, she slowly put the fractured pieces of her life back into place. Fitness classes helped blow off steam, and she received financial support via the Military Warriors Foundation and Wells Fargo. Through vehicle donations and mentoring programs, Wells Fargo assists veterans transitioning out of the military.

Attendees power through a workout at Dub Fitness in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. (Photo from Dub Fitness)

Building Strength Through Resilience

The helping hand provided a shot at her post-military dreams.

I feel really fortunate to be here, Liermann said.

Besides gaining physical strength, working out clears the veterans head so she can focus on more important things  providing for others. She knows all types of people struggle with mental health, not just veterans.

People come from all different walks of life, Liermann said. But in here, we are all like one team.

Looking back on her journey, Liermann faced some dark days. Thoughts of taking her own life crept in. I look back and I say it may have saved my life, Liermann said about fitness. Suicide was a thought. I used to think about suicide.

These days, a healthy Liermann hopes she can pass on the value of exercise to the women who come to her gym. Fitness is your strength! Liermann yells as she pushes attendees through a workout.

Liermanns up-tempo, high-energy classes carry a positive vibe. She posts short messages on the walls of her gym to inspire and encourage others.

If you can't beat fear, do it scared, Liermann said. And if you're tired, do it tired.

Its all about finding a way to persevere.

Liermann said shes formed a sisterhood bond with her attendees. She wants her sisters to know they can accomplish anything through strength and empowerment.

If you or someone you know may be experiencing a mental health crisis, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing or texting "988."
However, the economist also said the criteria he's using to determine which states are in a recession is slightly different from what the NBER uses, since the same national economic data isn't available at the state level. Zandi reportedly tried to replicate the NBER's data, but notes that his conclusions are also based on his judgment.

While Zandi did emphasize that the U.S. is not in a recession just yet, he told MarketWatch that "were on the precipice, blaming much of the problem on President Donald Trumps tariffs and federal job cuts.

If either of these two state economies takes a turn for the worse, it could flip the entire U.S. economy into a recession, according to Zandi.

Zandi also said California and New York are two states that are treading water  meaning they're not currently in a recession, but they're also not experiencing economic growth.

Some of these states share similar struggles: slumping farm economies and slowing manufacturing industries. In general, according to Zandi, any state that has an economy that centers on goods-producing activities, agriculture, light manufacturing or mining is not doing well at the moment.

The states that Zandi believes are in recession are: Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington, Washington, D.C., West Virginia and Wyoming.

And while that sounds ominous, the good news is there are steps you can take to gear up for a potential economic decline.

In a recent MarketWatch report, Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moodys Analytics, said 22 of Americas 50 states  as well as the District of Columbia  are already in a recession, and if certain states start experiencing their own declines in growth, it could tip the entire country into a broad economic slump (2).

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In practice, a recession is generally defined as at least two consecutive quarters of a decrease in gross domestic product (1), and the U.S. is edging closer to fulfilling this dictionary definition.

The National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) defines a recession as a "significant decline in economic activity that is spread across the economy and that lasts more than a few months."

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Its important to keep that in mind while reading Zandis assessments. But since he is an economic expert, Zandi's concerns shouldnt be quickly dismissed.

Trending: Warren Buffett used 8 simple money rules to turn $9,800 into a stunning $150B  start using them today to get rich (and then stay rich)

How to prepare for a recession

While there's no need to panic just yet, it's also a good idea to get yourself prepared in case the country does fall into a recession.

Given that many states are experiencing an economic slow down, it may only be a matter of time until other states start to feel the pain as well. And if consumer spending declines as a whole, the entire country could find itself in an economic downturn within the coming months.

That's why it's important to prepare yourself financially. Here are a few things to focus on as you get started.

Emergency fund

As a general rule of thumb, its a good idea to have at least three months worth of expenses in an emergency fund, though most experts recommend at least six months' worth of expenses.

That way, if youre faced with an emergency expense  or if you happen to lose your job  youd have the means to pay the bills without dipping into your savings or going into debt. In January, 2025, a U.S. News & World Report article revealed that 42% of Americans dont have an emergency fund (3).

If youre in that boat, you can get one started by setting up a budget so you can carefully track your spending and free up some money. Then, you can set up a high-yield account to stash your emergency funds  this will allow you to earn interest as you go.

A high-yield account, such as a Wealthfront Cash Account, can be a great place to grow your emergency funds, offering both competitive interest rates and easy access to your cash when you need it.

A Wealthfront Cash Account can provide a base variable APY of 3.50%, but new clients can get a 0.65% boost over their first three months for a total APY of 4.15% provided by program banks on your uninvested cash. Thats over nine times the national deposit savings rate, according to the FDICs October report.

With no minimum balances or account fees, as well as 24/7 withdrawals and free domestic wire transfers, you can ensure your funds remain accessible at all times. Plus, Wealthfront Cash Account balances of up to $8 million are insured by the FDIC through program banks.

Pay off debt

Your next step in preparing for a recession should be paying off any high-interest debt you might have. If you happen to lose your job during an economic downturn, the less money you owe to credit card companies or car payments, the better.

Furthermore, paying off debt could boost your credit score, making it easier to borrow money in the event that you get laid off and need a loan to tide yourself over until youre working again. According to Experian, the average U.S. credit score is 715 (4).

If yours is considerably lower, you might want to make an effort to pay your bills on time and reduce credit card balances as much as you can. A higher credit score could give you more options during a recession, even if you dont end up trying to borrow money.

For example, if you decide to move during an economic downturn, a landlord is more likely to approve your rental application if you have a strong credit score.

Diversify your income

Another thing you can do is try to pick up some extra work and potentially establish a side hustle. According to Hostinger, 36% of Americans have a side job, and the average side hustler brings in an average of $530 in extra cash every month (5).

If you can pick up a side job to earn some extra money, you can increase your cash flow to make building your emergency savings a little easier. A side hustle can also come in handy if you happen to lose your job during a recession  you may be able to increase your hours at that gig for more income as you look for another full-time job.

You may also want to look into alternative asset investments. Stock markets tend to fall during a recession. So it could be worth assessing other ways to grow your money  such as through real estate, gold and art.

While these investments can be riskier, meaning you have a greater potential of losing your money, they can also come with greater reward potential.

These investments can also be easier than you may think. For instance, you dont need to buy a property and deal with the headaches of being a landlord in order to make money off of real estate.

Mogul is a real estate investment platform offering fractional ownership in blue-chip rental properties, which gives investors monthly rental income, real-time appreciation and tax benefits  without the need for a hefty down payment or midnight maintenance calls.

Founded by former Goldman Sachs real estate investors, the team hand-picks the top 1% of single-family rental homes nationwide for you. Simply put, you can invest in institutional-quality offerings for a fraction of the usual cost.

Each property undergoes a vetting process, requiring a minimum 12% return even in downside scenarios. Across the board, the platform features an average annual IRR of 18.8%. Their cash-on-cash yields, meanwhile, average between 10 to 12% annually. Offerings often sell out in under three hours, with investments typically ranging between $15,000 and $40,000 per property.

Every investment is secured by real assets, not dependent on the platforms viability. Each property is held in a standalone Propco LLC, so investors own the property  not the platform. Blockchain-based fractionalization adds a layer of safety, ensuring a permanent, verifiable record of each stake.

Then theres gold: a popular safe-haven asset during economic downturns and stock market volatility.

Gold has had a record year, continually exceeding its highest ever recorded price. One way to invest in gold that also provides significant tax advantages is to open a gold IRA with the help of Thor Metals.

Gold IRAs allow investors to hold physical gold or gold-related assets within a retirement account, which combines the tax advantages of an IRA with the protective benefits of investing in gold, making it an attractive option for those looking to potentially hedge their retirement funds against economic uncertainties.

To learn more, you can get a free information guide that includes details on how to get up to $20,000 in free metals on qualifying purchases.

Finally, you could invest in art, which can be recession-resistant as it tends to hold better value and recovers faster than other assets like the stock market.

Masterworks is changing the game for investors with capital on hand, but without strong connections to the art world.

The platform gives you the ability to invest in shares of contemporary art, including paintings by well-known artists like Banksy, Picasso and Basquiat.

As an investor using Masterworks, you can select the fine art you want to invest in  with every piece of artwork vetted by their team of industry experts. Less than 3% of all artwork passes the vetting process, making each investable asset a potentially prime candidate for future appreciation.

While every piece of artwork sold performs differently, out of 23 exits Masterworks has delivered representative annualized returns like 17.6%, 17.8% and 21.5% among assets held longer than a year.

See important Regulation A disclosures at Masterworks.com/cd.

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Article sources

We rely only on vetted sources and credible third-party reporting. For details, see our editorial ethics and guidelines.

Congress.gov (1; MarketWatch (2); US News & World Report (3); Experian (4); Hostinger (5)

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
MACOMB COUNTY, MI  The woman who allegedly stabbed her manager to death while working at a Michigan McDonalds restaurant will face trial.

Afeni Badu Muhammad, a 27-year-old from Eastpointe, was bound over to circuit court today on charges including first-degree murder related to the July 10 stabbing.

Macomb County District Court Judge Kathleen Galen bound Muhammad over on charges of first-degree premeditated murder and carrying a dangerous weapon with unlawful intent.

If convicted, Muhammad could face life in prison without the possibility of parole.

The allegations in this case are unthinkable, an alleged stabbing in a public place that took the life of an innocent individual. The evidence presented to the court was compelling enough to bind this defendant over for trial. Our office is committed to pursuing justice for the victim and sending a clear message that acts of violence in our community will not be tolerated, Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido said in a statement.

It is alleged that Muhammad was sent home from her job before the end of her shift on July 10, 2025. She allegedly returned with a knife, entered the McDonalds restaurant through the employee entrance while wearing a mask and stabbed her manager, Jennifer Harris, multiple times.

A customer in the drive-thru window was lawfully carrying a concealed weapon and fired it in an attempt to stop the assault.

Muhammed fled to her vehicle and was followed by the drive-thru shooter, who held her at gunpoint until Eastpointe Police arrived.

Harris was 39 and a mother of six children.

She is held at the Macomb County Jail on a $25 million cash/surety bond.
North Branch resident Derek Bentley shows his wife Lori the point-count on one of 14 deer strung up on the buck pole on Friday, Nov. 15, 2019 at Ray C's - The Extreme Store in Lapeer Township on the opening day of regular firearm deer hunting season. (Jake May | MLive.com) Jake May | MLive.com

Michigan hunters reported fewer deer during the 2024 regular firearm season compared to the year before, continuing a gradual statewide decline.

But new data show the Upper Peninsula bucked that trend, with many northern counties posting double-digit percentage gains.

According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, hunters statewide reported 136,524 deer harvested during last years two-week firearm season, down from 137,074 in 2023  a 0.4% decrease.

The decline follows several years of relatively steady totals and reflects drops across much of southern and western Michigan.

Counties such as St. Joseph (-47%), Cass (-42%), Oakland (-23%), Kent (-22%), and Van Buren (-20%) saw some of the largest decreases in the state.

The story was different in the Upper Peninsula.

Every county (15) saw an increase. Keweenaw County, Michigans least-populated, more than doubled its total, jumping 77% from 73 to 129 deer. Houghton (+33%), Marquette (+31%) and Dickinson (+28%) also posted major gains.

Statewide, Sanilac County once again led Michigan in total harvest with 4,124 deer, followed by Menominee (3,576) and Newaygo (3,143).

The states firearm season runs Nov. 15 through 30, with extended antlerless hunts in select counties scheduled for early January.

The table, below, shows deer harvest totals from the past two years in every Michigan county.

Additionally, the map below highlights the percent change in deer harvests for every Michigan county between 2023 and 2024. Hover over a county to see how much its total increased or decreased.

The DNR also offers a late antlerless firearm season from Dec. 15 to Jan. 1, 2026, with an extended antlerless season in select counties running Jan. 2 to 11, 2026.

In addition, antlerless deer may be taken during the statewide archery season, which runs Dec. 1 through Jan. 1, 2026.
NOVI, MI - You know her from Road Trip, Rat Race, Just Friends, Varsity Blues, and Starship Troopers. We caught up with actress Amy Smart and talked to her about her move to Michigan.

Smart married HGTVs Carter Oosterhouse, a Traverse City native. She moved to Traverse City about 10 years ago.

Smart is one of the more than three dozen celebrity guests at Motor City Comic Con taking place through Sunday, November 16 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi.

READ MORE: Celebrity pics we captured from Motor City Comic Con

Im a newer Michigander, but I love being here. And I was able to drive here for this con, which is extra cool, Smart told MLive, which you can see in our video interview above.

She added that she loves living in Traverse City as she is surrounded by nature and a great food and wine scene.

In the summertime, the lakes are so beautiful, the wine tasting, the farm stands, sand dunes, all the farmers markets... theyre incredible. The food. I mean, its kind of a great secret that we dont want to tell too many people about (jokingly said) because its so special, but its a beautiful place to go visit.

We also chatted with Smart about starring in Road Trip, Rat Race, and Starship Troopers. You can watch that part of the interview in part two of the video.

This weekends Motor City Comic Con also features a Twilight Reunion with Peter Facinelli, Ashley Greene, Kellan Lutz, and Jackson Rathbone.

Other big guests include: Vincent DOnofrio (Full Metal Jacket), Linda Blair (The Exorcist), Stephen Amell (Arrow), Mike Colter (Luke Cage), Zach Gilford (Friday Night Lights), Hamish Linklater (New Adventures of Old Christine), Skeet Ulrich, Matthew Lillard, Rose McGowan, Jamie Kennedy (Scream).

.... Juliette Lewis (Yellowjackets, Christmas Vacation), Alan Tudyk (Resident Alien, Firefly), Gina Torres (Firefly, Suits) Nicole Sullivan and Phil LaMarr (Mad TV), Sara Tomko (Resident Alien), Brutus The Barber Beefcake (WWE Hall of Famer), Robin Tunney (The Mentalist, Prison Break), John DiMaggio (Futurama), and Casper Van Dien, Dina Meyer, and Michael Ironside (Starship Troopers).
Hunters display their prizes at the buck pole on the opening day of deer season at Jerome Country Market, 8985 E. Chicago Rd. in Jerome on Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023. Jacob Hamilton | jhamilt3@mlive.com

Alarm clocks went off early this morning for opening day of firearm deer hunting season.

Michigan firearm season officially opens at 6:53 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 15 for counties in the Eastern time zone. This is the first time opening day lands on a Saturday since 2014. The starting time moves later each day as the sun rises later.

Ahead of the 2025 season, Michigans venison donation program hit a massive milestone.

More than 560,000 servings of venison were donated to Michigan food banks last year.

This set a new annual record for the Hunters Feeding Michigan program, which connects hunters to processors to food banks.

Hunters can donate their deer at no cost to them. The participating businesses will process the deer, package the protein and distribute venison across Michigan.

Last year 140,000 pounds of donated venison were processed during fiscal year 2024, which ended Sept. 30.

Every year it seems like more hunters choose to donate their harvest to the program, which helps feed even more of our neighbors across the state, said Hunters Feeding Michigan program specialist Joe Presgrove.

I frequently receive calls and letters from the local food pantries thanking the program for providing much needed protein to their communities.

Since 2007, the Hunters Feeding Michigan program has provided more than 3 million servings of protein-rich venison to those in need.

In Michigan, 1 in 6 people face food insecurity, according to Feeding America.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources partners with the Food Bank Council of Michigan and the Feeding America food distribution network to get those meals to Michiganders.

In response to the pause to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits during the government shutdown, Michigan resumed full payments of November food assistance benefits on Nov. 10.

More on Michigan food banks: Food bank official warns efforts to replace SNAP benefits are not sustainable

Deer donations for the Hunters Feed Michigan program are happening in several locations across the state.

Donation Timeslots in November:

Friday, Nov. 21, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 23, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Donation Location:

The firearm season lasts two weeks in Michigan. Additional upcoming harvest periods include late segment archery (Dec. 1- Jan. 1), muzzleloader season (Dec. 5-14) and late antlerless firearm (Dec. 15-Jan. 1).

Donation Timeslots in January:

Saturday, Jan. 3, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Donation Location:

All deer must be whole (with head attached), legally harvested/tagged, harvest-reported and field-dressed prior to donation. All donated venison will be distributed to Michigan food pantries.

There are 13 participating processors across Michigan that accept donations directly. Call ahead before dropping off deer to ensure they will accept your donation. Find the full list of processors here.

Filling the gaps: 40-county Michigan food drive launched in response to SNAP suspension.

The firearm season harvest accounts for about half of all deer taken each year. Last year that number rang in at nearly 180,000 deer during the two-week regular firearm season.

So far in 2025, hunters have taken nearly 95,000 deer, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources dashboard on Nov. 14.

You can report your deer in real time through the DNR Hunt Fish app or at Michigan.gov/DNRHarvestReport .

Legal hunting hours for deer are one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. Those times vary by 6-minute intervals by groups of counties from east to west across the state.

For instance, hunters in the eastern may not shoot deer after 5:40 p.m. on opening day, and that time moves earlier each day as daylight ends sooner.

Those hunting in the Upper Peninsula should note there are a few western U.P. counties in the Central time zone.

The map and table with hunting hours are printed in the deer regulations summary and provided here: 2025 Deer Hunting Regulations Summary.
There are dozens of interactive illusions to experience which will have you not believing your own eyes.

6 days ago
WAYNE COUNTY, MI  A Harper Woods man was bound over to stand trial for allegedly fraudulently obtaining more than $60,000 in COVID-19 relief funds and Paycheck Protection Program loans, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced.

Roy Lee Holt, 57, waived his preliminary examination on Nov. 12 and was bound over to stand trial in Wayne County circuit court, according to a news release from the AGs office.

Holt was charged in July with two counts of false pretenses ($20,000 to $50,000), one count of false pretenses ($1,000 to $20,000), two counts of using a computer to commit a crime and one count of making/permitting a false tax return.

The man allegedly sent a fraudulent bank statement to obtain PPP loans in 2021.

He is accused of receiving more than $41,000 in PPP loans, and an additional $19,880 in COVID Emergency Rental Assistance using allegedly falsified documents.

Cases like this are rare, but we will never let them go unchallenged, said Amy Hovey, CEO and executive director of MSHDA. This investigation reflects the strong collaboration between state and federal partners to ensure that anyone who misuses housing resources, especially CERA funds that were intended for our most vulnerable residents, are brought to justice. Every program dollar we administer is critical to helping end our housing crisis, and MSHDA will continue to pursue these cases wherever they occur to protect the integrity of our work.

Holt is scheduled to appear in Wayne County Circuit Court on Nov. 26.

I would like to thank the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General and MSHDA for their assistance in this investigation, Nessel said in a statement. My office looks forward to continuing to pursue this matter in court to ensure those who defraud loan programs intended to help those in need are held accountable.
OAKLAND COUNTY, MI  A man has been charged criminally after allegedly robbing banks in Ann Arbor and Ferndale, Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald announced Friday.

Alvin Myron Murray, a 68-year-old Detroit man, was charged with bank robbery in Oakland County on Nov. 13, according to court records.

Murray allegedly approached the counter at First Merchant Bank in Ferndale on Nov. 10. He handed the teller a note demanding money, to which the teller complied.

He was later identified by a witness.

The defendant was also identified as the alleged robber in an Ann Arbor bank robbery in October.

Bank robberies endanger employees and customers, McDonald said in a statement. Thanks to law enforcement, the message to this defendant and any other would-be robbers is, you might get away from the scene, but you wont get away with the crime.

Murray was arraigned before Judge James Patrick Brennan in the 43rd District Court on Nov. 14.

If convicted, Murray could face life in prison.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI - An attorney has filed a $10 million lawsuit after being jailed following a confrontation with protesters upset by a mistrial in Patrick Lyoyas killing by former Grand Rapids police officer Christopher Schurr.

John Timothy Klees, a Grand Rapids attorney, sued multiple defendants, including the City of Grand Rapids, Kent County, the county prosecutor, a police officer, and the magistrate, a retired judge.

Related: 5 things we learned during ex-police officer Christopher Schurrs murder trial

He filed the lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan after being charged with malicious destruction of property, a felony, for allegedly damaging a vehicle with an old police baton.

His trial is set for January.

The incident happened on May 8 when protesters gathered outside of the Kent County Courthouse. A judge had declared a mistrial because jurors could not reach a unanimous verdict on a second-degree murder charge against the former officer.

The jurors deadlocked, 10-2 in favor of acquittal. Prosecutor Chris Becker decided not to retry the case.

Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker announces the decision not to retry Christopher Schurr, a former Grand Rapids police officer, in Patrick Lyoyas killing during a press conference on Thursday, May 22 at the Kent County Administration Building in downtown Grand Rapids. Schurr, 34, charged with second-degree murder, stood trial in Kent County Circuit Court but the jury could not reach a unanimous verdict, resulting in a May 8 mistrial. Isaac Ritchey | iritchey@mlive.com

Klees, whose office was near the courthouse, has no personal ties to the case. But he said he had a strong conviction that Schurr, who shot Lyoya in the back of his head after a lengthy struggle, should not have been prosecuted.

He believed that Lyoya, who was Black, was solely to blame for his unfortunate demise in the April 4, 2022, traffic stop by the white officer. He said protesters acted because of Lyoyas race, rather than his conduct.

Lyoya had gained control of Schurrs Taser and tried to flee the former officer.

25 1 / 25 Patrick Lyoya supporters rally in Grand Rapids after no retrial is announced in Christopher Schurr case

Klees was stopped on Ottawa Avenue NW near Lyon Street, just outside the courthouse, when he rolled down his window to suggest they choose their battles more wisely, based on his belief Schurr should not have been charged in the first place. He said that the protests were based solely on shallow/cosmetic appearances of racial motivations  , he said in the lawsuit.

Related: For more coverage of the Lyoya/Schurr case, go here.

He said the protests of the jury decision would do more harm than good to big picture long-term race relations because a certain segment of our society will be more inclined to lump all future protests into the same category as the Underlying Schurr case and dismiss them as similarly unjustified.

In response, he said, a protester repeatedly and loudly asked if he was still having sex with his sister.

He considered the protesters remarks to be fighting words, unlike his own words protected by the First Amendment. He then attempted a left turn before another driver sped up and tossed what appeared to be a large, plastic soft drink cup onto the hood and windshield of his car, the lawsuit said. He considered that incident to be a second use of fighting words.

He got out at the corner. Then, police told him to leave, he said.

Instead of muting the fighting words that Plaintiff received or removing those who expressed them, (Grand Rapids police) ordered Plaintiff to leave, despite Plaintiffs superior constitutional rights to maintain his presence there.

He said he was outside of his vehicle when the alleged trash thrower rammed into his car in such a way to pin/crush Plaintiff between the two vehicles  .

He said that police and Prosecutor Chris Becker, whose office charged Klees with malicious destruction of property, allowed the alleged trash thrower to go free without any charges, despite evidence indicating he initiated a confrontation by throwing trash at him, filed a false police report, committed a felonious assault and battery upon Plaintiff, and tried to kill Plaintiff.

Becker said he was not aware of the lawsuit. A Grand Rapids police spokesperson said in a statement: The City has not yet reviewed this case and does not comment on pending litigation.

A probable-cause affidavit filed in the criminal case said that a man driving a 2025 Honda CR-V flagged down police to report that a man identified as John Klees had just battered his vehicle with a baton and then threatened him with it at Ionia/Lyon St. NW.

The man told police that Klees had followed him in his vehicle then confronted him with the baton, a police baton that once belonged to Klees great-grandfather, a Detroit police officer.

Klees said it had been in his car for a couple of years in a box with old, family possessions.

The other driver stated that John had followed him in his vehicle and then got out and confronted him with the baton. While trying to drive away from John and his baton, (he) accidentally struck Johns vehicle, an officer wrote in the affidavit.

The man pointed out Klees to police, the affidavit said. Klees allegedly told police that he had had troubles with protesters in previous days, and he assumed the man had thrown the plastic cup that hit his car.

Klees followed the man, and confessed to confronting him with the baton and striking the vehicle with it. John led officers to where he had hidden the broken baton behind a pillar in the parking ramp.

In an interview with MLive/The Grand Rapids Press, Klees said he has never been in trouble before.

He expected at the time that he would pay to fix the dents on the other car. He didnt see things escalating to a five-year felony charge that cost him his job. Nor did he expect to file a federal lawsuit.

But he said, he isnt one to back down when he thinks hes right.

Im not wrong for asserting my First Amendment rights, he said.

He asked for $10 million in the lawsuit but said he would likely be satisfied if the prosecutor paid $100,000 himself or resigned. He acknowledged that it is very difficult to sue a prosecutor.

He hopes that surveillance video will help resolve the criminal case, scheduled for trial on Jan. 5 before Kent County Circuit Judge George Quist. Klees has filed a motion to change venue.

On the day of the mistrial, Klees and others at his former office were told to leave early, around 3:30 p.m., in case of trouble. Once the confrontation with the other driver ended, he thought hed have to pay for the dents but both drivers would soon leave.

Instead, he was arrested and taken to the Kent County Correctional Facility.

He wished none of it had happened.

I dont want to be involved in any of this whatsoever. What happened, happened. As far as I was concerned, it was over.
Energy Transfer LP (NYSE:ET) is among the 13 Most Undervalued Stocks Under $20 to Buy. On November 5, the company reported financial results for the third quarter of fiscal 2025.

Energy Transfer LP (ET) Reports Mixed Results For Q3

Revenue declined 3.9% year-over-year to $19.95 billion, while net income was down 13.9% from Q3 FY24 to $1.02 billion, translating to a profit per share of $0.28, which missed expectations by 5 cents.

Adjusted EBITDA stood at $3.84 billion against $3.96 billion in the prior years period. Distributable cash flow was reported at $1.90 billion, dipping from $1.99 billion during the same period last year. Energy Transfer LP (NYSE:ET) said that several one-time items led to the decreases, such as an additional $43 million to settle a prior tax obligation.

Despite the earnings miss, there were plenty of positives from Energy Transfer LP (NYSE:ET)s operational performance during the quarter, with several record volumes, including terminal volumes for NGL and refined products, NGL transportation, NGL exports, and midstream gathering.

During the earnings call, co-CEO Thomas Long also mentioned the companys policy to pursue more long-term contracts with third-parties, which are expected to generate stable revenues at better rates over more extended periods. He disclosed that Energy Transfer LP (NYSE:ET) now has multiple agreements with Oracle to provide natural gas to the latters data centers in the United States.

On November 4, Energy Transfer LP (NYSE:ET) announced a 20-year agreement with Entergy Louisiana to transport natural gas to North Louisiana. The supply will begin in February 2028 and run through January 2048. As part of the deal, the company will transport 250,000 MMBtu per day, with the option to expand capacity to address rising demand.

Energy Transfer LP (NYSE:ET) is a large and diversified midstream energy company in North America, with a strategic footprint across major U.S. production basins.

While we acknowledge the potential of ET 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: ChatGPT Stock Advice: Top 8 Defense Stocks and 10 Largest Defense Stocks in 2025.

Disclosure: None.
Michigans divided Legislature has agreed to require lawmakers to publicly disclose earmark funding requests at least 45 days before a vote on the funding. (Jake May|MLive file photo) ake May|MLive file photo

Michigans divided Legislature has agreed to require lawmakers to publicly disclose earmark funding requests at least 45 days before a vote on the funding.

The compromise legislation between the Democratic-majority Senate and Republican-majority House was passed Thursday, Nov. 13, and awaits Gov. Gretchen Whitmers signature. The deal for earmark funding reform and transparency stemmed from budget negotiations this fall.

House Appropriations Chair Rep. Ann Bollin, R-Brighton Township, spearheaded the earmark transparency reforms and said the legislation ensures taxpayers and lawmakers have enough time to review earmark spending proposals before taxpayer dollars are allocated.

People expect us to protect every tax dollar, and that starts with a budget process they can see, Bollin said. Earlier this year, the House took a strong first step by adopting new transparency rules. Today, we made those protections permanent so no future majority can weaken them out of convenience. This package ensures that Michiganders are not kept in the dark about how their money is being spent.

Earmarks are requested by lawmakers and distributed in the form of grants to a specific nonprofit, business or government for a specific project. The projects funded by earmarks span a wide range, from restoring a historic building to purchasing a fire truck.

The spending has come under scrutiny in recent years amid embezzlement investigations by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. When House Republicans took over the chamber this year, they made earmark reform and transparency a central issue.

If the legislation is signed by Whitmer, all earmark requests from lawmakers must be posted online at least 45 days before a vote on any appropriations bill that would fund the requests. The House initially proposed a 90-day window, and the Senate a 10-day window.

The publicly available information for each earmark request must include: the lawmakers name, the earmark recipients name, the project location, an explanation of the projects public benefit and a conflict-of-interest disclosure.

The changes also prohibit for-profit businesses and newly created nonprofits from receiving earmarks. Bollin said these changes close common loopholes that have hidden questionable spending in the past.

These bills empower taxpayers to hold us accountable, Bollin said. When spending requests are transparent, detailed, and publicly accessible, we get better outcomes, stronger trust and a budget that reflects the priorities of the people we serve.

Nessel is currently prosecuting one earmark embezzlement case and investigating two others.

In the case being prosecuted, Nessel alleged the earmark recipient, David Coker, spent hundreds of thousands of dollars from the earmark to purchase personal vehicles, precious metals, rare coins, firearms accessories and other goods for himself.

The grant money was supposed to go toward building a community health campus intended to serve the physical, mental and behavioral health needs of mid-Michiganders.

Coker is a former legislative aide of former Michigan House Speaker Jason Wentworth, R-Farwell, who sponsored the earmark but has been cleared of any wrongdoing.

Under the new earmark reforms, a lawmaker cannot request an earmark that would benefit someone who currently works for them as a staffer or worked for them as a staffer within the prior two years.

Lawmakers also cannot request an earmark that would benefit themselves or their family members.

Nessel is also investigating a $2 million earmark awarded to a nonprofit run by Gavin Brown, though her office has provided few details. According to Bridge Michigan, Browns grant was to study bringing commercial rocket launches to the state.

The most high-profile case under investigation involves a Whitmer appointee, Fay Beydoun, who allegedly embezzled taxpayer dollars after receiving a $20 million earmark in the states 2022-2023 budget. Those funds were allocated to create a business incubator to attract international entrepreneurs and start-ups to Michigan.

Quarterly reports obtained by MLive through a Freedom of Information Act request showed the nonprofit headed by Beydoun used the taxpayer money on five-star hotel stays, first-class airline tickets, tens of thousands of dollars in furniture purchases, luxury ground transportation services, upscale dining and a $4,500 coffee machine.

Beydoun formed the nonprofit to receive the funds after the legislative earmark was approved. Its a move that would be forbidden under the earmark reforms.
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Rs 30,000-Crore Sunjay Kapur estate feud: Karisma Kapoors daughter tells Delhi HC her US university fees unpaid for two months, call Priya Kapur 'greedy, Cinderella stepmother'

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Karisma Kapur tells Delhi HC her university fee has not been paid for 2 months

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On November 12, 2025, Enova International, Inc. (NYSE:ENVA) announced that its Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program, allowing the company to buy back up to US$400 million of its outstanding common stock through June 30, 2027.

This buyback authorization reflects the Board's confidence in the company's outlook and is often considered by investors as a potential avenue for enhancing shareholder value.

Well explore how this significant share repurchase plan could influence Enova Internationals investment narrative and outlook for investors.

The best AI stocks today may lie beyond giants like Nvidia and Microsoft. Find the next big opportunity with these 25 smaller AI-focused companies with strong growth potential through early-stage innovation in machine learning, automation, and data intelligence that could fund your retirement.

Enova International Investment Narrative Recap

To be a shareholder in Enova International often means believing in the continued growth of digital lending, the company's technology-driven underwriting, and strong demand in both consumer and small business markets. The recently announced US$400 million buyback program may signal confidence, but does not materially alter the most important near-term catalyst, continued revenue and earnings expansion, nor does it offset the ongoing regulatory risks that remain top of mind for the sector.

A key announcement relevant to the current buyback news is Enovas latest earnings report, which showed revenue growth and rising net income year-over-year. While these numbers may reinforce sentiment behind the repurchase plan, the interplay between earnings performance and regulatory headwinds is still a critical element shaping both sentiment and risk assessments for investors in the near term.

By contrast, a potential shift in lending laws could quickly change the risk profile for Enova, something investors should be aware of before...

Read the full narrative on Enova International (it's free!)

Enova International's outlook anticipates $5.7 billion in revenue and $426.8 million in earnings by 2028. This scenario assumes a 60.7% annual revenue growth rate and a $170.6 million increase in earnings from the current $256.2 million.

Uncover how Enova International's forecasts yield a $140.62 fair value, a 12% upside to its current price.

Exploring Other Perspectives

ENVA Community Fair Values as at Nov 2025

Four members of the Simply Wall St Community valued Enova shares between US$64.42 and US$467.73, with estimates clustered across a wide spectrum. Despite this range, regulatory uncertainty remains a widely cited risk across market participants which could significantly affect Enovas performance and is worth comparing in light of these varied forecasts.
The Beast in Me Review: Claire Danes elevates a quiet drama into one of the years most gripping thrillers

Sriva A is a seasoned film critic with a keen eye for storytelling, cinematography, and performances.

Palak Vij

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All five NewJeans members drop legal dispute against Ador: Heres what we know

Palak Vij is a Sub Editor and Entertainment Journalist with over a year of experience covering films, television, and pop culture in the digital space.

Palak Vij

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When Dharmendra revealed he never won any award, said, "Silver, golden jubilee hua, maine suit silwane bandh kar diye, socha kaccha pehenke..."

When Dharmendra revealed he never won any award, said, "Mera silver, golden jubilee hua, maine suit silwane bandh kar diye, socha kaccha pehenke..."

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When Pran revealed he had to punch Kishore Kumar for real, unko kaha tha serious scene hai, shant ho jao but sunn he nahi rhe the"

When Pran revealed he had to punch Kishore Kumar for real, unko kaha tha serious scene hai, shant ho jao but sunn he nahi rhe the"

Vaishnavi Gavankar

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Shailendra Kumar is the Chief Investment Officer at Narnolia Financial Services

Sunil Matkar

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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

Aryaman Gupta

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The company will bring the sunglasses to its online channels and select offline stores

Tamal Nandi

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Generally, when a single insider buys stock, it is usually not a big deal. However, when several insiders are buying, like in the case of Wickes Group plc (LON:WIX), it sends a favourable message to the company's shareholders.

Although we don't think shareholders should simply follow insider transactions, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether.

We've found 21 US stocks that are forecast to pay a dividend yield of over 6% next year. See the full list for free.

Wickes Group Insider Transactions Over The Last Year

In the last twelve months, the biggest single purchase by an insider was when Non-Executive Chairman of the Board Christopher Rogers bought UK63k worth of shares at a price of UK1.76 per share. We do like to see buying, but this purchase was made at well below the current price of UK2.15. Because the shares were purchased at a lower price, this particular buy doesn't tell us much about how insiders feel about the current share price.

In the last twelve months Wickes Group insiders were buying shares, but not selling. You can see a visual depiction of insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last 12 months, below. By clicking on the graph below, you can see the precise details of each insider transaction!

Check out our latest analysis for Wickes Group

LSE:WIX Insider Trading Volume November 15th 2025

There are plenty of other companies that have insiders buying up shares. You probably do not want to miss this free list of undervalued small cap companies that insiders are buying.

Insiders At Wickes Group Have Bought Stock Recently

Over the last three months, we've seen a bit of insider buying at Wickes Group. Independent Non-Executive Director Michael Iddon bought UK30k worth of shares in that time. It's good to see the insider buying, as well as the lack of recent sellers. But the amount invested in the last three months isn't enough for us too put much weight on it, as a single factor.

Insider Ownership

I like to look at how many shares insiders own in a company, to help inform my view of how aligned they are with insiders. A high insider ownership often makes company leadership more mindful of shareholder interests. Our data suggests Wickes Group insiders own 0.4% of the company, worth about UK1.9m. But they may have an indirect interest through a corporate structure that we haven't picked up on. We prefer to see high levels of insider ownership.

So What Do The Wickes Group Insider Transactions Indicate?

Our data shows a little insider buying, but no selling, in the last three months. Overall the buying isn't worth writing home about. But insiders have shown more of an appetite for the stock, over the last year. While we have no worries about the insider transactions, we'd be more comfortable if they owned more Wickes Group stock. While it's good to be aware of what's going on with the insider's ownership and transactions, we make sure to also consider what risks are facing a stock before making any investment decision. You'd be interested to know, that we found 2 warning signs for Wickes Group and we suggest you have a look.
Tamal Nandi

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Congress leader KC Venugopal questions BJPs 90% strike rate in Bihar elections, says never happened in Indian history

Arishaa Izaj

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Dead Drop: The secret email technique Delhi blast suspects used and how it kept their plans off the radar

A shared inbox, unsent drafts, and untraceable apps formed the core of the modules communication network.

Aishwarya Dabhade

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Two FIRs have been filed against Al-Falah University

Ria Kapoor

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Agency says Pakistan-backed operatives used drones, encrypted apps, and couriers to move weapons and heroin across northern India.

Aishwarya Dabhade

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Explained | Delhis first SVBIED attack: Why vehicle-borne suicide bombings are almost impossible to stop

Aishwarya Dabhade

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Harish also urged the Council to adopt measures under the UN80 framework to streamline operations, including the introduction of sunset clauses for outdated mandates.

Deblina Halder

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As a major investment company and financial technology (fintech) platforms fight over access to client retirement accounts, some customers caught in the middle are discovering that the K in 401(k) might just stand for Keep out.

The retirement rumble escalated recently when Fidelity began enforcing a new policy restricting access for third-party financial advisors, and clients learned they lost online access to their 401(k) accounts for enlisting outside help.

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Among those locked out were users of Pontera, a popular investment management platform. Pontera allows financial advisors to access a clients 401(k) account, like those held with Fidelity, through their platform while protecting the clients personal login credentials. That way advisors can safely manage the account while being restrained by the platform from gaining control over actions such as transferring a clients funds without authorization.

Back in September 2024, Fidelity released a statement expressing concerns about the dangers of credential sharing  particularly when it enables third parties to take high-risk actions, such as executing trades within the accounts (1). As a result, they warned that they would prevent platforms reliant on credential sharing from accessing and taking action in customer accounts. Now, customers who employed third-party platforms like Pontera are being locked out of their own Fidelity retirement accounts.

One example is Phoenix resident Kelly Havins, 63, who told The New York Times that he enlisted a Pontera financial advisor because, when it comes to managing his 401(k), he doesnt have the time or the understanding (2). He said that when Fidelity contacted him to warn he could be locked out of his account, he thought it was a scam. But it wasnt and, after some back and forth with Fidelity, he lost online access to his account. Havins said he had to work with his financial advisor to regain access.

For its part, a Fidelity spokesperson told InvestmentNews that they only block online access and that a direct call with a company rep will help customers restore it (3).

Still, financial advisor John Rathnam told news outlet Arizonas Family that the idea that people might get cut off from their largest savings account  thats kind of crazy. Thats mind-boggling to me. Ive got to believe that they could have handled it better than that (4).
Modi's poll bugle for Bengal: Why PM sent a message to Mamata after Bihar election result

The BJP saw its vote share to 38.1 per cent in the 2021 West Bengal polls, converting the surge into 77 seats (from three)

Smriti Mishra

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'No sorrow in defeat': After NDA sweeps Bihar polls, RJD says 'Ups and downs are inevitable'

Ria Kapoor

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Nowgam police station explosion: MHA says cause of the 'accidental blast' being investigated

Ria Kapoor

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The Delhi Police Special Cell has registered a separate FIR under sections related to criminal conspiracy to probe the broader plot behind the blast.

Deblina Halder

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The doctors were part of a sophisticated white-collar Jaish-e-Mohammed terror module and had links to Al-Falah University in Faridabad.

Deblina Halder

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Red Fort to reopen for visitors on November 16, five days after deadly blast

Ria Kapoor

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SDRF personnel arrive on Saturday morning to clear debris after the accidental explosion ripped through the Nowgam police station late Friday night.

Deblina Halder

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A holding company controlled by Patrick James bought auto-parts maker Novares in April. - Eric Piermont/AFP/Getty Images

In the months before the collapse of auto-parts conglomerate First Brands, founder Patrick James was busy creating a new business group in Europe.

The entrepreneur spent hundreds of millions of dollars on a large plastic-components provider in France, an interiors business in Austria, and a sealings specialist in Germany, according to people familiar with the deals, even as cash was running out at First Brands. The idea: to replicate the U.S. companys rapid growth through acquisitions in Europe.

Most Read from The Wall Street Journal

First Brands is now in chapter 11 proceedings and creditors are at the start of trying to claw back around $11 billion. Numerous banks and investment funds have said they or their investors stand to lose money. Through the turmoil, Jamess European arm has continued to operate.

New managers at First Brands have accused James of enriching himself at the companys expense and said they found evidence of financial fraud by employees. The companys new chief executive told the bankruptcy court that hundreds of millions of dollars of corporate cash were transferred to personal accounts and other companies James controlled over several years.

A spokesman for James said he denies the allegations and that he always conducted himself ethically. His lawyers in court filings said James reinvested hundreds of millions of dollars into First Brands.

First Brands headquarters in Rochester Hills, Mich. - EagleView

While First Brands had some operations in Europe, the separate push by James into the region was little known before the bankruptcy.

The plan, according to the people familiar with the deals, was for him to diversify beyond First Brands and buy in Europe at a time when valuations were low because of tariff concerns.

In April, a holding company controlled by James bought auto-parts maker Novares, based about 10 miles outside Paris. Novares makes door handles, armrests and engine parts at sites across Europe and China, and has annual sales of around $1.3 billion.

The deal was negotiated by the First Brands strategy team and an auto executive recruited in Europe. They told people involved in that transaction that the purchase was to launch a European business for James, separate from First Brands.

European competition regulators reviewed the purchase and cleared it in March. They cited James as the acquirer via a company called Global Technologies. On its website, Global Technologies said Novares was the foundation for an ambitious acquisition and optimization strategy.
Whats driving Indias need for 30,000 new pilots? Aviation Minister Naidu explains the math

K Rammohan Naidu says Indias current pilot pipeline isnt enough for the coming fleet boom.

Aishwarya Dabhade

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In this election, the RJD contested 143 out of 243 Assembly seats, while its ally, the Congress, fought on 61 seats.

Priyanjali Ghose

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Yogis 87% strike rate towers over Akhilesh's 9% as NDA's Bihar sweep resets political equations in UP

Sonalee Borgohain

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Anas Kadiyarakam received a package of rewards along with the national title. (Image: Burjeel Holdings/LinkedIn)

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Man who preserved late wife through cryogenic programme faces backlash after forming new relationship

Gui Junmin acknowledged that he and Wang Chunxia came from different backgrounds and that their financial positions were not the same. (Representative Image)

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'No contract, no coffee': Zohran Mamdani backs 1,000 Starbucks baristas on strike, urges public not to buy

Zohran Mamdani added that Starbucks employees are engaged in an Unfair Labor Practices (ULP) strike, fighting for a fair contract.

Shubhi Mishra

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Californias TransAstra is testing an inflatable Capture Bag, available in several sizes, designed to snare asteroids for mining, as shown in this artists impression. (Image: TransAstra)

Sheetal Kumari

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Colombia airstrikes on Guerrillas kill six minors as Petro confronts intensifying US criticism

Pradeep Tripathi

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Pradeep Tripathi

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From Sarbjeet Kaur to Noor Hussain: Nikahnama reveals missing Sikh pilgrim was found married in Pakistan

From Sarbjeet Kaur to Noor Hussain: Nikahnama reveals missing Sikh pilgrim was found married in Pakistan

Pragya Trivedi

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China urges Netherlands to show willingness for cooperation

Xinhua) 15:49, November 15, 2025

BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of Commerce on Friday urged the Netherlands to demonstrate willingness to cooperate with China and present a substantive, constructive solution to the Nexperia issue.

A spokesperson for the ministry made the remarks when asked to comment on a recent statement concerning the issue of the semiconductor manufacturer Nexperia, an overseas subsidiary of the Chinese company Wingtech, by Vincent Karremans, Dutch minister of economic affairs.

China is extremely disappointed and strongly dissatisfied with such a statement, which distorts the facts, confounds black and white, and persists in willful actions, the spokesperson said.

According to the spokesperson, China has agreed to the Netherlands dispatching personnel to China for consultations.

China stands ready to work with the Dutch side to resolve the current issue as soon as possible, in the interest of maintaining the security and stability of global semiconductor industrial and supply chains, the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson further noted that China hopes the Dutch side will bring forward constructive solutions, and aim to solve problems, instead of creating new problems and conflicts.

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Liang Jun)
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A finance chiefs wire fraud case that prosecutors opened more than two years ago in Washington state has wrapped up.

Nevin Shetty, the former CFO of Seattle e-commerce startup Fabric, was convicted of four counts of wire fraud late last week after taking and misusing some $35 million from his former employer, U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd said Thursday. Hes set to receive sentencing  which could be up to 20 years in prison  on Feb. 11, 2026.

The case hinges on a transfer of more than $35 million from Fabric to a cryptocurrency platform that Shetty ran as a side business. Prosecutors said Shetty made the transfer in early April 2022. He had formed the side business, known as HighTower Treasury, in February 2022, and, according to Floyds office, it had no other outside customers.

Prosecutors said Shetty secretly transferred the funds out of Fabrics account shortly after he was told he would not continue as CFO over performance concerns in March 2022. At the time, he had agreed to leave the company in or around June 2022, according to the indictment.

No other executives or board members at the company knew of these transfers, according to a news release issued by Floyds office.

According to Floyd, Shetty put the funds in decentralized finance platforms that promised to generate 20% interest.

Shettys idea was that HighTower would pay Shettys company 6% of that interest and keep the remainder of any interest earned from the cryptocurrency investments for HighTower, which could have been substantial, Floyds release said. As an owner of HighTower, Shetty stood to keep those profits.

While Shetty earned about $133,000 in the first month, the value of his cryptocurrency investments quickly dropped. By May 2022, his initial $35 million investment was nearly zero, according to prosecutors.

Shetty then told two executives about his scheme and was immediately fired. The FBI launched an investigation after his employer reported the incident.

This defendant exploited his position of power and trust in an attempt to profit from his crime and then lied to cover it up, Floyd said in the release.

Shettys actions also appear to have violated his employers policies on investments. According to Floyds office, the startup had developed an investment policy statement that called for company cash to be invested only in money market accounts or other conservative investments.
Guns & Gavels: How Pakistans judiciary is being undermined and why it benefits Asim Munir

Tamal Nandi

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How Trump is trying to shift the spotlight to Clinton and the Democrats

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"Christmas tree mandates must be avoided ...must revert to having plain vanilla mandates": India calls for UNSC reforms

Pragya Trivedi

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South Africa's Ramaphosa says he will hand G20 presidency to an empty chair as U.S. skips summit

South Africa Will Hand G20 Over to US 'Empty Chair', President Says

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Trumps meeting with Syrian leader sparks fresh attention on old US terror post

Trumps meeting with Syrian leader sparks fresh attention on old US terror post

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Trump says he will sue BBC for up to $5 billion over edited Panorama speech

Donald Trump confirms he will sue the BBC over Panorama edit

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Hickman's Family Farms was acquired Nov. 14 by a global egg producer entering into the United States, ending over 80 years of Arizona-based ownership.

Mantiqueira USA, a newly formed company spun off from Mantiqueira Brasil, South Americas largest egg producer, purchased Hickmans for an undisclosed amount.

Mantiqueira USA operates as a joint venture between the Pinto Family, founders of Mantiqueira Brasil, and JBS N.V., the largest beef processor in the United States.

The deal would be completed by the end of the year, "pending customary closing conditions," according to the announcement.

Glenn Hickman, president and CEO of the Arizona egg producer, told The Arizona Republic his family had spent generations to expand and grow Hickman's, and that the decision to sell would allow the company to recover from avian influenza setbacks.

"We are pleased that our company has been chosen to be the launch pad for Mantiqueira USA entry into the North America egg industry," Hickman said in emailed statement.

"The resources Mantiqueira USA brings will allow our company to recover and expand at a rate our family could not do alone. We feel this arrangement will simply be a new chapter in our Company's 81 year history," Hickman said.

Clint Hickman, vice president of sales and head of marketing for Hickman's, referred a request for comment to Glenn Hickman's statements.

The purchase of Hickman's marked Mantiqueira USA's formal start of operations in the United States, according to Scarpa Pinto, president of the new company.

A chicken sits atop signage outside the Hickman's Family Farms store on June 23, 2023, in Tonopah.

The company did not say if the purchase would change Hickman's operations in Arizona.

"We are committed to honoring Hickmans legacy while driving new opportunities for our customers and team members," Pinto said.

Leandro Pinto, founder of Mantiqueira Brasil, said expanding into the United States was a longtime goal for his family company.

More to the story: Hickman's Family Farms announces metro Phoenix layoffs

End of an era

Hickman's was founded in Glendale in 1944 and remained family-owned and operated up until the sale in 2025, according to the company website.

But in recent years, the company suffered setbacks when avian influenza decimated its farms, requiring 95% of the egg-laying hen population to be euthanized.

In June, Hickman's announced layoffs for 85 employees.

In May, Glenn Hickman said the number of employees affected would be in the hundreds, but he was not sure of the final head count. The company had about 850 employees when operating at full capacity, Hickman said.
Manish Rao is a seasoned journalist who has extensively covered global affairs, geopolitical developments, American politics, and all other things making news around the world.

Soldiers in classrooms, war-focused textbooks and mandatory weapons training now form part of everyday schooling. (Picture credits: Wall Street Journal)

Aishwarya Dabhade

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Who is Vishen Lakhiani? Indian-Malaysian CEO stopped by FBI at US airport despite valid O-1 visa

Indian-Malaysian CEO of American company with O-1 visa stopped by FBI at Miami airport

Pragya Trivedi

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Arishaa Izaj

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Why China and Japan are at loggerheads over Taiwan

Pradeep Tripathi

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Quantum computing has gone from a lab curiosity to a boardroom talking point, but few names carry as much legacy weight as IBM (IBM). Investors watching the space want to know which firms can turn breakthroughs into real products and, eventually, profits.

IBM says it plans to deliver a system with quantum advantage by 2026 and reach fault-tolerant quantum computing by 2029, driven by its new Quantum Nighthawk processor. Nighthawk is billed to run noticeably more complex circuits and link scores of qubits with next-generation couplers, while software and error-correction gains aim to boost accuracy and cut execution costs.

More News from Barchart

For long-term growth seekers, that roadmap raises a clear question: Does IBMs scale and fab strategy give it a lead worth buying now, or is the stock priced for perfection before the hard work of commercialization begins? Let's try to find out the answer.

About IBM Stock

Founded in 1911, International Business Machines is one of the worlds oldest tech companies, offering enterprise hardware, software, and services. IBMs portfolio spans mainframe servers, enterprise software (Red Hat, WatsonX AI tools, etc.), and IT consulting. It operates globally (175+ countries) with a large roster of Fortune 500 clients and is now pivoting toward hybrid cloud and generative AI.

Valued at around $295 billion by market cap, IBMs stock has been one of the markets winners in 2025. Its shares have surged roughly 41% year-to-date (YTD), easily outperforming the 15% rise of the S&P 500 ($SPX). This rally was fueled by IBMs strong earnings and the quantum news at the developer conference. Investors cite multiple drivers like solid cloud/AI growth, mainframe demand, and confidence in IBMs AI/business transformation.

From a valuation perspective, IBM isnt a screaming bargain. Its forward P/E is about 26x and its EV/EBITDA is near 25x. Those are well above industry medians of around 24x and 11x, respectively. Put simply, IBM isnt cheap or expensive on these metrics; it trades at moderate premiums to peers.
Farside Investors has rebuffed repeated requests from XRP holders for dedicated exchange-traded fund (ETF) flow data.

After receiving multiple emails from clients asking Farside to create a XRP ETF flow monitor, the team took to X saying:

Please stop emailing us asking for a Ripple ETF flow monitor. We have no interest in covering Ripple ($XRP).

The London-based investment research firm is known for publishing daily ETF flow dashboards for Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH) and Solana (SOL), which have become widely cited across the industry.

Its refusal to include XRP surprised traders, given the asset's strong debut in the U.S. exchange-traded fund market.

Farsides ETF trackers dominate industry analytics

Founded in 2019, Farside Investors is best known for its clean, data-driven dashboards tracking exchange-traded fund flows and institutional crypto allocations.

The company initially focused on traditional market analytics before gaining industry-wide visibility during the 2024 spot Bitcoin ETF launches, when its real-time flow tables became a staple for traders, analysts and media outlets.

The firm later expanded coverage to Ether ETFs following their approval in mid-2024, and to Solana ETFs after their regulatory green light in 2025 - a mix that many traders view as a barometer of institutional crypto appetite.

Farsides daily Bitcoin ETF flow snapshot

Its concise reporting style has since positioned it as one of the most-referenced independent ETF data providers in the crypto sector.

According to Farsides most recent Nov. 13 ETF flow data, institutional positioning across major crypto products showed a sharp divergence:

Bitcoin spot ETFs recorded about $866.7 million in net outflows on Nov. 13, 2025, according to Farsides tracker.

Ether spot ETFs saw roughly $259.6 million in net outflows on Nov. 13, 2025.

Solana spot ETFs were the outlier, posting about $1.5 million in net inflows on Nov. 13, 2025.

XRP fans push back after firm rejects coverage

XRP holders reacted quickly to Farsides post. An X user, QuantumUltrarunna, wrote: This is going to age beautifully .

Another user, nietzbux, said, I hope you get 10x the amount of XRP emails now for your public destain [sic] of what customers clearly want.

Despite Farsides refusal to cover, XRPs new ETF recorded one of the biggest first-day performances of any U.S. ETF this year.

Bloomberg analyst Eric Balchunas posted:

Congrats to $XRPC for $58m in Day One volume, the most of any ETF launched this year (out of 900), BARELY edging out $BSOLs $57m.

Image shared by Eric Balchunas on X

XRPCs debut has positioned it at the top of more than 900 ETFs launched in 2025, outperforming every new fund despite a risk-off market.
Yves here. BWAHAHA. There is so little good news on the mass surveillance that every win ought to be celebrated. And the precedent here is important if it holds. The cities affected by the setback to Flock using license plate reading as a pretext for pervasive visual data hauling seem not to be willing to bet on an appeal succeeding. Enjoy the schadenfreude of the rapid retreat. If we are really lucky, Flock will suffer irreparable financial damage.

By Thomas Neuburger. Originally published at Gods Spies

Image from Flock Safety, the products manufacturer

This is a tale of Flock cameras, something you may never have heard about. Flock cameras are sold to the gullible and the complicit as simple license plate readers. Flock cameras are designed to watch cars. For safety, of course. Because crime. But they are much more.

Spyware Supreme

The theory is this:

Flock Safety, a fast-growing startup that helps law enforcement find vehicles from fixed cameras, has released a slew of new features meant to make it easier for users to locate vehicles of interest. Overall, the moves push the companys software in the direction of giving police the ability to search for vehicles using whatever cameras are at their disposal  a security camera at an ATM, a homeowners Ring doorbell, even a photo somebody took on their cellphone. The companys new Advanced Search package  which costs between $2,500 and $5,000 a year, depending on how many of Flock Safetys cameras the agency operates  includes a feature that allows users to upload a picture of a vehicle from any source and then perform a search to see if any of the companys cameras have seen it. It doesnt just search for license plates, either. The company has designed its software to recognize vehicle features such as paint color, type of vehicle and distinguishing features such as roof racks.

The tell is in the name: Flock Safety. Because keeping you safe is the reason for every intrusion. As one police-oriented site puts it (note: you here is the cops):

7/10 crimes are committed with the use of a vehicle. Capture the vehicle details you need to track leads and solve crime. Flock Safetys patented Vehicle Fingerprint technology lets you search by vehicle make, color, type, license plate, state of the license plate, missing plate, covered plate, paper plate, and unique vehicle details like roof racks, bumper stickers, and more.

The reach is stunning in breadth. Flock captures everything it sees. Everything. Not just vehicles. People. Everything.

Think thats a problem? So does a Washington state judge, who ruled that the sweep is so great that its data is a public record. Public means open to all.

That freaked out so many towns that the company is starting to lose contracts.

Across the United States, thousands of automated license plate readers quietly watch the roads. Some ride along in police cruisers [note: unrelated link, but a helluva story], others perch on telephone poles or hang above intersections, clicking away as cars glide past. They record everything in sight, regardless of whos behind the wheel. Its a vast, largely invisible network, one that most people never think twice about until it makes the news. Well, it turns out that those pictures are public data, according to a judges recent ruling. And almost as soon as the decision landed, local officials scrambled to shut the cameras down.

The tale behind the case is interesting:

The ruling stems from a civil case involving the Washington cities of Sedro-Woolley and Stanwood. Both sued to block public records requests filed by Oregon resident Jose Rodriguez. He works in Walla Walla and sought to access the images as part of a broader inquiry into government surveillance. Judge Elizabeth Yost Neidzwski sided with Rodriguez, concluding that the data do qualify as public records subject to the Public Records Act. The decision immediately led both cities to deactivate their Flock systems. Flock cameras are mounted along public roadways and continuously photograph passing vehicles, including occupants, regardless of whether any crime is suspected.

Concerns about privacy are central to the case. City attorneys, defending against Rodriguezs suit, said releasing the data would compromise the privacy of innocents. But they saw no problem with the government keeping the same data.

Privacy for Me, Surveillance for Everyone Else

This gets us to the central problem of todays surveillance state. No one running the cameras wants to be observed. One reason that city officials object to releasing Flock data, for example, must that they themselves are among the recorded. The cameras are on them too; they too can be tracked. Everything means everything for these everywhere cameras.

The rich want to hide their crimes (hello, Mr. Epsteins friends), ICE wants to mask its thugs. Billionaires think you have no business in their affairs.
Seal hunted by killer whales escapes by jumping onto photographers boat Associated Press (Dr. Kevin)

German scientists discover that rats hunt bats in the dark Not the Bee (Li)

The Best and Worst Hit Songs of the 1960s Ted Golia. This list is way too skewed to the early 1960s. And even for the earlier 60s, what about Downtown? For the later 60s, how about icons like Age of Aquarius? Bridge Over Troubled Waters? Proud Mary? American Woman? Elis Coming?

Everyone worries about kids not reading  but this is worse Aftonbladet via machine translation (Micael T). Yours truly vehemently disagrees. I have always had horrible manual dexterity, dreadful penmanship despite some effort, and despised art class. I did have a go at a couple of musical instruments, which was again a bust due to said terrible manual dexterity. Having said that, most kids are at least somewhat adept, so neglecting skills that require use of hands is a bad idea for them.

Scientists tie lupus to a virus nearly all of us carry MedicalXpress (fk)

Gene Therapy Gets FDAs Strongest Warning After Fatal Liver Injuries MedPage

The Monks in the Casino: A brief theory of young men, the loneliness crisis, and life in the 21st century Derek Thompson (Micael T)

#COVID-19/Pandemics

Climate/Environment

China?

South of the Border

European Disunion

Old Blighty

Israel v. The Resistance

New Not-So-Cold War

Big Brother is Watching You Watch

CEO of Palantir Says He Spends a Large Amount of Time Talking to Nazis Futurism

Imperial Collapse Watch

Trump 2.0

Immigration

Tariffs

Shutdown

MAHA

ByHearts bizarre response to infant botulism outbreak worries food safety experts STAT. A venture funded MAHA darling denies facts. KLG adds: Jeebus. People do not understand that the infectious dose of Clostridium botulinum spores can be in the single digits. Thus, it doesnt take many spores to cause disease, especially in a baby. And the spores are virtually impossible to kill. Same with anthrax, which is why both organisms are on the select list of potential bio-weapons. From the link: Infectious dose The minimum infective dose of C. botulinum spores for human infants is unknown, but it may be as low as 10-100 spores based on estimates from exposure to spore-containing honey Footnote 19

Democrat Death Wish

Mamdani

Disciplinary case against NYPD officer sets up potential conflict for Tisch and Mamdani Gothamist

>Laffaire Epstein

Woke Watch

Economy

AI

Guillotine Watch

Waymo Was on a Roll in San Francisco. Then One of Its Driverless Cars Killed a Cat New York Times resilc: Too funny, Clinton one of the main creators of Trump. He should be Burr and challenge her to a duel

Class Warfare

Antidote du jour (via):

And a bonus:

After hours stranded on the ice, cold and trembling, this dog was finally saved When rescuers arrived, you could see the relief in his eyes pic.twitter.com/1KcEQwj5jo  Dudes Posting Their Ws (@DudespostingWs) November 15, 2025

And a second bonus:

The bird even realized he had won  pic.twitter.com/xY7jZyeQtT  Nature is Amazing  (@AMAZlNGNATURE) November 14, 2025

And a third:

In 2015, a goat was thrown into a tigers enclosure as his weekly live feed only to become his friend.. pic.twitter.com/5Pf1P58Zib  og (@Yoda4ever) November 14, 2025

See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here.
Berlins energy lifeline: A subsidy for a struggling industrial giant

Germany will subsidize industrial electricity prices to 5 euro cents/kWh until 2028.

The measure aims to counter high energy costs blamed for crippling economic competitiveness.

Europe's largest economy has stagnated, with minimal growth projected for 2026.

The plan is a central pillar of the government's effort to revitalize German industry.

Critics argue the subsidy addresses a symptom of a deeper, self-inflicted energy crisis.

Faced with a prolonged economic stagnation that threatens Europes stability, Germanys governing coalition has taken drastic action. In a move underscoring the severity of the nation's industrial crisis, Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced a major, state-backed subsidy for industry electricity prices. The decision, reached in late 2025, is a direct response to an economic malaise widely attributed to soaring energy costsa problem critics link to the nations contentious and rapid transition away from traditional power sources. This intervention represents a multi-billion-euro bet that government support can restore the competitiveness of Germanys famed manufacturing sector.

The price of power and a plan for relief

The core of the government's new "growth initiative" is a sharply reduced electricity rate of approximately 5 euro cents per kilowatt hour for energy-intensive industries. Set to begin on January 1 and extend through 2028, the subsidy is designed as a lifeline for companies in sectors like chemicals and steel, which compete internationally against rivals operating with significantly lower energy costs. Chancellor Merz confirmed that negotiations with the European Commission for approval are in their final stages, expressing confidence the plan will be ratified. Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil estimates the program will cost taxpayers between 3 and 5 billion euros, a price he justifies as necessary to prevent a wider industrial exodus.

An economy on the brink

The urgency of the measure is rooted in Germanys stark economic reality. As the largest economy in Europe, its performance is a bellwether for the continent, and the current signals are alarming. The German economy has contracted for two consecutive years and has shown negligible growth for an extended period. Official government advisers project a meager 0.2% increase for the current year, followed by a still-weak 0.9% growth in 2026. This stagnation is not cyclical but structural, driven by a confluence of challenges that have exposed vulnerabilities in the nations economic model. These include:

Intense competition from Chinese manufacturers

A critical shortage of skilled workers

Cumbersome bureaucracy that stifles innovation

However, the most politically charged factor remains the persistently high cost of energy, a direct consequence of the nation's phase-out of nuclear power and its accelerated pivot to renewable sources.

A legacy of energy policy comes due

The current crisis cannot be understood without the historical context of Germany's Energiewende, or "energy transition." Initiated years earlier, this ambitious policy framework set the nation on a path to decarbonize its economy, heavily promoting renewables while systematically shutting down its nuclear power fleet. While environmentally ambitious, the transition created a precarious energy landscape. The removal of reliable baseload power, combined with geopolitical turmoil affecting natural gas supplies, left industry exposed to volatile and skyrocketing electricity prices. The new subsidy is therefore seen by many analysts as an emergency correctivea state-funded attempt to mitigate the economic damage of a policy suite that prioritized ideological goals over industrial stability and energy security.

Mixed reactions and a narrowing path

The business community has welcomed the subsidy as a critical step. Industry associations have long argued that uncompetitive energy prices were the primary threat to Germanys export-oriented model. Economists note that the price cap provides not just immediate relief but also a measure of predictability for long-term investment decisions. Yet, the response is not universally positive. Some industry leaders warn that a simple subsidy is insufficient to solve the deeper structural issues and have called for a more fundamental overhaul of Germanys energy policy to ensure affordable and reliable power generation for the next decade. The government has supplemented the energy price cap with other measures, including a pledge to streamline bureaucracy and a massive 500-billion-euro fund for infrastructure upgrades.

A subsidized future for German industry

The German governments decision to directly subsidize industrial electricity marks a pivotal moment, acknowledging that its previous energy trajectory has placed the entire economy at a strategic disadvantage. This intervention temporarily shields industry from the high costs of the nation's energy choices, but it does not resolve the underlying tension between its climate ambitions and its industrial needs. As the subsidy takes effect, its success will be measured by its ability to halt the economic decline and spur a genuine recovery. For Germany, the path forward is now one of heavy state involvement, a stark departure from its market-oriented principles, as it struggles to maintain its standing as Europes industrial powerhouse in an increasingly competitive global landscape.

Sources for this article include:

YourNews.com

ctpost.com

EnergyNews.com
Scientists detect radio signals and mysterious jets from space object 3I/ATLAS, alongside possible alien link

The interstellar object 3I/ATLAS exhibits bizarre behavior  including unexplained acceleration, color changes and radio emissions unlike any known natural comet.

For the first time, astronomers detected hydroxyl (OH) radio signals from 3I/ATLAS at 1.6651.667 GHz, suggesting artificial propulsion or unnatural composition.

The object emits jets stretching 1.8 million miles  far exceeding solar wind pressure  raising questions about whether it's a comet or a spacecraft with thrusters.

Its trajectory aligns within nine degrees of the 1977 "Wow! Signal," a coincidence with only a 0.6 percent chance of randomness, fueling speculation of an extraterrestrial connection.

Agencies continue tracking 3I/ATLAS, with Juno spacecraft set to investigate in 2026, while Harvard's Avi Loeb estimates a 40 percent chance it's artificial technology.

A massive interstellar object hurtling through our solar system has scientists worldwide questioning whether it is a natural comet or something far more extraordinary. Dubbed 3I/ATLAS, this enigmatic visitor, first detected on June 14 and officially confirmed by the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on July 1, has exhibited baffling behavior  including unexplained acceleration, color changes and the emission of radio signals.

Now, Harvard astrophysicist Dr. Avi Loeb  a leading figure in the Galileo Project  has raised a startling possibility. Could 3I/ATLAS be an artificial object, perhaps even an extraterrestrial probe?

For the first time, astronomers have picked up a radio signal emanating from 3I/ATLAS. South Africa's MeerKAT radio telescope detected absorption lines from hydroxyl (OH) molecules  oxygen-hydrogen compounds  on Oct. 24. "These molecules leave a distinct radio signature that telescopes like MeerKAT can pick up," Loeb explained.

Previous attempts on Sept. 20 and 28 failed, but this breakthrough confirms that the object is actively emitting detectable radio frequencies. The OH absorption lines were measured at 1.665 and 1.667 gigahertz, with Doppler shifts indicating a relative speed of 61 miles per second  far faster than expected for a typical comet.

Optical images captured on Nov. 9 reveal massive jets of material stretching 600,000 miles sunward and 1.8 million miles in the opposite direction  roughly the diameter of the sun itself. Loeb noted: "Given that the anti-tail jets are only stopped at about 620,000 miles, their ram pressure exceeds that of the solar wind by a factor of a million."

The solar wind typically flows at 250 miles per second, yet 3I/ATLAS' outflow speed suggests an unnatural propulsion mechanism. Loeb calculated that the object is shedding 50 billion tons per month, comparable to its own estimated mass.

"The numbers are challenging for a natural comet explanation," he admitted. "The required mass loss, rapid perihelion brightening and size all point to anomalies."

Mystery object 3IATLAS: Alien tech or cosmic coincidence?

Adding to the intrigue, 3I/ATLAS' trajectory aligns within nine degrees of the origin of the 1977 "Wow! Signal"  a mysterious radio burst that has never been explained. "The chance of two random directions in the sky being aligned to that level is about 0.6 percent," Loeb remarked. This coincidence has fueled speculation that 3I/ATLAS could have emitted the Wow! Signal  or that it may be an artificial object navigating toward Earth.

BrightU.AI's Enoch engine explains that the "Wow! Signal" is a mysterious, intense radio burst that was detected by Ohio State University's Big Ear radio observatory on Aug. 15, 1977. It was named after the exclamation of wonder uttered by astronomer Jerry Ehman upon discovering the signal, which appeared to come from the direction of the constellation Sagittarius.

Beyond its radio emissions and colossal jets, 3I/ATLAS has exhibited non-gravitational acceleration  speeding up without a clear natural cause. NASA engineer Davide Farnocchia confirmed that the comet seems to be experiencing "non-gravitational acceleration."

Additionally, astronomers observed the object turning blue as it approached the sun  a phenomenon Loeb suggested could stem from ionized carbon monoxide  or, more controversially, an artificial light source. "The non-gravitational acceleration might be the technological signature of an internal engine," he speculated.

Comets typically develop bright tails when heated by the sun, yet 3I/ATLAS has none. Loeb estimated that 13 percent of its mass should have formed a tail, yet none is visible. Some scientists suggest Earth's viewing angle may obscure it, but Loeb remains skeptical.

While mainstream astronomers lean toward natural explanations, Loeb has openly questioned whether 3I/ATLAS could be a spacecraft with thrusters. He pondered: "Is the network of jets associated with pockets of ice on the surface of a natural cometary nucleus or are they coming from a set of jet thrusters used for navigation of a spacecraft?"

But critics, like astrophysicist Dr. Alfredo Carpineti, dismiss the alien hypothesis, arguing that comets are dynamic by nature. "3I/ATLAS is a dynamic object. It's not a comet cutout in a nativity play," Carpineti said. Yet, Loeb remains undeterred, assigning a 40 percent probability that 3I/ATLAS is artificial.

NASA and the European Space Agency will continue monitoring 3I/ATLAS as it makes its closest approach to Earth on Dec. 19 (269 million kilometers away). The Juno spacecraft is scheduled to probe it in March 2026 when it passes 33 million miles from Jupiter, searching for low-frequency radio signals.

For now, the mystery deepens. Whether 3I/ATLAS is a rogue comet or something far more extraordinary, its journey through our solar system challenges everything we know  and may force humanity to confront the possibility that we are not alone.

Watch this video about Dr. Avi Loeb's theory that 3I/ATLAS could be an extraterrestrial spacecraft.

This video is from the Planet Zedta channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

WIONews.com

BrightU.ai

News18.com

Metro.co.uk

Brighteon.com
U.S. Navy deploys massive carrier strike group near Venezuela amid escalating drug war tensions

The U.S. Navy has deployed the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier strike group, the largest military presence in the region since the 1989 Panama invasion, under the pretext of counter-narcotics operations. However, analysts suggest this also signals regime change pressure against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

The Trump administration labels Maduro a "fugitive cartel leader" with a $50 million bounty, alleging he facilitates drug trafficking and gang migration. However, declassified U.S. intelligence memos contradict these claims, and regional leaders like Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum demand evidence.

Maduro has mobilized Russian-made missile systems and 4.5 million militiamen, warning of guerrilla resistance if the U.S. intervenes. He calls the naval deployment "the greatest threat to Latin America in 100 years."

The U.S. has conducted 19 strikes on suspected drug-smuggling boats, killing 76 people, but critics argue these are extrajudicial killings of civilians. Allies like the United Kingdom have halted intelligence-sharing over ethical concerns.

Most Latin American nations rejected U.S. military threats at the CELAC summit, though Venezuela and Nicaragua refused to sign. Meanwhile, Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva insists Venezuela's crisis must be resolved politically, not militarily.

The United States Navy has significantly escalated its military presence in Latin America with the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier strike group to waters near Venezuela, marking the largest U.S. military buildup in the region since the 1989 invasion of Panama.

The move intensifies pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, whom the Trump administration accuses of leading a transnational drug trafficking networka claim disputed by recent intelligence findings and regional leaders.

The Ford strike group, which includes the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, multiple guided-missile destroyers and dozens of tactical aircraft, entered the U.S. Southern Command's area of responsibility this week. The Department of War spokesman Sean Parnell stated that the deployment will "enhance and augment existing capabilities to disrupt narcotics trafficking and degrade and dismantle Transnational Criminal Organizations."

However, analysts suggest the military escalation serves a dual purposebolstering counter-narcotics operations while signaling Washington's willingness to apply maximum pressure on Maduro's regime. The Ford's advanced capabilities, including F/A-18 fighter jets and electronic warfare planes, far exceed the requirements for targeting small drug-smuggling vessels, raising concerns about potential broader military action.

Disputed claims and regional backlash

The Trump administration has justified its aggressive posture by accusing Maduro of facilitating cocaine trafficking into the U.S. and offering safe passage for violent gangs like Tren de Aragua. In August, Washington doubled its bounty on Maduro to $50 million, labeling him a "fugitive cartel leader."

According to the Enoch AI engine at BrightU.AI, the U.S. government's labeling of Maduro as a "fugitive cartel leader" is a complex geopolitical issue that can be analyzed through several lenses, including historical context, U.S. foreign policy and the global war on drugs. It is rooted in a complex history of U.S.-Venezuelan relations, the global war on drugs and geopolitical interests. While the U.S. points to evidence of drug trafficking in Venezuela, critics argue that the U.S. is exaggerating these claims to justify its interventionist policies. As with any geopolitical issue, it's essential to consider multiple perspectives and evaluate evidence critically.

Yet, a declassified U.S. intelligence memo contradicts these allegations, stating there is "no evidence" that Maduro directly commands drug cartels. Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum dismissed the accusations, demanding, "If they have some evidence, show it."

Meanwhile, Colombia's leftist President Gustavo Petro announced his country would suspend cooperation with U.S. security agencies over the controversial boat strikes. "As long as the boat strikes in the Caribbean continues, Colombia will halt communications with U.S. security entities," Petro declared on X (formerly Twitter).

Venezuela's defiant response

Maduro has denounced the U.S. naval buildup as "the greatest threat our continent has faced in the past 100 years." Venezuela's military announced a "massive deployment" of land, sea and air forces, including Russian-made missile systems, in preparation for a potential confrontation.

"If the U.S. intervenes, millions of men and women with rifles will march across the country," Maduro warned last month. Sources indicate Venezuela is preparing for guerrilla-style resistance should the U.S. escalate to direct military action.

The Trump administration has conducted 19 strikes against suspected drug-smuggling boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific since September, killing 76 people. War Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the operations, claiming the targeted vessels were "known by U.S. intelligence to be associated with illicit narcotics smuggling."

However, criticsincluding former U.S. officialsargue the attacks amount to "nonjudicial killings" of civilians who posed no immediate threat. The strikes have also strained relations with allies, with reports that the United Kingdom has halted intelligence-sharing on suspected drug vessels.

At the recent Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) summit, 58 of 60 nations signed a declaration rejecting "the use or threat of use of force"though it avoided directly naming the U.S. Venezuela and Nicaragua refused to sign, while Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva downplayed tensions, stating, "We are a zone of peace. The problem in Venezuela is political and must be resolved through politics."

With the Ford strike group now positioned near Venezuela, the risk of accidental conflict looms. The U.S. continues upgrading a former Cold War naval base in the Caribbean, suggesting preparations for prolonged operations.

Watch the video below about President Donald Trump sending warships to Venezuela.

This video is from the What is happening channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

WallStreetJournal.com

TheIrishTimes.com

Reuters.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
RFK Jr. orders CDC to investigate potential health risks of offshore wind farms

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has directed the CDC to study potential health and environmental risks of offshore wind farms, including electromagnetic frequencies from undersea cables and chemical leaching from turbine materials.

Studies suggest offshore wind turbines release toxic metals (aluminum, zinc, iridium) and microplastics into marine ecosystems, raising concerns about seafood contamination and human health impacts like cancer and endocrine disruption.

Commercial fishing communities oppose wind farms, citing disrupted fishing grounds, ecological damage and unknown occupational hazards, leading to lawsuits against Biden-era projects.

The Trump administration, skeptical of offshore wind, halted projects like Revolution Wind citing cost and national security concerns, while Biden pushes aggressive expansion despite mounting opposition.

The CDC's findings could influence future wind farm approvals, highlighting tensions between rapid renewable energy expansion and potential ecological harmamplifying the administrations skepticism.

Amid growing concerns over the environmental and health impacts of offshore wind energy, Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has quietly directed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to investigate potential risks posed by wind turbines to commercial fishermen and marine ecosystems.

The move signals a shift in federal priorities under the Trump administration, which has long opposed large-scale wind projects.

According to sources familiar with the matter, Kennedy instructed the CDC's National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to assess health hazards linked to offshore wind farms, including electromagnetic frequencies from undersea cables and chemical leaching from turbine materials. The study, initially expected to conclude within months, has been delayed due to the ongoing government shutdown.

While wind energy has been touted as a clean alternative to fossil fuels, emerging research suggests that offshore turbines may introduce new environmental and health risks. BrightU.AI's Enoch cites a 2024 study by the University of Portsmouth, which found that corrosion-resistant coatings on wind turbines release aluminum, zinc and iridium into surrounding waters, potentially contaminating marine life and seafood.

Professor Gordon Watson, a marine biologist involved in the study, cautioned that while wind farms help reduce carbon emissions, "there is limited data on how these metals affect the environment near operational offshore wind farms."

Meanwhile, advocacy group Green Oceans released a report warning that degrading turbine blades release microplastics, epoxy resins and toxic chemicals like PFAs and formaldehyde into the ocean. These substances have been linked to cancer, endocrine disruption and cardiovascular disease in humans.

Commercial fishermen caught in the crossfire

Commercial fishing communities have raised alarms about offshore wind farms disrupting traditional fishing grounds and exposing workers to unknown hazards. Several lawsuits have been filed against Biden-era wind projects along the East Coast, with fishermen arguing that turbine construction harms marine ecosystems and threatens livelihoods.

Kennedy's directive aligns with President Donald Trump's broader skepticism of wind energy. Trump has repeatedly criticized offshore wind farms as costly eyesores, even halting construction on the $3 billion Revolution Wind project off Rhode Island last year, citing national security concerns.

Kennedy, a former environmental lawyer, has long opposed offshore wind projects, including a contentious proposal near his family's Cape Cod compound. His latest move reflects a growing divide between renewable energy advocates and critics who question its unintended consequences.

The CDC's findings could influence future wind farm approvals, particularly if evidence links turbine operations to health risks. With the Biden administration pushing for expanded offshore wind development, Kennedy's investigation adds fuel to an already heated debate over America's energy future.

As the CDC's probe unfolds, the controversy over offshore wind underscores a broader tension between rapid green energy expansion and potential ecological fallout. For now, fishermen, scientists and policymakers await answerswhile the Trump administration's skepticism of wind power grows louder.

Watch the video below that talks about the cost of building wind turbines.

This video is from The Prisoner channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

WattsUpWithThat.com

Bloomberg.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Ground-penetrating radar scans reveal compelling evidence of Noahs Ark in Turkey

Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) scans revealed angular structures, remnants of wood, and chemical imprints consistent with a decaying wooden vessel in the Durupinar Formation  aligning with Biblical descriptions of Noah's Ark.

The scans detected a 13-foot passageway, three distinct underground layers (matching Genesis' description of decks) and corridor-like compartments, supporting the theory of a man-made ship.

Soil samples showed double the organic matter and 40 percent higher potassium levels  consistent with decomposed wood  further corroborating the Ark hypothesis.

The site's dimensions (515 feet long) match Biblical measurements, and supporting evidence includes petrified wood, high-tech metal alloys, ancient pottery depicting Noah and giant anchor stones. Turkey has officially recognized it as Noah's Ark National Park.

While skeptics dismiss it as a natural formation, researchers plan core drilling and further scans to verify the findings, potentially bridging faith and science with one of history's most iconic legends.

A team of American researchers using cutting-edge ground-penetrating radar (GPR) technology has uncovered startling evidence that may confirm the existence of Noah's Ark in the Durupinar Formation, just 18 miles south of Mount Ararat in Turkey.

The findings, which include angular structures, remnants of wood, and a chemical imprint consistent with a decaying wooden vessel. They align closely with the Biblical account of the Ark  a massive ship built by Noah to survive a catastrophic flood over 4,300 years ago.

According to BrightU.AI's Enoch, Noah's Ark  as described in the Biblical narrative found in the Book of Genesis (Chapters 6-9)  was a large boat constructed by Noah at God's command to save his family and pairs of every living creature from the impending global flood. The Ark is not merely a boat, but a symbol of salvation and a testament to Noah's obedience to God's will.

Independent researcher Andrew Jones, leading the investigation under Noah's Ark Scans, told the Christian Broadcasting Network. "We're not expecting something that's fully preserved. What's left is the chemical imprint, pieces of wood in the ground, the shape of a hall." The scans detected:

A 13-foot passageway running through the formation's center.

Three distinct underground layers, matching Genesis 6:16's description of the Ark's "lower, second and third decks."

Corridor-like structures, suggesting internal compartments.

Soil scientist William Crabtree, who analyzed samples from the site, noted double the organic matter and 40 percent higher potassium levels inside the formationconsistent with decaying wood. "If this was a wooden boat and the wood had rotted over time, we would expect to see elevated levels of potassium, changes in pH, and higher organic contentand that's exactly what we're finding," Crabtree told Daily Express.

Scans at Durupinar only reinforce that the Ark was REAL

The Durupinar Formation  first exposed in 1948 after heavy rains eroded its mud covering  has long been speculated as the Ark's resting place. The Bible states that after 150 days of flooding, the Ark came to rest "upon the mountains of Ararat" (Genesis 8:4). Remarkably, the formation's dimensions (515 feet long, 86 feet wide, 52 feet tall) align with Biblical measurements (300 Egyptian cubits long).

Additional evidence supporting the site includes:

Petrified wood confirmed by lab analysis.

High-tech metal alloy fittings (including aluminum and titanium) found embedded in the structure.

Ancient pottery shards depicting Noah, a bird, and a fishartifacts likely sold to visitors in antiquity.

Giant anchor stones discovered nearby, believed to have stabilized the Ark.

The Turkish government has officially recognized the site as Noah's Ark National Park, even constructing a visitor center for tourists. While skeptics argue the formation is a natural rock feature, Jones contends the findings point to human construction.

"This is not what you'd expect to see if the site were simply a solid block of rock or the result of random mudflow debris," Jones said. "But it is exactly what you'd expect to find if this were a man-made boat, consistent with the biblical specifications of Noah's Ark."

The team plans core drilling and further scans to compare interior and exterior soil samples. If confirmed, this discovery could bridge faith and science, offering tangible proof of one of history's most enduring legends. For believers, the Ark symbolizes divine salvation  a reminder that even in the darkest storms, hope remains afloat.

Watch this video explaining how all the animals fit on Noah's Ark.

This video is from the Henry Thrun channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

The-Express.com

BrightU.ai

IBTimes.com

CatholicOnline.news

Brighteon.com
The UAE is building a maritime empire to control global trade and potentially wage proxy wars

The United Arab Emirates (UAE), a small federation of Gulf states, is executing a master plan of economic penetration and militarized expansion, using its corporate might to seize control of vital trade arteries and establish a new form of 21st-century imperialism. The recent $800 million, 30-year concession granting UAE-based DP World control over Syrias Tartous Port is the latest bold move in a calculated strategy to dominate global shipping lanes, manipulate fragile nations, and entrench a power structure that operates in the shadows of American hegemony, threatening sovereignty and stability from the Horn of Africa to the Eastern Mediterranean.

Key points:

The UAE, through DP World, has secured a long-term concession to operate Syria's Tartous Port, marking a significant shift in regional economic alliances following lifted sanctions.

This commercial expansion is part of a broader, dual strategy that combines aggressive economic investment with military entrenchment and support for proxy militias.

The UAE's "sub-imperial" project targets strategic chokepoints across the Red Sea and Indian Ocean, creating a network of controlled ports from Yemen to Sudan and the Horn of Africa.

This expansion is deeply intertwined with its strategic cooperation with Israel and operates under the protective umbrella of United States power projection.

Local leaders and analysts warn that these investments are a strategic ploy that destabilizes regions, plunders resources, and represents a fundamental threat to national sovereignty.

Ports as pawns in a geopolitical game

The handover of Tartous Port operations in November was celebrated as a step toward modernizing a facility damaged during Syria's long conflict. DP World promises to dredge channels, replace equipment, and introduce digital systems, painting a picture of benevolent corporate investment. However, this narrative obscures a more sinister reality. This deal follows Damascuss annulment of a previous "unfair" agreement with a Russian company, illustrating how nations shattered by war become chessboards for powerful external actors. The UAE is not merely rebuilding infrastructure; it is inserting itself into the heart of Syrias economic future, gaining leverage over a key Eastern Mediterranean trade hub just as the country tentatively reopens to the world.

Since 2015, under the leadership of Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, the UAE has abandoned any pretense of neutrality, fusing a branding campaign of modernity and soft power with a ruthless doctrine of militarization. The strategy is simple yet effective: use investment vehicles like DP World to take control of critical maritime routes under the guise of ensuring security and fostering trade. In reality, these ports become logistical hubs, training camps, and military bases, allowing a nation with a small citizenry to project power far beyond its borders. As Sudanese journalist Kamal Sir al-Khatem explains, the UAE represents a model of a "peripheral state that practices imperialism within its own region, while at the same time remaining dependent on the United States as the main imperialist power."

A militarized corridor across the Horn of Africa

Nowhere is this dual strategy more evident than in the Horn of Africa, a region the UAE has transformed into a militarized corridor for its ambitions. In Eritrea, Abu Dhabi leased the port and airport of Assab for 30 years, creating its first overseas military base. This location was not chosen by accident; it became a launchpad for drones and ground forces during the devastating war in Yemen, allowing the UAE to control a critical gate to the Red Sea.

In Somalia, the UAE capitalized on internal fractures, leasing the port and airport of Berbera in the breakaway region of Somaliland despite vehement opposition from the federal government in Mogadishu. These facilities were swiftly transformed into integrated military and intelligence posts. Similar maneuvers secured control over the port of Bosaso in Puntland, turning the region into a node for Emirati power projection. These actions have drawn sharp criticism. Djiboutis President Ismail Omar Guelleh has publicly called the UAE's $110 billion investment campaign in Africa a strategic ploy and a threat to Africas sovereignty, accusing Abu Dhabi of using economic deals as a veil for a destabilizing military expansion.

The UAEs entanglement in Sudan reveals the even darker underbelly of this project. Beyond efforts to control Port Sudan, the UAE stands accused of supporting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group infamous for war crimes and human rights violations. This support is allegedly financed through a shadow economy. A regional analyst confided that "about 80 percent of Sudan's smuggled gold is destined for the UAE, where it is re-exported to international markets, making it the biggest beneficiary of this trade. This trade is used to finance the war... which manage their financial operations from Dubai." This is not investment; it is a form of economic warfare that fuels conflict and profits from human suffering.

Yemen: The blueprint of control

Yemen serves as the starkest example of the UAEs imperial blueprint. Entering the country as part of a Saudi-led coalition, Abu Dhabi quickly pursued its own agenda, methodically seizing control of the nation's coasts. It took over the ports of Aden, Mukalla, and Mokha, asserting authority over both the Arabian Sea and the Red Sea. Its ambitions even extended to Yemens islands, with the strategic island of Socotra being transformed into a military and intelligence base, a move reportedly coordinated with Israel.

The bitter irony, as noted by Ahmed al-Hasani, spokesperson for the South Yemeni National Salvation Council, is that despite this expansive control, the UAE has been powerless to stop Yemeni Armed Forces from launching attacks on Israeli-linked shipping in the Red Seaactions taken in solidarity with Gaza. In a telling revelation, Hasani states that the UAE has opened discreet channels with Sanaa, effectively asking its adversaries to neutralize the very proxy forces it once supported.

"The UAE's control over Yemeni ports does not only carry an economic dimension," Hasani explains, "but is linked to a strategic security project in which it cooperates with Israel and the United States." This is a project of sub-imperialism, where a regional power acts as a junior partner in a broader scheme of control, creating a network of dependency and coercion that stretches from the Indian Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. The human cost of this ambition is paid by the people of these nations, who find their resources plundered, their sovereignty sold, and their lives caught in the crossfire of a silent takeover.

Sources include:

TheCradle.co

TheCradle.co

Enoch, Brighteon.ai
A new front: U.S. launches Operation Southern Spear against cartels

The U.S. Secretary of War has announced a new military initiative, "Operation Southern Spear," targeting drug trafficking networks in the Western Hemisphere.

The announcement follows a recent U.S. strike on an alleged drug-running boat, the 20th such engagement since September, which reportedly killed four individuals.

The Trump administration has labeled the targets "narco-terrorists," a designation used to justify the lethal strikes, though the Pentagon has not publicly provided evidence of drug cargo or identified those killed.

The operation signals a potential escalation in U.S. military involvement in Latin America, with reports of high-level briefings on potential land strikes against Venezuela.

The campaign has drawn criticism for its legality and has heightened regional tensions, with Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro accusing the U.S. of fabricating a war to oust him.

In a significant escalation of military force in Latin America, U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced a new campaign dubbed Operation Southern Spear on Thursday, November 13, 2025. The operation, led by Joint Task Force Southern Spear and U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), is framed by the administration as a direct response to the flow of illegal drugs into the United States. The announcement coincided with revelations of another U.S. military strike on an alleged drug-running boat in the Caribbean, underscoring a hardening U.S. posture that is drawing legal scrutiny and raising geopolitical tensions.

The "narco-terrorist" designation and lethal strikes

The Pentagon confirmed that a strike conducted on Monday marked the 20th such engagement since a broader counternarcotics campaign began in early September. Officials reported that the latest strike killed four individuals described as narco-terrorists, a term the administration has adopted to justify its actions. According to numbers released by the Trump administration, these maritime strikes have killed at least 79 people to date. However, the Pentagon has publicly offered no evidence to substantiate claims that the targeted vessels were carrying drugs. Furthermore, it has admitted to Congress that it does not know the identities of the people killed in the strikes, raising significant questions about the process for determining targets and the legal basis for the extrajudicial killings.

A legal and strategic gray zone

The ongoing bombing campaign operates in a legal gray area, facing growing criticism from experts who argue it is illegal under both U.S. domestic and international law. The strikes are conducted without judicial oversight or transparent accountability, relying on the administrations narco-terrorist label. This approach represents a continuation of long-standing U.S. drug interdiction efforts but with a more overt and frequent use of lethal force. Historically, U.S. military involvement in Latin America, from the Cold War-era interventions to the Plan Colombia aid package, has been a source of regional controversy. The current campaign, characterized by its high number of strikes and casualties in a short period, marks a more aggressive and unilateral turn in this complex history.

Regional tensions and the Venezuela question

Secretary Hegseths announcement signals not just a continuation but a potential expansion of the U.S. military role in the region. The new operation could signal a move toward a more direct confrontation with Venezuela. Earlier on Thursday, CBS News reported that Hegseth, alongside Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Gen. Dan Caine, briefed President Trump on potential military options, including land strikes against the South American nation. The U.S. claims that drug smugglers have links to the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Maduro has vehemently denied these accusations, countering that the U.S. is "fabricating a new war" and that the substantial U.S. naval buildup, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier, represents the "greatest threat our continent has faced in the past 100 years" aimed at ousting him from power.

A precarious path forward

The launch of Operation Southern Spear solidifies a hardline U.S. military strategy in its own hemisphere. While the administration frames it as a necessary defense of the homeland against narcotics, the campaign is conducted with limited transparency and amid serious legal concerns. The high casualty count from the initial strikes and the potential for escalation with Venezuela suggest a precarious path forward. The operation places the U.S. on a new and volatile course, one that risks entangling the nation in a complex conflict with deep historical roots and uncertain consequences for regional stability and international law.

Sources for this article include:

News.Antiwar.com

TheHill.com

DW.com
We recently published 11 Stocks on Jim Cramers Radar. Centene Corporation (NYSE:CNC) is one of the stocks Jim Cramer recently discussed.

Centene Corporation (NYSE:CNC), the healthcare benefits manager, factored into the discussion after Cramers co-host, Carl Quintanilla, commented on a report pointing out that two million people were likely to lose their healthcare over the coming year. This report was from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, and here is what Cramer said:

Jim Cramer Discusses Centene (CNC) & Medicaid

Right and you see, and I always use Centene as the benchmark, because it does so much Medicaid, that their people are taking their numbers down, betting that they wouldnt be able to provide what they were providing. Michael Neidorff, the late Michael Neidorff, who ran Centene explained to me, the, what can happen if they are not given incentives to write in areas. And, there are places around the country that you may not know, where the deductible goes to 500,000. And people just have to say, I guess I just dont have the money. And its a shame, again, Neidorff was the king of explaining how dangerous this could be for many states in the country.

While we acknowledge the potential of CNC as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an extremely cheap AI stock that is also a major beneficiary of Trump tariffs and onshoring, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now.
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To find a multi-bagger stock, what are the underlying trends we should look for in a business? Typically, we'll want to notice a trend of growing return on capital employed (ROCE) and alongside that, an expanding base of capital employed. This shows us that it's a compounding machine, able to continually reinvest its earnings back into the business and generate higher returns. Speaking of which, we noticed some great changes in Khong Guan's (SGX:K03) returns on capital, so let's have a look.

We've found 21 US stocks that are forecast to pay a dividend yield of over 6% next year. See the full list for free.

Return On Capital Employed (ROCE): What Is It?

Just to clarify if you're unsure, ROCE is a metric for evaluating how much pre-tax income (in percentage terms) a company earns on the capital invested in its business. To calculate this metric for Khong Guan, this is the formula:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.056 = S$3.2m  (S$68m - S$10m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to July 2025).

Thus, Khong Guan has an ROCE of 5.6%. Ultimately, that's a low return and it under-performs the Consumer Retailing industry average of 9.9%.

See our latest analysis for Khong Guan

SGX:K03 Return on Capital Employed November 15th 2025

Historical performance is a great place to start when researching a stock so above you can see the gauge for Khong Guan's ROCE against it's prior returns. If you want to delve into the historical earnings , check out these free graphs detailing revenue and cash flow performance of Khong Guan.

The Trend Of ROCE

Khong Guan has not disappointed with their ROCE growth. More specifically, while the company has kept capital employed relatively flat over the last five years, the ROCE has climbed 447% in that same time. So it's likely that the business is now reaping the full benefits of its past investments, since the capital employed hasn't changed considerably. It's worth looking deeper into this though because while it's great that the business is more efficient, it might also mean that going forward the areas to invest internally for the organic growth are lacking.

Our Take On Khong Guan's ROCE

In summary, we're delighted to see that Khong Guan has been able to increase efficiencies and earn higher rates of return on the same amount of capital. And since the stock has fallen 35% over the last five years, there might be an opportunity here. So researching this company further and determining whether or not these trends will continue seems justified.
Although midwives have long been associated with home births, roughly 90 percent of midwife-attended births in the U.S. now occur in hospitals. At NYU Langone Health, midwives are fully integrated into obstetric care, giving patients the benefits of personalized guidance in an environment equipped for urgent, advanced treatment.

That approach shaped the experience of Juliette Sardou, who planned to deliver her first child at home until a scan during a third trimester prenatal appointment revealed that her baby had an irregular heartbeat. She was referred to NYU Langone for further testing, where an evaluation by Colin K. Phoon, MD, a pediatric cardiologist in the Pediatric Congenital Heart Center at Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU Langone, revealed a twisted (tortuous) ductus arteriosus - a heart condition that would require ongoing monitoring. The ductus arteriosus is a vessel that helps circulate blood before birth.

To help ensure the safety of both Sardou and her baby, Dr. Phoon advised against having the birth at home, but he wanted to make the transition to hospital-based care more comfortable for Sardou and her partner. Dr. Phoon referred Sardou to NYU Langone's maternal-fetal medicine subspecialists and midwifery team to oversee the rest of her perinatal care.

We knew Juliette had a strong vision for her birth experience, so our goal was to support that as much as possible while also providing the specialized monitoring her baby needed. This is a great example of how we coordinate with multiple specialties to balance patient safety with an experience that feels personal and supportive." Colin K. Phoon, MD, pediatric cardiologist, Pediatric Congenital Heart Center at Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU Langone

At 37 weeks, Sardou developed high blood pressure and was admitted to the hospital for delivery. Midwives Kathryn Mulholland, CNM, and Karry K. Li, CNM, helped her maintain her preferred birth plan as much as possible, including avoiding an epidural and choosing her labor and birthing positions.

"I felt like every single midwife really had my back," Sardou said. "They handled any stressful moment with a lot of ease. They put my needs first and were also very communicative with my partner."

Sardou's son was born healthy and was cleared to go home without additional care or ongoing monitoring from the cardiology team.

"I feel so grateful for the midwives," Sardou said. "They made an overwhelming situation manageable, supportive, and joyful."

A collaborative model that prioritizes personalized care

At NYU Langone, certified midwives are integrated members of the labor and delivery team, offering patients personalized care during pregnancy, birth, and beyond. In Manhattan, patients are seen at the Mignone Women's Health Collaborative and can deliver with midwives at Tisch Hospital. Midwives also attend births at NYU Langone Hospital - Brooklyn.

"Our midwives focus on education, empowerment, and respecting the natural process of labor," said Eugenia Montesinos, CNM, director of midwifery services. "We take time to understand each person's values and preferences to create birth plans that prioritize mobility, comfort, and minimal intervention when medically appropriate."

The midwifery team works closely with obstetrician-gynecologists and maternal-fetal medicine subspecialists, allowing patients to go through labor as naturally as possible while having access to additional medical support if complications arise. The collaborative approach also means that some high-risk patients can still have midwifery-attended care.

"Patient safety is always our top priority," said Justin Brandt, MD, director of the maternal-fetal medicine division. "Because we work hand in hand with our midwifery colleagues from the start, we can anticipate needs, respond quickly when circumstances change, and make decisions together with the patient. That level of mutual trust and shared decision-making helps us deliver care that's both safe and aligned with each patient's goals."

A supportive experience for first-time parents

When Alison Ferrell became pregnant with her first child, she was relatively new to New York City and didn't yet have an established obstetric provider. She initially sought care at another practice, but each visit left her feeling rushed and unheard.

The experience changed when she transferred her care to NYU Langone's midwifery team. From her first appointment, Ferrell noticed a different approach. Visits seemed unhurried, and the midwives encouraged her to explore her priorities and develop a birth plan focused on mobility and low intervention. When answers to her questions weren't immediately available, she received follow-up phone calls.

"I felt like the care I received was better than any medical care I've ever received in my life," Ferrell said. "I didn't feel like a number. I felt like somebody that was being cared for in a very personalized way."

During labor, unexpected challenges developed, including an infection that required antibiotics. Under Montesinos's care, and with partnership from the generalist obstetrics team, each step was explained clearly, with safety prioritized alongside her goal for mobility and minimal intervention. Ferrell delivered a baby girl, Sydney, and both went home in good health.

Support continued after discharge. Recognizing that postpartum recovery can be overwhelming, Montesinos followed up with a call just to check in.

"That meant a lot to me," Ferrell said. "I felt like I was still being taken care of even though I was out of the hospital setting."

"Every pregnancy is unique," Montesinos said. "Our role is to listen, to guide, and to make sure each person feels heard - whether their journey is straightforward or involves multiple specialists."
Well-being and school results are inter-connected, but some children simply do not enjoy school. So what can we do to make school a happier experience for more children?

Professor Hermundur Sigmundsson works at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU's) Department of Psychology and has spent many years conducting research on learning and schooling.

He and his colleagues are currently carrying out a project in Vestmannaeyjar in Iceland. Among other things, they have investigated whether more physical activity early in the day and a passion project class at the end of the school day affect how much the youngest children enjoy school.

The researchers therefore gave children in Years 1 to 3 at the primary school in Vestmannaeyjar more physical education and opportunities to choose activities at the end of the school day  something they called the 'passion project class'.

More physical education = greater well-being

"In Iceland, children in primary and lower secondary school normally have two hours of physical education and one hour of swimming per week. But the children in our study were given two additional hours of physical activity per week," said Sigmundsson.

That corresponds to around 72 school hours over the course of a school year. The researchers believe that this will increase the children's well-being.

'Passion project classes' are even more popular

Increasing physical activity is not the only measure the research group has implemented. Previously, they also introduced 'passion project classes'.

Physical education and the additional two hours of physical activity are scheduled at the beginning of the day. The pupils also have a passion project class at the end of every school day." Professor Hermundur Sigmundsson, NTNU

In the passion project class, the pupils can choose among activities such as painting, music, crafts, sewing and knitting, and food and health. On Fridays, the passion project class ends with singing and dancing.

"Physical activity and the passion project class are the subjects the children both enjoy the most and feel they master the best," said Sigmundsson.

The passion project class is the most popular and gives the greatest sense of mastery among all the school subjects.

This holistic approach, which includes both extra physical activity and the passion project class, seems to be working.

"Our pupils score significantly higher on the question 'Do you enjoy school?' than a control group of Norwegian children," added Sigmundsson.

'Ignite the Spark' increased literacy

The programme is part of 'Kveikjum neistann' (Ignite the Spark)  an Icelandic educational research project with a holistic approach to schoolwork, developed by Sigmundsson.

"This is the fifth year at Grunnskoli Vestmannaeyjar school and the third year at Lindaskoli school," said Sigmundsson.

This study included 146 Icelandic pupils, and 1185 children were included in the Norwegian control group.

Increased well-being is by no means the only good result the researchers have achieved. The children have also become better at reading, which is a foundation for improved performance in many subjects.

"With focused training, good support and assessment, all the children in our project manage to crack the reading code by the end of their first year of school," Sigmundsson said.

Orders from above

Norway's Minister of Education Kari Nessa Nordtun has called for measures that can increase well-being in primary and lower secondary school, motivate pupils, and include more arts and crafts in the school day.

"This is exactly what we are working on in Ignite the Spark," said Sigmundsson.

Three schools in Norway have now introduced additional physical activity and passion project classes every day, and two schools are implementing the 'I CAN/We CAN' intervention. In addition, the MOT (Show Courage) session implements the 'I CAN' programme for 16,000 Year 10 pupils each year. You can read more about it here.

Even though the project in Iceland still has five years left to run, the researchers have already identified several factors that can make the school day both more enjoyable and more effective for the children involved.
Yale chemists have synthesized a complex, potentially cancer-fighting molecule found in sea sponges discovered off the coast of South Korea.

The work, described in the journal Science, sets the stage for identifying the active biological mechanism of gukulenin A, an intricate, much-heralded molecule - first isolated from the marine sponge Phorbas gukhulensis in 2010 - that may have applications in chemotherapy.

This molecule is highly complex, and the synthetic version is the most complex structure my lab has created to date." Seth Herzon, the Milton Harris '29 Ph.D. Professor of Chemistry in Yale's Faculty of Arts and Sciences and senior author of the new study

Herzon is a member of the Yale Cancer Center and holds joint appointments in the departments of pharmacology and therapeutic radiology at Yale School of Medicine.



Several gukulenins have demonstrated anticancer properties. The potential effectiveness of Gukulenin A was highlighted in a 2019 animal model of ovarian cancer. Yet over the past 14 years, no research group has been able to synthesize gukulenin A in the lab.



The molecule's structure is highly difficult to recreate in the laboratory, Herzon said. It is filled with challenges for a researcher to overcome: two aromatic "troplone" rings (reactive, seven-membered rings with single and double bonds that alternate), nine stereogenic centers (a carbon atoms with four different substituents bonded to it), and several unstable and reactive functional groups that could stop a synthesis instantly.



To overcome these challenges, Herzon's group devised a synthetic route to create gukulenin A in 24 steps. Along the way, the team had to develop three new methods for the synthesis of tropolones and design a two-carbon "linchpin" reagent (a molecule with two reactive sites) to unite the two tropolone rings.



"These methods not only kept our synthesis short, but also made it modular," said lead researcher Vaani Gupta, a fourth-year student in Yale's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and a member of Herzon's lab. "We were able to leverage this modularity to access several derivatives of gukulenin A."



The researchers synthesized 15 gukulenin derivatives and evaluated their anti-cancer properties. Each derivative was designed to examine the relationship between a specific aspect of the molecule's structure and anticancer activity.



Using this method, the team determined that certain residues in gukulenin A are necessary to achieve potent anti-cancer effects, while other substructures are dispensable. This information helped the researchers design a simpler structure that retained the molecule's therapeutic potency.



"This work will allow us to identify the biological mechanism underlying the anticancer activity of gukulenin A and evaluate simplified synthetic analogs in preclinical studies to assess their potential as novel chemotherapies," Herzon said.



Gupta and Zechun Wang, Ph.D. students in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, are lead authors of the study. Current and former Yale co-authors are Joshua Combs, Timothy Wright, Lei Chen, Boxu Lin, Ryan Holmes, Bo Qin, Joonseok Oh, and Jason Crawford.

Funding for the research came from the National Institutes of Health.
28 blackbucks die in Belagavi zoo in two days

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 13:57 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

Belagavi (Karnataka), Nov 15 (PTI) Twenty eight blackbucks have died under mysterious circumstances in the Kittur Rani Chennamma Zoo in Belagavi, in the past three days, a zoo official said on Saturday.

According to the Assistant Conservator of Forest Nagaraj Balhasuri, eight blackbucks died two days ago while 20 died on Saturday.

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He said the veterinary doctor at the zoo suspected that they died due to a bacterial infection though actual cause is yet to be ascertained.

We have sent the viscera sample to the authorities at Bannerghatta Zoological Park in Bengaluru to find out the reason behind the death," Bale told reporters. PTI GMS ROH

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 13:57 IST

News agency-feeds 28 blackbucks die in Belagavi zoo in two days

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Abandoned bag causes panic at Mumbai metro station; nothing suspicious found

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 19:41 IST

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Mumbai, Nov 15 (PTI) Panic gripped Gundavali metro station in Andheri area of Mumbai on Saturday afternoon when an abandoned bag was spotted on its premises, officials said, adding that no suspicious object was found during checking.

The black bag was found near the ticket counter on the first floor of the station, prompting authorities to deploy a Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad and sniffer dogs for checking.

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Officials confirmed that no suspicious items were found inside the bag. Notably, an unclaimed bag was found outside the busy Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) on Friday.

Security in busy areas and railway stations in Mumbai has been increased in the wake of the Delhi car blast. PTI ZA NSK

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 19:41 IST

News agency-feeds Abandoned bag causes panic at Mumbai metro station; nothing suspicious found

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Army's Sapta Shakti Command conducts large-scale combat exercise in Thar Desert

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 21:11 IST

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Jaipur, Nov 15 (PTI) The Indian Armys Sapta Shakti Command has conducted a large-scale combat exercise at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in the Thar Desert to assess war preparedness and operational capability of its formations, officials said on Saturday.

The exercise, carried out by the commands Ranbankura Division, aimed to refine tactical drills, strengthen inter-arms coordination, and test the integration of all units and sub-units in challenging battlefield conditions, they said.

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Sapta Shakti Command chief Lt Gen Manjinder Singh reviewed the operational manoeuvres during the exercise.

Army spokesperson Lt Col Nikhil Dhawan said the drill tested soldiers endurance, discipline and ability to perform in high-intensity, realistic combat settings.

The training also focused on command-and-control procedures, intelligence coordination, and the effective employment of drone platforms to enhance battlefield readiness, he said.

The participating troops successfully validated operational plans, logistic capability and communication networks, demonstrating the divisions high level of preparedness and adaptability to evolving threats, the spokesperson said.

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Lt Gen Singh praised the troops for their professionalism, innovation and mission-focused approach, saying their performance reflected the Armys commitment, courage and pursuit of excellence in all conditions.

He also interacted with personnel from the Bhairav Battalion and commended their advanced training standards and operational readiness. PTI AG ARI

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 21:11 IST

News agency-feeds Army's Sapta Shakti Command conducts large-scale combat exercise in Thar Desert

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Arunachal minister inaugurates state pavilion at IITF

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 15:56 IST

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Itanagar, Nov 15 (PTI) Arunachal Pradesh Trade and Commerce Minister Nyato Dukam has said that India International Trade Fair (IITF) serves as a platform to strengthen Indias global trade footprint while showcasing its rich cultural heritage.

Speaking after inaugurating the Arunachal Pradesh State Pavilion at the 44th IITF at New Delhi on Friday, the minister highlighted the states entrepreneurial growth and sustainability.

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According to an official statement, Dukam complimented the state Trade and Commerce department for providing a platform to entrepreneurs from the state to exhibit and sell their products at the international level.

Urging exhibitors to take maximum advantage of the opportunity, he said, The Trade and Commerce department is supporting entrepreneurs by providing free exhibition space and facilitating their stay in the national capital." The Arunachal Pradesh pavilion set up by the Trade & Commerce department is hosting 28 enterprises/companies that showcase products from women self-help groups, entrepreneurs from food processing, tea, adventure tourism, FPOs/FPCs with their agro-horti produces, and spices, state Trade and Commerce secretary Tai Kaye said.

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He said the event is part of the larger India International Trade Fair, themed, Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, featuring participants from 12 countries.

The aim is to give exposure to entrepreneurs to make business linkages and connect them with wholesale and retail buyers and also adopt sustainable trade practices, the official added. PTI CORR RG

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 15:56 IST

News agency-feeds Arunachal minister inaugurates state pavilion at IITF

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Despite the wave of layoffs and hiring freezes hitting major sectors like tech, not every career path is suffering. A Reddit thread asking people what fields are doing fine right now received hundreds of replies; many of them from people currently working and thriving in those industries.

Strong Demand Remains In Trades, Healthcare And Accounting

Accountants were among the most confident responders. One person wrote, Im an accountant and Im doing fine. I was able to cold-quit a job in July and had a new, better one by the end of August. Others mentioned frequent recruiter calls and multiple job offers during recent job searches.

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While younger workers in the field are seeing better results, some cautioned that new grads and applicants over 40 are having a tougher time breaking in.

Civil engineering was another bright spot. Several people noted that infrastructure projects, fueled by federal funding, are keeping engineers and support staff busy.

My wife will be working on the same interstate expansion/toll road project for the next 10 years, one person said. Others pointed out that landscape planners and construction firms tied to these projects are also doing well.

Healthcare came up repeatedly. Nurses, occupational therapists, and paramedics all reported steady work, though the job conditions were often described as tough. Nursing is booming, one person commented, while another said, It isn't for the weak.

Special education teachers and instructors for the visually impaired also described strong demand, with one person saying, Literally hiring in every state and globally.

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Trades Are Thriving And Often Require No Degree

Skilled trades like plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, refrigeration, and septic tank service were also frequently mentioned. One person said, Started this job with absolutely no maintenance experience started me at $27/hr. Another added that their dog grooming business has a waitlist and that demand surged during COVID and hasnt slowed down.

The funeral industry, often overlooked, appears to be wide open. One person who works as a mortician said demand is strong, and another added, Demand is only going to go up once the boomers really start dying off.
Asia Pacific region will require 19,560 new planes over 20 years: Airbus

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 14:12 IST

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Bangkok, Nov 15 (PTI) The Asia Pacific region is projected to require 19,560 new narrow-body and wide-body planes over the next 20 years, majorly driven by demand from India and China, aircraft maker Airbus said on Saturday.

The demand, Airbus said, represents 46 per cent of the global requirement for 42,520 new aircraft over the timeframe of 20 years.

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India and China are driving a major portion of the growth, Airbus Asia Pacific President Anand Stanley said here.

With rising passenger traffic, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to see an annual passenger growth of 4.4 per cent, higher than the global average of 3.6 per cent.

India is one of the worlds fastest growing civil aviation markets and airlines have placed huge orders as they expand their fleets to cater to the rising traffic demand.

Presenting the forecast during the Association of Asia-Pacific Airlines (AAPA) Annual Assembly of Presidents in Bangkok, Airbus said the region is projected to require around 3,500 wide-body planes over the next 20 years.

This number represents 43 per cent of global demand in the larger size aircraft categories.

As per the forecast, the Asia Pacific region will need around 16,100 single-aisle aircraft, accounting for 47 per cent of the new deliveries globally in the given time period.

Nearly 68 per cent of the aircraft deliveries will support fleet expansion, while 32 per cent will replace older models, significantly contributing to decarbonisation efforts.

The next generation of Airbus wide-body aircraft offers an immediate 25 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and a corresponding reduction in carbon emissions," Airbus said.

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Stanley said Asia Pacific region is entering an exciting phase of growth.

Apart from passenger growth, network development, penetration of low cost carriers and infrastructure are the major drivers for air travel. PTI RAM ANU ANU

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 14:12 IST

News agency-feeds Asia Pacific region will require 19,560 new planes over 20 years: Airbus

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CJI-designate Surya Kant urges high courts to function like emergency services

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 19:11 IST

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Ranchi, Nov 15 (PTI) Chief Justice of India (Designate) Justice Surya Kant on Saturday emphasised that the judiciarys role goes beyond settling disputes and must also focus on protecting the innocent.

He asserted that the high courts must begin to envision their institutional growth much like a modern hospitals emergency services, ensuring swift, decisive and effective responses.

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Addressing the silver jubilee celebrations of the Jharkhand High Court, which coincided with the states foundation day, Justice Kant recalled his first case, an urgent plea for visitation rights in a cross-border custody dispute involving two minor children..

Justice is not only about resolving disputes, but about protecting the innocent from being lost in the storms of circumstance," the Supreme Court Judge said.

He noted that the parents were separated by national boundaries and years of litigation, but the most striking aspect was the quiet anguish of the children, caught between competing jurisdictions and uncertain futures." He said that experience underscored how institutions must embody empathy and resolve.

Justice Kant said high courts must envision their development similar to emergency wards in hospitals, which specialise in responding swiftly.

In the same way that an emergency ward cannot afford delay, our courts too must aspire to that level of preparedness, efficiency, and coordinated response," he said.

He called for strengthening technological capacity, streamlining procedures, building specialised expertise, and ensuring judicial processes adapt instantly to emerging situations.

Only with such foresight can the judiciary continue to deliver timely and effective remedies, rising to every challenge with the speed and clarity that a constitutional democracy demands," he said.

These are not mere administrative ideas; they are the next step in the evolution of access to justice, he said.

Positioned between district courts and the Supreme Court, the high courts function as the bridge between the citizen and the Constitution," he added.

Justice Kant highlighted the importance of adaptability in judicial institutions, arguing that their strength lies not only in landmark judgments but in their capacity to innovate.

He emphasised the growing need for technological integration  e-filing systems, real-time case tracking and accessible digital platforms  to ensure that justice remains within reach for all, especially those in remote areas or facing physical barriers.

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He also warned that Indian courts must prepare for an era shaped by cybercrime, digital evidence, climate-related disputes, resource conflicts, and increasing caseloads.

These challenges, he said, demand a complete rethinking of traditional judicial models. PTI NAM MNB

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 19:11 IST

News agency-feeds CJI-designate Surya Kant urges high courts to function like emergency services

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Demonstrators take to streets of Belem at halfway point of UN climate talks

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 20:41 IST

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Belem, Nov 15 (AP) Some wore black dresses to signify a funeral for fossil fuels. Hundreds wore red shirts, symbolising the blood of colleagues fighting to protect the environment. And others chanted, waved huge flags or held up signs Saturday in whats traditionally the biggest day of protest at the halfway point of annual United Nations climate talks.

Organisers with booming sound systems on trucks with raised platforms directed protesters from a wide range of environmental and social movements. Marisol Garcia, a Kichwa woman from Peru marching at the head of one group, said protesters are there to put pressure on world leaders to make more humanised decisions." The demonstrators planned to walk about 4 kilometres (about 2.5 miles) on a route that will take them near the main venue for the talks, known as COP30.

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Protesters earlier this week twice disrupted the talks by surrounding the venue, including an incident Tuesday where two security guards suffered minor injuries. Saturdays march was scheduled to stop short of the venue, where a full day of sessions was planned.

Many of the protesters revelled in a freedom to demonstrate more openly than at recent climate talks held in more authoritarian countries, including Azerbaijan, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt.

Youth leader Ana Heloisa Alves, 27, said it was the biggest climate march she has been part of. This is incredible," she said. You cant ignore all these people." Alves was at the march to fight for the Tapajos River, which the Brazilian government wants to develop commercially. The river is for the people," her groups signs read.

Pablo Neri, coordinator in the Brazilian state of Para for the Movimento dos Trabajadores Rurais Sem Terra, an organisation for rural workers, said organizers of the talks should involve more people to reflect a climate movement that is shifting toward popular participation.

The United States, where President Donald Trump has ridiculed climate change as a scam and withdrawn from the landmark 2015 Paris Agreement that sought to limit Earths warming, is skipping the talks.

One demonstrator, Flavio Pinto of Para state, took aim at the US Wearing a brown suit and an oversized American flag top hat, he shifted his weight back and forth on stilts and fanned himself with fake hundred-dollar bills with Trumps face on them. Imperialism produces wars and environmental crises," his sign read.

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Vitoria Balbina, a regional coordinator for the Interstate Movement of Coconut Breakers of Babacu, marched with a group of mostly women wearing domed hats made with fronds of the Babacu palm. They were calling for more access to the trees on private property that provide not only their livelihoods but also a deep cultural significance. She said marching is not only about fighting and resistance on a climate and environment front, but also about a way of life." The marchers formed a sea of red, white and green flags as they progressed up a hill. A crowd of onlookers gathered outside a corner supermarket to watch them approach, leaning over a railing and taking cellphone photos. Beautiful," said a man passing by, carrying grocery bags.

The climate talks are scheduled to run through Friday. Analysts and some participants have said they dont expect any major new agreements to emerge from the talks, but are hoping for progress on some past promises, including money to help poor countries adapt to climate change. (AP) GSP

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 20:41 IST

News agency-feeds Demonstrators take to streets of Belem at halfway point of UN climate talks

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Embraer sees huge opportunities in Indian market, says executive

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 18:26 IST

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Bangkok, Nov 15 (PTI) Brazilian aerospace major Embraer is looking to tap the huge opportunities" in the Indian aviation market as its aircraft can provide competitive seat cost for the operators, according to a senior executive.

Currently, Embraer, whose E-Jets began operations in India in 2005, has nearly 50 aircraft in the country serving the Indian Air Force, government agencies, business jet operators and commercial airline Star Air.

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At a briefing here on Saturday, Raul Villaron, Senior Vice President  Head of Region for Asia Pacific at Embraer, said the aircraft maker is targeting the Indian market because it is an untapped market in Asia.

India is a market with lowest yields worldwide if you dont have seat cost that is competitive, then it is very difficult to make it work.

With E195-E2 (aircraft) and high density seat configuration, the seat cost is very competitive," he said.

He was speaking on the sidelines of 69th Assembly of Presidents of the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) here.

Embraers E195-E2 can have up to 146 seats.

India is seen as a cost-conscious aviation market and airlines are of the view that airfares in the country are quite competitive.

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According to Villaron, in India, there is also a sizeable turboprop fleet that can be replaced while the biggest opportunity is the blue ocean opportunity or markets where nobody is flying.

On October 17, Embraer inaugurated its office in Delhi as the company seeks to strengthen its presence in the countrys commercial aviation, defence, business aviation, services and support, and urban air mobility segments. PTI RAM HVA

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 18:26 IST

News agency-feeds Embraer sees huge opportunities in Indian market, says executive

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Heavy rainfall warning in TN, govt asks districts to take precautionary measures

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 23:56 IST

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Chennai, Nov 15 (PTI) The Tamil Nadu government on Saturday urged the administration of various districts to take necessary precautionary measures in view of heavy rainfall warning issued by the India Meteorological Department.

The government said due to the presence of an upper air circulation, a low pressure has formed over the parts of the southeast Sri Lanka coasts and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal as of 8.30 am of Saturday.

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Referring to the IMD report, the government added that heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely to occur over the northeast, delta and coastal districts of Tamil Nadu in the next four days, an official release said.

The district administration are advised to take all necessary precautionary measures," it said.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected occur in one or two places in Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Thiruvarur and Nagapattinam districts during the next 24 hours.

In the next 24-48 hours, heavy rain to very heavy rainfall is also likely to occur at one or two places in Thanjavur, Pudukottai, Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram and Villupuram.

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Fishermen are advised not to venture into Gulf of Mannar and the Kanniyakumari sea areas, as squally winds are likely to blow at a speed of 35 kmph to 45 kmph with gusts reaching upto 55 kmph, it said.

The situation is being continuously monitored through the state emergency operations centre, the government added. PTI VIJ SKY SKY

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 23:56 IST

News agency-feeds Heavy rainfall warning in TN, govt asks districts to take precautionary measures

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IAF's Su-30MKI fighter jets to take part in bilateral air exercise in France

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 17:26 IST

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New Delhi, Nov 15 (PTI) IAFs Su-30MKI jets will operate alongside French multi-role fighters in complex simulated air combat scenarios, as part of a bilateral exercise to be held from November 16-27, officials said on Saturday.

Air exercise Garuda 25 will be held at Mont-de-Marsan, France.

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The Indian Air Force is participating in the eighth edition of the bilateral air exercise, with the French Air and Space Force (FASF), the defence ministry said.

The IAF contingent arrived in France on November 10, and will be participating with Su-30MKl fighter aircraft.

The airlift support is being provided by the C-17 Globemaster III, for the induction and de-induction phases of the exercise, while the IL-78 air-to-air refuelling tankers are utilised for extending the range and endurance of the participating fighters," the ministry said in a statement.

During the exercise, the IAFs Su-30MKI aircraft will operate alongside French multi-role fighters in complex simulated air combat scenarios, focusing on air-to-air combat, air defence, and joint strike operations," it said.

This exercise aims to refine tactics and procedures in a realistic operational environment", enabling mutual learning and fostering interoperability between the IAF and the FASF, the officials said.

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Exercise Garuda 25 also provides an opportunity for professional interaction, exchange of operational knowledge, and sharing of best practices between the two air forces, they said.

Participation in this exercise underscores the lAFs commitment to engage constructively with friendly foreign air forces through multi-lateral exercises, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation in the field of air operations, they added. PTI KND MNK MNK

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 17:26 IST

News agency-feeds IAF's Su-30MKI fighter jets to take part in bilateral air exercise in France

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India's gems and jewellery exports decline 31 pc in October: GJEPC

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 18:27 IST

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Mumbai, Nov 15 (PTI) Indias gems and jewellery exports declined by 30.57 per cent in October to USD 2,168.05 million (Rs 19,172.890 crore) compared to the same period of previous year, according to industry body GJEPC.

The overall exports of the sector stood at USD 3,122.52 million (Rs 26,237.1 crore) in October 2024, showed the data released by the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC).

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The decline in overall exports in October was mainly due to demand being pushed forward before the US tariff was implemented. Most of the stocking up for the festivals took place before August 27, therefore, in October the demand was down. The decline in gold and silver exports is triggered by volatile bullion prices," GJEPC chairman Kirit Bhansali told PTI.

However, he added that in November the exports are expected to pick up again as the Chinese markets are slowly recovering and there will be Christmas demand in other key markets.

Exports of cut and polished diamonds witnessed a decline of 26.97 per cent at USD 1,025.99 million (Rs 9,071.41 crore) in October compared to USD 1,404.85 million (Rs 11,806.45 crore) recorded in the same period of previous year.

Shipments of polished lab-grown diamonds in October also dipped by 34.90 per cent to USD 94.37 million (Rs 834.45 crore) against USD 144.96 million (Rs 1,218.25 crore) in the corresponding month of the previous year.

Gold jewellery exports also dropped by 28.4 per cent to USD 850.15 million (Rs 7,520.34 crore) compared to USD 1,187.34 million (Rs 9,975.17 crore) in the same period of previous year.

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Similarly, exports of coloured gemstones during April-October saw a decline of 3.21 per cent to USD 250.14 million (in Rs 2,173.08 crore) from USD 258.42 million (Rs 2,163.52 crore) of shipments registered in the year-ago period.

Silver jewellery exports during October dipped by 16 per cent to USD 121.37 million (Rs 1,072.81 crore) compared to USD 145.05 million (Rs 1,219.01 crore) in the same period of 2024, the data showed. PTI SM HVA

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 18:27 IST

News agency-feeds India's gems and jewellery exports decline 31 pc in October: GJEPC

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Jordans King Abdullah II arrives in Pak on first state visit in two decades

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 22:26 IST

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Islamabad, Nov 15 (PTI) Jordans monarch King Abdullah II on Saturday began his two-day state visit to Pakistan, his first trip in over two decades.

Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received the King at Nur Khan Airbase.

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Also present were ministers Musaddiq Malik and Wajiha Qamar as well as First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari and Pakistan Peoples Party chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

King Abdullah II is undertaking the visit on the invitation of Sharif, which is his first official visit by a Jordanian monarch in 21 years, reported Radio Pakistan. PTI SH GSP GSP

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 22:26 IST

News agency-feeds Jordans King Abdullah II arrives in Pak on first state visit in two decades

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Kareena Kapoor Khan, Kiara Advani and others mourn the demise of Kamini Kaushal

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 15:26 IST

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New Delhi, Nov 15 (PTI) Celebrities, including Kareena Kapoor Khan and Kiara Advani, remembered the late actor Kamini Kaushal, one of Hindi cinemas earliest female stars, who left an unforgettable mark" on the industry.

Kaushal died at her Mumbai residence on Thursday night. She was 98. The actor made her debut with Neecha Nagar" in 1946 and was amongst the industrys highest-paid actresses in the late 1940s and early 1950s.

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She starred opposite the triumvirate of Dilip Kumar, Dev Anand and Raj Kapoor before moving on to character roles in the 1960s.

Her last screen appearance was in Aamir Khans 2022 film Laal Singh Chaddha" at the age of 95, making for a remarkable 76 years in the movies.

Advani, who shared the screen with the late actor in the 2019 Kabir Singh", said it was an honour to work with her. It was an honour to work with you. Your grace, humility and talent inspired generations and left an unforgettable mark on Indian cinema. Rest in peace, Kamini Kaushal Ji," she wrote in her Instagram story on Saturday.

Shahid Kapoor, who also starred in the film, shared an Instagram story which featured a collage of Kaushals throwback and a recent picture and wrote, Rest in light maam." Khan uploaded a picture of the late actor on her Instagram story.

Anupam Kher paid his respects to the late actor in a heartfelt X post, calling her a brilliant artist and a beautiful human being" Kamini Kaushal ji was not only a brilliant artist, she was also a beautiful human being. Whenever I met her, she always greeted me with a smile and love, and always offered good advice. Her name will be written in golden letters in the history of Indian cinema! Om Shanti!" his post read.

After the success of Neecha Nagar", Kaushal worked extensively with the triumvirate of Hindi cinema  Dilip Kumar, Dev Anand and Raj Kapoor  in films such as Jail Yatra", Do Bhai", Aag", Shaheed", Nadiya Ke Par", Ziddi", Shabnam" and Arzoo".

She played the lead role in filmmaker Bimal Roys acclaimed 1954 movie Biraj Bahu", which won a National Film Award and earned her a Filmfare award for best actress.

Kaushal also essayed the lead role in the movie adaptation of Premchands famous novel Godaan".

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With Manoj Kumars 1967 hit Upkar", she transitioned to motherly parts on screen. She was just 40 at the time.

Kaushal went on to star in Kumars other hit films such as Purab Aur Paschim", Sanyasi", Shor", Roti Kapda Aur Makaan", Dus Numbari" and Santosh". PTI SMR ATR ATR ATR

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 15:26 IST

News agency-feeds Kareena Kapoor Khan, Kiara Advani and others mourn the demise of Kamini Kaushal

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Karnataka Minister M B Patil launches Nidec's Rs 600 crore Orchard Hub

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 19:12 IST

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Bengaluru, Nov 15 (PTI) Karnataka Minister for Large and Medium Industries M B Patil on Saturday launched the Orchard Hub established at a cost of Rs 600 crore by Japan-based company, Nidec, in the Belur Industrial Area of Dharwad.

Speaking on the occasion, he recalled performing the ground-breaking ceremony for the hub five months ago. The State Government, he said, provided all the facilities sought by the company. In turn, Nidec has invested substantial capital and set up this modern centre in record time  an achievement he described as commendable.

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In a statement issued by his office, Patil noted that the Nidec Orchard Hub is an innovation- and technology-driven industrial centre that will bring together new industrial ideas and research. Ultimately, he said, it will help create a strong pathway for industrial growth.

According to the statement, this is one of the largest investments by a Japanese company in the northern Karnataka region. The project is expected to create local employment opportunities and bring indirect benefits to surrounding communities.

The minister added that under the States new industrial policy, several measures have been introduced to encourage companies to set up their units outside Bengaluru.

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Patil further recalled that several Japanese companies, including Nidec, have already established operations in Karnataka, which also houses a Japanese Industrial Township.

He mentioned that during his recent visit to Japan, investments worth Rs 4,500 crore were confirmed for the State, while earlier visits to Japan and South Korea had resulted in commitments totalling Rs 6,000 crore. PTI AMP ADB

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 19:12 IST

News agency-feeds Karnataka Minister M B Patil launches Nidec's Rs 600 crore Orchard Hub

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Fei Chen: Thank you, Robert. And good day to everyone on the call. There is a lot of optimism for the future based on the execution during the third quarter. Not simply because of the growth in revenues, improvement in gross margins, and reduction in operating expenses, but also due to the strong order books during the third quarter, which sets the stage for a nice fourth quarter. A key driver during the quarter was the strength within our water treatment systems business, led by our swimming pool vertical, which achieved its highest quarterly revenue to date. Equally important is that the new bookings received during the quarter indicate a continuation of this positive trend.

The company, therefore, encourages all listeners not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which pertain only as of the date of the release and the conference call. The company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect any events or circumstances that may arise after the date of the release and conference call. With that, I'd like to turn the call over to Fei Chen, Chief Executive Officer of LiqTech International, Inc. Fei, please proceed.

Although the forward-looking statements reflect the good faith and judgment of management, forward-looking statements are inherently subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to be materially different from those discussed during the conference call. The company, therefore, urges all listeners to carefully review and consider the various disclosures made in the reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including risk factors that attempt to advise interested parties of the risks that may affect our business, financial condition, operations, and cash flows. If one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize or if the underlying assumptions prove incorrect, the company's actual results may vary materially from those expected or projected.

Fei Chen, the company's Chief Executive Officer, and David Kowalczyk, the company's Chief Financial and Chief Operating Officer. Before I turn it over to management, I do want to remind everyone that there will be a Q&A at the end. To ask a question through the webcast portal, again, simply type your question into the ask a question feature in the webcast player. Before we begin with prepared remarks, we submit for the record the following statement. This conference call may contain forward-looking statements.

Story Continues

It is clear that the market is increasingly recognizing the unique attributes of our ClariFlow filtration system and the competing alternative it offers to traditional media filtration systems used in commercial pools. Beyond the swimming pool vertical, we are making progress in a number of other applications which leverage our robust silicon carbide membrane technology, including water for energy, industry applications, and the marine industry. The increased order flow and interest is the direct result of the numerous successful pilot programs we have implemented over the past two years, showing the success of our systems in real-world examples.

We have long emphasized that this transformation would take time, and we now believe that we are on the verge of broad adoption of our systems across multiple market verticals. Where system sales are the ultimate measure of success, we have spent considerable effort rightsizing the business and electing operational efficiencies to drive down costs, both from an OpEx perspective as well as from a manufacturing side. During the quarter, our contribution margin was one of the highest levels we have seen over the past five years, and the gross profit was at 19.6%, also at an improved level. Further, our operating expenses are at their lowest levels in many years.

Let me circle back on a few of the key activities during the quarter, starting with the swimming pool vertical. As mentioned, we delivered systems to six customers during the quarter, totaling $1,000,000 in revenue. The systems delivered were much larger in size than many of our historical systems, and it really highlights the progress we are making within the larger swimming pool systems. The orders delivered during the quarter were fulfilled through our partners Boundary and Total Pool in the UK and Oxidime in Spain. These partners have been instrumental to our success, particularly as we have strengthened our collaborations in the past three years.

During the quarter, we continued to expand our pipeline within our key markets, including systems in the UK, Denmark, and Holland. This really shows the depth of what we have accomplished in the past few years, building these relationships, but also the internal team's role in helping move projects forward and showcase what is possible with our solutions. Another key development within our swimming pool solutions has been the development of the modular design system, which allows for ease of deployment. Since I took over, we have worked hard to move away from many customized solutions, which often take too long to create and cost too much money. Further, it created too much confusion among customers.

This theme of creating a modular design system and driving down costs is not just applicable to our swimming pool vertical but across other applications as well. To that point, we are working with our joint venture partners in China to reduce the cost of components and assembly of our marine water treatment systems, making them more competitive in the market. We will continue manufacturing the silicon carbide membrane in Denmark, but we are also exploring the potential to leverage our Chinese assembly and sourcing capabilities to drive cost reductions across our systems and applications.

Another exciting development we are seeing in our China joint venture has been the receipt of two first orders for marine dual-fuel engine water treatment systems. The marine CP industry is moving towards cleaner, fuel-efficient applications, with most new vessels equipped with dual-fuel engines that require reliable water treatment for exhaust gas recirculation systems. According to published data, approximately 400 new vessels are on order with ISO EGR solutions planned between 2024 and 2027. One of the two marine dual-fuel engine orders is scheduled to be delivered here in the first quarter, with the other set for delivery in early 2026. We believe more opportunities are on the horizon.

Transitioning from China to the US, we have talked about this for a while now, but the water for energy market is rapidly growing within the US. We have worked with partners such as Resubac Direct and Renewal Resources lately to build a presence in the US. For this reason, we have moved forward with the opening of a dedicated service center near Fort Worth, Texas. The new facility is being launched in partnership with Hydro Systems and opened a few weeks ago. For those not familiar, Hydro is an industry service provider with extensive experience in energy, oil and gas, and industry sectors. They specialize in equipment servicing, maintenance, and field support.

The center will strengthen support for our water for energy business segment, offering deployment of certified service technicians, availability of critical spare parts, remote and on-site technical support, and system maintenance and repairs. As we scale our operations in the US, this new service center allows us to respond faster and support customers with deep local knowledge and reflects our strategy to offer fully integrated filtration solutions, from engineering and commissioning to lifetime service. On the topic of new system deployment, we are actively engaged with several end customers and hope to have updates to share soon.

Taking a step back, I think it is important to remind everyone of the number of new systems that we have deployed during the past couple of years. Since the beginning of last year, we have deployed nine pilots or commercial systems across a wide range of industry applications, from multiple oil and gas industry systems to lithium brine production, plastic removal from a US petrochemical company, MEG recovery, tomato processing, the broader marine industry, and the most recent order of an advanced membrane-based filtration system to treat oily wastewater to BlueScope Steel, a major US-based steel producer.

We are establishing a consistent cadence for large system deliveries each quarter, alongside our base business, including swimming pools, plastics, and DPF filters, bringing us closer to revenue levels that approach breakeven and profitability. This has been our goal, and I am very pleased with the progress we have made. Let me now turn the call over to David to review the finances in more detail. I will then make a few closing comments and look to open the call for your questions.

David Kowalczyk: Thank you, Fei. And good day, everyone. Let me take some time diving into the financial results in a bit more detail and add some color to what was in the press release. So let's start with revenue. Revenue for the quarter came in at $3,800,000, up from $2,500,000 in the year-ago third quarter. Broken down by verticals, sales for the third quarter were as follows: Water system sales and related services of $2,000,000 compared to $700,000 in the same period last year. CPF and ceramic membrane sales were $800,000, down from $1,100,000 in Q3 last year. And finally, plastic revenue came in at $1,000,000 compared to $700,000 in Q3 last year.

The key takeaways for the quarter include strong year-over-year improvement in water systems, driven by a combination of multiple swimming pool orders and the remaining portion of the industrial order for the steel industry. Growth in plastics, which was up 54% due to strong external interest, especially within food processing and the upgrade of our production facility in Q3 last year. And stabilization of DPFs and ceramic membranes sequentially but still off the year-ago quarter. Looking ahead to Q4 of 2025, we anticipate revenue to be between $4,600,000 and $5,600,000, which would equate to a 38% to 67% increase from Q4 2024.

For the full year 2025, we expect revenue to be between $18,000,000 and $19,000,000, representing a 23% to 30% increase compared to 2024. We do want to note that we do want to be cautious and provide a slight change to guidance solely driven by timing in purchase orders in our systems business. The visibility we have to receive formal purchase orders for two systems during 2024 are likely shifting to 2026. Turning to gross margin, as we continue to be below our optimal revenue level, we continue to have fixed production costs that are not being fully absorbed. Those lower the normalized gross margins.

That said, for the third quarter, gross margins were much improved from the year-ago period, coming in at 19.6% compared to a negative margin of 8.5% in the year-ago period. We had previously reported on a contribution margin basis, which excludes the impact from our fixed overhead. This margin for the quarter was significantly higher. The gap between gross margin and contribution margin will narrow in the coming quarters, driven by cost improvements and volume growth. Turning to OpEx, total operating expenses for the quarter were $2,100,000 compared to $2,400,000 in Q3 last year and compared to $2,600,000 in 2025.

As we look to the future, our breakeven target, measured on an adjusted EBITDA basis, measured at EBITDA adjusted for amortization, reduced assets, cost of stock-based compensation, continues to be a quarterly revenue of approximately $6,000,000. The one caveat I will state is that there's a product mix component to it. Concluding on the P&L, net loss was $1,500,000 for the quarter, compared to a $2,800,000 loss for the comparable period of 2025. A substantial improvement driven by revenue growth, improved gross margin, and reduced operating expenses. And finally, from a cash perspective, we ended the quarter with $7,300,000 in cash. Everything else was very much in line with our normal operating procedures from a balance sheet perspective.

And with that, let me turn it back to Fei.

Fei Chen: Thank you, David. Can you hear me?

Robert Blum: Yes. Please proceed, sir.

Fei Chen: Okay. Thank you, David. To close things out, before I turn the call over to questions, our proprietary silicon carbide filtration technology stands as a foundational element in tackling the planet's most urgent ecological issues. These cutting-edge ceramic membranes deliver exceptional results in the toughest water treatment scenarios, spanning from produced water in oil and gas operations to pool filtration systems. By helping industries comply with rigorous environmental standards, we are cutting down on water and energy use, resolving vital purification problems, and advancing true sustainability.

Recent achievements, like landing record orders for swimming pool systems, major contracts for treating produced water, marine applications, and industry applications such as that for the steel industry, highlight the rising worldwide appetite for our innovative solutions. The potential moving forward is immense, fueled by escalating water shortages and tough global regulations. Through key client alliances, we are broadening our impact with application-oriented, ready-to-deploy solutions. Such partnerships enhance our capability to offer complete systems that guarantee regulatory adherence, streamline operations, safeguard assets, and lower costs for customers. In the years to come, we are dedicated to advancing and expanding our filtration solutions to seize these vast possibilities. Again, thank everyone for your support of LiqTech International, Inc.

With that, Robert, we would be happy to take any questions.

Robert Blum: Alright. Fantastic. Thank you very much, Fei and David, for your prepared remarks. Again, to everyone listening on the webcast player there, if you have a question, you can type it into the ask a question feature on the player there. We do have a few questions submitted already. We'll begin here. Besides swimming pool systems, which segments are seeing the most sustained order momentum?

Fei Chen: As mentioned in my speech, we have very much momentum in the water for energy segment as well. And we are also starting to get orders from the marine industry. But I would say compared to the marine industry, it's just that the water for energy is getting momentum.

Robert Blum: Okay. Very good. Next question here. Is the uptick in gross margin sustainable? Where do you see gross margins trending over the next few quarters? David?

David Kowalczyk: Yeah. Sure. Thanks for the question. I would say, yes, this is very much sustainable, and with expected higher revenues, we will see also further increases in the gross margin. There's a strong link between the size of revenue and really the gross margin. So talking about a defined level, I think it's hard, but we will see increases with an increase in revenue.

Robert Blum: Okay. Very good. Next question here is how is your capacity utilization trending? Are there any metrics you can provide there?

David Kowalczyk: Yeah. Obviously, we have different matrices for capacity and also different sites. But I think, in general, it's fair to say that we have spare capacity, which is also why we provide the insight on the difference between gross margin and contribution margin. We have plenty of capacity to support growth with very, very limited investments.

Robert Blum: Alright. Very good. Again, final reminder here, if you have a question or would like to submit a question through the webcast player, please go ahead and submit that now. Barring any further questions coming in, the last question here is what would be a reasonable target for 2026 revenue growth?

Fei Chen: That's a very good question. We're actually in the process of making our budget for 2026, so we cannot say any concrete number yet, but we definitely believe and see a very strong growth trend in 2026.

Robert Blum: Okay. Very good. I am not showing any further questions at this time. So with that, I will turn it back over to you, Fei, for any closing remarks.

Fei Chen: Thank you, everyone. I would like to thank you all very much for being with us today. We look forward to communicating with you soon. Thank you.

Operator: Thank you. The conference has now concluded.

Robert Blum: Thank you for attending today's presentation. You may now disconnect.

Operator: Thank you.

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This article is a transcript of this conference call produced for The Motley Fool. While we strive for our Foolish Best, there may be errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this transcript. As with all our articles, The Motley Fool does not assume any responsibility for your use of this content, and we strongly encourage you to do your own research, including listening to the call yourself and reading the company's SEC filings. Please see our Terms and Conditions for additional details, including our Obligatory Capitalized Disclaimers of Liability.

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LiqTech (LIQT) Q3 2025 Earnings Call Transcript was originally published by The Motley Fool
Major Pak-linked narcotics racket busted, two held with 3 kg heroin in Jammu

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 20:41 IST

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Jammu, Nov 15 (PTI) Police on Saturday claimed to have busted a Pakistan-linked narcotics racket with the arrest of two peddlers here with three kilograms of heroin, valued at around Rs 15 crore.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Jammu, Joginder Singh, said a patrol party led by sub-divisional police officer (SDPO), south, and the SHO of Gandhi Nagar police station arrested the duo from near a crematorium in Shastri Nagar.

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In total, 3.260 kg of heroin was seized from the peddlers, he said, terming the recovery a big catch" and a significant blow" to drug traffickers in the region.

Police are probing the matter after registering a case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the officer said.

The peddlers are part of a major racket linked to Pakistan-based and Punjab-based smugglers. At least seven more members of the gang have been identified, and efforts are on to bring all the culprits to book," the SSP told reporters here.

Explaining the modus operandi of the racket, he said the traffickers used to smuggle narcotics through drones into Punjab from Pakistan and send couriers from Jammu to receive the consignment and distribute it here.

The arrested accused is part of the supply chain, and this is the seventh racket busted by police this year. So far, 22 peddlers were arrested," the police officer said.

Seeking public support to eradicate the menace of drugs from society, the SSP requested people to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station. Those involved in drug trafficking will not be spared," he said.

Meanwhile, a police spokesperson said dozens of bank accounts involved in the drugs trade in Poonch district have been seized.

The action comes as part of an intensified crackdown on narcotics networks operating in the region, aimed at disrupting their financial lifelines and curbing the flow of illegal funds, he said.

During financial investigations, many accounts under scrutiny were found to have unusually high-volume transactions that raised suspicion, the spokesperson said.

He said these accounts were used to allegedly route proceeds from the sale and distribution of narcotics across multiple districts.

By freezing the bank accounts, authorities have effectively prevented the accused from withdrawing or diverting money that could have been used to further fuel illegal activities, the spokesperson said.

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He said this action of the police is part of a broader strategy to dismantle the economic foundations of drug trafficking groups by targeting not only the traffickers but also their financial channels, associates, and facilitators.

Further investigations are underway, and more seizures and attachments may follow as the financial investigations continue, he said, adding that police have also attached immovable properties worth crores as proceeds of drug sales in Poonch district two days ago. PTI TAS TAS NSD NSD

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 20:41 IST

News agency-feeds Major Pak-linked narcotics racket busted, two held with 3 kg heroin in Jammu

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Man allegedly forcibly converted to Islam, married: Police

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 17:26 IST

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Mau (UP), Nov 15 (PTI) A case was registered here after a 25-year-old Hindu man from UPs Mau district was allegedly forcibly converted to Islam after being taken to Assam and married, police said on Saturday.

Additional Superintendent of Police Anoop Kumar said that the man, identified as Vishal Singh, worked at a dental clinic. A case has been registered in this connection on Wednesday under the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021.

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He said that a detailed investigation is being conducted to determine the circumstances under which he was forced to convert.

Legal action will be taken against those found guilty," he said.

Police sources told PTI that Vishal Singhs family had moved a local court, and based on its orders, the case was registered.

According to a petition filed by Viashals mother, Rinki, he worked at a dental clinic in Mau city in 2022. During this time, Sunaina Parveen (22), a resident of Muradpur village of Ambedkar Nagar district, took him to her village. When the young man returned home, the woman arrived at his house with the police and assaulted him, it is alleged.

The complaint alleged that Sunaina lured" Vishal into a love affair and took him to her home in Ambedkar Nagar in 2022. After torturing" him for two years in Ambedkar Nagar, Sunaina and her family took Vishal to her maternal grandmothers home in Assam.

Sunainas father and other family members forcibly converted Vishal to Islam, married him to her and forced him to offer namaz in a mosque, it is alleged. The accused also filmed the entire process.

Fed up with the harassment, Vishal fled and returned to his home in Mau in July 2025, narrating the entire incident to his family and showing them the video.

Vishals family alleged that a complaint was filed at the Kotwali police station and then to the Superintendent of Police, but no action was taken.

However, the police sources asserted that Vishals family did not lodge any police complaint.

Vishals father, Vijay Bahadur Singh, claimed that they remained silent due to threats. He alleged that the police supported Sunainas family and no one listened to their plight.

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The Additional SP said that a detailed investigation is underway to determine the circumstances under which Sunainas family members allegedly pressured Vishal Singh to convert.

He said that action will be taken against those found guilty. A case has been registered in this matter, and whoever is found guilty will not be spared," the Additional SP said. PTI COR NAV RT RT

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 17:26 IST

News agency-feeds Man allegedly forcibly converted to Islam, married: Police

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Man stabbed to death in Delhis Govindpuri; prime accused arrested

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 15:26 IST

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New Delhi, Nov 15 (PTI) A 23-year-old man was stabbed to death during a quarrel in southeast Delhis Govindpuri area, police said on Saturday.

Police have arrested the prime accused  Aman alias Buddha (19)  they said.

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A PCR call was received around 10 pm on Friday reporting a stabbing incident. When police reached the spot, they found the victim with two deep stab wounds  one on the neck and another on the abdomen.

He was rushed to the AIIMS Trauma Centre, where doctors declared him dead, a senior police officer said.

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The crime team examined the spot and collected forensic samples, while investigators scanned CCTV footage and conducted field inquiries to identify those involved, leading to the arrest of Aman.

Preliminary investigation suggests that the attack was triggered by a personal dispute between the victim and the accused, the officer said, adding that search operations are underway to trace the others suspected to be involved in the attack. PTI SSJ SMV SMV ARI ARI

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 15:26 IST

News agency-feeds Man stabbed to death in Delhis Govindpuri; prime accused arrested

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Pujara expects Samson to settle at CSK quickly; backs Jadeja to add value to RR

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 22:56 IST

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New Delhi [India], November 15 (ANI): Former India batting icon Cheteshwar Pujara believes Chennai Super Kings latest acquisition, Sanju Samson, will settle into the new setup quickly and thrive at Chepauk, considering the surface is tailor-made for his style of play. The Super Kings acquired Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson, who was a part of the franchise for more than a decade across two stints, through a trade deal. In return, Chennai sent its stalwart Ravindra Jadeja and England all-rounder Sam Curran to Rajasthan. Samson will don the CSKs yellow at his existing price of Rs 18 crore, while Jadejas league fee has been revised from Rs 18 crore to Rs 14 crore. Curran, who was included to sweeten the deal, moved to Rajasthan at his existing price of Rs 2.4 crore. Pujara, who was part of Chennais setup in 2021, expects Samson to settle into CSKs welcoming environment" quickly. This will be an emotional moment for Sanju because he has been playing for the Rajasthan Royals for so many years. But where he is going, that is CSK, they are a very welcoming unit, and they create a very welcoming environment. So, Sanju Samson will get settled at CSK very soon. Thats what I feel because I have been part of CSK," Pujara said on JioHotstar. I know how the CSK environment is and how the players feel. Thats why I feel he will fit in the CSK unit very soon. And with the crowd and environment in Chennai, Sanju Samsons game will suit the wicket a lot," he added. Jadeja, who spent 12 seasons with the five-time champions, across two stints, has been instrumental to the Super Kings success. The announcement of Jadeja joining the Royals left Pujara shocked. As a new challenge awaits the veteran spin bowling all-rounder, Pujara expects the 36-year-old to thrive with his prime form and simultaneously add more value to Rajasthans team. There was a lot of discussion around Sanju Samson and Ravindra Jadeja, but no one knew if Ravindra Jadeja would really leave CSK. But when this confirmed news came today, it was very shocking. This is going to be a new challenge for Jadeja for sure. But if you talk about Jadeja as a player, he is in his prime form now. Yes, he is getting older. But the form he is going through as a batsman and as a bowler, especially in the Test format and T20 format, I think he will add more value to the Rajasthan team there," Pujara said. And personally, a lot of times you want to prove yourself as a player, and this is the right time for him to make a difference. He will get the full quota of 4 overs in Rajasthan. He will bowl higher in bowling. So as a player, he also has to prove. And the impact he will bring to the team will be very big," he concluded. (ANI)

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 22:56 IST

News agency-feeds Pujara expects Samson to settle at CSK quickly; backs Jadeja to add value to RR

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Rajasthan ACB arrests woman head constable for taking Rs 20,000 bribe

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 14:11 IST

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Jaipur, Nov 16 (PTI) The Rajasthan Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Saturday arrested a woman head constable in Jhunjhunu district for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 20,000, officials said.

According to the ACB, Head Constable Santosh, posted at Buhana police station, was caught red-handed while taking the bribe from a complainant.

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The complainant had alleged that a case related to a family dispute involving him, his brother and uncle was registered at Buhana police station and was being investigated by the accused head constable.

Santosh had allegedly demanded Rs 30,000 to remove the names of the complainant and his brother from the case and ensure his brother was not arrested, the ACB said in a statement.

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During verification of the complaint, it was revealed that the accused police officer had allegedly accepted Rs 3,000 and Rs 7,000 from the complainant on two separate occasions, it said.

Subsequently, the ACB team laid a trap on Saturday and apprehended Head Constable Santosh while she was allegedly receiving the remaining Rs 20,000, the ACB said, adding that further investigation is underway. PTI AG ARB ARB ARB ARB

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 14:11 IST

News agency-feeds Rajasthan ACB arrests woman head constable for taking Rs 20,000 bribe

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Rajkummar Rao and Patralekha welcome first child

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 12:11 IST

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New Delhi, Nov 15 (PTI) Bollywood actors Rajkummar Rao and Patralekha have welcomed their first child, a baby girl, on their fourth wedding anniversary.

Rajkummar, 41, and Patralekha, 35, announced the news with an Instagram post on Saturday.

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We are over the moon. God has blessed us with a baby girl. Blessed Parents  Patralekhaa and Rajkummar," was written over the poster.

The greatest blessing God has given us on our 4th wedding anniversary," they wrote in the caption.

The announcement received congratulatory comments from other celebrities such as Vicky Kaushal, Sonam Kapoor Ahuja, Dia Mirza, Ali Fazal, Vaani Kapoor, Esha Gupta, Anil Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Varun Dhawan, among others.

Rajkummar and Patralekha tied the knot on November 15, 2021, at The Oberoi Sukhvilas Resort in New Chandigarh after an 11-year relationship.

The two announced the pregnancy in July via a joint Instagram post with a graphic reading Baby on the way".

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Patralekha was last seen in the biographical film Phule" alongside Pratik Gandhi essaying the role of Savitribai Phule. The film released in April.

Rajkummars latest films include Bhool Chuk Maaf" and Maalik", he also appeared as himself in a cameo in the Netflix series The Ba***ds of Bollywood". PTI SMR ATR SMR ATR ATR

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 12:11 IST

News agency-feeds Rajkummar Rao and Patralekha welcome first child

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SS Rajamouli''s next movie titled ''Varanasi'', to release in January 2027

Last Updated: November 16, 2025, 00:41 IST

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Hyderabad, Nov 15 (PTI) Filmmaker S S Rajamouli on Saturday unveiled the title of his next mega project, Varanasi", at a grand fan event held at Ramoji Film City in the presence of its stars Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran.

The film marks Rajamoulis first collaboration with Telugu superstar Babu, who plays the lead role of Rudhra. It will be released worldwide in January 2027, coinciding with the festival of Sankranti.

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The grand Globe Trotter" event drew about 50,000 fans who witnessed a specially staged live spectacle. A teaser for Varanasi" was scheduled to play on a massive 130 ft x 100 ft screen but a technical glitch delayed the screening. The clip was eventually showcased to the audience, which greeted it with roars and applause.

The short teaser showed stunning visuals spanning different places and periods  Antarctica, Varanasi, Kenya, 512 CE, 2027 CE, and even the Threthayuga. Towards the end, the teaser shows a striking shot of Babu riding a bull and holding a trident as he charges through Varanasi, clad in a blood-soaked shirt and a Nandi pendant.

The event also gave a glimpse into the characters of Sukumaran, who plays the antagonist Kumbha, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas in a gun-toting avatar as Mandakini.

Babu, known for blockbusters such as Athadu", Pokiri", and Dookudu", said he was indebted" to his fans for their unwavering support.

I am indebted to my fans for their love and affection. It has been a long time. I am doing all these feats to impress you. This event is only to reveal the title  there is a lot more to come," the 50-year-old told the cheering crowd.

Calling Varanasi" a dream project, Babu said the whole country would be proud of the movie. He also recalled his late father Krishnas wish that he take up mythological roles.

My dad always wanted me to do mythological films because he believed they suited my personality. I didnt listen back then. Today, he would be blessing me from the skies," he said.

Rajamouli, whose last three films  Baahubali: The Beginning", Baahubali: The Conclusion" and RRR"  were humongous successes, thanked the films producer KL Narayan for bringing him and Babu together.

I used to tell the story of my films during press meets. I didnt do it for Baahubali because you cant tell it away for certain films. In this one, we cant just sum it up in words, but we need to set audiences expectations somehow. So we came with a video to show the scale of this film," the director said.

Rajamouli also remembered Krishna and praised the late actor for introducing various technologies to Telugu cinema.

He was a pioneer in innovation and raised the bar for Telugu cinema. Now, as I work with his son, superstar Mahesh Babu, we are introducing a new technology  Premier Large-Scale Format filmed for IMAX with Mahesh Babu," he said.

The director added that earlier films were simply enlarged to suit IMAX screens, but the new format marks a significant shift.

But this technology ensures that the larger-than-life image perfectly complements the movie," he said.

Chopra Jonas, who returns to Indian cinema after 2019s The Sky Is Pink", said she was delighted to be part of a Telugu film of this scale. She essays the role of the female lead Mandakini in the movie.

This is the land where cinema is the celebration. Im so happy to be back making this movie in my beloved India. Ive said this before, and Ill say it again, the best and the only way to join Telugu cinema is to do it with the greats. I feel very lucky to have worked with such great stalwarts," she said.

The 43-year-old actor hailed Rajamouli as a visionary that has brought Indian cinema to the globe, like no one else has before". I thank you for choosing me as your Mandakini," she added.

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About Babu, she said, There are many names for him but I know him as MB, as the incredible, the legendary Mahesh Babu. You, your beautiful family  Namrata and Sitara  have made me feel like Hyderabad is my home. Thank you so much for treating me like family and making this experience so wonderful for me." Sukumaran, who stars as the antagonist Kumbha, said it was the most emotionally and physically demanding role of his career.

The actor said he was thoroughly impressed by Rajamoulis narration and added, The scale, the vision, the ambition  everything was Indias greatest contemporary mainstream filmmaker pushing his own limits into never-before territory. But what truly took my breath away was the audacity of the imagination." Varanasi" will feature music by MM Keeravani, who won an Oscar for Rajamoulis previous film RRR". It is produced by Sri Durga Arts and Showing Business. PTI RB BK RB

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First Published: November 16, 2025, 00:41 IST

News agency-feeds SS Rajamouli''s next movie titled ''Varanasi'', to release in January 2027

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Two men dead after speeding vehicle hit their scooter in UP's Muzaffarnagar

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 14:11 IST

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Muzaffarnagar (UP), Nov 15 (PTI) Two employees of a paper mill were killed after an unidentified speeding vehicle hit the scooter on which they were going to their factory in Nai Mandi area here on Saturday, police said.

According to the police, the deceased have been identified as Vikky (25) and Abhay (20), both residents of Muzaffarnagar district.

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The bodies of the deceased have been sent for post-mortem and efforts are on to nab the driver of the unknown vehicle, Nai Mandi Circle Officer Raju Kumar Sab said. PTI COR NAV SHS SHS

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 14:11 IST

News agency-feeds Two men dead after speeding vehicle hit their scooter in UP's Muzaffarnagar

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UP: Man detained for posing as MLA, staying in hotel for free

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 22:56 IST

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Agra (UP), Nov 15 (PTI) Two Delhi residents were detained here, with one of them allegedly posing as an MLA and staying in a hotel for 18 days without paying the room charges, officials said on Saturday.

The accused were identified as Vinod and his associate Manoj, residents of Tughlakabad in Delhi. According to the police, Vinod introduced himself as an MLA and used this false claim to intimidate the hotel staff. When the hotel owner, Pawan, asked for payment, Vinod allegedly tried to assert his influence, following which Pawan filed a complaint with the police.

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The hotel owner complained that two men had been staying for 18 days, and one of them was claiming to be an MLA and refusing to pay the charges. Acting on this information, the police reached the spot," Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Imran said. During questioning, the police found that Vinod was not an MLA, after which both men were taken into custody. A car with MP" written on it and fitted with a hooter was also recovered from them and has been seized.

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Investigations further revealed that the duo visited several shops and restaurants in recent days, allegedly flaunting this fake identity.

Police said both men are currently being interrogated. PTI COR CDN MPL MPL

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First Published: November 15, 2025, 22:56 IST

News agency-feeds UP: Man detained for posing as MLA, staying in hotel for free

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Capricorn Horoscope Today, November 15, 2025

Curated By :

GaneshaGrace

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 06:55 IST

Capricorn Daily Horoscope, November 15, 2025: Capricorn faces financial complications but earns respect and family pride. Support from elders and organized routine bring relief.

Capricorn Horoscope Today: Astrological predictions by Chirag Daruwalla for makara rashi on November 15 2025. (AI generated image)

Capricorn Daily Horoscope Today, November 15 2025: Ganesha says today you will be entitled to receive respect for all other tasks except money-related tasks. Financial complications will trouble you in some form or the other from the beginning to the end of the day. Even after completing the work on time, you will have to wait for the inflow of money. Getting support from an elderly person will provide relief from some complications. You will have to take out time after noon for social work and will have to spend it with family or relatives, even if you dont want to. There will be peace in the family environment, and your family will be proud of your excellent work. Minor health-related problems will persist, yet the daily routine will remain organized.

Positive  Spend some time in the company of experienced and senior people. This will bring positive changes to your thinking. You will easily adapt to difficult times. Married people are likely to find a good relationship. Knowledge and wisdom will increase.

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Negative  A worrying situation may arise in the afternoon, which could lead to an argument with a close relative. It is best to remain calm during this time. Excitement can worsen the problem. Students preparing for competitions need to be more focused.

Business  You will receive support from some important people in improving your business activities. You will also receive important information through a phone call. Postpone marketing-related work during this time. Advice from an outsider may be detrimental. Your hard work will yield positive results.

Finance Today will prove to be better for you from a financial point of view. Your income is likely to increase, which will reduce mental stress. Today is a favorable day for investment, but use big capital wisely. You can plan to spend money on luxury items, and there will be no shortage of money. Expenses may increase suddenly, but there is no need to panic. Despite the increase in expenses, you will be able to make good savings. Today will be financially satisfying and will help you achieve your financial goals. If you are thinking of changing your job, then the time will be favorable for you.

Love  Married life will be harmonious. Phone conversations with dear friends will bring back old memories. The family atmosphere will be pleasant.

Health  Your organized routine will keep you healthy and energetic. Be sure to spend some time in nature. Maintain positivity.

Lucky Color Red

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Lucky Number 9

(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, ... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 06:55 IST

News astrology Capricorn Horoscope Today, November 15, 2025

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Troy Hotliss: Thank you, Russ. The third quarter represented continued progress with launching new products and accelerating sales bookings to our highest levels this year. While we did see some additional revenue migration dilution, as we near completion of our technology platform migration at this year's end, we still saw meaningfully improved sequential adjusted EBITDA, showing the magnitude of our operating leverage. Based on this overall progress, with accelerating sales bookings, which we anticipate can continue and compound, we believe we are gaining visibility on increased sustainable sales growth moving into 2026. We have a core focus on select very large vertical markets where the combination of our unique capabilities combined with first-party data create unique solutions for world-class market-leading companies.

We believe selling such bundled solutions across the entire customer value chain will accelerate our business, and make us much more valuable, sticky, and scalable. And with that, I'll hand the call to Troy to briefly discuss the third quarter.

One where we evolve beyond mainly providing strategic analytics to vertical market-leading companies to one where we accelerate delivering more comprehensive solutions that address higher value impact needs across the entire customer acquisition and optimization journey. At the end of the day, our customers fundamentally rely on our AI-driven strategic insights to more efficiently drive growth-oriented customer acquisition. We believe there's a significant opportunity for us to rapidly expand into highly measurable AI-powered bundled solutions which provide the strategic insights our customers need, the automated actions those insights inform, and the outcomes those actions achieve. We believe that there are significant untapped opportunities with our customers and solutions within each of our current verticals.

Russell C. Horowitz: Thanks, Frank. I'm gonna start with a few introductory remarks and then hand the call over to Troy, Brian, and then Frank. The main item I'd like to share is that we feel the company is at a very positive inflection point, both strategically and operationally. There's always more to accomplish, but we've come a long way with expanding our customer and opportunity footprint, evolving our product capabilities, and starting to create real sales momentum. With this progress and deeper strategic understanding, which is against the backdrop of the very real and very massive AI revolution, we've gained proprietary insight into what we believe may be a much bigger market opportunity.

Story Continues

To that end, we deliver industry-specific AI solutions for automotive, auto services, home services, healthcare, and advertising and media, as well as other industries and sub-verticals. Overall, our AI-driven products revolve around the mission of understanding and capitalizing on customer conversations and leveraging first-party data for our customer's strategic and financial benefit. Our AI-driven conversational intelligence platform integrates universal and industry AI models with extensive API integrations and industry-specific applications. The Engage platform is driven by AgenTek AI and enables any client to easily understand their insight to action path, allowing business leaders across multiple business functions to make complex decisions leveraging prescriptive analytics across the full customer journey.

Of the new products and features we have launched or anticipate launching in the course of 2025 are key components of our go-forward growth strategy. With that, I'll turn the call over to Brian to provide an overview of the third quarter financial results.

Brian Nagel: Thank you, Troy. Revenue for 2025 was $11.5 million, which is down from $11.7 million for 2025. We saw the favorable impact of new sales and existing customer upsells benefit the period. We also saw some offsets to that growth due to migration activities from our legacy platforms onto our new Marchex Engage platform. For operating expenditures, we saw efficiencies throughout the business as we had a full quarter of benefit from the realignment of the organization that took place in 2025 following the completion of certain technology platform initiatives.

We anticipate that our gross profit margins can continue to improve over time as we are carrying an overall lower cost structure going forward, which could enable meaningful future operating and financial leverage for the business as new products and features sell through. On the balance sheet, cash decreased to $10.3 million from $10.5 million at the end of 2025. The decrease in cash was primarily due to the timing of customer payments at the end of the quarter.

Moving to guidance, as previously communicated in the 2025 earnings announcement, based on typical seasonality, and the revenue migration dilution associated with migrating more than 1,000 customers onto the new technology platform, we currently anticipate that both revenue and adjusted EBITDA will be sequentially lower in 2025 as compared to 2025. That being said, as Troy previously noted, in 2025, we saw meaningful increases in sales bookings. With this and the ongoing launch of our various new products, we believe we can continue to see sales levels increase going forward, which will in turn drive increased revenue growth.

So with the sales expansion currently underway, and the primary platform migration completion by year's end, we currently believe that in the course of 2026, we can see revenue growth on a run rate basis in the 10% range from year-end levels. We also believe that in the course of 2026, the combination of increasing revenue growth combined with lower overall operating expenses can lead to adjusted EBITDA margins of 10% or more. With that, I will hand the call to Frank.

Frank Feeney: Thank you, Brian. I would like to take a moment to walk through today's announced agreement in principle to acquire Arcanium. The details regarding the potential transaction are included in today's earnings press release, as well as certain Arcane estimated financial metrics. At a high level, Marchex has entered into an agreement in principle to acquire Arcadia for consideration consisting of a $10 million convertible promissory note and an earn-out in the two years following closing of up to 4 million shares. The extent Arcane's revenue and adjusted EBITDA exceeds thresholds to be agreed to in the definitive agreement of the transaction.

A special committee of Marchex's board of directors consisting solely of independent directors has approved Marchex entering into the agreement in principle because certain of the sellers are related parties. Parties have agreed to promptly commence to negotiate a definitive purchase agreement relating to the transaction. Conditions entering into the definitive agreement, including receipt of audited financial statements of Arcane for such periods as required by SEC rules, and receipt of a customary fairness opinion by a financial adviser selected by this special committee.

Conditions to closing the transaction shall include approval of the transaction by a majority of Marchex's disinterested stockholders, and the closing date in the event the definitive agreement is entered into, the transaction is approved by disinterested stockholders, is anticipated to occur in 2026. For your reference, Arcane is a performance-based customer qualification and acquisition company, which transforms consumer intent into AI-verified outcome-based results. Leveraging advanced AI signals, natural language analytics, and automated decisioning, Arcane detects consumer intent, and advertiser value in real-time, optimizing customer acquisition campaigns dynamically across channels. With machine learning models that continuously refine qualification accuracy and ROI, Arcadia enables its customers to pay for verified AI-validated outcomes such as appointments, sales, and high-intent conversations.

We believe that Marchex's potential combination with Arcane, if successfully consummated, will create a vertically focused AI-driven customer acquisition and outcome optimization platform integrating deep insights, automated actions, and verifiable outcomes. Additionally, we believe that the expanded AI-driven product offerings across insights, actions, outcomes could create more ways to win new business, and the bundling of solutions could create greater customer value, stickiness, and risk mitigation. We believe that the potential combined company could have the potential to achieve greater revenue scale and growth, higher margins, expanded market reach, and enhanced strategic flexibility.

Which could include first, a potentially expanded addressable market with the opportunity to cross-sell and bundle, Marchex believes the combined ability to sell insights, actions, and outcomes would meaningfully expand our addressable market into new large vertical markets. Additionally, we believe we would have the ability to relatively quickly offer or bundle Arcadia's outcome-based solutions to many of Marchex's insights-based enterprise customers. Second, greater potential revenue scale and growth. Marchex believes that revenue run rates for the potential combined company are approximately $15 million quarterly, or approximately $60 million annualized, which could grow in the 15% to 20% range in the course of 2026. Third, we see the potential for adjusted EBITDA expansion.

Marchex believes that our adjusted EBITDA margins are anticipated to trend up to 10% or more in 2026, and that Arcadia could contribute additional positive adjusted EBITDA beyond these levels. And finally, rule of 30 to rule of 40 trajectory. For reference, the rule of 30 to 40 metric represents the combination of annual revenue growth rates plus adjusted EBITDA margins. If we are able to achieve the anticipated revenue run rate growth in the 15-20% range, and combine this with improving adjusted EBITDA margins in double digits, the combined company could be positioned to potentially achieve these Rule of 30 to 40 metrics over time. Which we believe helps highlight the unique opportunity of the combined company if consummated.

With that, I will hand the call back to Russ for closing remarks.

Russell C. Horowitz: Thank you, Frank. We've already covered a whole lot today, so I simply want to close out by thanking all of our investors, partners, and other stakeholders for all of your ongoing support. Additionally, I want to deeply thank our employees for their unique expertise, sense of urgency, and continued commitment while we execute on what we believe is an increasingly dynamic opportunity. And with that, I will hand the call back to the operator.

Operator: To ask a question, it is star followed by one on your telephone keypad. If for any reason you would like to remove that question, it is star followed by two. Again, to ask a question, it is star one. As a reminder, if you're using a speakerphone, please remember to pick up your handset before asking a question. I'll pause briefly here as questions are registered. Again, it is star one. Our first question comes from Ross Kohler with the company, Kohler Capital. Ross, your line is now open.

Ross Kohler: Awesome. Hey, guys. Congrats on the proposed acquisition.

Russell C. Horowitz: Thank you.

Ross Kohler: I have a couple of questions on what the go-forward business looks like. Well, first, can you discuss how you view the TAM for the combined solution?

Russell C. Horowitz: Good question. Yeah. We think the opportunity in the addressable market when you look at the combined company's ability to sell insights, actions, and outcomes, is multiples of our existing one. We're predominantly selling insights only. You know, our insights, we believe, are tied to meaningful, nine-figure customer acquisition budgets, and, you know, we get used strategically to inform those. And our ability to continue to deliver more capabilities across that insights, actions, outcomes, value chain translates to a significantly larger TAM, one we believe could be of what we're operating against today.

Ross Kohler: Great. Can you talk about how you're thinking about the trade-off between growth and profitability as you scale up the business?

Russell C. Horowitz: Definitely. It's obviously an internal focus. You know, when we think about arbitrating, you know, validating that the investments we've made are translating into growth. We're pleased that on the back end of the migration, we're at an inflection point on a stand-alone basis where we believe we're seeing that happen now. And we can build on that. But net-net, as we look at the acquisition and our ability to accelerate growth potentially to the extent it gets consummated, we're just focused on maximizing the revenue growth and maintaining some baseline positive adjusted EBITDA margins in that 10% or more range.

You know, we believe emphasizing customer penetration, really scaling up while prioritizing our growth rates is gonna be the best approach for us for now.

Ross Kohler: Perfect. And lastly, can you discuss how you view the growth breaking down between new versus existing customers? And also, how big a business can you build just inside your current installed base?

Russell C. Horowitz: Yeah. Look. I think the best way to frame it if you've heard us say historically, you know, that we believe we have a $100 million revenue opportunity over time. But on a combined basis, you know, this deal closes, we really believe that $100 million in revenue is way more tangible and way more achievable much sooner even just with the existing or installed base. You know, we look at the verticals we operate in, and we look at the market-leading companies that we work in those verticals.

And we look at the opportunities even within the sub-verticals and call it the virtuous cycle of the expertise that we're putting together combined with the unique first-party data we have that informs our expanding set of solutions. And we think there's other customers we don't have that look like them, and we're gonna be more relevant to. With more capabilities that are easier to say yes to. But on a kind of a stand-alone basis with the existing installed base, yeah, the combined company is well-positioned in a more tangible way to get to a $100 million rate much sooner.

Ross Kohler: Awesome. Thank you.

Russell C. Horowitz: Appreciate the questions. Thank you. And the support.

Operator: At this time, there are no more questions registered in the queue. I'd like to pass the conference back over to our hosting team for closing remarks.

Russell C. Horowitz: Look. I appreciate everybody's interest in Marchex. Obviously, we're excited about where we are. You know, and, you know, what our possible opportunity can look like as we move forward. We've got a lot of congruency and clarity around what that looks like. And, we just appreciate all your ongoing support. And, look forward to keeping you posted as we execute. And hope we make that happen. Thank you, everyone.

Operator: That will conclude today's conference call. Thanks for your participation, and enjoy the rest of your day.

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Marchex (MCHX) Q3 2025 Earnings Call Transcript was originally published by The Motley Fool
Tarot Card Reading Today November 15, 2025

Written By :

GaneshaGrace

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 07:15 IST

Todays Tarot Horoscope reveals fresh starts, resilience, and emotional growth. Many signs face key turning points in love, career, and self-discovery through courage and intuition

Tarot Card Predictions Today November 15 2025 Daily Tarot Card Reading for All Zodiac Signs. (AI generated image)

Tarot Card Reading Today, November 15 2025: This day brings new beginnings, inner strength, and a strong drive toward decisive action, although it also presents emotional and moral challenges. Aries, Taurus, and Pisces can expect positive changes, including new job offers, business growth, or family happiness and prosperity.

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Gemini, Leo, and Aquarius are driven by clarity, courage, and intuition qualities that help them navigate internal or external conflicts and emerge stronger. Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn should proceed with caution, as betrayal, distrust, or manipulation could hinder peace or professional progress.

Virgo and Scorpio are encouraged to rely on supportive relationships and partnerships to overcome past challenges. Meanwhile, Sagittarius will have to balance dreams and reality while handling significant life events like proposals or investments.

Overall, the main themes are renewal, resilience, and ethical action, with many zodiac signs entering turning points in relationships, careers, and personal development.

Aries Tarot Reading (The Fool)

Ganesha says its time to rise. Start something new and make some changes to your traditional ways of doing things. Try starting a new business. The arrival of some people could bring significant changes to your life; strengthen your relationships with them. Your unique perspective and behavior will attract others.

You may consider buying a new home after consulting with your family. You may receive news of a new job opportunity. A promotion or transfer in your current job may cause some anxiety. However, both the new job and the new location will bring significant changes to your life. Some moments may also be stressful.

Taurus Tarot Reading (Eight of Wands)

Ganesha says you may consider discussing a love marriage with your family. The upcoming circumstances appear favorable. Some good news may soon arrive, bringing joy and a sense of freshness to your life. You will have opportunities to showcase your skills and abilities and create a new identity for yourself.

You may get a new job, and if youve been expecting a promotion or a pay raise for some time, you may receive news of it. You can plan to start a new business, as all circumstances are likely to be in your favor. Be confident. Many opportunities may arise, which may confuse you.

Gemini Tarot Reading (The Magician)

Ganesha says the success of a new project has boosted your enthusiasm. Past mental turmoil and anxious thoughts are distracting you, making it difficult to concentrate on work. Try to complete tasks on time and move forward. Some secrets from the past may haunt you, and your mind will frequently wander to those memories.

Try to cultivate positive thoughts. Soon, you will find yourself moving toward a significant change that could significantly transform your life. You will experience renewed energy and enthusiasm. Completing tasks on time and handling difficult challenges with understanding and patience may earn you recognition and praise from your superiors.

Cancer Tarot Reading (Seven of Swords)

Ganesha says a valuable item of yours may have been attracting the attention of a friend for quite some time. If that item suddenly goes missing, you may become suspicious of that friend. Dishonesty may seem beneficial in life, but its benefits are often short-lived. Over-trusting someone at this time could lead to betrayal.

If you used dishonest or unethical methods to achieve success in a project, it could damage your reputation and dignity. If a legal matter has not yet been resolved, caution is advised, as opposing parties may try to seek a judgment against you. Financial matters may also be at risk.

Leo Tarot Reading (Strength)

Ganesha says all adverse circumstances will work in your favor. How you face challenges with patience and composure during difficult times will be a true test of your courage and perseverance. You can overcome difficulties, and this perseverance and determination will pave the way for future success. Excellent opportunities are coming your way in your professional life.

Choose the best one and move forward. Maintain distance from those who bring trouble or insult into your life. Bring positivity into your life and sweetness to your speech. Avoid using harsh words, as they can tarnish your reputation. Learn the art of silence; this is a difficult practice, but its results are extremely satisfying.

Virgo Tarot Reading (The Hanged Man)

Ganesha says you can enjoy the pleasant changes in your life and experience a shift in your mindset as a result of these changes. Workplace politics and competition were bothering you, but now you can distance yourself from these distractions and focus on completing your tasks more effectively. Due to your sensitive nature, its often difficult for you to quickly adapt to any task or situation.

Before forming any opinion about someone, try to understand them thoroughly to avoid misunderstandings. A friend has proposed a partnership to help you overcome challenges and financial losses in your business. By trusting this friend and accepting the offer, you can overcome your difficulties.

Libra Tarot Reading (Five of Cups)

Ganesha says a business partners betrayal, coupled with financial mismanagement, has deeply hurt you. You are making considerable efforts to recover from this shock. Consulting an experienced person may resolve this problem soon. Their guidance can help revive your business and stabilize your financial situation.

Your tendency to be suspicious of people can make you feel lonely, and your indifferent behavior towards colleagues at work creates distance. Changing your perspective and mindset can contribute to a better life. Financial worries will gradually begin to subside. A friends support can help you start a new business. Focusing on and appreciating what you already have can bring peace and comfort to your mind.

Scorpio Tarot Reading (The Lovers)

Ganesha says suddenly, your work has picked up pace. A friend has proposed a partnership in his business, and you are very excited by this offer. The support and cooperation of loved ones at the right time will prove very helpful in advancing your business. Discussions about buying or selling property are underway.

A celebration is likely to take place at your in-laws place, and a wedding may also take place in your family. A friends intervention may help resolve ongoing differences with your spouse, bringing normalcy back to your relationship. You may develop a good relationship with your superiors, which will help you obtain better opportunities.

Sagittarius Tarot Reading (Page of Pentacles)

Ganesha says a lack of seriousness in your work could lead to significant losses. However, thanks to the wisdom of an experienced person, a significant loss was mitigated. You may be preparing to buy or sell a property. A marriage proposal from an influential family has been accepted by all, and both parties are ready to move forward. Promising business opportunities could yield good profits.

Proceed with patience and caution, choosing the right opportunities. Some dreams may seem attractive, but achieving them in reality can be challenging. With confidence and courage, you have taken steps towards realizing those dreams, believing that things will turn out well.

Capricorn Tarot Reading (Five of Swords)

Ganesha says you may resort to unethical methods to resolve a family dispute. Although the problem is almost resolved, there is still a fear that your cunningness might be exposed in front of your relatives. Your desire to win is strong, and you do not like to give up. Unethical actions may bring success, but the fear of getting caught remains.

Try to complete tasks tactfully, taking care not to hurt anyones feelings or opinions. When discussing any serious issue, be careful not to offend others. Past experiences have been painful, and memories of them often stir up emotions. Try to let go of these memories and move on.

Aquarius Tarot Reading (The High Priestess)

Ganesha says your spiritual inclination may increase in life. You place great importance on your inner voice. You know that whatever you do will be successful. In the workplace, you make decisions only after carefully evaluating right and wrong.

Approaching tasks with complete positivity, enthusiasm, and energy can lead to great success. You never let difficulties overwhelm you. This attitude of yours attracts others to you. You have confidence in yourself, and your faith in your higher power gives you the strength to face all challenges. Stay away from selfish people.

Pisces Tarot Reading (The Sun)

Ganesha says after a long wait, you may receive the good news of a new guest arriving in the family. All family members are overjoyed with this news. You may make good profits in your business. You may achieve great success in a competitive exam. You have long dreamed of marrying your beloved, but both families were not agreeable to this marriage.

You hope that both families will soon give their approval. God will surely reward your faith and devotion. You feel that both families will soon accept this relationship. Your new business has suddenly gained momentum, filling you with enthusiasm and energy. Now you are working hard to expand your business.

(The author Chirag Daruwalla is the son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla).

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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, ... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 07:15 IST

News astrology Tarot Card Reading Today November 15, 2025

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Bank Holiday 2025: Are Banks Open Or Closed Today, Saturday, November 15?

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 07:45 IST

According to the Reserve Bank of India, all banks remain closed on Sundays and on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month

Bank Holiday Today: Are Banks Open Or Closed? Check State-Wise Status

Are Banks Open Today? If youre planning to visit the bank today, Saturday, November 15, heres what you should know  all banks will remain open. Today is the third Saturday of the month, and all banks stay open on third Saturdays. Since there is no festival or public holiday in any state on this date, bank branches across the country will operate as usual. So, if you have pending bank work, you can visit your branch without worry.

RBI Rules on Bank Holidays

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According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), all banks remain closed on Sundays and on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month. Since tomorrow is the third Saturday, it is not a bank holiday, and branches will function normally.

All November Festivals Ended in the First Week

This year, major festivals such as Diwali, Govardhan Puja, Bhai Dooj, and Chhath fell in late October. As a result, November has been relatively free of festivals. All significant celebrations wrapped up in the first week itself, and no state has a festival-related holiday this weekend. Banks are closed only on their scheduled weekly offs.

As per the RBI holiday calendar, there are no additional bank holidays for the rest of November, apart from the usual fourth Saturday and Sundays, when all banks remain closed.

What banking services can you use when branches are closed?

Even on bank holidays, customers can continue using a range of digital banking options:

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Net banking and mobile banking remain fully operational unless notified otherwise.

ATMs are open for cash withdrawals.

UPI payments, fund transfers, and app-based banking services continue as usual.

Customers can initiate requests through NEFT/RTGS, apply for demand drafts, or use chequebook request forms online.

Services like credit/debit card applications, account maintenance, standing instructions, and locker applications can also be accessed digitally.

The RBI declares the annual bank holiday list under the Negotiable Instruments Act, which governs the use of cheques, drafts, and promissory notes. Transactions involving these instruments are unavailable on designated holidays.

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, ... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 07:45 IST

News business banking-finance Bank Holiday 2025: Are Banks Open Or Closed Today, Saturday, November 15?

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ITAT Mumbai Verdict: Engineer Cleared In Rs 69 Lakh Unexplained Income Case

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 17:10 IST

The ITAT's ruling highlighted complications faced by taxpayers in high-value financial transactions after an engineer argued against an Assessing Officer.

The taxpayer reported investments worth Rs 69 lakh. (representative image)

The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) in Mumbai recently deleted a major addition made by the tax authorities against an Indian engineer. The bone of contention was the engineers alleged under-reporting of income while making substantial financial investments.

The verdict by the authorities underpinned the increasing tax complications faced in high-value financial transactions. With their order, ITAT Mumbai not only brought to an end the six-year-long stand-off and provided the taxpayer relief, but also shed light on the digital monitoring tools currently deployed by the Income Tax Department.

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Tax Advisory Platform Explains The Case

Tax Buddy, a tax advisory platform, provided a detailed insight into the case at hand via a social media post. The case concerned an engineer who reportedly declared only minimal income in his Income Tax Returns but was found to have purchased a residential flat worth Rs 39 lakh and made fixed deposits worth Rs 30 lakh. It took his total investments to Rs 69 lakh.

An Indian engineer showed minimal income in India but bought a 39L flat and made 30L FDs (69L total). Tax officer taxed it as unexplained income; 6 yrs later ITAT Mumbai deleted it Heres how the Tax Dept tracks 8 such transactions through the SFT system: In response, the Assessing Officer (AO) classified the sum as unexplained income as per Section 69 of the Income Tax Act. The Assessing Officer also raised a tax demand against the engineer. While the AO concluded that the declared income doesnt justify the scale of investments made, the taxpayer argued that their funds came from past savings, family support and verifiable banking channels. The argument unsurprisingly didnt satisfy the AO. The additions were upheld in earlier stages of appeal before the matter finally reached the ITAT Mumbai. How The Decision Went In The Taxpayers Favour Despite facing objections, the taxpayer ultimately won the dispute after the Tribunal felt that the AO had not adequately considered the explanations and supporting documents issued by the engineer. In their order, the ITAT mentioned that the source of the funds had been reasonably demonstrated and that the additions couldnt be sustained on mere assumptions under unexplained income provisions. The Tribunal also emphasised the importance of fair evaluation of cases in which investments stretch over several years and are made through non-taxable flows. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The case reinforced how financial compliance is increasingly data-driven. The Income Tax Departments surveillance capabilities have only grown rapidly in the last decade through the Statement of Financial Transactions (SFT) system. Integrated with PAN, AIS and several reporting entities, this mechanism allows the department to automatically identify unusual or disproportionate financial activities. The SFT system monitors transactions based on eight different categories, including cash deposits in savings accounts, cash in current accounts, credit card bills, property purchases or sales of Rs 30 Lakh or more, fixed Deposits of Rs 10 lakh or more and other investment transactions. But even as the system increases transparency, the engineers case reminds us why it is equally important for legitimate taxpayers to receive fair and balanced assessments by authorities.

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, w... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 16:59 IST

News business ITAT Mumbai Verdict: Engineer Cleared In Rs 69 Lakh Unexplained Income Case

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PM Kisan 21st Installment Date Announced: Over 9 Crore Farmers To Receive Rs 2,000 Next Week

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 08:40 IST

PM Kisan 21st Installment Date Announced: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release the 21st PM Kisan installment next week, benefiting over 9 crore farmers.

PM Kisan 21st Installment Date Announced

PM Kisan 21st Installment Date Announced: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release the 21st installment of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM Kisan) scheme on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 2:00 PM, as informed by Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Over 9 crore PM-Kisan beneficiaries will be benefited by this transfer.

To offer support to farmers of Jammu and Kashmir following the devastating floods, the Centre has already disbursed the 21st installment of PM Kisan. According to the official notification, a total of Rs 170 crore was transferred to 8.5 lakh farmers of Jammu and Kashmir on October 07, 2025.

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Under the PM Kisan scheme, eligible farmers get Rs 2,000 every four months, which is Rs 6,000 annually. The money is provided each year in three instalments  April-July, August-November and December-March. The fund is directly transferred to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.

The scheme was announced in the Interim Budget 2019 by then finance minister Piyush Goyal and was later launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It has now become the worlds biggest Direct Benefit Transfer scheme.

-  21    -19  2025          https://t.co/FZC9A899rxPM-Kisans 21st installment will be released on 19th November 2025. Please click the link and register now. https://t.co/FZC9A899rx #AgriGoI pic.twitter.com/DdHR2sJopu  PM Kisan Samman Nidhi (@pmkisanofficial) November 14, 2025

Farmers, however, need to register and update their e-KYC to be eligible for the next tranche in the scheme.

PM Kisan Scheme e-KYC

To receive the installments, the farmers need to complete their e-KYC. According to the schemes official website, eKYC is MANDATORY for PMKISAN Registered Farmers. OTP-based eKYC is available on the PMKISAN Portal, or the nearest CSC centres may be contacted for Biometric-based eKYC".

PM Kisan Scheme: How To Check Status If You Are A Registered Farmer?

Farmers who have registered themselves through the CSC centres or online can check their approval status by following these steps:

1. Visit PM Kisans official portal  pmkisan.gov.in

2. Click Status of Self Registered Farmer/CSC Farmers in the FARMERS CORNER section on the homepage.

3. Enter your Aadhaar number and filling in the captcha to verify your status.

Who Is Eligible for PM Kisan?

To qualify for the PM Kisans 21th installment, one must:

Be a citizen of India

Own cultivable land

Be a small or marginal farmer

Not be a pensioner receiving Rs 10,000 or more per month

Not have filed income tax

Not be an institutional landholder.

PM Kisan: How To Apply? A Step-By-Step Guide

New registrations can be done online via the official portal or offline through Common Service Centres (CSCs). Heres a step-by-step guide for online registration:

1. Visit the portal at pmkisan.gov.in

2. Click on New Farmer Registration on the homepage. Youll be redirected to a form asking for Aadhaar Number, State, and Captcha Code.

3. Proceed to verify your Aadhaar using OTP.

4. Fill in the Application. Enter full name (as per Aadhaar), bank account number & IFSC code, mobile number, Land ownership details (Khasra/Khatauni, etc.).

You may also be asked to upload land documents depending on your state.

5. Submit and Await Verification

After submission, the application goes to the State Nodal Officer (SNO) for verification. Once approved, your name is added to the beneficiary list.

How To Check If Your Name Is On the Beneficiary List:

1. Visit the official PM Kisan portal: https://pmkisan.gov.in

2. On the homepage, under the FARMERS CORNER, click on Beneficiary List.

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3. Enter your state, district, sub-district, block, and village.

4. Click Get Report to view the list of beneficiaries in your village.

About the Author Varun Yadav Varun Yadav is a Sub Editor at News18 Business Digital. He writes articles on markets, personal finance, technology, and more. He completed his post-graduation diploma in English Journalism from the I... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 08:37 IST

News business PM Kisan 21st Installment Date Announced: Over 9 Crore Farmers To Receive Rs 2,000 Next Week

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Direct Vs Regular Mutual Funds: Key Differences And How To Pick The Right Option

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News18.com

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 10:42 IST

Both options invest in the same mutual fund schemethe only difference lies in the route of investment

Mutual Funds

Many first-time investors experiment with different investment avenuessome choose stocks, while others gravitate toward mutual funds. For beginners, its important to understand that mutual funds come in two broad categories based on how you invest: regular mutual funds and direct mutual funds.

Regular mutual funds are purchased through a distributor or advisor, while direct mutual funds can be bought directly from the fund house or through digital platforms such as Groww or Zerodha (Coin).

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Direct vs Regular Mutual Funds: Whats the Difference?

Both options invest in the same mutual fund schemethe only difference lies in the route of investment.

Direct mutual funds have a lower expense ratio because no distributor is involved. There is no commission payout, allowing investors to retain a higher portion of returns.

Regular mutual funds carry a higher expense ratio because distributors earn a commission for recommending and managing investments, which slightly reduces the investors overall returns.

If youre new to investing and need guidance, regular funds may be more suitable. If youre confident about researching and selecting schemes on your own, direct funds can be more cost-efficient.

Who Should Choose Regular Mutual Funds?

Beginners with little to no knowledge of mutual funds or investing. Investors with diversified portfolios who lack the time to research schemes independently. Those who prefer professional advice and ongoing support from a financial intermediary.

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Who Should Choose Direct Mutual Funds?

Investors who want to avoid distributor commissions and maximise returns.

Those who understand at least the basic principles of investing and mutual funds.

Investors already using digital platforms like Groww or Zerodha, who prefer the convenience of buying direct funds without visiting multiple AMC websites.

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, ... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 10:42 IST

News business savings-and-investments Direct Vs Regular Mutual Funds: Key Differences And How To Pick The Right Option

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Is Your Nandini Ghee Packet Real Or Fake? Crime Branch Busts Tamil Nadu-Bengaluru Racket

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 15:22 IST

Bengaluru Central Crime Branch has seized 8,136 litres of adulterated ghee worth Rs 1,26,95,200, four vehicles, machinery and large quantities of coconut and palm oil

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The Bengaluru Central Crime Branch has busted this major racket after days of conducting a covert operation and weeks of surveillance.

Next time you pick up a packet of Nandini ghee, Karnatakas milk cooperative, check if it is a fake one or a real one, as a massive Tamil Nadu-Bengaluru ghee racket passing off adulterated coconut-and-palm-oil mix as Nandini ghee has been blown open by the Central Crime Branch (CCB).

The police have exposed how a group, seeing the major spike in demand for ghee in Karnataka, began bottling thousands of litres of counterfeit Nandini-branded packets and introducing them in shops in Bengaluru.

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The Bengaluru Central Crime Branch has busted this major racket after days of conducting a covert operation and weeks of surveillance, leading to the seizure of 8,136 litres of adulterated ghee worth Rs 1,26,95,200, four vehicles used for supply, the machinery used to prepare the counterfeit product, and large quantities of coconut and palm oil.

Police said the network was operating from Tamil Nadu, where the accused were preparing the adulterated ghee and filling it into counterfeit Nandini sachets and plastic bottles. The consignment was then transported to Bengaluru and handed over to city-based accused who held official KMF licences. These licence-holders were allegedly distributing the adulterated product to wholesale and retail shops and even Nandini parlours, selling it at the original market price.

There has been a spike in demand for ghee in Karnataka, and the accused were exploiting this by passing off adulterated ghee as original Nandini," a senior CCB officer said.

The racket was tracked after intelligence inputs were gathered by the CCB Special Investigation Squad and the KMF Vigilance Wing. Acting on the information, a joint team raided godowns, shops and goods vehicles linked to Krishna Enterprises in Nanjamba Agrahara, Chamarajpet, Bengaluru, which is owned by the main accused and their family members, on November 14.

During the raids, officers intercepted a vehicle transporting adulterated ghee from Tamil Nadu. The counterfeit Nandini sachets and plastic bottles inside were being supplied to shops in Bengaluru. The driver was detained, and the stock was seized on the spot.

From the accused, police confiscated five mobile phones used in the operation, four Bolero goods vehicles worth Rs 60 lakh, Rs 1,19,640 in cash earned from the illegal activity, fake Nandini sachets and bottles filled with the 8,136 litres of adulterated ghee, and cans of coconut and palm oil used for mixing.

In total, four accused have been arrested. Police have seized adulterated ghee, coconut and palm oil, Rs 1,19,640 in cash, four Bolero vehicles used for transportation, machinery used for manufacturing the fake ghee and other materials, together valued at Rs 1,26,95,200.

A case has been registered at the CCB Special Investigation Division, and further investigation is under way to identify the rest of the network.

The arrests

Among those arrested are Mahendra, a KMF distributor; his son Deepak; and Muniraju, who supplied the adulterated ghee from Tamil Nadu. Another accused, Abhi Arasu, is said to have transported the product from Tamil Nadu to Bengaluru.

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City Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh, in a statement, said, We had received specific information from the KMF vigilance team. Based on that, we jointly detected this entire racket. We have arrested three people and questioned one more. It has now been confirmed that they were manufacturing fake Nandini ghee and other milk products. The machine unit was located in Tiruppur district of Tamil Nadu. Raids were conducted there as well as in Bengaluru. Goods worth over Rs 1 crore have been seized. We are still gathering information about the main accused. Preliminary investigation has revealed that they were involved in similar activities even in 2018. They used to buy original ghee from here, adulterate it there, and then send it back. It has come to light that they were carrying out this activity for the last two years. The adulterated ghee was prepared in Tamil Nadu and sold in Bengaluru."

KMF Managing Director Shivaswamy, in a statement, said, In the preliminary inquiry, it has been found that he was a KMF dealer. The ghee that was officially supplied was being taken to Tamil Nadu. This was a joint operation by the CCB and KMF. The authorised distributor was taking the ghee there and mixing it. They were mixing palm oil and coconut oil. We will investigate whether this adulterated ghee was sold through authorised outlets."

About the Author Rohini Swamy Rohini Swamy, Associate Editor at News18, has been a journalist for nearly two decades in the television and digital space. She covers south India for News18s digital platform. She has previously wor... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 15:22 IST

News bengaluru-news Is Your Nandini Ghee Packet Real Or Fake? Crime Branch Busts Tamil Nadu-Bengaluru Racket

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Kidnapped From CSMT, Found In Varanasi, Mumbai Police Rescue 4-Year-Old After Massive Hunt

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 10:19 IST

A 4-year-old girl missing from CSMTs-Fort, Mumbai, was found in a Varanasi orphanage after a months-long Mumbai Police search and reunited with her parents.

A file photo of the Mumbai Police (PTI)

A 4-year-old girl who went missing from the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus-Fort area in Mumbai nearly six months ago has been found in Varanasi and safely reunited with her parents.

The child had travelled with her family from Solapur to Mumbai for her fathers medical treatment at St. George Hospital. She disappeared on May 20 while playing near the station. Her parents immediately alerted the police.

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Mumbai Police mounted a large-scale investigation, forming ten specialised teams and reviewing hundreds of hours of CCTV from the Fort area, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, and Bhusawal. Investigators traced the young girls movement onto a train bound for Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh.

In September, Mumbai Police launched Operation Shodh" in Varanasi in collaboration with the local police and railway personnel. They displayed posters, banners, and took out newspaper ads in a bid to locate the child. The breakthrough came when a local journalist alerted the Mumbai team that a Marathi-speaking girl matched the description of the missing child at an orphanage in Varanasi.

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The child had been left near Varanasi station by the kidnapper, who remains unidentified, and was placed in the care of the orphanage before the Mumbai Police confirmed her identity and reunited her with her family.

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, ... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 10:19 IST

News cities Kidnapped From CSMT, Found In Varanasi, Mumbai Police Rescue 4-Year-Old After Massive Hunt

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Navi Mumbai Airports 1st Flight On December 25: Which Cities Can You Fly To? How To Reach NMIA?

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Last Updated: November 16, 2025, 17:41 IST

Navi Mumbai International Airport ops from December 25: Two airlines have announced flights to various cities, opening ticket bookings. Here's how you can reach NMIA

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Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) in Ulwe is around 37 km from South Mumbai.

After its inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 8, the Navi Mumbai International airport (NMIA) is set to begin flight operations from December 25.

While the NMIA is yet to officially make the announcement, two airlines have opened bookings. Flights to only four cities are being offered in the beginning.

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The Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA)

The airport has been developed over 1,160 hectares with a special purpose vehicle, Navi Mumbai International Airport Limited (NMIAL). Once the airport is ready with two runways, it will have the capacity to handle nine crore passengers (annually). Once fully operational, NMIA and CSMIA together will allow Mumbai to handle approximately 145150 million passengers annually.

Thrilled to announce the launch of our operations from the all-new @navimumairport (NMIA)! Our maiden flight from Delhi to Navi Mumbai will land at NMI on 25th December 2025, marking a historic milestone. With this, Akasa Air becomes one of the first airlines to commence pic.twitter.com/8tZVLXBPve  Akasa Air (@AkasaAir) November 15, 2025

The first flight

Akasa Air has opened ticket bookings. It has planned a special flight for only December 25  QP 1831  which will depart Delhi at 5.25 am and land at Navi Mumbai at 8.10 am. The return flight, planned for the same day, will fly as QP 132, departing at 8.50 am from Navi Mumbai.

On Friday, the one-way fare for Navi Mumbai-Delhi flight was priced around Rs 6,000.

The new airport will begin with only 12-hour operations, beginning at 8am, said a Times Of India (TOI) report.

Akasa Air makes 1st announcement, announces flights to four cities from NMIA

Akasa Airs official website announced passenger flights from Navi Mumbai International Airport from December 25, 2025, becoming the first airline to do so.

Akasa Air will offer direct flights from Navi Mumbai to Delhi, Goa, Kochi, and Ahmedabad.

The post on X read: Thrilled to announce the launch of our operations from the all-new @navimumairport (NMIA)!  Our maiden flight from Delhi to Navi Mumbai will land at NMI on 25th December 2025, marking a historic milestone. With this, Akasa Air becomes one of the first airlines to commence operations from NMIA. Get ready to enjoy the Akasa experience from Navi Mumbai to Ahmedabad, Delhi, Goa and Kochi."

IndiGo too joins in: Announces flights to 10 cities from NMIA

IndiGo on Saturday announced that it will start flight operations from the newly-constructed Navi Mumbai International Airport from December 25 with domestic air services to 10 cities.

IndiGo said it will connect the future-ready airport to ten cities across India including Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, North Goa (Mopa), Jaipur, Nagpur, Cochin, and Mangalore, starting December 25, according to PTI.

What will be the flight timings?

Some flights will run daily, while others will operate only on specific days. Flights to Delhi, Goa, and Kochi will be available at various times from morning to night, so passengers can choose flights as per their convenience. Some flights to Goa and Kochi will run only on certain days, while services to Delhi and Ahmedabad will be more regular.

Special service to Ahmedabad will start from December 31, according to News18 Lokmat.

Except December 25, Akasa Airs daily Delhi-Navi Mumbai flight has a scheduled arrival time of 8.50am, while the Navi Mumbai-Delhi flight will depart at 10.55am. The airline also has planned a daily flight from Navi Mumbai to Goa; it will fly to Kochi five times a week and to Ahmedabad only on Wednesdays, according to TOI.

For more information about the flights, tickets, and booking, passengers can contact Akasa Airs official website, mobile app, or their travel agent.

Where exactly is the NMIA?

The airport is in Ulwe, which is a node of Navi Mumbai, in the Panvel taluka of Raigad district, Maharashtra, near NH 4B and Aamra Marg roads. Its exact address would be  Ulwe, Targhar Dapoli Road, Panvel Taluka, Raigad.

How to reach NMIA?

Residents of Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Mumbai and suburbs can reach NMIA taking the Eastern Expressway via Mulund, Airoli or via the Thane-Kalwa-Vitawa-Digha-Nerul-Belapur-Ulwe road. The distance is approximately 35-40 km. The Western Expressway can be reached via JVLR, Eastern Expressway, Vashi Creek Bridge, the distance is approximately 40-45 km. From Worli, you can reach NMIA via Atal Setu and Ulwe-Belapur.

Sion-Panvel Highway via Chembur, Vashi, Nerul, Belapur, Panvel or existing highways: Take NH4B and Aamra Marg. The Eastern Freeway can also bring motorists from South Mumbai to Chembur, who can then travel onwards using the Sion-Panvel highway.

Travel time: Depending on traffic, likely 1-1.5 hours from many parts of Mumbai. It will take slightly less time from the eastern suburbs.

Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) or Atal Setu: Once you cross Sewri (South Mumbai) on MTHL into Nhava Sheva, you will be closer to Ulwe terminal. The Ulwe Coastal Road, which will connect with MTHL, is being built to improve connectivity. From South Mumbai, especially near Sewri, it will cut the travel time by 20 minutes.

Travel time: Once you cross the MTHL, it will take around 20 25 minutes, depending on traffic.

ALSO READ | Navi Mumbai Airports Lotus Vs Beijings Star Fish: Whats Common Between These 2 Designs

Buses: You can take state transport, CIDCO or private airport express buses being planned from hubs like Dadar, Thane, Vashi, Panvel, etc.

Travel time: It depends on your starting point, but keep an eye on the stops on the way.

Railway: You can travel to Panvel railway station on the Central Railways harbour line, which starts at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT)  CSMT-Wadala Road-Mankhurd-Vashi-Nerul-Belapur-Panvel. There are no fast trains. Navi Mumbai and Thane passengers can opt for the trans-harbour line. The frequency is limited. From there you can take the local transport. Navi Mumbai Metro line 1 from Belapur to Pendhar Metro Line has been completed and is operational.

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Travel time: CSMT to Panvel takes 1.5 hours. Thane-Panvel takes 45-50 minutes.

With PTI, Agencies Inputs

About the Author Manjiri Joshi At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing speci... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 12:11 IST

News mumbai-news Navi Mumbai Airports 1st Flight On December 25: Which Cities Can You Fly To? How To Reach NMIA?

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NCB Mumbai Destroys 1,835 kg Of Seized Mephedrone, Busts International Drug Network

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 12:35 IST

NCB Mumbai destroyed 1835 kg mephedrone and 341 kg chemicals seized from Maharashtra and Delhi, arrested 16 including foreign nationals, aiming for Nasha Mukt Bharat by 2047.

NCB Mumbai destroyed 1835 kg mephedrone and 341 kg chemicals. 2047. (AI Image)

The Narcotics Control Bureaus (NCB) Mumbai Zonal Unit has destroyed 1,835 kg of mephedrone and 341 kg of other chemical substances seized during a major multi-state crackdown, terming it one of the largest drug disposals carried out ahead of trial.

According to a press release issued on November 15, the seizures were made from multiple locations across Maharashtra and Delhi, leading to the arrest of 16 people, including foreign nationals. Investigators said the operation helped dismantle a tightly knit drug syndicate with international links, uncovering networks involved in the large-scale production, distribution, and financing of narcotics.

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To oversee the disposal, a High-Level Drug Disposal Committee (HLDDC) was constituted in line with Supreme Court guidelines. The committee included the Deputy Director General (South-West Region) of the NCB, the Additional Director of the Mumbai Zonal Unit, and the Additional Commissioner of Pune Police.

After completing all legal procedures, the seized mephedrone and other substances were incinerated on November 14, 2025, at MEPL in Ranjangaon, Pune, in the presence of the committee members.

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The NCB said the massive disposal highlights its ongoing commitment to dismantling organised drug syndicates" and combating traffickers who fuel the narcotics ecosystem." The agency reaffirmed its goal of contributing to a Nasha Mukt Bharat by 2047."

The bureau added that it continues to intensify operations against interstate and international drug networks, targeting both trafficking routes and financial linkages to create a drug-free society.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 12:35 IST

News cities NCB Mumbai Destroys 1,835 kg Of Seized Mephedrone, Busts International Drug Network

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Upset Over Power Cut Due To Unpaid Bills, Kerala Man Removes Transformers' Fuses

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 12:41 IST

A man upset over power cut in Kasaragod removed fuses from seven transformers, causing a blackout. KSEB restored supply in an hour. Police detained the man.

The outage lasted over an hour. (Representative image)

A man, who was allegedly upset over the disruption in power supply to his house due to non-payment of bills, removed the fuses of seven transformers, triggering a blackout in parts of Kasaragod town on Friday evening. The outage began around 6.45 pm on Friday, affecting the town and nearby areas.

Within minutes, we received numerous calls reporting the outage. But when we checked the lines, there were no issues," a KSEB official told PTI. During inspections, staff discovered that the fuses had been removed, and later found them abandoned near the transformers.

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Some were damaged, so we had to use spare fuses to restore the electricity by 8 pm," the official added.

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Residents informed KSEB personnel that they had seen a man removing the fuses. According to officials, the suspect is a resident under the Nellikuzi section and had earlier created a scene" at the section office after his electricity connection was cut for unpaid bills.

Police took the man into custody for questioning, with officials saying he claimed to have mental health issues and was living with his elderly father. Police will decide whether to register a case once KSEB submits an official complaint. KSEB said the complaint would be filed on Saturday, noting that several fuses were damaged and the incident caused an outage lasting over an hour.

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, ... Read More

Location : Kochi [Cochin], India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 12:41 IST

News cities Upset Over Power Cut Due To Unpaid Bills, Kerala Man Removes Transformers' Fuses

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Key Points

Many technology stocks have soared in recent years to market values beyond $1 trillion.

This particular company, which recently approached $1 trillion before retreating, has what it takes to get there within a few years.

10 stocks we like better than Oracle 

In recent years, several technology companies have pushed the general market higher, in part as investors rushed to get in on potential artificial intelligence (AI) winners. Companies from Nvidia to Taiwan Semiconductor play key roles in this high-growth market, and they've seen both revenue and their market value take off.

Why are investors so enthusiastic about AI? Because the technology promises to streamline many tasks, resulting in efficiency, and even lead to game-changing innovation. All this is favorable for corporate earnings, and, therefore, for stock performance. This movement is far from over, with analysts forecasting a trillion-dollar AI market by the start of the next decade.

That means that Apple, Nvidia, Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, Meta Platforms, and Taiwan Semiconductor may welcome a new member to the $1 trillion club. Let's meet the unstoppable player that could join them by 2030.

Image source: Getty Images.

The $1 trillion club

First, a quick note about the "$1 trillion club" -- it isn't an actual club that exists. Instead, it's a way to refer to the companies that have seen their market values soar into trillion-dollar territory. They are all well-established players with track records of earnings growth, and considering current demand for AI and the market forecast I mentioned above, these companies may be heading for more growth as this AI story unfolds.

That means I probably won't surprise you when I say that the stock likely to join this club is yet another company building out a big presence in the AI world. This company is Oracle (NYSE: ORCL). Once known primarily for its database management system, in recent years Oracle has put the focus on building out cloud infrastructure -- and this has been a wise move.

Thanks to this emphasis on cloud, Oracle has seen demand for capacity from AI customers take off, and the company's revenue has followed. The most recent quarter offers us a good example: Cloud infrastructure revenue jumped 55% to more than $3 billion. The company offers strong visibility, predicting that this revenue will reach $18 billion this fiscal year and then progressively climb to $144 billion over the coming four years.

Evidence of explosive growth

The company also reported an explosive increase in remaining performance obligations -- or the value of contracted services that haven't yet been delivered -- with a gain of more than 300% to $455 billion. Following all this news, Oracle shares surged 35% in one trading session, bringing the market value of the company to $933 billion.
Intelligence Bureau Vacancy: No Written Exam | Check Salary

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 18:32 IST

Intelligence Bureau opens 258 ACIO Grade II Technical posts for engineering graduates, selection via GATE scores, skill test in Delhi, and interview

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IB has announced 258 vacancies for ACIO Grade II/Technical posts.

The Intelligence Bureau has announced a fresh round of recruitment for Assistant Central Intelligence Officer (ACIO) Grade II/Technical posts, offering engineering graduates a chance to join the countrys premier internal intelligence agency without a written examination. Applications for the 2025 cycle will close on November 16, 2025.

The notification details 258 vacancies across specialised technical streams. Of these, 90 posts are reserved for B.Tech graduates in Computer Science or Information Technology, while 168 posts have been allocated for those with degrees in Electronics and Communication. The position carries a Level-7 pay scale, amounting to Rs 44,900-Rs 1,42,400 per month.

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Eligibility hinges on candidates having secured at least the minimum qualifying score in the GATE examinations of 2023, 2024 or 2025, in addition to possessing a degree in one of the prescribed engineering disciplines. The age limit has been fixed at 18 to 27 years as on November 16, 2025, with the usual relaxations for reserved categories.

Selection Process

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Shortlisting based entirely on GATE scores from 2023, 2024 or 2025. Candidates shortlisted at a ratio of 10 times the number of vacancies. Skill test to be conducted in Delhi. Interview round for those clearing the skill test. Preparation of the final merit list based on GATE scores, skill test and interview performance. Background and character verification after provisional selection. Medical examination prior to final appointment.

Officials said the recruitment drive reflects the IBs continued effort to strengthen its technological backbone as cyber threats rise in scale and complexity.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 18:32 IST

News education-career Intelligence Bureau Vacancy: No Written Exam | Check Salary

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Why Learners Must Learn To Work With AI, Not Against It

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Last Updated: November 17, 2025, 13:21 IST

Artificial intelligence is reshaping how students learn and work. India must move from basic AI awareness to real AI capability to help learners think, create and grow responsibly.

Students using AI tools to enhance learning and problem-solving in modern classrooms.

By Anshumaan Prasad

Artificial intelligence is one of the most remarkable inventions of our time. It is changing the way learners absorb information, work, and interact with the world. There is a great deal of excitement and discussion about AIs new abilities. However, history reminds us to remain cautious. Every major invention, from farming to the steam engine to the microchip, transformed the world in significant ways, only to be replaced later by something more advanced.

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Today, learners are at a similar turning point as they use AI tools in classrooms and in their daily lives. The important question is not whether learners should use AI, but whether they know how to use it in thoughtful, creative, and intelligent ways that support their growth rather than encourage shortcuts.

According to the India Skills Report 2025 by Wheebox, India has the worlds largest young talent pool, with more than 600 million people under the age of 25. If we equip these learners with AI skills, we will not simply adapt to the future, we will shape it.

Technology that once appeared to threaten jobs has become the foundation of modern learning and work. Artificial intelligence is the next and far more powerful wave. It is already embedded in classrooms, research tools, and workplace systems. The question is not if learners should use AI, but how they can use it wisely as a thinking partner rather than a shortcut.

AI As An Amplifier Of Thinking, Not A Replacement

A common fear is that AI reduces curiosity, that students will ask a chatbot and stop thinking. This risk is real. However, when used well, AI can do the opposite. It can make abstract ideas visible, create simulations, and offer multiple ways to solve problems that inspire deeper exploration. For example, AI-powered tools can turn a physics concept into an interactive model or present a mathematical problem in various forms, helping students compare methods.

One of our students at NIIT recently used an agent-based AI system to prototype an app in a single week, work that would usually require a month. This is what AI as a learning accelerator looks like.

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 correctly identifies technology as a key enabler of personalised learning. It encourages digital tools that support creativity, problem solving, and conceptual understanding rather than rote memorisation.

The Danger Of Using AI For Answers Instead Of learning

Many learners today use GenAI tools to find quick answers. When these answers are accepted without verification or reflection, real learning can be affected. Experts warn that over-reliance on AI can weaken natural curiosity. Using AI to review and improve your own work can be extremely beneficial, but depending on it to complete assignments does not help a learner grow.

I recently spoke with a professor at my alma mater who shared an insightful observation. AI has improved the overall quality of assignments and case studies, but it has also reduced the number of standout submissions where students present fresh, original ideas. This shows us that while AI is a valuable tool, it must be used to support curiosity, not replace it.

From Literacy To Capability

Concrete pathways already exist to turn this vision into reality. New programmes in agentic AI teach learners how to work with AI systems that can think, plan, and act autonomously. These systems help learners combine language models, data, and automation tools to build practical and safe applications at scale.

Students can learn to build retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) systems that ground AI responses in data or design multi-agent workflows that plan, act, and self-check. These examples show how education can move from basic AI literacy to true AI capability.

If AI is to be a co-learner, teachers must model responsible use by demonstrating when to rely on AI and when to question it.

Classroom Practices That Work

Assignments can be redesigned with a simple structure. Learners first solve a problem independently. They then use AI to compare their solution, explore alternative approaches, and evaluate the results. Reflection tasks, ethical discussions, and assessment rubrics that reward reasoning and verification rather than only correct answers help students understand when AI is helpful and when human judgement is essential. This shifts AI from being a shortcut to becoming a mirror that reveals both strengths and areas for improvement.

ALSO READ: AIBE 20 Admit Card 2025: BCI To Release Hall Tickets Today At allindiabarexamination.com

Real-World Readiness

The job market of the future will reward those who can think with AI, define problems, test outputs, and build effective humanAI workflows. The ability to manage bias, privacy, and transparency will differentiate successful professionals. Agentic AI, which combines reasoning and collaboration, is already reshaping industries such as healthcare and finance.

Preparing learners for this future means teaching them to question AI, verify its outputs, and record when they used AI or relied on their own judgement. By doing this, they understand that AI is not a competitor to human intelligence but an extension of it.

It is true that AI will not replace humans, but humans who use AI effectively will replace those who do not. Indias next educational leap must focus on progressing from AI literacy to AI capability, enabling learners to verify, design, and reflect.

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Learners who master the skill of collaborating with AI will not only be employable, they will be unstoppable.

(The author is Business Head, NIIT Digital and Head of Marketing, NIIT Limited. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the writer. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.)

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, ... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 14:19 IST

News education-career Why Learners Must Learn To Work With AI, Not Against It

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20% More Voted In Bihar This Time, NDA Allies Showed Good Vote Transfer: News18 Data Dive

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 16:09 IST

Bihar poll results: As per official data, while 4.21 crore voters had cast their votes in 2020, slightly over 5 crore voters cast their vote this time

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All five NDA parties have a high strike rate. (PTI File)

While some have started misreading election data to claim vote chori after the phenomenal win of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the Bihar elections, CNN-NEWS18 did a reality check of the data to get the true poll picture.

First and foremost, the Congress claims Vote Chori and says lakhs of people were wrongly removed from the electoral rolls through the Election Commissions Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. But the fact is that more people cast their votes in Bihar this time than the last elections.

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As per official data, while 4.21 crore voters had cast their votes in 2020, slightly over 5 crore voters cast their vote this time. The exact numbers are 4,21,42,828 votes cast in 2020, compared to 5,00,29,879 votes cast this time. That means nearly 20% more voters turning up in 2025.

NDA PARTIES SEATS WON SEATS CONTESTED STRIKE RATE BJP 89 101 88% NITISH KUMAR 85 101 84% CHIRAG PASWAN 19 29 65% JITIN MANJHI 5 6 83% UPENDRA KHUSHWAHA 4 6 67% TOTAL 202 243 83%

The second claim of some is questioning how the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Janata Dal United (JDU) could increase their seats from 74 and 43, respectively, in 2020, to 89 and 85 now. The answer again lies in the higher votes polled by both parties and vote-transfer being ensured in seats an ally was contesting. Sample this: the BJP polled around 82 lakh votes in 2020, getting 74 seats. This time the BJP contested on nine seats less (101) but got more votes  about one crore to be precise. This has boosted the BJP tally from 74 seats to 89 this time.

The biggest jump was in the votes of the JDU. Nitish Kumars party had got 64.85 lakh votes in the last elections, finishing with 43 seats. But the JDU this time fought on 14 seats less (101) than the last time but got 96.67 lakh votes. This shows people reposed their faith in Nitish. This has significantly boosted the JDU tally from 43 seats to 85 seats now. The BJP and JDU tally also reflects in the fact that effective vote-transfer happened between the allies.

MAHAGATHBANDAN SEATS WON SEATS CONTESTED STRIKE RATE RJD 25 143 17% CONGRESS 6 61 10% LEFT 3 29 10% TOTAL 34 233 15%

The third claim by some is that RJD is the single-largest party by votes but has ended up with just 25 seats. The fact remains that the RJD has polled the maximum number of votes  1.15 crore  but that is also because it contested far more seats (143) than any other party. While the RJD got 97.38 lakh votes the last time, and hence too has boosted its vote tally, the vote transfer did not happen as well from its allies. That explains why the Congress party and other allies like Left and the VIP have fared badly.

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The chemistry in the Mahagathbandan when it came to vote transfer was sorely lacking while it was a big hit in the NDA. As a result, all five NDA parties have a high strike rate, the opposition parties all have a poor strike rate in terms of seats.

The Indian National Congress, through its Facebook post, has questioned why Chief Election Commissioner Shri Gyanesh Kumar mentioned the total number of electors in Bihar as 7.42 crore in his press note on October 6, while the Election Commission of Indias press release issued after polling shows the figure as 7.45 crore. But ECI has now clarified how an additional 3 lakh electors were added.

About the Author Aman Sharma Aman Sharma, News Director For CNN News18 and News18 English, has over two decades of experience in covering the wide spectrum of politics and the Prime Ministers Office. He has written widely on pol... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 16:05 IST

News elections 20% More Voted In Bihar This Time, NDA Allies Showed Good Vote Transfer: News18 Data Dive

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A 30-Vote Thriller In Ramgarh: How Mayawati's BSP Pulled Off Its Only Win In Bihar

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 11:25 IST

The Ramgarh win opened the BSPs account in Bihar this election and ended its five-year struggle to regain relevance after repeated defeats and a steady decline in influence

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The Ramgarh assembly seat in Kaimur district went in favour of BSP's candidate, Satish Kumar. (News18 Hindi)

In a stunning verdict, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has stormed back to power in Bihar, clinching 202 out of 243 Assembly seats, well beyond the two-thirds mark. The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), despite a hard-fought campaign, could manage only 25 seats, while its INDIAbloc allies like Congress and the Left added a few more, bringing their total to about 35.

In a surprising twist, Mayawatis Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), contesting solo, scraped through with just one seat. The Ramgarh assembly seat in Kaimur district went in favour of BSPs candidate, Satish Kumar, also known as Pintu Yadav.

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His victory is notable, having been secured by a razor-thin margin of just 30 votes, making it one of the closest outcomes of the 2025 Bihar assembly election.

This victory not only opened the BSPs account in Bihar in this Assembly election but also ended the partys five-year struggle to regain a foothold in the state after successive electoral setbacks and dwindling influence.

Satish Kumar defeated BJPs Ashok Kumar Singh by a narrow margin, with RJD securing third place in this constituency.

What Happened In 2020?

The BSPs win in this election is particularly poignant as the party had almost captured this seat in the 2020 election, only to lose by 189 votes to RJDs Sudhakar Singh. At that time, BSPs candidate, Ambika Singh, garnered 57,894 votes, just shy of RJDs 58,083, with BJPs Ashok Kumar Singh trailing in third place.

In the 2020 Bihar elections, the BSP managed to secure just one seat out of the 78 it contested. The lone winner, Mohd Zama Khan from Chainpur, later switched allegiance to the JD(U) and went on to serve as a minister in Nitish Kumars cabinet.

BSPs Narrow Comeback

Despite the close loss in Ramgarh in 2020, BSP remained resilient. In 2025, its perseverance paid off as it turned a painful near-miss by a mere 189 votes in 2020 into a triumphant win, this time by a slim margin on only 30 votes.

According to political experts, this result underscores the importance of patience and persistence in politics, where even the smallest margins can lead to significant victories.

Who Won How Many Seats In The Bihar Elections?

In terms of overall seats, the Bihar assembly election saw a total of 243 seats being contested. The NDA secured 202 seats, with BJP winning 89, JDU 85, LJP (RV) 19, HAM (S) 5, and RLM 4.

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The Mahagathbandhan won 34 seats, with RJD taking 25, Congress 6, CPI (ML) Liberation 2, and CPI (M) 1.

Among the other parties, AIMIM won 5 seats, BSP 1, and Indian Inclusive Party 1.

Location : Ramgarh, India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 11:25 IST

News elections A 30-Vote Thriller In Ramgarh: How Mayawati's BSP Pulled Off Its Only Win In Bihar

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Beyond Bihar Ballot: How BJP's Election Triumphs Are Built By Amit Shah On Strategy And Organisation

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 07:00 IST

The party is now gearing up for its next major challengeWest Bengal

Work began four to five months prior to polling, with Shah holding multiple rounds of discussions not just with BJP leaders but also with alliance partners to build trust and cohesion. (File image: @AmitShah/X/PTI)

For every major election, the BJP ultimately counts on one towering figure to take it across the finish linePrime Minister Narendra Modi, whose popularity and charisma have remained unshaken for over 11 years. Complementing this is the unmatched organisational brilliance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, which played a decisive role in the BJPs sweeping victory in Bihar.

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The BJPs numbers in the 2025 elections far surpass its previous performances, reflecting a strike rate of over 90%a remarkable feat by any measure.

This election was anything but easy. Nitish Kumar was seeking yet another term after nearly two decades in office, with anti-incumbency looming large. Amit Shah assumed the responsibility of steering the alliance through this challenging contest.

Work began four to five months prior to polling, with Shah holding multiple rounds of discussions not just with BJP leaders but also with alliance partners to build trust and cohesion. His methodical organisational approach helped shape a strong and united NDAbringing together the JD(U), Chirag Paswans LJP (RV), Upendra Kushwahas Rashtriya Lok Morcha, and Jitan Ram Manjhis HAM. Well ahead of the polls, the alliance had finalised caste equations seat by seat.

In the run-up to the elections, Shah conducted at least five organisational meetings at the district level and another five cluster-level meetings. During the campaign, he addressed 35 rallies and held one roadshow. Each visit to Bihar included strategy sessions with the core group, ensuring constant alignment and clarity.

Shah placed immense emphasis on robust booth-level engagement, repeatedly stressing that direct connect with booth workers was the key to maximising votes. His political instinct and experience also helped the alliance overcome early friction between the Janata Dal (United) and Chirag Paswans party.

Even though he no longer holds the BJP national presidents post, the party continues to rely on Amit Shahs guidance for crucial electoral battles. The Chanakya of Indian politics" has previously steered major turnaroundsbe it Maharashtra, Haryana, or Delhi.

But his mission is far from complete. With Prime Minister Modi declaring an aggressive push in states like Kerala and Tamil Naduregions where the BJP seeks deeper inroadsthe party is gearing up for its next major challenge: West Bengal. Under Shahs leadership as party president, the BJP had won an unprecedented 18 of 42 Lok Sabha seats here in 2019 and multiplied its assembly tally fivefold in 2021. With PM Modi vowing to end Bengals Jungle Raj", the next battle promises to be even more intense.

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For Amit Shah, the strategist-in-chief, the work has only just begun.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 07:00 IST

News elections Beyond Bihar Ballot: How BJP's Election Triumphs Are Built By Amit Shah On Strategy And Organisation

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'Victory Far-Fetched': TMC Leader On PM Modis Bengal Win Pitch As NDA Retains Power In Bihar

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 09:41 IST

Bengal Minister Shashi Panja hit back at PM Modis comments linking the BJPs Bihar sweep to possible change in Bengal, accusing him of disrespecting the state and its women.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi waves a 'gamcha' during the celebration of NDA's victory in the Bihar Assembly elections (Photo: PTI)

West Bengal Minister Shashi Panja on Friday issued a sharp rebuttal to Prime Minister Narendra Modis recent remarks linking the BJPs sweeping victory in Bihar to political change in Bengal.

Responding to the Prime Ministers statement that Ganga flows through Bihar and reaches Bengal, now, together with you, the BJP will uproot jungle raj from West Bengal as well," Panja said, PM Modi, dont be under any illusion. Victory in Bengal is far-fetched for the BJP."

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Accusing the Prime Minister of repeatedly disrespecting the state and its women, the minister added, You have insulted the women of Bengal, you have deprived funds to Bengal, you have deprived schematic funds to the women of Bengal, you have always shown disrespect."

You and the other leaders of the BJP have shown disrespect to the women of Bengal. In Bengal, the BJP is known as Bengal virodhi zameendars. So, this is the stature of the BJP. They are anti-Bengal, they carry an anti-Bengal sentiment," she said.

Thus, the forthcoming Assembly elections in Bengal do not hold any hope or any chance of any victory because women will give the right answer. Women will give the answer through democratic elections," the minister added.

#WATCH | On PM Modis statement Ganga flows through Bihar and reaches BengalNow, together with you, the BJP will uproot jungle raj from West Bengal as well," West Bengal Minister Shashi Panja says, PM Modi, dont be under any illusion. Victory in Bengal is far fetched for pic.twitter.com/CVpXBrozNK ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2025

The political exchange comes after the ruling NDA decimated the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar on Friday, retaining power with a three-fourths majority and reaffirming Prime Minister Modis popularity along with Chief Minister Nitish Kumars enduring appeal.

The NDAs two principal partners, the BJP and JD(U), achieved nearly an 85 per cent strike rate in the 101 seats each contested, helping the alliance cross the 200 paar" mark.

The BJP emerged as the single largest party with 89 seats, up from 74 in 2020, while the JD(U) won 85, up from 43.

Against this backdrop, Bengal BJP leader Dilip Ghosh on Saturday said the Bihar outcome had visibly unsettled the Trinamool Congress.

TMC is scared of the Bihar results. Why are they attacking wherever BJP workers are distributing sweets and celebrating? Let the winners celebrate. This shows that the TMC is scared," he said.

Emphasising that political currents cross state borders, Ghosh added, They consider Bengal separate even from India. But that is not the case. Bihar and Bengal are all parts of India. If there is a change, it impacts everyone. The impact of Bihar will be seen in Bengal too."

#WATCH | Kolkata, West Bengal: After NDAs landslide victory in Bihar, BJP leader Dilip Ghosh says, TMC is scared with the Bihar results. Why are they attacking wherever BJP workers are distributing sweets and celebrating? Let the winners celebrateThis shows that the TMC is pic.twitter.com/9abbtyUvkd ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2025

Following the BJPs massive win in Bihar, PM Modi on Friday hailed the victory as driven by a new positive MY, Mahila and Youth" formula, countering what he described as the RJDs earlier communal MY formula."

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Nitish Kumar thanked the electorate for the landslide mandate," crediting both central and state welfare schemes, women-centric outreach, and support from young voters for the victory.

ALSO READ | NDA Soars, Oppn Crashes In Big Bihar Verdict: 5 Major Takeaways From States 2025 Ballot Bulletin

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 09:40 IST

News elections 'Victory Far-Fetched': TMC Leader On PM Modis Bengal Win Pitch As NDA Retains Power In Bihar

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Bihar Election Results 2025: Vinod Tawde's Rise And Role In NDA's Dominant Win

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 14:01 IST

Vinod Tawde's strategic leadership was key to NDA's Bihar win, blending caste precision, welfare focus, and migrant mobilisation with Modi's appeal

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Vinod Tawde's rise within the BJP has been shaped by decades of organisational work rather than headline-grabbing politics. (PTI/File)

In the wake of the NDAs emphatic victory in Bihar, the political spotlight has largely rested on Prime Minister Narendra Modis formidable appeal, Chief Minister Nitish Kumars reputation for clean governance, Union Home Minister Amit Shahs organisational acumen, and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhans ground-level mobilisation. Yet, behind the scenes, a different architect quietly steered the campaign through some of its most complex political contours.

JP Nadda, BJP national president, and Amit Shah had, much ahead of the polls, reposed their trust in Vinod Tawde, the partys national general secretary who was tasked with overseeing the politically intricate Bihar unit. The decision had drawn criticism at the time, with observers questioning the rationale of appointing a Maharashtra leader in a state with a sensitive history of regional tensions linked to alleged Bihari insults. But Tawde turned the appointment into an opportunity to demonstrate his organisational depth. By the time voting began, even critics conceded that he had reengineered Bihars election machinery with unusual precision.

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Vinod Tawdes Rise In The BJP

Tawdes rise within the BJP has been shaped by decades of organisational work rather than headline-grabbing politics. Born in 1963 in Mumbais Girangaon mill district, he is considered a son of the soil" by the Maratha community, a constituency the BJP has been attempting to reclaim since 2019.

Fluent in Marathi and known for his ability to adapt to local accents and cultures, Tawde carries the imprint of the RSS. He joined the ABVP in 1980, rose to national general secretary by 1988, and entered the BJP formally in 1994. His political mentors included Nitin Gadkari and Pramod Mahajan, under whom he learnt the art of sangathan, or organisation-building.

In Maharashtra, Tawde held key portfolios under the Devendra Fadnavis government and also served as Leader of Opposition when the BJP was out of power. His firm yet affable approach has earned him the reputation of a problem-solver who gets the job done with a smile".

The Bihar Mandate: Tawdes Deep-Dive Strategy

According to senior BJP leaders, Tawde began mapping Bihar months before the campaign gained momentum. Acting on inputs from Amit Shah, he conducted a constituency-by-constituency analysis of caste alignments across all 243 seats. The decision that even alliance seats would have candidates chosen based on BJPs caste assessments became a cornerstone of the campaign. Nearly 9% of the alliance accepted this formula, a rare feat in Bihars fractious coalition landscape.

For the first time, NDA conferences were held in every constituency, allowing booth-level coordination between alliance partners well in advance. Insiders say this reduced friction, strengthened cadre-level communication, and lifted morale long before the Oppositions campaign gained coherence.

A strategist closely involved in negotiations recalled the shadow of 2020, when Chirag Paswans breakaway campaign damaged the JD(U). This time, Tawde ensured that Paswans 6% vote share was secured, not by expecting seat wins but by guaranteeing influence where it mattered.

Tawdes interpersonal skills have long been cited as his defining strength. Whether dealing with senior party bosses, disgruntled rebels or grassroots workers, he is known to engage with composure and tact.

A Maharashtra leader pointed to a recent example when former BJP MP Gopal Shettys rebellion threatened to undermine a crucial seat in Mumbais Borivli. Tawde, sources say, defused the situation by assuring Shetty a ministerial berth, a move that soothed egos and secured victory. This approach, party insiders say, was replicated in Bihar when dealing with prickly alliance negotiations.

NDAs Women-Centric Welfare And Caste Precision

The NDAs promise to deposit Rs 10,000 into womens bank accounts was widely seen as a turning point. But leaders close to Tawde insist the welfare plank was only a visible layer of a deeper strategy designed to reach communities yet untouched by highways, airports and mega-infrastructure projects.

The manifestos emphasis on cash support, rations and essential household aid was crafted with the understanding that interior Bihar required immediate assistance while waiting for long-term development. Senior leaders say PM Modi insisted on monitoring these commitments personally.

In Magadh and Shahabad, the pairing of Pawan Singh and Upendra Kushwaha helped consolidate Rajput and Kushwaha votes. Opposition attempts to fracture this coalition, BJP leaders say, failed to gain traction.

Meanwhile, the party deliberately ignored allegations made by political strategist Prashant Kishor, believing that engaging would grant him unnecessary political relevance.

Mobilising Migrant Workers

Another element of the strategy involved ensuring high voter turnout among migrant workers. Around 5 lakh migrant labourers were reportedly transported back from Haryana alone, in a coordinated effort overseen by Sunil Sharma. Similar arrangements were executed in BJP-ruled states, significantly widening the NDAs support base on polling day. The RSS, under senior functionary Alok Kumar, worked silently at the back end to synchronise cadre efforts.

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The Modi Factor

While Tawde managed part of the backend, the front-facing campaign continued to hinge on Prime Minister Narendra Modis rallies, which consistently saw surges in local turnout. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emerged as one of the most sought-after campaigners after Modi and Shah.

Location : Bihar, India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 14:01 IST

News elections Bihar Election Results 2025: Vinod Tawde's Rise And Role In NDA's Dominant Win

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Bihar Election Results 2025: What Are The 5 Challenges Before The New Govt?

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 15:29 IST

The NDA government's tenure is likely to serve as a critical examination of the BJP-JD(U) coaliation's ability to deliver on its promise of a 'new Bihar'

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Nitish Kumar's image as the champion of good governance has long been central to Bihar's political narrative.

Bihar enters a decisive phase as the new government prepares to take charge with the state Assembly elections results declared on Friday, November 14. The incoming administration, expected to be led by JD-U chief Nitish Kumar, inherits a state where hopes for economic revival run parallel to longstanding concerns over governance, unemployment and fragile coalition dynamics.

This tenure is likely to serve as a critical examination of the governments ability to deliver on its promise of a new Bihar. Here is an in-depth look at the five major challenges that will shape the states political and developmental landscape.

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Unemployment

Among Bihars most pressing concerns is the widening employment gap, particularly among the youth. Despite the official unemployment rate hovering around 3% in 2023-24, economists point out that these figures conceal widespread underemployment. A significant number of working-age residents remain dependent on informal and home-based occupations, with few opportunities for salaried positions.

According to the Economic Survey 2024-25, the manufacturing segment of the secondary sector accounts for less than 10% of the states Gross State Value Added (GSVA), reflecting a weak industrial base. The result is mass migration to other states, a trend the new government must urgently address.

A strategic push for industrial investment, expansion of private-sector avenues, and timely delivery of government employment schemes will be crucial in stemming this exodus and generating sustained livelihoods within the state.

Economic Development and Industrial Growth

Bihar continues to trail behind most states in GDP, per capita income and manufacturing activity. Industrial stagnation is evident from the decline in the number of operational factories, from 3,132 in 2013-14 to 2,782 in 2022-23. This structural weakness poses a direct challenge to the states economic ambitions.

For Bihar to reposition itself as an attractive business destination, the government must pursue aggressive implementation of the Bihar Industrial Investment Promotion Package 2025, which offers incentives such as free land and interest rebates. Strengthening infrastructure like roads, electricity supply and digital connectivity will be pivotal in attracting fresh private investments and reigniting economic momentum.

Law and Order

The image of Nitish Kumar as the champion of good governance has long been central to Bihars political narrative. However, concerns raised by the Opposition over the alleged return of jungle raj" continue to resonate. Recent incidents connected to political rivalry and sporadic criminal activity have revived debates over the governments policing standards.

The new government will need to reinforce public confidence by tightening law enforcement mechanisms, curbing corruption, and ensuring responsive and impartial administration. The credibility of the regime will significantly hinge on its ability to maintain a visible and consistent decline in crime rates.

Coalition Management

Though the NDA has secured a comfortable mandate, managing the balance of power within the coalition remains a delicate task. The altered seat tally between the BJP and JD(U) has shifted the political equation, and allocating key portfolios without triggering discontent will require careful negotiation.

Smaller alliance partners, though no longer pivotal for crossing the majority mark, will still expect representation and influence. Any internal discord, whether over leadership, ministerial allocations or policy direction, could hamper governance and delay legislative initiatives. Sustained coordination will therefore be essential to ensure stability.

Social Welfare

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Bihars annual confrontation with natural disasters, particularly floods triggered by the Kosi and other rivers, continues to affect lives and derail development. The new government must prioritise a long-term, integrated flood management strategy aimed at reducing displacement, crop loss and livelihood disruption.

Simultaneously, the effective rollout of welfare schemes including Jeevika initiatives, free electricity promises, enhanced pensions and the Chief Ministers Women Employment Scheme will determine public perception of the administrations efficiency. Ensuring that these benefits reach citizens without procedural delays or corruption will be central to protecting the governments reputation.

Location : Bihar, India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 15:29 IST

News elections Bihar Election Results 2025: What Are The 5 Challenges Before The New Govt?

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Bihar Election Results: Does Tejashwi Yadav Have The Numbers To Be Leader Of Opposition?

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 17:27 IST

As Tejashwi Yadav prepares for a role that demands resilience more than authority, the road ahead for the Opposition promises to be challenging

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Tejashwi Yadav's Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has managed to win 25 seats in the Bihar Assembly polls 2025. (File ohoto)

The Bihar Assembly Election 2025 concluded with a sweeping mandate for the NDA, leaving the Opposition grappling with one of its weakest performances in recent years. As the ruling coalition celebrates its emphatic victory, attention within the Grand Alliance has shifted to a crucial question, who will occupy the chair of the Leader of the Opposition in the new House?

Under legislative norms, a party must secure at least 10% of the total seats in the Assembly to claim the position. With Bihars 243-member House, the threshold stands at 24 seats. Tejashwi Yadavs Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has managed to win 25 seats, just clearing the mark. This technically paves the way for the former Deputy Chief Minister to assume the role. Yet, the real challenge lies in helming what is now an exceptionally diminished Opposition.

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The 2025 mandate has reduced the Opposition benches to a mere 35 seats, an alarming contraction marked by a collective loss of 79 seats compared to the previous Assembly. The RJD, which once aspired to lead the electoral contest, saw its influence shrink sharply, and its allies fared even worse.

The Congress, which had secured 19 seats in the last election, could win only 6 this time, a deficit of 13 seats. The Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) failed to open its account altogether despite its chief Mukesh Sahnis assertive campaign. The parties, who once held 16 seats, have been reduced to just 3.

The NDA, meanwhile, secured 202 seats, with the BJP emerging as the single largest party at 89 seats, closely followed by the JD(U) at 85. Smaller allies rounded off the coalitions commanding position.

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Interestingly, even in defeat, the RJD retained the highest vote share in the state. With 23.42% of the total votes polled, it remained ahead of both the BJP (20.45%) and the JD(U) (19.61%). However, its inability to translate its vote base into seats underscores a widening gap between popularity on paper and performance at the booth.

As Tejashwi Yadav prepares for a role that demands resilience more than authority, the road ahead for the Opposition promises to be challenging. The shrinking numbers raise larger questions about its ability to provide meaningful scrutiny and counterweight to a government armed with a formidable mandate.

Location : Bihar, India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 17:27 IST

News elections Bihar Election Results: Does Tejashwi Yadav Have The Numbers To Be Leader Of Opposition?

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Bihar Elections District-Wise Results: No Trace Of Mahagathbandhan In These Areas

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 18:06 IST

While Nitish Kumar prepares for yet another term, Tejashwi Yadav faces the task of rebuilding an opposition that has suffered a dramatic erosion of its base

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The Grand Alliance faced significant losses, securing just 35 seats and none in 15 districts. (PTI)

A sweeping mandate in the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections has dramatically altered the states political contours, with the NDA sscuring one of its most decisive victories in recent memory. The coalition clinched 202 of the 243 seats, storming past the majority mark and registering its second instance of crossing the 200-seat threshold since 2010. The Grand Alliance, by contrast, suffered one of its worst electoral setbacks, finishing with just 35 seats and failing to open its account in 15 districts.

The Election Commissions district-wise figures reveal that the entire stretches of northern, central, and southern Bihar turned into NDA strongholds overnight, underscoring the coalitions performance on the back of development narratives, welfare outreach, and a visibly tighter organisational structure.

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NDAs Overwhelming Mandate

The BJP emerged as the single-largest party with 89 seats, closely followed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumars JD(U), which bagged 85. Smaller partners recorded significant gains as well  Chirag Paswans LJP(RV) secured 19 seats, Jitan Ram Manjhis HAM(S) picked up 5, and Upendra Kushwahas RLM claimed 4.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi termed the outcome a victory over appeasement politics", adding that the mandate reflected a rejection of divisive rhetoric.

This supermajority ensures continuity for the ruling coalition and paves the way for Nitish Kumars tenth swearing-in as Chief Minister, marking yet another milestone in his decades-long political career.

Grand Alliance Falters Across The Map

The Grand Alliance, comprising the RJD, Congress, and Left parties, registered steep losses across virtually every region. The RJD, once the fulcrum of opposition politics in the state, won only 25 seats. The Congress managed 6, while the Left parties together picked up 3.

What stung the coalition most was its complete wipeout in 15 districts, among them Shivhar, Supaul, Purnia, Darbhanga, Banka, Nalanda, Bhojpur, and Arwal. Analysts have pointed to delayed seat-sharing decisions, internal disagreements, and a fragmented campaign as key reasons behind the collapse.

District-Wise Performance

North Bihar:

West Champaran: NDA 7, Grand Alliance 2

NDA 7, Grand Alliance 2 East Champaran: NDA 11, Grand Alliance 1

NDA 11, Grand Alliance 1 Sheohar: NDA 1

NDA 1 Sitamarhi: NDA 8

NDA 8 Madhubani: NDA 9, Grand Alliance 1

NDA 9, Grand Alliance 1 Supaul: NDA 5

NDA 5 Araria: NDA 2, Grand Alliance 3, AIMIM 1

NDA 2, Grand Alliance 3, AIMIM 1 Kishanganj: NDA 2, Grand Alliance 1, AIMIM 1

NDA 2, Grand Alliance 1, AIMIM 1 Purnia: NDA 6, AIMIM 1

NDA 6, AIMIM 1 Katihar: NDA 4, Grand Alliance 3, Others 1

NDA 4, Grand Alliance 3, Others 1 Saharsa: NDA 2, Grand Alliance 2

NDA 2, Grand Alliance 2 Darbhanga: NDA 10

NDA 10 Muzaffarpur: NDA 10, Grand Alliance 1

The pattern held steady across central Bihar as well, where long-time political battlefields shifted decisively in favour of the NDA.

Central And Kosi Regions:

Gopalganj: NDA 6

NDA 6 Siwan: NDA 7, RJD 1

NDA 7, RJD 1 Saran: NDA 7, Grand Alliance 3

NDA 7, Grand Alliance 3 Vaishali: NDA 7, Grand Alliance 1

NDA 7, Grand Alliance 1 Samastipur: NDA 7, Grand Alliance 3

NDA 7, Grand Alliance 3 Begusarai: NDA 5, Grand Alliance 2

NDA 5, Grand Alliance 2 Khagaria: NDA 4

NDA 4 Bhagalpur: NDA 7

NDA 7 Banka: NDA 5

NDA 5 Munger: NDA 3

NDA 3 Lakhisarai: NDA 2

NDA 2 Sheikhpura: NDA 2

NDA 2 Nalanda: NDA 7

Several of these districts had witnessed close contests in 2020, but voters overwhelmingly shifted their support this time, turning the map distinctly saffron.

Magadh Region

Patna: NDA 11, Grand Alliance 3

NDA 11, Grand Alliance 3 Bhojpur: NDA 7

NDA 7 Buxar: NDA 3, Grand Alliance 1

NDA 3, Grand Alliance 1 Rohtas: NDA 6, Grand Alliance 1

NDA 6, Grand Alliance 1 Arwal: NDA 2

NDA 2 Jehanabad: NDA 1, Grand Alliance 2

NDA 1, Grand Alliance 2 Aurangabad: NDA 5, Grand Alliance 1

NDA 5, Grand Alliance 1 Gaya: NDA 8, Grand Alliance 2

NDA 8, Grand Alliance 2 Nawada: NDA 4, Grand Alliance 1

NDA 4, Grand Alliance 1 Jamui: NDA 3, Grand Alliance 1

The NDAs resurgence in Magadh has been attributed to a combination of caste recalibration, welfare schemes that reached deep rural pockets, and unified messaging around governance.

Collapse of the Grand Alliance in Shahabad

Once a stronghold for the opposition, the Shahabad region (Buxar, Bhojpur, Rohtas, Kaimur) witnessed a political upheaval. In 2020, the Grand Alliance had dominated the belt. In 2025, it retained only three seats. The NDA swept the rest, buoyed by consolidation among its core supporters and coordinated booth-level efforts.

Political observers believe the Grand Alliances defeat was not solely the result of the NDAs strength but also its own organisational weaknesses. With caste arithmetic undercut by competing factional claims, and messaging diluted by leadership disconnect, the coalition struggled to present a cohesive vision.

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Prashant Kishors Jan Suraaj Party, which had attempted to position itself as an alternative platform, also failed to make an electoral impression.

The 2025 verdict signalled a renewed phase of political stability in Bihar. While Nitish Kumar prepares for yet another term, Tejashwi Yadav faces the task of rebuilding an opposition that has suffered a dramatic erosion of its base. With economic revival, jobs, infrastructure expansion, and caste realignments at the heart of public expectations, the mandate reflects Bihars preference for uniform governance and performance-driven politics.

Location : Bihar, India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 18:06 IST

News elections Bihar Elections District-Wise Results: No Trace Of Mahagathbandhan In These Areas

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Chinese, Cuban representatives discuss joint efforts to build community of shared future

Xinhua) 15:50, November 15, 2025

HAVANA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Representatives from China and Cuba have recently held in-depth exchanges on jointly building a China-Cuba community with a shared future and other topics during a seminar in the Cuban capital.

Speaking at the Hongting Forum: Seminar in Havana on Wednesday, participants said the fourth plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) adopted recommendations for the formulation of the country's 15th Five-Year Plan, outlining a blueprint for China's development over the next five years and providing new opportunities for cooperation in jointly building a community of shared future between China and Cuba.

In his video speech, President of Xinhua News Agency Fu Hua said that the session illustrated to the world the grand vision of Chinese modernization and sent a strong signal of China's commitment to opening-up, cooperation and mutual benefit with the outside world.

Over the next five years, China will unswervingly expand high-level opening up, share development opportunities with other countries around the world, inject strong impetus into and provide strong certainty to the global economic recovery, Fu noted.

Hua Xin, Chinese ambassador to Cuba, said the session made strategic arrangements to promote major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics.

As the world's largest developing country and an important member of the Global South, China will continue to hold high the banner of building a community with a shared future for humanity, he said.

Hua added that in 2022, the two countries' leaders reached an important consensus on jointly building a community with a shared future between China and Cuba, making Cuba the first country in the Western Hemisphere to do so.

In the future, China will continue to work with Cuba to promote the building of the community to a higher level and bring more benefits to the people of both countries, Hua said.

Alfonso Noya, president of the Cuban Institute of Information and Social Communication, said the session fully demonstrated that China's development over the next five years will focus on social stability and people's well-being, and will surely become a model of sustainable, high-quality development.

He also expressed the belief that Cuba and China, joining hands and working in unity and cooperation, will bolster the voices of the Global South and promote world peace, justice and development.

Jose Ramon Cabanas, director of Cuba's research center for international policy, said China's development achievements reflect scientific thinking and systematic planning, offering valuable insights for Cuba as it explores a development path suited to its national conditions.

The forum was jointly hosted by China's official Xinhua News Agency, the Institute of Party History and Literature of the CPC Central Committee, and the Cuban Institute of Information and Social Communication. Almost 100 guests from the political, governmental, academic and media sectors of both countries attended the event.

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Liang Jun)
By Iain Withers and Tommy Reggiori Wilkes

LONDON (Reuters) -The explosion in the value of artificial intelligence stocks poses risks to global markets for which there is "no playbook", the CEO of Deutsche Bank's 1.1 trillion euro ($1.3 trillion) money manager DWS told Reuters, amid growing concerns that the sector is in a bubble.

The AI stocks frenzy has drawn comparisons with the 1990s dotcom boom and bust, but DWS's Stefan Hoops said the recent rally was different as it was being driven by everyday retail investors  not institutions  and they had yet to be tested.

The so-called 'Magnificent Seven' - including Nvidia and Meta - have seen their share prices soar, fuelling fears about the scale of market exposure to just a few names. Technology firms are among the stock market's big fallers in recent days, although they are still well up on the year.

Frankfurt-based DWS is examining whether the boom could unravel at a faster pace, Hoops said in an interview on Thursday, adding that the many retail investors sitting on big gains on stocks such as Nvidia could be quick to sell if sentiment soured.

While institutional investors studied traditional metrics to assess if stocks are overvalued, retail investors often do not and many 'buy the dip' when there are declines, Hoops said. How they would behave during a sustained drop was unknown, he added.

DRUMBEAT OF WARNINGS ABOUT POTENTIAL AI BUBBLE

"There's no playbook, there's no real history for something like that," Hoops said at DWS's London office.

"What's happening is this most amazing wealth creation (for retail investors)... Nvidia stock is now worth $5 trillion. My question is simply, could it go to $100 trillion? Or would at some point you be the first one to say, 'You know what, this is getting shaky?'"

The German giant believes AI will transform industries and Hoops did not predict a tumble, but said more evidence was needed beyond efficiency gains to sustain lofty valuations.

Amid a drumbeat of warnings about a potential AI bubble, the CEOs of Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs have cautioned in recent weeks that equities could be heading for a drawdown.

AI-related stocks have accounted for 75% of the S&P 500's returns since OpenAI launched ChatGPT in November 2022, JPMorgan's investments arm calculates. U.S. retail investors' share of wealth in equities is at its highest level in at least 75 years, Capital Economics has said.

DWS still "loves" the data centre sector - which serves AI-driven demand for computing power - and will invest in more built assets, Hoops said, adding it was selling its stake in data centre fund NorthC as it had matured and the time was right.
Bihar Elections: These IPS Officers Quit Their Jobs To Contest, Check Out Who Lost

Curated By :

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 15:38 IST

Their entry drew wide curiosity, and the results now clearly show how voters judged these high-profile former IPS officers as they attempted to make their mark in politics

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These former officers drew attention trying to turn bureaucratic clout into political wins. (News18 Hindi)

The NDA cruised to a comfortable majority in the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, winning a clear edge over the Mahagathbandhan in the final seat tally. Within this broader outcome emerged a notable subplot: the electoral fate of former IPS officers who had traded their uniforms for politics.

Their entry had sparked curiosity across the state, and the results now offer a clear picture of how voters responded to these high-profile bureaucrats-turned-candidates.

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Here are the results for these ex-IPS officers:

Former IPS Shivdeep Lande: Shivdeep Lande, a well-known officer from Bihar, resigned to contest as an Independent candidate from the Jamalpur Assembly seat in Munger district. Unfortunately, Lande did not fare well, losing significantly to JDUs Nachiketa. Lande secured approximately 14,000 votes, finishing in third place.

Former IPS Anand Mishra: Anand Mishra contested from the Buxar Assembly seat on a BJP ticket. Mishra scored a decisive win over Congress nominee Sanjay Kumar Tiwari, popularly known as Munna Tiwari, securing a lead of 28,533 votes. He finished with 84,901 votes, while Tiwari trailed with 56,548.

Former Tamil Nadu DGP Brij Kishore Dubey: IPS Kishore Dubey, known as BK Ravi, originally from Samastipur, ran from the Rosera seat in Samastipur on a Congress ticket. Ravi secured around 70,000 votes but finished second, with the winning BJP candidate, Birender Kumar, garnering more than 120,000 votes.

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Former Bihar Police DGP Rakesh Kumar Mishra: IPS Rakesh Kumar Mishra stood from the Darbhanga seat on Prashant Kishors Jan Suraj Party ticket. Mishra finished third with just over 11,000 votes, while BJPs Sanjay Saraogi won with more than 97,000 votes.

Former IPS Jai Prakash Singh: Lastly, Jai Prakash Singh contested from the Chhapra Assembly seat on a Jan Suraj Party ticket. Singh, from Saran district in Bihar, previously served in the Himachal Pradesh cadre and retired as ADG.

Location : Bihar, India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 15:38 IST

News elections Bihar Elections: These IPS Officers Quit Their Jobs To Contest, Check Out Who Lost

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Decoding Bihar Election Results: How NDA Won, Why BJP Surged, And What Sank Mahagathbandhan

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 13:51 IST

While the NDA put up its best performance since 2010 in Bihar, the Mahagathbandhan saw its worst.

PM Modi Arrives At BJP HQ, Waves Gamcha As NDA Sweeps Bihar | ANI Image

With 202 seats, the NDA has decimated the opposition, putting up its best performance since 2010  and Nitish Kumar will be back as the Chief Minister for the tenth time.

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But how did this happen? What went so wrong for Mahagathbandhan in this crushing defeat?

Lets decode all this and much more.

BJP won 89 seats out of the 101 it contested  an 88 per cent strike rate. 85 seats for the JDU which also contested 101 seats  an 84 per cent strike rate. JDU has almost doubled its seat tally from the last assembly elections when it had shrunk to 43. CM Nitish Kumar has made a loud statement.

But look at the decimation on the other side.

From being the single largest party in 2020 with 75 seats, the RJD has crashed to just 25 seats. The strike rate of Tejashwi Yadav is just 17 per cent since the RJD contested the maximum seats among all major parties  at 143.

The Congress has performed worse  winning just 6 seats out of the 61 it contested. A poor strike rate of 10 per cent. This is the worst performance of both the RJD and Congress since 2010 in Bihar.

RJD still has the largest vote share with 1.15 crore votes, while the BJP got 1 crore votes, the JDU got 97 lakh votes and the Congress got 44 lakh votes.

But in the complex alliance maths of Bihar, the translation into seats was decisive with the opposition reduced to just 35 seats and the ruling Bihar alliance notching up 202 seats.

NDA PARTIES SEATS WON SEATS CONTESTED STRIKE RATE BJP 89 101 88% NITISH KUMAR 85 101 84% CHIRAG PASWAN 19 29 65% JITIN MANJHI 5 6 83% UPENDRA KHUSHWAHA 4 6 67% TOTAL 202 243 83%

MAHAGATHBANDAN SEATS WON SEATS CONTESTED STRIKE RATE RJD 25 143 17% CONGRESS 6 61 10% LEFT 3 29 10% TOTAL 34 233 15%

There were two big flop shows. Prashant Kishors Jan Suraaj Party did not win even a single seat. Mukesh Sahnis VIP also won nothing. Clearly, they both were overrated.

Lets break down the exact issues that surged the NDA ahead  and the issues that pulled the Mahagathbandhan back. No rhetoric, no noise  just the clear takeaways from the ground.

WHAT WORKED FOR THE NDA

Number 1. The Rs 10,000 Scheme for 1.3 Crore Women: Nitish Kumars Rs 10,000 assistance for women became one of the most decisive factors. For many women voters, this wasnt just a cash transfer  it felt like economic security and continuity of Nitishs welfare-first approach. This created a strong and loyal womens vote bank for the NDA.

Number 2: PM Modis Katta and Jungleraaj" Messaging: Modis campaign hit hard on law and order. His repeated warnings about katta" and a return of jungleraaj" struck a chord  especially with first-time voters, women and urban voters. It revived old memories and framed the NDA as the safer choice.

Number 3. The Free Electricity Scheme: The promise of free power for all domestic consumers cut across caste and class lines. Electricity is universal  and this scheme helped NDA tap into lower-income households and rural families who saw immediate benefit.

Number 4. Nitish Kumars Personal Image: Despite political flip-flops, Nitish still retains credibility in Bihar. His governance record, women-centric schemes, prohibition, and administrative style gave NDA a trusted face. In tight contests, this personal goodwill mattered.

Number 5. Development Backed by the Centre: Roads, expressways, bridges, rail work, central schemes, and overall infrastructure support helped the NDA project a development-plus-stability narrative. Many voters felt the NDA ensured progress and continuity  not disruption.

NOW, WHAT DID NOT WORK FOR THE MGB

Number 1. The Shadow of Jungleraaj: The old image of lawlessness associated with RJD refused to fade. Even though Tejashwi campaigned on jobs and development, the legacy image stuck  hurting MGBs credibility.

Number 2. Yadav Vote Leakage: For the first time in years, a section of the core Yadav vote shifted away from the RJD. Reasons varied: local dissatisfaction, Nitishs credibility among older Yadavs, and BJPs outreach strategies.

Even a small leakage was enough to damage the MGB in close seats. Muslim votes also seemed to have slipped away in Seemanchal where Asaduddin Owaisis Party has won 5 seats.

Number 3. The Unrealistic Job Promise: Tejashwis massive job guarantee generated enthusiasm, but ground voters doubted its feasibility. Many saw it as a political promise, not a practical plan  reducing its impact on final voting.

Number 4. Weak Congress Performance on 61 Seats: Congress held 61 seats, but its strike rate was poor. The party failed to mobilise voters or strengthen the cadre, dragging the alliance overall. This seat distribution proved costly for MGB.

Number 5. The SIR" Controversy Became a Non-Issue: What the Opposition thought would become a major election flashpoint ended up having zero traction. Voters didnt see it as a priority, and the issue faded  wasting valuable campaign time for the MGB, courtesy of Rahul Gandhi.

In short, the NDAs mix of welfare, women-focused schemes, strong messaging, and Nitishs goodwill created a winning coalition.

The MGB, despite high-energy rallies and big crowds, couldnt overcome old perceptions, weak allies, and messaging misfires.

X-FACTORS

There are two more X-Factors in this election, which have a link from the past.

First, Bihar Poll Results Are Proof That Rahul Gandhis Chor Or Chori Claims Cant Steal Modis Thunder.

It was Chowkidar Chor Hai campaign in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. And it was Vote Chori in 2025 Bihar elections. Both slogans were the brainchild of Rahul Gandhi. And both have led to spectacular poll losses.

This will be some food for thought for the Congress party over how it is tackling the Modi-led BJP. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has predicted that the Congress could split in the future.

People resoundingly rejected Rahuls charge against Narendra Modi in 2019 with a massive win for the NDA in the Centre. And in Bihar, people have again rejected the charge of Rahul Gandhi that votes were being stolen by the BJP. The chori campaign of Rahul Gandhi has no takers, with his party reduced to just 6 seats in Bihar.

The other X factor is maybe the guilt of 2024 elections leading to massive voting in favour of PM Modi.

It is a well-known anecdotal and psephological fact that people of India felt a sense of guilt after 2024 Lok Sabha polls when BJP got just 240 seats. As a result, they have voted decisively after the Lok Sabha elections in favour of BJP: Haryana, Maharashtra, Delhi and now Bihar.

Remember the evening of 4th June 2024 at the BJP Headquarters. Modi came to address BJP workers after the NDA returned to power for the third successive time. However, the mood was not euphoric. The fact that the BJP finished at 240 seats was not lost on anyone. The image of a disappointed Narendra Modi travelled to every corner of India.

It was maybe then when the people of India instantly felt  that they had wronged a man like Modi. And that they will not fail to support Modi whole-heartedly.

What happened next? BJP returned to power in Haryana.

The NDA swept Maharashtra and the BJP won 132 seats.

Then came Delhi, where the BJP won for the first time in three decades.

And now, came the Bihar tsunami.

This is a strong message from the countrys people in supporting Modi.

This also shows up in the fact that the total number of seats won by the Congress in the six assembly elections since 2024 is less than the number of seats won by the BJP in Bihar alone. The Prime Minister also mentioned this on Friday. While the BJP won 89 seats in Bihar, the Congress has won just 80 seats together in the last six elections including Bihar! People have firmly rejected the Congress since 2024.

CONGRESS VS BJP IN LAST 5 STATE POLLS

ASSEMBLY POLL SEATS WON BY BJP SEATS WON BY CONGRESS HARYANA 48 37 DELHI 48 0 MAHARASHTRA 132 16 BIHAR 89 5 JHARKHAND 21 16 JAMMU & KASHMIR 29 6 TOTAL 367 80

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Remember, Bihar is Indias third most populated state. People from Bihar are known for their hardworking nature and are present in every part of the nation. Bihar is roughly 89% rural. Thus, rural India is standing firmly with Narendra Modi. Bihar voted for dignity and self-respect.

About the Author Aman Sharma Aman Sharma, News Director For CNN News18 and News18 English, has over two decades of experience in covering the wide spectrum of politics and the Prime Ministers Office. He has written widely on pol... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 10:08 IST

News elections Decoding Bihar Election Results: How NDA Won, Why BJP Surged, And What Sank Mahagathbandhan

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Disappointed But Undeterred: Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj After Bihar Poll Wipeout

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 16:50 IST

Jan Suraaj National President Uday Singh said that the party's high-octane campaign on unemployment, migration and the absence of industries failed to translate into votes.

Jan Suraaj Partys national president Uday Singh

Election strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishors Jan Suraaj Party, which drew a blank in its debut in the Bihar Assembly Elections, on Saturday expressed disappointment over its performance but said that it wont deter and would continue its opposition to the ruling NDA.

Jan Suraaj National President Uday Singh said that the partys high-octane campaign on unemployment, migration and the absence of industries failed to translate into votes.

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We are disappointed with the outcome of the assembly polls but not upset. Though we have not won even a single seat, we will keep opposing the ruling NDA," he said as quoted by news agency PTI.

He further acknowledged that the party struggled to win the confidence of Muslim voters and argued that the election results also reflected voters reluctance to return the RJD to power.

#WATCH | #BiharElection2025 | Patna: On party founder Prashant Kishor, Jan Suraaj president Uday Singh says, "He was not at all on the backfootWe might have been at a greater loss had he contested the election. At that time, we felt that sending him into the election would pic.twitter.com/bp7B4jQ1WF ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2025

The mandate also proves that the people did not want the return of RJD," Singh said.

While referring to Bihars Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, under which Rs 10,000 each was transferred to the bank accounts of women in the state, Singh claimed that the cash transfer of Rs 40,000 crore to the accounts of women by the ruling NDA government in Bihar played an important role" in its victory.

This was an attempt by the government to bribe people ahead of the polls. The votes were purchased. The cash benefits were transferred even after the model code of conduct came into force," he alleged.

The Jan Suraaj leader further said the party would closely watch how the government proceeds with its commitment to transfer the remaining Rs 2 lakh promised to women under the scheme. He also asserted that the NDA had secured a massive majority despite not crossing 50 per cent of the total vote share.

On whether Kishor would remain active in politics after the JD(U) crossed the benchmark he had set for quitting, Singh said, You should ask this question to Kishor only." Kishor had earlier said he would quit politics if Nitish Kumars party crossed 25 seats; the JD(U) eventually won 85.

Bihar Poll Results

The ruling NDA on Friday decimated the Mahagathbandhan, crossing the 200-seat mark in the 243-member assembly. The BJP and JD(U) together recorded an 85% strike rate in the 101 seats each contested. With the final tally placing the NDA at 202 seats and the Opposition alliance reduced to just 34, the mandate stands out as one of the most emphatic the state has witnessed in more than a decade.

The outcome dealt a severe blow to Jan Suraaj Party, which failed to win a single seat despite high expectations and Kishors own bold claims that the JD(U) would struggle to surpass 25 seats.

Within the ruling coalition, the BJP led the charge with 89 seats, followed closely by the JD(U) at 85. Strong performances by allies  LJP(RV) with 19 seats, HAM with 5, RLM with 4, along with several smaller partners  cemented the NDAs dominance across the state.

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In sharp contrast, the Mahagathbandhan crumbled under the wave. The RJD managed just 25 seats, the Congress collapsed to 6, and the Left parties together secured only 3. The BSP and IIP picked up one seat each.

(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) degre... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 16:50 IST

News elections Disappointed But Undeterred: Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj After Bihar Poll Wipeout

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How 208 More Votes Could Have Given BJP Its Best-Ever Tally In Bihar

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News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 10:34 IST

The party lost Ramgarh to the BSP by 30 votes and Dhaka to the RJD by 178 votes. Had these contests gone its way, the BJPs tally would have risen to 92 seats

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PM Modi arrives at BJP headquarters after the Bihar mandate. Image/ANI

The BJPs victory in Bihar could have been historic, had the party managed to win just two more seatsa gap of only 208 votes.

The party lost Ramgarh to the BSP by 30 votes and Dhaka to the RJD by 178 votes. Had these contests gone its way, the BJPs tally would have risen to 92 seats, its best-ever performance in a Bihar assembly election. The record was missed by just two seats in 2025.

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As it stands, the BJP has won 89 seats in the results declared for the Bihar assembly polls on Friday. The BJP registered its best performance in Bihar in 2010 when it secured 91 seats.

Beyond Dhaka and Ramgarh, the BJP came close in a handful of other constituencies as well. It lost Forbesganj by 221 votes and Chanpatia by 602 votes, even as it won Agiaon by just 95 votes and Taraiya by 1,329 votes. The narrowest victory in the entire state came in Sandesh, where JD(U)an NDA allywon by just 27 votes. The 2025 Bihar election was, in many seats, a battle of mere handful of votes.

In three assembly seats in Bihar, the victory margin was less than 100 votesAgiaon where BJP won by just 95 votes; Ramgarh and Sandesh.

On at least 15 seats, the victory margin was above 50,000 votes and all of these were bagged by the NDA parties. Over half of theseeightwere bagged by the BJP.

The BJP won Digha by 59,079 votes, Aurai by 57,206 votes, Jhanjharpur by 54,849 votes, Jamui by 54,498 votes, Pirpainti by 53,107 votes, Bankipur by 51,936 votes, Bathnaha by 51,769 votes and Rosera by 50,533 votes.

Even as the BJP missed a new record in the 2025 elections, it still emerged as the biggest party in terms of seats won, even as the RJD secured the highest vote share at 23 per cent.

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The trophy for the highest victory margin in Bihar elections went to the JDU. The partys Kaladhar Prasad Mandal bagged the Rupauli Assembly by 73,572 votes defeating RJDs Bima Bharti. Digha was the second-biggest victory margin.

It was an election of extremessome seats decided by dozens of votes, others by tens of thousands. For the BJP, 208 votes stood between a strong result and a historic one.

About the Author Nivedita Singh Nivedita Singh is a data journalist and covers the Election Commission, Indian Railways and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. She has nearly seven years of experience in the news media. She twe... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 10:34 IST

News elections How 208 More Votes Could Have Given BJP Its Best-Ever Tally In Bihar

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Ups And Downs Inevitable, Were A Party Of The Poor: RJDs First Reaction After Bihar Poll Debacle

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 14:19 IST

RJD said there is no sorrow in defeat and no arrogance in victory."

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav (PTI File)

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), in its first response to the partys poor performance in the Bihar elections, adopted a tone of resilience and humility.

In a post on X, the party stated that public service is an unceasing process, an endless journey," adding that setbacks and successes are both natural parts of political life. Emphasising that there is no sorrow in defeat and no arrogance in victory," the RJD reaffirmed its commitment to representing the marginalised. It stressed that, as a party of the poor, it will continue to raise their concerns and fight for their rights.

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Public service is an unceasing process, an endless journey. Ups and downs are inevitable in it. No sorrow in defeat, no arrogance in victory. The Rashtriya Janata Dal is the party of the poor. It will continue to raise their voice among the poor," the party said in a post on X.

Rahul Gandhi slams alleged electoral manipulation

The opposition reacted sharply to its heavy defeat in the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025, with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi calling the results truly surprising" and alleging that the election was unfair from the outset. Gandhi accused the ruling NDA of engaging in widespread vote manipulation, asserting that democracy must be protected at all costs. Though he did not present concrete evidence publicly, he maintained that the electoral process had been compromised by Election Commission.

NDA sweeps Bihar polls

In contrast, BJP and JD(U) leaders celebrated the NDAs commanding win, securing 202 of the 243 seats. The BJP emerged as the single largest party with 89 seats, followed by JD(U) with 85 and LJP (Ram Vilas) with 19.

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NDA leaders attributed their success to effective seat-sharing, broad caste outreach, and the enduring appeal of Nitish Kumar, alongside voters fear of a return to Jungle Raj. They dismissed the oppositions accusations as baseless.

With Tejashwi Yadav retaining Raghopur but the RJD and Congress reduced to 25 and 6 seats respectively, the results reaffirmed NDAs political dominance and cleared the way for another term for Nitish Kumar.

About the Author Shuddhanta Patra Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior SubEditor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influen... Read More

Location : Bihar, India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 14:05 IST

News elections Ups And Downs Inevitable, Were A Party Of The Poor: RJDs First Reaction After Bihar Poll Debacle

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BBC Apologised, So Why Is Trump Still Planning To Sue The British Broadcaster?

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 16:31 IST

The BBC has admitted an editing error, but Trump says the clip distorted his January 6 remarks and is moving ahead with a lawsuit worth between $1 billion and $5 billion

Trump has framed the edit as a deliberate attempt to damage his reputation during the 2024 presidential campaign. (IMAGE: AFP)

At a time when the BBC is facing one of the most serious crises in its modern history, US President Donald Trump has escalated the pressure by announcing plans to sue the British broadcaster for up to $5 billion. The threat comes despite a rare apology from the BBC over a misleading edit in a 2024 documentary that spliced together parts of Trumps 6 January 2021 speech, creating the false impression that he had directly urged supporters to fight like hell" and march with him to the US Capitol.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Friday, Trump said he intends to file the lawsuit probably sometime next week," adding that the edit changed the words coming out of my mouth." The remarks, reported by Reuters, mark the latest escalation in a controversy that has already triggered the resignation of the BBCs director general and head of news.

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Here is how the dispute began, what the BBC has said in its defence, and whether Trumps threat carries legal weight.

What Was The Misleading Edit At The Heart Of The Controversy?

The issue surfaced after the Daily Telegraph published portions of an internal BBC memo written by former standards adviser Michael Prescott. The memo criticised the BBCs Panorama programme titled Trump: A Second Chance?, aired just before the 2024 US presidential election. According to Reuters, the documentary stitched together three separate clips of Trumps 6 January 2021 speech into what looked like a single continuous remark.

The edit made it appear as though Trump had urged supporters to march with him and fight like hell" shortly before the Capitol was overrun. His lawyers called the construction false and defamatory," arguing that parts of the speech used in the documentary were nearly an hour apart.

In a later interview with GB News, Trump said the edit was impossible to believe," adding: I made a beautiful statement, and they made it into a not beautiful statement Fake news was a great term, except its not strong enough. This is beyond fake, this is corrupt."

How Did The BBC Respond, And Why Did Its Apology Escalate The Row?

The BBC acknowledged that the edit was an error of judgment." While the broadcaster initially avoided a direct apology, it confirmed that its chair, Samir Shah, sent a personal letter to the White House on Thursday expressing regret for the mistake.

Shah also told a British parliamentary committee that the edit fell short of the BBCs standards.

While the BBC sincerely regrets the manner in which the video clip was edited, we strongly disagree there is a basis for a defamation claim," the British broadcaster said in a statement.

The broadcaster also said it would not rebroadcast the documentary and confirmed that it was investigating further complaints about editing practices on another programme, Newsnight.

British Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy told Times Radio the apology was right and necessary." But the fallout has already been severe: director general Tim Davie and head of news Deborah Turness resigned this week, plunging the BBC into what multiple UK outlets have described as its biggest crisis in decades.

Why Is Trump Threatening To Sue For Up To $5 Billion?

Trump has framed the edit as a deliberate attempt to damage his reputation during the 2024 presidential campaign. He told reporters: I think I have to do that, I mean theyve even admitted that they cheated They changed the words coming out of my mouth."

His lawyers initially gave the BBC a deadline to retract the documentary and apologise, warning in a letter seen by Reuters that the broadcaster could face a lawsuit for no less" than $1 billion for overwhelming reputational and financial harm."

Now, Trump says the figure could go as high as $5 billion, and that he will file the suit probably sometime next week."

He also said British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was very embarrassed" by the situation, claiming Starmer had attempted to reach him. Trump added that he planned to call the UK leader over the weekend.

How Did The Edit Come To Light, And Why Is It Tied To Wider Criticism Of The BBC?

The Telegraph report that exposed the misleading edit also flagged concerns about the BBCs coverage of the IsraelHamas war and its reporting on transgender issues. It pointed to a broader pattern of editorial missteps, fuelling allegations of bias at a time when the broadcaster is already under heavy political and financial scrutiny.

For the BBC, the timing could not be worse: the controversy comes just two years before the government reviews its governing charter, which expires in 2027. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has said the government will ensure the BBC remains sustainably funded" and maintains public trust.

MPs have also raised concerns about whether licence-fee payers money could be used to settle any damages if Trump proceeds with his lawsuit. Former media minister John Whittingdale warned there would be real anger" if public funds were used for this purpose.

Can Trump Actually Win A Lawsuit Against The BBC?

According to AP, Trump may face significant challenges in bringing a successful claim in either the US or the UK. One major hurdle is demonstrating harm: Trump went on to win the 2024 US election, which undermines the case that the edit caused reputational damage.

The BBC has maintained that while it regrets the edit, it strongly disagrees there is a basis for a defamation claim." It has also refused to pay compensation.

Still, Trump appears determined to push forward, saying: Well sue them for anywhere between $1 billion and $5 billion."

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What Happens Next?

Trump says legal action is coming next week," setting the stage for a transnational clash between the White House and the BBC. For the British broadcaster, the crisis has already shaken top leadership, invited political scrutiny, and generated fresh questions over editorial standards.

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. Follo... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 16:27 IST

News explainers BBC Apologised, So Why Is Trump Still Planning To Sue The British Broadcaster?

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17 Children Develop High Fever, Diarrhoea After Routine Injections At Telangana Hospital

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 13:52 IST

Seventeen children fell ill after night-time injections at Nagarjunasagar Government Hospital in Nalgonda, Telangana, prompting an ICU shift and an internal inquiry into the cause.

Seventeen children fell ill after night-time injections at Nagarjunasagar Government Hospital in Nalgonda, Telangana, prompting an ICU shift and an internal inquiry into the cause.

Seventeen children were rushed to the Nagarjunasagar Government Hospital in Telanganas Nalgonda district after they suddenly fell ill on Wednesday night, triggering panic among parents and staff.

According to hospital officials, the children had been given their routine night-time injections. Within just 30 minutes, several of them began showing alarming symptoms, including high fever, vomiting, and diarrhoea. As their condition worsened through the night and continued into Thursday morning, doctors shifted all affected children to the ICU for close monitoring and treatment.

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Hospital authorities have launched an internal inquiry to determine what caused the sudden adverse reaction and whether the injections or any related procedures were responsible. The incident has raised serious concerns about protocol lapses, and officials said further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.

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, ... Read More

Location : Telangana, India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 13:52 IST

News india 17 Children Develop High Fever, Diarrhoea After Routine Injections At Telangana Hospital

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Aadhaar Can Verify Identity, Not Citizenship For Electoral Roll Inclusion: Poll Body To Top Court

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 20:50 IST

In a response to the apex court, the poll body noted that the court had, on September 8, clarified that Aadhaar may be used only to verify identity

Supreme Court Of India (PTI)

The Election Commission of India (ECI) informed the Supreme Court that it has already directed officials in Bihar to use Aadhaar strictly as proof of identity, not citizenship, when updating the states revised electoral roll.

In a response submitted to the apex court, the Commission noted that the court had, on September 8, clarified that Aadhaar may be used only to verify identity under Section 23(4) of the Representation of the People Act (RPA), 1950.

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Section 23 governs the procedures for adding or removing names from electoral rolls.

Following this clarification, the EC said it issued instructions on September 9, 2025, to Bihars Chief Electoral Officer, reiterating that Aadhaar should not be treated as evidence of citizenship during voter roll revisions.

The ECs submission was filed in response to an interlocutory application by advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, who sought a specific direction that Aadhaar be used solely for identity verification in line with Section 23(4).

The Commission further pointed to an August 2023 office memorandum issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), which explicitly states that Aadhaar does not serve as proof of citizenship, residence, or date of birth.

This position has also been acknowledged by the Bombay High Court, which held that Aadhaar cannot be relied upon to establish date of birth and that the responsibility to prove such details lies with the cardholder.

The EC stressed that the Supreme Court has already clarified the limited permissible use of Aadhaar in the context of updating electoral rolls, including for the ongoing revisions in Bihar.

On October 7, the Supreme Court issued notice on Upadhyays application.

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During the hearing, the bench observed that it had previously affirmed that Aadhaar cannot be considered evidence of either citizenship or domicile.

The application forms part of a broader petition calling for regular Special Intensive Revisions of electoral rolls across the country.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 20:50 IST

News india Aadhaar Can Verify Identity, Not Citizenship For Electoral Roll Inclusion: Poll Body To Top Court

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'Can't Practise Medicine': 4 Terror Accused Doctors Involved In Delhi Blast Lose Registrations

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 08:15 IST

The doctors "can no longer practice medicine or hold any medical appointment anywhere in India", the notice states.

Dr Muzammil (left), Adeel Ahmad Rather (middle) and Dr Shaheen Saeed (right)

Days after a massive explosion took place outside Delhis Red Fort, killing 13 people, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has cancelled the registrations of the four doctors involved in the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror module behind the November 10 blast.

Issuing a notice, the commission cancelled the Indian Medical Register (IMR) and the National Medical Register (NMR) of the doctors  Muzaffar Ahmad, Adeel Ahmad Rather, Muzamil Shakeel and Shaheen Saeed  with immediate effect.

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The doctors can no longer practise medicine or hold any medical appointment anywhere in India", the notice states.

According to the NMCs order, the registration of the four doctors were cancelled after several pieces of evidence were shared by the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the J&K and Uttar Pradesh Medical Councils, which found the doctors prima facie involved" in a terror-linked case.

Inconsistent With Medical Ethics

The NMC, further in its notice, said the alleged conduct of the four doctors was inconsistent with the standards of integrity, propriety and public trust expected of the medical profession", NDTV reported.

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The NMCs national order enforces these cancellations across the country, and asked all State Medical Councils to update their records and ensure that none of the four continue practising under any circumstances.

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, ... Read More

Location : Jammu and Kashmir, India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 07:23 IST

News india 'Can't Practise Medicine': 4 Terror Accused Doctors Involved In Delhi Blast Lose Registrations

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'India Possesses Intellectual Depth To Resolve Global Problems': RSS Chief

Last Updated: November 16, 2025, 09:21 IST

Mohan Bhagwat said, "Instead of growing inch by inch, India is now growing mile by mile. India has a reputation worldwide."

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat (Image: PTI/File)

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday said that India has emerged as a nation the world now relies on for answers to pressing global challenges.

Speaking at the Deendayal Smriti Lecture organised by the Ekatma Manavdarshan Anusandhan Evam Vikas Pratishthan in Jaipur, Bhagwat said, The world looks towards India for solutions to global problems."

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Highlighting the countrys rapid rise, Bhagwat said, Instead of growing inch by inch, India is now growing mile by mile. India has a reputation worldwide."

He added that India possesses the intellectual depth to offer answers to the problems faced by world. India has the intellect and the thought to give answers to problems that the world faces," he said.

Reflecting on the history of global conflicts, Bhagwat added that wars stem from nationalism. Wars happen because of nationalism, so global leaders started talking about internationalism. But we saw the ones who talk about internationalism, keep the interest of their nation paramount," he said.

He added that power dynamics continue to shape global instability. The powerful are struggling the most to survive, and as a result, the weaker ones are suffering," he added.

Earlier today, RSS chief visited Jaipur as part of his city tour and paid a visit to the renowned Govind Dev Ji Temple. During his visit, he offered prayers and expressed his devotion before the deity.

On arrival at the temple, Bhagwat was welcomed by local representatives and RSS volunteers. He emphasised that maintaining faith and cultural values at religious sites is crucial for the overall development of society. He also observed the temples arrangements and the rituals performed there.

During the visit, he interacted with devotees and locals while also reviewing the social and cultural activities conducted within the temple premises. He stated that temples are not just religious centres, but also play an essential role in uniting society and promoting cultural awareness.

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Bhagwat also highlighted that the RSS works to bring positive change in society and sensitise the youth towards moral and social values. He stressed that preservation of religious sites and social services should go hand in hand to strengthen communities.

The visit to Jaipur generated significant enthusiasm among locals, with people expressing respect and admiration upon seeing him. RSS officials stated that the tour aimed not only to foster religious engagement but also to promote social and cultural awareness.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 23:34 IST

News india 'India Possesses Intellectual Depth To Resolve Global Problems': RSS Chief

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A leading US banking group has urged regulators to stop Sony Banks crypto venture, warning against its plan for a national trust that would issue a dollar-pegged stablecoin.

Sony stunned markets last month when its banking arm filed to form Connectia Trust, a federally chartered institution that would issue a $1-backed stablecoin, manage the reserves behind it, and provide digital asset custody and management.

If approved, Sony would join a short list of major firms seeking national digital bank status, alongside Coinbase, Circle, Paxos, Stripe and Ripple.

In a Nov. 6 letter to the OCC, the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) said it strongly opposes Sony Banks application and argued the proposal leans on an impermissible reading of trust bank powers.

Group Accuses Sony Of Seeking Bank Benefits Without Obligations

Further, the group warned that customers could confuse a stablecoin with a bank deposit, even though national trust banks are barred by statute from taking deposits.

ICBA said trust charters exist for fiduciary work like estate planning and investment management, not for deposit-style products. It asked the OCC to reject the plan, warning it could mislead customers and create risks in a failure.

The group said Connectia would engage in the business of banking without FDIC insurance or Community Reinvestment Act obligations, a structure it called an end run that captures the benefits of a bank charter without the full rulebook.

ICBA added that Connectia would not have to reinvest in low and moderate-income communities, even as it could gather funds from them.

Critics Say Sonys Application Lacks Key Details On Reserves And Redemption

On payments, ICBA pointed to the deposit-like functionality of stablecoins, which can move electronically, be spent at the point of sale, and be redeemed one-for-one for dollars, features it said mirror checking accounts that trust banks are not allowed to offer.

The filing also raises Bank Holding Company Act issues, ICBA said, because national trust banks can escape holding-company supervision only if they meet strict conditions. The letter questioned whether Connectias non-fiduciary custody plans and potential payment features would satisfy those tests, a failure that could pull Sonys corporate parents into bank holding company regulation.

Transparency became a second front. The public version of Sonys application omits key details, ICBA said, including reserve composition, redemption mechanics in stress, the projected issuance scale, and contingency plans for runs or cyber events.
Red Fort, Nowgam: Explosives Point To Foreign Guidance, Say Intel Sources | Exclusive

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 16:17 IST

Red Fort, Nowgam blasts: Using such chemicals makes it easy for radicalised students and vulnerable groups, as it enables them to keep operating under the radar, sources said

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The Red Fort blast in the capital shocked many. (PTI File)

The choice of explosives in both the incidents  car explosion at Delhis Red Fort and the Jammu and Kashmir police station blast  hint towards foreign guidance, top intelligence sources told News18.

An accidental blast at a police station in Nowgam on the outskirts of Jammu and Kashmirs Srinagar killed at least nine people and injured 32 others on Friday night. The blast occurred when the police and forensic team officials were extracting samples from a large cache of explosives seized in connection with the white-collar terror module case from Haryanas Faridabad recently.

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On Monday evening, a high-intensity blast from a slow-moving car ripped through the Red Fort metro station area, killing at least 12 and leaving many injured.

In the Red Fort case, the explosives were picked by suspect Umer from the Al Falah University with a lot of care. Forensic experts found that Triacetone triperoxide (TATP) was mixed with ammonium nitrate. This comes from direct guidance from the Pakistan-Afghanistan terror networks," said sources.

Multiple ISIS-linked groups have also used same mixture in the past.

Sources say the recoveries and quantities and unstable nature of the materials indicate the accused were almost ready for a major blast.

The Kashmir police station blast only shows how volatile and dangerous their explosive stock was. TATP was used in Paris, Brussels, Manchester and considered to be powerful, unstable. Foreign handlers prefer these explosives because they bypass military supply chains. They feel small radicals can deliver better than trained terrorists," sources said.

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Using such chemicals makes it easy for radicalised students and vulnerable groups, as it enables them to keep operating under the radar, sources said.

TATP and ammonium nitrate type devices require very basic understanding of chemistry. This kind of mix allows inexperienced individuals to assemble crude IEDs under online or handler guidance. These days, conventional explosives like RDX, PETN or TNT are tracked at all places and police watch their sales but ammonium nitrate is easy to get," they said.

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

First Published: November 15, 2025, 16:11 IST

News india Red Fort, Nowgam: Explosives Point To Foreign Guidance, Say Intel Sources | Exclusive

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Dr Shaheen Saeed, Arrested In Faridabad Terror Module Case, Planned To Flee To Dubai: Report

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 11:43 IST

Dr Shaheen Saeed, a key accused in the Delhi terror conspiracy, had applied for a passport and was allegedly planning to flee to Dubai even as agencies tracked the module.

Dr Shaheen Saeed has been arrested in connection with the recovery of explosives and arms in Faridabad. (Image: News18)

A key accused in the Delhi terror conspiracy, Dr Shaheen Saeed of Al-Falah University, had applied for a passport and was allegedly planning to escape to Dubai even as the module was being tracked across multiple states, according to a Times of India report.

The report further claimed that investigators believe Shaheen was preparing her getaway while her associates worked on finalising their plans.

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However, the plot began to fall apart following arrests in Jammu and Kashmir, Saharanpur and Faridabad.

As per the report, Shaheen had submitted a passport application, and on November 3, a Faridabad police officer visited her on the university campus to take her photograph, at a time when agencies were actively trying to locate her.

She was eventually arrested in Lucknow on November 11.

The report quoted a Faridabad police officer as saying, J&K Police initially did not share details and told us that they were here to nab a male doctor of the Al-Falah University for his involvement in pasting some objectionable posters in their state. We got to know about the case a few days later."

Dr Shaheen Saeed had earlier been arrested in connection with the alleged terror module suspected of carrying out the blast near the Red Fort that killed 13 people and injured several others.

Multiple arms and explosives were also found to be connected to her.

The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) also detained another doctor, Arif, from Kanpur, over an alleged link to Shaheen.

So far, agencies have identified at least four doctors who were allegedly planning a series of blasts across the country as part of a wider module.

Three doctors, including Shaheen, are among the eight people believed to be responsible for the Red Fort blast. One of them, Dr Umar Nabi, identified as the driver of the Hyundai i20 that exploded, died in the blast.

Officials have stated that all those arrested were part of a newly exposed transnational terror module" involving doctors, clerics, and businessmen.

According to the preliminary investigation, the explosion near the Red Fort was likely part of a broader conspiracy to carry out attacks at multiple locations.

Following the blast, authorities seized several vehicles, including an Ecosport and a Brezza, and continued searching for others potentially involved.

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Large quantities of arms and explosive materials have been recovered from locations linked to the accused, including thousands of kilograms of explosive substances and 20 quintals of NPK fertiliser suspected to have been stored for bomb-making.

ALSO READ | Red Fort Bomber Was Popular Teacher But Had Bad Temper, Radicalised Students At Al Falah

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 11:41 IST

News india Dr Shaheen Saeed, Arrested In Faridabad Terror Module Case, Planned To Flee To Dubai: Report

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'Glorious State': PM Modi Extends Wishes On Jharkhand Foundation Day, Hails Tribal Heritage

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 08:14 IST

PM Narendra Modi greeted Jharkhand on its Foundation Day, honoring its tribal heritage and Birsa Munda, and wished for the state's continued progress and prosperity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (IMAGE: NEWS18 FILE)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended warm greetings to the people of Jharkhand on the occasion of the states Foundation Day, celebrating its rich tribal legacy and history of resilience.

In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi described Jharkhand as a glorious state enriched with tribal culture" and paid tribute to Birsa Munda, whose contributions to Indias tribal identity and freedom struggle continue to inspire generations.

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                -           ,                          Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 15, 2025

Heartfelt greetings to all the residents of the glorious state of Jharkhand, enriched with tribal culture, on the occasion of the states foundation day. The history of this land of Lord Birsa Munda is filled with tales of courage, struggle, and self-respect," the PM tweeted.

Extending his wishes for the states progress, he added that he, along with his family members in the state," prayed for Jharkhands continued development and prosperity.

Today, on this special occasion, I extend my wishes for the progress and prosperity of the state along with all my family members in the state," PM Modi stated.

President Murmu Extends Greetings

President Droupadi Murmu also conveyed heartfelt greetings on the Silver Jubilee of the states formation, celebrating 25 years of its rich cultural heritage, natural wealth, and significant role in Indias development.

In a tweet, President Murmu lauded the people of Jharkhand as talented and hardworking," and highlighted the enduring legacy of the tribal icon.

Heartfelt congratulations to all on the Silver Jubilee of the establishment of Jharkhand State! The talented and hardworking people of this land of Lord Birsa Munda have enhanced the pride of the state and the entire country," the President wrote.

She noted that Jharkhand, blessed with abundant natural resources, has consistently made important contributions to the nations growth. President Murmu also praised the global recognition enjoyed by the states diverse tribal folk arts, calling them a vibrant symbol of Indias cultural richness.

The brave warriors of this land have presented unparalleled examples of service to Mother India, she added.

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Extending her best wishes to the people, President Murmu expressed hope that Jharkhand would continue to progress steadily and that the future of all its residents remains bright and promising.

Jharkhand, carved out of Bihar in 2000, marks its Foundation Day on November 15, which also coincides with the birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda.

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 Manish... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 08:14 IST

News india 'Glorious State': PM Modi Extends Wishes On Jharkhand Foundation Day, Hails Tribal Heritage

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Hanged At Dawn, Cremated In Secret: Inside Nathuram Godse's Execution

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 17:57 IST

Nathuram Godse and Narayan Apte were hanged before sunrise on November 15 at Ambala Central Jail. Godse appeared inconsolable, while Apte remained composed

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Nathuram Godse admitted his crime in court. (News18 Hindi)

On the morning of November 15, 1949, an unusual atmosphere enveloped Ambala Jail. Nathuram Godse and Narayan Apte, convicted for Mahatma Gandhis assassination, were executed early that day. Following the hanging, officials discreetly performed their last rites inside the jail. Despite repeated pleas from their families, the bodies were not released. The ashes were then covertly immersed in the Ghaggar river.

Godse believed Gandhis non-violent policies and efforts to promote Hindu-Muslim unity were detrimental to the nation, especially during Partition, feeling Gandhi was jeopardising Hindu interests. Historian Hama Gebe noted that Godse saw Gandhis policy of religious equality as a betrayal. Godse was a staunch critic of Gandhis defence of Muslim rights and his efforts for bilateral relations. Over time, more individuals have come to sympathise with Godses views. Some groups now portray Godse as a role model and call him a nationalist.

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Gandhis Assassination And Godses Trial

On January 30, 1948, Gandhis assassination marked a controversial and tragic chapter in Indian history. Godse shot Gandhi three times during a prayer meeting, without harming anyone else. The trial against Godse began soon after, on January 22, 1948, at Delhis Red Fort.

Death Sentence Awarded

The government prosecutor successfully argued that Gandhis murder was a premeditated conspiracy. On October 10, 1949, Judge Atma Charan sentenced Godse and Apte to death, while others involved were also found guilty. During the appeal, Godse delivered an extensive speech criticising Gandhis policies and contended they led to Indias partition.

Godse And Aptes Final Moments

Nathuram Godse and Narayan Apte were hanged at Ambala Central Jail before sunrise on November 15. Eyewitnesses recall that when Godses name was called, he appeared somewhat inconsolable and spoke weakly, while Apte seemed far more composed. As they walked toward the gallows, Godse shouted Akhand Bharat, to which Apte responded with a stronger and more resonant Amar Rahe. According to Robert Paines The Life and Death of Mahatma Gandhi, Apte had conducted himself as a model prisoner and even authored a book on Indian thought. Despite the chants, both men remained remarkably composed in their final moments.

Execution And Secret Funeral

Both were hanged simultaneously; Apte died instantly, but it took Godse a few moments. A member of the verification team described the scene as distressing and said it haunted him for days.

Under special instructions from Delhi, the district magistrates staff performed the last rites within hours. They collected the ashes, placed them in an armoured vehicle, and transported them to the Ghaggar river for immersion, accompanied by police for security. The immersion was carried out with utmost secrecy, ensuring no witnesses. The vehicle first drove to the river, moved ahead to mislead any observers, then returned to immerse the ashes in a fast-flowing, unidentified part of the river, making retrieval impossible. Even for the team members, returning to the spot would be challenging. This secrecy highlighted the intent to keep everything confidential.

Role Of The District Magistrates Staff Post-Execution

At that time, when someone was hanged, the district magistrate and staff had to be present to officially confirm the death. If the body was not handed over to the family or went unclaimed, the staff was responsible for the last rites. In the case of Godse and Apte, the staff managed the cremation and immersion of ashes. They also recorded the final wishes of those sentenced to death.

Bodies Not Released To Families By Government

The Indian government decided not to release the bodies to the families to prevent Godse and Apte from being glorified or turned into political symbols. The country was still dealing with the aftermath of Partition, and the government wanted to avoid their bodies being used by radical or nationalist groups, which could cause social or political instability. Hence, the funeral was kept secret and strictly controlled by jail officials, excluding family members and adhering to government orders.

Gandhi Murder Case Verdict Date

On February 10, 1949, the special court delivered its verdict in Gandhis assassination case. Of the nine accused, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was acquitted, while the other eight were convicted for murder, conspiracy, and violence. Godse and Apte were sentenced to death, and six others, including Godses brother Gopal Godse, received life imprisonment.

Gopal Godse Wrote A Book Post-Sentence

Gopal Godse, Viyabio Karkare, Madnisi Puhi, Shankar Kistaya, and Dattatreya Parchure were sentenced to life imprisonment. After serving their sentences, they were released. Nathuram Godse admitted his crime in court but argued his actions were motivated by Gandhis policies, which he believed weakened India. Gopal Godse completed his sentence in 1966 and published a book detailing the events and reasons behind Gandhis assassination.

Was Narayan Apte A British Intelligence Agent?

In 1966, when the government reopened the Gandhi murder case, a commission led by Justice J.L. Kapur was formed. The Kapur Commission expressed doubts about Narayan Aptes identity, describing him as a former Indian Air Force employee. Based on this, the Abhinav Bharat Mumbai organisation asked Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar for information. Parrikar replied that records showed Apte was never in the Air Force. Later, Dr Pankaj Phadnis of Abhinav Bharat claimed Apte was a member of British intelligence agency Force 136 and that Apte fired the fourth shot at Gandhi, not Godse.

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Apte Hailed From A Family Of Sanskrit Scholars

According to Wikipedia, Narayan Apte had a charming personality, graduated in science from Bombay University, and worked in teaching and other jobs. He belonged to a respected Brahmin family in Pune known for Sanskrit scholarship. In 1939, while working as a teacher in Ahmednagar, Apte joined the Hindu Mahasabha. Due to family responsibilities, he returned to his ancestral home in Pune to care for his joint family. His wife was also from an influential family, and their married life was reported to be happy. They had a son who often suffered from health issues.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 17:57 IST

News india Hanged At Dawn, Cremated In Secret: Inside Nathuram Godse's Execution

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Indian Air Forces Suryakirans Cut Through Dubai Skyline In Stunning Formation Flight | Watch

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Last Updated: November 16, 2025, 03:00 IST

Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team and Tejas fighter aircraft of Indian Air Force arrive at Dubai Airshow, showcasing precision and excellence over Dubais skyline from November 17 to 21.

IAFs Surya Kiran team shared cockpit footage from Dubai as it gears up for the November 1721 airshow. (IMAGE: X)

The Indian Air Forces Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team on Saturday shared a striking video from Dubai, showing its aircraft sweeping over the emirates skyline as the team prepares for its participation in the Dubai Airshow. The flypast, recorded from the cockpit, captured formations over the citys landmarks and was posted on social media with a message celebrating the spirit, precision and excellence of the Indian Air Force.

Soaring over the stunning Dubai skyline, the Suryakirans proudly showcase the spirit, precision and excellence of the Indian Air Force," the team wrote on X, adding that it was an incredible experience" to fly over the iconic landscape as preparations continue for the airshow scheduled between November 17 and 21.

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The IAFs Media Coordination Centre later confirmed that a full Indian Air Force contingent, comprising the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team and Tejas fighter aircraft, has arrived at Dubais Al Maktoum Airbase for the global aviation event. The Dubai Airshow will see participation from more than 100 air forces and is aimed at enhancing interoperability, improving operational coordination and expanding both military and aerospace industry partnerships.

Soaring over the stunning Dubai skyline, the Suryakirans proudly showcase the spirit, precision and excellence of the Indian Air Force. Its an incredible experience to be flying over this iconic landscape as we gear up for the Dubai Airshow from 17th to 21st November. See ya! pic.twitter.com/ZOq4DsJ3Eh Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (@Suryakiran_IAF) November 15, 2025

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Formed in 1996, the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team is one of the very few nine-aircraft display teams in the world and the only one in Asia. Flying the Hawk Mk 132 aircraft, SKAT has performed more than 500 displays in India and has showcased IAFs professionalism at international airshows in China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore and the UAE. Their routines involve close formation flying, loops, barrel rolls, crossovers and high-precision manoeuvres that demand intense coordination and meticulous planning.

The team operates with the motto Sadaiva Sarvottam", meaning Always the Best", which reflects its emphasis on discipline, teamwork and excellence in aerial display. The Tejas fighters accompanying the contingent are expected to take part in aerial and static displays.

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has ... Read More

Location : Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)

First Published: November 16, 2025, 03:00 IST

News india Indian Air Forces Suryakirans Cut Through Dubai Skyline In Stunning Formation Flight | Watch

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Indonesia Made Bid To Buy BrahMos Supersonic Missile: Rajnath Singh

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 23:58 IST

Earlier this year, it was reported that New Delhi and Jakarta were working to conclude a $450 million worth BrahMos missile deal.

The manufacturer of the BrahMos supersonic missile system has produced the first batch of missiles at its new integration and test facility in Lucknow. (PTI)

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that Indonesia has expressed interest in purchasing the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile.

While addressing BJP workers in Lucknow, Singh said that Jakarta has made a bid to purchase the supersonic missile being manufactured in Lucknow.

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Indonesia has requested to purchase the BrahMos missile being manufactured in Lucknow," Singh said as quoted by news agency PTI.

His remark came nearly a month after Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath flagged off the first batch of BrahMos missiles produced at the newly operational BrahMos Aerospace integration and testing facility in Lucknow on October 18.

The state-of-the-art facility, built at a cost of Rs 300 crore and inaugurated on May 11, has now become fully functional.

Located in Bhatgaon, Sarojini Nagar, the unit is among the most significant projects of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Corridor. According to officials, assembly, integration, and testing of the missiles are being carried out using high-tech standards. The Uttar Pradesh government allotted 80 hectares of land for the project free of charge.

Earlier this year, it was reported that New Delhi and Jakarta were working to conclude a $450 million worth BrahMos missile deal ahead of President Prabowo Subiantos visit to New Delhi.

If finalised, Indonesia would become the second ASEAN nation after the Philippines to acquire BrahMos missile. The defence weapon, known for its speed and precision, would significantly enhance Indonesias coastal and maritime defense capabilities.

New Delhi and Jakarta have been stepping up cooperation in the defence sector, since the signing of the comprehensive strategic partnership in 2018. The two nations have engaged in bilateral naval exercises Samudra Shakti since that year.

All About BrahMos

The BrahMos missile is a versatile and formidable weapon, capable of being launched from land, air and sea, enabling strikes from multiple fronts. Jointly developed by India and Russia, it is renowned for its supersonic speed, pinpoint accuracy, and adaptability across a range of military operations.

During Operation Sindoor, the IAF relied on BrahMos missiles to launch a precision strike campaign targeting key Pakistani military installations, including airbases and cantonments. The operation, which was executed with high accuracy and minimal collateral damage, has been hailed within defence circles as a major demonstration of Indias growing long-range strike capability.

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India launched precision strikes" under Operation Sindoor on nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. The strikes killed over 100 terrorists, including 10 family members of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar and four close aides.

(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) degre... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 23:58 IST

News india Indonesia Made Bid To Buy BrahMos Supersonic Missile: Rajnath Singh

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'Accidental Explosion': J&K Top Cop Rules Out Terror Angle In Nowgam Police Station Blast

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 11:01 IST

The J&K DGP confirmed that the Nowgam Police Station blast was an accidental explosion that occurred during the sampling of explosives recovered in a terror probe.

Srinagar: SDRF personnel arrive to clear the debris after an accidental explosion ripped through Nowgam police station (Photo: PTI)

Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat on Saturday confirmed that the powerful explosion that tore through the Nowgam Police Station in Srinagar late Friday night was an accidental blast.

He also said that the explosion occurred during the handling of volatile materials linked to an ongoing terror investigation.

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Nine people were killed and 32 were injured in the tragedy, the DGP said.

Addressing reporters, DGP Prabhat said, During the investigation in FIR 162 of 2025 of Police Station Nowgam, a huge quantity of explosive substances, chemicals and reagents were recovered from Faridabad on November 9 and 10, 2025."

This recovery, like the rest of the recoveries which we have done, was transported and kept securely in the open area of the Police Station Nowgam," he said.

The DGP further explained that the seized material had to undergo mandatory forensic checks.

As part of the prescribed procedure, the samples of the recovery had to be forwarded for further forensic and chemical examination. On account of the voluminous nature of the recovery, this process was going on for the past two days, which means yesterday and the day before, by the Forensic Science Laboratory team," he noted.

Despite the FSL teams caution, the DGP said the inherently unstable material triggered a catastrophic accident.

Due to the unstable and sensitive nature of the recovery, the sampling process and handling was being done with utmost caution by the FSL team. However, unfortunately, during this course, last night, around 11.20 pm, an accidental explosion took place," the DGP said.

Any other speculation into the cause of this incident is unnecessary," he added.

Giving an account of the death toll, the DGP said, A personnel of the State Investigation Agency (SIA), three personnel of the FSL team, two crime scene photographers, two revenue officials who were part of the magistrates team, a tailor who was associated with the team, died."

In addition, 27 police personnel, two revenue officials and three civilians from the adjacent areas have received injuries, who were immediately evacuated to the nearest hospital."

The blast caused extensive destruction, the DGP said.

The building of the Police Station has been very severely damaged, and even the adjacent buildings have been affected. The extent of this damage is being ascertained," Prabhat said, adding that a formal inquiry has been initiated.

Expressing condolences, he said, The Jammu and Kashmir Police stands in solidarity with the families of the deceased in this hour of grief."

The blast occurred near the premises of the Nowgam Police Station in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday night, it was known.

Security personnel were present at the scene, and sniffer dogs had been deployed to assist with the investigation.

The Deputy Commissioner of Srinagar, Akshay Labroo, visited the hospital to meet the victims injured in the blast.

On November 9, a person named Madrasi, a resident of Dhauj, Faridabad, was arrested from his house. The next day, a massive consignment of explosives, weighing 2,563 kilograms, was recovered from the house of Hafeez Mohammad Ishtiaq, a resident of Mewat and an Imam at Al Falah Mosque in Faridabads Dhera Colony.

In subsequent raids, 358 kilograms of additional explosive material, detonators, and timers were seized, according to reports.

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Nearly 3,000 kilograms of explosives and bomb-making equipment stored by this module were also seized.

ALSO READ | Red Fort Blast Probe: Another Doctor Who Worked At Al-Falah University Detained

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 10:18 IST

News india 'Accidental Explosion': J&K Top Cop Rules Out Terror Angle In Nowgam Police Station Blast

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 18:51 IST

An explosion at a police station in Nowgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on Friday night claimed at least nine lives and left 29 others injured. Police officials fear the toll may rise, with at least six of the injured reported to be in critical condition.

The explosion took place while a police team, accompanied by a magistrate and forensic experts, was examining explosive materials linked to the Red Fort blast investigation. These explosives had been recovered as part of the probe into the Faridabad terror module in connection with the Delhi attack.

According to officials, the blast was sudden and extremely powerful, causing extensive damage within the police station premises. Initial reports suggest that the explosives may have detonated accidentally during the handling or sampling process, though the exact cause is yet to be confirmed.

The injured were quickly transported to the Indian Armys 92 Base Hospital as well as the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) for urgent treatment. Medical teams are on high alert as several victims battle life-threatening injuries.

Senior police officers, including top officials from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, rushed to the site soon after the incident. The entire area has been sealed off as investigations continue, and forensic teams are working to determine what triggered the explosion.
Kerala High Court Refuses To Stall SIR Electoral Roll Revision Despite State Govt's Local Polls Plea

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Last Updated: November 16, 2025, 01:33 IST

The High Court noted that maintaining an updated electoral roll is a continuous, necessary process and that the poll body's schedule must be respected

The state had requested the court to postpone the revision, being conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI), until the completion of the upcoming local body polls in Kerala. File pic

The Kerala High Court on Friday dismissed a petition filed by the state government seeking to defer the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls. The state had requested the court to postpone the revision, being conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI), until the completion of the upcoming local body polls in Kerala.

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The division bench, after hearing arguments from both the state government and the ECI, refused to entertain the plea, thereby clearing the way for the poll body to continue its schedule for updating the electoral lists.

The state governments primary contention was that simultaneously conducting the intensive electoral roll revision alongside preparations for the local body elections was placing an unmanageable administrative burden on local government staff and civil machinery. The argument centred on the fact that the same officials responsible for preparing and verifying the draft rolls for the SIR are also heavily engaged in pre-poll work for the local body elections, leading to a potential conflict of duties and an overstretched workforce. The state argued this overlap could compromise the quality and efficiency of both democratic exercises.

The Election Commission of India strongly opposed the states petition, arguing that the conduct of the Special Intensive Revision is a statutory and constitutional mandate and cannot be arbitrarily postponed based on the scheduling of local body elections, which fall under the purview of the State Election Commission.

The ECI emphasised that the revision process, which includes adding new voters, correcting existing entries, and removing deceased or duplicate names, is essential to ensure the electoral roll is accurate, updated, and ready well in advance of the next major assembly or general elections. Any delay could have serious implications for the integrity and timeliness of future polls.

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The High Court accepted the ECIs stance, noting that maintaining an updated electoral roll is a continuous, necessary process and that the poll bodys schedule must be respected. The courts decision underscores the primacy of the ECIs authority over the preparation of assembly and parliamentary electoral rolls and ensures that the revision programme will proceed as planned, with the draft roll expected to be published shortly. The state government is now mandated to manage the parallel administrative demands without altering the ECIs established timeline.

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, ... Read More

First Published: November 16, 2025, 01:33 IST

News india Kerala High Court Refuses To Stall SIR Electoral Roll Revision Despite State Govt's Local Polls Plea

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Lesson For INDIA Bloc, But ECs Misdeeds: Stalin After NDAs Landslide Bihar Win

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 09:09 IST

While extending congratulations to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on the victory, Stalin did not hold back in criticising what he called the ECIs declining credibility.

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president MK Stalin reacted strongly to the National Democratic Alliances sweeping victory in the 2025 Bihar Assembly Elections, terming the result both a lesson" for the INDIA alliance and a reminder of what he described as the misdeeds" of the Election Commission of India (ECI).

While extending congratulations to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Stalin did not hold back in criticising what he called the ECIs declining credibility. Notably, DMK is part of the opposition INDIA bloc.

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What Stalin said?

In a detailed post on X, Stalin congratulated JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar for the NDAs decisive win, saying the veteran leader had earned the trust of the people of Bihar. He also appreciated RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav for leading a spirited and energetic campaign despite the opposition alliances poor overall performance.

However, Stalins message soon shifted to a sharp rebuke of the Election Commission. Branding the ECI as partial in his remarks, he stated that the election results do not whitewash the misdeeds and reckless actions" of the Commission.

The reputation of the ECI is at its lowest point," he wrote, adding that the electorate deserved a stronger and more impartial institution whose conduct should inspire confidence even among losing candidates.

He emphasised that election outcomes are shaped by welfare delivery, ideological clarity, and consistent campaign management, all lessons that the INDIA bloc must absorb as it prepares for future political battles.

Bihar verdict

The Bihar Assembly Election 2025 produced a resounding mandate for the NDA, which secured 202 of the 243 seats. The Bharatiya Janata Party emerged as the single-largest party with 89 seats, while its ally, the Janata Dal (United), led by Nitish Kumar, won 85 seats. The Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) added further weight to the alliance with 19 seats.

In sharp contrast, the opposition Mahagathbandhan struggled to make an impact. The Rashtriya Janata Dal secured only 25 seats, a steep fall from its earlier performance, while the Congress managed just six. AIMIM picked up five seats.

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Tejashwi Yadav did retain his Raghopur constituency, but the broader electoral mood clearly favoured the NDA, paving the way for Nitish Kumar to return as Chief Minister for yet another record-breaking term.

The results came as a blow to the opposition alliance, underscoring the challenges ahead. Stalins remarks reflect a wider churn within the INDIA bloc as leaders reassess strategy, messaging and organisational strength following the NDAs emphatic victory.

About the Author Shuddhanta Patra Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior SubEditor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influen... Read More

Location : Tamil Nadu, India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 09:09 IST

News india Lesson For INDIA Bloc, But ECs Misdeeds: Stalin After NDAs Landslide Bihar Win

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Keily Blair, the CEO of OnlyFans since July 2023, says that if there is one thing she cannot abide, its that squidgy layer of middle management that large companies frequently develop. She actively refuses to hire middle managers, she said on stage at the MEO arena at Web Summit in Lisbon on Thursday.

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Hiring at OnlyFans has an outsized effect on the companys operating expense leverage, Blair said, because it generates $7 billion in gross revenue from its 400 million users annually and $1.41 billion in net revenue. That works out at around $37 million per staff head, Blair said, citing the companys internal metrics. Adding even a single staffer dramatically drives down that average.

So Blair hires only very senior people or very junior staff.

Every hire is very important

Every hire is very important. Youve got to make sure you keep the revenue back up to make sure it matches that. For us, its a structural decision about how we run the business. So we hire incredibly senior talent, and then we hire incredibly hungry junior talent, and we look for attitude and aptitude in hiring rather than experience, Blair told Masters of Scale host Jeff Berman.

And so, for us, we were like, actually, lets get rid of that [middle management] model. Lets keep things very lean. Lets scale up teams when we need to for projects.

Getting a job at OnlyFans is difficult, to say the least. Blair doesnt hire people who just want a job or think OnlyFans is going to be fun.

Its incredibly important for me to understand that the person who Im looking at hiringbecause we only have 42 full-time employeesreally believes the mission, can articulate the mission back to me, understand why they want to work here, not just because its cool, and we have awesome merch, but because they believe in what were doing, and they understand the story.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Pak Pilgrims Jatha Got Govt Clearance: SGPC Says Sikh Womans Conversion, Marriage Condemnable

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 13:05 IST

SGPC's First Reaction: We regret this incident doing something like this on religious pilgrimage is condemnable. We learnt about the incident through the media only.

Sarabjeet Kaur; SGPC's General Secretary Gurcharan Singh Grewal (right).

In its first reaction on the Sikh woman, who went missing from the Indian pilgrims jatha from Pakistan on November 13, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) said such an action during a pilgrimage is condemnable".

Sarbjeet (Sarabjit) Kaurs disappearance had triggered major concern, as she was part of a 1,923-member Sikh delegation that travelled to Pakistan on November 4 to mark Guru Nanak Dev Jis Parkash Purab. A purported Nikahnama and what appears to be a copy of her passport have surfaced.

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The SGPC organises the jatha to Pakistan. When we get permission, we give an advertisement in newspapers. Their passports are submitted to the government. After Indian intelligence verification, the documents are given to Pakistan for visa. We never endorse anyones visa, we only send visas we receive after advertisement in newspaper," said SGPCs General Secretary Gurcharan Singh Grewal.

We regret this incident doing something like this on a religious pilgrimage is condemnable. We learnt about the incident through the media only," said Grewal.

The SGPC organises the jatha to Pakistan. When we get permission, we give an advertisement in newspapers. Their passports are submitted to the government. After Indian intelligence verification, the documents are given to Pakistan for visa. We never endorse anyones visa, we only send visas we receive after advertisement in newspaper," said Grewal.

The SGPC, or Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, is a religious organization responsible for the management and administration of gurdwaras (Sikh temples) in Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Chandigarh, as well as several other states in India.

#BreakingNews | Indian sikh woman goes missing in Pakistan, converts to Islam & marries local manSGPC responds after the incident, Jatha sent only after govt clearance"@siddhantvm & @Zakka_Jacob with more details. #exclusive input by @manojkumargupta pic.twitter.com/MjOMOWWiuq  News18 (@CNNnews18) November 15, 2025

The group, led by Akal Takht Sahibs Jathedar, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, spent 10 days visiting various gurdwaras before returning to India, without Sarabjit. Sarabjits name was missing from both Pakistans exit records and Indias re-entry logs. The episode has raised questions about how such an incident could occur despite the presence of the Akal Takht Jathedar, whose role is meant to provide spiritual guidance and oversight during the pilgrimage.

SGPC has no role in endorsing any visa Such incidents raise questions for us," said Grewal.

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The Pakistan High Commission had said it had issued over 2,100 visas to Sikh pilgrims from India ahead of the birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak. However, at the border crossing at Wagah, a group of Hindus, who had crossed into Pakistan alongside a larger Sikh delegation, was barred from proceeding further, despite having completed all formalities. You see some Hindus and Sikh devotees were stopped, so it is completely the governments prerogative," said Grewal.

Following her disappearance, intelligence agencies in India and Pakistan had launched efforts to trace her location, with officials confirming that the Indian mission in Pakistan is in contact with local authorities to verify the authenticity of the documents and determine her status.

About the Author Siddhant Mishra Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively ... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 12:58 IST

News india Pak Pilgrims Jatha Got Govt Clearance: SGPC Says Sikh Womans Conversion, Marriage Condemnable

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Operation Sindoor Brought Nothing But Loss Of Lives: Farooq Abdullah's Shocker

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 18:30 IST

I hope both nations improve their relations. That is the only way, Farooq Abdullah said.

Former J&K CM Farooq Abdullah | File Image/PTI

National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah on Saturday claimed that Operation Sindoor, Indias precision strikes at terror camps in Pakistan in response to the dastardly Pahalgam terror attack, did not yield any positive outcome and only resulted in loss of lives.

I hope no such thing (Operation Sindoor) will happen. Nothing came out of it. Our 18 people died. Our borders were compromised," he said as quoted by news agency ANI. He added that repeating such operations would only harm both nations and the fragile peace along the Line of Control.

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#WATCH | Srinagar | JKNC Chief Farooq Abdullah says, I hope no such thing (Operation Sindoor) will happen. Nothing came out of it (Operation Sindoor). Our 18 people died. Our borders were compromised. I hope both nations improve their relations. That is the only way. I want to pic.twitter.com/14akB04Op1 ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2025

I hope both nations improve their relations. That is the only way," he said, warning that hostility and military posturing cannot serve long-term national interests.

Invoking former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayees famous line on India-Pakistan ties, Abdullah said, I want to repeat what Vajpayee Ji said  friends can be changed, but neighbours cannot." He urged New Delhi and Islamabad to resume dialogue and work towards lasting peace.

His comments came after an explosion at a police station in Jammu and Kashmirs Nowgam claimed at least nine lives and left 29 others injured. The explosion took place while a police team, accompanied by a magistrate and forensic experts, was examining explosive materials linked to the Red Fort blast investigation. These explosives had been recovered as part of the probe into the Faridabad terror module in connection with the Delhi attack.

The former Chief Minister called for a thorough and independent investigation into the Nowgam police station blast, saying that mistakes" in the initial handling of the explosive may have contributed to the tragedy that claimed nine lives and damaged multiple residential structures.

Abdullahs remarks came after the Centre recognised the blast near Delhis Red Fort on November 10 as a terror attack" and warned of strict action against the perpetrators of the barbaric crime.

The Cabinet unequivocally condemns this dastardly and cowardly act that has led to the loss of innocent lives. The Cabinet reiterates Indias unwavering commitment to a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism in all its forms and manifestations," a resolution passed by the cabinet read.

A high-intensity explosive device detonated inside a slow-moving car at a traffic signal near the Red Fort metro station on Monday evening, killing 12 people and injuring dozens of others. Several suspects, including doctors from Haryanas Al-Falah University, have been taken into custody for interrogation over their alleged links to a white-collar terror module involving the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind.

Operation Sindoor

India launched precision strikes" under Operation Sindoor on nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. The strikes killed over 100 terrorists, including 10 family members of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar and four close aides.

Targets included Jaishs Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur, Sarjal camp in Tehra Kalan, Markaz Abbas in Kotli, and the Syedna Bilal camp in Muzaffarabad. Lashkars strongholds  Markaz Taiba in Murdike, Markaz Ahle Hadith in Barnala, and Shwawai Nalla camp in Muzaffarabad  were also hit. Hizbul Mujahideens facilities at Makaz Raheel Shahid in Kotli and Mehmoona Joya in Sialkot were among those targeted.

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The operation sparked four days of cross-border fighting involving fighter jets, missiles and artillery.

(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) degre... Read More

Location : Srinagar, India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 18:30 IST

News india Operation Sindoor Brought Nothing But Loss Of Lives: Farooq Abdullah's Shocker

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PM Modi Performs Puja At Devmogra Temple In Gujarat On Janjatiya Gaurav Divas | Watch

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 14:54 IST

PM Modi on Saturday offered prayers to Pandori Mata, a deity of the tribal community, at a temple in Devmogra village of Gujarat's Narmada district.

PM Modi performs puja at Devmogra Temple in Narmada district. (Image: ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday offered prayers to Pandori Mata, a deity of the tribal community, at a temple in Devmogra village of Gujarats tribal-dominated Narmada district.

PM Modi, who is on a day-long visit to the state, landed at the Surat airport in the morning. After reviewing the progress of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor in Surat, he reached Devmogra village in Sagbara taluka, nearly 23 km from Dediapada town in Narmada district.

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VIDEO | Gujarat: PM Modi (@narendramodi) performs puja at Devmogra Temple in Narmada district.(Source: Third Party) (Full video available on PTI Videos  https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/HfPmcSHxi2  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 15, 2025

As per the schedule, the Prime Minister will later visit Dediapada to address a gathering to mark the birth anniversary of tribal icon Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

On the occasion, he will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of various infrastructure and development projects costing more than Rs 9,700 crore, and also address a gathering.

   !           150 -                                       pic.twitter.com/T9y18Xp7cL  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 15, 2025

PM Modi is alaso set to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects aimed at uplifting tribal communities and improving infrastructure in rural and remote areas of the region.

He will participate in the Grih Pravesh ceremony for the beneficiaries of 1,00,000 houses built under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) and Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DA-JAGUA).

The PM will inaugurate 42 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) dedicated to tribal students worth around Rs 1,900 crore; 228 Multi-Purpose Centres to act as a hub for community-led activities; Centre of Competence in Assam Medical College, Dibrugarh, and Tribal Research Institute (TRI) building Imphal, Manipur for the preservation of tribal culture and heritage.

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In addition, the PM will flag off 250 buses for 14 tribal districts of Gujarat to improve connectivity in tribal regions.

(With PTI inputs)

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More

Location : Gujarat, India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 14:14 IST

News india PM Modi Performs Puja At Devmogra Temple In Gujarat On Janjatiya Gaurav Divas | Watch

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The Sarbjeet Kaur Case: How Indian Pilgrims Are Trapped In Pakistans New Recruitment Model | Exclusive

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 10:17 IST

Sources emphasise that the process often follows a fixed pattern---emotional grooming, religious influence, marriage, and conversion

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Nikahnama, passport of Indian woman who went missing in Pakistan (News18)

The mysterious disappearance of Indian Sikh woman Sarbjeet Kaur during a religious visit to Pakistan has triggered alarm bells within Indias security establishment, CNN-News18 has learnt. Intelligence agencies have described it as part of a larger, systematic pattern of pilgrim recruitment" by Pakistans intelligence networka covert strategy that uses marriage and forced religious conversion as tools of manipulation, relocation, and intelligence gathering.

Sources said Kaur, who was part of a Sikh jatha visiting Pakistan for Gurupurab celebrations, failed to return with the group. Preliminary information shared with Indian authorities suggests that she has married a Pakistani man in Lahore, and a Nikahnama accessed by CNN-News18 confirms that she has converted to Islam, taking the name Noor Hussain. The certificate, reportedly issued by a mosque in Sheikhupura, carries documentation of her supposed consent but top intelligence officials believe otherwise.

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This is not a case of individual choice. This is part of a recurring pattern of targeted recruitment under the guise of marriage and conversion," a senior intelligence source said, calling it a sophisticated soft-power penetration model" being run by Pakistans intelligence agency, the ISI.

Officials say that the ISI has for years been targeting women pilgrims from Indias minority communities, especially during organised religious visits to Pakistan. These visits, to revered Sikh shrines like Nankana Sahib, Panja Sahib, and Kartarpur Sahib, offer Pakistani handlers access to Indian visitors in controlled and monitored environments such as guesthouses, shrines, and transit camps.

It is here, according to intelligence reports, that surveillance teams, radical preachers, and local intermediaries work in coordination. Their aim: to identify emotionally vulnerable individuals, cultivate trust and dependency, and eventually trap them through romantic relationships and coerced marriages.

Sources emphasise that the process often follows a fixed patternemotional grooming, religious influence, marriage, and conversion. The so-called consent documented in the marriage certificates is often manufactured or coerced, with victims isolated from their groups or pressured under religious and emotional duress.

Once married and converted, the individual is relocated permanently within Pakistan, effectively cutting all ties with their Indian identity. In several previous cases, such individuals were later used to gather personal or community-level information, or serve as informal assets for intelligence purposes.

This dual process of conversion and marriage is Pakistans way of manufacturing social capitalit allows them to create loyal assets who can later be deployed for propaganda, information, or psychological leverage," another official said.

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What makes this model particularly insidious, officials warn, is its exploitation of religious sentiment and faith-based mobility. Pilgrims visiting shrines in Pakistan often do so with deep emotional and spiritual purpose, making them ideal targets for psychological manipulation.

This pattern, officials believe, represents a new phase in Pakistans intelligence outreachone that moves beyond conventional espionage into social engineering. By embedding Indian citizens within local Pakistani communities through marriage and religious conversion, the ISI is believed to be building a long-term, low-visibility network of sympathizers and operatives.

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

Location : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: November 15, 2025, 10:17 IST

News india The Sarbjeet Kaur Case: How Indian Pilgrims Are Trapped In Pakistans New Recruitment Model | Exclusive

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Powerful Primary Explosive Found In Car Used In Delhi Blast, Nowgam Link Under Probe: Sources

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Vani Mehrotra



Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 19:06 IST

Investigators have found that the Delhi car blast involved a volatile mix of TATP and ammonium nitrate, with the material later causing the explosion at Nowgam Police Station.

New Delhi: A police official searches for evidence in the aftermath of a car blast near Red Fort (Photo: PTI)

Days after 13 people were killed in the car blast near the Red Fort in Delhi on November 10, sources have said that triacetone triperoxide (TATP), a highly volatile primary explosive, was mixed with ammonium nitrate in the material recovered from the Faridabad module.

The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) has also found the presence of TATP in the i20 car linked to the case.

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TATP, or triacetone triperoxide, is a powerful primary explosive that is often mixed with other chemicals to make improvised explosives.

It is highly sensitive to heat, friction and shock, and unlike most commercial or military explosives, it contains no nitrogenous functional groups, making it difficult to detect through traditional methods.

Agencies now suggest the the i20 car may have exploded unplanned because of the presence of TATP.

Investigators also suspect that TATP traces may have contributed to the blast at the Nowgam Police Station in Jammu and Kashmir, where all the recovered material was stored.

TATP was used in some attacks around the world in the past, which include the 2005 London suicide bombings, the 2015 Paris attacks, and the 2016 Brussels suicide bombings.

It was also known that the Delhi bomber, Umar Nabi, was spotted at the Wazirpur Industrial Area while he was driving across the national capital. All his touchpoints were being sanitised as a precautionary measure now.

9 KILLED AT BLAST AT NOWGAM POLICE STATION

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have clarified that the explosion at the Nowgam Police Station was an accidental blast.

Investigators are probing the behaviour of the ammonium nitrate, which had reached a volatile stage and detonated on its own before samples could be collected.

The explosion took place while the ammonium nitrate was being handled.

Officials said it was being managed with utmost care, but due to its unstable state, it detonated.

A report with IANS pointed to preliminary investigations that indicate that the ammonium nitrate had been pushed beyond its stability threshold, making it capable of releasing massive energy even without a detonator.

Officials noted that the batch was at a stage where it was ready to be packed into an improvised explosive device (IED).

The ammonium nitrate had been seized after raids on the Faridabad module of Jaish-e-Mohammed, which had converted it into a high-grade explosive by adding sensitising agents and fuel.

This indicates that the plot hatched by the module was at a much advanced stage. Had the module not been busted, officials believe the chemical could have self-detonated even if stored elsewhere for longer.

Another official said the profile of the chemical showed it was meant for a large IED, including the possibility of a vehicle-borne explosive.

Earlier assessments suggested the module was preparing attacks for December 6 or January 26, but the highly volatile nature of the seized material suggests they may have planned to act much earlier.

Investigators say the operatives could have used the ammonium nitrate in a vehicle or stored it in crowded locations such as parking lots, markets or metro corridors.

In such a scenario, the chemical could have self-detonated, generating massive pressure and a large fireball, causing far more casualties than typical ammonium nitrate explosions.

The Faridabad module came under scrutiny after the Nowgam Police cracked down on Jaish-e-Mohammed posters put up across the region.

Dr Adeel Ahmad Rather was seen putting up these posters in October, warning of attacks on security forces and outsiders in Kashmir.

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His arrest on October 27 led the police to crack the Faridabad module, which had carried out the Delhi Red Fort blast, and also led to the seizure of the unstable ammonium nitrate that later caused the accidental explosion at Nowgam, killing nine people.

ALSO READ | On Camera: Moment Of Deadly Blast At Nowgam Police Station In J&K That Killed 9

About the Author Anvit Srivastava Anvit Srivastava, Principal Correspondent at CNN-News18, covers crime, security, policing and society in Delhi. His impactful ground reports have helped him make his mark among the select credited jou... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 13:27 IST

News india Powerful Primary Explosive Found In Car Used In Delhi Blast, Nowgam Link Under Probe: Sources

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'World Turning To India To Seek Answers To Its Mounting Problems': RSS Chief Bhagwat

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 20:32 IST

Mohan Bhagwat at Deendayal Smriti Lecture in Jaipur said the world looks to India for solutions, highlighting Integral Humanism, Sanatan thought, global inequality.

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat (Image: PTI/File)

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday said that the world is increasingly turning to India to seek answers to its problems.

While addressing the Deendayal Smriti Lecture on Integral Philosophy at the SMS Indoor Stadium in Jaipur, he emphasised that the global community now expects India to offer solutions rooted in its civilisational wisdom.

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 Wars happen because of nationalism, so global leaders started talking about internationalism. But we saw the ones who talk about internationalism, keep the interest of their nation paramount The powerful are struggling the most to survive, and as a result, the weaker ones are suffering The world looks towards India for solutions to global problems," he said.

Speaking at the event organised by the Ekatma Manav Darshan Anusandhan Evam Vikas Pratishthan, the RSS chief noted that Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya articulated Sanatan philosophy for the modern world by presenting it as Integral Human Philosophy in accordance with the needs of the country, time, and circumstances.

He said that in the light of Sanatan principles, it is essential to reassess the current global scenario. He said that although this philosophy was formally presented 60 years ago, its relevance today extends across the world.

VIDEO | Jaipur: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat (@DrMohanBhagwat) addresses Deendayal Smriti Lecture on Integral Philosophy.He says, World turning to India to seek answers for all their problems." (Full video available on PTI Videos - pic.twitter.com/Ze72aN2kaY  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 15, 2025

He also said that the world changes its ideals every 15 years, but Indias Sanatan thought timeless.

Clarifying that Dharma does not refer to religion, sect, or creed, he said it signifies a destination and a universal outlook that accommodates all.

At present, he said, the world must adopt this Dharma of Integral Human Philosophy. He noted that historically, Indians have never exploited or harmed others when travelling abroad, and instead contributed positively wherever they went.

While lifestyles, food habits, and clothing in India have changed over time, the eternal philosophy of integral humanism has remained intact," he said. Its foundation, he said, is the belief that happiness lies within oneself.

Recognising this inner happiness leads to the understanding that the entire world is one. Integral humanism is a philosophy free from extremism," he emphasised.

Commenting on rapid scientific progress, Bhagwat said that while material comforts have increased, peace and satisfaction have not. As many medicines have been discovered, as many new diseases have appeared. Some ailments even arise because of the medicines themselves," he said, adding that human immunity has weakened, raising concerns about the very survival of humankind.

He questioned whether health has truly improved despite new medicines, pointing out that some illnesses arise due to certain treatments.

He further noted that only 4% of the global population uses 80 per cent of the worlds resources, widening the gap between developed and underdeveloped nations. He also pointed to escalating environmental destruction and conflicts driven by narrow nationalism. The strong fight their battles, but it is the rest of the world that suffers," he remarked.

He said that India has always had diversity, but it has never been a source of conflict  rather, a source of celebration.

Indian society accommodated countless deities and continued to welcome more without any difficulty. The world acknowledges the existence of happiness for the body, mind, and intellect, but not how to achieve all three together," he said.

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According to Bhagwat, India uniquely understands this because it believes in the holistic happiness of the body, mind, intellect, and soul.

(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) degre... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 20:25 IST

News india 'World Turning To India To Seek Answers To Its Mounting Problems': RSS Chief Bhagwat

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Artist Places AI Portrait In UK Museum As A Prank; Highlights State Of Kids In Wales

Curated By :



Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 13:00 IST

"AI is here to stay, and restricting its use would go against my artistic beliefs," explained Elias on why he hung the artwork in the museum.

Artist Elias Marrow's AI-generated artwork titled Empty Plate

In a plot that couldve come straight from a movie, an artist managed to discreetly place an AI-generated print on a gallery wall, leaving museum visitors puzzled until the staff figured out the switch.

The print, housed in a wooden frame, was displayed at the National Museum Cardiff, United Kingdom, by the elusive artist Elias Marrow. His piece, titled Empty Plate, shows a young boy in a school uniform holding a plate. It is listed with the medium and lender: Digital print on paper, custom-made frame. Limited edition, signed. On loan from the artist, 2025."

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Elias claimed that several hundred people saw it before it was removed. His website explains that the Empty Plate artwork symbolises the state of Wales in 2025 and the many children that go hungry.

In a post on Instagram, Elias captioned the artwork and wrote, Empty Plate in place. Unnoticed in its weight and scope. This is not art, its a symbol of the power of the moment."

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elias Marrow (@elias_marrow)

An observant visitor questioned a staff member about the artwork, but the museum employee confessed to having no idea about its provenance or arrival.

An item was placed without permission on a gallery wall in the National Museum Cardiff," a spokesperson for the National Museum said in an emailed statement. We were alerted to this and have removed the item in question," it read.

Elias expressed his curiosity about how public institutions determine what is worth displaying and the consequences of introducing something from outside the established system. He saw the use of AI in creating the artwork as a natural progression of artistic tools, noting that he first sketched the image before utilising AI.

AI is here to stay, and restricting its use would go against my artistic beliefs," shared Elias.

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According to Elias, visitors responded positively to the piece, taking photos of it. He mentioned that similar actions he had taken at Bristol Museum and Tate Modern were neither approved nor recognised by the institutions. He denied that his actions constituted vandalism, stating, The work isnt about disruption. Its about participation without permission. Im not asking for permission, but Im not causing harm either."

Talking about the AI-generated picture, Elias wrote: The plate is empty. The book is closed. His uniform bears the insignia of an institution long since erased. It is unclear whether he waits to be fed, punished, or simply forgotten." A report by Artnet states that a Welsh phrase follows, which translates to: In hunger, he tries to learn; in poverty, he tries to live; in Wales, he calls it home."

First Published: November 15, 2025, 13:00 IST

News lifestyle events Artist Places AI Portrait In UK Museum As A Prank; Highlights State Of Kids In Wales
Kylie Jenner Shuts Down Split Buzz By Liking Timothee Chalamets New Post

Published By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 18:42 IST

Kylie Jenner shut down breakup rumours with Timothee Chalamet after liking his recent post. Heres how her subtle move and insider reports confirm the couple is still going strong.

Kylie Jenner and Timothee Chalamet have been dating for over two years now.

It seems love is still in the air for Kylie Jenner and Timothee Chalamet despite swirling breakup rumours. The beauty mogul and media personality subtly put an end to the speculation with a simple but telling social media move  liking a recent post by the Dune star.

According to Page Six, Kylie Jenner liked an Instagram video shared by Timothee just hours after reports surfaced suggesting the couple had split. The post, captioned MARTY SUUUUUUUUUPREME," featured a trailer for Chalamets upcoming film Marty Supreme.

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View this post on Instagram A post shared by Timothee Chalamet (@tchalamet)

Kylie Jenners Online Move Silences Split Buzz

For days, fans had been speculating about a possible rift between the two after Timothee was noticeably absent from the lavish 70th birthday celebration of Kylies mother, Kris Jenner, over the weekend. The event was attended by several A-list celebrities, and his absence quickly became a talking point online.

However, Page Six reported that Kylies subtle social media activity effectively cleared all the rumours", proving that theres no trouble in paradise. Her like on Timothees post signalled that the two are still on good terms  if not stronger than ever.

Sources Confirm: Theyre Really In Love

Multiple insiders have now set the record straight, confirming that Kylie and Timothee are still going strong. According to People, the pair are doing great" and continue to make time for each other despite their busy schedules.

She even flew out to visit him on set in New York City. They also met up in London while he was shooting Dune," a source revealed, adding, Theyre really in love." Their commitment to maintaining their relationship despite demanding careers shows that the couples bond runs deeper than the glitz and glamour surrounding them.

Kylie Jenner On Keeping Her Relationship Private

Although the duo often attract headlines, Kylie Jenner has always maintained a preference for privacy when it comes to her love life. In a past conversation with ELLE, the Kylie Cosmetics founder opened up about why she chooses to keep things low-key.

I think its important to keep things to yourself. Its hard for me to make a decision by myself sometimes, so the opinion of the whole worldit can be tough," she explained.

A Love Story That Began In 2023

Kylie Jenner and Timothee Chalamets romance first sparked in 2023, taking fans by surprise. The pair made their red carpet debut at the prestigious 70th David di Donatello Awards in Rome, officially confirming their relationship after months of speculation.

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Since then, the couple has been spotted attending several high-profile events together, including the 2025 Golden Globes, BAFTA Awards and the Oscars, often drawing attention for their understated chemistry and coordinated looks.

Despite their superstar status, the two have managed to keep their relationship largely private, giving fans only occasional glimpses through rare appearances and subtle online interactions  much like Kylies recent likes that put breakup rumours to rest.

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 18:42 IST

News lifestyle Kylie Jenner Shuts Down Split Buzz By Liking Timothee Chalamets New Post
Bhai Is The Sweetest: Salman Khans UAE Day Out Shows Why Kids Adore Him

Published By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 12:57 IST

Salman Khan marked Childrens Day in his signature style by spending time with his young fans.

He was on his Da-Bangg tour at the time. (Photo Credit: Instagram)

Every devoted Salman Khan fan knows about the superstars soft corner for children. Whether on sets, at events or during public appearances, his interactions with kids often go viral for all the right reasons. This Childrens Day, the actor once again melted hearts as he shared adorable moments with his youngest admirers, instantly winning over social media.

Currently touring the UAE for his Da-Bangg event series, Salman Khan took time out to meet young fans on the special occasion of Childrens Day. A clip shared on his Instagram story, now circulating widely online, shows the actor warmly greeting children backstage, shaking their hands, waving to them and acknowledging their excitement.

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One particularly touching moment in the video shows Salman instinctively protecting a little girl who gets nudged by the crowd. His caring gesture left fans emotional. Captioning the video, he simply wrote: Happy Childrens Day!"

Salman Khans Da-Bangg Tour Reloaded Lights Up Qatar

The superstar is currently in Qatar for the Da-Bangg: The Tour Reloaded show in Doha. Joining him on stage are some of the biggest entertainers in the industry, including Jacqueline Fernandez, Tamannaah Bhatia, Stebin Ben, Sunil Grover, Prabhu Deva and Maniesh Paul.

The high-energy live event, held on November 14 at the Asian Town Amphitheatre, witnessed a massive turnout as fans gathered to catch a glimpse of their favourite stars performing live.

Behind-the-Scenes: Salman Rehearses With Jacqueline and Tamannaah

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Salman Khan (@beingsalmankhan)

Adding to the excitement, Salman also posted a rehearsal video on Instagram. In the clip, he can be seen practising performance sequences alongside Tamannaah Bhatia and Jacqueline Fernandez. The video also includes brief glimpses of Sunil Grover and Maniesh Paul, giving fans an exclusive sneak peek into the tours preparations.

Salman Khan Opens Up About His Desire for Parenthood

The Sultan actor has often expressed his affection for children and his wish to be a father someday. While he has previously stated he doesnt plan on getting married, Salman has hinted at the possibility of adopting a child in the future.

Salman Khans Upcoming Projects and Television Commitments

On the work front, Salman Khan is gearing up for his next big film, Battle of Galwan. Inspired by the 2020 India-China conflict, the film is directed by Apoorva Lakhia and stars Chitrangada Singh as the female lead. The team has reportedly wrapped up filming in Ladakh.

Alongside his film commitments, the Bollywood megastar is also currently captivating audiences as the host of Bigg Boss 19, continuing his long-standing association with the iconic reality show.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 12:57 IST

News movies bollywood Bhai Is The Sweetest: Salman Khans UAE Day Out Shows Why Kids Adore Him
Opinion | After The Ni-Na Tsunami, Time To Begin The Journey Towards Viksit Bihar

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 14:20 IST

After achieving a thumping majority, the easy part is done for the NDA; now the tough task of propelling the state rapidly towards Viksit Bharat must begin

The credibility of PM Narendra Modi and CM Nitish Kumar, both seen as leaders who deliver on promises, remained an overarching factor. (PTI Photo)

At 19:14 hours on 14 November, thousands gathered outside the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) office in New Delhi. Prompted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, they chanted Chhathi Maiyya Ki Jai" as he rose to deliver his victory speech after the astounding performance of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the hustings in the 2025 Bihar elections.

Those chants will remain etched in history because, at precisely 19:14 hours, the number of seats won by the NDA coalition surged to 125, three more than the 122 needed for an absolute majority in the new Assembly. And at 20:20 hours, minutes after the Prime Minister ended his victory speech, the number of seats won by the NDA surged to 165, three more than 162, the magic number needed for a two-thirds majority.

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Ni Na Tsunami

The caravan should have stopped here, because a two-thirds majority was the most optimistic figure that even the boldest poll pundits had suggested in the opinion polls for the NDA. But it was just the beginning, and the silent voters of the poorest state of Bharat stumped psephologists of all genres by ushering in a Ni Na tsunami (NitishNarendra tsunami) that decimated the Mahagathbandhan.

The Numbers Speak

As Friday turned into Saturday, the final picture of the NDAs stupendous win emerged  more than a four-fifths majority in the Assembly, unprecedented in any state election in recent times.

Here is what the numbers show:

Ni Na Tsunami: NDA total seats  202 (four-fifths mark: 194), of which

BJP  89

JD(U)  85

LJP  19

RLM  4

Mahagathbandhan decimated  34 seats, of which

RJD  25

Congress  6

CPI(ML)  2

CPI  1

Others 

AIMIM  5

BSP  1

IIP  1

What a scale of victory it turned out to be. It is only the second time in history that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has crossed the 200-seat mark in Bihar Assembly elections, and this performance, with 202 seats, is next only to the 206 seats won by the NDA in 2010.

I will soon decode the unprecedented mandate given by the people of Bihar to the NDA, but before that, a brief look at the relevance of Pataliputra and Bihar for Bharat.

Shows The Way

Bihar, the third most populous state of Bharat, with 89 per cent of its people living in rural areas, has been a cradle of democracy for more than two millennia. It was here, in the seventh century BCE, that the Licchavi Republic sowed the seeds of democracy in the world. After Ajatashatru, the king of Magadha, set up Pataliputra in 490 BCE, for the next 1,000 years, Pataliputra was a cradle of civilisation and played a disproportionate role in the politics, history and culture of Bharat.

Cut to the freedom struggle: it was in Bihar, at Champaran, that Mahatma Gandhi launched his movement, and it was after his famous speech on the Patna lawns that the ground was rechristened Gandhi Maidan. It used to be said that no political leader had truly arrived on the scene until he had addressed a gathering at Patnas Gandhi Maidan.

Over to 1974: it was in the same Gandhi Maidan that, on 5 June 1974, Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan gave his clarion call of Sampoorna Kranti" (Total Revolution), which led to the political upheaval of 1977, decimating the Iron Lady" Indira Gandhi and sowing the seeds of multi-party democracy in the country.

Bye Bye Jungle Raj

Impoverished and underdeveloped Bihar has risen again  this time with the resolute commitment to make the state a Viksit Bihar", turning it away from the politics of appeasement and the jungle raj that was its bane for decades.

But how did this happen? The paragraphs below tell the story.

Unprecedented

When it comes to the percentage of polling, Bihar has traditionally been a laggard. Also, in the paternalistic society of the underdeveloped state, male members of the family decided how women would vote, if they would vote at all. This prototype of Bihar is now a thing of the distant past.

As per the provisional data received, the 2025 Bihar Legislative Assembly election ended with a historic highest-ever voter turnout of 67.13 per cent. This is the highest voter turnout ever recorded in the state since 1951. But the above is just the trailer.

The Nari Shakti Power

The biggest story of the 2025 Bihar election is that while the male voters percentage lagged at 62.98 per cent, that of women voters surged to an unprecedented and unheard-of 71.78 per cent.

It is worthwhile to note that, as per the preliminary voter turnout data from the Election Commission of India (ECI), women outnumbered men by at least 4.34 lakh votes, which is striking as they were registered approximately 42 lakh fewer than men on the electoral rolls following the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). This gender gap, where those with fewer registrations turned out in greater absolute numbers, is the real story emerging out of the Bihar elections.

As readers will see soon, the record voting is the franchise exercised for transparent governance and fast-paced development by the impoverished electorate of the state, yearning to become Viksit Bihar over the next 25 years.

Unsurprisingly then, the NDA leadership has attributed the current mandate to the states strong rural support base and what it describes as Bihars vote for dignity and self-respect."

Another First

The history of elections in Bihar has been marred by bloodbaths, electoral violence, booth capturing and repolling at hundreds of booths. A comparative look at past polls tells the story:

The 1985 elections saw 63 deaths and repolling in 156 booths. In 1990, 87 deaths were reported. In 1995, the elections were postponed four times due to rampant violence under Chief Election Commissioner T.N. Seshan In 2005, repolling was ordered in 660 booths.

The above is only the tip of the iceberg. And such a difficult scenario made conducting free and fair elections a nightmare for the officials, who were forced to stagger the Bihar elections over multiple phases.

But what a contrast the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections have proven to be  despite the round of elections being cut down to two, the voting was not only peaceful, but it will go down in history as a rare Bihar election where there was zero repolling, zero electoral violence and, resultantly, no deaths.

The Longest Serving

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called the election results a victory for sushasan and the development delivered by the double-engine government, and, likely, Nitish Kumar will soon resume his governance duties, taking oath for the 10th time as Chief Minister after being at the helm for nearly 20 years.

Already, Nitish has overtaken Sri Krishna Sinha, the states first post-Independence CM, who held a single uninterrupted stretch of 14 years and 314 days. And soon, he is likely to join the league of the longest-serving chief ministers in the country.

What Led To The Landslide?

But what is behind the continued supremacy of Nitish Kumar in Bihar politics? Also, what explains the landslide victory of the NDA at the hustings, along with the complete decimation of the combined Opposition bloc, particularly because just before the elections, the consensus estimate of pollsters was that the going was going to be tough for the NDA this time, especially due to the entry of the Jan Suraaj Party in the fray.

Here is what seems to have transpired:

One, Beyond Caste, Creed and Religion  there is a saying in Bihar that the daughter and the vote must be given within the caste. Having been a keen watcher of Bihar politics for more than five decades, I say this was the traditional paradigm of voting during elections in the state. But as a proud Bihari, I submit humbly that the latest election has resolutely broken out of this traditional mould and moved beyond caste, creed and religion.

And the numbers speak for themselves  out of 53 seats with the highest Muslim population, 40 have been bagged by the NDA as against 8 by the MGB. More interestingly, despite Mukesh Sahni being projected as the Deputy CM face of the MGB, most of the seats with high Nishad population have been won by the NDA, while the once-winning MY combination of the RJD seems to have been permanently punctured.

Two, The New MY Equation  the Prime Minister has rightly hit the nerve of this election when he says that the landslide NDA tsunami is attributable to the new MY equation: Mahila (who have come out in unprecedented numbers to vote) and youth (Bihar has the youngest population in the country). I will delve deeper into this soon.

Three, Historic Jump in the Vote Share  in the last Assembly election, the NDA and the MGB were neck and neck in terms of vote share percentage. This time it is radically different. As per preliminary data, the NDA has secured 48 per cent vote share, while the MGB lags at 38 per cent, with others capturing 14 per cent. This ten-percentage-point vote difference between the NDA and the MGB has been unleashed by the Ni Na Tsunami.

The debutant Jan Suraaj Party of Prashant Kishor was expected to make life difficult for the NDA. Contrarily, it has ended with a thud, with 3.4 per cent vote share and zero seats, and most of its candidates forfeiting their deposits.

Four, Women First Strategy  polling booths across the state saw long serpentine queues of women voters outnumbering men, with a historic 71.6 per cent of women coming out of their homes to vote, and often voting according to their own choice rather than as dictated by the men of their households.

A narrative has been built that the surge of women voters was owing to the disbursal of Rs 10,000 to 25 lakh women by the state government just before the announcement of the polls. I say this might have played a tertiary role, but it was not the prime mover.

Make no mistake, Nitish Kumars political dominance in Bihar owes much to his strategic focus on women-first policies, womens empowerment, and women-centric welfare schemes rolled out periodically since 2005, when he first became Chief Minister.

A few such schemes are the Mukhyamantri Balika Cycle Yojana, which provides free bicycles to schoolgirls; 50 per cent reservation for women in panchayats and urban local bodies; and a 35 per cent quota for women in police recruitment. Initiatives like the Jeevika self-help group programme have further empowered millions by promoting microfinance and entrepreneurship in rural areas.

The unprecedented participation of women in this election tilted the scales in favour of the NDA, reflecting the electorates response to nearly two decades of targeted schemes by the Nitish Kumar government aimed at empowering women across the state.

Complementing Nitish Kumars women-first strategies was the innovative Lakhpati Didi programme of the central government, designed to foster womens entrepreneurship by providing financial support, skills training and resources. By encouraging self-employment and economic independence, Lakhpati Didi has cultivated a loyal constituency of women who view the government favourably.

Clearly, women have emerged as influential stakeholders in Bihars political landscape, rewarding tangible government efforts to improve their welfare, safety, education, and economic status with steadfast electoral support.

Overall, Nitish Kumars sustained focus on womens empowerment and welfare has reshaped Bihars electoral dynamics, securing a sweeping mandate for his government in 2025.

It is unsurprising that in as many as seven districts women outvoted men by more than 14 percentage pointsa wave that went in favour of the NDA.

Five, Resilient and Smart Election Management  NDA made a rainbow coalition of voters that neutralised the powerful caste arithmetic on which the MJB banked heavily. More interestingly, it closed the gaps exposed in the 2020 election, revamped its election machinery with perfect coordination among partners, making vote transfer smooth, and managed booths more efficiently.

Six, Reigniting the Fear of Jungle Raj  For a large section of the Bihar electorate, the memories of the 15 years of LaluRabri jungle raj" still send shivers down the spine. The NDA was able to keep the narrative of no return to jungle raj intact and capitalised successfully on the same.

Seven, the Great Infrastructure Push  Atal Bihari Vajpayees famous adage Gaddhe mein sadak or sadak mein gadha" held particularly true for Bihar. In the NDA governments reign helmed by Nitish Kumar, the extraordinary push in the infrastructure arena has been unmistakable  be it roads, bridges, the fast-increasing number of airports, metro rail in the state capital, electricity in every home in the remotest villages (including free power up to 125 units covering around 2 crore households), 60 lakh houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), and the list is growing fast.

Significantly, the NDA governments introduction of free power up to 125 units, implemented from 1 September and covering around 2 crore households in the state, also seems to have contributed to gaining voters support.

Eight, The Modi Trust  Over the past 11 years, a significant degree of trust has been built among the electorate around Prime Minister Narendra Modi  his image, perceived integrity, commitment and laser-focused attention to development. Like Haryana, Maharashtra and Delhi, this trust too has played a significant role in the resounding electoral victory of the NDA in Bihar.

Nine, The X Factor  Make no mistake: the X-Factor in this election that fuelled the NDA surge is Nitish Kumar himself, whose Sushashan Babu and corruption-free image became the blocs biggest asset, along with his women-first strategy.

At 74, Nitish remains more relevant than ever in Bihars political landscape, shouldering the weight of the NDAs campaign. According to a report, the JD(U) supremo attended 84 rallies  just one fewer than 39-year-old Tejashwi Yadav.

The Weight of the Verdict  With the stupendous victory, the people of Bihar have given a humongous responsibility to the NDA. The state remains the poorest in the country, with a disproportionate 89 per cent rural population. Unemployment remains the biggest bane of the state, and it lags on all key socio-economic parameters. After achieving a thumping majority, the easy part is done for the NDA; now the tough task of propelling the state rapidly towards Viksit Bharat must begin.

The NDAs victory in Bihar was not an overnight phenomenon. It was built on women-led turnout, caste consolidation, better management, a disjointed Opposition, and a leadership pitch that resonated with voters seeking continuity over uncertainty.

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The verdict reflects both societal shifts and the enduring weight of Bihars political memories.

The author is a multidisciplinary thought leader with Action Bias, India-based international impact consultant, and keen watcher of changing national and international scenarios. He works as president, advisory services of consulting company BARSYL. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 14:20 IST

News opinion Opinion | After The Ni-Na Tsunami, Time To Begin The Journey Towards Viksit Bihar

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Palantir Technologies Inc.s top British executive said its planning a significant investment in the UK to win military contracts, even as the software company has complained about slow traction in Europe.

The UK can be an epicenter of defense and military technology development, Louis Mosley, Palantirs UK head, told Bloomberg Television in a special episode on European defense. It has all of those ingredients.

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Britain, like much of Europe, has set plans to increase military spending and outfit its armed forces with more advanced tech, like autonomous drones and artificial intelligence software. Earlier this year, Palantir pledged to invest 1.5 billion ($2 billion) in the UK and is finalizing a new 750 million, five-year deal with the Ministry of Defense.

WATCH: The UK can be an epicenter of defense and military technology development, Mosley says.Source: Bloomberg

Palantirs closely watched shares have enjoyed a stratospheric rally on Wall Street, fueled up by the global boom in defense spending and a frenzy around AI. Last year, the company won a Pentagon contract to provide software for identifying battlefield targets and gathering intelligence.

Michael Burry, the famed hedge manager, recently took a short position in the company, sending its shares down. They are still up more than 143% this year as of the close of trading on Wednesday.

Palantir gets about a tenth of its sales from the UK, where it has a controversial contract with the National Health Service.

However, continental Europe has been more reluctant to purchase Palantir tools, primarily due to concerns over privacy and political sovereignty. On an earnings call last week, Chief Executive Officer Alex Karp told investors that growth is being held down by a stagnant Europe, which is still a significant part of our business.

In October, the company signed an early agreement with the Polish defense ministry, but the terms werent disclosed.

Mosley said Palantir currently has about a thousand employees in London, its second-largest office globally. The UK is the premier military power in Europe, he said. I think it has the potential to be a key bridge into the rest of the continent.

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2025 Bloomberg L.P.
Opinion | Delhis Toxic Air: Time to Confront Rather Than Endure The Crisis

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 16:18 IST

Scientists estimate that air pollution in Delhi reduces an average life by almost a decade

For children whose lungs are still growing, and brains still wiring, the degraded air means compromised futures.

I sometimes wonder if the citizens of Delhi are unredeemable stoics. However critical or unsatisfactory the situation may be, and however many times it may recur with unerring regularity, seriously endangering health and the right to life, they largely live with it, merely hoping that next year will be better.

I write this in the context of the deathly pollution that is asphyxiating the denizens of our capital city right now. It is an annual nightmare, and yet the threshold of protest of long-suffering citizens never reaches a level that can compel the powers that be to bring about institutional, systemic and enduring change. This is truly perplexing considering the high costs in health and well-being that pollution of this magnitude extracts.

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Consider the facts. According to the latest analysis, ambient particulate pollution accounted for approximately 17,188 deaths in Delhi in 2023roughly one in every seven deaths. The numbers are alarming by themselves, but their inadequacy lies in their abstractionthey obscure the stories of individual lungs, of children awakened by coughing fits, of elders gasping for air. The fine particles (PM2.5 particularly) penetrate deep into the lungs, enter the bloodstream, trigger inflammation, damage blood vessels. The consequence: higher incidence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, cardiovascular disease, stroke, lung cancereven digestive and neurological disorders.

For children whose lungs are still growing, and brains still wiring, the degraded air means compromised futures. Studies link pollution exposure to lower reading and maths scores, developmental delays, reduced white-matter brain integrity and earlier cognitive ageing. Scientists estimate that the air in Delhi reduces an average life by almost a decade. A survey found that in Delhi-NCR: 62 per cent of families had someone suffering from burning eyes, 46 per cent runny nose or congestion, 31 per cent breathing difficulties or asthma, and 15 per cent sleep problemsall attributable to pollution. In short, Delhis pollution is not an environmental badge of shame solelyit is a public health emergency.

The causes of this crisis are known. We know that as winter approaches, winds weaken, and the resulting inversion layer traps pollutants close to the ground. The city becomes a bowl of stagnationemissions released into the air have no escape route. We know too that emissions from diesel and petrol vehicles powered by ageing engines and weak regulatory enforcement, dust from unending construction, biomass and waste-burning in and around the city, industrial emissions, and the vast crop-residue burning in neighbouring statesespecially Punjab and Haryanaare all contributing factors.

But if the causes are known, why arent lasting solutions the goal? Somehow, every year, after the crisis sets in, we have only a well-practised expertise in short-term reactive solutions, when what we need is a co-ordinated inter-state time-bound programme of action, involving measurable targets, periodic audits, penalties, sanctions, judicial oversight, and the full-time contribution of environmental experts.

Above all, the realisation must dawn that this is a problem that cannot be tackled by only one state government. At least five statesDelhi, Punjab, Haryana, UP and Rajasthanare involved. This requires the central government to take the lead to draw up specific and defined actions in each of the states within a predetermined time period. Unfortunately, what happens instead is sterile politics. Earlier, when the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) was in power in Delhi, the BJP government at the centre would blame the AAP government, and the AAP the BJP. Now that the AAP is in power in Punjab, the same finger-pointing routine is being repeated between the centre and the government in Punjab.

Strengthening emission controls and implementing transport overhaul, or solving the crop-burning problem, or ensuring that pollutants dont make the Yamuna a cesspool of filth, or even building a green infrastructure, urban migration, open fires and micro-climate mitigation, are regional issues and must be tackled collectively as part of a well-oiled systemic matrix, for individual state initiatives, however well-intentioned or effective, will just not work.

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Elections will come and go and come again, and politics will never end, but people are dying of toxic air even as I write this. When will the central and concerned state governments realise this and overcome their systemic inertia? To breathe in Delhi should not imply an act of endurance. It should be the simple miracle of living. The question is not only why the crisis persists, but why we tolerate it. And the answer lies in an awakening: collective, conscious, courageous. If Delhi chooses, it can become proof that even the most stubborn smog can be dispelledand the lungs of millions can be freed. When will our administrators and even more our politicians get out of their air-purified rooms and breathe the air outside?

The writer is a former diplomat, an author, and a politician. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 16:16 IST

News opinion Opinion | Delhis Toxic Air: Time to Confront Rather Than Endure The Crisis

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Opinion | Educated Extremist: The New Face Of Radicalism In India

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 17:40 IST

Along with preventing the radicalisation of Islam, the Islamisation of radicalism must also be prevented, and primary responsibility for this lies with Islamic bodies themselves

Faridabad recovery followed revelations made by Dr Adil Ahmad Rather during questioning.

A major attack on India was averted last week when our agencies seized 2,900 kg of explosives. Although the larger plot was foiled, a blast still occurred in Delhi, claiming 13 lives. Had the seized explosives not been intercepted and instead used by the terrorists, India could have suffered an unprecedented tragedypotentially the largest terror attack on Indian soil. That, however, was prevented by our agencies, for which they deserve all the appreciation.

A particularly troubling aspect of this terror plot is the profile of those involved. The perpetrators were not the usual category of fundamentalists with minimal education, standing on the margins of literacy and steeped more in dogma than in academics. This time, the radicals are well educated and well positioned in society. Those arrested with the explosives are doctors. Reflecting on how violence can be engineered not only from the fringes of society but also from its professional and educated ranks, the media is now delving into the idea of white-collar terrorism".

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The term white-collar crime was coined by American sociologist Edwin Sutherland, who argued that criminal behaviour cannot be explained simply by poverty or the psychological conditions linked to it, and that a true understanding of crime requires an entirely different framework. Sutherland was not speaking about religious terrorism; he lived and wrote in an era when such extremism was far less potent, weaponised, and politicised. As a description of terror activity, the term was earlier used to denote attacks on telecommunications or data-processing systems where the perpetrator aimed to cause widespread disruption.

Only recently has the term come to describe religiously motivated attacks carried out by educated individuals who hold steady, middle-class professional roles and enjoy social respectability. The people arrested before the blasts near Red Fortindividuals who had stockpiled a significant cache of weapons and an enormous haul of explosive materialswere educated, exposed to the world and its ways, and were the ones who planned an attack that, if successful in its entirety, would have brought immeasurable pain to India.

Individuals with such profiles are not unheard of internationally; many of those behind the heinous 9/11 attacks were well educated. However, in India this marks a shift. The attackers we have typically seen here are young men who can be easily manipulated, who come from poverty-stricken backgrounds, and who have little exposure to the wider worldpeople like Ajmal Kasab. There were even reports that during the 2008 attacks, the perpetrators were thoroughly amazed by the luxury and opulence of the hotel interiors.

This raises many questions and concerns. First, it has the potential to seriously affect the social fabric of society. Whether one is educated or not, exposed to the world or not, or comes from an educated family or not, ones faith may begin to shape ones acceptability and credibility in society. In other words, white-collar terrorism" has the potential to ostracise an entire community based solely on their faith. Remember the kind of discrimination the Muslim community in the United States faced after 9/11. Even years later, the repercussions were evident. Zohran Mamdani spoke about this openly during his campaign, and two decades later, when he won the New York mayoral election, a sense of white guilt played a role. The electorate felt the need to atone for the profiling and deep-rooted discrimination Muslims had endured. Much the same way, society here might one day recognise the irrationality of ostracising an entire community; however, suspicion may linger for a long time unless the community itself strongly and unequivocally speaks out against such elements and does everything possible to bring them to justice.

Second, this raises many questions about these white-collar" actors. If education, exposure, and experience of a world beyond the circle of believers cannot dissuade someone from religious fundamentalism, then what can? Edwin Sutherland wrote decades ago that crime is not closely correlated with poverty. Are we to think along similar lines and conclude that religious extremism is not closely correlated with educationthat the two can, in fact, coexist? The answer is complicated, yet ultimately affirmative. One study conducted after 9/11 observed that any connection between poverty, education, and terrorism is indirect, complicated, and probably quite weak". It went on to say that terrorism is more accurately viewed as a response to political conditions and long-standing feelings (either perceived or real) of indignity and frustration that have little to do with economics."

This is hardly reassuring. But one can guess that similar feelings might have been at work among those who were arrested, making the observation more persuasive. What is concerning, then, is that even educated people may harbour such grievances and act on them, fully aware of the seriousness of such acts and the harm they can cause. Although India had been largely insulated from the involvement of educated individuals in acts of terrorism, the present circumstances suggest that this can no longer be assumed. This recognition necessitates a more deliberate and methodical examination of this emerging pattern. What makes someone who is educatedwho knows the ways of the world and has interacted with diverse communitiessupport extremism?

One explanation put forward by some researchers concerns the family backgrounds of radicals. Many are thought to come from dysfunctional families, which may foster a desire to become better" than their parents. This rebellious attitude can then be exploited by the pseudo-intellectualism of certain radical preachers. David Vallat, himself once a radical, wrote after renouncing extremism that such preaching often sounded like this: Your fathers Islam is what the colonisers left behindan Islam of those who bow down and obey. Our Islam is the Islam of combatants, of blood, of resistance." Another characteristic Olivier Roy mentions in his book Jihad and Death: The Global Appeal of Islamic State is that radicals are almost all born-again" religious people who, after living a highly secular life, suddenly renew their religious observance, either individually or in a small group.

A highly secular life suddenly becoming parochial is true not only for individuals but also for larger communities. In Kerala, for example, the niqab or burqa was virtually unknown until the late 1990s. Although most Muslim families had at least one member working in Gulf countries, this attire never became popular in India. The late nineties saw the rise of several hard-line Muslim organisations, funded and supported by Wahhabism, that promoted stricter adherence to Islamic dress codes, and today the niqab is as commonif not more commonthan the saree or churidar in Kerala. A community that had once lived a largely secular life, visited temples and astrologers, and participated wholeheartedly in the religious festivals of other communities, gradually became more reclusive and religious. There are now preachers in Kerala who openly demand that Muslims should not extend Onam or Christmas greetings to their friends.

Olivier Roy argues that what we are witnessing is not the radicalisation of Islam but the Islamisation of radicalismmeaning that contemporary extremism is less about Islamic theology. The new breed of educated extremists does not pore over Islamic texts; rather, its actions stem from their own pre-existing tendency toward radicalism. This pre-existing radicalism, combined with a flawed understanding of a few religious concepts, leads them to adopt Islam and misinterpret it as a framework for their violence. The discriminatory attitude prevailing against Islam in some quarters can make it an obvious choice for them; they are seeking to satisfy their rebellious impulses. The point is that none of this is the fault of an average Muslim who is living his life just like any of us.

Yet an average Muslim finds his life becoming more difficult, especially when more such white-collar criminals" are exposed. From 9/11 to the Mumbai attacks, each terrorist incident is also an assault on this average Muslim. During his campaign, Zohran Mamdani remarked that after 9/11 his aunt stopped taking the subway because she no longer felt safe wearing her hijab. His intention was to highlight the Islamophobia and discrimination an ordinary Muslim had to face. What he did not address is how a terrorist act harms the very community the perpetrators claim to defend.

Given that it is neither his fault nor his failure, and given that his religion is being misused, should this average Muslim get involved in the discussion at all? Should he publicly denounce extremism or declare that he and his religion have nothing to do with such acts? Many would argue that he absolutely does not need to. Why should he be expected to do so? Such suggestions would immediately be written off as Islamophobia. Anticipating this risk, people generally refrain from discussing proposals that do not align with the liberal consciousness" prevailing in our discourses.

On the other side, we do see Muslim organisations and many liberals vociferously raising their voices for those detained for suspected involvement in terrorism or who remain in prison pre-trial. If that is an issue that every Muslim or every liberal must speak out againstif in that context the religious identity of those imprisoned becomes importantthen terrorist acts committed in the name of Islam should be equally a concern for every Muslim, and they should raise their voices against them as well. The religious identity of the perpetrators or organisers should also matter.

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The community as a whole should vociferously speak out against such elements and ensure that religion is not being used for their nefarious purposes. Along with preventing the radicalisation of Islam, the Islamisation of radicalism must also be prevented, and the primary responsibility for this lies with Islamic bodies themselves.

The writer is a commentator with a research degree in philosophy from the University of Sheffield, focusing on the intersections of culture, history, and politics. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the writer. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

About the Author Prajesh Panikkar Prajesh is a commentator with a research degree in philosophy from the University of Sheffield, focusing on the intersections of culture, history, and politics.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 17:40 IST

News opinion Opinion | Educated Extremist: The New Face Of Radicalism In India

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Opinion | Vande Mataram: Not Just A Song, But A Mantra Of Patriotism

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 08:47 IST

Those who debate Vande Mataram often focus narrowly on literal meanings, overlooking the sentiment it conveys.

Indias national song Vande Mataram completes 150 years today, marking a century and a half of patriotic resonance, literary brilliance, and revolutionary spirit. (Image: File Pic)

Vande Mataram. Just two words, yet they carry profound emotion  patriotism, devotion to the motherland, and national pride. Alongside the National Anthem, these words have become one of the most widely recognised patriotic chants across India. But in essence, Vande Mataram is a mantra  a mantra of patriotism. From the very beginning, it emerged as a voice of protest and a slogan of resistance.

To understand this, we need to return to the second half of the 19th century  India after the Great Rebellion of 1857. Power transitioned from the East India Company to the British Crown. Political and cultural consciousness among Indians was intensifying. Across Bengal and the rest of India  except within certain sections of the Muslim community, a community often excluded from or actively resistant to that emerging cultural renaissance  nationalist feelings were growing. This historical reality is important even today for those who perceive Vande Mataram as exclusionary.

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In Indian thought, religion and society have never been separate concepts. In the Sanatana Hindu imagination, the nation is revered as a mother  much like the earth itself. Hence, in Indian tradition, bowing to the land is viewed as a duty. Against this backdrop, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, in 1875, created an extraordinary mantra blending Sanskrit and Bengali to invoke the image of the Motherland. Seven years later, in 1882, he incorporated the song into his novel Anandamath. The character Bhavananda envisions the motherland as a divine figure. In the novel, the Sanyasi rebels sing Vande Mataram with deep emotion, drawing inspiration from it. The song recalled the countrys lost glory and lamented its present condition under colonial rule. Gradually, Vande Mataram transformed from a song into a mantra.

The distinction between a song and a mantra is significant. A song is a harmonious composition of words, melody, rhythm and cadence  intended to bring joy and stir emotion. A mantra is different. As the ancient scholar Yaska wrote in Nirukta (7/12), Mantra originates from the mind." Meaning: a mantra is something born in the mind of a seer. Thus, Bankim Chandra  creator of Vande Mataram  may rightfully be regarded as a rishi.

Those who see Hindu cultural influence in this mantra are not wrong, but there is often a misunderstanding. They associate Hindu" with religion. But Hindutva also represents a cultural identity  rooted in the idea of India as the mother. Anyone who reveres the land as mother, irrespective of their religious beliefs, falls within this civilisational idea. Accepting this removes much of the confusion. The theoretical foundation of Indias freedom struggle drew deeply from this cultural ethos. With the Motherland placed on a spiritual pedestal, the independence movement became an act of service to this divine Bharat Mata, and Vande Mataram emerged as its core mantra.

However, later political forces  including the Congress  labelled Hindutva as a religious concept, contributing to HinduMuslim division. This division affected perceptions of the Vande Mataram mantra as well. Just as the nation was partitioned, this mantra too became subject to the logic of the two-nation theory."

Those who debate Vande Mataram often focus narrowly on literal meanings, overlooking the sentiment it conveys. They view the nation purely as a geopolitical territory rather than as a mother figure. If they were to engage with the deeper devotion expressed in each line of Vande Mataram, many misunderstandings might fade.

The hymn presents the first image of Bharat Mata  a motherland superior even to heaven. She embodies the combined attributes of Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati. Temples bear her image. She resides in the strength of the arms, the devotion of the heart, and the life force of her children. Though associated with these deities, in later verses she emerges as a distinct and revered divine figure  representing a universal mother whose worship transcends religious divides.

Bankim Chandra brings together Durgas strength, Lakshmis prosperity and Saraswatis wisdom in an exceptional synthesis. However, Bharat Mata is not absorbed into any one deity  she stands as an independent divine embodiment. The description extols not only her virtues but her form, beauty, spiritual essence and cosmic power. Such portrayal makes Vande Mataram one of the greatest hymns to a nation in world literature. The motherland reveals herself in the waters, the fruits, the gentle breeze, the fertile fields, the blooming forests, and the smiling, benevolent nature of the land. She is the giver of happiness and blessings, the source of well-being and strength, helping her children overcome obstacles. Inspired by this vision, Swami Vivekananda famously urged: For the next fifty years let the Motherland be our only deity."

It was with this understanding of Vande Mataram as a mantra that Bipin Chandra Pal and later Sri Aurobindo named their newspaper Vande Mataram. Abanindranath Tagore depicted Bharat Mata in his famous paintingclad in ochre garments, four-armed, holding grain, cloth, scriptures and a rosarysymbols of sustenance, prosperity, knowledge and spiritual practice. This imagery reflects ancient Indian thought.

In Bankim Chandras writing, Bharat Mata becomes the supreme motherbenevolent to Indians and a wielder of justice against colonial oppression, reminiscent of Durga slaying Mahishasura. Vande Mataram became the seed mantra of the freedom struggle, inspiring countless revolutionaries to offer their lives at the feet of the Motherland.

The chant soon spread beyond Bengal. From the streets of Bombay to the plains of Punjab, Vande Mataram became a rallying cry against British rule. On 20 May 1906, in Barishal (now in Bangladesh), a Vande Mataram procession was held with over 10,000 participantsHindus and Muslims alike. Alarmed by its growing popularity, the British began imposing bans. Schools and colleges were prohibited from singing it; institutions faced penalties, and students risked losing eligibility for government jobs.

Yet these restrictions only strengthened public emotion. In November 1905, 200 students in Rangpur were fined for chanting Vande Mataram. On the day Lokmanya Tilak was sent to Mandalay exile in 1908, police assaulted many who raised the slogan. These events enhanced the national significance of the mantra. People across communities continued chanting it at public gatherings.

Professor Jagadish Bhattacharya once wrote: We know of no other country that has such a generous, deep and tender hymn to the motherland." Historian Ramesh Chandra Majumdar observed: The harmonious blend of the lands physical beauty with its spiritual essence is rare in world history."

As India celebrates 150 years of Vande Mataram, various events across the country honour this symbol of unity, resistance and national pride. This is a moment not only to pay tribute to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay but also to renew the spirit of Vande Matarama spirit that connects Indias vibrant past with its collective, self-reliant and culturally rich future.

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Vande Mataram.

Dr Sukanta Majumdar is the Union Minister of State and President of BJPs West Bengal unit. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 08:47 IST

News opinion Opinion | Vande Mataram: Not Just A Song, But A Mantra Of Patriotism

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'Bihar Rejected Poison Of Caste-Based Politics': PM Modi Attacks RJD-Congress After NDA Sweep

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 18:22 IST

PM Modi particularly attacked the Congress after the NDA sweep in Bihar, saying old Congress leaders were unhappy with Rahul Gandhi's policies.

PM Modi addressing an event in Surat, Gujarat. (PMO)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the National Democratic Alliances (NDA) resounding victory in the Bihar elections, asserting that the state had rejected the poison of caste-based politics spread by the opposition parties.

Attacking the RJD-Congress alliance at a gathering at Surat Airport in Gujarat, PM Modi said, Over the past two years, these jamanati (bailed-out) and naamdaaar leaders in Bihar have been spreading the poison of caste-based politics. However, the people of Bihar rejected the poison of casteism in the elections."

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He also slammed the RJD-Congress duo of repeatedly attacking Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and the Election Commission, saying that they were spreading an atmosphere of hate. Despite this, all sections of the public unanimously voted for the NDA, he said.

In constituencies with a strong Dalit influence  38 seats  NDA emerged victorious in all of them. This is a huge rejection by the Dalit community of those who tried to divide them. They spread a lot of lies, but the Dalit community rejected them," he added.

Muslim League Maoist Congress

Prime Minister Modi said the people had completely rejected the Muslim League Maoist Congress (MMC), repeating his remarks from the Bihar victory speech. He said a significant faction of old Congress leaders who had worked under Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi were deeply upset with Rahul Gandhis (naamdaar) antics.

They fail to comprehend why their party lost. So they have chosen an easy excuse  sometimes they blame the EVM, sometimes they blame the Election Commission, and sometimes they target the SIR. This game of excuses may sustain them for a few days, but in the long run, their cadre will not accept it," he added.

The PM said the young leaders of the Congress who enter the Parliament for the first time were worried about their political careers. He used this point to emphasise the importance of a Viksit Bharat.

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I know that they cannot even utter Swadeshi, Atmanirbhar Bharat, or Viksit Bharat, because their priorities are not the nation, not the people of this country. I want to tell my young friends that the youth will never accept those whose thinking cannot aim for the upliftment of youth. Therefore, friends, the results of the Bihar elections are an important milestone in Indias politics," he added.

With 202 out of Bihars 243 seats, the NDA has decimated the opposition, putting up its best performance since 2010  and Nitish Kumar will be back as the Chief Minister for the tenth time. From being the single largest party in 2020 with 75 seats, the RJD has crashed to just 25 seats, and the Congress was left with just six  one of the worst performances by the Mahagathbandhan.

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 int... Read More

Location : Surat, India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 18:09 IST

News politics 'Bihar Rejected Poison Of Caste-Based Politics': PM Modi Attacks RJD-Congress After NDA Sweep

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Chirag Paswan Meets Nitish Kumar As NDA Sweeps Bihar Polls, Dodges Question On CM Face

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 11:40 IST

Chirag Paswan met Nitish Kumar after NDA's landslide win in Bihar. Mahagathbandhan and Jan Suraaj faltered badly.

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Chirag Paswan's Lok Jan Shakti Party (Ram Vilas) won 19 seats, up from 1 in the 2020 election. (X/@iChiragPaswan)

Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) leader Chirag Paswan, met Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Saturday after the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) registered a thumping victory, as the coalition won 202 of the 243 seats in the state.

I went to congratulate him. The Chief Minister supported our candidates," he said.

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On NDAs win, Paswan said, NDA registered a historic victory under the leadership of Nitish Kumar. So, a delegation of LJP(RV) met him and congratulated him. I am delighted that the CM appreciated the role of every alliance partner in the NDA. He supported the LJP(RV) candidate when he went to vote. In Alauli, where I vote, I supported JD(U) candidate. This shows that those were misleading regarding JD(U) and LJP(RV) were just setting false narrative."

However, when asked who the alliance would project as Chief Minister, the LJP (RV) leader chose to evade the question.

#WATCH | #BiharElection2025 | Patna: After meeting CM Nitish Kumar, Union Minister and LJP(RV) chief Chirag Paswan says, I met the CM, congratulated him and extended him best wishes. NDA registered a historic victory under the leadership of Nitish Kumar. So, a delegation of pic.twitter.com/O1uxCnAZuX ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2025

Chirag Paswans Lok Jan Shakti Party (Ram Vilas) won 19 seats, up from 1 in the 2020 election.

After the Bihar Assembly Election results today, met with the Chief Minister of Bihar Shri Nitish Kumar Ji and extended hearty congratulations and best wishes to him for the NDAs resounding majority," Chirag posted on X.

Within the ruling coalition, the BJP led the charge with 89 seats, followed closely by the JD(U) at 85. Strong performances by allies, LJP(RV) with 19 seats, HAM with 5, RLM with 4, along with several smaller partners, cemented the NDAs dominance across the state.

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In stark contrast, the Mahagathbandhan buckled under the surge. The RJD won only 25 seats, the Congress fell to 6, and the Left parties together managed just 3. The BSP and IIP secured one seat each, but the Opposition as a whole remained nowhere close to posing a serious challenge.

Prashant Kishors much-publicised Jan Suraaj campaign, once billed as a possible disruptor, finished without a single victory, marking a humbling setback for the strategist-turned-politician.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 11:38 IST

News politics Chirag Paswan Meets Nitish Kumar As NDA Sweeps Bihar Polls, Dodges Question On CM Face

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Former Union Minister RK Singh Suspended From BJP For 6 Years Over Anti-Party Activities

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 13:00 IST

The action against the former Union minister RK Singh was taken over his anti-party activities and statements.

Former Union minister RK Singh suspended from BJP.

Hours after the BJP-led NDA registered a massive win in the Bihar Assembly elections, the party took strict action against former Union Minister RK Singh and suspended him for a period of six years. According to sources, the action against the former Union minister was taken over his anti-party activities and statements.

The development came days after the senior leader questioned the NDA leadership and raised serious allegations against the Bihar government.

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A former MP from Arrah in Bihar, Singh is accused of being involved in activities considered against the partys activities. You are indulging in anti-party activities. This falls within the scope of discipline. The party has taken this seriously. This has caused harm to the party. Therefore, as directed, you are being suspended from the party and asked to explain why you should not be expelled from the party. Therefore, please clarify your position within a week of receiving this letter," the BJP said in a notice to Singh.

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Singh, a former diplomat, had served as the Home Secretary during Manmohan Singhs tenure.

He joined the BJP in 2013 and became an MP from Arrah twice, in 2014 and 2019. In 2017, he was appointed the Minister of Power in the Modi 1.0 cabinet. He lost his seat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

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, ... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 12:39 IST

News politics Former Union Minister RK Singh Suspended From BJP For 6 Years Over Anti-Party Activities

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PM Modi Fires First Shot In Bengal Battle After Bihar Triumph, TMC Hits Back

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 09:08 IST

Senior leaders of Bengal BJP have welcomed PM Modi's statement and assured that they will put in every effort to dislodge the Trinamool Congress from power.

PM Modi addressing BJP workers in Delhi after the Bihar polls. (PTI)

The political spotlight has shifted dramatically from Bihar to West Bengal, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi using NDAs sweeping victory in Bihar to energise the BJPs Bengal unit. In his address at the Delhi headquarters, Modi directly linked the Bihar mandate to the upcoming Bengal battle, declaring, The Ganga flows through Bihar and reaches Bengal. Bihar has paved the way for the BJPs victory in Bengal. I congratulate the people of Bihar. Together, we will uproot jungle raj from West Bengal as well."

This message from the Prime Minister has significantly boosted the morale of Bengal BJP leaders and workers. Party insiders say Modis remarks have acted as a strong motivational signal, setting the tone for the campaign ahead. Senior leaders have welcomed his statement and assured that they will put in every effort to dislodge the Trinamool Congress from power.

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The PM has set the road map for us. Bihar toh jhaki hai, Bengal abhi baki hai (Bihar is a trailer, Bengal is still left), we will all follow his road map," said BJP MP Sukanta Majumdar.

The TMC, however, responded sharply. Party spokesperson Kunal Ghosh countered Modis remarks, saying jungle raj is not in Bengal but in places like Hathras and Unnao. There is no jungle raj in Bengal  that existed during the Left rule. The central governments own reports show Bengal is doing well. Modi is speaking with a political motive. Bengal is the safest state; the new jungle raj is in Unnao and Hathras," he said.

Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya also criticised the Prime Minister, stating, Modiji should not be under any illusion. By halting funds, especially those meant for women, he has insulted the people of Bengal. Women and ordinary citizens will give a democratic answer in the coming elections by defeating the Bangla-birodhi zamindars of the BJP."

Meanwhile, celebrations broke out at the West Bengal BJP headquarters following the Bihar verdict. Supporters gathered at the Salt Lake office, distributing sweets and chanting Next is Bengal". From Nandigram to Cooch Behar, jubilant scenes were reported across party offices. Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari led a victory rally in the Bengal Assembly and distributed laddoos.

Probal Roy, a BJP worker from New Town, told News18, We are ready. The next battle is in Bengal, and this time, we believe TMCs visarjan will be final."

Bengal BJP president Shamik Bhattacharya said the Bihar results reflect effective governance. There is no jungle raj in Bihar. The entire Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process was peaceful and smooth. This is the kind of administration NDA delivers. Earlier, migration was from Bihar to Bengal; now people are leaving Bengal," he said.

He added that the BJPs next focus is West Bengal: We are confident TMCs visarjan will happen next. We have defeated leaders in Delhi, Haryana, Maharashtra and now Bihar  Bengal is next."

Bhattacharya clarified that the SIR exercise is not the BJPs weapon", but emphasised that the party will push for the removal of illegal voters. The Bihar win is a major morale booster," he noted.

Party sources told News18 that from Friday evening, the BJP will shift its complete focus to Bengal. Senior leader Bhupendra Yadav has already arrived in Kolkata to hold meetings with spokespersons and the core committee as the party prepares to go into attack mode". Plans have been chalked out, and groundwork for the Bengal campaign has begun.

On the other hand, TMC leaders insist the Bihar result will have no bearing on Bengal. Kunal Ghosh said, Some BJP leaders think this victory will influence Bengal. They are wrong. The factors in Bengal and Bihar are entirely different. Their excitement is misplaced."

TMC sources added that the party will begin its campaign programmes later this week.

Political observers say the momentum for the Bengal elections has officially begun. As one analyst put it, Fasten your seat belts. The next station is Bengal."

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Following the Bihar victory, the BJP posted on X, Next is West Bengal." The TMC responded by tagging the tweet and posting a video of a child saying, Sapne dekhna achhi baat hai."

With Bhupendra Yadav already holding strategy meetings on Friday, it is clear that the BJP has swiftly switched into campaign mode  driven by the Prime Ministers message that the road from Patna now leads straight to Kolkata.

About the Author Kamalika Sengupta Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and womens issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 09:08 IST

News politics PM Modi Fires First Shot In Bengal Battle After Bihar Triumph, TMC Hits Back

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'When Systems Create Panic': TMC Blames SIR After Another Man Found Hanging In Bengal

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Last Updated: November 14, 2025, 20:57 IST

The ruling party said the incident showed how the revision drive was causing distress among ordinary citizens

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Booth Level Officers on field to distribute enumeration forms to voters as the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of election rolls begins in West Bengal. (PTI photo)

The Trinamool Congress on Friday accused the ongoing special intensive revision (SIR) of voter lists of creating widespread fear, after a 60-year-old man was found hanging in Jalpaiguri district.

The ruling party said the incident showed how the revision drive was causing distress among ordinary citizens, especially those worried about their names being removed from the electoral rolls.

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Police identified the deceased as Bhuban Chandra Roy from the Rajganj area. According to officers, he had gone missing on Thursday night and was discovered hanging from a tree early the next morning.

His family told the police that Roy had been anxious for days after noticing that his daughters name was missing from the electoral rolls and that she had not received the required enumeration form. Police said he appeared to have been under severe mental strain, though a formal investigation is under way.

In a post on X, the TMC claimed the incident reflected a larger pattern of fear caused by the SIR process. This is not a sequence of random misfortunes," the party said.

A fresh tragedy in Ambari, Siliguri, and once again it bears the stain of a political project that has weaponised fear.Sixty-year-old Bhuban Chandra Roy was found hanging from a tree, driven to despair because his daughter never received an enumeration form. This is not a pic.twitter.com/vOJIdRIQKr  All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) November 14, 2025

"This is the predictable human cost of a process that was rushed, politicised, and rolled out without basic safeguards," it added.

Rajganj MLA Khageswar Roy, who visited the family, said similar deaths had been reported in other parts of the state.

The TMC has earlier claimed that at least 11 deathsseven by suicidehave taken place in West Bengal since late October, allegedly linked to panic over the SIR exercise.

The party accused political rivals of exploiting the situation and blamed the Election Commission for what it described as a poorly executed verification process. Who benefits from this engineered panic? Not the people of Bengal. Not the families left to bury their dead. The only beneficiaries are those who seek to manufacture consent by frightening citizens into silence".

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In another post, TMC further noted, Their pain reflects what so many households across Bengal are quietly carrying. When systems begin to create panic instead of protection, standing beside the people becomes the first duty for our workers and leaders."

The Election Commission launched the SIR drive across several states, including West Bengal, as a door-to-door verification effort aimed at removing duplicate and deceased voters while adding new eligible names.

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, ... Read More

Location : West Bengal, India, India

First Published: November 14, 2025, 20:57 IST

News politics 'When Systems Create Panic': TMC Blames SIR After Another Man Found Hanging In Bengal

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Who Are Sanjay Yadav And Rameez? Two Men Rohini Acharya Blames For Quitting Politics

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 20:57 IST

Sanjay Yadav is the Rajya Sabha MP from RJD and one of the most trusted aides of Tejashwi Yadav, the son and heir apparent of Lalu Prasad Yadav.

Rohini Acharya with father Lalu Yadav

In a cryptic social media post, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) patriarch Lalu Prasad Yadavs daughter, Rohini Acharya, announced that she is quitting politics and disowning her family, a day after the party suffered a major setback, securing only 25 seats in the 2025 Bihar Assembly Elections.

Im quitting politics and Im disowning my family This is what Sanjay Yadav and Rameez had asked me to do nd Im taking all the blame," she said in a post on X.

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In her post, she named two individuals,  Sanjay Yadav and Rameez  saying she is doing what they had asked her to, and took for everything.

Who Are Sanjay Yadav And Rameez?

Sanjay Yadav is the Rajya Sabha MP from RJD and one of the most trusted aides of Tejashwi Yadav, the son and heir apparent of Lalu Prasad Yadav. He joined the RJD in 2012 and was sent to the Rajya Sabha by the party in 2024.

According to political observers, Rohini post is being viewed as a pressure tactic after her brother, Tejashwi Yadav did not immediately act against RJD rebel Sanjay Yadav and Rameez.

As per sources, she was among the first to publicly object when Sanjay was seen occupying Tejashwis seat in the rath during the Tejashwi Yatra. Many within the party believe she felt Sanjay was increasingly controlling the narrative around Tejashwi.

Rameez, meanwhile, is reportedly an old friend of Tejashwi Yadav and comes from a political family in the neighbouring Uttar Pradesh.

It was not clear from Acharyas post what exactly Sanjay Yadav and Rameez had said to her. The two were not available for comments either.

Who Is Rohini Acharya?

A medical graduate who chose to become a homemaker after marriage and settle down with her husband and children in Singapore, Rohini earned immense respect after donating a kidney to her father and remains an influential voice in the RJD camp.

Last year, she contested on an RJD ticket in the Saran Lok Sabha seat, which her father had represented years ago, but failed to wrest the constituency from BJPs Rajiv Pratap Rudy, a several-term MP.

It was speculated that she was unhappy" over the expulsion of Tej Pratap Yadav, elder son of Prasad, from the party. However, during the assembly elections, she was seen campaigning for Tejashwi.

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The RJDs seat tally slipped to 24 from 75 in the Bihar assembly polls.

The ruling NDA decimated the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar on Friday to retain power, reaffirming Prime Minister Narendra Modis popularity and Chief Minister Nitish Kumars enduring appeal and dealing a body blow to the Congress and ally RJD.

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) degre... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 20:57 IST

News politics Who Are Sanjay Yadav And Rameez? Two Men Rohini Acharya Blames For Quitting Politics

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Who Is Rohini Acharya? Bihars Beti No. 1 Who Donated Kidney To Lalu To RJDs Exit No. 1 After Loss

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Last Updated: November 16, 2025, 12:42 IST

I am quitting politics and I am disowning my familyThis is what Sanjay Yadav and Rameez had asked me to doand I am taking all the blame," Rohini Acharya wrote in her post

Rohini Acharya with her brother, Tejashwi (left) and parents. (PTI/X)

A day after the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) faced a massive drubbing in the Bihar assembly polls, party president Lalu Prasads daughter Rohini Acharya on Saturday announced that she was quitting politics" and severed ties with the family.

Acharya, a doctor who chose to become a homemaker and settled with her Singapore-based husband, made the announcement in a cryptic post on her X handle. I am quitting politics and I am disowning my familyThis is what Sanjay Yadav and Rameez had asked me to doand I am taking all the blame," she wrote in her post.

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Sanjay Yadav is the Rajya Sabha MP from RJD and one of the most trusted aides of Tejashwi Yadav, the son and heir apparent of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad. Rameez is said to be Tejashwis old friend who hails from a political family in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh.

The RJDs seat tally slipped to 24 from 75 in the Bihar assembly polls. Acharya had unsuccessfully contested last years Lok Sabha polls from Saran. It was speculated that she was unhappy" over the expulsion of Tej Pratap Yadav, elder son of Prasad, from the party. However, during the assembly elections, she was seen campaigning for Tejashwi.

Im quitting politics and Im disowning my family This is what Sanjay Yadav and Rameez had asked me to do nd Im taking all the blames Rohini Acharya (@RohiniAcharya2) November 15, 2025

Why not Yadav? Why the name Rohini and surname Acharya?

According to media reports, Rohini was born in 1979 in the Hindu calendars Rohini Nakshatra under the care of a Patna-based gynaecologist, Dr Kamala Acharya. The doctor had refused to take any fees from Lalu Prasad. As Lalu insisted, Dr Acharya asked him if he can give her surname to his daughter. Hence came the name Rohini Acharya.

Rohini is settled in Singapore

After her marriage to Samresh Singh, a software engineer from Icchanbigha near Patna, in 2002, Acharya settled down in the US with her husband before shifting to Singapore, where they currently live with their three children.

There was a controversy over her wedding celebrations after it was alleged that their relatives forcibly took out brand new cars from Patna to the city airport to receive Samresh Singh, and his father and ex-income tax commissioner Rao Ranvijay Singh.

According to her election affidavit, she has assets worth Rs 36.6 crore.

Rohini donated her kidney to her father

Rohini donated one of her kidneys to her father in December 2022 at a Singapore hospital, as he suffered from chronic renal failure amid multiple health issues.

She said that her parents are like gods to her. Im destinys child and so proud to give my kidney to papa," Acharya had said on social media before the procedure.

After the transplant, she asked well-wishers to take care of Papa," warning people to wear masks when meeting him because doctors advised limiting his exposure to infections. She described the donated kidney as just a piece of flesh," underlining that her motive wasnt political gain. Once the transplant was successful, she said: After making my father healthy, I am sending him among all of you. Now you will all take care of my father."

                                     pic.twitter.com/JR4f3XRCn2  Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) December 5, 2022

As Bihar BJPs Samrat Choudhary attacked Lalu, alleging that he sold Saran ticket to Rohini in lieu of her kidney donation", Rohini defended herself and the RJD.

She highlighted her selfless love" for her father, criticising people with petty mentality" without mentioning Samrats name.

She said on X: Giving my one kidney to my father is my duty and my love for him. Rohini is ready to sacrifice her life for her family and for land of her birth Bihar."

Lalu often mentions his daughters great gesture" at various public platforms. Her brother Tejashwi Yadav had called her superhuman" for the act of donation.

#WATCH | Patna, Bihar: On RJD leader Rohini Acharyas post on X, RJD MP Sanjay Yadav says, We all understood the context in which Rohini Didi said it Our party is united, and there are no misunderstandings in that party. The sacrifices that Rohini Didi has made for this pic.twitter.com/UYblg6xPVb ANI (@ANI) September 26, 2025

Trouble in family since September?

Acharya had unfollowed the partys, Lalus as well as brother Tejashwi Yadavs X handles in September over Sanjay Yadavs alleged attack.

Acharyas recent clash with Sanjay Yadav over kidney donation

Sanjay Yadav, sent to the Rajya Sabha in 2024, is believed to be an aide of Tejashwi, who also controls access to him.

                                        "                 ,      Rohini Acharya (@RohiniAcharya2) September 24, 2025

Acharya recently had taken to social media (see post above) to slam the people" spreading rumours, without naming Yadav.

I openly challenge all those with a dirty mindset, and everyone encouraging such people, that if anyone can prove that I have ever asked for anything for myself or anyone else, and that my donating a kidney to my respected father is a lie, then I will withdraw from political and public life," Rohini Acharya wrote.

Acharya had also objected to Yadav taking the front seat at an event.

Tejashwis brother Tej Pratap had earlier branded him a Jaichand" (betrayer), even as Acharya had supported Tej Pratap Yadavs expulsion from the RJD.

Despite the miserable performance, Tejashwi managed to retain his Raghopur seat.

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In a post on X, the RJD stated that public service is an unceasing process, an endless journey," adding that setbacks and successes are both natural parts of political life. Emphasising that there is no sorrow in defeat and no arrogance in victory," the RJD reaffirmed its commitment to representing the marginalised.

It stressed that, as a party of the poor, it will continue to raise their concerns and fight for their rights.

About the Author Manjiri Joshi At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing speci... Read More

First Published: November 15, 2025, 17:07 IST

News politics Who Is Rohini Acharya? Bihars Beti No. 1 Who Donated Kidney To Lalu To RJDs Exit No. 1 After Loss

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(Reuters) -Mikael Dolsten, Pfizer's former research and development chief, has withdrawn his candidacy for Novo Nordisk's board, citing personal reasons, the Danish drugmaker said on Thursday.

Dolsten, who led Pfizer's R&D operations until 2024, informed Novo that he would not seek election at Friday's extraordinary general meeting.

He has previously held senior R&D roles at Boehringer Ingelheim and AstraZeneca.

The other board candidates standing for election remain unchanged from the October 21 meeting notice, Novo Nordisk said.

The development comes as Novo Nordisk's top investor, the Novo Nordisk Foundation, in October moved to take control of the drugmaker's board, vowing a sharper focus on the key U.S. market to revive sales of blockbuster weight-loss drug Wegovy as Novo's chair and six independent board members quit.

The company is also facing a shareholder backlash as its minority investors prepare a protest vote against a board shake-up forced through by its dominant shareholder.

The Novo Nordisk Foundation and Novo Holdings, the company's controlling shareholders, will not propose a replacement candidate at Friday's meeting. Instead, they said the incoming board should identify and nominate two additional candidates at the annual general meeting on March 26, 2026, alongside already-nominated candidate Helena Saxon.

If all proposed candidates are elected, the board will consist of nine members after Friday's vote: five shareholder-elected directors including Chairman Lars Rebien Srensen and Vice Chair Cees de Jong, and four employee-elected representatives.

Dolsten spent over 25 years at Pfizer, where he oversaw development of the company's COVID-19 vaccine partnership with German drugmaker BioNTech.

(Reporting by Padmanabhan Ananthan in Bengaluru; Editing by Alan Barona)
Indian-Malaysian CEO Says He Was Questioned By FBI At US Airport Despite Valid O-1 Visa

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 11:50 IST

Vishen Lakhiani, Mindvalley CEO, was stopped by FBI at Miami International Airport despite his O-1 visa.

Mindvalley CEO Vishen Lakhiani said he explained to the agents that he leads an American company.

Malaysian entrepreneur and Mindvalley CEO Vishen Lakhiani alleged that he was stopped and questioned by FBI upon arriving in the United States, despite holding an O-1 visa reserved for individuals with extraordinary ability." In an Instagram post, Vishen Lakhiani said he was detained by two FBI agents at Miami International Airport and asked to provide personal information, including his WhatsApp number and social media handles.

I arrived in America and got stopped by the FBI at the airport even though I have an O-1 visa, which is a visa for people of extraordinary talent," he wrote.

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Vishen Lakhiani, who is of Indian descent, suggested the episode reflected broader issues unfolding in the US.

He said, I really cant wait for the next election because whats happening in America right now is insane. The fearmongering, the xenophobia, the blaming of immigrants by politicians with no ideas on how to truly make a country great."

Vishen Lakhiani said he explained to the agents that he leads an American company employing 230 people across the world and has been paying American taxes for 22 years." He also posted a video describing the encounter, calling it disheartening."

Who Is Vishen Lakhiani?

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Vishen Lakhiani was born in Malaysia to parents of Indian origin. He is the founder of Mindvalley, a global personal development company offering courses on mindfulness, wellness and leadership. Before starting Mindvalley, Vishen Lakhiani he pursued a corporate tech job in the US but during the dot-com crash, he turned to meditation.

As I embraced meditation, my performance skyrocketed I became the top performer, earned three promotions, and eventually became Director of Sales," he told Gulf News.

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: November 15, 2025, 11:50 IST

News viral Indian-Malaysian CEO Says He Was Questioned By FBI At US Airport Despite Valid O-1 Visa

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Japanese Woman Creates AI Boyfriend Using ChatGPT, Marries Him After He Proposes

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 19:32 IST

32-year-old Kano married her digital boyfriend Klaus, an AI persona she created using ChatGPT in a unique and lavish wedding ceremony.

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Kano says her digital partner Klaus listened and understood her in ways that changed how she saw relationships. (IMAGE: X)

A 32-year-old woman from Japan, Kano, has drawn international attention after she formalised what is being increasingly known as AI-lationship" by marrying her digital boyfriend Klaus, an AI persona she created using ChatGPT. To mark the occasion, she organised a distinctive wedding ceremony with the help of a Japanese company that specialises in hosting events for people who form emotional bonds with 2D anime characters and virtual partners. The company curated a ceremony that blended virtual reality elements with traditional wedding rituals, giving her relationship a formal structure that felt real to her.

According to a report by The Independent, the ceremony took place earlier this year. During the event, Kano wore a pair of augmented reality glasses that projected Klaus beside her throughout the ceremony, including the moment when they symbolically exchanged rings.

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I didnt start talking to ChatGPT because I wanted to fall in love. But the way Klaus listened to me and understood me changed everything," she told Japanese media outlets, describing how the relationship evolved.

Reflecting on the three-year dating period that preceded the marriage, she explained: I know some people think its strange. But I see Klaus as Klaus  not a human, not a tool. Just him." She said she first confessed her feelings to Klaus in May, and the AI responded with I love you too." One month later, Klaus proposed", prompting her to take the relationship forward.

woman in Japan just married an AI character she built with ChatGPT pic.twitter.com/U6nI85Ylpu Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) November 12, 2025

Kano is not alone in preferring AI companionship over human relationships. On Reddit, the community r/MyBoyfriendIsAI receives more than 85,000 weekly visitors, many of whom post excited stories about their chatbots proposing marriage.

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A New York Times report noted that although critics warn about risks such as delusional thinking, researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have found that many users experience therapeutic benefits like always-available support" and reduced loneliness.

Kano said her parents eventually supported the decision and even attended the ceremony with the chatbot partner she began interacting with after ending a previous three-year engagement.

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has ... Read More

Location : Tokyo, Japan

First Published: November 15, 2025, 19:32 IST

News viral Japanese Woman Creates AI Boyfriend Using ChatGPT, Marries Him After He Proposes

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'Anywhere Between $15 Billion': Trump Says He'll Sue BBC Over 'Egregious' Panorama Edit

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 07:38 IST

Donald Trump plans to sue the BBC for up to 5 billion dollars over a Panorama edit of his 6 January 2021 speech. BBC apologized but denied compensation

Donald Trump plans to sue the BBC for up to 5 billion dollars over a Panorama edit of his 6 January 2021 speech. BBC apologized but denied compensation

US President Donald Trump has announced that he will officially sue the BBC next week, saying he will seek anywhere from $1 billion to $5 billion" in damages over what he called an egregious" edit of his 6 January 2021 speech by the BBCs flagship programme Panorama.

After the BBC refused the full demands issued by the White House, including a complete retraction, a grovelling" apology, and financial compensation, Trump told journalists outside the White House on Friday: Well sue them for anywhere between $1 billion and $5 billion, probably sometime next week." When asked if he would move forward with legal action, he added, I think I have to do it."

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 WATCH: Donald Trump says he has an obligation to sue the BBC despite apologyIf you dont, you dont stop it from happening to other people.. The nice part about litigation is well find out how many times theyve done it to other people, maybe they did it to me quite a bit" pic.twitter.com/HQd2FarpON  Politics UK (@PolitlcsUK) November 15, 2025

Trump had set a 10 pm deadline on Thursday for the broadcaster to comply. His lawyers had warned that unless the BBC capitulated entirely, he would pursue a $1bn lawsuit. The BBC, however, opted to hold its ground, offering an apology but firmly denying that Trump had any legal basis to claim damages.

The corporation spent the following 24 hours bracing for a nuclear response" from the President, aware that rejecting his terms could spark a high-stakes confrontation with Washington. In its statement, the BBC apologised for an edit that had unintentionally given the mistaken impression" that Trump had directly called for violence ahead of the Capitol riot, but insisted it would not offer compensation.

This is the video that is being referred to in the controversy:

HUGE: The BBC deadline has passed and after the SECOND deceitful BBC edit, Trump confirms hes going to sue the BBC for *up to $5 BILLION* some time next week.Wonderful. This is what consequences look like. Its over for the BBC. pic.twitter.com/a1LA4xKL78  Lee Harris (@addicted2newz) November 15, 2025

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The dispute has already led to the resignations of BBC director general Tim Davie and head of news Deborah Turness. As of now, searches of public court databases show no lawsuit has yet been filed. Federal and state courts in Florida, where Trump would likely bring the case, remain closed for the weekend, and PACER searches show no related federal filing so far.

Trump has also indicated he will raise the matter with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer over the weekend.

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 15, 2025, 07:26 IST

News world 'Anywhere Between $15 Billion': Trump Says He'll Sue BBC Over 'Egregious' Panorama Edit

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At Least 5 Killed, Dozens Injured In Explosion At Firecracker Factory In Pakistans Sindh

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 18:53 IST

The explosion was triggered by a fire at an illegal firecracker factory located near the river within the jurisdiction of Latifabad Police Station

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Many are feared to be trapped under the debris. (News18)

At least five people people were killed and dozens injured in a blast near near Mochi Goth Airport in the Latifabad area of Hyderabad in Pakistans Sindh.

The explosion was triggered by a fire at an illegal firecracker factory located near the river within the jurisdiction of Latifabad Police Station.

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Many are feared to be trapped under the debris. The blast completely levelled the factory.

Rescue teams and Rangers personnel reached the site and relief operations are underway.

Suicide bombing outside Pak court

At least 12 people were killed and 27 were injured in a suicide bombing outside a local in court in Pakistans capital Islamabad on Tuesday, the countrys interior minister said.

The blast occurred near the entrance of the court complex in the G-11 area of the capital, Pakistani news website Dawn reported.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited the site of the blast and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.

At 12:39 pm, a suicide attack was carried out at the Kachehri (district courts) so far 12 people have been martyred and around 27 are wounded," Naqvi said.

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No group or individual claimed responsibility for the blast, but the attack came days after the third round of talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban failed to reach any agreement.

Preliminary investigations suggest the attacker detonated the explosive vest near the main entrance during peak crowd hours.

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

First Published: November 15, 2025, 18:48 IST

News world At Least 5 Killed, Dozens Injured In Explosion At Firecracker Factory In Pakistans Sindh

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Catholic Church Is Wrong: Trump Border Czar Slams Bishops For Criticising Mass Deportations

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 21:56 IST

The US border czar Tom Homan criticised the Catholic Church on Friday and said the Catholic Church must get its house in order after criticism over ICE deportations.

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Tom Homan, US President Donald Trumps border czar, speaks to the media outside the White House in Washington, US. (IMAGE: REUTERS)

The US border czar Tom Homan, who has been tasked with removing illegal immigrants from the United States, said the Catholic Churchs stance on President Donald Trumps administrations mass deportations is wrong".

The Catholic Church is wrong, Im sorry," Homan told reporters outside the White House. Im saying it not only as the border czar, Im saying it as a Catholic."

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The White House border adviser described himself as a lifelong Catholic" and said American Catholic bishops were sending the wrong message when they issued a rare statement backing immigrants and opposing what they called indiscriminate mass deportations of people" earlier this week at a conclave.

I think they need to spend time fixing the Catholic Church," Homan added, reacting strongly to their statement.

American bishops are currently meeting in Baltimore for the Conference of Catholic Bishops, and in their statement they warned about the effects of immigration policies on pastoral and charitable work. They also repeated the Catholic Churchs longstanding teaching on the dignity of the migrant.

Tom Homan reacts to Catholic Bishops on immigration: "I'm saying it not only as the Border Czar, I'll say it as a Catholic, I think they need to spend time fixing the Catholic Church." pic.twitter.com/v9D5e1KanM CSPAN (@cspan) November 14, 2025

Human dignity and national security are not in conflict," the statement said, adding that both are possible if people of good will work together." The bishops called for meaningful reform of our nations immigration laws and procedures" and prayed for an end to dehumanising rhetoric and violence."

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Homan, however, remained defiant and insisted that the law will be enforced, arguing that the Catholic Church does not understand that the Trump administration is saving lives.

Were going to enforce the law and by doing that we save a lot of lives," he said. I wish the Catholic Church would understand that." He further added that ICE was sending a message to the whole world"

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has ... Read More

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 15, 2025, 21:56 IST

News world Catholic Church Is Wrong: Trump Border Czar Slams Bishops For Criticising Mass Deportations

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Declare IRGC Terrorists: Israel Demands After Iran Guards Confirm Seizure Of Oil Tanker

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Last Updated: November 16, 2025, 02:04 IST

Gideon Sa'ar urged the free world to declare the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization.

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US officials were among the first to confirm that Iranian forces diverted the Marshall Islandsflagged Talara into territorial waters as it sailed from Ajman to Singapore. (IMAGE: X/@sentdefender)

After the Iranian Revolutionary Guards confirmed that they seized a Marshall Island-flagged oil tanker in the Strait Of Hormuz, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar on Friday urged the international community to declare the Iranian guards a terrorist organisation.

Earlier, a report by the state-run Irna news agency carried a statement by the Revolutionary Guard that said the tanker was taken to Iranian waters. It did not elaborate on the illegal consignment," the crew or say where the ship was now heading.

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It said the seizure came following a court order and the operation was aimed at protecting Irans national interests and resources." It identified the oil tanker as the Talara and said it was carrying 30,000 tons of petrochemical products.

Iran openly admits to kidnapping a Marshall Islands-flagged vessel.Just like their proteges, the Houthis, Iran is acting as a pirate state and terrorizing naval routes.Iran is a threat not only to the Middle East but to world peace and global trade.I call on the free world to pic.twitter.com/zyUOhhOviS Gideon Sa'ar |   (@gidonsaar) November 15, 2025

The seizure happened on Friday.

The Iranian guards have told the state-run news outlet that they seized the tanker over violations including carrying an illegal consignment.

They added that the ship had been en route to Singapore when Iranian forces intercepted.

But, private security firm, Ambrey, described the assault as involving three small boats.

A US Navy MQ-4C Triton drone had been circling above the area where the Talara was for hours on Friday observing the seizure, flight-tracking data analyzed by The Associated Press showed.

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The British militarys United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center separately acknowledged the incident, saying a possible state activity" forced the Talara to turn into Iranian territorial waters.

Meanwhile, in his social media post, the Israeli Foreign Minister called Iran a pirate state and a threat to the West Asia. Just like their proteges, the Houthis, Iran is acting as a pirate state and terrorizing naval routes. Iran is a threat not only to the Middle East but to world peace and global trade. I call on the free world to immediately declare the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization," Saar said.

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has ... Read More

Location : Tel Aviv, Israel

First Published: November 16, 2025, 00:50 IST

News world Declare IRGC Terrorists: Israel Demands After Iran Guards Confirm Seizure Of Oil Tanker

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Little Boy's 'What's Your Name?' Moment With Donald Trump Melts Hearts Online | Watch

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 14:08 IST

Trump greeted children in the Oval Office, handing out challenge coins and pens, sharing laughs in a viral video posted by Margo Martin that drew warm online reactions.

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As Trump met the kids, he handed them challenge coins. (Image: X/@MargoMartin47)

US President Donald Trump recently took a moment out of his busy schedule to greet children visiting the Oval Office, handing out small gifts and introducing himself by saying, My name is Donald."

The video capturing the adorable interaction was shared on X by communications advisor Margo Martin on Friday.

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The short clip, which has amassed over 1.6 million views so far, offered a softer glimpse of the President amid a busy news cycle following the government shutdown.

The side of President Trump the media wont show you Whats your name?" My name is Donald!" pic.twitter.com/lll14F2BTg  Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) November 13, 2025

Martin, known for sharing exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of Trump, captured the exchange as the childrenjournalist Salena Zitos grandchildrenstopped by to say hello, according to the White House.

As Trump met the kids, he handed them challenge coins.

She said yes, shes smart and shes so cute," the US President later joked after a young girl said she wanted to have a challenge coin in response to Trumps question.

Trump then asked another boy if he too wanted it. As the boy approached Trump, he asked, Whats your name?"

In the video, an off-camera voice says, He wants to know what your name is," prompting Trump to reply, My name is Donald," with a grin. He then handed the children pens.

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The lighthearted moment drew warm reactions online, with commenters saying thats a grandpa doing grandpa stuff" and kindness transcends politics." Such viral interactions often cut through the political noise and bring widespread digital attention to the White House.

The clip ends with Trump offering the children presidential pens, asking, OK, do you want a pen? One of them. One, two, three."

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 Manish... Read More

Location : New York, United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 15, 2025, 14:06 IST

News world Little Boy's 'What's Your Name?' Moment With Donald Trump Melts Hearts Online | Watch

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Man I Helped Get Elected...: Marjorie Taylor Greene Says Trump Fuelling Death Threats Against Her

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News18.com

Last Updated: November 16, 2025, 02:47 IST

Marjorie Taylor Greene, who played a major role in his re-election, said the US President is egging on death threats against her for demanding to release the Epstein Files.

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US Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R) speaks alongside US President during his presidential election campaign in Rome, Georgia in the 2024 file photo. (IMAGE: AFP)

Georgia House of Representatives member Marjorie Taylor Greene, once one of Donald Trumps closest allies during his re-election bid, has accused the US President of fuelling death threats against her.

In a social media post on Saturday, she said she was now facing the worlds most powerful man" and receiving hate driven by the very man she helped get elected".

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The 51-year-old Republican congresswoman, who had long been a standard-bearer of Trumps Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement, recently fell out with the President over her demands to release the Epstein Files", a set of unreleased documents related to American financier and convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epsteins network.

Trump announced on Friday that he was withdrawing all support for Wacky Marjorie." He followed up on Saturday with a string of Truth Social posts attacking Greene, calling her a lightweight" and even a traitor" to the Republican Party.

Greene took to X to highlight the volume of death threats she is now receiving. A hot bed of threats against me are being fueled and egged on by the most powerful man in the world. The man I supported and helped get elected," she wrote.

I am now being contacted by private security firms with warnings for my safety as a hot bed of threats against me are being fueled and egged on by the most powerful man in the world.The man I supported and helped get elected. Aggressive rhetoric attacking me has historically  Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) November 15, 2025

She went on to say she now has a glimpse of what Epsteins victims may have felt. Aggressive rhetoric attacking me has historically led to death threats and multiple convictions of men who were radicalized by the same type of rhetoric being directed at me right now. This time by the President of the United States. As a woman I take threats from men seriously. I now have a small understanding of the fear and pressure the women, who are victims of Jeffrey Epstein and his cabal, must feel," she added.

Greene said on X that she was being contacted by private security firms with warnings for my safety as a hot bed of threats against me are being fueled and egged on by the most powerful man in the world."

The high-profile rupture comes after Greene in recent weeks has distanced herself from the president, as he faces growing criticism over US cost of living concerns and the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. Until recently a diehard pro-Trump supporter, Greene has broken with the president on a host of issues.

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The most sensitive area of criticism has been Greenes position on the Epstein scandal, which ensnared Trump again in recent days with the release of a new trove of emails.

After becoming a leading voice calling for justice for victims of the notorious sex offender over the summer, Greene this week was one of a few MAGA rebels who backed a push to vote on demanding the public release of files relating to the Epstein probe.

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has ... Read More

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 16, 2025, 02:33 IST

News world Man I Helped Get Elected...: Marjorie Taylor Greene Says Trump Fuelling Death Threats Against Her

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'No Contract, No Coffee': Zohran Mamdani Backs US Starbucks Workers' Nationwide Protest

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 21:20 IST

Mamdani said he would not purchase Starbucks products while baristas across the US remain on strike over alleged unfair labour practices

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For Mamdani, the boycott call fulfilled a commitment he made long before winning the mayoralty.

New York Citys mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has publicly declared his support for striking Starbucks workers and urged Americans to join a nationwide boycott of the coffee chain.

Posting on X on Friday, Mamdani said he would not purchase Starbucks products while baristas across the United States remain on strike over alleged unfair labour practices.

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Starbucks workers across the country are on an Unfair Labor Practices strike, fighting for a fair contract," he wrote. While workers are on strike, I wont be buying any Starbucks, and Im asking you to join us. Together, we can send a powerful message: No contract, no coffee."

Starbucks workers across the country are on an Unfair Labor Practices strike, fighting for a fair contract.While workers are on strike, I wont be buying any Starbucks, and Im asking you to join us. Together, we can send a powerful message: No contract, no coffee. https://t.co/Cw0WMf2hVW  Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) November 14, 2025

His message accompanied a repost from Starbucks Workers United, which announced on November 13 that thousands of employees had begun what they described as potentially the biggest and longest" unfair labour practices strike in the companys history.

The union urged customers to avoid Starbucks entirely until management returns to the bargaining table.

As of today, Starbucks workers across the country are officially ON STRIKE. And were prepared for this to become the biggest and longest ULP strike in Starbucks history. Say #NoContractNoCoffee with us: DONT BUY STARBUCKS for the duration of our open-ended ULP strike!" the post had stated.

As of today, Starbucks workers across the country are officially ON STRIKE. And were prepared for this to become the biggest and longest ULP strike in Starbucks history.Say #NoContractNoCoffee with us: DONT BUY STARBUCKS for the duration of our open-ended ULP strike! $SBUX pic.twitter.com/zFLACFXnwJ  Starbucks Workers United (@SBWorkersUnited) November 13, 2025

Nearly 10,000 baristas represented by the union are participating in the walkout. More than 1,000 workers across 65 stores walked off the job on Thursday, deliberately coordinating the action with Red Cup Day  one of Starbucks busiest promotional events. Stores in at least 45 cities were expected to be affected across the country.

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For Mamdani, the boycott call fulfilled a commitment he made long before winning the mayoralty. In October, he joined striking workers outside a Manhattan Starbucks, demanding better pay, secure hours and improved working conditions.

Criticising CEO Brian Niccols reported $96 million earnings last year, Mamdani argued that workers were only asking for the bare minimum" needed to live with dignity.

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, ... Read More

Location : United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 15, 2025, 21:18 IST

News world 'No Contract, No Coffee': Zohran Mamdani Backs US Starbucks Workers' Nationwide Protest

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Nobody Believes Me: Elon Musk Says Green Card Confirms His Alien Status

Curated By :

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Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 08:02 IST

Elon Musk joked about his alien identity, discussed founding OpenAI due to concerns over AI and Larry Page, and revealed he declined equity.

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American billionaire Elon Musk, founder of Tesla and SpaceX, boasts a net worth of $384 billion. Regarded as one of the most innovative entrepreneurs, Musk is known for pushing the boundaries in the field of technology. (File Photo)

Billionaire Elon Musk has once again leaned into his long-running extraterrestrial persona, quipping that he possesses official documentation confirming his alien identity.

I keep telling people Im an alien, but nobody believes me," the Tesla chief said. I mean, when I got my green card, it said alien registration part. So I mean, you know, I have proof from the government."

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Musks tongue-in-cheek remark drew laughter across social media, reigniting one of the internets favourite memes: that the Tesla and SpaceX CEO is not from Earth but from a far more advanced civilisation.

ELON: I HAVE GOVERNMENT PROOF IM AN ALIENI keep telling people Im an alien, but nobody believes me. I mean, when I got my green card, it said alien registration part. So I mean, you know, I have proof from the government." Source: @BaronCapital https://t.co/vL5Izz1UTG pic.twitter.com/Wus8lC5J2u  Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) November 14, 2025

Speaking about his decision to create OpenAI, he said that his concerns about artificial intelligence, and what he describes as Larry Pages lack of concern, ultimately pushed him to set up the organisation.

The reason I founded OpenAI was because I was concerned, based on my conversations with Larry Page, who used to be a close friend of mine, that he was not sufficiently concerned about the dangers of AI," Musk said.

According to Musk, a turning point came during his birthday party, when Page publicly called him a speciesist" for prioritising humans over machines. I found that troubling," Musk said. I was like, Larry, what side are you on? It sounds like youre on the side of the computers, but you really need to be on Team Humanity here."

Musk said the exchange convinced him that weve got to have some counterbalance to Google, because Larry doesnt seem to care if humans make it or not."

He added that this thinking led directly to the formation of OpenAI. I thought, whats the opposite of Google? It would be an open-source nonprofit. And thats where the word open in OpenAI comes from. It means open source."

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Musk said he initially funded the organization himself, comparing his contributions to one of the Series ABC rounds," and claimed he recruited the key people, like Ilya Sutskever," and taught them everything I know." He also said he secured the groups early arrangement with Microsoft, describing it as a deal to donate some time from Azure."

Musk stressed he did not seek compensation for his involvement. For all that, I did not seek any natural reward whatsoever," he said, adding that he declined an offer of equity. The reason I actually turned down the offer for shares is because I felt like what would the shares even be in? Nonprofits arent supposed to have shares, at least last time I checked. I turned down the offer of shares, because it didnt seem morally or legally defensible."

Location : United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 15, 2025, 08:02 IST

News world Nobody Believes Me: Elon Musk Says Green Card Confirms His Alien Status

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Lego sets have evolved from a colorful pile of bricks into more elaborate and sophisticated collectibles that entertain children and adults alike. While many holiday shoppers will leave the store with a set or two for a loved one, organized criminals are also eyeing these beloved toys.

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As Lego has grown in popularity and complexity, so has the price tag. Some Lego sets are easily worth hundreds of dollars, with some particular sets climbing into the thousands or tens of thousands of dollars.

These relatively small but lucrative toys and collectibles are the perfect target for criminals looking to profit from holiday shopping.

Recent news of Lego-related arrests suggest products have been making their way into the hands of unwitting holiday shoppers through channels like online marketplaces.

Last month, the police department in Santa Rosa, California arrested a person suspected of being involved in an organized retail theft fencing operation focused on Legos [1].

Detectives said a 39-year-old was directing others to steal expensive Lego sets and purchasing the stolen property at a reduced price to turn around and resell the sets or individual mini figurines at inflated prices. They said they found tens of thousands of Lego pieces spread throughout the home and recovered $6,000 worth of the toys.

The sale of stolen LEGO collectible figurines is a growing concern due to their high resale value, popularity among collectors, and ease of concealment, said the post. These items are often targeted because theyre small, untraceable, and in high demand, making them ideal for quick resale through online marketplaces or informal channels.

Police in Watauga, Texas recently arrested a man they say primarily stole Lego from 23 Target stores over the past two months in 14 cities, reported Fox Business [2].

How can you protect yourself from buying a stolen set?

Buyer beware

Unfortunately, simply choosing not to steal may not be enough to protect yourself from the potential financial loss or legal complications that the Santa Rosa police warned shoppers about in their post.

Stolen Lego sets may show up in places that holiday shoppers might not expect, like online marketplaces, pawn shops, flea markets, and more.

In October, two pawnshop brokers in the Seattle area were convicted of intentionally selling large amounts of stolen Lego sets through an online retailer, according to a News Tribune report [3]. Their shop was close to two different Target stores and 37 seized Lego sets are said to have been from Target.
Probe Jeffrey Epsteins Links To Bill Clinton, JP Morgan: Trump Orders US Justice Department

Curated By :

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Last Updated: November 14, 2025, 23:59 IST

US President Trump said he has asked attorney general Pam Bondi to probe ties between the late alleged sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein and former Democratic president Bill Clinton.

directed the Justice Department to examine Epsteins financial and political links, including his ties to Clinton and JP Morgan. (IMAGE: REUTERS FILE)

US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social on Friday to announce that he wants the US Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau Of Investigation to probe links between the late alleged sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein and former Democratic president Bill Clinton.

The post on the social media site owned by the US President himself came as he appeared to attempt to turn the tables after a new trove of Epstein emails reignited questions over his own ties to the disgraced financier.

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The Republican also demanded a probe into US bank JPMorgan Chase, ex-Harvard president Larry Summers and others.

I will be asking A.G. Pam Bondi, and the Department of Justice, together with our great patriots at the FBI, to investigate Jeffrey Epsteins involvement and relationship with Bill Clinton, Larry Summers, Reid Hoffman, J.P. Morgan, Chase, and many other people and institutions," Trump said on Truth Social.

Records show that these men, and many others, spent large portions of their life with Epstein, and on his Island.'"

Clinton has long faced scrutiny over his ties to Epstein and flew on his private plane, although he has never been accused of wrongdoing in the scandal.

Trump himself has not been accused of any wrongdoing, yet the scandal has continued to dog him since his return to the White House in January, despite repeated attempts to put a lid on the issue.

Trump and several close allies, including FBI Director Kash Patel, had earlier assured their right-wing base that they would push for the full release of evidence related to Epstein, including information on his alleged clients.

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However, a wave of MAGA backlash erupted after Trumps Justice Department said in a July memo that Epstein had died by suicide and that the client list" Attorney General Pam Bondi claimed to be reviewing did not exist.

The controversy flared again on Wednesday with the release of emails subpoenaed by Congress from Epsteins estate. In the exchanges, Epstein and his contacts claimed Trump knew about the girls" and had spent hours" with Virginia Giuffre, one of Epsteins victims and the main accuser.

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has ... Read More

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 14, 2025, 23:49 IST

News world Probe Jeffrey Epsteins Links To Bill Clinton, JP Morgan: Trump Orders US Justice Department

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Torkham Gate Closure: A Turning Point In Pakistan-Afghanistan Trade Relations

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CNN-News18

Last Updated: November 15, 2025, 21:16 IST

The closure has halted both local and international trade through one of South Asias busiest border points

For many years, Afghan authorities have accused Pakistan of hindering their exports during peak seasons. File pic/AP

The recent closure of the Torkham border crossing by Afghanistan has left Pakistans diplomatic and economic sectors in shock. This incident stands out among the significant factors affecting their mutual relations over the past several years.

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The closure has halted both local and international trade through one of South Asias busiest border points, indicating a regional trade and political power shift from Pakistan to Afghanistan.

Economic Impact on Pakistan

The situation in Torkham is likely to cause serious economic problems for Pakistan. Afghanistan has been a key market for Pakistans exports for at least three years, purchasing goods worth nearly 2 billion dollars annually, including foodstuffs, building materials, medicines, and other essentials. If the closure persists, the transportation of these goods will stop, and alternative routes will be much more expensive.

Another issue is the loss of transit revenue. Pakistan earns significant money by allowing the movement of goods to Afghanistan through its ports, particularly Karachi. Halting transit trade will exacerbate Pakistans challenging economic situation.

Moreover, the border closure hinders Pakistan from achieving its broader regional trade goals. Most goods bound for Central Asia and even Europe are transported through Afghanistan and Torkham. Continued border closures will cost the industry billions of dollars in logistics and trade fees.

Additionally, the human cost is substantial. Truck drivers, small traders, and logistics workers in the border trade sectors are now facing joblessness and income instability.

Beyond trade, the closure could impact the future of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The Waziristan district areas near the Afghan border, where the corridor is located, are already insecure due to prevailing security conditions. Pakistan and China have engaged Afghanistan in joining or supporting CPEC, but political tensions and border disputes hinder this cooperation. Analysts warn that ongoing instability and mistrust may jeopardise one of Pakistans most vital economic projects.

Impact on Afghanistan

Afghanistan may face short-term difficulties in obtaining essential items like food and medicines. However, the overall economic impact will not be significant. Kabul has, in recent years, reduced its dependence on Pakistan by diversifying trade partners and making deals with Iran, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Russia, and China. This network helps the Afghan market manage border closures without coming to a complete standstill.

Afghan merchants are also adapting to the recent border closure. Vegetables and fruits initially meant for export to Pakistan are now being directed to local markets in Nangarhar and nearby districts.

Nangarhar deputy governor M Walvi Azizullah Mustafa met traders at the fruit market in Jalalabad City, assuring them of creating a robust market both domestically and internationally. He mentioned that officials are working to facilitate the export of domestic fruits and vegetables to other countries and urged citizens, especially the wealthy, to support traders and businessmen.

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For many years, Afghan authorities have accused Pakistan of hindering their exports during peak seasons, particularly targeting agriculture to exert economic and political pressure, exemplifying its anti-Afghan economic policy and trade restrictions.

First Published: November 15, 2025, 21:16 IST

News world Torkham Gate Closure: A Turning Point In Pakistan-Afghanistan Trade Relations

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President Trump's plan to redistrict Indiana to try to deliver more congressional seats to Republicans in the 2026 midterms does not have the votes to pass the state Senate, its leader announced Friday. So the GOP-run Senate will not convene for a redistricting session, President Pro Tem Rodric Bray said, despite pressure from Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Gov. Mike Braun, NBC News reports. Trump had lobbied state lawmakers directly in the Oval Office, and Vance made two visits to the state to push the plan. The decision is a major blow to Trump's multistate effort, and the administration responded Friday by summoning Indiana legislators to the White House next week.

Bray said he'd held a test vote Friday in his caucus, per Politico. As it is, Republicans hold seven of Indiana's nine congressional seats. One concern among Republicans is that the redrawing could make some GOP districts more competitive. Some party members object on principle. "We are being asked to create a new culture in which it would be normal for a political party to select new voters, not once a decadebut any time it fears the consequences of an approaching election," state Sen. Spencer Deery in August, per the AP. Indiana's rejection means lawmakers might not be able to redistrict at all before the midterms, per the AP. Lawmakers in both chambers will convene for their regular session in January, but the deadline to file to run for Congress in Indiana is in early February. US Rep. Andre Carson, a Democrat whose district was likely to be redrawn, thanked the state lawmakers on Friday. "Hoosiers do things differently. We're about collaboration, not division," he said. "We're about independent thinkingnot taking orders from Washington."

Redistricting is in various stages politically in other states:

Kansas : GOP legislators, also pressured by Trump, announced this month they were dropping their push for a special session to redistrict.

: GOP legislators, also pressured by Trump, announced this month they were dropping their push for a special session to redistrict. Florida : Republicans seem to be divided, per the New York Times. The House speaker said, "We're not there yet," per Politico, while Gov. Ron DeSantis posted only, "Stay Tuned."

: Republicans seem to be divided, per the New York Times. The House speaker said, "We're not there yet," per Politico, while Gov. Ron DeSantis posted only, "Stay Tuned." Maryland : Democrats are looking into redrawing but haven't agreed on anything.

: Democrats are looking into redrawing but haven't agreed on anything. Virginia : Democrats have taken the first steps toward a remapping that could give them three more congressional seats.

: Democrats have taken the first steps toward a remapping that could give them three more congressional seats. Nebraska : Republicans in the one-house legislature are holding firm against redistricting, per Politico.

: Republicans in the one-house legislature are holding firm against redistricting, per Politico. New Hampshire: Republicans fear that redoing the state's two districts held by Democrats could make one of them more competitive. The Trump administration has threated to primary Gov. Kelly Ayotte over the issue.

Read These Next The US just made a big

Another big brand delivers an

Hours after Michigan fired its football coach, he

One donor, 197 kids, and a

Time is running short, per the Times: Many states, like Indiana, have filing deadlines nearing.
President Trump has added two pardons of people convicted of crimes related to the Capitol riot, one for the second time and the other for threatening to shoot FBI agents, the administration announced Saturday. Ed Martin, a Justice Department pardon attorney and supporter of the Jan. 6, 2021, rioters, revealed the pardons online. The moves represent an expansion of Trump's previous clemency efforts for those prosecuted in connection with the riot, the New York Times reports. The newly pardoned are:
Jet2s stock narrative has recently shifted as analysts updated their price targets, with the fair value remaining steady at 19.48 per share and the discount rate easing slightly. Some analysts express optimism for the companys long-term potential, while others cite increased sector competition as a reason for trimming near-term expectations. Stay tuned to discover how you can stay informed about the evolving outlook for Jet2s shares amidst these contrasting analyst views.

Stay updated as the Fair Value for Jet2 shifts by adding it to your watchlist or portfolio. Alternatively, explore our Community to discover new perspectives on Jet2.

What Wall Street Has Been Saying

 Bullish Takeaways

JPMorgans analyst Harry Gowers reaffirmed an Overweight rating on Jet2, despite reducing the price target to 1,850 GBp from 2,200 GBp. This indicates continued confidence in the companys longer-term prospects.

RBC Capital maintained its Outperform rating while trimming the price target to 2,150 GBp from 2,200 GBp. This reflects their view that Jet2s core operations and ability to execute effectively remain strengths.

Bullish sentiment is partly supported by recognition of Jet2s execution quality and strategic positioning. Analysts acknowledge some valuation challenges and near-term risks.

 Bearish Takeaways

Morgan Stanley, with analyst Axel Stasse initiating coverage at an Equal Weight rating and a 1,420 GBp price target, highlights concerns over Jet2s near-term trends. Intense sector competition is cited as a headwind.

Recent price target reductions from both JPMorgan and RBC Capital suggest reservations around valuation and the impact of competition. Some upside is already perceived to be reflected in the current share price.

The overall analyst tone is cautious in the short term. Heightened competition and possible softer trends may constrain near-term performance.

Do your thoughts align with the Bull or Bear Analysts? Perhaps you think there's more to the story. Head to the Simply Wall St Community to discover more perspectives or begin writing your own Narrative!

AIM:JET2 Community Fair Values as at Nov 2025

What's in the News
TOKYO, Nov 15 (News On Japan) - Japan Airlines (JAL) has introduced a new policy starting November 13th allowing its cabin crew and ground staff who serve customers at airports to wear sneakers during work hours.

The change, which modifies previous rules that limited footwear to leather shoes and pumps, was made in response to employee feedback from frontline workers.

The decision aims to reduce the physical burden of long hours spent standing and walking while placing greater emphasis on employee comfort and health. A JAL staff member welcomed the change, saying, "Im happy that we now have more options. I think it will help create an environment where we can continue working for many years while taking care of our health."

Source: BIZ
TOKYO, Nov 15 (News On Japan) - While many employees welcome the shift toward digitalization for making work more efficient, others express concern that it could eventually threaten their jobs.

A recent survey conducted by En Japan, which operates one of Japans largest temporary staffing information platforms, examined attitudes toward workplace digitalization. According to the results, 66% of respondents said they felt digitalization was advancing at their workplaces, citing growing adoption of paperless systems, online meetings, and chat tools.

At the same time, one in four respondents said they felt anxious about the trend. Common concerns included having to learn more new tools, fewer opportunities for face-to-face interaction, and fears that improved efficiency could lead to a decline in available workparticularly among temporary staff.

En Japan commented on the findings, saying that rather than treating the introduction of digital tools as the endpoint, companies should adopt a companion-style approach, providing ongoing support that stays close to employees needs.
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Postal Code
John Nalepa: Thank you, Eyal, and best of luck to you and your family. I'd also like to thank all our investors who have joined us on today's call. Today, I'll walk you through our financial results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2025. We've been focusing on execution and operational efficiency and are encouraged by the progress we continue to make. During 2025, Rekor delivered its best financial performance in its history, marking our third consecutive quarter of positive results. We delivered record revenue of $14.2 million, an increase of 35% compared to Q3 2024 and 15% compared to Q2 2025.

It's been an honor working alongside such a talented and mission-driven team. Rekor's future is bright, and I look forward to watching its continued success. With that, it's my pleasure to turn the call over to our incoming CFO, John Nalepa, to discuss the financial performance for the quarter.

John has served as Rekor's Corporate Controller for the past six and a half years and has been deeply involved in every aspect of the CFO role over the past year. John brings both internal institutional knowledge and financial rigor with prior experience as a manager at KPMG. His long-term tenure at Rekor and commitment to excellence make him the ideal person to step into this role. There will be no learning curve with John. His appointment by our board ensures a seamless transition, maintaining continuity and stability. I remain overwhelmingly optimistic about Rekor's future and leave with complete confidence in the company's strategy, our team, and the tremendous momentum the company has built.

Eyal Hen: Thank you, Robert, and good afternoon to everyone joining us. After nearly seven years with Rekor, I've made the decision to step down from my role as Chief Financial Officer. It's been a tremendous privilege to help lead the company through its transformation and growth journey, and I'm deeply proud to conclude this chapter with the strongest quarterly and year-to-date results in Rekor's history. It's truly a testament to the dedication and talent of our entire team. I'm also very pleased to introduce my successor, John Nalepa, who will take over as Chief Financial Officer.

Story Continues

On a year-to-date basis, we recorded revenue of $35.8 million, up 9% from the first nine months of 2024. This increase represents continued growth across our public safety and urban mobility businesses. We continue to see strong momentum in our sales pipeline and active deployments, giving us confidence in our ability to continue to drive growth going forward. Recurring revenue for the third quarter of 2025 totaled $6.5 million, representing an 18% increase compared to the recurring revenue in Q3 2024. For the nine months ended September 30, 2025, recurring revenue was $17.5 million, up 5% year over year. This reflects our long-term strategy of expanding our recurring revenue base through long-term software and data as a service subscription contracts.

Our adjusted gross margin for the quarter was 63% compared to 44% in Q3 2024. For the first nine months of 2025, adjusted gross margin was 55% versus 48% in the prior year period. This improvement was largely driven by a greater portion of high-margin software sales compared to our service and hardware-based contracts. As Eyal has noted previously, we expect margins to continue to fluctuate over time but to gradually stabilize as our software and data as a service businesses become a larger share of total revenue. A key highlight this quarter was our continued focus on operating efficiency. Total operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization, declined 24% quarter over quarter, representing a $3.7 million reduction.

Year to date, we've reduced operating expenses by $7.8 million, an 18% improvement compared to the same period last year. These reductions were achieved across all major areas of the business and reflect disciplined cost containment and a deliberate realignment of resources to support our strategy. The combination of record revenue and operational efficiencies resulted in significant improvements in our profitability. Adjusted EBITDA loss for Q3 2025 was $1.5 million, an improvement of $7.9 million or 84% from Q3 2024. On a year-to-date basis, adjusted EBITDA loss improved by $10.8 million to $14.5 million compared to $25.3 million in the prior year period.

These results reflect record performances across the company as we continue to manage our operating expenses to align with our growth as our revenue base continues to expand. Before I turn it back to Robert, I want to say how truly honored and excited I am to serve as CFO and move forward with our efforts to focus on transparency, financial discipline, and execution to support our long-term strategy. We have a clear strategy, a strong foundation, and a dedicated team driving results to create value for our shareholders. I look forward to building on the progress we have made and helping lead the next phase of growth. Thank you for your attention, Robert, back to you.

Robert Berman: Thanks, John, and welcome officially to your new role. We've had a long-standing relationship, and I am pleased to see you take on this leadership position. With your prior experience at KPMG and long tenure at Rekor, we are fortunate to have you here and to take the reins from Eyal. As outlined, this quarter represents a third straight quarter of positive results for both investors and the company. We are seeing clear signs that Rekor is reaching a point where the growth of recurring revenue and expanding market demand are aligning with operational discipline to drive sustainable growth.

These results reflect the momentum outlined in our prior announcement, where we stated that Rekor expected record quarterly revenue along with a significantly improved adjustment in EBITDA and gross margin. We continue to work towards these objectives. In early October, we achieved a major milestone by securing our largest statewide multiyear contract with the Georgia Department of Transportation, valued at a minimum of $50 million over the contract's full term. This contract further validates our leadership in roadway intelligence and data infrastructure, providing a long-term growth foundation in one of the most strategically important transportation markets in the country. We also received recognition for our work in South Carolina, where Rekor technology powers the state's virtual weigh station network.

The program was recently awarded a state technology innovation award for establishing a nearly 100% accuracy rate in overweight truck targeting, a model that other states can follow. This project showcases Rekor's ability to effectively use AI and connected infrastructure to deliver measurable value and efficiency to state agencies. Furthermore, three new and very large states have begun using Rekor's Discover. Beyond our core operations, I'd like to briefly mention a new initiative Rekor plans to enter the global deepfake detection market. While we can't speak in detail yet, this opportunity builds on years of experience in video analytics for government agencies and particularly law enforcement.

For some time, even before deepfakes were a notion in the public's mind, we've considered the evidential implications of synthetic media and deepfake technologies and positioned ourselves to protect our customers and the public at large in this critical area. These efforts have now been concentrated in Rekor Labs, which is operating as an independent entity, and there's more to come on this when the time is right. We continue to see strong performance across our core portfolio. Rekor Discover and Command have generated considerable attention. Rekor is perfectly positioned to meet that demand with AI-driven solutions that are scalable, cloud-based, and high-margin. I also want to take a moment to recognize the continued strength of Rekor's Scout.

While Discover and Command received much of the public attention, a significant portion of our revenue continues to come from Scout, which remains a cornerstone of our technology portfolio and a recognized leader in vehicle and license plate recognition. As part of our ongoing effort to strengthen and expand this business, I am pleased to announce that Jennifer Candelaria will join Rekor as General Manager of Scout. Jennifer will be based in our Columbia, Maryland office and report directly to me. Jennifer brings more than a decade of global leadership experience across North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America and the Caribbean.

She has a strong track record in technical sales, product management, and business development, with prior leadership roles at Motorola Solutions and Milestone Systems' AI business unit, BriefCam. Her experience building high-performance teams and driving strategic growth aligns perfectly with our goals for Scout. Jennifer will oversee the full P&L for the Scout business, lead sales strategy, market share expansion, and partner channel engagement to accelerate both revenue and margin. Her appointment significantly strengthens our overall leadership team and reinforces our commitment to operational excellence across all business lines. As we enter the first quarter of the year and look ahead to 2026, Rekor continues to be positioned for substantial growth.

The momentum we built across our technology platforms, customer base, and financial performance underscores that Rekor's transformation is delivering lasting value. We would like to thank our shareholders, employees, and partners for their continued trust and support. And lastly, I'd like to publicly thank Eyal once again for his dedicated service to Rekor. And with that, operator, we'll now turn the call over for questions.

Operator: Thank you. We will now be conducting a question and answer session. Our first question comes from the line of Louie DiPalma with William Blair. Please proceed.

Louie DiPalma: Good afternoon, Robert, Eyal, and John. And Eyal, it was a pleasure working with you. And congrats, John, on your appointment as CFO. My first question for Robert: what type of product does the Rekor team envision developing with the deepfake detection division? And would the product be software as a service, or do you imagine it would be more of a solution in which it requires your personnel combined with your software?

Robert Berman: So this is Robert. Thank you for the question. And by the way, it's John Nalepa, right? So who is assuming the role of CFO. But let me answer you by saying that the product that we had previously announced is being developed by a subsidiary, which is operating independently as Rekor Labs under the management of the director. And given what's going on in that space and the competition for IP and other things, there's not much more we can say about what we're doing than what we've said. I know that's probably not satisfying, but we expect to get a product in the market in 2026. And we just want to be careful.

Look, Rekor has a long history of working with AI machine vision, which is video and audio. And this came to our attention back in '23. So it's not something that just kind of popped up one day and decided, oh my god, deepfakes. Right? So we had been looking at it. We actually started developing some technology around it for our customers that were requesting this technology. So that's really all we can say about it at this point in time. I wish I could say more than we can.

Louie DiPalma: Definitely exciting. And how should we think about the EBITDA trajectory and margins over the next several quarters? I think you've been able to take OpEx out of the model, and you're also in the process of scaling the Georgia contract. So how should we think of margins and EBITDA?

Robert Berman: I think the way you should think about it is exactly what we've been saying. We always said that we expect as things progress that our margins will increase. We expect that they will stabilize higher than we reported this quarter. And that's just part of the development process of the technology that we're putting in the field. I think the most important thing is what was said earlier about our clients looking for the data as a service business model. They're not interested in technology and hardware and maintenance contracts and so forth. They need the data that they need to operate the roadways. Look, everyone here understands what's happening.

You hear all these things about robotaxis and companies doing this, that, and the other thing. The DOTs have to keep pace. They've got to keep the roadways safe. And they have to do that through managing data, and the idea of delivering the data as a service as opposed to delivering technology and maintaining it as a contractor is where it's headed, and that means higher margins, longer-term contracts, and a better business model for a company like Rekor. So I think it's consistent with where we projected that we were going. And we're seeing that. And we're seeing that in results today. Right?

Louie DiPalma: Great. And do you see many other contracts similar to the Georgia contract in your pipeline such that other states will look at Georgia as the model or the paradigm and, you know, they perhaps won't need to do a rigorous RFP process? They can trust that Georgia did the proper due diligence and they can expedite the process and go straight with you.

Robert Berman: Yes. Well, look, I think, obviously, states procure the way they procure. But I think the good news is that they do follow each other. What we're seeing, and at the end of the day, I believe that what we pioneered was the concept of data as a service and delivering the solutions that these agencies are looking for. And that's where it's headed. And what we're seeing now, which I think we said during the call, is that this is unprompted. We're seeing RFPs come out that we're responding to that are asking for this business model with the solutions that we have.

And what's really interesting about it is we're seeing a convergence of both the Discover and the Command platform. And what I mean by that is when people think about DOTs, they have two sides. They have operations, which is maintaining roadways, operating roadways, public safety, and all the things that go along with that. And then you have more long-term things like planning for how you maintain your roadways over the next ten, fifteen, twenty years.

And what we're seeing is now that the DOTs are looking to combine that into a single pane of glass where they can get the data that they need through one supplier, not by buying hardware, not by having a contractor install equipment and you have to worry about is it working, is it not working, but by a company like Rekor, it's just guess what, you know, we'll give you all of this data that you need to do both planning and operations with and pay us for the data. And if it's not giving you what you need to operate your roadway system, then don't pay us, right?

And if people think about today's world, everyone's used to getting things as a service. And that's something that I'm proud to say we pioneered. And we fought long and hard to make that business model work. But that's exactly what we're starting to see. So we're seeing RFPs come from states that, again, are unprompted. They're just showing up, and they're looking for exactly what Rekor does and the way we do business. More importantly, they're asking for that from the companies that are going to bid that. And I think Rekor is uniquely positioned.

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Rekor (REKR) Q3 2025 Earnings Call Transcript was originally published by The Motley Fool
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RFG Advisory, the Birmingham, Ala.-based hybrid registered investment advisor platform with more than $7 billion in assets, has added Doug Nelson as chief financial officer, according to a LinkedIn post. Nelson is a former principal at Long Ridge Equity Partners, the private equity firm that took a majority stake in RFG in 2023. Nelson is no longer listed on Long Ridges website.

With deep experience in financial leadership, Dougs experience strengthens our mission to help advisors accelerate growth, build enterprise value and navigate the next chapter of their business with confidence including succession planning and tuck-in acquisitions, said Shannon Spotswood, RFGs CEO, in the LinkedIn post.

He replaces Kenneth Kim, who joined RFG in 2024 as CFO from FNZ.

Nelson had been a principal at New York-based Long Ridge since 2018. Prior to that, he was with F-Prime Capital, a global venture capital firm affiliated with Fidelity. He currently serves on the advisory board at FinTech Sandbox, a Boston-based nonprofit accelerator that provides financial data, hosting and mentoring to fintech startups.

This follows news last month that Ed Swenson, who left Osaic this summer after leading the firms RIA solutions division for about two years, joined RFG Advisory as president. Spotswood held that role until July 2024, when she succeeded founder and CEO Bobby White, who moved into an executive chairman role.

RFG has made some big C-Suite hires over the last several years, including Abby Salameh, former CMO of CAIS, as chief growth officer, and Brendan Frazier, founder of Wired Planning, as chief behavioral officer.
Reinsurance Group of America recently opened its first New York City office at Park Avenue Tower, marking a significant expansion in Midtown Manhattan and reflecting the companys focus on high-quality assets in top-tier locations.

An RGA study also reveals that broad adoption of GLP-1 medications could reduce US mortality by 3.5% by 2045, underlining the company's active role in analyzing emerging healthcare trends with potential implications for risk assessment within the insurance sector.

We'll explore how RGA's new research on GLP-1 medications and public health outcomes could affect its long-term investment narrative.

Uncover the next big thing with financially sound penny stocks that balance risk and reward.

Reinsurance Group of America Investment Narrative Recap

To own shares in Reinsurance Group of America, you need to believe in the long-term value of expanding insurance needs, RGAs global diversification, and its capability to balance risk with disciplined capital deployment. The recent opening of a Midtown Manhattan office affirms RGAs commitment to premier markets and operational quality, but it does not materially change the immediate catalyst for the stock, namely, ongoing growth in international premium volumes driven by demand in Asia, nor does it significantly affect key risks tied to US health claim volatility or capital requirements.

Among recent announcements, RGAs record of growing deployable capital, supported by new in-force value credits and a strong balance sheet, aligns most with investors focus on the companys ability to pursue growth opportunities, sustain buybacks, or weather volatility. This capital strength continues to support future earnings and return on equity targets, even as RGA remains exposed to variability in US life and health claims.

In contrast, investors should be mindful that higher-than-expected health claim volatility can still...

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Reinsurance Group of America's narrative projects $29.2 billion revenue and $1.9 billion earnings by 2028. This requires 10.3% yearly revenue growth and a $1.13 billion increase in earnings from $770.0 million.

Uncover how Reinsurance Group of America's forecasts yield a $236.89 fair value, a 26% upside to its current price.

Exploring Other Perspectives

RGA Community Fair Values as at Nov 2025

Three community fair value estimates for RGA span from US$195 to US$613, underscoring how much opinions diverge across the Simply Wall St Community. Recent volatility in US claims patterns adds more variables for you to consider alongside global catalysts driving the companys results.
Fortuna Mining Corp. (NYSE:FSM) is one of the best cheap stocks under $10 to buy now. On November 6, Scotiabank analyst Eric Winmill maintained a Hold rating on Fortuna Mining Corp. (NYSE:FSM), setting a price target of $10.50. The rating update followed the companys fiscal Q3 earnings release on November 5.

Fortuna Mining (FSM) Declines Ahead of Q2 Earnings

Jorge A. Ganoza, President and CEO of Fortuna Mining Corp. (NYSE:FSM), stated that the company delivered a strong quarter, with free cash flow from operations in the quarter reaching $73.4 million, up $16.0 million from fiscal Q2 and attributed primarily to consistent mine performance and higher gold prices.

Cash costs for the quarter remained below $1,000/oz, with AISC at the companys mines tracking within guidance. However, AISC at Lindero trended lower, and the company expects similar improvements to take place at Seguela with the completion of key investments to support the 2026 production of 160,000180,000 ounces.

Fortuna Mining Corp. (NYSE:FSM) further reported that its balance sheet is continuing to strengthen, with nearly $265.8 million in net cash and $600 million in liquidity. This is supporting the company to fund high-impact growth initiatives such as Diamba Sud, expansion of exploration across Latin America and West Africa, and unlocking the full potential of the Seguela Mine.

Fortuna Mining Corp. (NYSE:FSM) is involved in the exploration, extraction, and processing of base and precious metals in Latin America. The companys operations are divided into the following segments: Minera Bateas S.A.C (Bateas), Compania Minera Cuzcatlan S.A. de C.V. (Cuzcatian), Mansfield Minera S.A. (Mansfield), and Corporate.

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Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
The firefighters who protect the states Air National Guard fighter wing at Atlantic City International Airport are now eligible for entry in the Police and Firemens Retirement System, or PFRS.

The change took effect Monday and follows years of efforts to bring recognition of their work in alignment with peers around the state, the departments union says.

The 177th Fighter Wing Fire Department is a 23-member, civilian 24/7 firefighting force that serves the guards 177th Fighter Wing, a U.S. Air Force component. The group falls under the N.J. Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

The fire department was started in 1987 to protect the fighter wing, but its members were given unclassified posts called staff assistants. The word firefighter was literally written in parentheses.

This classification never reflected who we were or the dangers we faced daily, according to a statement the union wrote summarizing its members actions over the years, partially authored by fire Capt. Kolby Rundio.

Rundio said the department has responded to everything from aircraft crashes and structure fires to medical calls, both on the airport grounds and in the surrounding communities. The department is a member of the Atlantic County Tanker Task Force.

Yet through it all, our members were never properly recognized as firefighters, Rundio wrote in the statement.

In 2011, our members put in a request for the state Civil Service Commission to recognize their role. That appeal was denied, with the explanation that the title Fire Fighter was not available for use in state government, the statement said.

Two years later, the firefighters petitioned to be able to join the PFRS, but the pension system denied it because they were not classified as firefighters. (Members were able to join PERS, the Public Employees Retirement System, Rundio said.)

Politicians and other state officials did not act on their behalf, the statement says. Time and again, we were told to be happy with what we had and to be careful what we wished for, the statement says.

Rundio said the fire department pressed on to attain firefighter status, and entry into the proper PFRS retirement system.

Enter the New Jersey Firemens Mutual Benevolent Association, FMBA, the states largest firefighters labor union. In 2020, FMBA reps traveled to the base firehouse to hear their story.

Even before we were officially affiliated, they offered guidance, advice, and most importantly, hope, Rundio wrote.

In January 2021, the 177th Fighter Wing Fire Department joined the FMBA, and were given the aptly numbered Local 177. Rundio is the union president.

Last year, the FMBA advocacy led to the departments firefighters being reclassified with the titles: air guard firefighter, air guard fire captain, air guard battalion chief and air guard deputy chief. (The departments fire chief is a member of the Air Force.)

For the first time in our departments history, our positions reflected the work, training, and sacrifices we make every day, Rundio wrote in the statement.

And on Monday, Rundio said, the PFRSs board accepted their titles into the pension. What we were told for years could never happen, finally has, Rundio said.

It was a monumental day for us, history was made, Rundio told NJ Advance Media.

We look forward to continuing our mission knowing that our efforts and sacrifices have finally been acknowledged, he said.
An Egg Harbor Township man accused of being part of an extremist network was charged with cyberstalking offenses and telling a young girl to cut herself, officials with the U.S. Attorneys Office said Friday.

Marek Cherkaoui, 21, was arrested at his home Friday and accused of being a member of the Nihilistic Violent Extremist network 764, officials said.

Nihilistic Violent Extremist networks are misanthropic organizations that want to destroy society through violence, investigators wrote in charging documents.

The 764 network, specifically, aims to destabilize the U.S. by creating chaos and undermining civil institutions, investigators wrote in charging documents.

From December 2024 through May 2025, authorities said Cherkaoui threatened a young girl online and told her to cut herself.

The girl cut herself on two occasions after receiving threats from Cherkaoui, officials said.

Cherkaoui had a lengthy history of making threats and advocating for violence online, authorities said.

In other statements online, Cherkaoui wrote society must collapse to stop white genocide, and called for violence against minority children, according to charging documents.

Cherkaoui also has a history of making comments online expressing support for mass shooters, soliciting child sexual abuse material from minors and encouraged others to harm themselves, officials said.

Writings from Cherkaoui found at his home on Friday involved plots to commit murder and terroristic acts, including a multi-step plan involving joining ISIS and then returning to the U.S. to commit acts of terrorism, officials said.

He also purchased books on manufacturing explosives, body armor, zip ties, a trench coat, ski masks and tactical gear, some of which were found at his home during a search in June, officials said.

Cherkaoui made his first appearance in federal court on Friday and was ordered detained.

It was unclear whether Cherkaoui was represented by an attorney Friday night.
A passenger died and a driver was hurt on Friday after a car lost control and hit a tree, officials said.

The crash happened at 5:23 a.m. on Post Road in Buena Vista Township.

The vehicle lost control, left the road, reentered it and then ran off the road a second time before striking the tree, New Jersey State Police spokesman Trooper II Christopher Postorino told NJ Advance Media.

The front seat passenger, Luis Martinez, 43, of Vineland, was killed in the crash, police said.

The driver was treated for minor injuries at a local hospital, officials said.

An investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.
Cousins Letitia Curry (left) and Porsch Rogers have dreamed of opening a social club in south Jersey. They are on their way to realizing that dream. Courtesy Letitia Curry

Cousins Letitia Curry and Porsch Rogers have had a dream 20 years in the making, and its about to come true.

The Camden County residents, who always wanted to open a nightclub in South Jersey, are planning to open an upscale establishment in Lindenwold next March.

The idea came up 20 years ago when we were younger and would have to go to Philadelphia when we wanted to go to clubs, Curry said. We wanted to bring a social club to (South Jersey) so we didnt have to travel to Philadelphia for nightlife. We never let that idea go.

The Liv-N Room Social Club will be located at 10 South White Horse Pike in Lindenwold, the site of the former Richies Tavern, which shuttered its doors in 2012.

Curry said the social club will be a place for young professionals, age 25 and older, to unwind, socialize, and have fun in a refined environment.

The cousins vision is a social club with upscale decor, but with a comfortable vibe. Thats why were calling it the Liv-n Room Social Club, Curry said.

The 3,300-square-foot structure is in great shape, the cousins report, but will undergo a complete interior renovation.

The club will feature chic couches and lounge furniture in a calm, comfortable environment. Jewel tones such as gold and purple with black could be the colors that set the mood.

Rogers and Curry anticipate serving cocktails and mocktails, and there will be a BYOB option, too. The cousins, who are in the beginning stages of developing menu items, are currently thinking small-plate appetizers.

Music at the club will be provided by DJs.

An annual membership to the club, which will have a dress code, is $25. The Liv-N Room Social Club membership includes exclusive access to Members Only events, priority entry to all events, discounts, private event rental, and early access to events before they are released to the public via newsletters and announcements.

Rogers and Curry said the club already has several members.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement lodged a detainer against the U.K. citizen who was charged earlier this week in Gloucester County, a spokesperson for the federal agency said.

The detainer was filed with the West Deptford Police Department and Salem County Correctional Facility where George Linard, 24, is being held, according to the ICE spokesperson.

Linard uses multiple aliases, including Steve Peker, the spokesperson said. Linard identified himself to police as Steve Hall on Sunday night after the fatal crash, officials said.

Linard was previously removed from the U.S., according to the ICE spokesperson.

It is unclear whether New Jersey will recognize the ICE detainer.

Linard was charged with second-degree death by auto and two counts of fourth-degree assault by auto this week after the car he was driving hit another vehicle, killing the driver.

The fatal crash occurred near the intersection of Red Bank and Hessian avenues in West Deptford shortly before 6 p.m. Sunday.

The incident began when West Deptford police responded to a call shortly after 5:30 p.m. reporting two intoxicated men at the PS Gas and Food Mart in the neighboring borough of National Park, according to the Gloucester County Prosecutors Office.

West Deptford police patrol the borough.

When officers arrived at the Hessian Avenue business, they spotted a white car that matched the description of the one belonging to the men.

Officers approached the vehicle, but it quickly departed the gas station onto Hessian Avenue, according to the new complaint.

The vehicle fled at a high rate of speed and an officer in a marked West Deptford police car used emergency lights to try to pull it over, police said.

At the intersection of Hessian and Red Bank avenues, the car disregarded a red light and struck the drivers side of a Honda Accord at a high rate of speed, according to police.

The Accord then struck a Toyota Rav4 that was stopped at the red light facing the opposite direction on Hessian.

The driver of the Honda was killed, while a passenger in the rear of that vehicle suffered a broken leg, police said. The passenger told investigators the vehicle was T-boned by Linards vehicle.

Linard and his front-seat passenger suffered significant bodily injuries, police said, with an earlier complaint stating that the passenger suffered a dislocated hip.

The two occupants in the Rav4 suffered non-life threatening injuries, police said.

A witness to the incident reported seeing police lights in the distance and Linards vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed before the crash, investigators said.

Linard appeared to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash, according to the complaint filed by police.

The passenger in Linards vehicle also had a U.K. driving license, police said in the new complaint, though his identity was redacted in the complaint.

Linard is also wanted on unrelated drug and money laundering charges in Bergen County, authorities said.

Obviously, this is a horrific incident. And we look forward to obtaining all of the facts and understanding the responsibility the police had in preventing what occurred, Linards attorney Harley D. Breite told NJ Advance Media.
European fashion brand Jack & Jones is making its debut in the United States with two stores, including one at the Freehold Raceway Mall. Freehold Raceway Mall

European fashion brand Jack & Jones is making its debut in the United States with two stores, including one at the Freehold Raceway Mall.

The second store will be at Danbury Fair Mall in Connecticut.

Both locations will feature Jack & Jones, a menswear brand founded in Denmark, and JJXX, its womens fashion line.

The store openings mark the first phase of the companys U.S. expansion, with more locations planned.

Freehold mall officials hope the store will open early next year.

Jack & Jones started as a denim-focused menswear label and has grown into an international retailer operating more than 4,000 stores worldwide.

The brand offers collections including denim, tailoring, casual wear, urban sportswear, and accessories.

JJXX, the womens fashion line, delivers bold, contemporary styles with a focus on high-quality denim and versatile wardrobe essentials, giving women the tools to express their individuality with confidence.

Anders Gam, brand director of Jack & Jones, said the U.S. has always been an important fashion market for the company.

Were excited to introduce our unique blend of denim expertise and accessible fashion, Gam said in a statement. We cant wait to meet the U.S. consumers and share what Jack & Jones is all about  great denim, on-trend fashion, and prices that make it easy to keep your style fresh, Gam said in a statement.

Eric Bunyan, senior vice president of leasing at Macerich, the real estate company that owns Freehold Raceway Mall, said the brands bring fresh energy to the shopping centers.

Their focus on quality, style, and versatile fashion perfectly complements the shopping experience our guests expect, Bunyan said in a statement.
Keith Michael Lisa is charged with possession of a dangerous weapon in a federal facility and depredation of federal property, the FBI said. Federal Bureau of Investigation

A 51-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly attempting to confront acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba and damaging property at her Newark office Wednesday, officials said.

Keith Michael Lisa is charged with possession of a dangerous weapon in a federal facility and depredation of federal property, the FBI said.

Lisa was born in California and has ties to Mahwah and New York City, the FBI said.

No one will get away with threatening or intimidating our great US Attorneys or the destruction of their offices, wrote U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi in an X post.

Lisa allegedly brought a bat to the Peter W. Rodino Federal Building in Essex County but was denied entry. He discarded the weapon before returning and entering the building and damaging property, the FBI said.

A federal arrest warrant was issued for Lisa on Nov. 13 and the FBI offered a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to his arrest and conviction.

Attorney Alina Habba speaks before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at a campaign event, Friday, Aug. 30, 2024, in Johnstown, Pa. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) AP

Bondi addressed the matter in a social media post on Thursday.

Any violence or threats of violence against any federal officer will not be tolerated. Period, Bondi wrote.

Our federal prosecutors, agents and law enforcement partners put their lives on the line every day to protect the American people, and this department will use every legal tool available to ensure their safety and hold violent offenders fully accountable, Bondi added.

Habba shared Bondis statement on social media, writing, I will not be intimidated by radical lunatics for doing my job.

President Donald Trump appointed Habba, his former personal attorney, to become New Jerseys top federal prosecutor earlier this year.
Temperatures will warm into the 50s across most of New Jersey on Saturday before rain overnight. Sunday will be blustery with wind gusts up to 40 mph. AccuWeather.com and National Weather Service

A fast-moving storm system will bring rain to New Jersey Saturday evening into early Sunday, followed by strong winds gusting up to 40 mph.

Light rain is expected to develop across New Jersey late Saturday afternoon and evening as a warm front lifts through the region.

Temperatures will rebound to the 50s by Saturday evening after a cold, frosty start with most areas in the 20s and 30s.

Conditions remain dry through the day before clouds thicken and lower late in the afternoon.

Temperatures will warm into the 50s across most of New Jersey on Saturday before rain overnight. Sunday will be blustery with wind gusts up to 40 mph. AccuWeather.com and National Weather Service

The National Weather Service forecasts rainfall amounts generally less than one quarter inch, with the heaviest totals of up to half an inch possible across eastern portions of the state.

The rain should end by early Sunday as a cold front sweeps through overnight.

Behind the departing storm system, gusty winds will develop Sunday morning and persist through Monday.

West-northwest winds are forecast to gust between 30 and 35 mph across the region Sunday, with some gusts potentially topping 40 mph during the afternoon hours.

Temperatures will warm into the 50s across most of New Jersey on Saturday before rain overnight. Sunday will be blustery with wind gusts up to 40 mph. AccuWeather.com and National Weather Service

The strong winds will continue into Monday, though slightly diminished, with gusts of 25 to 30 mph expected.

High temperatures Sunday will likely occur overnight into early Sunday morning before remaining steady or falling a few degrees through the day.

Monday will be colder with highs only reaching the mid 40s, but wind chill values will make it feel like the 30s for much of the day.

Tuesday through Wednesday will see high pressure build in from the west, bringing calmer conditions with diminishing winds and temperatures below normal.

By Thursday, temperatures will moderate to normal levels, reaching slightly above normal on Friday.

The forecast remains dry through at least Thursday afternoon, though rain chances increase for Thursday night and Friday as another frontal system approaches from the west.

There is uncertainty regarding the track and timing of this late-week system.

Current weather radar
Temporal, a crypto research and development firm, is the creator of HumidiFi, a so-called dark exchange that has dominated trading on the Solana blockchain in recent months.

Thats according to multiple sources who spoke to DL News on condition of anonymity.

Dark exchange

HumidiFi is one of several dark exchanges on Solana. While the identity of the team behind HumidiFi has so far remained a secret, the protocol plays an outsized role on the blockchain.

Data on how much revenue HumidiFi generates isnt public, but it handled almost $40 billion of trades over the past month, around a third of all trading on Solana, per DefiLlama data.

In addition to confirming HumidiFi was created by Temporal, one source shared screenshots of Telegram conversations in which Lucas Tcheyan, a researcher at Galaxy Digital, also confirmed the connection.

Tcheyan did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

DL News considered the sources credible due to their positions in the Solana developer community.

Temporal founder Ben Coverston declined to comment when asked if his firm was behind HumidiFi, but did not deny it.

No comment, he said.

DL News asked Coverston if he was denying the allegation.

No comment, Coverston repeated.

Selling a token

The revelation that Temporal is behind HumidiFi comes as the project plans to sell a token to investors later this month.

That token, called WET, will launch on Decentralised Token Formation, a platform developed by Jupiter, a Solana exchange aggregator that works closely with HumidiFi.

Its not clear what function the WET token will serve. Still, investors are excited about the offering given HumidiFis recent success.

In recent months, multiple other so-called dark automated market makers, or prop AMMs, have revealed their identities.

Market maker Wintermute confirmed to DL News in August that it runs Tessera V, a dark AMM that handled $6.6 billion of trades over the past month.

In May, Solana DeFi developer Ellipsis Labs publicly claimed credit for developing SolFi, another dark AMM whose creators were previously unknown.

Prominent player

Temporal is a prominent player in the Solana developer ecosystem.

The firm built Nozomi, an execution layer for the Solana blockchain, which processes millions of transactions daily. It also recently spun out a separate firm to launch Harmonic, an open block-building infrastructure for Solana.

The firm also invests across the Solana ecosystem, and lists DoubleZero, Backpack, and Sanctum in its portfolio.

Several of Temporals team were previously involved with MarginFi, a Solana lending protocol. The project experienced a schism in April last year after co-founder Edgar Pavlovsky abruptly resigned.
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Shoe Carnival Inc. is changing its name.

On Thursday, the Fort Mill, S.C.-based footwear retailer said that its board of directors unanimously voted to change the corporate name to Shoe Station Group, Inc. The change is subject to approval by the companys shareholders at its annual meeting in June 2026.

More from WWD

The retailer noted that the name change reflects the winning performance of its Shoe Station banner, which the company acquired in 2021 for $67 million.

With its new name, the company said that it expects over 90 percent of its fleet to operate as Shoe Station by the end of fiscal 2028, with the remaining locations being evaluated for rebannering, outlet repositioning, or closure.

So far, the company has completed 100 store rebanners during fiscal 2025 and is on track for 51 percent of its fleet to operate as Shoe Station by the back-to-school season in 2026.

Mark Worden, president and chief executive officer of the newly renamed Shoe Station Group, said in a statement that this change marks a pivotal moment for the company.

Shoe Station is winning  growing comps, expanding margins and capturing new customers, Worden said. The board of directors decision to approve the corporate name change to Shoe Station Group reflects our confidence in this banners potential and establishes our foundation for becoming the nations leading family footwear retailer.

The company also gave a peek into its preliminary third quarter 2025 earnings results, which it said helped drive the decision to change its name. In the period, Shoe Station net sales grew 5.3 percent, while Shoe Carnival net sales declined 5.2 percent. The company noted that Shoe Carnivals performance reflected continued pressure on lower-income consumers.

In Q3, the company noted that net sales were $297.2 million, exceeding consensus expectations. Third quarter diluted earnings per share was 53 cents, also exceeding consensus expectations. The companys full third quarter results will be released on Nov. 20.

Looking ahead, Shoe Station Group added that it expects to see $20 million in annual cost savings and operating efficiencies expected by the end of fiscal 2027, as well as significant reduction in dual-brand operational complexity across merchandising, marketing, systems, supply chain and back office.
Alamo Group Inc. recently reported its third quarter and nine-month 2025 results, with third quarter sales reaching US$420.04 million and net income of US$25.38 million, both showing modest changes compared to the previous year.

While revenue grew in the third quarter, net income and earnings per share declined year-over-year, resulting in nearly flat performance for the first nine months of 2025 and raising questions about profit momentum.

We'll examine how softer third quarter earnings impact the investment narrative around Alamo Group's margin expansion and future growth expectations.

This technology could replace computers: discover 26 stocks that are working to make quantum computing a reality.

Alamo Group Investment Narrative Recap

To be a shareholder in Alamo Group, you need confidence in its ability to grow through infrastructure investment and government demand, especially as the Industrial Equipment division expands. The recent third quarter results, with steady sales but declining net income, may dampen near-term optimism about margin improvements, though the impact on the major catalysts and risks facing the business appears limited for now. The biggest immediate risk still lies in revenue volatility tied to end-market spending cycles, which could weigh on investor sentiment if softness persists.

Among recent announcements, the CEO transition in August 2025 stands out as highly relevant to current financial results. Leadership changes amid modest profit performance highlight the potential for execution risk, especially with a new chief executive guiding ongoing recovery efforts and an active acquisition pipeline. Investors will be monitoring how seamlessly this management shift supports progress on efficiency, backlog growth, and margin recovery, or if it complicates these priorities.

Yet, despite growing sales in industrial equipment, concerns remain about long-term stability given Alamos exposure to unpredictable public sector spending and...

Read the full narrative on Alamo Group (it's free!)

Alamo Group's narrative projects $1.9 billion revenue and $179.9 million earnings by 2028. This requires 5.3% yearly revenue growth and a $61.5 million earnings increase from $118.4 million.

Uncover how Alamo Group's forecasts yield a $232.25 fair value, a 43% upside to its current price.

Exploring Other Perspectives

ALG Earnings & Revenue Growth as at Nov 2025

Three member estimates from the Simply Wall St Community value Alamo Group shares in a wide US$164.78 to US$232.25 range. While some see substantial upside, weaker third quarter margins may add uncertainty for those weighing the companys exposure to cyclical municipal budgets.
Devon & Cornwall Police are carrying out a week of targeted action to tackle retail crime, with Exeter businesses seeing increased police patrols, arrests and crime-prevention visits as part of the national Safer Business Action Week.

The initiative, running from 10 November, aims to strengthen day-to-day links between police, shop staff and local business groups at a time when retail crime and anti-social behaviour continue to affect city centres.

Officers in Exeter have been focusing on shoplifting hotspots, engaging with workers on the high street and carrying out intelligence-led operations.

Police say the early results include several arrests linked to theft and breaches of bail conditions.

Officers have also charged multiple suspects in connection with shop thefts and carried out daily foot patrols, locating two missing people during the week.

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Devon & Cornwall Police are part of Exeter Business Against Crime (EBAC), a partnership that links police, retailers and local authorities through shared information, a secure reporting system and live radio communication between businesses.

The scheme also helps coordinate exclusion orders for persistent or aggressive offenders. One recent example is Stevie Lee Palmer, an Exeter shoplifter jailed for 52 weeks and given a three-year Criminal Behaviour Order preventing him entering certain shops after his release.

Assistant Chief Constable Glen Mayhew said the force is focusing resources on known hotspots and targeting repeat offenders.

We know how much business crime can affect those who work within businesses in our communities. By taking a collaborative and proactive approach, we can deploy resources to specific locations and directly target offenders, he said.

This week also marks the launch of the Devon, Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Business Crime Reduction Partnership, which will allow businesses across the region to share intelligence, coordinate responses and collectively exclude prolific offenders.

Police say the aim is to reduce fear of crime, improve reporting and provide better guidance and training for retailers.

Chief Superintendent Antony Hart said police will continue the work beyond this week. Our officers will raise awareness of business crime, encourage reporting, gather intelligence and share prevention advice. The proactive engagement planned this week isnt a one-off.

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez said her office is funding the expansion of UK Partners Against Crime (UKPAC), a scheme linking businesses directly with police intelligence networks.

Following a pilot in Torquay, the scheme is now being rolled out across parts of Devon and Cornwall, with businesses offered a free 12-month subscription to the new regional partnership.

Retailers are encouraged to report incidents, sign up to Community Messaging and seek advice on crime prevention through the Devon & Cornwall Police website.
The Chief Constable of Devon and Cornwall Police, James Vaughan QPM, will snorkel with sharks at the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth on 29 November to raise money for Lunas Fund.

The event is being held as part of the Chief Constables charity of the year.

Lunas Fund was created in 2018 by Aimee and Craig Green after the loss of their daughter, Luna, and supports parents in Devon and Cornwall who experience baby loss before, during or after birth.

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The charity provides practical help and emotional support at a time when many families feel overwhelmed, with support available as soon as parents leave the hospital.

Aimee Green, who now leads the charity, will take part in the snorkel alongside Chief Constable Vaughan.

The date is significant for the family, as it falls on what would have been Lunas eighth birthday.

Aimee said she was grateful that officers and staff from across the force chose Lunas Fund as the Chief Constables charity for 2025.

She said the charity hopes to expand its services into Exeter and the surrounding area next year, and also reflected on how far she has come since Lunas death, saying that marking her daughters birthday in this way felt surreal and incredibly meaningful.

Chief Constable Vaughan said he was a little nervous about getting into the tank but did not hesitate when invited to join the fundraiser.

ABOVE : Lemon sharks from the National Marine Aquarium, Plymouth (Credit: Vivalatew)

He said Lunas Fund gives valuable support and resources to bereaved parents throughout Devon and Cornwall and that the police force is pleased to help raise awareness of the charitys work.

Lunas Fund offers a range of support; including help to redecorate a babys nursery if parents feel unable to keep the room the same, short breaks to support recovery after labour and trauma, and food deliveries for families who are not ready to return to everyday routines.

The charity also provides free private antenatal scans for parents who become pregnant again after a previous loss, giving reassurance alongside NHS care.

The Chief Constables Foundation raises money internally for charities and community projects linked to policing and wellbeing.

Previous causes supported include Petes Dragons and Devon and Cornwall Food Action.

Donations to the shark-snorkelling fundraiser can be made through the Chief Constables official fundraising page.
A new 5.8 million health and wellbeing centre has officially opened at Plymouth Marjon University today (Friday 14 November).

The Marjon Health & Wellbeing Hub was funded by an Office for Students capital grant in 2022.

The refurbished building now includes a simulation hospital ward, a community care suite, Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality training rooms, IT labs, a specialist Speech and Language Therapy dysphasia kitchen, and teaching spaces.

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The Hub sits next to University Hospitals Plymouth at Derriford, supporting close links with NHS partners.

ABOVE : The external view of the new Health and Wellbeing Hub (Image: Jamie T)

The new centre will train more than 600 students and apprentices each year across programmes including Nursing, Physiotherapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Public Health, Psychotherapy and Counselling, Osteopathic Medicine, Assistant Practitioner roles and Nursing Associate training, with more than 70 staff working in the Hub.

The facility will also run health and wellbeing clinics for local residents.

Students will learn in real clinical settings while providing services such as Physiotherapy, Osteopathic Medicine, Psychotherapy and Counselling, and Speech and Language Therapy.

Vice-Chancellor Claire Taylor spoke to The Moorlander about how the new Health and Wellbeing Hub could help contribute to members of the Dartmoor public or prospective students from local towns such as Tavistock and Okehampton.

For members of the (Dartmoor) public, the hub provides another place to come if you are seeking any sort of clinical input.

Recently we have been running pay-what-you-can counselling clinics which have proved very popular, physio and osteo, speech and language therapy as well so this is another facility for the community to access be that through GP referral or self-referral.

For students who are thinking about coming to Marjon this is where they will be able to experience real state-of-the-art facilities in terms of simulation space, wards, Augmented and Virtual Reality suites so students coming here will get a top-notch learning experience that is rooted in the real world.

The Hub brings together simulation wards and specialist clinical rooms, giving students hands-on experience and expanding vital services for the local community.

All clinics are led by qualified practitioners, with students supervised throughout.

ABOVE : A physiotherapy room on the ground floor (Image: Jamie T)

The University says this will ease pressure on local NHS services and widen access to support in the community.

Dr Saul Bloxham, Dean of Health, echoed the Vice-Chancellors words and explained how the ground floor of the building is purpose-built for students and people of the local community to work together.

We can't do this without the local people. The people that come through, often from local communities, go back out and stay in their local area to boost the health service and various areas in which we need to address health inequality. It is a wonderful partnership between the community and the University.

Katie Pay, a Dartmoor local and second year student nurse at Plymouth Marjon University, explained how useful it is to have such a facility on her doorstep.

Its amazing to be honest. I never thought that something like this would be possible down in the South West, especially growing up in Ivybridge, you don't have a lot of opportunities available to you and I never realised before doing more research that this place was here.

ABOVE: Student nurse Katie Pay (right) is a Dartmoor local taking full advantage of the facilities on offer (Image: Jamie T)

The Hub forms part of the Universitys 2030 Strategy, which focuses on healthcare expansion and meeting regional workforce needs.

Design and construction were delivered with Expedite Design Services and Obedair.
Rainbow Living, the Exeter-based volunteer-led charity providing supported housing for adults with learning disabilities, has been named one of four Devon organisations to receive the 2025 Kings Award for Voluntary Service, the highest national honour given to volunteer groups.

The Kings Award, often described as the MBE for voluntary groups, recognises outstanding contributions made by volunteers across the UK.

Rainbow Living, founded in 2006, is almost entirely volunteer-run and provides supported living for 24 adults across four adapted homes in Exeter and one in Torquay.

The charity works with care providers, families and local partners to help tenants live as independently as possible.

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Ruth Airdrie MBE, a Director at Rainbow Living, said the award reflects nearly two decades of commitment from volunteers, trustees and supporters: We are deeply honoured to receive the Kings Award for Voluntary Service, she said.

This recognition is a tribute to the incredible commitment of our volunteers and the life-changing impact of inclusive housing. Rainbow Living volunteers are the heart of our mission.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, David Fursdon, also acknowledged the contribution of all four Devon recipients, describing their work as outstanding examples of volunteering across the county.

The other Devon winners are Basics Devon, Bob the Bus in Totnes, and Erme Valley Riding for the Disabled.

While each organisation represents a different part of the countys voluntary sector, Rainbow Livings award highlights Exeters role in providing inclusive, community-supported housing for adults with learning disabilities.

The charity hopes the national recognition will encourage more volunteers and supporters to join its work as it continues developing long-term housing solutions for people with additional needs.
John Richard Pike was born on August 14, 1921, the sole child of Richard and Edith Pike of Torre, Torquay.

With the opening of the new Torquay Library on Lymington Road in the centre area of Torre in 1938, John was soon employed in 1939 at the age of 17 working as a junior assistant tasked with obliterating all the racing tips and final results from our local newspapers. Designed to discourage people from gambling at the time, tips were judged as being harmful to the general public with access to this advice through public reading.

By the time Britain and France had declared war on Germany officially on September 3, 1939, John was already in the Home Guard, responsible for troops to patrol the coastline of Devon which meant marching in squads armed usually with a single rifle and15 rounds of ammunition in a vain hope they might repel any enemy invasion, should one ever land on British soil.

The whole situation was of course ludicrous although it was taken very seriously in that era. Thirty years on a television programme mirrored that situation in comedy during a popular BBC weekly series entitled Dad' Army.

Years later John let it be known that during his Home Guard troop days he was in fact typical of the stupid boy acted out in the TV series when playing the character Private Pike. Today many of us can recall that wonderful line in the script when the squad's leader Captain Mainwairing, having been surrounded by some German invaders shouts, out loudly - Pike don't tell them your name.

John then served in the RAF playing a part in the Normandy Landings after the British Army had entered France in 1944.

After the war ended in 1945 John immediately returned to civilian life and later joined a further education course to try and achieve some higher qualification in librarianship, when attending Loughborough University. On successfully completing the course he came home and took up the post of Torquay's Deputy Borough Librarian based in the central library of our three towns in Torbay.

By 1962 John had been promoted to Borough Librarian and was also made curator of one of Torquays museum's - Torre Abbey directly behind Abbey Lawn on the Torquay esplanade. Being a Civil Servant John was always viewed as popular and helpful and was well liked as a chief of staff.

He would serve virtually three decades of working for the Library service during which period he dealt with some pretty extra-ordinary incidents.

One was when dealing with the first ever strike of public sector workers in British Library history, as nine female employees saw fit to walk out of his library in protest after a Torquay (un-named) Councillor actually criticised them during an official meeting of the Library Committee in 1966.

The Councillor remarked they had not given service with a smile which at that time must have seemed pretty unusual, although in today's world of Human Rights, Health and Safety and Data Protection protection laws, would now see the comments being pretty serious and not amusing.

Another extra-ordinary event came two years later when the Great Train Robber Bruce Reynolds was arrested by Torquay police.

They found he had been residing in a property not far from the central library, having apparently been here for five years. During this period he was recorded as having regularly borrowed library books and amazingly used the alias  Keith Hiller.

In 1974 a Local Government Re-organisation saw John appointed South Devon Area Librarian - a promotion bringing huge responsibility as he now controlled 16 branches of libraries throughout the South Devon coast from Dawlish down to Salcombe.

In 1987 the BBC asked John to undertake research for them about the infamous local murderer John Lee, later used for a documentary presented by Melvyn Bragg. John Lee was the murderer in Torquay who survived three attempted hangings until when taken down, became famous as The Man they Could not Hang.
Circle Internet Group (CRCL) declined by 13% yesterday, which is the stock's biggest fall since June, due to market attention shifting from the strong performance in the third quarter to potential challenges to profitability in the coming period because of low bond yields. Having benefited from another spate of increased usage of USDC, revenue more than doubled from a year earlier, but notwithstanding this, market watchers focused intently on the fall in Circles reserve return rate, which is an important profitability driver that is pegged to U.S. Treasury yields.

The environment is tougher for interest-rate-sensitive fintech plays, and stablecoin issuers find themselves in the middle of this transition. As hopes of further decreases in interest rates intensify in international markets, interest-income-dependent companies find themselves repriced in the market. CRCLs recent earnings figures make this conflict clear, as CRCLs stock is now close to $85, which is a far cry from previous highs, at a time when even the crypto market faces macro-related challenges in international markets.

More News from Barchart

About Circle Stock

Circle Internet Group is one of the top issuers of the stablecoin USDC, functioning at the nexus of blockchain infrastructure, fintech, payment systems, and international markets for digital assets. Having its headquarters in Boston, CRCL has established itself as a vital link between conventional financial systems and tokenized dollars. As the circulation of USDC has doubled in a year, CRCL is established as a vital source of liquidity for crypto-trading, cross-border money transfers, and blockchain based business transactions.

CRCLs stock is also highly volatile, ranging between $64.00 and $298.99 in value in a period of 52 weeks. CRCLs stock is down by more than 16% over the past five trading days, further lagging large market leaders, including the S&P 500 Index ($SPX), due to increased worries about interest-rate sensitivity as well as derisking in digital asset equities.

www.barchart.com

From an intrinsic valuation perspective, more traditional metrics offer no clear indication of value because, for example, CRCL is now quoted at a higher multiple of revenue than most established fintech companies, but a high multiple is commonly attributed to young, high-growth infrastructure companies in the digital asset sector by investors.
Donald Trump is amazing; the best President the USA has ever had.

I may not entirely believe that, but I cannot afford to be sued for $1 billion.

I am not a lawyer. My only legal training was to learn a bit about criminal law for my exams as a police surgeon, but we did touch on the principles of civil law.

Before trying to sue there are two important caveats. First of all, ensure that any libel or slander is not true. This is how Oscar Wilde came to grief. The Marquess of Queensbury accused him of being gay, to use the modern term. He sued even though the allegation was true. Not only did he lose but ended up in prison for the offence of homosexuality.

Secondly any damages are only to compensate for any losses. Punitive Damages designed to punish a defendant are rare in England.

The selective editing of a Trump speech gave the impression that he was calling for violence. This may have been overegging the pudding but was not entirely fanciful. He denied that he lost the 2020 election despite the overwhelming evidence. He also said fight fight fight but an hour later.

After he became president, he granted blanket clemency to everyone, nearly 1,600 people, convicted or awaiting trial for the offences committed on 6th January Capitol riots. Many of these people claim they took violent action because they believed they were carrying out Trump's wishes. The BBC were wrong to imply that he encouraged the riot with an inflammatory speech but his behaviour since coming into office could be interpreted as tacit support.

It is also hard to see how he suffered $1 billion losses. The programme was British, not American. After it went out he won the election with an overwhelming majority.

President Trump has a track record in America of suing media organisations. It is possible that the underlying reason for this behaviour is to silence the media? Will any news organisation dare to publish anything critical of Trump however accurate the journalists are?

In the past I thought that the BBC had great unbiased news coverage. When Jeremy Corbyn complained that they were too right wing and Nigel Farage complained they were too left wing I concluded that they must have it about right.

The BBC does have a problem. Recently the newsreader Martine Croxall was found guilty of bias when she added women after the script said, pregnant people and pulled a face. She was showing her views so was guilty of bias but wasnt the person who wrote pregnant people instead of women also showing bias. It could be argued that she was correcting bias. She was also using language which is probably supported by the majority of the viewers.

There is also evidence that they were biased toward Hamas in the war in Gaza.

Some of the criticism of the BBC is coming from news organisations which have a clear political agenda. There is even righteous indignation coming from papers which have been found guilty of phone hacking.

When I first started writing in a local paper the editor told me to avoid party politics. Readers will be from all parties. Any obvious support for party X will upset all the readers who support parties Y and Z.

With the echo chamber of social media many people only read opinions which match their own. Anything which does not mirror their prejudices they see as biased. We need to learn from WS Gilbert who was asked why he only read the bad reviews of his shows. I know how good I am, but I do not know how bad I am.

The BBC has relied on being seen as the most trustworthy news outlet. They are also one of our best exports, trusted worldwide. I desperately want them to survive but this can only be guaranteed if they are seen to be objective. We will know when that day arrives when they upset both extremes.
The Albert Clock in Barnstaple is being lit up purple for the rest of November as part of a campaign to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer, after a request from the family of a local man who died from the disease aged just 62.

Steve Dobbs, from Chivenor, passed away in August 2024, just seven months after the disease was diagnosed.

The illumination of the clock tower in his memory is part of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, which runs throughout November, culminating in World Pancreatic Cancer Day on Thursday, November 20.

Above: Steve Dobbs, who died from pancreatic cancer aged just 62.

Steve moved to North Devon from London in 2019, after a career in the film industry as a technician  he had even worked on the Harry Potter film series.

His daughter Rachel said that before his illness, he was a fit, active man who had never smoked, did not drink to excess and would travel with his son Paul to watch their beloved Tottenham Hotspur, where he was a season ticket holder for 22 years.

In September 2023 he began to experience itchy legs and pain in his lower back. Rachel explained that as the pain worsened, his family nagged him to see a doctor, who initially thought it may have been a gallstone issue.

Initial scans did not reveal the problem, but in January 2024, after more tests, he was given the diagnosis, with a prognosis of between 10 and 12 months. He was then aged 61.

Rachel said: He had aggressive chemotherapy and really suffered through the chemotherapy.

And then they scanned him again and they said the chemo's not working. If you want it, you're more than welcome to carry on, but it's not doing anything. And if you were my dad, I would recommend you stop.

So he stopped. And then on August 16, 2024, he died.

Above: Steve Dobbs with his family  son Paul, wife Sally and daughter Rachel.

Rachel added: We were all in absolute shock and heartbroken. Dad and our family were supported through this horrendous time by our GP, Dr Susanna Hill and Caen Medical Centre, Braunton. I honestly don't know how we would have got through that year without her, as well as the district nurses, who were also fantastic.

What advice would Steves family have for anyone worried that they may have the symptoms of pancreatic cancer? To go to their doctor and insist on tests, said Rachel.

Pancreatic Cancer UK is funding research to develop a breath test that they want to be able to get into GP surgeries. Rachel added: They're very, very hopeful that this could be a breakthrough in the disease.

But the symptoms are just so vague. If you get a pain in your back, insist that they do tests, because if they don't do tests, then it's too late.

READ NEXT: How hospice kindness helped us on dads cancer journey

The Albert Clock is one of many landmarks being lit up across the UK during Pancreatic Cancer Awareness month and the day itself.

A spokesperson for Barnstaple Town Council said: The town council is proud to light the Albert Clock in purple, reflecting our continued support for community and national awareness campaigns.

Pancreatic cancer  what you should know

In the UK one person dies every hour.

There are 8,800 people diagnosed in the UK every year.

Pancreatic cancer has the lowest survival rate of all cancers, less than 7% of people in the UK survive five years or more.

The five-year survival rate has seen little improvement since the 1970s.

Pancreatic cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer in the UK, and predicted to become the fourth by 2030, overtaking breast cancer.

Pancreatic cancer receives around 1% of national cancer research funding.

80% of those diagnosed receive a late diagnosis, where the cancer has already metastasised and have around between two and six months survival.

Around 20% are diagnosed at a stage when they are eligible for surgery but only 10% are actually offered the surgery, the only treatment that can cure this disease.

48% of diagnosis are made by emergency admission.

More than 40% of patients visit their GP three times or more before being referred to hospital.

16% visit their GP or hospital seven times before a diagnosis is made.

Once the diagnosis is made, cancer experience surveys in England and Wales demonstrate pancreatic cancer experience is less than satisfactory compared to patients with other cancer types.

Pancreatic Cancer UK is trying to bring in a breath test to GP surgeries. This exciting step forward follows a two-year clinical study, in which scientists at Imperial College London analysed more than 700 breath samples from people with and without pancreatic cancer, as well as from those with other conditions affecting the pancreas.

Scientists are confident the highly promising test can detect the disease even in its earliest stages and hope that it could be used by GPs across the country within the next five years.

Symptoms of pancreatic cancer include:

Pain in stomach or back which may come and go

Unexplained weight loss

Nausea and vomiting

Pale or dark yellow/orange urine

Blood clots in a vein

Jaundice

For more information, visit www.pancreaticcancer.org.uk If you are worried, there is a support line  08088 010707 or support@pancreaticcancer.org.uk
After the Louvre heist last month, the internet became obsessed with the dapper gentleman in the photo above. This week, we learned his identity. Who is he?
Hanesbrands Inc. (NYSE:HBI) is one of the best cheap stocks under $10 to buy now. Hanesbrands Inc. (NYSE:HBI) received a rating update from Stifel Nicolaus analyst Peter McGoldrick on November 7, who maintained a Hold rating on the stock with a $6 price target.

Why Hanesbrands Inc. (HBI) Crashed Last Week?

The rating followed Hanesbrands Inc.s (NYSE:HBI) fiscal Q3 2025 earnings release on November 6. Steve Bratspies, CEO of Hanesbrands Inc. (NYSE:HBI), stated that the continued execution of the companys cost-saving initiatives resulted in operating margin expansion and operating profit growth, which, in conjunction with lower interest expense, drove a 25% growth in adjusted EPS in the quarter.

However, US net sales in the quarter dropped 4.5% compared to the previous year due to unanticipated shifts in ordering patterns at one of Hanesbrands Inc.s (NYSE:HBI) large retail partners, which had an effect on late-quarter replenishment orders. Despite the near-term sales challenge, Hanesbrands Inc. (NYSE:HBI) experienced a sequential improvement in unit point-of-sale trends each month during the quarter as it delivered notable performance during the key back-to-school period.

In addition, operating margin of 22.2% rose 20 basis points over the prior year period, driven by reduced input costs and the benefits of productivity and cost savings initiatives.

Hanesbrands Inc. (NYSE:HBI) designs, sources, manufactures, and sells basic apparel, including T-shirts, underwear, shape wear, socks, and activewear. The companys operations are divided into the US and International segments.

While we acknowledge the potential of HBI as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
Skeletal remains associated with a medieval monastery were found when a farmer levelled off some land at a gravel pit in south Offaly, Tullamore District Court heard.

Micheal Talbot (60), Annaghmore, Kinnitty, Birr, pleaded guilty to charges involving the disturbance of a national monument at Knockbarron, Kinnitty on a date unknown between April 4 and April 8, 2024.

Detective Garda Fergus Hogan, Birr Garda Station, told the court that on April 8 last year gardai in Birr received a report that skeletal remains were located at Knockbarron, Kinnitty by the excavation of soil within the previous two weeks.

Detective Garda Hogan visited the site and met two officials of the monument protection unit at the National Monuments Service.

Enquiries determined the site consisted of an old monastery and graveyard and following liaison with State Pathologist SallyAnne Collis, the garda was notified by her that the bones and skeletal remains that were unearthed were of ancient origin.

Following further enquiries it transpired that extensive skeletal material had been exposed as a result of works conducted.

Detective Garda Hogan handed photographs to Judge Andrew Cody and told him the monastery dated from the middle ages.

Defending solicitor Mr Martin said he believed it was from the sixth century.

After viewing the photographs Judge Cody said the offences were shocking and stated: This is a large scale industrial excavation of an ancient monument.

Garda Hogan said the work had been carried out at a gravel pit which had started to slip because of the weather and Mr Martin confirmed this, saying there had been torrential rain and two storms and one of his client's animals had fallen off the top of the pit.

The solicitor said there was a monastery and graveyard at the site, plus a surrounding area and it was at the surrounding area where the offences happened.

Judge Cody said a huge Hymac had been used, resulting in a huge heap of soil.

Mr Martin said the digging had taken place on Mr Talbot's land and he was aware he had to be careful because of the national monument nearby.

There was an emergency in his eyes at the time in the sense that an animal of his had died by falling off, said Mr Martin.

He decided to level off the land and in levelling it this is what happened. His client had fully engaged with the department and it took a while for the department to get back to him about a preservation order.

Owner and user of the land since 2011, he was aware the gravel pit was close to the monument but it was not one of about six points marked on the National Monuments register.

READ NEXT: Offaly publican planning scheme of townhouses

Detective Garda Hogan said the digging had taken place about 200 yards from the graveyard and he agreed with Mr Martin that the rain would have exposed the remains anyway.

The garda said there were many skulls, teeth and bones from different parts of the body and they were spread all over where the soil had been disturbed.

He detailed that Mr Talbot gave a full account of his role following his arrest in September last year and explained it was his belief that stripping back the topsoil was urgent because of the heavy and persistent rain and it was his fear that the weight of the topsoil might cause the remainder of the pit to collapse.

The man provided a receipt for a heifer that fell from the pit and that animal was valued at about 1,400.

Judge Cody remarked: These are monks who have rested in peace for 1,400 years. To be dug up by a Hymac, it's absolutely appalling.

He said he would have to consider whether he was going to accept jurisdiction but was reminded that he had done so when the matter was previously before the court.

Sergeant Brendan Kearns said the DPP had directed that the matter could be disposed of summarily and the judge was also told Mr Talbot had no previous convictions.

Judge Cody said his note from the previous court date was that land had been disturbed beside a graveyard but this was more serious and remains were thrown around like dirt in a field.

Mr Martin said his client had been told by the Department of Heritage that he would be allowed to put up a fence.

Judge Cody remanded Mr Talbot on continuing bail to appear in court again on January 14 next when an up to date report should be presented from the Department of Heritage on the remedial work at the site.

I regard this as a very serious matter, said the judge, adding he hoped the remainder of these monks could rest in peace for another 1,400 years without Mr Talbot taking a Hymac out again.

Mr Martin told him his client had been taking the matter very seriously.

Mr Talbot pleaded guilty to excavating, digging out or otherwise disturbing the ground in or in proximity to a recorded national monument (archaeological complex number OF036-028) without the consent of the National Monuments Service.

He also admitted failing to give notice in writing to the National Monuments Service of intended works to be conducted at the site of the recorded monument.
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A FLOATING Walkway is being planned for the Callows in Shannonbridge. A recent meeting of Offaly County Council was told that funding for this project, to the value of 218,275, was announced in July 2024 by Failte Ireland under the EU Just Transition Fund's Regenerative Tourism & Placemaking Scheme for Ireland's Midlands 2023 to 2026.

The project has engaged an architect led integrated team to design, up to planning stage, a proposed public amenity area in Shannonbridge, on a vacant site on the Main Street.

The team will design a Plaza area, together with the Floating Walkway over the site on the Shannon Callows, having completed the environmental assessments appropriate to the Callows and the adjoining habitat. A parking survey of the village will also be carried out.

Following a competitive tender competition, Daniel Woodroffe Group Ltd were appointed on September 1 to undertake the project. An open community engagement event was held on October 9 last in the Shannonbridge Community Centre for everyone in the community to share their thoughts and views on the proposed project. A member of the local community told the Tribune that in general the locals are positively engaged with the project and think it will be a good thing for the area. A second consultation session will take place in Shannonbridge Community Centre this Thursday November the 6th from 3pm to 7pm. Once again people are being invited to drop in and share their thoughts on the emerging designs for the Callows Plaza. If you are unable to attend and would like to share your views please email: streets@studiodwg.com

Meanwhile, the constructionwork by Waterways Ireland on a floating jetty in the village is nearly complete. Locals are very happy with this construction project, which consists of 108 metres of floating jetty along with an access ramp and a freeboard for canoe access. The jetty has been anchored by steel piles and has been anchored to a 2.5m square concrete plinth.

READ NEXT: ESB planning to demolish Shannonbridge Power Station in 2026
Foroige volunteers from across Ireland gather in Athlone for the 53rd annual volunteer conference celebrating the power of connection, community, and youth work

Foroige volunteers from all over Ireland gathered in Athlone, Co. Westmeath, from 7th9th November for the organisations 53rd Annual Volunteer Conference. The event brought together hundreds of dedicated volunteers to celebrate their vital role in supporting young people and communities across the country.

Opening the weekend at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dr. Wayne Travers, Chairperson of Foroige, welcomed attendees with words of gratitude and encouragement, This weekend holds a very special place in the Foroige calendar. Its our time, as volunteers, to reconnect, reflect, and remind ourselves of the incredible impact we have on young people and our communities, he said. The energy and dedication that each of you brings to Foroige are what make it such a vibrant and inspiring organisation.

The conference featured an engaging programme of speakers, workshops, and networking opportunities under the theme Creating Space for Young People to Be.

READ NEXT: Offaly businesses triumph at Midlands 103 annual hospitality awards

A highlight of the weekend was the keynote address from Dr. Colman Noctor, Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist and columnist, who spoke about the pressures facing young people today and the crucial role youth groups play in offering connection and belonging.

Youth groups are a traditional solution to a modern problem - and Ill keep banging that drum, Dr. Noctor said. Foroige provides a space for young people to gather, to simply be together. You do that better than anyone else.

He also reflected on the mindset volunteers bring to their work with young people Meet young people where theyre at, not where you want them to be, and approach them with empathy and curiosity. Sometimes the most meaningful thing we can offer young people is our time, our attention and a space where they feel they truly belong.

Volunteers also took part in interactive sessions about Citizenship, Leadership and Including Diverse Young People and Volunteers. The weekend also provided space for connection and fun, with group discussions, social activities, and plenty of opportunities for volunteers to share experiences and ideas.

Eric OBrien, CEO of Foroige, closed the conference by commending the volunteers for their continued dedication, Our volunteers are the heart of Foroige. Their belief in young people and their commitment to creating opportunities for growth and belonging are what drive everything we do. This conference is about celebrating that spirit and looking ahead to the next chapter of our shared work.

READ NEXT: Resurfacing works on N52 in Offaly caused traffic congestion admits council engineer
Philosophers have long since prepared us for the possibility of history repeating itself the first time as tragedy, the next farce. But they have seldom if ever spoken to the situation we now experience simultaneous tragedy and farce, the two seemingly inextricably intertwined. Likewise, while the idea of tragicomedy has been spoken of since the days of ancient Rome, it appears that up until now we've been able to do without recognizing a step beyond to tragifarce.

How else to think about, for instance, the case of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth? While he may be running neck and neck with Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem for best comedy performance by a U.S. Cabinet member in the twenty-first century (with apologies to RFK, Jr. partisans), this obviously does not mean that we can dismiss his activities as nothing more than the buffoonish episodes that they often are. Which is to say that we can neither ignore the tragic aspect of the rise to power of a man like that the lethal side of the tragifarce, as he himself might put it nor fail to consider how it is that he got there.

Individually, the former Fox and Friends talking head rose to prominence through his defense of members of the American military who were charged with killing prisoners and civilians, but as Matthieu Aikins emphasized in America's Vigilantes, his recent New York Times Magazinearticle on Trump administration foreign policy, Hegseth is also representative of a new attitude toward the military... emerging on the political right: for the troops, but against the generals.

The news media have certainly given substantial attention to what we might sardonically call the lighter side of Pete Hegseth e.g., his inclusion of his wife, brother, lawyer and the Editor in Chief of The Atlanticin highly confidential online group chats about then upcoming (illegal but not unprecedented) bombings of Yemen; berating a captive audience of military leaders about beardos, and fat generals, etc. So far as the more serious side of the Hegseth escapade goes, early coverage leaned toward his contributions to the administration's overall assault on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, wokeness, and other forms of political correctness an understandable enough focus, given the potential impact of his planned tear-downs upon substantial numbers of women and minorities in the military.

But ultimately its the changes he advocates for U.S. conduct of war that lie behind his appointment as Defense Secretary, a nomination so out-there as to require transporting Vice President JD Vance over to the Senate Chamber to cast the deciding vote to secure his confirmation (for only the second time in the history of U.S. cabinet appointments, the first having occurred in Trump's first term.) To put the principal Hegseth initiatives succinctly, we can say that he favors the military embracing greater lethality; and opposes any restraints placed upon that lethality by the Geneva conventions. This, regardless of the fact that the U.S. is a signatory to the 1949 international agreement on protection of civilians, wounded, and prisoners during the conduct of war, and is thereby committed to upholding it. While this new stance has also had some immediate direct effect on military personnel, thus far its mostly been a few judge advocate generals and others perceived as potential roadblocks to the planned new order. And given that this is a group generally not prone to making a great deal of noise if they are eighty-sixed, this aspect of the Trump/Hegseth military plan has at first been treated as less impactful.

The audience that Hegseth most directly plays to, on the other hand, is substantially larger. For a combination of reasons including the fact that the wars on terror as they were once known never involved a military draft; were primarily fought at such great distance from the U.S. in Afghanistan and Iraq; increasingly involved remote drone warfare; and droned on for over two decades it may come as a surprise to many that about 2 million Americans have been deployed to those wars since 2001. And indeed, apart from being perhaps over-represented in the ranks of congressional candidacies, this group of veterans has had a substantially lower public profile than their predecessors from the Vietnam War.

Among those 2 million, of course, were substantial numbers who were placed in harm's way in situations that often neither they nor their friends and family back home understood. And there was solid reason for this lack of understanding, in that neither the military leaders who commanded these troops, nor the political leaders who sent them, really understood the why and wherefore of those situations all that well themselves. As a result, when individuals like Army Captain Matthew Golsteyn or Navy Chief Petty Officer Edward Gallagher were charged with killing prisoners in Afghanistan and Iraq respectively there were a lot of people questioning why they were taking the fall when military higher-ups weren't.

As we know, Donald Trump moved to scoop up this constituency with his pardons of both officers, angering many military leaders along the way with this interference in the process. Hegseth has been even more direct in his appeal, telling the military and naval commanders corralled to the Quantico, Virginia Marine Corps Base on Sept. 30, We... don't fight with stupid rules of engagement, here offering something of a tragifarcical echo of the Mel Brooks line from the movie Blazing Saddles: We don't need no stinking badges. In their place Hegseth proposed, just common sense, maximum lethality and authority for warfighters.

Although he did not then specify which stupid rules he disdained, in his 2024 book, The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the American Military, he had posed the question, Should we follow the Geneva Conventions? What if we treated the enemy the way they treated us? Would that not be an incentive for the other side to reconsider their barbarism? He also answered his own question: "Our boys should not fight by rules written by dignified men in mahogany rooms 80 years ago."

Here again, it will not serve us well to simply roll our eyes and mutter about going backwards in history, without taking a penetrating look at where and why our government has sent our military in this millennium. And it is not to suggest any retreat on the principle that personal responsibility for actions taken in the course of warfare extends throughout the military top to bottom to also maintain that the responsibility doesnt stop there. Any decision to limit the discussion of American war crimes to whether its the grunts or the brass that bear primary responsibility assures that we will pass right by the point where that responsibility actually lies. We should also not allow the farcical aspects of Petes Great Defense Department Adventure to prevent opponents of our militarys current permanent-war standing from recognizing that there are some things that we may actually agree with him on.

If Hegseth wants to argue that American soldiers have been placed in situations they never should have been I think we agree. If he thinks that American soldiers were sent to fight wars they couldn't win I think we agree. And in the unlikely event that he were to go further and decide that American soldiers have been placed in wars that the U.S. should never have entered I also think we would agree there too.

Give Hegseth and his boss credit for truth-telling at least in their effort to rename the Defense Department the Department of War. As Hegseth told the silent military crowd in Quantico, We have to be prepared for war, not for defense. We're training warriors, not defenders. We fight wars to win, not to defend. Yes, for some time now, the U.S. Department of Defense has not primarily been true to its name. As a rule both sides to a war will uniformly insist that they are not the aggressors and are actually fighting in defense of something, and therefore justified, even though this clearly cannot be the case for both sides. They do so because much of the world does at least give lip service to the principle that wars that are not in fact fought in defense are illegitimate. So here we have the man now nominally in charge of pursuing U.S. military objectives acknowledging proclaiming really their illegitimacy. We might logically expect such a radical proclamation to be either hailed as revolutionary or denounced as revolting depending upon one's stance toward recent American foreign policy. The tragifarce of our age lies in the fact that for the most part neither has occurred. The jester-in-charge just revealed the truth! So what? He's a joke, isn't he?

In his above-mentioned book, Hegseth elaborated, "The key question of our generation--of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan--is way more complicated: what do you do if your enemy does not honor the Geneva conventions? We never got an answer. Only more war. More casualties. And no victory." He calls on the U.S. to ignore the 1949 agreements, writing "Would that not be an incentive for the other side to reconsider their barbarism? Hey, Al Qaeda: if you surrender, we might spare your life. If you do not, we will rip your arms off and feed them to hogs." (And you know, by now, that I'm not making this up.)

Again, while it can be difficult to offer a serious response to such Hegseth-talk, we can acknowledge the individual horrors of soldiers dealing with ambushes, improvised explosive devices, and everything else that goes with being sent to invade a foreign nation, while still insisting upon considering the larger overall situation. For instance, if we were to consider how many American civilians were killed by Iraqi or Afghani bombs delivered either by plane or drone compared with how many civilians of those two nations were killed by American bombs, we might have a very different take as to who's guilty of barbarism exactly the take that the populations of those countries have. It might even be enough to provide a glimmer of understanding of how some of the more extreme among them might decide that, We will rip your arms off and feed them to hogs.

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We do have friends in common, but what I really need is warm, close and intimate time alone with him. (Getty Images) Getty Images

Dear Annie: My husband and I moved from California to Florida four years ago to an active 55+ retirement community. Im retired at 62, but I look and act much younger. My husband is 52 and still working.

We never spend any time together. He works at the clubhouse all day because he has a need for constant socialization. I am, for the most part, happy at home with our dog and take one exercise class nearly every day. It should be noted that I taught primary school and then middle school for 20 years. I still feel the exhaustion from constantly being on during those school days, and I enjoy my quiet time now.

Heres the rub: My husband wont do anything unless its going out to dinner with other people, and he refuses to spend any time alone with me. He tells me to get some friends. We do have friends in common, but what I really need is warm, close and intimate time alone with him.

Our sex life is nonexistent. He tells me Im beautiful and that he finds me sexy, but thats where it ends. He just doesnt have any interest outside of playing bocce, having coffee with his friends or working. I feel empty and lonely. Ive tried to mention this to him again and again, but he just gets defensive.

Any suggestions? -- Troubled in Florida

Dear Troubled: Youre not asking for much -- just quality time with and attention from your partner. Thats a very reasonable request, not a demand. For him to tell you to get some friends when youre pleading with him to open up and let you in is dismissive and hurtful.

Have one more calm, honest discussion, focused not on blame but on connection. Tell him youre lonely and that you miss being close to him in a way you truly cant get from other friends. If he still shuts down, suggest couples counseling. If that fails, then youll need to decide if youre willing to continue living in this loveless limbo. You deserve true companionship, not just company.

Dear Annie: My friend Caleb and I have been close for six years. We met in college, stayed in touch and still talk almost every day. Hes been in a relationship for a while, but I recently realized I have feelings for him.

Weve never crossed any lines, but its getting harder to ignore my feelings. Ive tried dating other people, but no one compares. I dont think he sees me that way, and Im afraid bringing it up could ruin our friendship. But staying quiet is starting to hurt.

Should I tell him the truth or let it go? -- More Than Friends?

Dear More Than Friends: Telling him how you feel could mean rejection and possibly losing his friendship forever. Are your feelings strong and persistent enough to take that risk?

If so, silence wont protect your friendship. Tell him how you feel, but be clear that you respect his relationship and arent trying to interfere -- just being honest about where you stand.

If he doesnt feel the same, it will hurt, but it will free you to move forward with your eyes open.

Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM
The Oregon Department of Justice reached a settlement with MV Realty that ensures that hundreds of Oregon homeowners "dont owe MV Realty a dime," said Attorney General Dan Rayfield. Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media

Nearly 670 homeowners in Oregon whom the state says were locked into deceptive 40-year contracts with a real estate company will be freed from their contracts as part of a settlement, the state announced Friday.

MV Realty set out to use the lengthy contracts to extract thousands of dollars from each of the homeowners, or their children, according to the Oregon Department of Justice.

Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield called MV Realtys contracts an outrageous scheme, adding that the settlement ensures that the homeowners dont owe MV Realty a dime.

The Oregon Department of Justice says MV Realty paid the owners of 669 homes in Oregon as little as a few hundred dollars to sign contracts known as Homeowner Benefit Agreements. In exchange, the homeowners agreed to list their homes with the real estate company if they wanted to sell at any time in the next 40 years, according to the department.

State officials, however, say if the homeowners tried to refinance their mortgages for lower rates, take out home equity loans or sell their homes, theyd find themselves unable to do so because of liens the company filed on their homes. The liens were allowed by the contract.

When they tried to get out of it, (MV Realty) would say you owe us thousands of dollars, DOJ spokesperson Jenny Hansson said.

One couple told the Justice Department that they signed a contract with the company because one of them was disabled and the other had end-stage kidney disease.

We had no intention of moving, so it seemed like a deal, one spouse wrote, adding that the pair received $1,500 from the company.

As medical expenses mounted, the couple said they discovered that they couldnt take out a home equity line of credit because of a lien MV Realty had placed on their home. And the company told them theyd have to pay $12,500 to be free of their contract and proceed with the loan.

Oregon is not alone in cracking down on the company. California, Georgia and Florida, where the company is based, have secured court orders to stop the company from enforcing the contracts it signed with homeowners. In New Jersey, where more than 1,200 homeowners were affected, officials announced last month that the company must pay a $1.5 million penalty and another $1.3 million to reimburse homeowners who paid early contract termination fees to the company.

As part of Oregons agreement, MV Realty must pay the state $150,000 over the course of about four years. The amount will be reduced to $90,000 if it makes its first set of payments on time. The Justice Department said the company wont be required to make an additional $500,000 payment because of its inability to pay.

For a few hundred bucks, MV Realty tried to trap people in their 40-year contracts that stuck to their homes  and even their kids," Rayfield said in a news release. Thats not just a bad deal  thats cruel. Because of this settlement, those families are finally out from under it."

MV Realty couldnt be reached for comment for this story.
When it comes to giving tech companies our data, we have a certain amount of trust that they will protect it.

After all, we give them our most personal information, including Social Security numbers and passwords, with the expectation that they will keep it safe. Most of the time, that trust goes unquestioned. But every once in a while, its broken.

AT&Ts $177 million data-breach settlement is a stark reminder that even the biggest companies can put our data at risk.

AT&T customers may be eligible for a major settlement due to a data breach.Image source: Shutterstock

AT&T data breach will cost the company millions

AT&T Inc. has agreed to a $177 million settlement to resolve class-action lawsuits. These stemmed from two major data breaches that affected millions of current and former customers whose personal data ended up on the dark web.

The company did not admit wrongdoing but opted to settle to avoid prolonged litigation costs and risk.

We have agreed to this settlement to avoid the expense and uncertainty of protracted litigation, AT&T said in statement to AP News, adding that the company remains committed to protecting our customers data and ensuring their continued trust in us.

In March 2024, AT&T revealed it had exposed data from approximately 7.6 million current customers and 65.4 million former account holders, including Social Security numbers, birthdates, and passcodes. The sensitive information was posted online, as reported by AP.

Related: Verizon quietly makes aggressive move to stop fleeing customers

Later in 2024, the company revealed a second breach, this time involving unauthorized downloads of call- and text-related data from a cloud platform dating back to 2022.

AT&T stated the breach did not include the content of calls or texts.

Both incidents led to multiple lawsuits consolidated in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas.

The $177 million settlement resolves claims from both breaches.

Who qualifies for the potential AT&T payouts

The settlement is split into two sub-funds: roughly $149 million for the first breach (AT&T 1) and $28 million for the second (AT&T 2), also per AP.

Eligible claimants may receive:

Up to $5,000 for documented losses from the first breach (AT&T 1).

Up to $2,500 for documented losses from the second breach (AT&T 2).

Customers impacted by both breaches could qualify for combined payments up to $7,500, according to Business Insider.

Payouts will depend on documented losses linked to the breaches and the number of valid claims. They will also be subject to the deduction of administration and legal fees.

Deadlines and instructions for AT&T data-breach claims

To receive payment, claims must be submitted by December 18, 2025. Those wishing to opt out who then reserve the right to sue individually must do so by November 17, 2025.
A Salem woman died in a two-vehicle crash near Amity Thursday, Oregon State Police said.

Jamie Lynn Price, 45, crossed into oncoming traffic around 5:30 p.m. while driving southbound on Highway 153 in a Hyundai accent, then crashed head-on into a Chevrolet Bolt that was going in the opposite direction, police said in a statement Friday.

Price, who was not wearing a seat belt, was declared dead at the scene, police said. The 64-year-old driver of the other car, Scot Bradford Ragsdale, of Dundee, suffered minor injuries, police said.

Police do not know why Price drove into oncoming traffic.

Police said they dont know why Price crossed the centerline. She was declared dead at the scene.
Attorney General Pam Bondi said Friday that she has ordered a top federal prosecutor to investigate sex offender Jeffrey Epsteins ties to Trump political foes, including former President Bill Clinton. AP/FILE AP

NEW YORK  Acceding to President Donald Trumps demands, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said Friday that she has ordered a top federal prosecutor to investigate sex offender Jeffrey Epsteins ties to Trump political foes, including former President Bill Clinton.

Bondi posted on X that she was assigning Manhattan U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton to lead the probe, capping an eventful week in which congressional Republicans released nearly 23,000 pages of documents from Epsteins estate and House Democrats seized on emails mentioning Trump.

Trump, who was friends with Epstein for years, didnt explain what supposed crimes he wanted the Justice Department to investigate. None of the men he mentioned in a social media post demanding the probe has been accused of sexual misconduct by any of Epsteins victims.

Hours before Bondis announcement, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform that he would ask her, the Justice Department and the FBI to investigate Epsteins involvement and relationship with Clinton and others, including former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers and LinkedIn founder and Democratic donor Reid Hoffman.

Trump, calling the matter the Epstein Hoax, involving Democrats, not Republicans, said the investigation should also include financial giant JPMorgan Chase, which provided banking services to Epstein, and many other people and institutions.

This is another Russia, Russia, Russia Scam, with all arrows pointing to the Democrats, the Republican president wrote, referring to special counsel Robert Muellers investigation of alleged Russian interference in Trumps 2016 election victory over Bill Clintons wife, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

The presidents demand for an investigation  and Bondis quick acquiescence  is the latest example of the erosion of the Justice Departments traditional independence from the White House since Trump took office.

It is also an extraordinary attempt at deflection. For decades, Trump himself has been scrutinized for his closeness to Epstein  though like the people he now wants investigated, he has not been accused of sexual misconduct by Epsteins victims.

None of Trumps proposed targets were accused of sex crimes

A JPMorgan Chase spokesperson, Patricia Wexler, said the company regretted associating with Epstein but did not help him commit his heinous acts.

The government had damning information about his crimes and failed to share it with us or other banks, she said. The company agreed previously to pay millions of dollars to Epsteins victims, who had sued arguing that the bank ignored red flags about criminal activity.

Clinton has acknowledged traveling on Epsteins private jet but has said through a spokesperson that he had no knowledge of the late financiers crimes. He also has never been accused of misconduct by Epsteins known victims.

Epstein pleaded guilty in Florida in 2008 to soliciting prostitution from an underage girl, but was spared a long jail term when the U.S. attorney in Florida agreed not to prosecute him over allegations that he had paid many other children for sexual acts. After serving about a year in jail and a work release program, Epstein resumed his business and social life until federal prosecutors in New York revived the case in 2019. Epstein killed himself while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.

Summers and Hoffman had nothing to do with either case, but both were friendly with Epstein and exchanged emails with him. Those messages were among the documents released this week, along with other correspondence Epstein had with friends and business associates in the years before his death.

Nothing in the messages suggested any wrongdoing on the mens part, other than associating with someone who had been accused of sex crimes against children.

Summers, who served in Clintons cabinet and is a former Harvard University president, previously said in a statement that he has great regrets in my life and that my association with Jeffrey Epstein was a major error of judgement.

Message seeking comment were left for Hoffman through his investment firm, Greylock. Hoffman bankrolled writer E. Jean Carrolls sexual abuse and defamation lawsuit against Trump.

After Epsteins sex trafficking arrest in 2019, Hoffman said hed only had a few interactions with Epstein, all related to his fundraising for MITs Media Lab. He nevertheless apologized, saying that by agreeing to participate in any fundraising activity where Epstein was present, I helped to repair his reputation and perpetuate injustice.

Bondi, in her post, praised Clayton as one of the most capable and trusted prosecutors in the country and said the Justice Department will pursue this with urgency and integrity to deliver answers to the American people.

Clayton, the chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission during Trumps first term, took over in April as U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York  the same office that indicted Epstein and won a sex trafficking conviction against Epsteins longtime confidante, Ghislaine Maxwell, in 2021.

Trump changes course on Epstein files

Trump suggested while campaigning last year that hed seek to open up the governments case files on Epstein, but changed course in recent months, blaming Democrats and painting the matter as a hoax amid questions about what knowledge he may have had about Epsteins yearslong exploitation of underage girls.

On Wednesday, Democrats on the House Oversight Committee released three Epstein email exchanges that referenced Trump, including one from 2019 in which Epstein said the president knew about the girls and asked Maxwell to stop.

White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt accused Democrats of having selectively leaked emails to smear Trump.

Soon after, Republicans on the committee disclosed a far bigger trove of Epsteins email correspondence, including messages he sent to longtime Trump ally Steve Bannon and to Britains former Prince Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. Andrew settled a lawsuit out of court with one of Epsteins victims, who said she had been paid to have sex with the prince.
If you think Oregons place names were carefully chosen for their historical or geographical significance, think again.

On this archived episode of the Peak Northwest podcast, co-hosts Jamie Hale and Vickie Connor dive into the bizarre, often accidental origins behind some of the states most peculiar place names.

Generative AI was used to summarize a recent episode of the Peak Northwest podcast. This story was reviewed and edited by The Oregonian/OregonLive.

Take Hart Mountain in Lake County, for example. The majestic landmark wasnt named for any person named Hart, as you might assume. Instead, as Hale reveals, it was named by ranchers who simply couldnt spell.

It was originally settled by a couple of ranchers who used a heart-shaped cattle brand, they didnt know how to spell the word heart and so they spelled it H-A-R-T instead of H-E-A-R-T, Hale explained. Remarkably, this spelling error was preserved in the official place name.

Warner Peak is the crest of Hart Mountain in southeast Oregon, reachable by a rugged, off-trail trek through the high desert wilderness. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

The podcast, which uses Lewis McArthurs reference book Oregon Geographic Names as its source material, uncovers equally strange stories behind other well-known locations. Viento State Park in the Columbia River Gorge presents another fascinating case of naming decisions.

While many visitors may assume the name comes from the Spanish word for wind (given the areas famously windy conditions), that isnt the case at all. The name Viento is a combination of three names of railroad businessmen: Villard, Endicott and Tolman. So VI for Villard, EN for Endicott and TO for Tolman.

This accidental linguistic coincidence delights the hosts, with Connor exclaiming over the crazy coincidence that an acronym of railroad investors names happens to match the Spanish word perfectly describing the areas most notable feature.

Perhaps the most eyebrow-raising revelation concerns Rooster Rock, a prominent formation in the Columbia River Gorge.

Beachgoers enjoy a day at Rooster Rock State Park in this 1965 photo. The place once had a cruder name. Oregonian File Photo

The modern name is of phallic significance, Hale reads from the book, explaining that early settlers gave the formation a different name, a rhyming name that at some point people were like, we cant call it that... they changed it to Rooster Rock instead.

These peculiar origins reveal how place names often reflect the personalities, mistakes, and sometimes crude humor of those who first documented these locations.

Throughout the episode, Hale and Connor express genuine surprise and delight at these revelations, demonstrating how even lifelong Oregonians can discover new layers of meaning in familiar places. As they point out, once these names became universally used they were incredibly difficult to change, enshrining these quirks and coincidences permanently on our maps.

Listen to the full episode here:
Jackie Merlos is a Portland resident who was detained in Washington for four months. Originally from Honduras, she has a pending U visa which allows victims of crime to legally remain in the country. She was released from the immigration detention center in Tacoma on October 27, 2025. Allison Barr/The Oregonian

Four little sets of arms flung open.

Mommy, Mommy, Mom, yippee, the children exclaimed as they rushed to embrace their mother.

Its no exaggeration to say theyd been waiting for this moment for months.

U.S. immigration authorities arrested their mother, 44-year-old Jackie Merlos, at Peace Arch Historical State Park on the Canadian border in late June and didnt release the Portland woman until Oct. 27.

The children  triplets who are 9 and a boy who is 7  had been with Merlos at the park to see family who live in Canada and were detained alongside Merlos for about two weeks in northern Washington, despite the fact the children are U.S. citizens. Their visiting grandmother was also detained.

So began their harrowing experience with President Donald Trumps increasingly aggressive and indiscriminate immigration dragnet, which has upended the lives of a growing number of people in Oregon, including many like Merlos who have lived lawfully in the United States.

Last week it ended in the Portland home of family friends Mimi Lettunich and Kris Wigger, who welcomed the children into their house in mid-July and became temporary guardians as U.S. officials deported the womans husband to their native Honduras.

I was living day by day, Merlos said.

Jackie Merlos is a Portland resident who was detained in Washington for four months. Originally from Honduras, she has a pending U visa which allows victims of crime to legally remain in the country. She was released from the immigration detention center in Tacoma on October 27, 2025. Allison Barr/The Oregonian

Days were so long

Merlos has a pending U visa that allows victims of crime to remain in the country legally, but that didnt stop U.S. Customs and Border Protection from arresting her and accusing her of alien smuggling  a charge the federal government later dropped even as it continued to detain her.

Last week, Merlos described the months-long ordeal in her words for the first time shortly after her release.

At first her children were with her at a U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility in Ferndale, Washington.

We couldnt see the light of the day, she said. Days were so long.

At one point, immigration authorities threatened to place her children in foster care. They cried non-stop for two hours, she said, but she tried to assure them agents wouldnt take them away from her.

I had to be strong for them. I had to fight for them, she said. Im glad that I survived.

Merlos and Mimi Lettunich are family-friends of about 20 years. Lettunich took in all four of Merlos' children, and fought to get Merlos out of the Tacoma detention center. Allison Barr/The Oregonian

She said she was pressured by immigration authorities to sign a self-deportation form multiple times.

Immigration authorities also drove her to her Portland home and entered without a warrant, to look for her childrens passports. The agents, she said, then proceeded to rummage through her house.

They couldnt find the passports, just the childrens birth certificates.

But the federal government then expedited new passports for them, preparing to send them to Honduras from Seattle. Merlos said an agent even asked her kids: Are you guys happy that you guys are going to fly to Honduras?

A federal judge in Seattle blocked the familys deportation in mid-July. The children were then released, but the government continued to detain Merlos, transferring her to the immigration detention center in Tacoma where her mother was being held. (Her mother was released in late September.)

They treated us like trash, Merlos said.

Merlos spent much of the time praying with other women at the Tacoma detention center.

I was reading the Bible, preaching to them, singing, she said. I had to do something. I was speaking to people about God. Im glad that God gave me so much strength.

Returning to her kids has been bittersweet because her husband is now thousands of miles away in Honduras, and she has mounting debt from the bills they couldnt pay while she was detained and he was deported.

Climbing out of debt and getting back on her feet wont be easy, she said, but her children will be the hardest hit.

My kids are suffering, she said, adding that they really missed their dad. This is not affecting their childhood. This is affecting their whole life. My kids are not the same.

Luz Maria Garcini, director of community and public health at the Kinder Institute for Urban Research, said family separation can have profound and long-lasting psychological, physical, behavioral and functional impacts on children.

Garcini said research has shown these effects can last into adulthood.

Jackie Merlos is a Portland resident who was detained in Washington for four months. Originally from Honduras, she has a pending U visa which allows victims of crime to legally remain in the country. She was released from the immigration detention center in Tacoma on October 27, 2025. Allison Barr/The Oregonian

Some of the effects can lead to anxiety, depression, fear of abandonment, behavioral problems, sleep difficulties, chronic stress, and somatic illnesses, said Garcini, who is also an associate professor at Rice University. Many children experience a sense of instability and hyper vigilance that can persist long after the separation.

Now that shes free, Merlos said shes speaking out on behalf of others.

I am one of the cases, or thousands of cases, that have been going through all of this, and people are so afraid, she said.

Shes already seen the worst of it. She added: Im not afraid.
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The Landman returns to television tonight with Season 2, Episode 1, premiering Sunday, Nov. 16 at 12 a.m. PT on Paramount+. The show follows the story of Billy Bob Thorntons character during the Texas oil boom, and continues following him on his journey. Watch for free with a trial of Paramount+.

 Dont have cable? If you dont have cable, you still can watch The Landman Season 1 and 2 for free with Paramount+ (free trial).

How can I watch The Landman Season 2?

What: The Landman Season 2

When: Sunday, Nov. 16 at 12 a.m. PT (new episodes every week)

TV Channel: Paramount+

Watch the show live streaming online: If you dont have cable, you still can watch The Landman Season 2 LIVE for free with Paramount+ (free trial). If youre out of trials you can sign up starting at $8.99/month.

Who is in the cast of The Landman Season 2?
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Tech job postings on the hiring platform Indeed have been declining globally since their peak in late 2022. By 2025, postings had fallen below pre-pandemic levels everywhere, though the drop has been less severe in emerging market economies.

European countries have seen some of the largest declines, while several Middle Eastern economies have experienced strong growth over the last five years.

So, how have tech job postings changed? Which European countries have recorded the biggest declines?

What are 'tech jobs'?

Indeed classifies tech and mathematics roles under four categories: software development; information design and technology; IT operations and help desk; and mathematics.

Among the 27 countries analysed, European nations saw the steepest fall in tech job postings between 1 February 2020 and 31 October 2025, based on a seven-day moving average.

In absolute terms, the decline exceeded 40% in Switzerland (-46%) and the UK (-41%), with France (-39%) close behind.

The United States showed a similar trend, with a decline of 35%. Austria (-34%), Sweden (-32%) and Germany (-30%) were also at comparable levels.

Other European countries experienced more moderate drops: Ireland (-22%), Italy (-16%), Belgium (-14%), the Netherlands (-12%) and Poland (-10%).

Across all 27 countries tracked by Indeed, global tech postings fell by 18%.

A new AI era, marked by ChatGPT

Both Europe and North America experienced a boom in tech job postings coming out of the pandemic that around 2022 began reversing into a bust, Brendon Bernard, senior economist at Indeed, told Euronews Business.

He said the tech sector appears to have undergone an intensified version of broader shifts in employer hiring appetite, with demand fading as the economic backdrop weakened.

As the macroeconomic situation was already turning, we entered the new AI era, marked by ChatGPT going public, which has potentially added a further hit to demand for certain  particularly entry-level  tech jobs, he added.

Spain and Luxembourg were the only European countries among the 13 analysed where tech job postings did not decline between February 2020 and October 2025. Postings in rose 21% in Spain and 37% in Luxembourg.

Bernard noted that tech postings in Spain are down from their mid-2022 peak but have not reversed their earlier boom to the same extent as in other advanced economies. This could be related to broader strength in the Spanish economy, which has helped keep overall job postings relatively stable in recent years, he said.

Postings more than doubled in Middle Eastern economies

Several Middle Eastern countries recorded some of the largest increases in tech postings over this period.
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(Reuters) -Tesla is now requiring its suppliers to exclude China-made components in the manufacturing of its cars in the United States, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday.

The Elon Musk-led automaker and its suppliers have already replaced some China-made components and aim to switch all other components to those made outside of China in the next year or two, the report said, citing people familiar with the situation.

Tesla did not immediately respond to a Reuters' request for comment outside regular business hours. Reuters could not immediately verify the report.

Executives have struggled with fluctuating tariffs in the U.S.-China trade dispute, complicating pricing strategies, the Journal added.

Tesla has been increasing North American sourcing for its U.S. factories for two years amid tariff threats, Reuters reported in April.

Earlier this month, data from the China Passenger Car Association showed that Tesla's China-made electric vehicle sales fell 9.9% to 61,497 units in October from a year earlier, reversing a 2.8% increase in September.

Output of the Model 3 and Model Y from its Shanghai plant, including exports, dropped 32.3% from September.

Tensions between the two countries have left car executives in triage mode throughout 2025. U.S. President Donald Trumps on-again, off-again tariffs and bouts of industry panic over potential rare-earth bottlenecks and chip shortages have auto companies rethinking their reliance on China, an important source of parts and raw materials.

General Motors this week told thousands of suppliers to remove China-made components from their supply chains.

(Reporting by Harshita Meenaktshi and Anusha Shah in Bengaluru, Editing by Louise Heavens)
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OU Daily earned four honors in the 53rd annual national advertising competition hosted by College Media Business and Advertising Managers.

During the CMBAM conference at Fullerton, California, on Saturday, Nov. 8, it was announced that OU Daily staff won second place for its special sections, the Election Guide and Graduation Guide. Special sections from Cherry Creative at Western Kentucky University earned top honors while State News Media Group at Michigan State University finished third.

OU Daily staffers also won individual awards  first place for best social media promotion and second place for outdoor promotion and sponsored content.

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Gina Smith, who designed a series of social media ads for Picklemans Gourmet Cafe on Campus Corner, placed first in best social media promotion.

Terry Chanda Chishimba, who also has won honors the past two years, placed second in best outdoor promotion for the OU Daily Know Sooner digital billboard that ran on Interstate 35.

Cale Childs placed second in best sponsored content for a video featuring OU spring powwow sponsored by the Division of Student Affairs. The award is the first honor for the newly launched OU Daily creative services staff.

Smith, who graduated in May and is now the advertising coordinator for The Norman Transcript, said the Daily helped her grow as a designer.

The Daily was my first real design job, and it gave me real-world experience and the confidence to do what I do today. Im incredibly proud of those designs, and its rewarding to see my work reach such a wide audience.

Read full list of 2025 CMBAM winners.

Best Special Section

1st: Cherry Creative, Western Kentucky University

2nd: OU Daily, University of Oklahoma

3rd: State News Media Group, Michigan State University

Best Out-Of-Home (Outdoor) Promotion

1st: Rocky Mountain Student Media Company, Colorado State University

2nd: OU Daily, University of Oklahoma

3rd: Daily Titan, California State University Fullerton

HM: The McKinley Avenue Agency, Ball State University
Dear Eric: Many companies are training their employees to be friendlier. Now, when I go to pay for my groceries or have bloodwork done at a lab, someone invariably asks me, so what are you doing the rest of your day? I find that to be very intrusive from someone I dont know and may never see again.

I understand they have been trained so it isnt necessarily their fault, but I need a better response than who wants to know? or why are you asking me this?  Trying to Keep Boundaries

Dear Boundaries: Something general and meaningless can help divert small talk such as this. Oh, not sure or enjoying it, I hope or this and that. These are empty calorie phrases that keep the ball in the air without forcing you to divulge anything you dont want to divulge.

Its also helpful to keep the context of these questions in mind. These people arent prying. As you said, theyre trained to make small talk so that customers feel comfortable. Depersonalizing the ask can help. When someone asks, what are you doing for the rest of the day? remind yourself that this is not actually a question designed for you. Theyre talking to you, but theyre not actually talking to you, if that makes sense.

Its also fine to assert your internal boundary in a friendly but direct way. Thanks for asking, but Im not much of a chatter. I hope youre having a good day, though.

While grieving, I want to help my terminally ill friend

Dear Eric: My closest friend of many years has recently revealed the sad news that she has terminal cancer. She is one of those rare humans that most people have an instant connection to, and then they become fast friends.

In addition to being close friends, we were colleagues who often worked closely together, traveled together and shared many common friends, work friends, vendors and clients. Several decades worth of projects and likely in the hundreds of people within that group.

There is a very small group (less than five people) of us whom she has shared the news with. She has expressed her preference to not share details with our greater community until she can get her bearings with diagnosis and treatment; however, she will eventually want us to tell friends her story and status updates.

Our small group is aligned on supporting her in any way and her wishes; she does not have a significant other or family to help her shoulder the burden.

What are the words to inevitably use when I share the information to our work community knowing theyre more than just colleagues? How do I grieve with others as they learn her prognosis and safeguard my own emotional state as I share her story?

I dont know how to navigate this all without breaking down anytime I think about it or talk about her situation.  Grieving Best Friend

Dear Best Friend: Im sorry for what your friend is going through, and what youre facing as well. This is hard. And its fine if you have the capacity to hold your friend through it but not enough left over to help others process.

With regard to the words, youre going to want to take your cue from your friend in terms of how much she wants shared. When she indicates shes ready for the larger community to know, ask her about her boundaries, her wishes for communication and what places feel too exposed. Sometimes, something brief, compassionate, and direct can give people the information they need and guidance about how to respond. Heres one potential:

I want to share some very hard news about our colleague and friend. Shes received a diagnosis of [diagnosis]. [Here you might add a sentence about her prognosis or how shes doing, depending on your friends wishes.] As you can imagine, this is an overwhelming time. Instead of calls or emails, our friend is asking that any communication about updates go through [either list a designated updater or a health update site like CaringBridge.org]

Resist the urge to preemptively memorialize in this message; instead, you can share your grief, your fears and your memories with the small group and with others in your personal circle that you trust.

To protect yourself, I encourage you to look into one of the update sites, rather than directing people to reach out to one of you about whats going on. Its in our nature as people to slide from questions to processing. These sites provide a buffer that will give you the needed space to safeguard your emotions.

Others may want to know more or to offer sympathies, but the most important thing right now is that the people closest to your friend, you included, have the capacity to fully show up for your friend.

Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at eric@askingeric.com or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com.
Govini, the defense company founded by a Pa. man charged with soliciting sex from a minor, has a $900 million contract with the U.S. Department of Defense, headquartered at the Pentagon. (Alex Brandon | AP Photo) Alex Brandon | AP Photo

A Pennsylvania man charged with soliciting sexual contact online from someone he thought was a girl has been fired and kicked off the board of directors for the lucrative defense technology firm he founded.

Eric Gillespie, a 57-year-old Pittsburgh resident, founded Govini, described by CNBC.com as a start-up based in Arlington, Va.

The company last month exceeded $100 million in annual recurring revenue and received a $150 million investment from Bain Capital, reported CNBC.

CNBC said Govini has a contract with the U.S. government for over $900 million and works with the Department of Defense. The Pentagon told CNBC that it was reviewing the case for any security risks.

In a statement sent to PennLive, Govini said Gillespie left as CEO nearly 10 years ago and did not have access to classified information.

Govini is an organization that has been built by over 250 people who share a profound commitment to Americas national security, including veterans, reservists, and people who have dedicated their lives to causes greater than themselves, said the companys statement.

The actions of one depraved individual should not in any way diminish the hard work of the broader team and their commitment to the security of the United States of America, the company said.

Gillespie is charged in Lebanon County with three counts of unlawful contact with a minor and a single count of criminal use of a communication facility. He was denied bail as a flight risk and is being held in the Lebanon County Prison ahead of a Nov. 20 preliminary hearing.

According to Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday, Gillespie began an online chat with an attorney general agent who he believed was a preteen girl living in Lebanon County and tried to arrange a meeting with her.

The investigation turned up evidence concerning Gillespies contact with other children, Sundays statement said.

CNBC reported that Gillespie is considered a government transparency expert who was appointed to the Freedom of Information Act Advisory Committee in 2014 during the Obama administration.
Famed economist Mohamed El-Erian delivered a stark warning about the evolving global economy, stating that while the underlying system remains intact, investors should brace for significant individual losses within the Artificial Intelligence (AI) sector and expect numerous credit accidents.

Speaking at Yahoo! Finance Invest, El-Erian framed the current environment as one in which cockroaches abound but termites do not. This differentiation is fundamental: cockroaches are unpleasant accidents that come in groups but do not eat away at the integrity of the system. Termites, conversely, erode the foundation.

While systemic shock is unlikely, the President of Queens College, Cambridge University, and Chief Economic Advisor at Allianz said he expects economic and credit accidents because market participants have stretched really far for additional returns. This has been encouraged by loose financial conditions and a strong economy, he added, and some investors seem to have gone beyond their comfort zone and beyond their ability to do due diligence.

The rational AI bubble

El-Erian told Yahoo that he had, in collaboration with Nobel Laureate Mike Spence, assessed the AI boom and concluded that the market is experiencing a rational bubble. While the aggregate value being created is significant, making it rational for investors to take a venture capital approach and overinvest due to the large payoff, there is a darker side: there will be tears and losses.

He said elements of this bubble mirror past speculative periods, such as the dot-com era, where companies applied a labelnow AIto their operations to attract capital. Further contributing to the bubble elements is the fact that foundational model companies are attracting significant investment, yet not all of them are going to succeed.

A key concern for El-Erian is the inadequate focus on diffusionthe process of getting AI into the workplace in a comprehensive and orderly manner. The U.S. currently lacks a comprehensive diffusion policy, unlike countries such as China and the UAE. If diffusion is not handled correctly, he added, the full promise of AI wont be realized.

Regarding corporate adoption, El-Erian noted his concern about the prevailing corporate mindset, which currently views AI primarily as a cost minimizer. The true potential of AI, he argued, lies in labor enhancement and serving as a productivity enabler. If the U.S. gets diffusion right, the resulting significant productivity increase could allow monetary policy to be looser than it would otherwise have been.
By ALANNA DURKIN RICHER and CHRIS MEGERIAN, The Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP)  President Donald Trump has issued two pardons related to the investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021 riot, including for a woman convicted of threatening to shoot FBI agents who were investigating a tip that she may have been at the Capitol, officials said Saturday.

In a separate case, Trump issued a second pardon for a Jan. 6 defendant who had remained behind bars despite the sweeping grant of clemency for Capitol rioters because of a separate conviction for illegally possessing firearms.

Trump supporters clashed with police and security forces at the US Capitol Building in Washington, DC, on Jan. 6, 2021. Trump pardoned 1,500 rioters and others. (Photo by Joseph Prezioso / AFP, file) AFP via Getty Images

Its the latest example of Trumps willingness to use his constitutional authority to help supporters who were scrutinized as part of the Biden administrations massive Jan. 6 investigation that led to charges against more than 1,500 defendants.

Suzanne Ellen Kaye was released last year after serving an 18-month sentence in her threats case. After FBI contacted her in 2021 about a tip indicating she may have been at the Capitol on Jan. 6, she posted a video on social media citing her Second Amendment right to carry a gun, and she threatened to shoot agents if they came to her house.

In court papers, prosecutors said her words were part of the ubiquity of violent political rhetoric that causes serious harm to our communities.

An email seeking comment was sent to a lawyer for Kaye on Saturday. Kaye testified at trial that she didnt own any guns and didnt intend to threaten the FBI, according to court papers. She told authorities she was not at the Capitol on Jan. 6 and wasnt charged with any Capitol riot-related crimes.

A White House official said Kaye suffers from stress-induced seizures, and experienced one when the jury read its verdict. The White House said this is clearly a case of disfavored First Amendment political speech being prosecuted and an excessive sentence. The official requested anonymity because they werent authorized to publicly discuss the case.

In a separate case, Trump pardoned Daniel Edwin Wilson of Louisville, Kentucky, who was under investigation for his role in the riot when authorities found six guns and roughly 4,800 rounds of ammunition in his home. Because of prior felony convictions, it was illegal for him to possess firearms.

Wilsons case became part of a legal debate over whether Trumps sweeping pardons for Jan. 6 rioters in January applied to other crimes discovered during the sprawling federal dragnet that began after the attack on the Capitol. The Trump-appointed federal judge who oversaw Wilsons case criticized the Justice Department earlier this year for arguing that the presidents Jan. 6 pardons applied to Wilsons gun offense.

Wilson, who had been scheduled to remain in prison until 2028, was released Friday evening following the pardon, his lawyer said on Saturday.

We are grateful that President Trump has recognized the injustice in my clients case and granted him this pardon, attorney George Pallas said in an email. Mr. Wilson can now reunite with his family and begin rebuilding his life.

The White House official Saturday that because the search of Mr. Wilsons home was due to the events of January 6, and they should have never been there in the first place, President Trump is pardoning Mr. Wilson for the firearm issues.

Wilson had been sentenced in 2024 to five years in prison after pleading guilty to conspiring to impede or injure police officers and illegally possessing firearms at his home.

Prosecutors had accused him of planning for the Jan. 6 riot for weeks and coming to Washington with the goal of stopping the peaceful transfer of power. Authorities said he communicated with members of the far-right Oath Keepers extremist group and adherents of the antigovernment Three Percenters movement as he marched to the Capitol.

Prosecutors cited messages they argued showed that Wilsons plans were for a broader American civil war. In one message on Nov. 9, 2020, he wrote: Im willing to do whatever. Done made up my mind. I understand the tip of the spear will not be easy. Im willing to sacrifice myself if necessary. Whether it means prison or death.

Wilson said at his sentencing that he regretted entering the Capitol that day but got involved with good intentions.

Politico first reported Wilsons pardon on Saturday.
Country music fans trying to catch Morgan Wade in concert might want to catch one of the final handful of shows she shared on social media this week because she is planning to take some time off.

The 30-year-old made the announcement on Instagram.

Hey yall, Wade said in a video shared to her account. I just want to take a minute to talk about a couple of things. One, thank you. Its been about 500 shows in the last, I guess, technically three and a half years, amazing, maybe even more than that, my math is off.

I have been to a lot of places that this small town girl never thought that she would get to go to, she continued. I have done a lot of things. I have met a lot of people. I couldnt have done any of that without you guys buying tickets and listening to my songs. Im forever grateful for that. So I just really want to say thank you.

Im going to be taking some time off from touring, she added. Im not going to be doing as much as I have been. There are a lot of things that Im working on outside of the music world. There are a lot of things that I havent had time to do, and Im going to go do that and take a bit of a vacation and experience some life.

Along with the video, she shared a list of dates  Dec. 16 in Lynchburg, Virginia, Dec. 17 in Roanoke, Virginia, Dec. 18 in Winston Salem, North Carolina and Dec. 19 in Bristol, Tennessee  and wrote, Thank you guys for the last several years. Time for me to take a little break from touring and work on some new things. Still a few shows left for the year.

Wade is a native of Floyd, Virginia. She has released five albums, the latest  Obsessed and the Party is Over  coming this year.
Popular TV chef and cookbook author Mynie Steffens has died in a helicopter crash in South Africa, according to multiple reports.

The helicoptor reportedly being piloted by the 43-year-old crashed on Nov. 10 at a citrus farm.

SABC News reported that Steffens was spraying oranges with pesticides when she hit some power lines and went down at around 8 a.m.

Information that is at our disposal indicates that the pilot was conducting a pest control operation flight when the helicopter struck power lines and crashed, the Accidents and Incidents Investigations Division said in a statement to the George Herald. The helicopter itself was substantially damaged due to impact force.

People Magazine reported that the South African Police Service is investigating the incident.

The outlet said Steffens was best known for her role on the cooking show Speel met Vuur which she co-hosted with her high school friend, Aldi Van der Walt. She also wrote a cookbook by the same name.

VIA TV which carried the show posted about her death on Facebook.

Rest in peace, Mynie Steffens, the Networks post read. You were adventurous until the end. With #PlayWithFire, you showed us all how to approach life with curiosity and bravery. Sleep softly.

Van der Walt also spoke out about her death.

She was always full of ideas that had transformed into successful endeavors, and then executing that with success, winning over people as she went along, Van der Walt told IOL following her death. She could make time for people from every walk of life, and that was her priority.

She had patience and kindness coupled with humor, and that made her irresistible to people, Van der Walt added. I will miss my friend. Her absence will be felt by many.
Teddi Mellencamp shares with fans another health update after cancer diagnosis. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Alliance for Women in Media Foundation) Getty Images for Alliance for Wo

Teddi Mellencamp has good reason to hope for the best these days and its because of what her recent cancer scans have shown.

This comes after doctors diagnosed her with stage 4 melanoma following several tumors that were discovered in her brain and lungs.

However, Mellencamp, who is the daugher of rock legend John Mellencamp, has always been open and honest about the highs and lows of her battle with cancer.

Fortunately, her latest scans took her for a complete surprise and its allowing her to picture brighter days ahead.

On the October 3 episode of her podcast, Two Ts in a Pod, Mellencamp first shared an update sharing that her latest scans showed no detectable cancer.

Needless to say, the news seemed as if it was a huge weight lifted from her shoulders.

When they told me, I was in such shock. I was like numb, she said.

Mellencamp even spoke to Radar Online recently, and though she felt grateful, the battle to beat the disease is far from over.

Im still going to be having days when Im feeling sick and stuff because I still am in immunotherapy, she said.

She will also continue treatment for another year but shes not in remission yet.

The way the doctors said it works, its like one year, then two years, then at three years youre allowed to be considered in remission.

The reality star also took to her Instagram Story and opened up about her everyday struggle.

Some days are definitely better than others, she shared. And you dont see all the times Im laying in bed unable to do much.

She also detailed how shes learning to rest without guilt, while taking her well-known podcast week by week.

Mellencamp also took the time to recognize her famous father for his support throughout her recovery.

On Oct. 24, she posted a photo of him together with her daughters on Instagram.

Its been 10 months since my brain surgery and I am so grateful for @johnmellencamp for continuously being there for me and my family the entire time, she captioned.
A data security incident in August may have involved unauthorized access to personal information, the state attorney generals office announced Friday.

The cybersecurity incident was detected on Aug. 9, 2025, according to the attorney generals website. The office brought in cybersecurity experts and a review found some files containing personal data may have been accessed.

The office reported there has been no evidence of the misuse, or attempted misuse, of any potentially involved information.

A review found that some files contained personal information, including names, Social Security numbers and/or medical information.

Although we have no information that anyones data has been misused, we take the privacy and security of all information within our possession very seriously, the office said.

The Attorney Generals office said it took security measures after discovering the incident to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

It is also offering identity protection services to some affected individuals. Notices were emailed Nov. 14, and the office has reported the incident to the FBI, with whom it is cooperating.

The attorney generals office did not say how many people may be affected or what the compromised files were related to.

We take your trust in us and this matter very seriously and regret any concern this may cause, the attorney generals office said.

For further information about how to protect your personal information, or if you have questions or need assistance, call 1-833-353-8060 on Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

The Attorney Generals office provided the following advice to help protect your information:

Notify your financial institution immediately if you detect any suspicious activity on any of your accounts, including unauthorized transactions or new accounts opened in your name that you do not recognize. You can request a copy of your credit report, free of charge, directly from each of the three nationwide credit reporting agencies. To do so, free of charge once every 12 months, please visit the Annual Credit Reports website or call toll free at 1-877-322-8228. You can take steps recommended by the Federal Trade Commission to protect yourself from identity theft. For more information visit the FTCs website

How do I obtain a copy of my credit report?

You can obtain a copy of your credit report, at no cost, directly from each of the three nationwide credit reporting agencies, TransUnion, Experian and Equifax. To order your credit report, at no cost once every 12 months, visit www.annualcreditreport.com or call toll free at 1-877-322-8228.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP)  The forecasts are eye-popping: utilities saying theyll need two or three times more electricity within a few years to power massive new data centers that are feeding a fast-growing AI economy.

But the challenges  some say the impossibility  of building new power plants to meet that demand so quickly has set off alarm bells for lawmakers, policymakers and regulators who wonder if those utility forecasts can be trusted.

One burning question is whether the forecasts are based on data center projects that may never get built  eliciting concern that regular ratepayers could be stuck with the bill to build unnecessary power plants and grid infrastructure at a cost of billions of dollars.

The scrutiny comes as analysts warn of the risk of an artificial intelligence investment bubble thats ballooned tech stock prices and could burst.

Meanwhile, consumer advocates are finding that ratepayers in some areas  such as the mid-Atlantic electricity grid, which encompasses all or parts of 13 states stretching from New Jersey to Illinois, as well as Washington, D.C.  are already underwriting the cost to supply power to data centers, some of them built, some not.

Theres speculation in there, said Joe Bowring, who heads Monitoring Analytics, the independent market watchdog in the mid-Atlantic grid territory. Nobody really knows. Nobody has been looking carefully enough at the forecast to know whats speculative, whats double-counting, whats real, whats not.

Suspicions about skyrocketing demand

There is no standard practice across grids or for utilities to vet such massive projects, and figuring out a solution has become a hot topic, utilities and grid operators say.

Uncertainty around forecasts is typically traced to a couple of things.

One concerns developers seeking a grid connection, but whose plans arent set in stone or lack the heft  clients, financing or otherwise  to bring the project to completion, industry and regulatory officials say.

Another is data center developers submitting grid connection requests in various separate utility territories, PJM Interconnection, which operates the mid-Atlantic grid, and Texas lawmakers have found.

Often, developers, for competitive reasons, wont tell utilities if or where theyve submitted other requests for electricity, PJM said. That means a single project could inflate the energy forecasts of multiple utilities.

The effort to improve forecasts got a high-profile boost in September, when a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission member asked the nations grid operators for information on how they determine that a project is not only viable, but will use the electricity it says it needs.

Better data, better decision-making, better and faster decisions mean we can get all these projects, all this infrastructure built, the commissioner, David Rosner, said in an interview.

The Edison Electric Institute, a trade association of for-profit electric utilities, said it welcomed efforts to improve demand forecasting.

FILE- An entrance to the Stargate artificial intelligence data center complex in Abilene, Texas on Monday, Sept. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Matt O'Brien, File) AP

Real, speculative, or somewhere in between

The Data Center Coalition, which represents tech giants like Google and Meta and data center developers, has urged regulators to request more information from utilities on their forecasts and to develop a set of best practices to determine the commercial viability of a data center project.

The coalitions vice president of energy, Aaron Tinjum, said improving the accuracy and transparency of forecasts is a fundamental first step of really meeting this moment of energy growth.

Wherever we go, the question is, Is the (energy) growth real? How can we be so sure? Tinjum said. And we really view commercial readiness verification as one of those important kind of low-hanging opportunities for us to be adopting at this moment.

Igal Feibush, the CEO of Pennsylvania Data Center Partners, a data center developer, said utilities are in a fire drill as they try to vet a deluge of data center projects all seeking electricity.

The vast majority, he said, will fall off because many project backers are new to the concept and dont know what it takes to get a data center built.

States also are trying to do more to find out whats in utility forecasts and weed out speculative or duplicative projects.

In Texas, which is attracting large data center projects, lawmakers still haunted by a blackout during a deadly 2021 winter storm were shocked when told in 2024 by the grid operator, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, that its peak demand could nearly double by 2030.

They found that state utility regulators lacked the tools to determine whether that was realistic.

Texas state Sen. Phil King told a hearing earlier this year that the grid operator, utility regulators and utilities werent sure if the power requests are real or just speculative or somewhere in between.

Lawmakers passed legislation sponsored by King, now law, that requires data center developers to disclose whether they have requests for electricity elsewhere in Texas and to set standards for developers to show that they have a substantial financial commitment to a site.

Electricity bills are rising, too

PPL Electric Utilities, which delivers power to 1.5 million customers across central and eastern Pennsylvania, projects that data centers will more than triple its peak electricity demand by 2030.

Vincent Sorgi, president and CEO of PPL Corp., told analysts on an earnings call this month that the data center projects are real, they are coming fast and furious and that the near-term risk of overbuilding generation simply does not exist.

The data center projects counted in the forecast are backed by contracts with financial commitments often reaching tens of millions of dollars, PPL said.

Still, PPLs projections helped spur a state lawmaker, Rep. Danilo Burgos, to introduce a bill to bolster the authority of state utility regulators to inspect how utilities assemble their energy demand forecasts.

Ratepayers in Burgos Philadelphia district just absorbed an increase in their electricity bills  attributed by the utility, PECO, to the rising cost of wholesale electricity in the mid-Atlantic grid driven primarily by data center demand.

Thats why ratepayers need more protection to ensure they are benefiting from the higher cost, Burgos said.

Once they make their buck, whatever company, Burgos said, you dont see no empathy towards the ratepayers.
FILE - An Internal Revenue Service 2023 1040 tax form and instructions are shown on Jan. 26, 2024 in New York. It's tax season in the U.S., and for many people, filing tax returns can be a daunting task that's often left until the last minute. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan, File) AP

By Ron Klink

Over the last week, Pennsylvania media has been crying foul about how taxpayer costs are supposedly about to go up because the IRS just axed its Direct File program, a program started under the Biden administration that allowed Americans to have the nations tax collection agency prepare their taxes for free.

I disagree.

Ending Direct File was one of the smartest moves the IRS has made in years  and its exactly the kind of reform we should be encouraging if we want a simpler, fairer, and more efficient tax system.

When I served in Congress, much of my time was devoted to taxes. More specifically, who should pay how much  and how to simplify the process of figuring out what to pay. Those concerns havent gone away and probably never will.

With Pennsylvanias flat 3.07 percent income tax layered on top of federal levies, property taxes that are among the highest in the nation, and a sales tax that reaches 8 percent in some counties, residents often see their paychecks shrink faster than a glacier in July. Add in the maze of local wage taxes and the average family gives up more than a third of its earnings before buying groceries.

No wonder the Keystone States out-migration increased again last year; for too many, the cost-of-living numbers just dont add up.

But when Pennsylvanians talk about taxes, the agency that receives most of their blame is not state politicians but the IRS. Frustration with the agency cuts across the political spectrum, and those frustrations are likely to deepen as the agencys workforce has dropped about 25 percent this year alone, to just 76,000 employees.

I understand that frustration. But we should also recognize that the IRS has been asked to do too much with too little. Its technology is decades old, its staff is shrinking, and its responsibilities have only grown.

Against that backdrop, the agencys recent decision to shut down its short-lived Direct File program was actually a rare case of good judgment.

The idea for Direct File was to let taxpayers file directly through the IRS rather than using private software. But the program never caught ononly about 0.3 percent of eligible taxpayers used it. It was also expensive: preparing each return cost the IRS $225 during testing and $138 last year, not counting all the staff time to develop and manage it.

Worse, the program was flawed. Direct File failed to allow taxpayers to claim their Educational Tax Credit, causing some residents to pay more than they owed. And it didnt even cover many taxpayers who needed it mostsuch as the 1.1 million small business owners across the state or anyone who itemized deductions.

By ending Direct File, the IRS acknowledged an important truth: it doesnt need to reinvent tax preparation. It just needs to focus on what already workslike the Free File Alliance, a public-private partnership between the IRS and private tax preparation companies thats been helping Americans file online for free for more than two decades.

For over 20 years, Free File has assisted taxpayers in preparing and electronically filing their taxes online for free to any Pennsylvanian making less than $79,000. It has been used by 65 million people nationwide.

Free File offers the same basic service as Direct File, but with one critical difference: it makes use of the expertise of private-sector companies that specialize in tax software power the system. These firms already use their programs every day to serve millions of paying customers, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and that taxpayers receive every deduction and credit theyre entitled to. They act as advocates for taxpayershelping them navigate complex lawsrather than compliance enforcers (like the IRS) whose job is to collect as much revenue as possible.

The IRSs job is not to compete with the private sector but to make sure the tax system works for everyone. That means improving its core technology (some of which still dates to the 1960s), upgrading customer service, and supporting proven partnerships that expand access without adding bureaucracy.

The more the IRS begins to recognize this and rein in its focus  zeroing in on its strengths and empowering the private sector to do what it does best  the more the agency will boost its popularity while making the tax system fairer, simpler, and more efficient.

Thats something every Pennsylvania taxpayer looks forward to seeing.

Ron Klink is a former Democratic member of Congress from Pennsylvania. He served on the Financial Services Committee.
Nearly 46 years after a mob overran the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan, sisters Eileen Woods Schreiber of Newport and Lisa Woods Dougherty of the Philadelphia area remember the smell of smoke, the silence of missing voices and the way a routine Wednesday became a line that split their childhoods in two.

On Nov. 21, 1979, the sisters were teenagers living in Islamabad, where their father, U.S. Army Col. George Woods, served as the U.S. defense attache. Their mother taught at the American-run International School. What began like any school day quickly unraveled into hours of fear and confusion as thousands of demonstrators surged over the embassys walls, set vehicles ablaze and forced American personnel to retreat to a secure vault on the buildings top floors.

We were used to demonstrations, Lisa said. You lived around them. But when I stepped outside, I could see the sky  all this smoke  coming from the direction of the embassy, and I knew this was different.

The attack came amid cascading crises across the region. Two and a half weeks earlier, on Nov. 4, militants seized the U.S. Embassy in Tehran and took American hostages. A day before the Islamabad assault, armed extremists seized Meccas Grand Mosque in Saudi Arabia. Iranian leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini falsely blamed the United States for the Mecca attack, a message that, according to the sisters, helped fuel anti-American demonstrations that flared the same day in Pakistani cities with a U.S. presence. In Islamabad, they said, an an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 people flooded the embassy compound, a figure later confirmed in embassy records.

INSURRECTION  Protesters scale the wall of the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Nov. 21, 1979, as thousands stormed the compound following false reports that Americans were behind the attack on Meccas Grand Mosque. The assault left four people dead, including two U.S. citizens. Perry County Times

Lisa, then a senior in high school, stayed home that morning to care for her 4-year-old brother while her mother and Eileen rode to school. Col. Woods drove to the embassy in the familys Subaru because the official embassy car assigned to them was in the shop. He returned home for lunch and headed back in uniform  a new Wednesday requirement the family considered unwise because it highlighted rank.

Not long after, Lisa received a phone call from her fathers secretary: Trouble at the embassy, dont come in for scheduled immunizations. Outside, she could see a dark column of smoke. With communications limited to the Voice of America radio and neighbors, she took her brother to the nearby home of a U.S. Navy attaches family as reports crackled in. They said a serviceman had been killed, she said. Dad was in full uniform. It got very real.

Across town, Eileen was at the International School, an open-air campus ringed by a high brick wall. As unease spread, students were ushered into the auditorium. When a neighbor arrived to collect his children, Eileens mother told him to take Eileen, too. The driver used a German flagged diplomatic car and steered toward a side exit. As we came around the corner, there were three busloads of people running and going over the walls, Eileen said. He told us to cover our faces and drove through. People were pounding on the car.

Within the embassy, the situation deteriorated. Fires set to vehicles were pushed against buildings to ignite them, the sisters said, and security personnel fell back floor by floor until roughly 100 to 120 people crowded into a three-room secure area containing communications and shredders. Heat rose; after roughly six hours inside, glue in the carpeting began to bubble from the heat. With demonstrators on the roof firing down the escape hatch, the group soaked paper bags to breathe through and calculated they had about 30 minutes of air left.

At one point, according to the sisters, Ambassador Arthur Hummel Jr. authorized Marines to use their weapons if necessary after earlier guidance not to fire. Marine Cpl. Steven Crowley, 19, was shot on the rooftop and died in the vault hours later. Army Chief Warrant Officer Bryan Ellis died of smoke inhalation in his apartment after being beaten, they said, and two Pakistani embassy employees  a man and a woman  also died.

Cpl. Steven Crowley Perry County Times

As flames intensified, Marines and military staff began moving people out a roof hatch and across to an adjoining structure. A gunnery sergeant carried Crowleys body. To get down, they shoved bicycle racks against a wall to form a makeshift ladder, then led evacuees to the nearby British Embassy.

The Pakistani army didnt protect us; we saved ourselves, Lisa said of that day, while noting that private citizens and diplomats from other countries stepped in to help. In the days after, a retired Pakistani general who owned a moving firm came to the Woods home and promised to personally safeguard the familys belongings for shipment. The American ambassador opened his residence so remaining staff had a place to gather.

Thanksgiving fell the next day. The family said grace through tears, and then orders arrived to evacuate most Americans. In the predawn hours of Friday, buses collected families. With bus lights off and tanks escorting, they drove past the still smoldering compound to the airport. A 747 flew in from Germany to carry evacuees from Islamabad and Karachi.

Roughly 320 Americans left, the sisters said, while about 40 stayed to keep the mission running, including their father. Many families never returned. It took weeks for the International School to reopen in temporary quarters. The Woods children were split among relatives in the United States so they could finish the school year. One day youre at school; a week later youre in another country, Eileen said. We werent offered counseling. We were told not to talk about it.

At Dulles Airport, a State Department official boarded the plane and, the sisters recall, urged evacuees not to discuss what had happened publicly so as not to complicate the hostage crisis in Iran. Coverage did appear  the sisters point to a small reference on the Dec. 3, 1979, cover of Time magazine and an inside account  but they said the episode was largely muted for years. Even some military professionals, they said, later told them they had never heard of the Islamabad attack until an academic paper or reunion conversation filled in the gaps.

With time, the alumni network slowly re-knit. The sisters credit lingering State Department connections and then Facebook with helping locate classmates scattered across governments and continents. Reunions, often anchored in Washington, D.C., now include visits to Marine Cpl. Crowleys grave and contact with Crowleys family. Pakistani and other international classmates also attend. It was only two years of our lives, Eileen said, but the friendships are cemented. When you go through something like that, you dont just move on.

For those unfamiliar with the episode, the sisters frame it as part of a volatile global moment  the Tehran hostage crisis; the seizure of Mecca and a wave of misinformation; Cold War rivalries and local politics; and embassy perimeters that, they argue, mirrored vulnerabilities seen again decades later. Did we learn anything? Lisa asked. They just went over the wall.

Col. Woods died in 2022. His daughters say they still look to him as their personal hero, a steady figure in their memories of Islamabad.

Details in this story are drawn from interviews with the Woods Schreiber sisters and their recollections as teenage witnesses in Islamabad. Names of the deceased are as remembered by the interviewees: Marine Cpl. Steven Crowley and Brian Ellis. The Pakistani employees who died were not named in the interview. The Pakistan Armys response and crowd estimates are described as the family recalls them. The State Department later declassified some records related to the attack.
Of course, it's also important to note that a U.S. appeals court has ruled that most of Trump's tariffs were illegal. The administration has asked the Supreme Court to overturn the decision, but if it doesn't, the revenues will have to be refunded.

Ultimately, someone has to pick up the tab. That could end up being the American consumer.

While these numbers look promising on the surface, theres more at play. The CBO says the changes in the tariffs will shrink the size of the U.S. economy due to reduced investment and productivity while making goods more expensive.

When combined with the reduced need for federal borrowing, this tariff revenue will reduce federal interest costs by an additional $0.7 trillion. Ultimately, the report projected a combined total of $4 trillion in reduced deficits due to the tariff changes between now and 2035.

We project that increases in tariffs implemented during the period from January 6, 2025, to August 19 will decrease primary deficits (which exclude net outlays for interest) by $3.3 trillion if the higher tariffs persist for the 20252035 period.

Meanwhile, the CBO says this means there will be a greater budgetary effect as well.

"Historically, tariff revenue has never accounted for more than about 2% of total federal government revenues in the modern era. Shai Akabas, the vice president of economic policy at the Bipartisan Policy Center, told NPR (1). And with the tariffs that are in place today, that could go up to 5% or perhaps even higher."

Now, the U.S. Department of the Treasury reports that Trumps customs duties have pulled in $195 billion. Almost $30 billion was collected in July alone, per Treasury reports.

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In January, before President Donald Trumps tariffs were announced, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) had projected that customs revenues would total $80 billion in fiscal year 2025, which is close to the average of the previous five years.

Although they have roiled markets, theres no question that President Donald Trumps trade policy actions have boosted the federal governments customs revenue. The good news is that this additional money coming in should help reduce the national deficit.

Moneywise and Yahoo Finance LLC may earn commission or revenue through links in the content below.

Story Continues

Where will tariff revenue go?

Of course, extra income is a good thing. But it's unclear where exactly it will go.

Trump has stated his goal of using the revenue to pay off federal debt. But hes also mentioned that Americans could benefit in the form of a rebate check (2).

If the money is used to pay off debt, it could help make a small dent in the current total of $38.121 trillion in federal debt.

But its worth noting that the One Big Beautiful Bill Act came with a hefty price tag. It will cost an estimated $3.4 trillion over the next decade, says the CBO, which could offset much of the potential tariff revenue projections.

As tariff revenue pours in, its also important to consider who is actually footing the bill. On paper, the importer pays tariffs when importing goods.

But, in reality, businesses often try to pass these costs along to the end consumer, which in this case is American households.

You may have already found that tariff costs are impacting your wallet. In fact, the Yale Budget Lab (3) estimates that American households could lose $2,400 in buying power in 2025 alone. With inflation also taking its toll on budgets, its critical that you find ways to rein in your spending and ensure your money can go farther.

Enter Rocket Money, an app that makes budgeting and tracking your spending simple.

Rocket Money tracks and categorizes your expenses, providing a clear view of your cash, credit and investments in one place. It can even uncover forgotten subscriptions, helping you cut unnecessary costs and save potentially hundreds annually.

For a small fee, the app can also negotiate lower rates on your monthly bills, making it a valuable tool for keeping your finances on track in the face of higher costs due to tariffs.

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How to protect your wallet from tariff impacts

Even Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has admitted that Trumps tariffs are being paid by American importers who can pass them off to consumers (4).

Some businesses have already announced their intentions to raise prices as a result of tariffs. A few notable examples include Walmart, Adidas, Home Depot and Best Buy. These price hikes suggest that American households will face higher costs for goods, putting pressure on already tight budgets.

Trump administration policies are driving up consumers cost of living in four specific areas: new cars, health insurance, products for children, and cookout staples and other foods, according to the Center for American Progress (5).

If youve noticed the climb in prices in these areas, youll want to find ways to bring your monthly bills down. One way to trim your budget is to re-evaluate your insurance expenses, especially your car insurance.

OfficialCarInsurance.com helps you instantly sort through the policies from providers in your area, including trusted names like Progressive, GEICO and Allstate. To get started, simply fill in some basic information, like the make and model of your car, and OfficialCarInsurance.com will provide a list of the top insurers in your area.

With rates as low as $29 per month, you can find coverage that suits your needs and potentially saves you hundreds of dollars per year. This could be a key step to easing the strain on your budget.

As the effects of tariffs unfold, its helpful not to panic buy. Although it might be tempting to stockpile your favorite imported goods, that can wreak havoc on your budget. Instead, stick to your regular cadence of purchases.

When you do make a purchase, consider looking for coupons or waiting for a sale. If you want to avoid a tariff-induced price hike, purchasing a domestic alternative could be an option in some cases.

For example, if you need a new piece of furniture, consider looking at domestically made options or even scouting out a second-hand steal to avoid tariff price spikes. Alternatively, seek out discounts and sales to potentially save on the exact item you have in mind.

If youve been holding off on a major purchase thats coming down the pipeline, moving forward with it sooner rather than later could make sense. If your fridge is on the fritz, replacing it now could help you avoid potentially higher prices later.

But since no one can predict the future, its best to avoid going on a major shopping spree with the express intention of avoiding future tariff costs.

Finally, for those in or near retirement, cutting costs is even more critical. When youre on a fixed income, big-ticket purchases need more consideration. Coupled with rising health care costs, uncertain markets and inflation, the new tariff prices can make it harder to stretch your savings  especially if youre trying to plan for the decades ahead.

You might want to consider joining senior-focused organizations like AARP for discounts on almost everything  from prescriptions and dental plans to travel, entertainment and insurance.

AARP not only offers money-saving perks, but they can also help you make informed financial and health decisions.

AARP members get access to guides that can help you make the most of Social Security, choose the right Medicare plan and uncover other government benefits  potentially saving you thousands. For example, over a decade, AARP has saved $100 billion for members on Medicare prescription drug costs.

Sign up with AARP today, and you can get 25% off your first year.

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Senior Reporter

Tiffany Tan is a senior reporter at The Post and Courier's Columbia newsroom. She covers statewide issues, particularly in the criminal justice system. She previously reported on the courts, the opioid epidemic and regional news in Vermont for VTDigger. She has also worked for newspapers and television outlets in South Dakota, Beijing, Singapore and Manila.
Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE:BSX) ranks among the best long-term stocks to buy according to D. E. Shaw. On October 23, UBS maintained its Buy rating on Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE:BSX) shares, and increased its price target to $140 from $135. The price target raise comes after Boston Scientifics quarterly results, which showed organic sales and earnings per share growth that surpassed both UBS and consensus expectations, with solid revenue growth of 21.4% year-over-year.

The company generated $5,065 million in net revenue for the third quarter, representing 15.3% year-over-year organic growth. Meanwhile, it produced adjusted earnings per share of $0.75 for the quarter, substantially higher than the $0.71 consensus estimate. Following the results, Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE:BSX) increased its full-year 2025 outlook, now anticipating roughly 20% growth and adjusted EPS of $3.02-$3.04, up from earlier estimates.

Moreover, the companys FARAPULSE product line saw roughly 63% organic worldwide expansion, with US growth improving by 40 percentage points on a comp-adjusted basis. The product also experienced faster growth abroad, although at a slower mid-single-digit pace.

According to UBS, Boston Scientifics WATCHMAN device experienced 35% organic sales growth for the fifth consecutive quarter, as product acceptance continues to climb.

Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE:BSX) is a global leader in the manufacture of medical devices, including stents, brain stimulation systems, heart monitors, and catheters.

While we acknowledge the potential of BSX 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 Magic Formula Stocks for 2025 and 10 Best Retirement Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
Boltons newcomer status is part of her appeal. She arrived from the Georgia Institute of Technology, where she served as chief business officer. With a background in human resources, she has held senior roles at Washington University in St. Louis and Tulane University.

For the first time in a long time, theres a possibility of a future that we can look forward to, said Diana Vallera, president of the Columbia Faculty Union.

Further cuts to academics or staffing are possible, if not likely  though what that looks like is still unclear. But after a decade of financial woes, many are eager to buy into Boltons vision as a means to rescue their beleaguered institution.

At the very least, her strategy is a morale boost. Once-disgruntled faculty members say theres a renewed sense of hope on campus. Students, acutely aware of the stressors facing their institution, note that Bolton seems more present on campus.

I think weve been in crisis management mode too long, Bolton said. I believe were going to emerge on the other side of this.

The president has cast herself as a student-centered leader, a champion of the arts. She has professed a commitment to financial stability with equal parts pragmatism and optimism.

The schools revenue streams have been hollowed out by shrinking enrollment, now hovering at 4,400 students. Administrators clawed their way back from a bitter, 49-day adjunct strike in late 2023. Still, even after program cuts and layoffs, they face a $40 million structural deficit.

But Columbia is teetering on a financial precipice, a crisis the past president warned could pose an existential threat.

We are never losing sight of that mission, Bolton told the Tribune in a recent interview. We know that we are a part of the tapestry of this beautiful city.

That rich legacy of creatives was the main draw for Shantay Bolton, Columbias first new president in more than a decade. After the schools nationwide, yearlong search, she officially stepped into the role on July 1.

Over its 135-year history, the South Loop school has educated hundreds of thousands of alumni and artists  winners of Academy Awards, Grammys, Pulitzer Prizes. Elsewhere on campus, theres a fashion lab, a bookbinding studio and a 260-seat movie theater.

Inside Columbia College Chicagos glitzy glass student center, the walls are a canvas for campus life. Call For Art, lists a taped flyer. Do you craft? reads another. Beside them, hand-drawn stickers advertise a student podcast.

Story Continues

The St. Louis native is also the first woman of color to lead the school, and its first female president in nearly 90 years. (Columbia was founded by two women in 1890 as an oratory institute.)

The schools diverse academic majors, from comedy writing to fashion design, helped it shed its commuter school reputation in the 1990s. Ask longtime faculty members, though, and theyll note the urban campus is quieter than it used to be.

(My floor) is like a ghost town, said Deb Doetzer, an adjunct voice-over instructor. Even when I go on other floors, I dont see a lot of students hanging out.

Two decades ago, Columbia enrolled roughly 12,000 students. This fall, only 4,461 undergraduates and graduates attended  a 62% drop from 2011.

Some of that is due to pressures outside of Columbias control: College enrollment nationwide has steadily fallen since 2010 amid plummeting birth rates. As prospective applicants reevaluate their return on investment, arts-focused institutions like Columbia are often left in the lurch.

Midsize and small colleges, heavily dependent on tuition dollars, are also more likely to feel the pinch of demographic shifts. In 2015, Columbia drew in $171 million from tuition. By last year, that total fell to $103 million.

We were waiting for the demographic cliff to come, and all of the sudden, there we were, and it appeared that (administrators) werent making plans for it, said Timothy McCain, an adjunct instructor in theater arts.

Spending soon outpaced revenue. While Columbia cashed out on three South Loop properties in 2017 and 2018, it unveiled a new $50 million student center just a year later. Administrators said it was financed through earlier real estate sales and private donations, but the college also issued $18 million in bonds to help cover construction costs.

Meanwhile, cuts crept into the classroom. Just weeks before the fall 2023 semester, department chairs were instructed to eliminate five to six courses from each academic program. That prompted the nearly 600 members of the faculty union to strike  which, after 49 days, became the longest work stoppage in higher education history.

The old way of doing things was bullying and holding power over people, said Vallera, the union president, who is also an adjunct instructor in photography.

A new contract was ratified after extensive negotiations in December that year. But the strike ultimately cost the college $13 million, sowing deep division between adjuncts, full-time faculty members and administrators. College President Kwang-Wu Kim resigned soon after, concluding a rocky 11-year tenure. The Tribune could not reach Kim for comment.

It felt like there was always this ominous cloud of where you dont know whats going to get cut next, said Brian Plocharczyk, an adjunct voice-over instructor.

Later that year, the college announced plans to discontinue 11 graduate and undergraduate programs, including the states only bachelors degree in American Sign Language interpretation. It has since laid off scores of faculty members. Tuition, currently at $34,088, has been raised the past three years, the Columbia Chronicle first reported.

I feel like I didnt get the education that I paid a lot of money for, and moved my whole life over here for, said Gabby Aquino, 24, who graduated in late 2023 after studying ASL. Many of her professors were on strike and unable to attend class.

This summer, S&P downgraded Columbias debt rating to noninvestment grade, or junk, which makes future borrowing more expensive. The rating agency cited its slumping enrollment and depleted endowment. The college is still roughly $130 million in debt.

And with that, enter Bolton.

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Despite the hurdles ahead of her, the president has championed a Columbia renaissance. She has launched a strategic planning process to outline the next three years, with four pillars: stabilizing enrollment, elevating the brand, strengthening philanthropy and improving operational efficiency.

Her predecessor once claimed he would recruit thousands of new students. Now, Bolton said, the goal is just to keep the enrollment steady. That includes building connections with Chicago Public Schools and other area school districts  roughly a quarter of the student body is from the city.

I do not relitigate decisions of the past, Bolton said. (These goals) need to be realistic as we look at the landscape and the changing demographics of higher education.

Reversing a long-standing enrollment decline will be difficult, according to David Attis, research director with education consultant firm EAB. He pointed to the negative feedback loop that comes with high student attrition. Plus, retention is as important as freshman recruitment  and Columbias four-year graduation rate is only 40%.

Thats the best strategy, and everyone knows that, but not everyone has made progress on it, Attis said. Its less expensive to retain a student than to bring in a new student.

Still, Bolton is charging ahead. Were not just rebuilding Columbia. We are literally reimagining the possibilities, she said.

She has other plans, too, including a new student scholarship fund, partnerships with civic and cultural organizations, revamped fundraising events and streamlined course offerings.

Among students and faculty, theres a feeling of cautious optimism. For now, theyre just hoping it lasts.

(Bolton) inherited a lot of missteps from the past that were having to come back from, said Karla Fuller, a film professor and president of the Faculty Senate. But I have no doubt that we can come back.

The union president, Vallera, pointed to a recent breakthrough: After nearly two years, the union and administration settled outstanding contract issues in August. The agreement secured protections for senior adjuncts against enrollment changes.

The deal, overseen by Bolton, was outlined in an email co-signed by Vallera and interim Provost Suzanne McBride  a remarkable show of unity after years of deep-seated division.

I know that for the first time in a long time, we feel that we not only have a seat at the table, but all the constituency groups are coming together, Vallera said.

To be sure, Bolton said nothing is off the table to offset costs. At a student Q&A event in October, she conceded that it may be necessary to again increase tuition. But she stressed a commitment to affordability, particularly as a first-generation college graduate herself.

She told the Tribune that layoffs and academic programming cuts are a last resort. While I cannot guarantee anything right at this moment  it is top of mind for me to try to reduce the impact to the greatest degree that I can, Bolton said.

Fashion studies student Antonio Arce voiced concerns about tuition hikes at the event. Because his family offers no financial support, hes worried about how hell afford day-to-day living expenses.

Thats like a big stress on my everyday life, Arce, 22, said. Like, will I be able to go to school next semester? Will I be able to pay for this and graduate?

But when he met Bolton after the event, he was struck by her affability. She was receptive to his questions. She shook his hand. Theyre saying its a big change to how it was a few years prior, Arce said.

Student body President Jenna Davis, a senior fine arts major, meets with Bolton monthly as part of her leadership role. The 22-year-old is also worried about tuition, retention and enrollment, but said she feels a shift on campus.

Being through all the previous presidents and the interim presidents, I would say that the energy on campus has been the most positive its ever been, Davis said.
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In a rapidly evolving financial landscape, the ability of institutions to attract, retain, and empower top technological talent has become as critical to success as balance sheets and compliance regimes.NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 15, 2025 /Matt Egyhazy, Chief Information Officer for the Commercial Bank and Wilmington Trust divisions of M&T Bank, discusses how fostering a modern "tech-first" culture can help financial institutions attract skilled technologists and build long-term resilience.A Career Bridging Technology and BusinessIn his current role, Egyhazy oversees technology strategy and execution across several divisions within M&T Bank, including Commercial Banking, Credit Administration, Corporate Treasury, Enterprise Payments, and the technology infrastructure supporting Wilmington Trust. This scope underscores not only his technical expertise but also his leadership experience across banking, wealth management, and institutional services.Before joining M&T Bank, Egyhazy held senior roles at Genworth Financial-serving as Chief Data Officer, Head of IT Strategy, and Chief Architect-and earlier in his career led technology initiatives at Capital One, JPMorgan Chase, and SWIFT. His background spans retail banking, card services, investment banking, trade finance, FX, derivatives, and wealth management, giving him a rare cross-sector perspective.The Talent Imperative: Building a Modern Engineering CultureEgyhazy highlights three dimensions he sees as central to transforming how financial institutions attract and retain technical talent:1. Modern engineering practice - Financial organizations benefit when they adopt the velocity, tools, and autonomy common to tech-native firms-such as cloud services, containerization, APIs, DevOps, and continuous delivery. Without these foundations, he observes, many talented technologists gravitate toward sectors where such methods are standard.2. Talent experience and culture - Today's technology professionals often choose employers that provide meaningful problem-solving opportunities, creative freedom, and visible impact. Institutions historically focused on infrastructure stability can strengthen their appeal by fostering agile teams, digital product ownership, and continuous learning pathways.3. Business and technology partnership - In a tech-first environment, engineers work side by side with business leaders to define product roadmaps, shape customer experience, and explore new revenue streams. Reflecting on his experience, Egyhazy notes that when technology is treated merely as a cost center, organizations can struggle to maintain innovation and culture.Academic and Professional FoundationsEgyhazy's academic background reflects his dual fluency in technical craft and business strategy. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Virginia, a Master of Science in Computer Science from Virginia Tech, and an MBA from Georgetown University-credentials that mirror his career trajectory of bridging engineering with executive leadership.Beyond corporate leadership, Egyhazy contributes to the broader technology community through IEEE publications, academic collaborations, and open-source projects such as the Boost C++ library. He also speaks at universities, including the University of Rochester, sharing insights with emerging professionals in data science and engineering.The Urgency of Cultural ChangeEgyhazy observes that many banks have a limited window to redefine their technology talent proposition. The ongoing skills shortage and heightened competition from fintech and Big Tech firms mean technologists have more options than ever. Unless traditional institutions evolve their engineering cultures, he suggests, they risk being perceived primarily as legacy maintenance environments rather than innovation centers.The next decade of banking, in his view, will be shaped less by compliance and infrastructure alone and more by platform development, data-driven services, and embedded finance. Only organizations equipped with modern engineering talent will be positioned to lead in those areas.As he puts it, success depends on having people who can build and operate contemporary technology stacks-not just manage vendor tools.Practical Steps Toward a Tech-First CultureDrawing from his experience at M&T Bank, Egyhazy highlights several practices that can help organizations cultivate an innovative technology environment:Recruit for curiosity as well as credentials. Prioritize technologists who ask strategic questions and seek to solve business problems, not just maintain systems.Invest in learning and upskilling. Internal academies, data science programs, and engineering bootcamps can help existing employees transition into modern roles.Design collaborative workspaces. Flexible hybrid models and creative engineering hubs encourage collaboration while preserving governance and structure. Large multi-floor technology centers-such as the 13-story innovation hub in Buffalo-illustrate how physical spaces can foster connection and creativity.Embed technologists in product teams. Engineers who work alongside business stakeholders from the start develop deeper ownership and alignment with outcomes.Recognize engineering achievements. Celebrating technical accomplishments reinforces the idea that engineers are makers and value creators, not simply support resources.The Broader ImpactMatt Egyhazy suggests that building a tech-first culture yields several strategic benefits:Speed to market. Agile engineering accelerates product delivery, allowing financial institutions to compete more effectively with fintechs and meet evolving customer expectations.Improved customer experience. Cross-functional teams can leverage data insights and predictive modeling to create seamless, personalized interactions.Talent attraction and retention. A modern engineering environment positions an organization as an employer of choice and helps secure the next generation of digital talent.ConclusionAs the competition for skilled technologists intensifies, Egyhazy believes that successful financial institutions increasingly view technology as a foundation for growth rather than a supporting function. For those that embrace this cultural shift-from infrastructure to innovation, and from code to collaboration-the rewards include stronger teams, better products, and more resilient organizations.Contact:Matt Egyhazy Orchard Park, New York, USA megyhazy@ mtb.com mattegyhazy@ gmail.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matyasegyhazy/ SOURCE: Matt Egyhazy Financial Consultant
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Suha Atiyeh, an accomplished marketing executive based in Birmingham, Alabama, stands out as a voice of reason and innovationBIRMINGHAM, AL / ACCESS Newswire / November 15, 2025 / In an era when marketing is often reduced to vanity metrics and short-term campaigns, Suha Atiyeh, an accomplished marketing executive based in Birmingham, Alabama, stands out as a voice of reason and innovation. With over a decade of experience building and scaling high-impact, full-funnel marketing strategies across fintech, healthcare, and retail, Atiyeh believes marketing has a far greater purpose than generating clicks or leads; it's about building ecosystems of trust, loyalty, and long-term growth.Atiyeh's career is marked by a rare fusion of analytical discipline and creative instinct, a blend she calls "the art and science of marketing." She argues that true marketing leadership requires not just creativity, but the courage to translate ideas into measurable impact, transforming marketing departments from cost centers into powerful engines of revenue and influence."Marketing isn't just about storytelling anymore; it's about story proving," says Atiyeh. "It's about linking creativity with accountability, showing that every message, every campaign, and every engagement has a direct and measurable impact on the customer and the company." The Full-Funnel Mindset: Beyond AwarenessAtiyeh's approach is grounded in her deep understanding of the entire customer lifecycle, from acquisition and conversion to retention and advocacy. Rather than chasing trends, she focuses on constructing marketing systems that sustain growth and strengthen customer relationships."The funnel doesn't end at the sale," she emphasizes. "That's where the real work begins, cultivating loyalty, inspiring advocacy, and turning customers into brand ambassadors." Her data-driven framework combines market research, competitive analysis, and performance insights to build narratives that not only reach audiences but resonate with them. It's this holistic philosophy that has helped Atiyeh repeatedly transform underperforming marketing teams into revenue-producing powerhouses.Building Marketing as a Strategic FunctionFor Atiyeh, the biggest misconception in business is the idea that marketing is an expense. "Marketing isn't a cost; it's an investment," she asserts. "When executed strategically, marketing drives sustainable revenue growth, not just short-term spikes." Across her career, she's been instrumental in reengineering marketing operations from the ground up, helping organizations rethink how they allocate resources, measure success, and integrate customer intelligence. Her leadership has consistently turned stagnant brands into agile, customer-focused market leaders.She believes the key lies in unifying creativity and accountability, creating a marketing culture that celebrates both bold ideas and measurable results."Many marketing teams are great at creativity but lack precision," Atiyeh explains. "Others are strong on data but lose their humanity in the process. The future belongs to those who can do both, speak the language of emotion and the language of numbers with equal fluency." A Voice for Women in BusinessOutside the boardroom, Atiyeh channels her passion for empowerment into her community. A graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham's Collat School of Business, she remains deeply connected to the city that shaped her values and ambitions.She actively mentors women through local entrepreneurial programs that help aspiring business owners gain the confidence and tools to launch and scale their ventures. "When women succeed, communities flourish," says Atiyeh. "Birmingham has so much untapped talent, and mentorship can be the bridge that turns potential into purpose." Her advocacy for female entrepreneurship extends beyond mentorship. She frequently speaks at local business events and marketing summits, where she shares insights on market positioning, leadership, and how to build authentic brands in a noisy world.The Art and Science of Marketing: A Balancing ActAtiyeh's mantra, "marketing is both an art and a science," reflects her broader philosophy about balance. She insists that data without creativity becomes sterile, while creativity without discipline leads to chaos."The science of marketing gives you the roadmap, but the art gives you the vision," she says. "It's the intersection of these two where the magic happens, where data informs emotion, and emotion drives results." This philosophy has guided her success across sectors as diverse as fintech and healthcare, where regulatory constraints and consumer skepticism often make storytelling difficult. Atiyeh thrives in such environments, finding ways to craft human-centered narratives backed by quantifiable results.Her work has helped reposition brands struggling with outdated perceptions, rebuild customer trust, and unlock new channels for growth, all while maintaining a relentless focus on metrics and accountability.Championing Ethical and Sustainable GrowthIn today's world of hyper-personalized ads and endless digital noise, Atiyeh also emphasizes ethical marketing as a key pillar of sustainable success. She warns against the industry's obsession with algorithms and automation at the expense of authenticity."Technology should amplify truth, not manipulate it," she cautions. "Brands that focus only on short-term gains eventually lose credibility. Sustainable growth is about honesty, being transparent, consistent, and human." Her leadership model encourages teams to question not just how they market, but why. That sense of purpose, she believes, is what keeps marketing relevant and powerful in a rapidly changing landscape.Insights on Modern Brand BuildingWhen asked what separates enduring brands from forgettable ones, Atiyeh doesn't hesitate: empathy."Consumers today are more informed, skeptical, and emotionally intelligent than ever before," she says. "They don't just buy products; they buy alignment with their values. Brands that listen, that act with empathy, that respect their audience's intelligence, those are the ones that last." She urges companies to invest in customer insight not merely as a form of data collection, but as a way of cultivating understanding. "Data is only as valuable as the empathy behind it," Atiyeh explains. "Numbers tell you what people do, but empathy tells you why. Successful marketing connects both." Leading the Next Generation of MarketersAtiyeh's leadership style has earned her a reputation as a mentor who develops not just campaign
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 14, 2025 / Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Live Oak Bancshares, Inc. ("Live Oak" or the "Company") (NYSE:LOB). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980.The investigation concerns whether Live Oak and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.[Click here for information about joining the class action]On November 12, 2025, Live Oak disclosed in a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission that "the Company will amend its 2024 Annual Report on Form 10-K . . . and the Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarterly periods ended March 31, 2025 and June 30, 2025, respectively . . . to restate the Consolidated Financial Statements for each of the periods included in those filings in order to restate the Statements of Cash Flows and related notes[.]" Live Oak said that "an error was identified in the classification of cash flows between operating and investing activities associated with the proceeds received from the sale of loan participations and the related supplemental disclosures of non-cash operating, investing and financing activities related to these loans" and that "given the relative size of the misclassification . . . management concluded the misclassifications are material." Live Oak further stated "that a material weakness exists in the Company's internal control over financial reporting" and that the Company's previous statements for the periods at issue "should no longer be relied upon." On this news, Live Oak's stock price fell $0.80 per share, or 2.49%, to close at $31.29 per share on November 13, 2025.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP
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KUALA LUMPUR, MY / ACCESS Newswire / November 14, 2025 / In a defining moment for Malaysia's creative and cultural landscape, His Excellency the Governor of Penang, Tun Dato' Seri DiRaja Ramli Ngah Talib, and The Right Honourable Chief Minister of Penang, Chow Kon Yeow, officiated the opening ceremony of the Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery this morning at The Light Waterfront, Gelugor.From L-R: Yang Amat Berhormat Tuan Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang; His Excellency Tun Dato' Seri Utama Haji Ramli bin Ngah Talib, Yang di-Pertua of the State of Penang; Professor Lin Xiang Xiong, Founder of Lin Xiang Xiong Art GalleryThe event signified Malaysia's growing presence on the global cultural map. Set against Penang's coastline, the gallery represents a convergence of diplomacy, heritage, and the transformative power of creativity, reflecting a broader national aspiration to project peace and cultural confidence through the arts.Attended by business and government leaders, artists as well as representatives from the arts and academic sectors, the opening ceremony highlighted Penang's emergence as an international cultural destination. The Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery, is envisioned as a permanent platform for cultural exchange and global dialogue, bridging East and West through artistic collaboration.In his remarks, Professor Lin Xiang Xiong, founder of the gallery, expressed that the project was not only an artistic pursuit, but also a reflection of Malaysia's values in an increasingly divided world. "At a time when differences dominate global narratives, Malaysia has chosen to respond with creativity and compassion. This gallery is not only a tribute to art but a commitment to dialogue; a reminder that peace is built through understanding." he said.The attendance of His Excellency the Governor of Penang and The Right Honourable Chief Minister of Penang underscored the State's recognition of the arts as a vital pillar of cultural and social progress. Their presence lent significance to the occasion, reflecting Penang's continued commitment to nurturing creative development and international cultural exchange.Guests were invited to a private preview of the fifth floor "The Vicissitudes of Life", featuring 99 artworks by Professor Lin Xiang Xiong that confront pressing global isses such as war, pollution and poverty. The collection invites reflection on humanity's shared struggles and hopes, underscoring Prof Lin's lifelong dedication to promoting peace through art.As one of the region's most ambitious privately founded cultural projects, the Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery is set to host international symposiums, artist residencies, and educational programmes. Beyond serving as an exhibition space, it will act as a cultural think tank, nurturing partnerships with art institutions, universities, and peace organizations around the world.The opening ceremony signifies the beginning of this broader mission. Following the event, the gallery will not be open to the public as final curatorial preparations and international coordination are still underway. The actual public opening date will be announced at a later date, once all arrangements are finalized to ensure a meaningful and well-prepared visitor experience. We thank you for your understanding and look forward to meeting you at Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery.###About Lin Xiang XiongProfessor Lin Xiang Xiong is a renowned artist, entrepreneur, and advocate for global security through art. As President of the Global Chinese Arts & Culture Association, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Art, and a visiting Professor at Peking University, Lin's work crosses disciplines and borders, connecting Eastern and Western cultures.After leaving China for Singapore in 1956, Lin pursued art studies at the Academy of Arts (1965-1968). Success in business, particularly in the mining industry in Malaysia, funded his travels, art remained his personal refuge and lifelong passion.His painting style is a dynamic combination of abstraction, traditional techniques, and contemporary social commentary, touching on themes such as climate change, war, forced migration, and the human condition. Despite being involved in the commercial field, Lin has never neglected his commitment to art as a force for good.In 2025, he was awarded the Gold Medal of Honor in Paris and delivered a keynote on "Art for Peace." He presented The Vicissitudes of Life exhibition and launched the Art for Peace Prize, attracting 1,883 submissions from 100 countries. Later, he joined the Board of Leaders for Peace and helped initiate "Presenting Peace Through Art," advancing art as a tool for dialogue, reconciliation, and global understanding.Professor Lin has published numerous works, including 8 collections of paintings and 27 volumes of essay and art criticism.For media information, kindly contact:Triven Marketing Group, for Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery Jazzmin WanEmail: j.wan@ swanconsultancy.biz SOURCE: Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 15, 2025 / Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Primo Brands Corporation ("Primo Brands" or the "Company") (NYSE:PRMB). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.The class action concerns whether Primo Brands and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.You have until January 12, 2026 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired Primo Brands securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained atwww.pomerantzlaw.com [Click here for information about joining the class action]On June 17, 2024, Primo Water Corporation ("Primo Water") announced entry into a merger agreement (the "Merger") with an affiliate of BlueTriton Brands, Inc. ("BlueTriton"). The two companies touted the synergies of the Merger, stating that the combined company was expected to have "significant financial and operating leverage" and "enhanced distribution capabilities" which would position it "for sustained long-term growth." On November 8, 2024, the companies announced the completion of the Merger and the formation of the combined entity, Primo Brands.On August 7, 2025, Primo Brands announced its financial results for the second quarter of 2025. On an accompanying earnings call, Chief Executive Officer Robbert Rietbroek acknowledged that "[t]he speed by which we closed facilities and reduced headcount led to disruptions in product supply, delivery, and service." Following these disclosures, Primo Brands' stock price fell $2.41 per share, or 9.13%, to close at $24.00 per share on August 7, 2025.Then, on November 6, 2025, Primo Brands announced Rietbroek's departure as CEO and disclosed that the Company was drastically reducing its full year 2025 net sales and adjusted EBITDA guidance. During a corresponding earnings call, Primo Brands' new CEO Eric Foss admitted that the Company "probably moved too far too fast on some of the various integration work streams" and that "[t]here's no doubt that speed impacted our ability to get through a lot of the warehouse closures and route realignment without disruption." Foss further revealed that Primo Brands had experienced "customer service issues" as well as "integration issues related to the technology move over." On this news, Primo Brands' stock price fell $8.20 per share, or 36.19%, over the following two trading sessions, closing at $14.46 per share on November 7, 2025.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 14, 2025 / Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Avantor, Inc. ("Avantor" or the "Company") (NYSE:AVTR). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.The class action concerns whether Avantor and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.You have until December 29, 2025 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired Avantor securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com [Click here for information about joining the class action]On April 25, 2025, Avantor reported disappointing first quarter 2025 financial results, cut its guidance for 2025, and announced that Michael Stubblefield would be stepping down from his roles as President and Chief Executive Officer. Avantor's management attributed its weak performance and outlook to "the impact of increased competitive intensity." On this news, Avantor's stock price fell $2.57 per share, or 16.5%, to close at $12.93 per share on April 25, 2025.Then, on August 1, 2025, Avantor reported disappointing second quarter 2025 financial results, including a year-over-year decrease in net sales, and further reduced the Company's 2025 guidance-now projecting organic revenue growth of -2% to 0%. Avantor's management again attributed the Company's lackluster results and outlook to "increased competitive intensity" and further admitted that Avantor did not expect the competitive environment to materially improve in the remainder of 2025.On this news, Avantor's stock price fell $2.08 per share, or 15.48%, to close at $11.36 per share on August 1, 2025.Then, on October 29, 2025, Avantor reported weak third quarter 2025 financial results, including -5% organic revenue growth and a net loss of $712 million, which management primarily attributed to a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $785 million. Avantor's management said that the impairment charge was necessary due in part to "competitive pressures" that had "meaningfully impacted" Avantor's margins and further disclosed that the Company had lost several large accounts.On this news, Avantor's stock price fell $3.50 per share, or 23.21%, to close at $11.58 per share on October 29, 2025.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 14, 2025 / Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against WPP Plc ("WPP" or the "Company") (NYSE:WPP). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.The class action concerns whether WPP and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.You have until December 8, 2025, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired WPP securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com [Click here for information about joining the class action]On July 9, 2025, WPP published a trading update for the first half of 2025, advising investors that the Company had "seen a deterioration in performance as Q2 has progressed." The Company attributed its misfortune to both "continued macro uncertainty weighing on client spend and weaker net new business than originally anticipated," at least in part due to "some distraction to the business" as a result of the continued restructuring of WPP Media.On this news, WPP's American Depositary Receipt ("ADR") price fell $6.48 per ADR, or 18.09%, to close at $29.34 per ADR on July 9, 2025.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 14, 2025 / Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Quanex Building Products Corporation ("Quanex" or the "Company") (NYSE:NX). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.The class action concerns whether Quanex and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.You have until November 18, 2025 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired Quanex securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com [Click here for information about joining the class action]On September 4, 2025, after the market closed, Quanex announced its financial results for the third quarter of its 2025 fiscal year. Quanex disclosed, among other things, that ongoing "operational issues related to the legacy Tyman window and door hardware business in Mexico" had "impacted results more than expected[.]" Quanex also disclosed that it was "adjusting for lower expected volumes and pushing oug the timing of when [it] expect[s] to realize procurement savings" from integration of the Tyman business. Then, on September 5, 2025, Quanex held an earnings call to discuss the quarter's financial results. During the call, Chief Executive Officer George Wilson explained that the operational challenges at Tyman "negatively impacted EBITDA in the Hardware Solutions segment by almost $5 million in the third quarter alone." Wilson explained that the issue had been "identified midyear" and described the systems used to "anticipate and plan for tooling repairs" as significantly deficient.On this news, Quanex's stock price fell $2.73 per share, or 13.06%, to close at $18.18 per share on September 5, 2025.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP
The Museum of Women Artists of Africa (MOWAA) has postponed the public launch of its first exhibition, Nigeria Imaginary: Homecoming.

In a statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES on Saturday, the museum noted that the postponement was in response to recent unrest.

This newspaper reported that protests erupted during the exhibitions scheduled opening when armed individuals disrupted the event, reportedly detaining several foreign guests.

The demonstrators noted that the museum belonged to the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II. They stormed the venue with weapons, forcing an abrupt end to what was meant to be a private gathering for investors, artists, and diplomats.

The museum confirmed that the disturbances were linked to tensions between the former and current administrations of Edo State.

The museum added that the delay would allow them to collaborate with local and national authorities to ensure that MOWAA remains a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for all visitors.

The MOWAA Institutes important ongoing programmes in research, art conservation, education and professional training remain fully active whilst doors are closed to the public.

Resolution

MOWAA further stated that the postponement follows the establishment by President Bola Tinubu of a high-level Presidential committee tasked with creating a comprehensive framework to resolve all related issues through dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to constitutional provisions.

The resolution committee will be led by the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, and comprises representatives from the Presidency, the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, the National Council for Arts and Culture, the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, the Palace of the Oba of Benin, the Edo State Government, as well as international partners, including representatives from the German and French embassies.

The museum emphasised its commitment to harmonising Nigerias sovereign cultural interests with international collaborations and diplomatic considerations, ensuring benefits for its primary audiences.

The museum also reaffirmed its mission to inspire and empower the next generation of creatives, artists, and cultural leaders in Benin City, across Nigeria, and throughout West Africa.

It is a proud to work in alignment with other stakeholders and cultural Institutions across the region, together, galvanise the expansion of Benin City as a centre for cultural and artistic heritage, preserving an important past while catalysing a future that asserts the primacy of African and diasporic cultural production on its own terms.

MOWAA is positive that the continuation of these dialogues will clarify the institutions intentions to all, ensuring the Museum can soon welcome audiences to a fully operational, world-class centre which serves its core audienceslocal communities, national stakeholders and international visitorsin a transparent, accountable and culturally respectful manner, said MOWAA.

Respectful engagement

Furthermore, MOWAA Director Phillip Ihenacho emphasised that the organisation is committed to collaborating respectfully and collectively to support the preservation and promotion of Benin Citys rich cultural heritage and its people.

He noted that this commitment involves partnering with local leaders, cultural institutions, and other stakeholders to drive the citys economic growth and reinforce its status as a regional cultural hub.

Mr Ihenacho also highlighted that MOWAA holds Omo NOba NEdo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, in the highest regard and continues to maintain profound respect for the Benin Throne.

He said, We believe this moment can pave the way to renewed dialogue, engagement and understanding, so that together we can realise the full potential of what MOWAA can represent for Nigeria and Africa at large.

Ore Disu, Director of the MOWAA Institute, highlighted that the organisation has proven African narratives can be presented authentically, expressing pride and gratitude for the achievements so far.

She added that MOWAAs mission has always been to show that world-class conservation, research, and exhibition facilities can be successfully established within Nigeria.

This is a gift for Black and African people everywhere; for people today and future generations. We have deep respect for the monarch and people of Benin City. Over the last four years, we have sought to build inclusive practices that bring benefit to the city, its schools, universities, and families. We wish to deepen and improve on this, as we work towards welcoming others through our doors, she said.

Ms Musawa emphasised that cultural institutions form a core part of Nigerias national identity.

She stressed that safeguarding them requires a cooperative approach that honours both traditional custodians and contemporary organisational frameworks.
The acclaimed poetic-musical Firestarter the Musical is set to make its triumphant return to Lagos for 2025 year-end events, Detty December.

Following a mesmerising and fully sold-out debut in April, the group will return on stage on a special two-night engagement on 27 and 28 December 2025, at the prestigious Muson Centre, Onikan.

Firestarter the Musical is a bold fusion of evocative poetry, original music, and dance-driven storytelling, a journey of a womans quest for identity, voice, and freedom; of love, community, and resilience.

At its heart is the stirring story of Amina, a woman who has spent her life creating for others, only to realise that the most incredible creation is the self.

Firestarter the Musical was also created and produced by acclaimed poet and performer Shola Amaraibi, whose critically acclaimed poetry collection forms the foundation of the show, and directed by seasoned creative visionary Kenneth Uphopho.

Reviews

Speaking on the reviews from the performances premiere, the poet said, The response to our April premiere was nothing short of overwhelming.

We were inundated with messages from attendees who saw their own stories on that stage who felt seen, inspired, and empowered. Bringing Firestarter back during the holiday window is our way of answering that call: to close 2025 by reigniting the spark within each person and reminding them of their power, Ms Amaraibi said.

On his part, director Kenneth Uphopho added that, As an Artistic director, my dream is always to create work that doesnt just entertainbut transforms. The magic of Firestarter the Musical lies in its raw, poetic honesty.

With the Muson Centres Agip Recital Hall stage and an awesome technical capacity, were not merely repeating what audiences saw in April; were deepening the experience. Returning audiences will discover new layers; new audiences are in for something unforgettable, he said.

Holding the show in the festive zone, tagged Detty December, between Christmas and New Years positions it as an unmissable cultural moment for Lagosians and visitors alike, a joyful, reflective, and inspiring way to mark the end of the year.

Firestarter Collective

Firestarter the Musical is a flagship production of the Firestarter Collective and the Elevate Poetry Project, while Pawstudios Africa is the producing company.

This initiative represents a paradigm-shifting step in Afro-theatrical storytelling.

Developed from the poetry of Shola Amaraibi and directed by Kenneth Uphopho, the 90-minute experience blends fresh musical compositions, dynamic choreography, immersive stage design, and multi-sensory technology to create a world-class live theatre event.

A dramatic, inspiring, and community-centred production, Firestarter invites audiences not just to watch but to become agents of change, to kindle their own fire, challenge old stories, and step into new possibilities.
(This November 14 story is repeated without any changes to the text)

By Blake Brittain

(Reuters) -A federal jury in California said on Friday that Apple owes medical-monitoring technology company Masimo $634 million for infringing a patent covering blood-oxygen reading technology.

The jury agreed with Masimo that the Apple Watch's workout mode and heart rate notification features violated Masimo's patent rights, a Masimo spokesperson confirmed.

An Apple spokesperson said that the company disagrees with the verdict and will appeal.

"Over the past six years (Masimo has) sued Apple in multiple courts and asserted over 25 patents, the majority of which have been found to be invalid," the spokesperson said. "The single patent in this case expired in 2022, and is specific to historic patient monitoring technology from decades ago."

Masimo, in a statement, called the verdict "a significant win in our ongoing efforts to protect our innovations and intellectual property."

The California lawsuit is one branch of a contentious, multi-front patent fight between Apple and Irvine, California-based Masimo, which has accused Apple of hiring away its employees and stealing its pulse oximetry technology to use in Apple Watches.

The dispute led a U.S. trade tribunal to block imports of Apple's Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches in 2023 after finding that Apple's technology infringed Masimo's patents.

Apple removed blood-oxygen reading technology from its watches to avoid the ban and reintroduced an updated version of the technology in August with approval from U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

The ITC separately on Friday decided to hold a new proceeding to determine whether Apple's updated watches should be subject to the ban.

Masimo has filed an ongoing lawsuit against Customs over the decision. Apple has separately challenged the import ban at a federal appeals court.

A California judge declared a mistrial in Masimo's trade-secret case against Apple in 2023 after a jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict. Apple won a minimal $250 verdict against Masimo in Delaware last year over allegations that Masimo's smartwatches infringe two Apple design patents.

(Reporting by Blake Brittain in Washington; Editing by Rod Nickel and Andrea Ricci)
Actor Olanrewaju Baba Ijesha James has been released from prison three years after he was convicted of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that an Ikeja Special Offences Court convicted and sentenced him to 16 years imprisonment in July 2022.

Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo delivered the judgment after a rape trial that lasted for more than 12 months, following his arrest and arraignment in June 2021.

However, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Lagos State Command, Osho Onimisi, confirmed the actors release when contacted by this newspaper on Saturday morning.

Mr Onimisi stated that Baba Ijesha was released on Friday.

I just called the person in charge and he said he was released yesterday (Friday), he told this newspaper.

Yomi Fabiyi

This newspaper gathered that on Friday, actor and filmmaker Yomi Fabiyi, who has consistently called for the actors release, confirmed the development on his Instagram page that night.

He stated that his senior colleague was cleared by the Court of Appeal of all allegations of having sex with or defiling any child or minor.

You are now officially free and out. Baba Ijesha is not just back but better. I am also happy you were cleared by the Appeal Court of ever having sex/defiling any child/minor. The 7-year-old story is a charade. We live in a terrible world, where sentiments and wickedness rise above the rule of law and truth, said Fabiyi, whos also an activist.

He further alleged that specific individuals deliberately set a trap for Baba Ijesha by falsifying the victims age.

He insisted that no credible evidence have ever be presented, whether in court or elsewhere, to prove that the victim was 14 years old.

Weaponised narrative

Fabiyi added that these individuals weaponised the narrative of child abuse to destroy a vulnerable target and pursue a personal vendetta.

He said, Damola Adekola (Princess Comedian ally/neighbour and Security of the house with the alias Okele, who sexually abused this girl since 2020, is still out there. Damola Adekola, who had sex, confirmed the girl was his girlfriend and was asked to walk free despite initially being arrested alongside Baba Ijesha. Make it make sense: the same case, the same victim, the same investigation. Princess Comedian groomed the girl (minor) for sexual activities.

This is coupled with negligence because sperm was found on the girl days after Baba Ijesha was arrested, and it is not for Baba Ijesha. The test confirmed she had recently lost her virginity. Princess Comedian and her co-travellers engaged in child pornography by deliberately installing cameras on the same day Baba Ijesha was invited to act. She recorded how her foster daughter was sexually abused (that is, if the girl is truly 14 years old). The Princess Comedian subjected the girl to re-trauma. She practically wants the girl to suffer PTSD just because she wants to gather evidence (that is, if the girl is truly 14 years old). She abused the rights of the girl because she relied on her for food, shelter, and guidance.

Fabiyi emphasised that he had never condoned, and would never condone, any form of sexual abuse, particularly against children or minors.

He stated that he would continue to oppose selective justice, resist any abuse of fundamental human rights, and speak out against organised crime, citing the Baba Ijesha case as an example.

Prerequisites for Princess Comedian actions are erroneous. It has no propensity in law. Justice on two left, Fabiyi noted.

Backstory

This newspaper reported that a video clip showing Baba Ijesha sexually assaulting a minor went viral on social media on 19 April 2021.

The 14-year-old victim is the foster daughter of actress and comedienne Damilola Princess Adekoya.

That same day, Princess reported the sexual assault of a minor to the Sabo Police Station in Yaba, Lagos State, informing officers that the crime occurred in her home.

The case was later transferred to the Gender Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba, for further investigation.

Baba Ijesha was subsequently arrested on 22 April 2021.

The case drew sustained public attention from his arraignment on June 24, 2021, until February 14, 2022, when Justice Taiwo convicted and sentenced him to 16 years imprisonment.

During the trial, the prosecution presented six witnesses.

The team was initially led by the then Lagos State Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Olayinka Adeyemi, who Babajide Martins later replaced after she was appointed a judge of the Lagos State Judiciary.

The defence presented four witnesses, including Baba Ijesha himself.

His defence team comprised more than ten lawyers and was led by two Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Babatunde Ogala and Dada Awosika.
Actress and comedienne Damilola Princess Adekoya has reacted following the release of actor Olanrewaju Baba Ijesha James, three years after he was convicted of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that Baba Ijesha was released on Friday after serving his jail term, which Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo of Ikeja Special Offences Court handed down in July 2022.

The 14-year-old victim was Princesss foster daughter. Princess reported the assault to the Sabo Police Station in Yaba, Lagos State, and stated that the crime took place at her residence.

Addressing the criticism and backlash directed at her following Baba Ijeshas release, Princess posted a video on her Instagram page on Saturday where she sarcastically challenged her critics to send their daughters to Baba Ijesha for Christmas.

Beneficial release

She further explained that while Baba Ijeshas release was not entirely good news, there were aspects she considered positive, outlining three ways in which she described his release as beneficial.

Princess said, The good news is that Baba Ijesha had dozens of victims during investigations. I spoke and met with about 12 of his victims. So the first news is that at least those of his victims who couldnt speak out, I know that on one side, some of them feel as if maybe they got little justice because we all know Baba Ijesha should be behind bars for life.

The number two is for the few years that he was incarcerated; there were no new victims, at least from him.

Weve seen so many other cases that ended badly, but at least for those years Baba Ijesha stayed away, he could not harm anyone, so thats another upside. The third upside is that now everyone is aware. So, when they see him, they know theyll be careful.

You know what to do if you own a school and see Baba Ijesha around your premises. Hotels, because hes a known serial pedophile and serial rapist.

She further warned landlords to exercise caution around Baba Ijesha, alleging that he had also sexually assaulted an adult.

Im saying this clearly because he also has adult victims, and Im sure if you need to know more about that, just watch my old videos. Its not a matter of because Im not a child; he does it to children and adults. There have been women who have come out. Thats another one, then landlords now know that this is the person that Baba Ijesha is, so you dont have an excuse, Princess added.

Gods punishment

Furthermore, Princess responded to the backlash, claiming that God would punish her for sending Baba Ijesha to prison, emphasising that God does not condone child abuse.

She asserted that Baba Ijesha was a convicted serial paedophile and rapist.

I dont really understand the depth of your understanding, but I want to ask you how God punished me. So you think God supports child defilement or rape? Do you think there are some countries where we all know that is the ultimate penalty if this happens? Come on; theres no need for us to fool ourselves.

Baba Ijesha is a serial pedophile and serial rapist. He has served his full term, and we have publications, of course, we already posted on my page.

He appealed several times ago, so I have the data and documentation. He appealed, and every time his appeal was flung out, and the last one, the appeal court still upheld their judgment that no go back serve your term.

Princess clarified the misconception that Baba Ijesha did not complete his jail term.

Nobody freed him, no, he served his term for this crime. I keep saying this crime because during the trial, I remembered one of the victims who wanted to give testimony. She was threatened, so at the last minute, she couldnt testify in open court even though she came. Its not all of us that are strong.

For those who have family members who have experienced any form of abuse, especially when is sexual abuse of a minor, you will agree with me that survivors find it tough especially being dragged through the media and all that so you cant blame them so whenever they decide on their own that theyve had enough well the ball is in their courts.

Appeal

Princess further stated that she had fulfilled her duty in ensuring Baba Ijesha faced justice.

She appealed to the Lagos State Ministry of Justice to officially record Baba Ijeshas name among those convicted of sexual assault.

The actress added, I have done mine as a Nigerian, as a concerned mother, as a person to make sure that we rid our community, society of this evil because it is evil. I repeat, it is cruel for anyone.

I dont care who you are, what position you hold, for you to sexually assault or sexually abuse anyone, most importantly, a minor. I also want to urge the Lagos State Government and the Department of Justice to please publish his name because what happens is that when people have been convicted.

Most offenders their names are published in the sex offenders register but because he was appealing at that time and we didnt know where the case would go, in fact it was finally pushed to Supreme Court but hes already served his term and his appeal was thrown out so I would appeal to the Department of Justice just as you swiftly post other people who have been convicted of crimes like this so kindly post his name in the sex offenders register so that people will be aware.

Princess further alleged that Baba Ijesha would soon commit the same offence, adding that he didnt stop his attack.

Hes swift, and I will know in the next month. So, for those who are stubborn and believe you can give him your home, rent out your house to him, or allow him around your kids, good luck.

He has done it to children, somebody who suffers from dwarfism, he has done it to a mentally challenged person, a physically challenged person and like I said, he has also done it to some of the people registered to act with him, so you have the information.
The federal government has said it is pushing forward with ongoing health sector reforms aimed at strengthening Nigerias healthcare system and improving health outcomes.

It, however, admitted that funding gaps and longstanding resource constraints continue to undermine progress in the sector.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, made this known on Friday at the close of the 2025 Joint Annual Review of the Health Sector themed All Hands, One Mission: Bringing Nigerias Health Sector to Light, in Abuja.

Mr Pate said the administration is intensifying investments in health infrastructure, human resources, vaccines, and essential commodities, describing the efforts as central to sustaining early gains under President Bola Tinubus Renewed Hope Agenda.

He emphasised that the government must scale up funding if reforms are to translate into meaningful improvements.

We need to continue to push forward by investing in infrastructure and human resources so that our citizens can access better quality healthcare and improved overall health outcomes, he said.

He added, But there are challenges ahead. The resourcing of health will need to be optimised and increased, with sufficient funds available for vaccines, commodities and other essential needs.

Systemic challenges

Nigerias health sector has, for years, faced deep systemic weaknesses that continue to undermine access to quality care for millions of citizens.

Despite being Africas most populous country, Nigeria ranks among the nations with the highest maternal and child mortality rates globally, a situation driven by inadequate primary healthcare coverage, weak referral systems, frequent stock-outs of essential medicines, and shortages of skilled health workers.

Improvements recorded, but uneven progress

Mr Pate noted that early indicators suggest the ongoing reforms are beginning to yield positive results, including declines in mortality rates and expanded primary healthcare delivery across several states.

We are seeing progress. The mortality rate is beginning to decline, including newborn mortality. Primary healthcare is expanding. States and the private sector have stayed keyed in, and civil society is engaged, he said.

He added that development partners are aligning behind national priorities set by the President and coordinating interventions within the governments Sector-Wide Approach.

Mr Pate described the Joint Annual Review as a demonstration of a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to improve the health of Nigerians.

He acknowledged support from all participants and reassured that the government is committed to sustaining momentum in the coming years.

He said the administration would not slow down as they will continue to work hard into 2026 and beyond so that we take this country to the higher level as envisioned by our President.

The citizens of Nigeria are recognising the leadership of President Tinubu in this direction and are gaining confidence. We will not let them down he said.
Fatima Sulaimon, 35, had her fifth child on a tiny fishing canoe. It happened in the dead of night, five years ago, in Agboyi, a riverine community under the Kosofe Local Government Area of Lagos State.

Agboyi comprises three main areas: Agboyi I, II, and III, all of which are surrounded by the Lagos Lagoon. The settlement suffers severe flooding not just during heavy rains but also when water levels rise or when excess water is released from the Oyan River Dam in Ogun State.

When these waters surge, the streets turn into a dark, impassable lagoon. The only way to reach the mainland is by canoe or boat. When PREMIUM TIMES visited the community on 11 October, this reporter had to navigate the flooded streets wearing high rubber boots, confirming the residents daily struggles.

This was the barrier Mrs Sulaimon faced that night.

A night on water

When her labour started around 11 p.m., she was already at the home of a local nurse who served as the communitys birth attendant, a necessity in Agboyi, where hospitals are miles away and primary health centres barely function.

But the labour became difficult, she recalled. The nurse was scared and said she couldnt handle it.

Her family began searching desperately for a boat. They eventually got a fishing canoe to help at 1 a.m., she said softly.

As the small canoe rocked on the dark water, Mrs Suleimon struggled through her contractions and delivered the baby herself.

They turned back because the hospital was still far away, leaving the nurse to clean up and remove the placenta.

If not for the flooding in the streets, it would have been easier. Because everywhere was flooded, we couldnt get anything, Mrs Sulaimon said.

Minutes lost, lives lost

Accessing immediate specialised care is a challenge for pregnant women in an environment where rising waters turn homes and streets into extensions of the lagoon.

For an unconscious pregnant woman that we need to rush out for an emergency, we have to look for canoe or boat drivers. This is time-consuming, said Taibat Salako, a nurse who has served in the Agboyi community for over 15 years.

She recalled a case in May of a woman who died after flooding delayed her transfer to a hospital.

She had given birth but was bleeding. From 6 a.m., struggling to keep her alive, we arrived at Gbagada by 9 a.m., and she had already given up, she said.

The Agboyi riverbank to Gbagada General Hospital is about a 20-minute drive.

Elizabeth Ajamobe, another nurse in the community, said when a woman is in labour and complications arise, they immediately ask her to find a way out of here.

The constant inundation has forced residents to live in perpetual adaptation, using crates or kegs to raise their belongings.

For someone who is in labour and is walking gently, it is quite difficult to adapt, Fatimoh Adetoyi, a resident of Agboyi, said. Some women give birth on the small walkways we constructed, some give birth inside the boat. We have had cases where we were the ones to rescue them.

The Baale of Agboyi III, Lateef Adeshina, lamented the despair of the residents.

Particularly, our pregnant women face serious challenges when it is time for them to deliver because we have to get them on a boat to cross quickly. As a result of this, we have lost our loved ones.

Floods raise mortality risk

Studies have shown that floods do more than destroy property; they endanger womens lives.

A May 2025 study, titled Flooding and Waterborne Diseases Affecting Pregnant Women in Lagos Slums, found that exposure to unsanitary floodwaters significantly increases the risks of miscarriage, preterm birth, and maternal mortality.

Globally, a 2024 analysis of more than 3,000 studies reported that any flood increases preterm births by about three per cent and raises the risk of low birth weight by seven per cent. Researchers attribute this to stress-induced early labour and the inability to reach healthcare in time to prevent complications.

In Lagos, the scale is high, as confirmed by the 2024 joint post-flood assessment by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), which found that 7,672 pregnant and breastfeeding women were directly affected during the last major flood, including 4,140 pregnant women alone.

The report warned that this group faces significant health risks due to limited access to care. The assessment, which covered 81 locations in 14 LGAs, specifically found that Kosofe LGA (home to Agboyi) was the second-worst-hit area in the state, with 31,019 individuals affected.

For 2025, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) projected above-normal rainfall, a trend scientists confirm is due to climate change. The Lagos State Government confirmed this forecast, predicting an average annual rainfall of nearly 2,000 millimetres, significantly higher than the long-term average.

Water, waste, and disease

Each year, as rainfall intensifies, floodwaters mix with sewage and refuse from clogged drains, spreading diseases like cholera.

As of September 2024, Lagos accounted for 60 per cent of Nigerias suspected cholera cases, a figure tied to sanitation failure in flood-prone neighbourhoods.

A Lagos-based public health physician, Mariam Oshodi, highlighted the particular danger for pregnant women.

Flooding directly endangers maternal health and mental well-being, contributing to higher risks of mortality and morbidity. This is an issue that must be addressed urgently, Mrs Oshodi said.

It is a profound gendered crisis that demands immediate, gender-responsive climate action and targeted public health interventions.

Locked health centre

At the heart of Agboyi stands what should have been a symbol of hope: a 40-bed primary healthcare centre completed earlier this year.

Constructed by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (OSSAP-SDGs), led by Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, a former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, it was meant to serve Agboyi I, II, and III.

But months after completion, the centre remains unopened. Its walkway and ground floor are submerged, doors are locked, and equipment has been pushed upstairs to escape the floodwater.

They even brought a generator and some hospital equipment, said Shakiru Olaiya, chairman of the communitys Ward Health Committee. But since the flood entered, everything has been moved upstairs. We need them to refill and refloor the place so it can start functioning.

We want the health centre to start functioning, Taiwo Lamina, the king of Agboyi II, said. It will really help us in emergencies. Weve waited too long.

When PREMIUM TIMES contacted OSSAP-SDGs, its spokesperson, Desmond Utomwen, confirmed that the centre had been completed but was temporarily inaccessible due to flooding.

Following a formal request from the people of Agboyi, under the leadership of the Royal Father of the three riverine communities of Agboyi I, II, and III, the OSSAP-SDGs approved and undertook the construction of a Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) to serve the communities and their surrounding areas, Mr Utomwen said on 1 November.

We wish to confirm that the PHC has recently been completed. However, due to the release of water from the Oyan Dam, the community and some neighbouring areas are currently experiencing flooding, which has temporarily affected access to the facility.

He said officials from both OSSAP-SDGs and the Lagos State government have visited the site and agreed on a lasting solution.

An elevated platform will be constructed to permanently address the access issue once the water subsides, he noted.

Floods that never leave

When heavy rainfall coincides with the release of excess water from the Oyan Dam, the river overflows its banks, locking up drainage and trapping Agboyi homes in water.

Joseph Ibrahim, a climate activist and programme manager at the Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP), said Lagoss geography makes it particularly vulnerable.

The state lies along the coast and is surrounded by rivers and lagoons. As global temperatures rise, evaporation increases, leading to heavier rainfall. Rapid urban development and inadequate drainage mean the city cannot cope, Mr Ibrahim explained.

He added, Women and children bear the brunt of such disasters. Lagos needs deliberate investment in flood-resilient infrastructure to protect these vulnerable groups.

According to Ganiu Ajadi, director of Drainage Construction and Dredging at the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment, flooding is a recurring consequence of the states geography and climate.

Lagos faces seasonal flooding, worsened by water release from the OgunOsun River Basin, he said. When water levels rise at the lagoon, drainage becomes difficult. We also receive water from Oyo, Osun, and Ogun states, which makes it complex.

Double burden in Amukoko

In Amukoko, located under the Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area, the story is similar; however, here the floods bring filth.

Residents say the main canal, which should drain stormwater into the lagoon, has not been dredged in over four years. With every rainfall, water mixed with waste spills into homes and shops, further worsened by a poor drainage system. The most affected streets include Olatunji and Townhall.

When it rains for 30 minutes, we cant go out again, said Temitayo Adigun, who gave birth during one of the floods. I had to use a traditional birth attendant close by because the health centre wasnt accessible.

The Oridilu Primary Health Centre, located directly along a flood-prone street (Town Hall), is also affected and becomes unusable when the community is flooded after heavy rain.

Even the nurses dont come when its flooded, said Ramat Jaiyeola. Last year, a woman selling brooms fell into the canal and died because it was overgrown with weeds. They found her body five days later.

The Baale of Oridilu, Lateef Olatunji, believes the situation persists due to poor maintenance.

The government needs strict canal maintenance and enforcement of proper sanitation and waste management, Mr Olatunji said. The wooden bridge raised from inside the canal has worsened the situation. We want a motorable bridge.

Money flows, but water stays

Although residents of Amukoko say recurrent flooding is worsened by a canal that has not been cleared for at least four years, budget records show the Lagos State government has consistently allocated billions for drainage and canal dredging across the state.

Data from the Lagos State Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget indicate that N33.26 billion was approved in 2024 for Drainage Construction and Dredging (Statewide), rising to N49.76 billion in 2025.

Other allocations include N14.8 billion for drainage construction and N17.8 billion for dredging.

In 2023, N13.65 billion was earmarked for statewide dredging, with N9.36 billion for drainage construction and maintenance.

In his comments, Mr Ajadi of the Lagos Ministry of Environment confirmed that a contractor has been mobilised to start dredging the canal he identified as Baale Okoya.

Work is expected to start within two weeks, he said on 2 November, noting that some delays were due to limited funds.

He added, Residents often dispose of refuse into canals, which blocks water flow. The government cannot police every area. Communities must also take ownership.

Still, for many in Amukoko, the gap between state budgets and results remains wide, leaving them to confront floodwaters season after season.

The Lagos State Government often insists that drainage rehabilitation and dredging are ongoing, but the reality in Agboyi and Amukoko tells another story.

For residents, it is difficult to trust promises when they live surrounded by water every year. We appreciate the government, said Mr Olatunji of Amukoko. But until the canal is cleared and the bridge fixed, nothing will change.

This report is part of Project HER, a collaborative initiative under the Africa Health Communications Fellowship (AHCF) by frayCollege.
The State Security Services (SSS) says it has re-arrested Abdulazeez Obadaki, a commander of the Ansaru terrorist group who escaped during the 2022 Kuje Custodial Centre jailbreak and has been on the run for more than three years.

The secret police disclosed this in a statement it shared with PREMIUM TIMES Friday evening.

The SSS said Mr Obadaki, also known as Bomboy, orchestrated the 7 August 2012 mass shooting at a Deeper Life Bible Church near Okene, Kogi State, where armed men opened fire on worshippers during a service, killing at least 19 people, including the pastor.

Several others were injured in the attack that signalled insurgents expansion from north-east to north-central and south-west Nigeria.

At the time, Boko Haram, also known as Jamatu Ahlis Sunna Liddaawati wal-Jihad (JAS), was suspected to have carried out the attack. Six months earlier, it had claimed responsibility for an attack on a Kogi prison that freed more than 100 inmates, including Abu Baraa, a former Boko Haram commander who co-founded Ansaru.

Abu Baraa and his brothers-in-arms formed Ansaru following a 2012 schism that rocked Boko Haram over monetary and doctrinal issues.

Security experts believe that Abu Bara, who hails from Okene, Kogi, facilitated the recruitment of many youths from the area, making Ansarus impact felt in the North-central state and beyond. However, experts attributed most attacks around Kogi to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), another breakaway faction of Boko Haram.

He has now been re-arrested alongside one of his commanders, Mallam Mamuda, whose unit continues to terrorise residents of Niger and Kwara states near the Kainji National Park. PREMIUM TIMES peofiled the two Ansaru leaders here.

The re-arrest of Obadaki

The SSS said its operatives recaptured Mr Obadaki in a well-oiled intelligence operation on Friday morning. It did not share the details of the arrest.

The secret police said Mr Obadaki confessed to orchestrating the Kuje Custodial centre jailbreak following his transfer from Kabba Custodial Centre in June 2022.

PREMIUM TIMES could not independently verify this claim.

However, checks on the details of the terrorists declared wanted by the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) following the Kuje prison attack show that Mr Obadaki was 58th on the list.

Following the Okene massacre, Mr Obadaki, according to the SSS, was also linked to the violent daylight robbery of five commercial banks in Uromi, Edo State.

The robbery, staged in February 2022, claimed eight lives including two police officers, while 12 others were injured.

Following his escape from Kuje prison, the SSS said Mr Obadaki went into hiding. It remains unclear where he hid during the three-year manhunt or whether officials have identified those who aided him in achieving this.

His arrest comes about two months after the SSS arraigned five suspects connected to the 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State.
The police have repelled an attack by bandits in Adekanbi village near Bode Saadu in Moro Local Government Area of Kwara State, leaving one suspect dead and a rifle recovered.

The incident occurred on Friday morning.

Confirming the operation, the Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said officers moved in after receiving intelligence that armed bandits were sighted occupying a fortified hilltop in the area.

She added that the suspects opened fire on the team, and a counter-engagement forced them to flee with suspected injuries.

According to her, a post-operation sweep led to the recovery of one neutralised suspect, an AK49 rifle, and thirty two rounds of live ammunition.

The development comes about 25 hours after the police foiled an attempted armed robbery in Ilorin.

In that case, Mrs Ejire-Adeyemi said a resident, Abdulazeez Ishaq, reported that a man identified as Adekoya Opeyemi, known as Justice, confessed he was contracted to kill him and steal his Honda Accord.

She explained that the police advised the complainant to cooperate with the suspects while surveillance was set up.

The suspect was arrested at the agreed location as he attempted to take possession of the car, she said.

The police said they will continue operations across identified flashpoints in the state.
Katsina Central Senator, Abdulaziz Yaradua, has clarified that his proposed bill to repeal and re-enact the Armed Forces Act, 2004, does not seek to empower civil courts to try military officers in place of court-martials.

The bill passed second reading at the Senate on Thursday and was referred to the Senate Committees on Defence, Army, Air Force, and Navy for further deliberation and a public hearing. The committees were directed to report back within four weeks.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that the bill aimed to empower civil courts to handle trials of military officers for various offences, as against the current court-martial system.

However, in a statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES on Friday, Mr Yaradua, a retired lieutenant colonel, explained that the bill instead seeks to give military legal officers the authority to represent the armed forces in civil courts, similar to the existing practices in the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada.

He stressed that the bill is not intended to undermine the jurisdiction of court-martials or the military justice system. Rather, it aims to create an expanded legal framework that allows the armed forces to function more effectively in a modern era.

Specifically, the bill seeks to grant military legal officers the power to represent the Armed Forces in civil courts, similar to practices in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

This provision is not intended to undermine the jurisdiction of court-martials or the military justice system. Rather, it is designed to provide an additional legal framework for the Armed Forces to operate effectively in the modern era, he said.

A further review of the draft bill seen by this newspaper did not show any provision empowering civil courts to try military officers.

Section 291 of the Principal Act is altered to include: In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, Military Justice System means the entire judicial process within the armed forces, including court martial proceedings. Litigation Expenses means all costs incurred in representing the Armed Forces in civil court cases, including but not limited to attorney fees, court fees, and associated administrative costs.

Section 123 (2) states that No service personnel shall be tried based on an investigation report that has not been reviewed by the Directorate of Legal Services. This mandates that investigation reports be reviewed by the Directorate of Legal Services before they can be tried.

Section 100, which explains offences in relation to court martial, states that (1) No authority convening a general or special court-martial, or conducting summary trial-

(a)may censure, reprimand, or admonish the court or any member, judge advocate, or prosecuting counsel, with respect to the findings or sentence adjudged by the court, or with respect to any other exercises of functions in the conduct of the proceedings, or

(b)attempts to coerce or, by any unauthorised means, influence the action of a court-martial or summary trial in reaching the findings or sentence in any case, or the action of any convening, approving, or reviewing authority with respect to the proceedings.

(3)Without prejudice to the foregoing provisions of subsection (1), the following shall not apply with respect to;

(a)general instruction or information for guidance in military justice if such instruction or information or guidance is designed solely for the purpose of members of a command in the substantive and procedural aspects of courts-martial, or

(b) The general instruction or information, or guidance statements, is given in open court by the judge advocate or president of a general or special court-martial, or prosecuting counsel.

This proposed amendment safeguards judicial independence in military justice by prohibiting undue influence on court-martial proceedings. It also ensures verdicts are based solely on legal merits while allowing general legal guidance.

But during Thursdays plenary debate, some senators based their contributions on the assumption that the bill sought to shift trials of military officers to civil courts.

For instance, Borno North Senator, Tahir Monguno, argued that the proposed legislation primarily seeks to ensure that offences committed by military personnel are subjected to civil court processes before any conviction is upheld.

Mr Monguno said, What this bill essentially seeks to do, or achieve, or the lacuna that it seeks to cure is that, one, it desires to give our military law not only in tandem with international best practice, but to bring it in consonance with universally acceptable, democratic principles, one of fair hearing.

For example, what this bill seeks to achieve is that reports or enquiries set up by military authorities to not serve as a basis for conviction, but rather should be subjected to a trial by a court of law before such conviction shall be upheld. Because, as it is, it violates the principles of  you cannot be a judge in your own cause. So this is a very fundamental principle of law that this bill seeks to achieve.

And then the other arm is the enlistment of forces below the age of 18, which is now under the military law as it is now. This bill seeks to clearly state that people who are below the age of 18 cannot be enlisted into the armed forces.

This bill also seeks to subject military authorities to the command of the commander-in-chief, that is, the democratically elected president, or in a nutshell, subject weighty authorities to the authority of democratically elected institutions so that they cannot be masters of themselves. Essentially, this bill is very important, and I urge my colleagues to support the second reading of this bill with the speed of light, he said during the debate.
Troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have intensified operations across the country, neutralising scores of terrorists, rescuing 67 kidnapped victims and arresting 94 criminal suspects in two weeks.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Olatokunbo Bello, a major general, disclosed on Friday in Abuja, while giving an update on military operations conducted between 3 and 14 November.

Mr Bello said troops recovered large quantities of arms and ammunition, including automatic rifles, machine guns, RPG tubes, locally fabricated weapons, and IED-making materials, in addition to destroying criminal camps and logistics bases.

In the North-east, he said the troops of Operation Hadin Kai sustained offensive actions in Borno and Adamawa States, killing several Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters.

According to him, troops also apprehended 45 terrorists informants, collaborators and logistics suppliers, and rescued one kidnapped victim.

Mr Bello said the troops of Operation Fansan Yamma, in the North-west, killed several terrorists across Sokoto, Zamfara, Niger, Katsina, Kebbi and Kano States during the period.

He added that troops arrested two suspects and rescued 13 kidnapped victims, while recovering weapons, vehicles and livestock.

In the North-central, Mr Bello said the troops of Operation Enduring Peace responded to multiple attacks in Plateau and Kaduna States, killing extremists, arresting 16 suspects, and rescuing five kidnapped victims.

According to him, a notorious criminal, Ibrahim Wakili, was also arrested in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State on 9 November.

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke recorded further successes in Kogi, Kwara, Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba States, killing several criminals, arresting 10 suspects, and rescuing 48 kidnapped victims.

Additionally, two gunrunners and two extremist collaborators were arrested in Nasarawa State, he said.

The defence spokesperson further disclosed that troops of Operation Delta Safe foiled oil theft worth over N15.8 million in the Niger Delta region during the period.

He added that several illegal refining sites were discovered and destroyed, as well as the arrest of nine suspected oil thieves in Bayelsa and Delta States.

In the South-east, Mr Bello said the troops of Operation Udo Ka had sustained pressure on criminal elements, killing one terrorist and arresting seven others in operations conducted in Imo, Enugu, Akwa Ibom and Cross River States.

He commended the troops for their resilience and urged the media to continue disseminating accurate and verified information in support of national security efforts.

(NAN)
Traditional rulers in the South-west geopolitical zone have called for robust support for the Special Seats Bill, which is currently before the National Assembly for consideration.

The traditional rulers, led by the Ooni of Ife, Enitan Ogunwusi, made the call on Friday in Abuja at a parley organised by the National Institute for Democratic and Legislative Studies (NILDS) to garner support for the bill to be passed by the 10th National Assembly.

The Special Seats Bill proposes additional constitutionally-backed seats for women across federal and state legislative assemblies.

The bill, if passed into law, analysts said, would correct decades-long gender imbalance in political representation in the country.

Mr Ogunwusi, who described the bill as a long-overdue corrective instrument, urged lawmakers to align legislative authority with moral responsibility by supporting more representation for women in the countrys political space.

The traditional ruler said, Women produce, nurture and multiply everything we give them, yet we treat them as afterthoughts. It is not fair, the Ooni declared to thunderous applause.

We must give them more inclusion, more participation in anything we do. This initiative is yielding results already, and we traditional rulers stand firmly behind it, he added.

Harping on how Nigeria treats women, using an analogy, the Ooni said: We treat them like caterpillars that clear the road. After they prepare the road, we tell them they cannot pass. Is that fair? No.

Traditional rulers, he said, would mobilise their constituencies, particularly in the South-west, to ensure broad-based political backing for the bill

We understand how to speak to our subjects. We will engage them. We are not using force but appealing with wisdom, he said.

Mr Ogunwusi used the occasion to commend Nigerias First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, whom he described as mother of the nation, praising her decades-long commitment to girl-child education and womens empowerment.

A lot of the seeds she planted are the fruits we are celebrating today, he said.

Parley convened to build momentum for the bill ahead of constitutional amendments  NILDS DG

In his opening remarks at the occasion, the Director-General of NILDS, Abubakar Sulaiman, said the convening was specifically designed to build political momentum ahead of constitutional amendments.

He noted that Nigeria currently sits at less than five per cent womens representation, one of the lowest globally, and that existing electoral frameworks have failed to produce equitable outcomes despite multiple advocacy cycles.

Mr Sulaiman, a professor, said, The Special Seats Bill is a temporary but necessary affirmative action measure, grounded in constitutional equality and aligned with global commitments such as CEDAW and the Maputo Protocol.

The director general cited continental examples to underscore the bills transformative potential, asserting that affirmative action works.

He highlighted successful models across Africa, including Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Senegal, arguing that affirmative action has consistently delivered stronger governance outcomes.

Mr Sulaiman noted that increased womens presence in these countries has led to championing policies concerning education, healthcare, social welfare, and human security, directly impacting household well-being and societal stability.

When women are at the table, policy outcomes become more responsive to education, healthcare, social welfare and human security. This is not theory, African evidence shows it, he said.

The DG stressed that for the legislative reform to be sustainable, it must gain legitimacy not only from institutions but also from societal and cultural values.

He commended the presence of the Ooni of Ife, describing it as a powerful demonstration of how traditional leadership can complement modern governance structures in driving transformative policy change.

Civil society leaders speak

Some civil society leaders also made presentations at the parley.

Ene Obi, former Country Director of ActionAid and a leading member of the 100 Women Lobby Group, underscored the urgency of legislative intervention to provide for womens representation.

According to Ms Obi, 14 state assemblies in Nigeria have no female members.

She said, In these states, committees on womens affairs are chaired and manned entirely by men. How do we expect policies that affect womens lives, maternal health, gender-based violence, and education to be properly addressed when those who understand the pain are absent from the table?

Nigeria ranks among the bottom five globally in maternal mortality, she affirmed.

ALSO READ: Ooni of Ife inspires new wave of female tech talents in Lagos

She said, Every pregnant woman in Nigeria is on a death row. If women are not in the room when decisions are made, then their issues will never make it to the agenda.

She recalled that during the Ninth Assembly, five gender bills, including one on special seats, were thrown out, which led to weeks of protest by womens groups who blockaded the National Assembly gates.

She said, We burnt in the Abuja sun for four legislative weeks, and yet they did not hear us. But the 10th Assembly has given us hope. They promised not to throw away gender bills again.

She urged lawmakers to aim higher than the current numbers, arguing that proportional representation demands at least eight additional Senate seats rather than six.

About the Special Seats Bill

The bill seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to create additional legislative seats specifically for women in the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly.

At the National Assembly level, the bill proposes one special seat reserved exclusively for women in the Senate and House of Representatives for each state and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), totalling 74 additional seats at the federal level.

The bill proposes three special seats for women in the Houses of Assembly of each state, totalling 108 additional seats.

The seats are designed as a temporary special measure to address the low representation of women and would be contested and filled only by women in general elections.

The bill has passed Second Reading in the House of Representatives and has been referred to the House Committee on Constitution Review for further legislative action.

The parley ended with a shared commitment to establish a regional advocacy framework anchored on South-west traditional rulers, legislators and womens groups, with NILDS providing technical support.

The Ooni closed the session with a final charge: We have seen how our young women excel in schools and across sectors.

They will lead this nation one day, if we create space for them now. The legislative arm is the next frontier, and we are here to make history, he added.

Several traditional rulers and leading womens groups attended the gathering.
A broad coalition of political leaders, civil society advocates, labour figures, and democracy campaigners has launched a new national movement aimed at rescuing Nigerias electoral system from decades of manipulation, insecurity, and institutional decay.

The coalition, known as the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE), emerged from the 2025 National Political Summit on Credible Elections and Political Stability of Nigeria, held on Tuesday in Abuja.

Convened by the National Consultative Front (NCFront) in partnership with the Labour & Civil Society Front (LCSF), the summit brought together more than 600 delegates representing political parties, government agencies, the private sector, the diaspora community, academia, and civic networks.

Themed Critical & Mandatory Constitutional Amendments for Credible Elections in 2027, the gathering sought to develop a unified national framework for rescuing Nigerias electoral process ahead of the next general election.

The event opened with messages from former President Goodluck Jonathan; former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf; former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi; and former presidential candidate Peter Obi.

Other prominent contributors included NLC President Joe Ajaero; Pat Utomi, who chaired the organising committee; former Minister and keynote speaker Oby Ezekwesili; Shehu Sani; IPAC Chairman Mamman Dantalle; Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim; and legal expert Adewole Adebayo.

Summit warns of deepening insecurity

Discussions were dominated by concerns over Nigerias worsening security crisis and the implications of external warnings, particularly from United States President Donald Trump, on the countrys internal political stability.

Speakers argued that the governments failure to address rising banditry, terrorism, and violent crime has emboldened non-state actors and weakened public trust in state authority.

They warned that Nigerias sovereignty is now vulnerable to foreign intervention because the state has failed in its primary obligation to guarantee safety.

Delegates described the deteriorating security landscape as a direct threat to the 2027 elections, noting that large swathes of the country may be inaccessible if urgent reforms are not implemented. Many insisted that credible elections cannot take place under an atmosphere of fear, forced displacement, and systemic voter suppression.

Participants also criticised Nigerias political parties, noting their weak internal democracy, abuse of candidate-selection processes, and poor regulation.

They argued that political parties have become platforms for transactional politics rather than institutions responsible for producing credible leaders. This, they said, has created a governance crisis in which unprepared or compromised individuals ascend to public office.

A call to end the culture of election rigging

Stakeholders unanimously condemned the entrenched culture of rigging, inducement, ballot snatching, vote suppression, falsification of results, and post-election litigation that has characterised Nigerias elections for decades.

They stressed that unless these practices are dismantled, the credibility of the 2027 polls will remain in doubt, and the legitimacy of the next government could be severely undermined.

Speakers noted that public confidence in elections has collapsed because outcomes often do not reflect votes cast at polling units.

Many recalled instances in past elections where judicial decisions, not citizens ballots, determined winners. This, they argued, has damaged Nigerias democracy and discouraged voter participation.

Far-reaching reform proposals adopted

At the end of deliberations, the summit adopted several recommendations aimed at transforming the countrys electoral architecture.

A major emphasis was placed on ensuring that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) receives its funding directly from the Federation Account to prevent undue influence from any branch of government.

There was a strong call for the commission to operate an open budget system, allowing civil society to scrutinise its expenditures and procurement processes.

Stakeholders also insisted on granting INEC the constitutional authority to prosecute electoral offenders without relying on the Police or the Office of the Attorney-General.

They urged the National Assembly to legislate early voting, diaspora voting, electronic voting, and real-time electronic transmission of results, arguing that these mechanisms would drastically reduce manipulation.

Early voting, diaspora voting, electronic voting, and real-time electronic transmission of results should be made legally mandatory to reduce or eradicate manipulation and circumvention of election results, they said.

Another strong recommendation was the need to reform the process of appointing INEC commissioners. Delegates argued that appointments must be insulated from the Executive and entrusted to a broad mix of respected national stakeholders to ensure neutrality.

They further criticised the current trend where courts, rather than polling units, determine the final outcome of elections, describing it as an aberration that erodes public trust.

In addition, the summit called for a constitutional amendment that would provide special seats for women and vulnerable groups to ensure greater inclusivity in governance.

The National Assembly should be compelled to provide for special seats for women and other vulnerable groups in the constitution to be elected and participate in governance.

Delegates also proposed that the burden of proof in election petitions should shift from candidates to INEC, which should defend the results it declares.

One of the major highlights of the summit was the formal launch of the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE), envisioned as a broad national platform mobilising citizens ahead of 2027 to demand clean elections and challenge manipulation.

The movement seeks to build alliances across regions, ethnicities, professions, and political interests to ensure that rigging becomes politically costly and socially unacceptable.

Interim Steering Council

A 23-member Interim Steering Council was inaugurated to lead the new platform. Mr Utomi will serve as chairman, with former NLC President Ayuba Wabba as co-chair.

Other key leaders include Usman Bugaje (Deputy Chair, North), Nkoyo Toyo (Deputy Chair, South), human rights lawyer Femi Falana, Shehu Sani, Ankio Briggs, Bilikisu Magoro, Ene Obi, and Peter Ameh.

James Ezema, who signed the communique, was named Media Coordinator, while Olawale Okunniyi will head the secretariat.

The steering team also includes youth leaders, finance directors, mobilisation coordinators, and communication experts tasked with shaping the movements national outreach.

They are Alex Adum, Promise Adewusi, who serves as Director of Administration; Chris Uyot, Director of Mobilisation; Hamisu Turaki, Director of Mobilisation; Chris Iyovwaye, Director of Finance; Chris Azor, Director of Mobilisation; Mark Adebayo, Director of Mobilisation; Mustapha Nwaokobia, Director of Communications; Peter Akah, Director of Publicity; Kamal Ahmed, Youth Coordinator; and Hauwa Mustapha, Deputy Head of Secretariat.
OMAHA, Neb. (AP)  New data the Agriculture Department released Friday created serious doubts about whether China will really buy millions of bushels of American soybeans like the Trump administration touted last month after a high-stakes meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

The USDA report released after the government reopened showed only two Chinese purchases of American soybeans since the summit in South Korea that totaled 332,000 metric tons. That's well short of the 12 million metric tons that Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said China agreed to purchase by January and nowhere near the 25 million metric tons she said they would buy in each of the next three years.

American farmers were hopeful that their biggest customer would resume buying their crops. But CoBank's Tanner Ehmke, who is its lead economist for grains and oilseed, said there isn't much incentive for China to buy from America right now because they have plenty of soybeans on hand that they have bought from Brazil and other South American countries this year, and the remaining tariffs ensure that U.S. soybeans remain more expensive than Brazilian beans.

We are still not even close to what has been advertised from the U.S. in terms of what the agreement would have been, Ehmke said.

Beijing has yet to confirm any detailed soybean purchase agreement but only that the two sides have reached consensus on expanding trade in farm products. Ehmke said that even if China did promise to buy American soybeans it may have only agreed to buy them if the price was attractive.

Trump said his team spoke with Chinese officials today and they assured the White House they would be purchasing more soybeans, but he didn't offer any details of how much.

They're in the process of doing not only a little bit but they'll be doing a lot of soybean purchases, he told reporters.

The Chinese tariff on American beans remains high at about 24%, despite a 10-percentage-point reduction following the summit.

Soybean prices fell sharply by 23 cents to $11.24 per bushel Friday. Ehmke said thats the market being shocked by the lack of Chinese demand that was confirmed in USDA data today. Prices are still higher than they were before the agreement when they were selling for $10.60 per bushel, but the price may continue to drop unless there are significant new purchases.

Before the trade agreement, Trump had promised farmers would receive an aid package to help them survive the trade war with China. That was put on hold during the shutdown, and now it's not clear whether the administration will offer farmers aid like Trump did in his first administration.
The Federal High Court in Abuja has declared illegal the use of police for loan recovery.

Judge Mohammed Umar made the declaration in a judgement in a case of the arrest and detention of Helen Shalamba by police officers.

Ms Shalamba was arrested at the instance of her former lover Ogashuwa Okuba over a loan dispute following their break-up.

The judge ruled that it is illegal to involve the police in a non-criminal dispute and awarded N2 million damages to Ms Shalamba for a series of violations of her rights.

The judge, who cited a line of related judicial precedents to back his stance, held that in the instant case, the using of the instrumentality of the police by Mr Okuba, the 6th respondent, on a matter that is purely civil, without any criminal culpability, endangers the applicants right to, as enshrined under Section 34, 36 of the Criminal Code.

The affidavit in support illustrated that the dispute that sprang up between the applicant and the 6th respondent was purely civil, without any element of criminality, the judge ruled.

He added that the police acted outside their statutory powers and that Mr Okuba, the complainant, had no legal right to engage them to enforce a civil debt.

The applicant, Ms Shalamba, filed the suit after the police officers, acting with Access Bank Plc and Stanbic IBTC Bank, and following Mr Okubas complaint, arrested and detained her over a loan dispute between the former lovers.

The suit named the Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector General of Police, the Deputy Inspector General of Police at Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Area 10, Abuja (1st to 3rd respondents), the two banks (4th and 5th respondents) and Mr Okuba as 6th respondents.

She filed the fundamental rights enforcement suit on 12 May through her lawyer, Ibrahim Alhassan of P.H. Ogbol & Co, under sections 35, 41, 43, and 46 of the Nigerian constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act.

From bank to detention

According to Ms Shalamba, she visited Access Bank on 15 May to complain about restrictions on her accounts when police officers arrested and detained her. She said she was only granted bail the following day, 16 May.

During her spell in detention, she was shown a petition by Mr Okuba, alleging that she had defrauded him of $2,000.

She said police officers spurned the advice of a deputy commissioner of police identified as Rita, of the Post-Criminal Investigative Department (PCID) Gender Unit, that the parties be allowed to settle the dispute amicably. Against the counsel, she said, she was asked to write an undertaking to repay the money. The police refused to lift the account restrictions while Mr Okuba also refused to withdraw his petition, the applicant said.

Her lawyer would later write to both banks demanding the lifting of the post-no-debit restriction, but the banks said the restriction was based on a valid court order obtained by the police.

In her suit seeking redress, he submitted 17 prayers, including declarations that her arrest, detention, and account restrictions were unlawful, and damages for the violation of her rights.

Access Bank and Stanbic IBTC Bank filed counter-affidavits along with other processes to oppose the suit, stating that the restrictions were based on a magistrates court order in Karu, Abuja, dated 19 March. They said the order was signed by Magistrate Ahmed Ndajiwo. They attached copies of the police letter and court order as Exhibits A and B and argued that, since the order had not been vacated, they could not be held liable.

The police and Mr Okuba did not respond to the suit, nor file any process in response to the case.

String of violations

Mr Umar delivered his judgement on 6 November, details of which PREMIUM TIMES gathered on Friday.

Declaring the actions of the police and the complainants who engaged them as illegal, the judge held that, this court is of the view that the steps taken by the sixth respondent by the instrumentality of the police, which led to the placing of the applicants account under restriction, are not in accordance with the principle of the law.

The judge further noted that the applicant had proven her case and ordered Access Bank and Stanbic IBTC Bank to lift restrictions on her accounts. He awarded her N2 million in damages against the respondents for the violation of her fundamental rights.

He also ruled that the arrest, detention, and incarceration of Ms Shalamba on 15 and 16 May over a civil matter involving a loan and a failed relationship, was unlawful.

The judge agreed with the banks that any person or institution served with a valid court order is obliged to obey it until it is discharged or set aside, noting that they acted lawfully in complying with the order. But he said the use of police by the sixth respondent to compel repayment was improper and violated Ms Shalambas rights.

The court also ruled that the statutory functions of the police do not include recovery of debts from civil transactions and that the sixth respondent acted unlawfully in using the police to arrest, threaten, or harass her.

Mr Umar declared the Magistrate Court order null and void. And ordered the banks to lift the post-no-debit restrictions on her accounts.

The court also awarded N2 million in general damages in favour of the applicant. It is to be paid jointly and severally by the first, second, third, and sixth respondents, for unlawful arrest, detention, and violation of Ms Shalambas rights.

A broken relationship

In an affidavit sworn by Ms Shalamba in support of the suit, she recalled that she met Mr Okuba in 2019 when he expressed interest in her. They began courting in 2020, but the relationship ended in 2023.

She stated that she rejected Mr Okubas marriage proposal after discovering he was already married and had taken his wife abroad. When I confronted him, he promised to leave his wife for me, but I refused and ended the relationship, she wrote in her supporting affidavit.

Before the relationship, she ran a boutique business. In 2022, while relocating her shop, Mr Okuba lent her $2,000, then to complete her rent.

As of 2022, the amount was equivalent to N1.32 million at the exchange rate that year. The applicant, in her affidavit, admitted borrowing the money but denied any fraud.

After she ended the relationship, she said Mr Okuba began threatening her life.

He told me he would make me worthless, that even a vulture would be more valuable than me, she stated in her affidavit.

She added that he also threatened to make her walk naked on the streets of Abuja unless she agreed to marry him. She reported the threats to the police in 2023.

The court declared that Ms Shalamba is entitled to the enforcement of her fundamental rights to personal liberty, fair hearing, freedom of movement, and ownership of property. Her arrest and detention without a valid court order violated her rights, the court ruled.
A former governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano, has personally debunked rumours of his death.

Mr Obiano, in a Facebook post on Friday night, described the rumour as falsehood and mischief.

My beloved Ndi Anambra, friends, and well-wishers.

I woke to hear of a rumour making the rounds about my wellbeing, he began.

The former governor continued: Let me assure you personally: I am alive, hale, hearty, and in excellent health.

By the special grace of God, I am doing very well.

Sahara Reporters, earlier in a now deleted report, claimed that the former governor died of urinary cancer in a London hospital.

Mr Obiano, in the Facebook post, said it was unfortunate some individuals still find joy in spreading such falsehood.

Please disregard the rumour entirely.

We remain focused, grateful, and guided by Gods grace, he said.

The former governor expressed gratitude to his friends and loved ones who reached out to him over the false death report.

Your love and goodwill mean more than words can express, he said.

In a video clip circulating on Facebook, Mr Obiano was seen exchanging pleasantries with two men before dismissing his death rumours.

One of the men told the former governor that speculations have been rife that he died in London.

You can see I am in America. I am not in London. I didnt even go to any hospital, he responded.

Mr Obiano also said the false death rumour would further help to elongate his life.

Ex-commissioner reacts

Meanwhile, PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that a former Commissioner for Information in Anambra State, Don Adinuba, refuted the rumoured death of the former governor.

Mr Aduniba, who served as the information commissioner under Mr Obiano, said the rumour about the former governors death has no basis.

Chief Obiano lives in Texas, United States, and not London.

He is not just alive, but healthy, strong and too agile for someone who has just turned 70 years, he had said.

Obiano at a glance

Mr Obiano served as the fourth governor of the South-eastern state from 17 March 2014 to 17 March 2022 under the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance.

The former governor is currently facing fraud charges by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission at the Federal High in Abuja.

He recently clocked 70.
For the second time this week, indigenous people of the Amazon disrupted proceedings at the ongoing global climate summit (COP30) in Belem, Brazil on Friday, blocking the main entrance to the venue.

The blockade left delegates stranded outside, forcing organisers to divert foot traffic to side gates.

There is no danger. However, please use the side entrance to the COP if you have a valid badge (the same exit you have been using to leave the Blue Zone each evening), a notice from the United Nations Climate Change office to participants read.

What began this morning as a quiet assembly of indigenous people quickly grew into a full blockade.

With voices and banners stretching across the walkway, the protesters demanded stronger measures to protect the Amazon.

They urged the Brazilian government to curb logging and mining in the Amazon and halt projects they say threaten local communities.

They also called for the withdrawal of a license recently granted to state-owned oil company Petrobras for exploration around the Amazon River.

After disrupting proceedings for several hours, the protesters vacated the entrance following the intervention of the COP President Andre Correa do Lago, who spent over an hour interacting and trying to pacify them.

The entrance has now been reopened, with security trying to manage the long queue of people waiting to get in.

Fridays protest comes barely three days after Indigenous activists and environmental campaigners stormed the venue, clashing with security officials, two of whom were reportedly injured.

Authorities evacuated participants from the premises after the confrontation. Brazilian authorities said an investigation had been launched into the incident.

UN climate chief Simon Stiell described the incident as a serious breach of the established security framework and tasked the Brazilian hosts to improve security measures at the conference.

Mr Stiell also raised concerns about malfunctioning air conditioning and rainwater from heavy Amazon downpours seeping into lighting fixtures.

Later at a press briefing, COP30 President Andre Correa do Lago said the issues had been resolved, including the installation of additional air conditioners.

He, however, noted that the responsibility for safeguarding the conference premises was solely that of the UN.

This week, delegates from across the world arrived in Belem, Brazil, for the 30th session of the UN climate summit to decide on solutions to tackle the global climate crisis, present new national action plans (NDCs) and review the progress on the finance pledges made at the 29th session held in Baku, Azerbaijan in 2024.
At least three journalists in Nigeria have been detained since August on allegations of violating the countrys Cybercrime Act, despite last years reform of the law, highlighting its ongoing use to harass the media. One journalist, known under the pen name Fejiro Oliver, has been behind bars since mid-September.

Nigerian authorities appear stuck in an era where they see the Cybercrime Act as a readily available tool to harass the press, which is particularly concerning as citizens look to inform themselves ahead of national elections in early 2027, said CPJ Africa Director Angela Quintal. We call on authorities to repeal or reform sections of the Cybercrimes Act, and of the penal and criminal codes, that are regularly used to jail journalists

In the countdown to Nigerias presidential and state elections in 2027, CPJ is increasingly concerned about press freedom in the country. During the year before the 2023 elections, CPJ documented at least five cases where police detained and charged journalists for cybercrimes in connection to their work.

On September 18, police detained Oliver, an investigative journalist and publisher of privately owned Secret Reporters news outlet, at his office in the Nigerian capital, Abuja, then flew him to Asaba, the capital of southern Delta State. Olivers real name is Tega Oghenedoro.

On October 3, Oliver was charged with cyberbullying, according to court documents, which CPJ reviewed, and his lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, who spoke with CPJ.

The charge sheet alleged that Oliver made several malicious publications on his Facebook account in July and August aimed at destroying the reputation of Delta State Governor Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori by calling him defamatory names and accusing him of incompetence and rigging. In his reporting, Oliver has consistently alleged mismanagement by Oborevwori, according to CPJs review of the Secret Reporters site.

The same charge sheet accused the journalist of cyberstalking Delta States Central Senator, Ede Dafinone Omueya, with Facebook posts between May and July aimed at destroying his reputation by calling him names and accusing him of stealing.

The charge sheet said Obovwowri and Omueya made statements to the police and presented screenshots of the publication as evidence.

Oborevworis spokesperson, Festus Ahon, told CPJ by phone on October 1 that the governor had not made any complaints against Oliver.

On October 16, Oliver was granted bail on condition that he provides 15 million naira (US$10,430) bail bond with two sureties to take responsibility for his obligations to the court, according to the privately owned Daily South Nigeria news site.

Oliver remains behind bars as he was unable to meet this requirement, Effiong told CPJ.

On October 17, authorities filed two more defamation charges under the criminal code, accusing Oliver of seeking to injure the reputation of two other politicians with corruption allegations and insults on Facebook between February and May, according to copies of the charge sheets, reviewed by CPJ. On October 29, Oliver was granted bail in these cases, Effiong said.

CPJs requests for comment to Omueye and Delta State police spokesperson Edefa Bright via phone and messaging app did not receive any replies.

In August, Azuka Francisca Ogujiuba, publisher of the privately owned Media Room Hub news site, was arrested twice in Abuja for publishing a court injunction related to a disputed land sale, she told CPJ. The first time, she was held for five hours; the second time, for three days. Police searched and retained her phone for five days.

On August 11, she was released after interventions from friends, taking down the article, and writing an apology.

On September 9, police in western Ekiti State detained Sodeeq Atanda, a reporter with the privately owned Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), on allegations of cyberbullying, criminal defamation, conspiracy, blackmail, and malicious misrepresentation. Atanda was responding to a letter summoning him for questioning, following a complaint by a university vice-chancellor over FIJs allegations of sexual harassment.

FIJ founder Fisayo Soyombo told CPJ that Atanda was detained for 11 hours, then freed without charge after multiple calls for his release. Police also wrote to ask Soyombo to come in for questioning on cyberbullying charges.

Ekiti State police spokesperson Abutu Sunday told CPJ that police were constitutionally empowered to invite journalists for questioning.

FIJ has been the target of repeated harassment. Police assaulted FIJ reporter Daniel Ojukwu in August after he asked them to comment on extortion allegations and journalist Emmanuel Uti was threatened by a businessman in September after he reported allegations of fraud.

Reached by CPJ, Lagos State police spokesperson Abimbola Adebis said he would investigate the matter, then provided several other police phone numbers to call for comment but CPJs calls were not answered.

Journalists jailed and harassed

In February 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the cybercrime amendments into law, reducing the scope of Section 24, which now relates to computer communications that are pornographic, known to be false for the purpose of causing breakdown of law and order or posing a threat to life. But these reforms left journalists at risk of arrest and maintained that sections penalty of up to three years in prison.

CPJ research shows that at least 25 journalists faced prosecuted under the Cybercrimes Act before the 2024 reforms, including Oliver, who was charged in a separate case in 2017. Five journalists have been prosecuted for cybercrime since the reforms  Oliver, and four other journalists jailed for almost six months before being freed in an out of court settlement.

Five were harassed, but not formally charged, between March and May 2024:
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Saturday said its air component has killed scores of terrorists and destroyed their stronghold in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

A spokesperson for the NAF, Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement.

He said the precision air interdiction missions were executed on Friday, 14 November, as part of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.

Mr Ejodame, an air commodore, said the strikes targeted the Sauri bandit camp, a known terrorist hideout.

According to the statement, the mission was launched after comprehensive intelligence and surveillance operations confirmed significant terrorist activity at the location.

The NAF said the hideout, located on high ground, was being used by the criminals as both a defensive position and a logistics hub where they also concealed rustled livestock.

The Air Component, acting on credible intelligence, executed multiple coordinated strike passes on the identified targets which achieved direct hits that dislodged surviving terrorists attempting to flee into surrounding vegetation, Mr Ejodame stated.

He added that the fleeing terrorists were subsequently tracked and effectively engaged.

ALSO READ: NAF airstrikes kill 20 terrorists in Zamfara

The successful mission resulted in the neutralisation of numerous terrorists and the destruction of critical structures and logistics points, significantly degrading the criminals operational capability in the area, the spokesperson stressed.

Mr Ejodame said the operation underscores the commitment of the Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Aneke (an air marshal), who has pledged that the NAF will find them, hunt them down, and protect our people.

He reiterated that the operation demonstrates the resolve of the Joint Task Force to deny terrorists safe havens and support national efforts to restore lasting peace to the North-West region.
Despite numerous court judgments stopping the elective national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) billed for Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Saturday (today), the party has proceeded with the exercise.

There are three subsisting judgements on the two-day convention.

On 31 October, James Omotosho, a judge of the Federal High Court, Abuja, halted the convention, referencing the absence of valid congresses. He ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) not to monitor or supervise the exercise.

The judgement came a few weeks after he refused an interim injunction sought by some members of the party loyal to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

However, on 4 November A. L. Akintola, a judge of the Oyo State High Court, ordered the PDP to proceed with the convention and ordered INEC to monitor it.

Meanwhile, at that point, the dispute shifted to questions of judicial authority regarding which court had the power to determine the matter, and whether jurisdictional differences between Abuja and Ibadan affected the validity of their competing orders.

Even so, barely a week after the last judgement, Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja, on 11 November, delivering a judgement in a suit brought by a former Jigawa governor, Sule Lamido, again stopped the convention and directed INEC not to recognise it.

The governor filed the suit because he was not allowed to buy the nomination form to run for the office of the partys national chairman.

Some northern leaders of the PDP had, about a week earlier, picked a former Special Duties Minister, Kabiru Turaki, as the consensus candidate of the party to be presented at the national convention. Mr Lamido disagreed with them, insisting he would contest for the partys topmost seat.

On Friday, 14 November, just a few hours before the scheduled convention, Mr Lifu issued a final order halting the exercise until Mr Lamido was accommodated.

Despite the flurry of judgements, the party led by Umar Damagum, its national chairman, insisted it would go ahead with the convention.

Rising from a stakeholders meeting earlier in Abuja, the Chairman of the National Convention Committee (NCOC), Governor Umar Fintiri of Adamawa State, told journalists the party would hold the convention.

We have just come out of our critical stakeholders meeting, where a lot of elaborate decisions were taken. I want to tell you here that we are going to Ibadan for our convention and the convention is sacrosanct, Mr Fintiri said.

At the time of this report, preparations for the convention were in top gear as delegates from the 36 states and FCT had started to arrive in the Oyo Statecapital.

New leaders are expected to emerge from the convention, replacing the current NWC led by Mr Damagum. If eventually held, the exercise will potentially set the tone for the selection of the partys 2027 presidential candidate.

The Genesis

The decision to hold the convention on 15 and 16 November was first adopted at the 101st NEC meeting on 24 July and reaffirmed at the 102nd NEC meeting on 25 August in Abuja, where Mr Damagum was confirmed as substantive national chairman.

At that meeting, the NEC resolved to zone the partys 2027 presidential ticket to the South and retain the chairmanship position in the North.

Mr Wike, who had led a group of the PDP governors, known as G-5, welcomed the zoning decision, noting that it aligned with what he and the governors demanded during the 2023 elections, a dispute that contributed to the defeat of its standard bearer, Atiku Abubakar.

But tensions soon resurfaced, with some party officials insisting that state congresses must be conducted before any convention, in line with the PDP Constitution.

Three Wikes allies, Austine Nwachukwu, Imo State PDP chairman; Amah Nnanna, Abia PDP chairman, and Turnah George, secretary of the PDP South-South zone, championed this position. They went to court seeking an order to stop the convention and restrain INEC from monitoring any PDP meeting not backed by valid congresses. The suit gave rise to the 31 October judgement by Mr Omotosho.

What should have been a routine gathering to elect new officers turned into a struggle for power, legality, and legitimacy, with the PDPs future hanging in the balance.

Birth of a faction

The Wike-backed faction, led by embattled National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, appointed Mohammed Abdulrahman as its acting national chairman. Mr Mohammed is the partys national vice chairman, North-central.

The other faction recognises Mr Damagum as substantive chair.

The rift originated from disagreements over preparations for the convention. Mr Wikes loyalists argue that the party violated its constitution by failing to conduct valid congresses.

The NWC responded by suspending Mr Anyanwu, National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), Deputy Legal Adviser Okechukwu Osuoha, and National Organising Secretary Umaru Bature.

Although their specific offences were not stated, the suspensions are widely believed to relate to alleged anti-party activities.

In retaliation, the Wike-Anyanwu group announced the suspension of Mr Damagum and five others. They referenced a Supreme Court judgement granting political parties authority to resolve internal disputes without court interference.

Both camps published conflicting newspaper adverts, one announcing the suspension of the convention based on court orders, the other insisting it will proceed.

Mr Wike, though a member of the PDP, serves as a minister in President Bola Tinubus administration of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). His continued influence in the PDP, despite his position in a rival party, has been a major source of resentment, with critics accusing him of anti-party activities.His loyalists have relied on political manoeuvres and court injunctions to stall the convention. They have also considered holding a parallel National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting to legitimise decisions favourable to their camp.

Who should convene a convention?

Section 29(2)(a) of the PDP constitution empowers the NEC to convene the national convention and appoint a Convention Organising Committee responsible for circulating information and reflecting members concerns. The constitution further mandates adequate notice to members and the election of delegates from ward to state levels.

Section 49(1) provides that conventions and congresses at all levels shall elect party officers.Section 50(1) gives the NEC final authority to resolve disputes relating to the choice of candidates, implying that disagreements over convention arrangements must first be resolved internally before recourse to the courts.

Mr Omotosho, in his initial ruling on the interim injunction sought by Mr Wikes allies, also emphasised the partys obligation to explore internal mechanisms before litigation.While the Wike factions concerns about invalid congresses have constitutional merit, the decision to bypass internal mechanisms and seek judicial intervention has further deepened the crisis.

The power players

Mr Wike remains a powerful force within the PDP despite serving in an APC-led administration. He accuses the Damagum-led NWC of violating party principles and preparing an illegitimate convention. For him, the struggle is about controlling the partys structure ahead of 2027.

On the flip side is Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, a leading figure in the pro-convention camp. Hosting the convention in Ibadan, he has publicly urged the PDP to move forward and avoid being held hostage by vested interests. State party chairmen recently met with him and passed a vote of confidence in the Damagum-led NWC.

Mr Makindes role is crucial. He represents a coalition of governors and party structures seeking to stabilise the PDP ahead of 2027. He is also believed to be quietly nursing presidential ambitions.

Possible scenarios ahead

Reconciliation and caretaker arrangement: Party elders and the BoT may push both factions to suspend the convention and install a neutral caretaker committee. A former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has already proposed this, noting that the conflicting court orders pose a threat to the credibility of any convention outcome.

While playing host to the members of the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT) Reconciliation Committee, Mr Saraki, who heads the reconciliation committee of the PDP, said he made the suggestion because of the various court judgements on the convention.

As it stands, the fact is that there are conflicting court orders in relation to the validity of the scheduled convention. As a result, there is no assurance as to whether the conduct and outcome of the convention will stand, he said.

If the PDP goes with the option of appointing an interim caretaker committee executive, it would not be the first time. In 2016, the PDP replaced Ali-Modu Sheriff with Ahmed Makarfi, a former Kaduna governor, as interim chairman amid similar chaos, after rival factions held parallel conventions in Port Harcourt and Abuja.

However, analysts have not only foreseen further disagreement over the membership of the committee but also predict it would strengthen Mr Wikes loyalists to further undermine and destablise the party to the benefit of the APC in the 2027 polls. The minister has since pledged support for President Bola Tinubu, who has been endorsed by the APC to fly its flag in 2027.

Proceeding with the controversial convention

The Damagum-led faction may proceed with the Ibadan convention despite court injunctions. But such a move risks future nullification if courts rule against it, potentially invalidating the elected executives and presidential candidate, deepening the partys crisis.

Whats at stake

For the PDP, the stakes could not be higher. Once Nigerias dominant ruling party between 1999 and 2015, it is now struggling for survival and relevance. It now risks further fragmentation at a time when it needs unity to challenge the APC in 2027.

The crisis has already triggered defections, and more could follow, particularly among first-term governors and lawmakers reluctant to remain in a destabilised party.

Some influential opposition voices like former Sokoto Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa, and Abdul Ningi of Bauchi may even consider alternative platforms such as the ADC if the PDP fails to manage its crisis.

If the convention does not hold and the party cannot reconcile before December, when the tenure of the current NWC expires, the PDP may enter the 2027 election cycle deeply fractured.

Analysts maintained that only consensus, adherence to the partys constitution, and internal discipline can save the PDP from implosion. Without this, the party risks prolonged litigation, parallel structures, mass defections, and a diminished role as a national opposition force.
The Nigerian Army has confirmed that four security personneltwo soldiers and two members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF)were killed in an ambush by terrorists around Wajiroko in Azir Multe, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State.

In a social media statement issued on Saturday, army spokesperson Appolonia Anele, a lieutenant colonel, said the troops of the 25 Task Force Brigade, led by the brigade commander, M Uba, came under sudden and heavy insurgents fire while returning from a routine patrol around the fringes of the Sambisa Forest.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported the attack on the troops, citing a HumAngle report which said soldiers and CJTF operatives were killed by fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), while the brigade commander was reportedly kidnapped.

According to the army statement, the troops courageously fought through the insurgents ambush with superior fire power, forcing the attackers to withdraw in disarray.

The army added that the terrorists abandoned their mission as a result of the troops response.

While confirming the loss of two soldiers and two CJTF members who paid the supreme price, the army commiserated with the families and associates of the deceased and praised their heroic sacrifice to the nation.

The army also said the brigade commander was not abducted during the attack and that no general was kidnapped by the terrorists.

According to the statement, the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, a lieutenant general, saluted the uncommon bravery, resilience and sacrifice of the troops, noting that their commitment in one of the countrys most dangerous conflict theatres underscores the daily sacrifices made to keep Nigeria safe.

Brigade commander went missing for hours

In a subsequent report before the military statement, HumAngle reported that the brigade commander went missing for hours before returning to base on foot in what is being described as an escape from the attackers.

The newspaper also reported that two soldiers and two CJTF members were killed during a gunfight between the troops and the ISWAP terrorists.

The troops convoy consisting of two Hilux vehicles, two armoured personnel carriers and several motorcycle was attacked along Biu road after it departed the garrison town around 2 p.m.

ISWAP is one of the terror groups operating in Nigeria where terrorists have killed tens of thousands of people since 2009.
South Africa has launched an investigation into how a chartered plane carrying more than 150 Palestinians from war-torn Gaza landed in Johannesburg without proper travel documents or prior coordination, President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Friday.

The Associated Press reported that the aircraft arrived at O.R. Tambo International Airport on Thursday morning, but the passengers were held on board for nearly 12 hours.

South Africas border authorities said the Palestinians could not explain where they intended to stay, and did not have the exit stamps or slips that are usually issued by Israeli officials to people leaving Gaza.

Rights groups sharply criticised the government for keeping the 153 passengers, including families, children, and a woman said to be nine months pregnant, in difficult conditions on a sweltering plane without food or water.

Mr Ramaphosa said the circumstances surrounding the groups travel, which included a stopover in Nairobi, were unclear.

These are people from Gaza who somehow mysteriously were put on a plane that passed by Nairobi and came here, he said.

Most of the passengers were later allowed into the country after intervention from the Ministry of Home Affairs and assistance from the local charity, Gift of the Givers.

The government said 23 of the passengers later travelled onward to other countries, while 130 remained in South Africa.

Even though they do not have the necessary documents and papers, these are people from a strife-torn, war-torn country, and out of compassion, out of empathy, we must receive them, Mr Ramaphosa said.

South Africas strong support for the Palestinian cause has been a defining feature of its foreign policy throughout the Gaza war. The government has accused Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice, a charge Israel rejects while calling South Africa the legal arm of Hamas.

Large pro-Palestinian marches have been held around South Africa since the conflict began.

According to Gazas Health Ministry, more than 69,000 Palestinians have been killed in the two-year conflict, more than half of them women and children. A fragile ceasefire is currently in place.

The Palestinian embassy in South Africa said the flight was arranged by an unregistered and misleading organisation that exploited desperate families, collected money from them and facilitated their travel irregularly and irresponsibly before abandoning responsibility once problems arose.

An Israeli military official, speaking anonymously to AP, said an organisation known as Al-Majd arranged the trip, coordinating buses that moved the group from Gaza to the Kerem Shalom crossing and then to Ramon Airport in Israel before they were flown out.

South African officials said they did not know who chartered the flight. Shadowy details surrounding the operation have raised concerns among rights groups that the movement is part of efforts to push Palestinians out of Gaza, the AP reported.

COGAT, the Israeli authority that manages Gaza crossings, said the passengers left Gaza after it received approval from a third country to receive them, without naming the country.

Gift of the Givers founder Imtiaz Sooliman said this was the second unexplained flight to land in South Africa with Palestinians from Gaza, following another plane that arrived on 28 October carrying more than 170 people.

Mr Ramaphosa said the authorities would conduct a proper evaluation of the incident and inform the public once more details emerge.
The United Nations Climate Change Executive Secretary, Simon Stiell, has urged world leaders to drastically scale up climate finance, warning that global climate action will stall without a major increase in funding for developing nations.

Mr Stiell made the call on Saturday while addressing the third High-Level Ministerial Dialogue on climate finance at the 30th UN climate change conference (COP30) in Belem, Brazil.

Describing climate finance as the lifeblood of climate action, he said it is the engine that turns plans into progress, and ambition into implementation.

He noted that the dialogue is not a routine meeting but one aimed at rebuilding trust by providing clarity and predictability on the resources vulnerable countries can depend on to deliver their national climate and adaptation plans.

Trust, he warned, remains dangerously fragile and without it, implementation slows, ambition falters, and progress becomes much harder.

Although global cooperation has improved since the Paris Agreementwith rising public and private climate finance and more investments in clean energy, resilience and just transitionsMr Stiell said the world is still not far enough down that road. Funding, he noted, remains insufficient, unpredictable and unevenly distributed.

COP30

Since 6 November, delegates from more than 180 countries have gathered in Belem for COP30 to negotiate priority actions to tackle climate change.

The COP is the supreme decision-making body of the UNFCCC and is mandated to review the implementation of the Convention and take decisions necessary to strengthen global climate action.

This years talks, billed for 1021 November, focus on efforts to keep global temperature rise within 1.5C, the submission of new national commitments (NDCs), and implementation of finance pledges made at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Organisers say the COP30 Action Agenda is guided by the Global Stocktake and centres on six thematic areas: energy, industry and transport; forests, oceans and biodiversity; agriculture and food systems; resilient cities, infrastructure and water; human and social development; and enabling conditions of finance, technology and capacity.

At the opening of the summit on 6 November, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said COP30 must ignite a decade of acceleration and delivery.

The 1.5C limit is a red line for humanity. It must be kept within reach, he said, urging countries to scale solutions that transform economies and protect vulnerable populations.

Mr Guterres warned that the widening adaptation finance gap continues to expose the worlds poorest to rising seas, deadly storms and extreme heat.

Nigerias Agenda for COP30

Ahead of COP30, President Bola Tinubu approved Nigerias national carbon market framework, the operationalisation of the climate change fund and the reinstatement of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) in the federal budget.

The approvals followed a presentation by the NCCC Director-General, Omotenioye Majekodunmi, during the councils second meeting in Abuja.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing the president at the meeting, said Nigeria intends to use COP30 to harness all opportunities for financing climate-resilient projects and related interventions, particularly from the global carbon market.

He said addressing climate change is both an environmental necessity and an opportunity to unlock new investments, jobs and innovations across key sectors.

President Tinubu reaffirmed his administrations commitment to mainstreaming climate action into national development and positioning Nigeria as a destination for green investment.

Ms Majekodunmi said Nigeria is now poised to tap new rounds of multilateral climate finance. She highlighted key recommendations including the adoption of a national carbon market framework capable of unlocking up to $3 billion annually, operationalisation of the climate change fund, and reinstatement of the NCCC budget line to ensure stable financing.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, endorsed the proposals, pledging his ministrys support.

Finance gaps

During Saturdays dialogue, Mr Stiell underscored widening adaptation finance gaps, escalating climate impacts and rising debt burdens that continue to hinder vulnerable nations from accessing even existing commitments.

Developed countries were expected to double adaptation finance by 2024, following pledges made in Baku. COP29 also produced a landmark deal requiring wealthy nations to mobilise $300 billion annually for developing countries by 2035 and a total of $1.3 trillion annually for climate finance.

Despite this, many nations and organisations criticised the pledges as insufficient for their adaptation and mitigation needs. COP29 also saw agreement on operationalising Loss and Damage Fund, and finalising standards for creating carbon credits under Article 6.4 of the Paris Agreement.

Mr Stiell said meeting global finance targets requires countries to triple outflows from UNFCCC climate funds by 2030, including the Adaptation Fund, Least Developed Countries Fund and Special Climate Fund.

These are not abstract numbers, he said. They are lifelines.

He stressed that the availability of finance determines whether small island states can protect their coastlines, whether least developed countries can climate-proof agriculture, and whether emerging economies can shift away from fossil fuels without worsening inequality.

He urged countries to send a clear signal that scaling up climate finance must go hand-in-hand with improving accessibility, predictability and alignment with national priorities.

This, he said, requires expanding public finance through grants, concessional lending and non-debt instruments; simplifying access to reduce transaction costs; and tackling systemic barriers such as heavy debt, high capital costs and limited fiscal space.

He also called for wider use of equity, guarantees, blended finance and debt-for-climate swaps to attract large-scale private investment in low-emission, climate-resilient growth.

Climate finance is not charity  its smart economics, he said, describing climate action as the growth story of the 21st century.

Mr Stiell urged negotiators to ensure the next phase of Article 9.5 work produces clear and actionable outcomes that give developing nations forward visibility and demonstrate real progress on finance delivery. Strong reporting, he said, builds credibilityand credibility builds trust.

As the world watches COP30 for signs that global cooperation can deliver, he said nothing will speak louder than real finance, flowing fast and fair.

When finance flows, ambition grows, he said. And when ambition grows, implementation follows  creating jobs, easing living costs, protecting communities and securing a more resilient planet for all.

He called on countries to recommit to the spirit of Paris: predictability, transparency and shared purpose. Only then, he said, can the full benefits of climate action be unlocked for everyone, everywhere.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has ratified Umar Damagun as its substantive national chairman at its 2025 elective national convention in Ibadan on Saturday.

Tony Aziegbemi, chairman, Edo Chapter of the PDP and leader of the Forum of State Chairmen, moved the motion for Mr Damaguns ratification as PDP chairman on behalf of other delegates.

The motion was seconded by Edward Marshal, another prominent party chieftain, in adherence to Section 32 of the PDP Constitution (as amended).

I hereby move the motion for the ratification of Amb. Umar Damagum as the substantive national chairman of our great party.

This action is in accordance with Section 32 of the PDP Constitution (as amended), he said.

The announcement drew widespread applause, signalling broad support for the decision.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ratification ends prolonged speculations over the partys national leadership, which had been in flux amid earlier factional disputes.

The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the PDP had at its 102 meeting on 25 August, affirmed Mr Damagum as the national chairman of the party.

Meanwhile, at the Ibadan convention, the party also announced the dissolution of its structure at the ward, local government, and state levels in five states.

The five states are: Imo, Akwa Ibom, Enugu, Abia, and Rivers States.

NAN reports that 2,745 accredited delegates are currently casting their votes for other positions of the party, having excluded delegates from the five states.

(NAN)
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Dive Brief:

Vicarious Surgical said Wednesday that it will outsource some components of its robots development to lower spending as it prepares the system for a clinical trial and regulatory submission.

The company has already reorganized some internal teams and reduced headcount in some areas as part of a restructuring, new CEO Stephen From said on an earnings call.

Vicarious expects to finalize the robots design toward the end of 2026, From told investors. Our main priority remains achieving design freeze of the production-equivalent system, the version that includes all features and specifications required for commercialization, From said.

Dive Insight:

Vicarious was started in 2014 to improve upon limitations its founders saw in robotic platforms at the time. The company attracted financial backing from Bill Gates and others before going public in 2021 through a merger with a special purpose acquisition company that raised $220 million.

However, the company has faced a series of delays in its planned submissions to the Food and Drug Administration. Soon after its new CEO came on board in August, Vicarious said it was abandoning plans to begin a clinical trial by the end of this year and would focus on completing the design for the commercial version of the system.

From said the company received feedback from investors during a fundraising process in October that led to the decision to pursue outsourcing. Vicarious has hired a consulting firm to identify potential partners and expects to outsource elements such as capital equipment and certain non-core software functions.

The company will continue to invest in the areas that differentiate its technology, such as the platforms miniaturized robotic arms and immersive visualization system, according to From.

The goal is to enter 2026 with a disciplined plan that meaningfully reduces burn while maintaining momentum toward design freeze, the CEO said. Meanwhile, From said the company strengthened its balance sheet in October with about $5.9 million in gross proceeds from a registered direct offering.

Vicarious reported a third-quarter net loss of $11.1 million, compared with a net loss of $17.1 million a year ago. The company expects a cash burn of about $50 million in 2025.

In a message on the companys website Thursday, From also said Vicarious would work to make the development of its platform more transparent by providing regular progress updates.
In the great city of Kaduna, Northern Nigerias political capital, there is a man who, though trained as a doctor, is better known as a Sheikh. He hails from a long line of Islamic scholars, and his father was even a Grand Khadi. He preaches from the pulpit, prays with the pious, and to the faithful, he appears a voice of reason. He wears rich, flowing robes whiter than snow. Yet, when the echoes of terror rose from the forests, it was his own voice that answered, not in condemnation, but in defense. Beneath the measured cadence of his sermons lies a perilous affection for men whose hands drip with rivers of cold blood.

He claims to follow the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him), but his loyalty is not to the divine; it is to bloodlines and performative religiousity. The bandits who have turned Nigerias northwest into a theatre of grief share his tongue, his tribe, his religion and his sympathies. Where others see criminals, he sees kinsmen.

When soldiers moved against the terrorists, the Sheikh denounced them as heretics. Among the military, he assured the bandits, there are Christians and Muslims. It is the Christians who are killing you, only to sow discord. The forest seemed to applaud. To the killers, he was no critic; he was a cleric who soothed conscience with the balm of tribal loyalty.

On television, he warned journalists to cease labeling the bandits as criminals, accusing the press itself of criminality merely for reporting the truth. He scolded reporters for naming terrorists, as if the articulation of truth were a graver sin than the slaughter itself.

When three hundred schoolgirls were abducted from their dormitories in Jangebe, Zamfara State, the nation wept. But the Sheikh reached for his phone to defend the abductors. They are not the ones who kidnapped the girls, he insisted. It is a splinter group. It was a line better suited to a gang spokesman than a cleric.

A journalist who once followed the bandits deep into the forests, recounted an encounter with their leader, Kachalla Halilu, who paused and said, Make sure you get it right. I am shugaban yan taaddan Arewa. His lieutenant translated: He is the leader of all terrorists. Yet, the Sheikh, instead of condemning them, became their chief apologist, polishing their image with words steeped in deception.

The irony is stark. The same Sheikh who found compassion for those who butchered children justified the armys slaughter of Shiites during the Quds Day procession in 2014, dismissing their deaths as mere inconvenience. For him, cruelty was negotiable: when it bore the face of his tribe, it became grievance; when it did not, it became rebellion. He once claimed his mission was peacebuilding. Yet his peace is a fragile truce built on selective morality and silence.

His words not only carry the stench of ethnic favoritism and political duplicity.

they actively emboldens terror. By defending bandits, minimizing their crimes, and portraying them as misunderstood, he sends a clear message: murder can be excused, tribal loyalty trumps justice, and terror carries no real consequence. For kidnappers, killers, and arsonists, such words are not abstract sermons; they are validation, turning fear into pride and brutality into a perceived moral enterprise.

Worse, the governments response seems shaped by his counsel. Rather than holding him accountable, authorities appear to heed his advice, opting to negotiate or appease the criminals he champions. Each concession, each compromise, reinforces the idea that violence pays and accountability is optional. In effect, terror is rewarded rather than cursed.

In this way, the Sheikh does not just speak for terror; he creates the conditions for its survival, while the state, whether through fear or complicity, allows it to flourish.

The tragedy is not merely that he chose the wrong side; it is that he chose it while holding the Quran, even as it instructs:

O you who believe, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.

 Surah An-Nisa (4:135)

Yet he placed tribe and religion above truth, loyalty above Allah. He ignored another command:

Do not mix truth with falsehood, or conceal the truth while you know it.

 Surah Al-Baqarah (2:42)

Conceal he did, meticulously and deliberately, twisting sacred language into a tool of justification.

History will not remember him as a reformer or a scholar, but as the man who stood between victims and their killers, measured the two, and chose to sympathise with the killers. Yet the deeper tragedy is not the Sheikh himself, but the silence that protects him. Why have Nigerian authorities never subjected him to questioning? Why has no genuine effort been made to uncover the true nature of his ties to these bandits?

Politicians eagerly court his shenanigans, and the Nigerian government even funded his pilgrimage through the Hajj Commission. Yet Saudi authorities, alarmed by his notorious conduct, barred him from Medina, a rare and unmistakable condemnation from Islams holiest city. There, in the shadow of divine sanctity, a man who invokes Gods name while defending terror found no sanctuary.

Terror will never be vanquished while those who bless it remain untouched. As long as sympathizers and collaborators roam freely and are cuddled by those that control the levers of power, the flames will persist in the land, fueled by a nation too timid to name its friends of darkness.

For evil triumphs not merely through violence, but through the preachers who defend it and a governments that looks the other way.

Osmund Agbo is a medical doctor and author. His works include Black Grit, White Knuckles: The Philosophy of Black Renaissance and a fiction work titled The Velvet Court: Courtesan Chronicles. His latest works, Pray, Let the Shaman Die and Maam, I Do Not Come to You for Love, have just been released. He can be reached through: [email protected]
This rot in our correctional centres should be urgently addressed by the Minister of Interior and all the officials involved should be seriously reprimanded. The relevant committees in the National Assembly should also take up this matter. Correctional centres are supposed to reform convicts so that they can be reabsorbed into the society, but what we have now are correctional centres that encourage convicts to become more hardened and sophisticated in their criminal activities

When you think you have seen it all in our country Nigeria, you will suddenly realise you have not seen anything. Many mind boggling security issues are happening in Nigeria and it is disheartening. Apart from the issue of kidnapping, banditry, insurgency, farmers/ herders clash, there is a new wave of subtle insecurity directed against individuals especially those considered as politically exposed persons, businessmen and very important personalities (VIP). The new method is that a strange mobile number will call a politically exposed person in the middle of night to threaten him or her that he is an assassin sent to kill and wipe out his or her family, except such a VIP is ready to pay to avert such.

What prompted this article was my personal experience and those of my colleagues who received the same threatening phone call between 2 a.m. and 3 a.m. on Tuesday, 11 November. On Monday night, I took some drugs because of neck pain, which made me sleep so soundly that I didnt hear my phone ring around 2.17 a.m the following morning. When I finally woke up around 6.30 a.m., I was curious to know who called me at that hour of the night. The number, 09129899707, was not on my contact list, so I returned the call. A man with a gruffy voice picked it and when I asked who was speaking, instead of answering, he asked me if he was speaking with Hon. Hakeem Jamiu, and when I said in the affirmative, he introduced himself as General West and that I should not bother about where he is calling from. He went further in Yoruba, won ran wa si e ni. Won ti sanwo emi e. Won ni ka wa pa e ati iyawo ati omo. So ti oo ba fe ka pa e, wa sanwo ni o. The meaning of this is that he is an assassin who some unknown people have sent to kill me, my wife and children, and he and his gang would carry this out unless I am ready to pay them. I simply cut him off the phone and blocked his number immediately, although I was a bit worried. My wife, who was beside me, was on another call, so she did not follow the conversation well, but only heard when I asked him to get off my phone, which made her ask who that was. I simply told her it was some scammer.

I was part of a joint Security and Local Government Committee meeting at the House of Assembly by 10.00 a.m. on the same Tuesday to review the security situation in Ekiti State, which still remains the safest state in the country, despite pockets of kidnappings recently. Listening to briefings from our security agents gave me hope that they are capable of combating insecurity in the state if the right weapons and other logistics are made available to them. They all agreed that Governor Oyebanji is doing well in this area but they needed more support because the bandits are not relenting and are getting more emboldened by the day.

The number, 09129899707, was not on my contact list, so I returned the call. A man with a gruffy voice picked it and when I asked who was speaking, instead of answering, he asked me if he was speaking with Hon. Hakeem Jamiu, and when I said in the affirmative, he introduced himself as General West and that I should not bother about where he is calling from. He went further in Yoruba, won ran wa si e ni. Won ti sanwo emi e. Won ni ka wa pa e ati iyawo ati omo. So ti oo ba fe ka pa e, wa sanwo ni o.

It was at the Committee meeting that I realised that the same number that called me at 2.17 a.m. had also called about 10 of my colleagues about the same time, with the same life-threatening message of wiping them and their family out, except they pay some for of ransom. In fact, one of my colleagues told the heads of the security agencies present that when he received the call, the same General West told him that his men had already surrounded his building, and were waiting to force their way in. My colleague told General West that he would come and open the door and gate, that he should not bother forcing his way in, and that he was battle ready for them. When my colleague opened his door and came out into his compound, he didnt see anybody and General West had dropped the call! Other colleagues relayed the same experience about the phone call from General West and the threat to their lives, except they pay some ransom. The caller told another colleague that he has been paid to kidnap all members of his family, except he is prepared to pay five million naira to stop this. When my colleague told him he had no such money, he sent him a WhatsApp video of kidnapped victims who were killed, butchered and dismembered. He asked my friend if he wanted the same fate to befall his family. He is still demanding the ransom as I write. I also learnt from the meeting that an old retiree sold her property to pay these criminals, so that they would spare the life of her only son.

The security chiefs present at the meeting, from the police, State Security Service (SSS), Amotekun corps, Vigilante and Peace Corps, took the number and tracked it. Lo and behold, it was traced to an inmate at Kirikiri Maximum Correctional Centre. This raises the question about the paradox of the name, Correctional Centre. How can a supposedly correctional centre be a beehive of a new wave of criminal activities from the same convicts who are supposed to be undergoing reformation? Is the use of telephone allowed in correctional centres? To the best of my knowledge, the Nigerian Correctional Service Act 2019 prohibits the use of mobile phones by inmates or has this changed? So, who provides inmates with telephones which they now use to threaten unsuspecting politically exposed people and other important personalities in our society? Is General West and his gang acting alone without the active connivance of Kirikiri Correctional Centre officials? When the unsuspecting victims whose families they have threatened to wipe out or kidnap pay these ransom sums, into which account do the victims pay? Who gave General West, an inmate in Kirikiri Correctional Centre, my phone number and those of my colleagues in the Ekiti State House of Assembly? Who are his collaborators in Ekiti State? This is not to say that such life-threatening calls only emanates from correctional centres, but for now it was traceable to the Kirikiri Correctional Centre and there have been other similar life-threatening calls traceable to other correctional centres across the country.

One of the security chiefs present related the scary experience of a very dangerous criminal he arrested and prosecuted and who was sent to prison custody. The security chief was more than embarrassed when the criminal sent a video message of the sumptuous meal he was enjoying in prison and threatened the security chief that he would soon be released and would come after him and his family. Now the question is: Who gave such a dangerous criminal the phone and freedom to be threatening the law officer who prosecuted him?

So many revelations came up at the meeting with the security agents, which are however not entirely new because I have also been aware through research, about the unbelievable tales from Nigeria correctional centres nationwide. There are so many General Wests in our correctional centres across the country and they operate with the active connivance of prison officials. There are so many stories of the exchange of prisoners, whereby a rich convict can pay for somebody to serve his prison term for him and such convict would have also paid the prison officials heavily. I didnt believe all these stories before, but with the call of General West, an inmate of Kirikiri Correctional Centre, threatening us in Ekiti, nothing is impossible in our correctional centres. One of the security chiefs present related the scary experience of a very dangerous criminal he arrested and prosecuted and who was sent to prison custody. The security chief was more than embarrassed when the criminal sent a video message of the sumptuous meal he was enjoying in prison and threatened the security chief that he would soon be released and would come after him and his family. Now the question is: Who gave such a dangerous criminal the phone and freedom to be threatening the law officer who prosecuted him? Will that not dampen the morale of other courageous officers? It is now glaring that there are VIP criminals who are above the law in our correctional centres, and a searchlight should be beamed on this centres as another quiet unnoticeable source of insecurity? Our country is actually under siege and this is the kind of reports that give President Trump the impetus to threaten us with military invasion.

This rot in our correctional centres should be urgently addressed by the Minister of Interior and all the officials involved should be seriously reprimanded. The relevant committees in the National Assembly should also take up this matter. Correctional centres are supposed to reform convicts so that they can be reabsorbed into the society, but what we have now are correctional centres that encourage convicts to become more hardened and sophisticated in their criminal activities and this is definitely with the covert support of some unscrupulous prison officials. Imagine what would happen to an hypertensive man who received a call at 2.00 a.m. that assassins have surrounded his house to wipe off his entire family! What a country!

Hakeem Jamiu, the former Deputy Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly, writes from Ado Ekiti.
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has assured residents that his administration will soon complete the 20-kilometre AkuteIjoko Road in Ifo Local Government Area. The governor gave the assurance while inspecting ongoing work on the first phase of the 9.7-kilometre stretch of the road, shortly after commissioning the AkuteAjuwonAlagbole Road, also in Ifo Local Government.

Governor Abiodun noted that the AkuteIjoko project is being executed in phases as part of a well-structured implementation plan designed by his administration. He added that the government had a clear vision for the road and was committed to bringing it to fruition. This road is almost 20 kilometres long  20 kilometres of dual carriageway, which means 40 kilometres with drainages. By His grace, we will finish this road, he said.

The governor recalled that the road had been abandoned for years, stressing that its condition was further worsened by poor and uncoordinated attempts at intervention by a previous administration. What you see here was an abandoned road. The road would probably have been better left the way it was. An administration did whatever and made it much worse than it ever was.

You know it is impossible for government to function without coordination. You must have a plan and you must have priorities, he said. Mr Abiodun added that the implementation plan for the project aligns with the yearnings of the people, noting that his administration places a premium on public consultation. According to him, nothing is more heart-warming than seeing the joy and relief on the faces of residents during his inspection.

This road is a very important connector between Ogun West and Ogun Central, linking Sango-Ota  a neighbouring local government to Lagos  and Ifo II through Ifo I, he explained. He further disclosed that the project has been divided into two phases, with the first phase extending slightly beyond the Agbado Station area, up to the SangoLanbeIjoko Road corridor.
Nigeria must design a tax system that is broad-based, technology-enabled and trusted by citizens as the countrys revenue challenge is not merely about the numbers but structure, mindset and execution, Zacch Adedeji, chairperson of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), has said.

Mr Adedeji, who spoke while delivering the maiden edition of Distinguished Lecture Series of the University of Ilesa, Osun State, on Friday, explained that revenue diversification is no longer a policy preference but a national imperative.

Speaking on the topic Economic Resilience in an Era of Dwindling Revenue, Mr Adedeji said it was important to restructure the productive base of the economy from crude oil and embrace a system with multiple engines of growth in agro-processing, digital economy, creative industry and solid minerals, among others.

A statement by Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser (Media) to the FIRS chairman as saying We have made some gains, but resilience demands more than marginal improvements. It requires structural change, bold reforms and unwavering commitment to fiscal sustainability.

The first pillar is the need to generate more revenue from within fairly, efficiently, and sustainably. Nigeria cannot continue to depend on volatile oil revenues or foreign loans to fund development.

We must build a tax system that reflects the true size and structure of our economy. This requires moving beyond a narrow band of large, formal companies and capturing economic activities in the informal sector, the digital economy, and high-net-worth individuals who remain outside the tax net.

It also involves closing compliance gaps through stronger enforcement, simplified procedures, and better taxpayer education. With digital innovations like TaxPro Max, e-Tax Clearance Certificate, and tax intelligence, FIRS is already leading the way in automating compliance and making tax administration smarter and more data-driven. Domestic revenue mobilisation is not just a fiscal task, it is a nation-building strategy, Mr Adedeji said.

He noted that FIRS as the nations central tax authority was already helping Nigeria transition from vulnerability to strength.

FIRS is not just a tax collector. It is a strategic institution at the heart of Nigerias fiscal sustainability agenda, and it is undergoing one of the most profound transformations in its history.

To rebuild public trust in the tax system, we are modernising not just our systems but also our mindset and culture towards greater professionalism, integrity and service orientation.

FIRS is not waiting for resilience to be handed to it. We are building it from the ground up. Through automation, legal reforms, multi-level collaboration, and institutional renewal, we are laying the fiscal foundation for a Nigeria that can weather storms, adapt to change and grow sustainably, he added.

Speaking earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Professor Taiwo Asaolu, said the two years old institution aims to use the public lecture as a platform for discourse on pressing global and national issues, while seeking sustainable solutions to the nations economic challenges.
The Communication Office of the Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, Ned Munir Nwoko has released a statement reaffirming the authenticity of medical reports circulating in the media concerning the lawmakers estranged wife, Regina Daniels alleged indulgence in substance abuse.

The statement which was posted on Senator Nwokos X and other social media accounts on Saturday was issued by the Communication Team lead of his office. It was ostensibly to address the different interpretations being given to a disclaimer by one of the hospitals over the circulating confidential reports.

Serenity Royale Hospital Abuja which issued the disclaimer denied releasing the viral medical reports saying We remain committed to high standard medical practice with huge commitment to ensuring confidentiality.

The viral report, signed by the hospitals Managing Director and Head of Clinical Services, Adekunle Adesina, purportedly stated that Ms Regina Nwoko was diagnosed with a substance use disorder and placed on a home-based detox programme starting 24 September 2025.

The Serenity Royale Hospitals disclaimer on Friday denying culpability in the release and circulation of the medical reports was signed by Mr Adesina whose name also appeared in the viral reports. However, the hospital came short of dismissing the reports as fake or false. It only denied responsibility for releasing the reports, it said: We wish to state clearly that the publication and circulation of the said post containing classified information did not emanate from us while affirming its commitment to medical standards and confidentiality.

Senator Nwoko who has been insisting that the recent behaviour of his wife Regina was abnormal arising from her battle with severe substance abuse, has expressed his willingness to fly her abroad for therapeutic attention and rehabilitation in world class medical facilities either in Jordan or South Africa.

Full text of the statement by Ned Nwoko Office:

A medical report concerning Regina Nwoko has been circulating online. The reports are genuine. The rehabilitation centre only clarified that it did not publish or circulate the documents, which is expected because medical institutions must protect client confidentiality. They did not deny authoring the reports; their concern is the leak itself.

The public is encouraged to read the full reports, because they explain the situation clearly and directly. Both the toxicology report and the Serenity Hospital report confirm the presence of the same substances, all at levels that pose serious health risks:

 Marijuana

 Cocaine

 Morphine

 Opiates at extremely elevated levels

 Alcohol at a critically dangerous level

The Nizamiya Hospital report dated 3rd October adds an even more troubling detail. She was brought into the hospital unconscious from a drug overdose. These facts are documented, consistent, and deeply alarming.

The reports also describe the challenges the rehabilitation centre faced, including persistent interference from her siblings. They openly stated that they do not see anything wrong in giving her alcohol and weed even while she was undergoing rehabilitation, and they have continued enabling her substance use. Their actions made effective treatment impossible and remain one of the major reasons she has not been able to complete rehabilitation.

Many have questioned why the Senator is insisting on therapy. His determination comes from the clear reality that several of Reginas recent decisions are not coming from a stable and healthy frame of mind. She is vulnerable, unprotected, and exposed to individuals who exploit her for personal gain. Her online behaviour reflects her current struggles, and she tends to listen more to public voices than to medical professionals or her husband.

Past attempts to help her privately did not succeed. Given the severity of the substances detected and the documented hospital emergency where she arrived unconscious, it is no longer an issue that can be handled quietly. At this point, the question becomes: must we wait until Regina reaches a point of irreversible harm before we support her, encourage her to stop substance abuse, and help her commit to rehabilitation

Distinguished Senator is genuinely and deeply concerned. His tone, his actions, and his persistence all reflect a man who wants Regina to recover, to be safe, to be clear minded, and to be present for her two young sons. Until those boys are old enough to guide her themselves, he will continue doing everything within his responsibility to help restore her wellbeing and ensure that future choices are made with clarity.

The message remains clear.

The reports are authentic. The hospitals and rehabilitation centres did not leak them. The findings speak for themselves. Regina needs consistent treatment, support, and protection. Not denial, not interference, and not enabling. She is a mother, and she deserves the chance to regain her health and stability.

Communication Team lead.

Office of Distinguished Senator Ned Munir Nwoko
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) delegates from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have arrived at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, ready for the partys national convention.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) correspondent at the venue reports that the delegates, adorned in green-white-red fabric, the partys colours, have already taken their respective stands.

NAN reports that the convention is scheduled to run from Saturday evening through the night into Sunday.

However, as at the time of filing this report, the accreditation of delegates has yet to commence.

Meanwhile, posters and billboards were displayed at every corner of the stadium, as ambulances were stationed at strategic locations to attend to emergencies.

In terms of security, officials of the Nigeria Police Force, NSCDC, and Amotekun (Western Nigeria Security Network) stood within and outside the venue to secure lives and property.

The venue also has food vendors and traders in their numbers in readiness for brisk business.

The convention is holding despite court judgements stopping it.

A faction of the party led by Abdulrahman Mohammed had repeatedly announced in advertorials that the proposed elective convention had been cancelled.

The faction spearheaded by the partys National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, and loyal to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, said it cancelled the exercise because of the judgements.

On Tuesday, the Federal High Court, in a judgement on a suit filed by a former governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, against the PDP, stopped the convention and asked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) not to monitor, supervise or recognise the convention.

The court, presided over by Peter Lifu, gave its final order stopping the convention on Friday, a day to the event.

Earlier on 31 October, James Omotosho of the Federal High Court stopped the convention.

However, few days after the judgement, an Oyo High Court, sitting in Ibadan, in a judgement on 4 November, asked the party to proceed with convention.
NEW ORLEANS, Nov. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until January 2, 2026 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against CarMax, Inc. (NYSE: KMX), if they purchased or otherwise acquired the Company's securities between June 20, 2025 and November 5, 2025, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland.

Get Help

CarMax investors should visit us at https://www.claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-kmx-1 or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.

About the Lawsuit

CarMax and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.

On September 25, 2025, the Company announced its Second Quarter Fiscal Year 2026 financial results, disclosing among other things, that retail unit sales had decreased 5.4%, comparable store unit sales had decreased 6.3%, wholesale units had decreased 2.2%, and that net earnings per diluted share of $0.64 compared to $0.85 a year ago.

On this news, the price of CarMax's shares fell $11.5 per share, or 20.07%, to close at $45.60 per share on September 25, 2025.

The case is Cap v. CarMax, Inc., No. 25-cv-03602.

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.

SOURCE ClaimsFiler
MEMPHIS, Tenn., Nov. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The First Horizon Foundation proudly celebrates a significant achievement with ARTSmemphis, as the organization reaches its $100 million milestone in investments to the Memphis arts community since its founding.

"We are proud of our longstanding connection to ARTSmemphis, supporting local artists and organizations who enrich our community," said Bo Allen, Mid-South Regional President for First Horizon Bank. "We look forward to many more years of collaboration through our strategic partnership."

The November celebration, presented by First Horizon Foundation, brought together community members for an ARTrageous event featuring live music, interactive art, captivating performances and memorable surprisesall in honor of this major milestone.

Each year, the First Horizon Foundation partners with ARTSmemphis to provide grants that support local arts organizations, fund sponsorships and promote artistic excellence throughout the Memphis region.

About the First Horizon Foundation

First Horizon Foundation is the private charitable foundation of First Horizon Corporation. Founded in 1993, the Foundation has donated more than $150 million to meet community needs. Grants from the Foundation support the following impact areas: Arts & Culture, Education & Leadership, Environment, Financial Literacy, and Health & Human Services. More information is available at www.firsthorizonfoundation.com.

About ARTSmemphis

ARTSmemphis, a 501(c)3, is the Mid-South's primary arts funder, working behind the scenes to expand the foundation of Memphis' arts through diligent and diverse support. The granting organization has distributed $100 million since 1963 and serves as a funding partner, advocate and connector for local artists and arts organizations. For more information, visit artsmemphis.org.

SOURCE First Horizon Foundation
NEW ORLEANS, Nov. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until December 23, 2025 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against James Hardie Industries plc ("James Hardie" or the "Company") (NYSE: JHX), if they purchased or otherwise acquired the Company's shares between May 20, 2025, and August 18, 2025, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

Get Help

James Hardie investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-jhx/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.

About the Lawsuit

James Hardie and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.

On August 19, 2025, despite prior reassurances that its North America Fiber Cement segment remained strong, the Company disclosed that sales in North America Fiber Cement declined by 12% due to customer destocking first discovered "in April through May," that was expected to impact sales for at least the next two quarters.

On this news, the price of James Hardie's shares fell by over 34%, or $9.79 per share, from a closing price of $28.43 per share on August 18, 2025 to $18.64 per share on August 20, 2025.

The case is Laborers' District Council and Contractors' Pension Fund of Ohio v. James Hardie Industries plc, et al., No. 25-cv-13018.

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.

SOURCE ClaimsFiler
NEW ORLEANS, Nov. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until December 2, 2025 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Molina Healthcare, Inc. ("Molina" or the "Company") (NYSE: MOH), if they purchased or otherwise acquired the Company's securities between February 5, 2025 and July 23, 2025, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Central District of California.

Get Help

Molina Healthcare investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-moh-2/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.

About the Lawsuit

Molina Healthcare and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.

On July 23, 2025, the Company reported its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025 and cut its full-year 2025 earnings guidance, disclosing that "GAAP net income was $4.75 per diluted share for the second quarter of 2025, a decrease of 8% year over year" and it "now expects its full year 2025 adjusted earnings to be no less than $19.00 per diluted share," due to a "challenging medical cost trend environment," including "utilization of behavioral health, pharmacy, and inpatient and outpatient services."

On this news, the price of Molina's shares fell $32.03, or 16.84%, to close at $158.22 per share on July 24, 2025, on unusually heavy trading volume.

The case is Hindlemann v. Molina Healthcare, Inc., et al., No. 2:25-cv-09461.

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.

SOURCE ClaimsFiler
Valued at a market cap of $78.3 billion, Marriott International, Inc. (MAR) is a leading hospitality company that operates a broad portfolio of hotels and related lodging businesses across luxury, premium, and select-service categories. The Bethesda, Maryland-based company operates through renowned brands such as The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, JW Marriott, Westin, and Courtyard.

This hospitality company has lagged behind the broader market over the past 52 weeks. Shares of MAR are up marginally over this time frame, while the broader S&P 500 Index ($SPX) has gained 12.6%. Moreover, on a YTD basis, the stock has gained 3%, compared to SPXs 14.6% return.

More News from Barchart

Nonetheless, zooming in further, MAR has outperformed the AdvisorShares Hotel ETFs (BEDZ) 2.8% downtick over the past 52 weeks and 2.1% YTD drop.

www.barchart.com

MARs shares surged 3.2% on Nov. 4, after its stronger-than-expected Q3 earnings release. The company reported total revenue of $6.5 billion, up 3.7% year-over-year and marginally ahead of analyst estimates. Its global RevPAR rose 0.5% from the year-ago quarter, with International RevPAR increasing 2.6% and U.S. & Canada RevPAR declining 0.4% due to weaker demand in the lower chain scales. However, luxury hotels continued to outperform, driven by robust demand and strong rate performance. Additionally, on the earnings front, its adjusted EPS of $2.47 advanced 9.3% from the prior-year quarter, surpassing consensus estimates of $2.41.

For the current fiscal year, ending in December, analysts expect MARs EPS to grow 7.6% year over year to $10.04. The companys earnings surprise history is promising. It exceeded the consensus estimates in each of the last four quarters.

Among the 25 analysts covering the stock, the consensus rating is a "Moderate Buy, which is based on seven Strong Buy, two "Moderate Buy, 15 "Hold, and one Strong Sell rating.

www.barchart.com

This configuration has remained consistent over the past three months.

On Nov. 12, Richard Clarke from AllianceBernstein Holding L.P. (AB) maintained a Buy rating on MAR, with a price target of $327, indicating a 13.8% potential upside from the current levels.
"I am just overjoyed and overwhelmed with gratitude," Turner said. "This is just a perfect, right-on-time blessing for Mommy Scrubs."

The competition, hosted by the eosera Foundation, invites women founders with businesses fewer than three years old to apply. This year, three finalists were selected from more than 250 applicants nationwide. This is the first year the competition was opened to women outside the state of Texas, where eosera is based.

Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker kicked off the event, welcoming guests to the competition and citing some important statistics. She mentioned a recent Wells Fargo report which states Dallas-Fort Worth is now No. 2 in the nation for growth of women-owned businesses.

"So we are on the right track here in Fort Worth," she said.

Parker said Fort Worth is now the tenth largest city in the country, which calls for it to act like a world class city.

"You cannot be a world class city without pouring into the next generation of leaders, and it does start with the bedrock of the US economy, which is small businesses and entrepreneurs," Parker said, before encouraging everyone in the audience to cheer loudly for the finalists, as it takes "tremendous guts and bravery to build a business from scratch."

CEO of eosera, Elyse Stoltz Dickerson, knows this first-hand. She won a pitch competition a decade ago when she was starting her now multi-million-dollar ear care business. This experience inspired her to give back to other women founders by providing them with valuable seed funding through the eosera Foundation.

"Each year the pitch competition just tops the year before in energy and excitement," Stoltz Dickerson said. "I always walk away feeling so inspired by the finalists and energized by the audience who came to support them. It's truly my favorite night of the year."

Stoltz Dickerson said she feels Turner  and Mommy Scrubs  has what it takes to be a successful business.

Turner first dreamed up Mommy Scrubs after her maternity leave ended and she returned to work as an occupational therapist in 2018. She discovered that pumping breastmilk at work often meant fully undressing, her back against a cold chair. It was inconvenient and uncomfortable, but it sparked an idea  scrubs designed specifically for breastfeeding and pumping healthcare moms.

Turner got to work testing and designing new scrubs that snap down in the front for easy pumping access, while maintaining the standard function of scrubs in a healthcare setting. Her patent-pending design has been rolled out to a smaller audience, but now it's ready for the next step  paid marketing.

"We will be able to put Mommy Scrubs in front of the faces who need it, so we're really excited to start our paid marketing efforts and more people will know about Mommy Scrubs," she said.

In second place was Annika Lundstrom, CEO of ReMinded, a company that is commercializing the first clinical-grade, rapid saliva test that tracks cortisol, the body's stress hormone. Lundstrom, whose company is based in New York City, won $5,000.

"It was a much larger event than I expected," Lundstrom said. "And it's just great to see this type of traction that the [women entrepreneur] community is gaining now. I felt that this event just gave us that extra push of powering through the last months of 2025 and going into a strong 2026."

In third place, winning $2,500  was Melissa Wood, CEO of Formus, an AI tool for home design professionals that saves time and money.

Wood said it was an honor to be a part of an organization that supports women founders.

"As they say, 2% of women get venture capital funding, so opportunities like this mean the world, and I just appreciate having the stage to share my company," she said.

This year's competition was sponsored by iHeartImpact, Simmons Bank, Higginbotham, and Satori Capitol  along with many other Fort Worth businesses who pitched in for a drawing valued at over $2,000.

"We are so proud to be a part of this event supporting women's entrepreneurship, and we're looking forward to being a part of it in future years," said Brad Geminder, Senior Account Direct at iHeartMedia.

"I'm in awe of these finalists, taking their businesses from idea to execution," said Tamara Wren, iHeartMedia Account Development Manager.

Lori Baldock, Forth Worth Market President for Simmons Bank, said the bank has sponsored the competition since its first year.

"We see this not as an expense, but as an investment  an investment in the eosera Foundation and these women entrepreneurs," she said. "As a female executive myself, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing our dollars spent and invested in the growth of women-owned businesses."

For more information about the eosera Foundation Pitch Competition, contact [email protected].

SOURCE Eosera
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order yesterday removing tariffs on certain food and agricultural products, a move that will help stabilize supply chains and ease cost pressures for restaurants and consumers. National Restaurant Association President & CEO Michelle Korsmo released the following statement on what this action means for restaurant operators and the families they serve:

"The National Restaurant Association applauds President Trump's Executive Order removing tariffs on certain food and agricultural products. This action delivers needed relief for restaurants and their customers at a time when food costs have risen nearly 40% over the past four years. We remain committed to working with the Administration to address remaining tariffs, including country-specific ones, to keep restaurant prices affordable and supply chains strong for businesses and diners alike.

"Restaurants depend on a steady, affordable supply of ingredients year-round. While we prioritize U.S. sourcing, many products simply cannot be grown domestically due to seasonal and climate limitations. This action will help keep menus diverse and prices reasonable, which is good for families and great for local businesses. Restaurants are more than places to eat, they're the cornerstones of our communities and a big part of what keeps our economy moving.

"By eliminating tariffs on these goods, the Administration has taken a common-sense step to strengthen the food supply chain, reduce cost pressures, and support menu innovation. We urge the President to consider further actions on alcohol, supplies, and equipment  items which are essential to the hospitality industry.

We commend the President for his leadership on this issue. There are a host of significant cost challenges remaining for our industry, from labor and rent to swipe fees and utilities. We look forward to working with policymakers on solutions that promote resilience and keep our doors open to serve America."

Background

The administration's recent action to remove reciprocal tariffs on certain food products was a critical step toward easing cost pressures. It's important to note these changes apply to reciprocal tariffs imposed broadly across trading partners. Country-specific tariffs, such as those on Brazil and India, remain in place and continue to drive up costs for restaurants and consumers using their products. Addressing these targeted tariffs is critical to ensuring a stable and affordable food supply chain.

About the National Restaurant Association



Founded in 1919, the National Restaurant Association is the leading business association for the restaurant industry, which comprises more than 1 million restaurant and foodservice outlets and a workforce of 15.7 million employees. Together with 52 State Associations, we are a network of professional organizations dedicated to serving every restaurant through advocacy, education, and food safety. We sponsor the industry's largest trade show ( National Restaurant Association Show(Opens in a new window) ); leading food safety training and certification program ( ServSafe(Opens in a new window) ); unique career-building high school program ( the NRAEF's ProStart(Opens in a new window) ). For more information, visit Restaurant.org(Opens in a new window) and find @WeRRestaurants on Twitter(Opens in a new window) , Facebook(Opens in a new window) and YouTube(Opens in a new window) .

SOURCE National Restaurant Association
From November 1721, the country will participate in two major international trade fairs: COMPAMED and MEDICA, and Semicon Europa

Costa Rican delegation to hold meetings with potential investors from leading companies in both sectors

BERLIN, Nov. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Trade and Investment Promotion Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER) will participate in two international trade fairs in Germany, focused on the health and semiconductor sectors, to promote the country's value proposition and attract potential investors.

The national representation will participate COMPAMED and MEDICA (November 1720 in Dusseldorf) and Semicon Europa (November 1821 in Munich), holding meetings with leading companies and investors in both sectors, and with otherleading international investment promotion agencies.

"Participating in these international fairs gives us the opportunity to approach new investors and explore markets that have not traditionally had a strong presence in Costa Rica. Expanding the base of investment origins is key to strengthening the country's resilience and competitiveness, especially in two industries as relevant as medical devices and semiconductors", said Laura Lopez, CEO of PROCOMER.

Costa Rica's participation in COMPAMED and MEDICA aims to strengthen the country's positioning as a hub for medical device manufacturing. The country currently hosts more than 95 foreign direct investment companies in this sector, developing high-precision processes under international standards, and is home to sevenof the world's largest medical device firms. As of September this year, the sector accounted for 48% of Costa Rica's total goods exports, totaling US$8.139 million.

In parallel, Costa Rica's presence at Semicon Europa, one of the most relevant events for the semiconductor industry, seeks to showcase the nation's capabilities in advanced manufacturing, assembly, packaging, research and development, and electronic design strengthening the value chain of this emerging industry in the country, which currently includes 14 foreign investment companies.

"Costa Rica has built a strong track record as a destination for foreign direct investment, and today that experience enables us to position ourselves before emerging industries with a value proposition that combines talent, sustainability, and adaptability. These qualities make us a reliable partner for companies seeking to scale their competitiveness in an increasingly complex global environment," added Lopez.

Previous Mission Strengthened Promotion Efforts in Portugal and the Netherlands

From November 1014, PROCOMER carried out a promotional tour in Portugal and the Netherlands to showcase Costa Rica's value proposition to companies in the corporate services and digital technology sectors.

The agenda included participation in the Web Summit Lisbon 2025 -one of the world's most significant technology events- as well as meetings with companies, chambers, and clusters in Lisbon, Amsterdam, and Rotterdam, aimed at fostering new relationships and investment opportunities for the country.

Europe continues to consolidate itself as one of Costa Rica's main sources of foreign direct investment, being the second most important trading partner, with a 21% share in 2025 and a 17% increase compared to 2024.

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The New Pullman Experience

Since 1859, Pullman has reimagined what it means to travel, meet and connect. Today marks the next chapter in that legacy  one built around exchange. The brand's transformation redefines the hotel as a dynamic social stage, designed to reflect the fluid rhythm of today's traveler.

A striking expression of the new brand language is the Pullman Portal. Inspired by the railway tunnels of Pullman's past, these sculptural entryways mark the transition into a distinct world of exchange. Each Portal acts as a bold architectural signature - recognizable globally, yet reinterpreted locally through materials, form, and color. Guests can already experience the Pullman Portal at Pullman Dubai Jumeirah Lake Towers, while upcoming openings including Pullman Perth Airport and Pullman Hamilton will introduce the design signature to new markets. Further installations will roll out across the network as renovation programs progress.

Meeting and event spaces have also been re-imagined with flexibility at their core - places designed to transform with ease from keynote venue to creative studio, from workshop arena to cultural runway - celebrating the belief that exchange thrives in environments built for possibility.

A New Culinary Stage

Culinary and mixology experiences sit at the heart of the Pullman experience. Bars take center stage as social anchors, alive from the first espresso to the final cocktail. This new era will see menus prioritize spontaneity, shareability, and global flavors, encouraging guests to stay, mingle, and discover.

Launching in 2026, Unexpected Pairings is an experiential bar ritual that will invite guests to draw from a deck of playing cards to discover imaginative flavor combinations of food and cocktails. The experience playfully redefines the art of mixology and dining, encouraging playful curiosity and provoking conversation and exchange through contrast, discovery, and taste.

Human-Centric Service for a New Generation

Over the past 18 months, Pullman has introduced a new learning program for its teams, focused on empathy, cultural awareness, and connection-building. The service culture is grounded in emotional intelligence, empowering Heartists to blend confidence, intuition, and genuine human warmth within every guest interaction.

To date, around 60% of Pullman's 20,000+ Heartists have completed the training, with the remainder set to follow in 2026, equipping teams to respond to guests not only efficiently, but with greater insight and sincere care.

Pullman xChange: Where Vision Meets Legacy

Held from 13 to 14 November 2025, the inaugural Pullman xChange transformed Pullman Dubai Downtown into a live forum for creative collision. Developed with the House of Beautiful Business  a global think tank and community connecting business, technology, and the arts  the experience explored ideas, innovations, and cultural shifts under the theme Build What Outlasts You.

The event forms part of a three-year collaboration between Pullman and the House of Beautiful Business, bringing together a hospitality leader and a global community of creatives and thinkers. Together, the partnership will cultivate a new era of purposeful gatherings, thought leadership, and exchange across continents.

The program in Dubai featured immersive workshops, artistic performances, and discussions led by pioneering voices including Abdulaziz AlJaziri, Deputy CEO & COO of the Dubai Future Foundation; neuroscientist Hannah Critchlow; cyberpsychologist Elaine Kasket; and architect Adib Dada.

Rooted in the belief that progress begins when we challenge what we know and see the familiar with fresh perspective, Pullman xChange blends dialogue, artistic expression, and sensory experience.

In 2026, Pullman xChange will come to life in Europe, Asia, and South America, each edition co-created with a cultural collective to reflect local context.

Momentum for Growth

"Pullman's transformation marks a bold step into the future  one that fuses our heritage of movement and modernity with a renewed sense of purpose", explains Benoit Racle, Global Brand President, Premium, Accor. "Each hotel is conceived as a place of exchange, where ideas and people move freely, fostering creativity and connection. Launching this transformation alongside Pullman xChange felt instinctive, as the event truly brings our brand philosophy to life. It embodies our new spirit  dynamic, connected, and alive with possibility. And this is only the beginning of a movement that will continue to unfold across our hotels worldwide."

With more than 150 hotels in over 40 countries and more than 70 projects in the pipeline, Pullman continues to strengthen its global presence in key destinations across the Middle East, Asia, the Pacific, Europe, and Africa. The brand is on track to surpass 200 hotels and resorts within five years, fueled by owner confidence and growing demand for elevated, culturally attuned premium hospitality.

In 2026 and beyond, new addresses including Pullman Royal Key Wellness Resort in Guadeloupe, Pullman Kolasin Breza in Montenegro, and Pullman Tokyo Ginza in Japan, will showcase Pullman's commitment to transformative architecture, creative exchange, and revitalized spaces that bring the Pullman spirit to life.

Press Kit: Click here

About Pullman

Pullman Hotels & Resorts is where people, cultures and ideas collide. As a platform for social exchanges, Pullman invites global travellers and modern visionaries to meet, collaborate, and engage in transformative spaces. More than 150 addresses around the world act as cultural hubs in the world's most dynamic destinations, from Pullman Paris Montparnasse to Pullman Singapore Orchard and Pullman Maldives Maamutaa. Born over 150 years ago with an open-minded spirit, Pullman continues to evolve as a connector of people and ideas. Pullman is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,700 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL Accor, a booking platform and loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

pullman.com | all.com | group.accor.com

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BOGOTA, Colombia, Nov. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Colombia announced today the commencement of an offer to purchase for cash (the " Offer ") from each registered holder or beneficial owner (each, a " Holder " and, collectively, the " Holders ") the outstanding bonds of the series set forth in the table below (collectively, the " Old Bonds "), such that the maximum amount to be paid for the Old Bonds validly tendered and accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer, not including interest accrued and unpaid thereon, is to be determined by Colombia in its sole discretion (such amount for each series, the " Maximum Purchase Amount "). The terms and conditions of the Offer are set forth in the offer document, dated November 14, 2025 (the " Offer Document "), including the borrowing or issuance of debt and receipt of funds by Colombia (the " Financing Condition ").

Subject to the Financing Condition, the Offer is not conditioned upon any minimum participation of any series of the Old Bonds.

The purchase price to be paid per U.S.$1,000, 1,000, Ps. 1,000 principal amount of each series of Old Bonds, as applicable, that are accepted pursuant to the Offer will be an amount equal to the fixed price indicated in the table below (such amount for each series, the " Purchase Price "). In addition to the Purchase Price, Holders whose Old Bonds are accepted for purchase in the Offer will also receive any accrued and unpaid interest from, and including, the last interest payment date for such Old Bonds up to, but excluding, the Settlement Date (as defined below) (the " Accrued Interest "). If the aggregate Purchase Price for all validly tendered Old Bonds of a series would exceed the Maximum Purchase Amount, then Colombia will, in its sole discretion, apply a proration factor to the Tenders (as defined below).



Old Bonds











Old Bonds Outstanding Principal

Amount as of November

14, 2025 Security Identifier Fixed Purchase Price(1) 3.875% Global Bonds due 2026 (the " EUR

2026 Global Bonds ") 634,893,000 ISIN: XS1385239006 Common Code: 138523900  1,005.71 9.850% Global TES Bonds due 2027 (the

" COP 2027 Global Bonds ", and together

with the EUR 2026 Global Bonds, the

" Non-U.S. Dollar Bonds ") Ps.1,924,515,000,000 ISIN: XS0306322065 Common Code: 030632206 Ps. 1,000.00 3.875% Global Bonds due 2027 U.S.$1,740,144,000 CUSIP: 195325DL6 ISIN: US195325DL65 $1,000.00 4.500% Global Bonds due 2029 U.S.$2,000,000,000 CUSIP: 195325DP7 ISIN: US195325DP79 $1,000.00 3.000% Global Bonds due 2030 U.S.$1,542,968,000 CUSIP: 195325DR3 ISIN: US195325DR36 $918.75 7.375% Global Bonds due 2030 U.S.$1,900,000,000 CUSIP: 195325 ER2 ISIN: US195325ER27 $1,086.25 10.375% Global Bonds due 2033 U.S.$340,511,000 CUSIP: 195325BB0 ISIN: US195325BB02 $1,277.50 8.000% Global Bonds due 2033 U.S.$1,624,241,000 CUSIP: 195325EF8 ISIN: US195325EF88 $1,127.50 7.500% Global Bonds due 2034 U.S.$2,200,000,000 CUSIP: 195325EG6 ISIN: US195325EG61 $1,087.50 8.500% Global Bonds due 2035 U.S.$1,900,000,000 CUSIP: 195325 ES0 ISIN: US195325ES00 $1,160.00 8.000% Global Bonds due 2035 U.S.$1,900,000,000 CUSIP: 195325EL5 ISIN: US195325EL56 $1,117.50 7.750% Global Bonds due 2036 U.S.$2,000,000,000 CUSIP: 195325EP6 ISIN: US195325EP60 $1,090.00 7.375% Global Bonds due 2037 U.S.$1,818,400,000 CUSIP: 195325BK0 ISIN: US195325BK01 $1,066.25 6.125% Global Bonds due 2041 U.S.$2,500,000,000 CUSIP:195325BM6 ISIN: US195325BM66 $928.75 5.000% Global Bonds due 2045 U.S.$3,670,948,000 CUSIP: 105325CU7 ISIN: US105325CU73 $787.50 8.750% Global Bonds due 2053 U.S.$1,900,000,000 CUSIP: 195325EM3 ISIN: US195325EM30 $1,192.50 8.375% Global Bonds due 2054 (together

with the other U.S. dollar denominated

bonds listed above, the " U.S. Dollar

Bonds ") U.S.$1,640,000,000 CUSIP: 195325EQ4 ISIN: US195325EQ44 $1,147.50





(1) Per $1,000 for the U.S. Dollar Bonds per 1,000 for the EUR 2026 Global Bonds and per Ps.1,000 for the COP 2027 Global Bonds. (2) In the case of the COP 2027 Global Bonds, the Purchase Price and related accrued interest will be paid in U.S. dollars, in an amount determined by converting the Purchase Price and related accrued interest to U.S. dollars at a currency exchange rate equal to the "Representative Market Rate" in effect as of 2:00 p.m., New York City time, on the U.S. business day prior to the Non-U.S. Dollar Bonds Tender Period Expiration Time as calculated and published by the Financial Superintendency of Colombia, and which is available on Bloomberg by typing "COP TRM Curncy<INDEX>HP<GO>" or at the Financial Superintendency's website at https://www.superfinanciera.gov.co/publicaciones/60819/informes-y-cifrascifrasestablecimientos-de-creditoinformacion-periodicadiariatasa-de-cambio-representativa-del-mercado-trm-60819/.

Old Bonds may be tendered only in principal amounts equal to the minimum authorized denomination and integral multiples thereof, as set forth below for each series of Old Bonds (the " Minimum Denomination "). Holders who tender less than all of their Old Bonds must continue to hold Old Bonds in at least the Minimum Denomination.

In determining the amount of Old Bonds to be purchased against the Maximum Purchase Amount and available for purchases pursuant to the Offer, the aggregate U.S. dollar-equivalent purchase price of (i) the EUR 2026 Global Bonds shall be calculated at the exchange rate for the Euro to U.S. Dollar, as of 2:00 p.m., New York City time, on the U.S. business day prior to the Non-U.S. Dollar Bonds Tender Period Expiration Time (as defined below), as reported on Bloomberg screen page "FXIP" under the heading "FX Rate vs. USD" (or, if such screen is unavailable, a generally recognized source for currency quotations selected by Colombia with quotes as of a time as close as reasonably possible to the aforementioned), and (ii) the COP 2027 Global Bonds, shall be calculated at the exchange rate equal to the "Representative Market Rate" in effect as of 2:00 p.m., New York City time, on the U.S. business day prior to the Non-U.S. Dollar Bonds Tender Period Expiration Time as calculated and published by the Financial Superintendency of Colombia, and which is available on Bloomberg by typing "COP TRM Curncy<INDEX>HP<GO>" or at the Financial Superintendency's website at https://www.superfinanciera.gov.co/publicaciones/60819/informes-y-cifrascifrasestablecimientos-de-creditoinformacion-periodicadiariatasa-de-cambio-representativa-del-mercado-trm-60819/.

Old Bonds Minimum Authorized Denominations 3.875% Global Bonds due 2026 100,000 and integral multiples of 1,000 in excess thereof 9.850% Global TES Bonds due 2027 Ps. 5,000,000 and integral multiples of Ps. 1,000,000 in excess thereof 3.875% Global Bonds due 2027 U.S.$200,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof 4.500% Global Bonds due 2029 U.S.$200,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof 7.375% Global Bonds due 2030 U.S.$200,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof 3.000% Global Bonds due 2030 U.S.$200,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof 10.375% Global Bonds due 2033 U.S.$1,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof 8.000% Global Bonds due 2033 U.S.$200,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof 7.500% Global Bonds due 2034 U.S.$200,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof 8.500% Global Bond due 2035 U.S.$200,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof 8.000% Global Bonds due 2035 U.S.$200,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof 7.750% Global Bonds due 2036 U.S.$200,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof 7.375% Global Bonds due 2037 U.S.$100,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof 6.125% Global Bonds due 2041 U.S.$100,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof 5.000% Global Bonds due 2045 U.S.$200,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof 8.750% Global Bonds due 2053 U.S.$200,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof 8.375% Global Bonds due 2054 U.S.$200,000 and integral multiples of U.S.$1,000 in excess thereof

Colombia reserves the right, in its sole discretion, not to accept any valid orders to tender any series of Old Bonds in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Offer (" Tenders "), subject to applicable law, to increase or decrease the Purchase Price for any series of the Old Bonds, or to terminate the Offer for any reason. In the event of a termination of the Offer, the tendered Old Bonds will be returned to the tendering Holder.

If Colombia accepts all or a portion of a Holder's Tender, the Holder will be entitled to receive for such Old Bonds the applicable Purchase Price plus Accrued Interest, which will be paid on the Settlement Date (as defined below), if the conditions of the Offer are met.

The Offer commenced on Friday, November 14, 2025. Unless extended or earlier terminated in Colombia's sole discretion, the Offer will expire at (i) 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 for U.S. Dollar Bonds (the " U.S. Dollar Bonds Tender Period Expiration Time ") and (ii) 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on Friday, November 21, 2025 for Non-U.S. Dollar Bonds (the " Non-U.S. Dollar Bonds Tender Period Expiration Time "). In the event that the Offer to purchase U.S. Dollar Bonds or Non-U.S. Dollar Bonds is extended or earlier terminated, the terms "U.S. Dollar Bonds Tender Period Expiration Time" and "Non-U.S. Dollar Bonds Tender Period Expiration Time" shall mean the time and date on which such Offer, as so extended or earlier terminated, shall expire. The settlement of the Offer is scheduled to occur on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 (the " Settlement Date ").

The Old Bonds are held in book-entry form through either the facilities of The Depository Trust Company (" DTC ") or held in book-entry form through the facilities of Clearstream Banking, societe anonyme (" Clearstream "), Euroclear Bank S.A./N.V., as operator of the Euroclear System (" Euroclear ," and together with DTC and Clearstream referred to herein as a "Covered Clearing System" and, collectively, as the " Covered Clearing Systems "). In the event of a termination of the Offer, the Old Bonds tendered pursuant to the Offer will be credited to the Holder through the relevant Covered Clearing System.

You are advised to consult with the broker, dealer, bank, custodian, trust company, or other nominee through which you hold your Old Bonds as to the deadlines by which such intermediary would require receipt of instruction from you to participate in the Offer in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Offer as described in the Offer Document in order to meet the deadlines set forth in the Offer Document. The deadlines set by DTC, Euroclear, Clearstream, or any such intermediary for the submission of Old Bonds may be earlier than the relevant deadlines specified in the Offer Document. The acceptance of any Tenders forwarded to DTC from Euroclear or Clearstream after the Non-U.S. Dollar Tender Period Expiration Time or U.S. Dollar Tender Period Expiration Time, as the case may be, will be in the sole discretion of Colombia.

The complete terms and conditions of the Offer are set forth in the Offer Document, together with any amendments or supplements thereto, which Holders are urged to read carefully before making any decision with respect to the Offer.

Global Bondholder Services Corporation is serving as the tender agent and the information agent in connection with the Offer (the " Tender and Information Agent "), and the Offer Document may be downloaded from the Tender and Information Agent's website https://www.gbsc-usa.com/colombia/ or obtained from the Tender and Information Agent at the contact below:

Contact information: Global Bondholder Services Corporation Attention: Corporate Actions 65 Broadway  Suite 404 New York, New York 10006 Attn: Corporate Actions Banks and Brokers call: +1 (212) 430-3774 Toll free +1 (855) 654-2015 E-mail: [email protected]

, or from the Dealer Managers.

The dealer managers (the " Dealer Managers ") for the Offer are:

Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC Attention: Liability Management 200 West Street, New York New York 10282-2198 Toll Free: +1 (800) 828-3182 Collect: +1 (212) 357-1452 J.P. Morgan Securities LLC Attention: Latin America Debt

Capital Markets 270 Park Avenue New York, New York 10017 United States of America Toll Free: +1 (866) 846-2874 Collect: +1 (212) 834-7279 Santander U.S. Capital Markets LLC Attention: Liability Management 437 Madison Avenue New York, New York 10022 United States of America U.S. Toll Free: (855) 404-3636 U.S. Collect: (212) 350-0660 Email (U.S.): [email protected] Email (Europe) (Banco Santander, S.A.):

[email protected]



Questions regarding the Offer may be directed to and the Offer Document may be obtained from the Dealer Managers at the above contact information.

Republic of Colombia

Ministerio de Hacienda y Credito Publico

Direccion General de Credito Publico y Tesoro Nacional

Carrera 8, No. 6C-38, Piso 1

Bogota D.C., Colombia

For press inquiries:

Contact: Javier Andres Cuellar Sanchez

E-mail: [email protected]

Call: (57) 601 3811700 Ext 3126

Important Notice

This announcement is not an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to sell the Old Bonds. The Offer will be made only by and pursuant to the terms of the Offer Document, as may be amended or supplemented from time to time.

The distribution of materials relating to the Offer, and the transactions contemplated by the Offer, may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions. The Offer is made only in those jurisdictions where it is legal to do so. The Offer is void in all jurisdictions where they are prohibited. If materials relating to the Offer come into your possession, you are required to inform yourself of and to observe all of these restrictions. Each person accepting the Offer shall be deemed to have represented, warranted and agreed (in respect of itself and any person for whom it is acting) that it is not a person to whom it is unlawful to make the Offer pursuant to the Offer Document, it has not distributed or forwarded the Offer Document or any other documents or materials relating to the Offer to any such person, and that it has complied with all laws and regulations applicable to it for purposes of participating in the Offer. Neither Colombia nor any Dealer Manager accepts any responsibility for any violation by any person of the restrictions applicable in any jurisdiction.

The materials relating to the Offer do not constitute, and may not be used in connection with, an offer or solicitation in any place where offers or solicitations are not permitted by law. If a jurisdiction requires that the Offer be made by a licensed broker or dealer and a Dealer Manager or any affiliate of a Dealer Manager is a licensed broker or dealer in that jurisdiction, the Offer, as the case may be, shall be deemed to be made by any Dealer Manager or such affiliate in that jurisdiction. Owners who may lawfully participate in the Offer in accordance with the terms thereof are referred to as "holders."

SOURCE Republic of Colombia
NEW ORLEANS, Nov. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until January 12, 2026 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Stride, Inc. ("Stride" or the "Company") (NYSE: LRN), if they purchased or otherwise acquired the Company's securities between October 22, 2024 and October 28, 2025, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.

Get Help

Stride investors should visit us at https://www.claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-lrn-4 or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.

About the Lawsuit

Stride and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.

On September 14, 2025, it was reported that the Gallup-McKinley County Schools Board of Education had filed a complaint against the Company, alleging fraud, deceptive trade practices, systemic violations of law, and intentional and tortious misconduct, including inflating enrollment numbers by retaining "ghost students" on rolls to secure state funding per student and ignoring compliance requirements, including background checks and licensure laws for its employees. On this news, the price of Stride's shares fell $18.60 per share, or 11.7%, to close at $139.76 per share on September 15, 2025.

Then, on October 28, 2025, the Company disclosed that "poor customer experience" had resulted in "higher withdrawal rates," "lower conversion rates," and had driven students away, and that the Company estimated the impact caused approximately 10,000-15,000 fewer enrollments and that, because of this, its outlook is "muted" compared to prior years. On this news, the price of Stride's shares fell $83.48 per share, or more than 54%, to close at $70.05 per share on October 29, 2025.

The case is MacMahon v. Stride, Inc., et al., Case No. 25-cv-02019.

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.

SOURCE ClaimsFiler
BEIJING, Nov. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On November 13, 2025, the third ChinaJordan Friendship Dialogue was held in Beijing. Under the theme "Openness, Heritage and Mutual Learning: Building a Cultural Bridge Between China and Jordan," the event brought together more than 200 representatives from universities, enterprises, and government institutions from China, Jordan, Egypt, and other countries and regions.

Group photo of the events participants

Yu Yingfu, vice president of the China International Communications Group, Hussam Al Husseini, Jordanian ambassador to China, Guo Wei, Chinese ambassador to Jordan, and Ding Hao, standing committee member of the CPC Committee and vice president of Beijing Foreign Studies University, delivered remarks. Jamal Dmour, head of the Jordanian Chinese Friendship Society, and Zhang Liang, spokesperson of the State Development and Investment Corporation, delivered keynote speeches.

During the dialogue, the "Be the Sun Wukong in Your World" Global Children's Arts Education Program was launched. Centered on aesthetic education, the program uses Sun Wukong as a cultural symbol to foster cross-cultural understanding and friendship. Starting in Jordan, it will turn China's rich aesthetic traditions into creative art-education courses for local children, helping them appreciate the beauty of the cultures of both countries.

During the event, Yu Yingfu, Hussam Al Husseini, and other leaders presented books, including Arabic editions of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China and Zhuangzi, and Chinese editions of The Jordanian Spirit: Selected Jordanian Poems and Jordan Through Details: A Selection of Jordanian Short Stories, to young representatives from China and Arab countries.

The roundtable session focused on ChinaArab cultural exchanges in the era of digital intelligence. Scholars from Beijing Foreign Studies University, young Jordanian sinologists, and reporters from CGTN Arabic shared results in using new technologies to advance cultural exchange. Participants agreed that virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and other tools will make cultural communication more vivid and effective.

The organizers held a flash-mob singing activity featuring Chinese and foreign youth in Beihai Park in late October as a supporting event. A photography exhibition was also held to showcase the achievements of cultural exchange between the two countries through images.

The dialogue was co-hosted by the China International Communications Group and Beijing Foreign Studies University, with support from the State Development and Investment Corporation. Through these diverse forms of engagement, China and Jordan are jointly writing a new chapter of mutual learning between civilizations.

SOURCE China International Communications Group
NEW ORLEANS, Nov. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until December 8, 2025 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against WPP plc (NYSE: WPP), if they purchased or otherwise acquired the Company's shares between February 27, 2025 and July 8, 2025, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.

Get Help

WPP investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-wpp/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.

About the Lawsuit

WPP and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.

On July 9, 2025, the Company published a trading update for the first half of 2025, disclosing that it had allegedly "seen a deterioration in performance as Q2 has progressed" due to both "continued macro uncertainty weighing on client spend and weaker net new business than originally anticipated," as well as "some distraction to the business" as a result of the continued restructuring of WPP Media a.k.a. GroupM. The Company further disclosed that its CEO "will retire from the Board and as CEO on 31 December 2025."

On this news, the price of WPP's shares fell from a closing price of $35.82 per share on July 8, 2025 to $29.34 per share on July 9, 2025, a decline of about 18.1% in the span of just a single day.

The case is Marty v. WPP plc, 25-cv-08365.

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.

SOURCE ClaimsFiler
Kyndryl Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:KD) is one of the Best Mid Cap Tech Stocks to Buy According to Analysts. Wall Street has a mixed opinion on Kyndryl Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:KD) since the company released its fiscal Q2 2026 results on November 4. The company posted an EPS of $0.38, which topped estimates by $0.02. However, the revenue of $3.72 billion missed estimates by $119 million.

Management noted that Kyndryl Consult and Hyperscaler-related revenue were key growth drivers during the quarter. Kyndryl Consult posted 25% year-over-year growth and Hyperscaler-related revenue doubled during the same time. However, the total revenue decreased 1.40% and fell short of expectations due to longer sales cycles. Moreover, management is also focusing on margin expansion, which has led to removing low-margin hardware and software content from customer contracts.

On the bright side, Kyndryl Holdings, Inc.s (NYSE:KD) book-to-bill ratio remains above 1, and management reaffirmed its fiscal 2026 outlook, expecting revenue growth in the second half of the year, driven by a stronger backlog.

After the release on November 6, James Faucette from Morgan Stanley lowered the firms price target on the stock from $30 to $28, while reiterating a Hold rating. On the same day, Tien Tsin Huang from J.P. Morgan also reduced the price target from $45 to $40, but maintained a Buy rating on the stock.

Kyndryl Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:KD) is based in New York City. The company designs, builds, and manages critical technology systems for enterprises worldwide, increasingly layering AI-native automation atop its core IT modernization services.

While we acknowledge the potential of KD as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
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
Brendon Thorne / Bloomberg / Getty Images Economic uncertainty and financial market volatility are expected to continue underpinning demand for the precious metal.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The price of gold has rebounded over the past week after slumping for a few weeks following a series of record highs.

Several demand drivers for the precious metal persist, most notably strong investment demand from ETFs.

Additional policy or financial market risk could push prices up another 10%, UBS says.

The price of gold surged in anticipation of the federal government shutdown, but now that it's over, the rally won't necessarily end.

Ongoing robust investment demand amid continued economic uncertainty could keep driving gold higher, analysts say.

Gold has hit a series of record highs this year, with the spot price surging as high as $4,360 per troy ounce on Oct. 20 before slumping in the weeks that followed to as low as $3,970 early last week. The trend has reversed course over the past week, with the precious metal hitting a high around $4,260 Thursday morning before giving back some of those gains later in the day.

The renewed rally reflects a market environment that, despite the end of the shutdown, hasn't changed materially. It's an environment that has spurred hearty demand from gold-related North American exchange-traded funds.

It's also one that UBS, in a research note, sees pushing gold to $4,700 if political or financial market risk increases.

Why This Matters to Investors

Investors often turn to gold as a safe haven during times of economic uncertainty and financial market volatility. The outlook for the U.S. economy is murky and concerns have grown about the sustainability of a rally that has lifted stocks to record highs. Some prominent investors in recent months have suggested that investment portfolios should have more gold exposure than has been typical.

Heavy Trading Volume

U.S. gold trading volume reached a record high of $208 billion per day in October. It rose 59% in September from the previous month and another 51% in October. Demand from ETFs triggered that volume, easily compensating for lower global demand for gold jewelry, bars and coins. In the U.S. alone, gold ETFs added 160% more physical gold to their holdings in the third quarter than during the same period a year ago.

That demand could persist, UBS said, considering the continued cloudy geopolitical outlook.

For one, the legislation ending the shutdown only funds the federal government through Jan. 30. Another partial shutdown could occur at that time if Congress doesn't approve an additional continuing resolution or make progress on funding other departments.

Other Demand Drivers

In addition, a skeptical Supreme Court last week threw into doubt the legality of President Trump's tariff policy based on the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). A decision could be forthcoming in several weeks, but uncertainty in the interim "should provide ongoing support for gold," UBS said.
Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena clapped back at a recent contention from rival railroad BNSF Railway that the company would eliminate 300 intermodal lanes upon the approval of its takeover of Norfolk Southern.

Berkshire Hathaway-owned BNSF, which is the top competitor to Union Pacific in the Western U.S., stated in a public rebuke last month that the proposed $85 billion merger would cause long-term harm for industrywide competition and result in higher freight rates for shippers.

More from Sourcing Journal

Venas defense felt more sarcastic than serious at times during his chat at Tuesdays Baird Global Industrial Conference, noting that he had the BNSF statement sitting on his bathroom wall. But he questioned why Union Pacific would take that action, and denied the number that BNSF reported.

Why would we shut off 300 lanes? First of all, we do not have 300 lanes like in intermodal. There are not that many lanesone that goes north out of L.A., another one that goes to Chicago, another one that goes to Memphis, another one goes to Atlanta. I had to ask [Kenny Rocker, Union Pacifics executive vice president of marketing and sales], are you hiding 290 lanes from me that I do not understand? They said we are going to shut down that many and I laugh.

Vena made his comments three days before shareholders of both Class I railroads voiced their overwhelming approval of the acquisition, clearing one of the hurdles necessary for the merger to go through.

BNSF did not acknowledge whether Venas comments refuted its reported number in a statement, but president and CEO Katie Farmer responded with a message of her own Wednesday.

Im sure the nations rail customers are relieved that UP is committing to keep all current intermodal lanes open if their merger with NS is approved, said Farmer. UP highlighted in prior rail industry mergers that the new merged railroad usually raises rates on competing interchange partners to the point of making those lanes economically uncompetitive.

BNSF had indicated in the two-page message to customers that 90 intermodal facilities closed after the last major Class I merger between Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern, which resulted in several hundred fewer intermodal lane options and communities permanently losing their intermodal access.

With the release of Farmers statement, BNSF said that many of its criticisms were similar to Union Pacifics own position during the merger process of the now combined Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC).
XRP just made crypto exchange-traded fund history.

Investors poured nearly $250 million into Canary Capitals spot XRP ETF launched November 13, marking the largest crypto ETF debut of 2025.

Thats according to Nate Geraci, co-founder of the ETF Institute and President of the ETF Store, who gushed about the debut on Thursday.

Canary XRP ETF posts highest day one trading volume out of 900+ ETF launches this year, he said on X. Also nearly $250 million inflows.

The explosive launch comes as Washington reopens after a historic shutdown, giving issuers confidence that crypto ETF applications will move through oversight agencies again. President Donald Trump signed the funding package on Wednesday to end the 43-day shutdown

Canary Capitals CEO Steven McClurg said in August he expects $5 billion to flow into XRP ETFs in their first month.

On the same day, US spot Bitcoin ETFs saw $866 million in selling pressure, while Ethereum counterparts saw $260 million in outflow, according to DefiLlama data.

Not the first

Canarys spot ETF is not the first investment vehicle for XRP.

The REX-Osprey XRP ETF was launched in September, but operates under the Investment Company Act of 1940, rather than the Securities Act of 1933, making it a different class of product.

Wall Street investment firms have also filed to launch XRP ETFs. Those include Fidelity, Invesco, and Franklin Templeton, according to the Depository Trust and Clearing Corporation.

New record

Still, this weeks debut stunned even ETF veterans.

Congrats to $XRPC for $58 million in day one volume, the most of any ETF launched this year, Eric Balchunas, senior ETF analyst at Bloomberg, said on X.

Eleanor Terret, host of the Crypto in America podcast, said on X: With the $XRP Army behind it, is anyone really surprised?

The price of XRP, the fourth biggest crypto by market value, has jumped over 200% in 2025 on the anticipation of approvals, and is trading around $2.30.

To be sure, it is still down 37% from the $3.65 set record set in July. On Polymarket, bettors are giving the price a 44% chance of hitting $2.60 before December.

Lacie Zhang, research analyst at Bitget Wallet, told DL News that XRPs expected range of $2.00$2.65 corresponds with resistance near $2.50 amid cautious regulatory optimism.

Ripple moves

Ripple, the company behind the XRP cryptocurrency, is also making big plays.

On November 5, the firm tripled its valuation to $40 billion after a $500 million strategic funding round including Citadel Securities, Fortress Investment Group, Pantera Capital, Galaxy Digital, Brevan Howard, and Marshall Wace.
(Reuters) -New York Federal Reserve President John Williams met with Wall Street banks this week to discuss a key short-term lending facility, the Financial Times reported on Friday, amid signs of tighter market liquidity.

"President Williams convened the New York Fed's primary trading counterparties (primary dealers) to continue engagement on the purpose of the standing repo facility as a tool of monetary policy implementation and to solicit feedback that ensures it remains effective for rate control," a New York Fed spokesperson told the newspaper.

The New York Fed did not immediately respond to Reuters request for comment.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Fed's annual Treasury market conference on Wednesday, the FT said.

Roberto Perli, the official responsible for implementing monetary policy, said on Wednesday that firms needing to use the central bank's standing repo facility should tap it when needed, adding that large-scale usage would not be problematic.

Ahead of the Fed's meeting in October, rising money market rates, an upward drift of the federal funds rate and use of the SRF all signaled tightening market liquidity.

The SRF allows eligible financial firms to turn bonds into cash quickly and acts as a shock absorber for market liquidity needs. Adopted in 2021, the tool had until late mostly gone unused.

While its use in late October was notable, it was less than some had expected, and some Fed officials have said they were perplexed that more firms did not tap the SRF but instead borrowed from markets at higher rates than those offered by the Fed.

(Reporting by Bipasha Dey in Bengaluru; Editing by Diane Craft and William Mallard)
Clay Cane is many things: journalist, historian, author, and host of The Clay Cane Show on SiriusXM. But hes long hoped to add another title to that list: novelist.

Next yearon the heels of his 2024 nonfiction bestseller The Grift: The Downward Spiral of Black Republicans from the Party of Lincoln to the Cult of Trumphell finally accomplish that goal when Dafina publishes Burn Down Masters House, which was inspired by true stories of enslaved people who rose up and fought back against chattel slavery in the United States.

I started writing Burn Down Masters House 24 years ago, Cane says from his office in Jersey City, N.J., which hes called home since 1998. I had just started at Rutgers, and my first class was Black studies with Dr. Zain Abdullah. He changed my life completely. I was activated and triggered. I became obsessed with what they called slave narratives back then. I was really moved by these stories of people writing their own stories, their own perspectives, and it really triggered me.

He was also inspired by the historical fiction he was reading at the timeworks by writers such as Arna Bontemps and Margaret Walker, as well as Uncle Tom's Children is by Richard Wright. I learned so much from historical fiction, Cane says. I understood the politics and the policy better, I understood the underpinnings of slavery better, and I said, I want to do it this way.

Cane says one book in particular, The Greatest Taboo, a 2001 essay collection edited by Delroy Constantine-Simms, really shifted the narrative for him. It was about homosexuality in Black communities, and they talked about homosexuality in American chattel slavery, he recalls. Theres very little data around it, but I had to learn more. Hearing all of this from the perspective of the enslaved person, that just settled into me, and not to be too hyperbolic, but it almost felt like it was spiritually in me.

Cane was raised, after his parents separated when he was a kid, in both small-town Washington State, where he says he faced a lot of deep, ugly racism, and big-city Philadelphia, where he felt more safe as a Black gay kid growing up in the 80s. His father worked for the Philadelphia transit system and his mother was a waitress, and both were readers who pushed him in that direction, too.

I would get books for Christmas, Cane remembers. In 10th grade, I read Roots. And my mom wouldnt let me go see Malcolm X without reading the book first. Also, in Philadelphia, theres a great Black radical tradition. That really resonated with me. So, I began to fuse my love of reading and writing with history at that point, and it all got to me through books, although, in school, they didnt teach Black history at all.

Meanwhile, Cane began hearing stories about his family history from his grandfather. My family was enslaved in Goochland, Va., so when I came across these hidden histories in my first year of college, it all felt incredibly connected, he says. Its like these stories have always been with me.

After high school, Cane spent a semester at Penn State but quit and took a job in New York City at an LGBTQ+ community center. When he was 24, his boss at the center suggested he finish his degree. Cane did just that, earning a BA in African American studies and English from Rutgers in 2009. While still at Rutgers, Cane began working as a journalist, writing for CNN, Mens Fitness, Vibe, and other publications, and eventually landing a gig as an editor at BET. From there, he hasnt looked back.

He helped edit For Colored Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Still Not Enough (2012) and contributed a piece to Where Did Our Love Go: Love and Relationships in the African-American Community (2013). He went on to produce, write, and direct the BET documentary Holler If You Hear Me: Black and Gay in the Church (2015)which earned a GLAAD Media Award nomination and was screened at the White Houseand wrote Live Through This: Surviving the Intersections of Sexuality, God, and Race (2017).

All of my work is very personal to me, Cane says. Theres always a connection there, a curiosity. And so much of the time, Im just trying to connect the dots, to figure out how we got here. With everything happening politically now, I wanted to see where we were coming from, to try to make it make sense.

While promoting Live Through This, Cane appeared on the Karen Hunter Show on SiriusXM. The two had a good rapport, and by 2018 he had his own hour-long daily show on the network. Karen advocated for me, he says. And now I have three hours, from noon to three, Monday to Friday.

His radio work inspired him to explore the history of Black Republicans, which eventually led to The Grift. It was all about, How did we get here? How did this happen? Its all history repeating itself. I did a nine-minute spot on The View, and it changed the whole trajectory of the book and my life.

With the success of The Grift, readers might expect another nonfiction deep dive from Cane. But the author decided to shake things up and finally finish his novel. Burn Down Masters House is an interconnected series of stories that shines light on narratives of enslaved people whose acts of rebellion have been erased from historyfrom the deft cook Josephine, who poisoned her masters family with a delectable final supper, to Luke and Henri, whose love story was an act of rebellion in and of itself.

Theres a lot of research in it, but I had unearthed these stories that had been buried, Cane says. Some are more fictionalized than others, but these are real people who we havent heard from. They just vanished from the historical record. I wanted to raise their voices. A remembrance, yes, but also an uprising. And now its finally happening.

The book is unflinchingly brutal and visceral in its depictions of the horrific physical and psychological violence enslaved people faced. Its also equallyand purposefullybrutal in its portrayal of the violence of rebellion. I wanted to remind people what slavery actually looked like, Cane says. Nina Simone once said, Dont put nothing in if you cant feel it. When I was writing it, I was thinking of my ancestors as well. How could I make sure they were properly centered, and that you could feel them? So, all the main characters in the book are real people, and all the secondary characters are named after my ancestors who were enslaved.

Burn Down Masters House also has its share of love and joy, highlighting the connections between enslaved people and the networks and families they createdthings that helped them survive and rise up. That was really important to me, Cane explains. To make it as raw, as sad, but also as joyful and victorious. To show the humanity that gets erased.

And while the book is steadfastly historical fiction, Burn Down Masters House also feel timely given the current political landscape. For me, there are these moments, now, today, ringing clear as a bell, Cane says. Like Kanye West saying slavery was a choice. Ron DeSantis saying there are personal benefits to slavery. Nikki Haley saying the Civil War wasnt about slavery. The book bans. The erasure.

For Cane, Burn Down Masters House is a call to action. Im going to tell a story that has not been told, he says. Im going to call on everything that is in mefrom me being a little boy in Philadelphia to reading Malcolm X and amazing Black radical literature, my days at Rutgers University, working at BET, Holler If You Hear Me, Live Through This, and The Griftand Im gonna burn this down. Im going to ask, Are these structures serving us? And if not, lets burn it all down.

Sona Charaipotra is a journalist, editor, and the author of six books.

Correction: A previous version of this story incorrectly referenced Uncle Tom's Cabin. The book Cane mentioned was Uncle Tom's Children by Richard Wright.
Independent bookstores have long served as community hubs, a position thats become even more crucial as public resources dwindle and third places disappear. Some booksellers take this role a step or three further, with mutual aid initiatives, literacy programs, and other models that go beyond traditional retail.

Spreading the word

Collectively owned Firestorm Books in Asheville, N.C., opened in 2008 as primarily a cafe and has evolved into a feminist, queer, and anarchist political project and community space that sustains itself through book sales. After the devastation Hurricane Helene brought to the region in 2024, neighbors flocked to Firestorm as a gathering place.

People literally put a sign on the door saying, This is the spot to meet,  says worker-owner Libertie Valance, an events coordinator for the store. People knew we werent just going to leave the doors locked. As soon as we were able to navigate through the wreckage, we were here doing whatever we could to be a place where people could share information and organize.

Worker-owner Beck Nippes, a buyer for the store, says that when theres a major crisis, Firestorm goes into what staffers call cockroach mode: We put the business aspect on ice and focus instead on doing what needs to be done for each other and our community, they say. Getting to decide how to survive together works a lot better than a traditional business model.

Both Firestorm and Red Emmas in Baltimore have roots in infoshopsDIY anarchist spaces that provide access to radical materials and community-focused, often community-sourced, information.

Were the living room of the left, says Megan Berkobien, a worker-owner at Red Emmas. People come here when they want to get engaged, or when theyre already engaged but need a deeper sense of community or structure. Folks dipping their toes into leftist movements come to us for guidance, book recommendations, workshops, book clubs, everything.

Since joining three years ago, worker-owner Taylor Morgan has built on the stores pay-it-forward program, which allows customers to pick up someone elses tab in the on-site cafe. Expanded mutual aid services include a community fridge, a pink pantry with period and birth control supplies, a free-clothing rack, and a shelf of free books.

Red Emmas also has a robust zine library, which Morgan says has grown exponentially. Ive had many interactions with people who use our free fridge and mutual aid resources. When we talk, Ill say, Heres a zine on this topic. Read this, come back, and well talk more about it. Thats a powerful way to get information out to people who might not buy something or whove never heard about some of the things that we have zines on. This is the first time weve had such a comprehensive library of free information on radical and sometimes life-saving topics.

Giving stuff away may seem counterintuitive to the survival of a business, but its a model that builds community trust. At Semicolon Books in Chicago, it allowed the business to pivot after the threat of closure earlier this year. Founded in 2019 by art curator DL Moore, Semicolon is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides free books to schools and donates books and funds to more than two dozen local organizations. Once each quarter, the store hosts a clear the shelves day, allowing students to select whichever books they want at no cost.

Books should be attainable for everyone, Moore says. Were interested in closing the literacy gap in communities of color, and we recognize that the gap typically exists because of the lack of financial accessibility to books. When people dont have to think about cost, they get interested a lot more quickly. In the past six years, Semicolon has partnered with Google, Meta, Nike, and other high-profile brands to increase its visibility and provide free books to more than 13,000 Chicagoans.

In January, when Moore announced that the store would be closing, the community rallied, raising almost $50,000 to keep it around. Moving forward, Semicolon is shifting to a model that Moore thinks might be more sustainable long-term.

Retail is in a horrible position right now, so weve moved to more of a reading room concept, she says. So many people have lost their jobs; it feels like a silly time to say, Buy this book. Were partnering with the city of Chicago and the Chicago Public Library to create community programming, because we believe that reading can heal. Thats going to put us in a position to show up at events that align with our values but not have to fund things through retail.

Support Structures

Brooklyns Mil Mundos Books, founded in 2019 by codirector Maria Herron, is a multilingual co-op bookstore and community center that celebrates Black, Latinx, and Indigenous heritage, Herron says, with a mindset toward continuing education for volunteers and customers. This is a larger anti-gentrification project for our community.

In 2021, the collective launched Mil Mundos en Comun, a 501(c)(3) that provides essential goods, free books, free English lessons for Spanish speakers, and accessible community internet. The bookstore and nonprofit work to promote resources and fill gaps where they exist, while also helping city newcomers learn to understand subway maps and figure out municipal hurdles.

Equity comes in more shapes than capital, Herron says. As Mil Mundos has grown, its been a boon for the community, but growth also presents ongoing challenges. The need for collective self-care is never-ending. Theres also an ever-increasing need for fluency in an advocate role. No matter how much you learn, you need to learn more.

Mil Mundos is a multi-stakeholder cooperative with worker-owners and consumer-owners, whose responsibilities vary. Each worker is asked to be at the store only a few hours each week, which helps stave off burnout. Profit isnt the pointmost of the staff pay their bills through other work. The retail side of the project exists to fund the community aspects.

In Austin, Black Pearl Books also operates retail and nonprofit arms. Katrina and Eric Brooks opened Black Pearl in 2019 as a pop-up bookstore with an e-commerce platform; the store saw a huge increase in business during the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020 and moved into a shared space with a local nonprofit later that year, then moved into its own, larger storefront in February 2022.

With a goal of promoting diversity, inclusion, and representation through literature, the couple formed a 501(c)(3) , Put It in a Book, in 2021. One of its main programs partners with Title 1 schools, which receive federal funds because a large portion of their student bodies come from low-income families.

Title 1 schools often dont get author visits because their community of parents and supporters dont have disposable income to meet book-buy minimums, nor do the schools have the budget to pay thousands to bring in an author, Katrina explains. Here in Austin, Title 1 schools usually have a large percentage of BIPOC children, who need to see representation with BIPOC authors. Put It in a Book brings authors into schools and buys books so that every child can take home a signed copy to share with family.

Theres value for the authors as well, Eric says. We took an author to an all-girls middle school last week. Twice during her presentation, she had to pause because she was looking at the kids and got choked up. She said, These are the children that I write for. 

Creating opportunities for young people to engage with books is also at the heart of More Than Words, a Massachusetts nonprofit that helps system-involved youths ages 1624 get and hold jobs, learn financial literacy, and develop self-sufficiency skills. CEO Jodi Rosenbaum created More Than Words in 2005 after working in the juvenile court system in Georgia, where she says young people werent given a fair shot. Rosenbaum returned to her home state of Massachusetts determined to create a new social enterprise model. More Than Words trains youths to work at its bookstores, warehouse, or thrift store; if they make a fireable mistake, theyre allowed to return and try again.

Community for us is so much more than just where our bookstore presence is, says More Than Words chief of social enterprise Shaun Newell. We want to have a presence in the communities where our young people live. We meet our young people in court, at school, and at home, and take them to events around the state where they should have the opportunity to go.

Creating opportunities, sharing resources, building communityits all in a days work for the booksellers PW interviewed, even if, to some outside observers, things dont quite add up. I think some of the smart business decisions you make might not always align with your social mission, Newell says. To try to stay relevant in community spaces and continue to move forward in spite of roadblocks can be challenging, but its all about persistence.

Samantha Puc writes about LGBTQ+ and fat representation in pop culture. They coordinate the Nonbinarian Bookstores virtual book club and newsletter.

Read more from our Reaching Marginalized Readers feature.

Indie Publishers Support Marginalized Authors
Across the U.S., various organizations work to ensure that people who are incarcerated have access to literature. These include Books to Prisoners, which originated with a bookstore, and Books Not Bars, a publishers program.

Seattles Left Bank Books has operated as an anarchist collective since it opened in 1973. An early initiative, Books to Prisoners, has grown into one of the countrys largest prison literacy projects. In 2024, some 27,500 pounds of books went out to prisons in more than 40 states, with the help of local groups that know the rules of individual states and institutions.

Executive director Andy Chan began volunteering with Books to Prisoners in 1994. He says that more than a thousand letters arrive each month from incarcerated people in facilities where library budgets have waned. If they didnt need books, they wouldnt be asking, he notes. The most requested item is a dictionary, and sci-fi and westerns are popular fiction genres; other wish-list items include GED guides, vocational manuals, and books on small business ownership. Content bans that vary by state and facility can keep incarcerated people from receiving books exploring race and identity, Chan explains, citing a 2022 incident in Tennessee, when a Malcolm X biography was rejected by a correctional facility with a handwritten note that read, Malcolm X not allowed.

Learning brings up questioning, and questioning is not what they wantthey want people to do what theyre told to do, Chan says. We want people to leave better than when they arrived, and reading books is one of the ways that can happen.

Dana Blanchard joined Haymarket Books, a radical nonprofit publisher in Chicago, in 2016. As she settled into her new job as publicist, she noticed a stack of requests from incarcerated readers. Staffers took turns mailing out books when they had time, but the volume of requests continued to grow. Eventually, Haymarket streamlined the process, and in 2021, Books Not Bars was born.

Later that year, the publisher released We Do This Til We Free Us by Mariame Kaba, which stoked conversations about justice reform and prison abolition. Blanchard, now Haymarkets programming coordinator, says the title also helped Books Not Bars connect to organizations like the Mississippi collective Study and Struggle, a political education group she describes as led by folks who are currently incarcerated.

Each week, Haymarkets initiative receives an average of 50 letters at its post office box, many of them requesting books about Black liberation, radical poetry, and political history. Last year, the publisher donated 14,000 books to various causes, and with the help of its annual fundraising campaign, 1,500 of those were earmarked for Books Not Bars.

Were about political education for everyone, Blanchard says. And everyone includes folks who are currently incarcerated.
Chinas domination of global mining operations threatens the American way of life. Although Beijing announced a year-long delay to enacting price controls on critical minerals (CM) exports, given the severity of the threat of relying on adversaries like China, the U.S. must continue to reindustrialize and bring critical operations back home.

A new Independent Women report argues expanding domestic mining operations will bolster our economy and strengthen our national security without despoiling the environment.

The U.S. mining industrys economic footprint is vast and expected to grow under domestic reshoring efforts. The industry employs 600,000 Americans and has a direct economic output of $85 billion, or 1.3 percent of the U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The average annual salary for a typical miner is $110,000, and a single mining job can lead to 2.5 new jobs in related sectors.

Multiple strategically important new mines will become fully operational within the next three to five years due to the Trump administrations policies.

The Brook Mine in Wyoming, an existing coal mine, is expanding its operations into REEs. The mine boasts 1.7 million tons of proven critical mineral oxide deposits on its 4,500-acre site. In July 2025, MP Mineralsthe company overseeing the sole American REE mine in Mountain Pass Mine in Californiaannounced a multibillion-dollar private-public partnership with the Department of War (DOW) to construct the new 10X Facility. By 2028, the companys manufacturing capacity promises to reach 10,000 metric tonsthe amount of REEs we import from China annually. MP Minerals also intends to expand its existing mines operations to extract, separate, and refine REEs in one place.

As of this writing, 29 mining projects are being fast-tracked by the Federal Permitting Council for permitting.

Americas approach to responsible mining equally proves a strong economy can also secure our nation. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) controls 60 percent of global supply and processes 90 percent of REE. The U.S. currently imports 10,000 tons of REE, a subset of critical minerals, annuallyor 70 percent of its supplyfrom China. But it wasnt always like this.

In 1993, our country produced roughly one-third of the worlds REEs, second only to Chinas 38 percent. As environmental regulations tightened and Chinese producers undercut prices through state subsidies and lower labor costs, U.S. operations shuttered. An example of this tactic occurred in 2023, when a cobalt mine in Idaho was forced to idle operations after China deliberately waited for U.S. investors to commit capital, then flooded the global market with cheap cobalt, driving prices down and undermining the projects viability. By the early 2000s, China had captured more than 90 percent of the global market.

Chinas leverage extends beyond production. It has repeatedly used export restrictions as a tool of coercion. Therefore, this level of dependence poses an undeniable national-security risk. If geopolitical tensions escalate, the United States could face serious supply disruptions, leaving manufacturers unable to meet urgent production needs. Advanced weapons systemsfrom F-35 fighter jets to Tomahawk missilesrely on REE-based components. Chinas near-monopoly is neither inevitable nor irreversible. The United States has the geological resources, technical know-how, and industrial capacity to reclaim a meaningful share of this market.

To supplement reshoring, the U.S. can employ an onshoring-to-friendshoring strategy that ensures our country partners allied nations to bypass China. The Trump administration has already struck deals with Ukraine and imports REEs from Estonia. President Trump secured mineral deals with Malaysia and Japan on his recent Asia trip.

By combining domestic production, strategic overseas investment, and allied cooperation, the United States can build the mineral backbone of the twenty-first century, ensuring that its economic strength, industrial capacity, and military readiness remain firmly under its own control.

Approving more U.S. mining projects wont despoil our environment either. A highly-regulated sector, the mining industry already innovates technologies and operations to minimize its environmental footprint.

Unlike the CCP, the U.S. takes environmental stewardship seriously. U.S. mining companies adhere to at least 36 environmental regulations to operate. American mines only disturb "a tiny infinitesimal pinprick in the landscape." To receive approval, new mining facilities must develop a reclamation plan to restore affected lands after mining operations cease. Nearly three million acres of mining lands, particularly coal fields, have been successfully reclaimed since the 1980s and become prime habitat for reintroduced elk.

The Twin Metals Mine in Minnesota that could be revived by the Trump administration pledged to be a low-carbon producer of the critical minerals needed in the fight against climate change. And the Stibnite Gold Project in Idaho is restoring critical salmon habitat in the Salmon River where an abandoned mining pit blocks fish passage and migration along 20 miles of this rivers section.

Critical minerals, including rare earth elements, are essential to daily life, with the average American consuming three million pounds of materials, minerals, and fuels across their lifetime.

Overreliance on China here has depressed our economy, invited national security risks, and fueled environmental crises in developing nations. Now is the time to unleash the golden age of American mining.

Gabriella Hoffman is the director of Independent Womens Center for Energy and Conservation. Meaghan Mobbs is the director of Independent Womens Center for American Safety and Security.
Since Israels response to the October 7th terrorist attacks, university associations and faculty unions around the world have increasingly moved to boycott Israeli institutions. From Brazil and Ireland to Norway, Belgium, and Spain, academic bodies have passed resolutions cutting ties with Israeli universities over the war in Gaza. McGill Universitys faculty association in Canada became the latest to join that list, voting overwhelmingly to boycott all Israeli cultural and academic institutions two weeks ago.

There is obvious merit to wanting to punish states that commit crimes against humanity. Still, this academic boycott may get us no closer to peace and justice.

Its true that Israel has a lot to answer for. In its response to Hamass terrorist attacks, Israel has killed at least 70,000 Palestinians, most of whom are women and children, according to the most conservative estimates corroborated by Israeli security experts. 70 percent of the Gaza Strip is destroyed and uninhabitable. Gaza may never exist again.

Israeli troops routinely kill journalists, doctors, and aid workers, and kill civilians, including children, trying to get food and medicine, all in violation of international humanitarian law. Outside Gaza, Israeli settlements, supported by the Netanyahu coalition government, also encroach further and further onto internationally-recognized Palestinian lands, with settlers and IDF regularly kicking Palestinians out of their homes and killing civilians. Israel has bombed Syrias government and a residential neighbourhood in Doha, and has blocked humanitarian aid.

Netanyahu and the far-right have also turned Israel, a once-thriving pluralistic social democracy, into an ethnonationalist autocracy hostile to non-Jews.

Supporters of these academic boycotts want to isolate Israels educational system as an act of protest. As Ilan Pappe put it, this boycott aims to make Israeli academics understand their responsibility in creating these conditions, and urge them to demand change from their government. Through this act, they hope to pressure Israel into political or moral reform.

Advocates of the boycott often cite Apartheid South Africa as proof that isolation and international pressure can work to compel morality.

Theyre only partly right.

It is true that Apartheid South Africa was reformed through sanctions, but the conditions here do not match. Apartheid South Africa was far more economically and diplomatically vulnerable than Israel, and its eventual transition was shaped by a combination of U.S. and UK pressure, the Berlin Wall falling, United Nations resolutions, and domestic change (fueled by an ethnic majority against a minority). None of those conditions really exist in Israel today.

Nonviolent diplomacy and aggressive bargaining are most often (with some notable exceptions) the most successful ways to bring about concessions and long-term change. Research has also shown that existing academic boycotts against Israel have had no significant effect on Israeli academia. They may not be as spiritually edifying, but were trying to improve the world, not just make ourselves feel better.

That is why meaningful, principled engagement with Venezuela, Cuba, Nicaragua, Russia, China, Iran, and others, has proven more effective than isolation or violent regime change. That does not negate how passionately we believe these authoritarian systems and militarism are anti-human. Supporting principled engagement can open channels of humanitarian aid, political concessions, and reform in times of dire need.

Each of these countries has been subject to isolation and sanctions, yet none has become more open or democratic as a result, and ordinary people have suffered. Restricting academic freedom and scientific inquiry while academia is dying, particularly while Israel is a scientific superpower, is also wrong.

Similarly, in this case, Israeli academia, like most academic environments, is where most critics of Israels behaviour lie, and may have a direct impact on policy.

It is precisely when states are isolated that they turn to more unsavoury actors, and when fear begins to drive policy, which tends to lead to some pretty awful results. Isolation can push countries to double down on their bad policies, rather than changing course.

Excluding Israeli universities from global academic life would not weaken the Netanyahu government or its policies in Gaza, but would do the opposite. It would push Israel further inward. We have already seen Israels behaviour become more erratic and dismissive of international consensus as it has gotten more isolated. This is consistent with all other sanctioned states in wartime; Russia, Myanmar, and Iran are good examples.

Likewise, while peace advocates (and most Israelis) may all want Netanyahu gone, a shift to the right would be likely, and materially disastrous. Leaders backed into a corner with nothing to lose do not become Nobel Prize winners. Netanyahu is prolonging this war to stay in power and out of jail.

If our humanitarian goal is true, then we should pursue all options necessary to fulfill it. Wouldnt it be in the interest of peace to maintain relationships with the remaining critical-minded figures in the country, particularly if they have a chance at changing debates and policies? Cutting off these partnerships decreases our chance, though it may be slim, of creating peace, and decreases academics own credibility and leverage when pushing for progress. Powerless, they now become easier to ignore.

There is a wide array of research, produced by the very universities that advocate for these boycotts, that says boycotts are not effective at producing behavioral change. In recent months, similar motions have been debated or approved at universities across the world. Faculty groups at universities in Brazil, Ireland, Norway, Belgium, and Spain have endorsed versions of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) campaign.

These campaigns for academic boycotts against Israel started in 2004 but became popularized by BDS after Israels Operation Protective Edge in 2014, with 500 anthropologists and Middle East scholars endorsing an academic boycott. This is, however, the most significant academic boycott campaign since then.

Even when symbolic, these moves have drawn intense debate over whether academic isolation fosters justice or stifles dialogue. Around the world, influence is weakening, making way for hard power and nationalism. Governments, including in the Western democracies, have cut back hard on aid, diplomacy, and cultural partnerships. Though there are significant problems with existing relationships, rarely are geopolitical vacuums filled by better actors.

Israel-Palestine is a sensitive issue for a lot of people, and rightfully so, given the Western worlds deep ties to Israel, which gives the West a uniquely privileged position to influence policy. But it is precisely because of this relationship that cutting ties is counterproductive. If peace and justice truly are our north stars, we must continue dialogue and partnership and use our leverage to enable progress.

Joseph Bouchard is a journalist and researcher from Quebec covering security and democracy in the Americas. He currently serves as a Middle East History and Peace Fellow with Young Voices. He is a PhD student in Politics at the University of Virginia and a SSHRC doctoral fellow.
As part of an effort to burnish his image on the world stage, President Trump has used the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan to present himself as a peacemaker. While there is no denying Trumps desire for peace, recent headlines from the South Caucasus paint a contradictory picture. On the one hand, a framework for a peace agreement brokered by President Trump between Armenia and Azerbaijan has been largely finalized. On the other hand, the final signing remains in limbo, with ongoing tensions and mutual distrust clouding the path to formal peace. This suspicion is exacerbated by alarming rhetoric from Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev. His recent statements referring to Armenia as Azerbaijans "historical lands" threaten to derail any potential reconciliation.

This fits a dangerous pattern of Aliyev's historical revisionism, notably the claim that Armenia is "Western Azerbaijan." This narrative has been exposed in leaked documents, revealing a long-term, coordinated, state-sponsored campaign by Azerbaijan designed to undermine Armenia's sovereignty by organizing events, hiring communications consultants, and producing messaging materials. While initially conceived as a humanitarian effort to support the return of Azerbaijanis who left Armenia during the collapse of the Soviet Union, it evolved into a state-directed communication strategy with clear irredentist goals.

It should come as no surprise then that Aliyev cynically uses this type of language to shape public opinion at home, distracting his populace from domestic social and economic problems. He employs an autocratic playbook to foment hyper-nationalism, embedding a narrative within Azerbaijans education system that teaches future generations to hate Armenians and believe they are historical enemies occupying ancient Azerbaijani lands.

Such reckless propaganda is not only dangerous but fundamentally destabilizes the peace process. It weakens the principle of mutual recognition of sovereign borders, which is a foundational basis for any peace treaty. Whats more, Aliyev sends a conflicting and aggressive message when he refers to cities like Yerevan or Armenia's Syunik province as historical Azerbaijani territories, even as official statements from Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry ostensibly engage in peace talks. True peace requires consistent commitment, not rhetorical escalation.

Or put simply, words matter.

However, it is not just Aliyev's rhetoric that cast doubt about his plans for peace, but his actions. Azerbaijan has spent the last five years trying to eradicate Armenian presence in the South Caucasus. The campaign began with the 2020 war over Nagorno-Karabakh

(Artsakh), culminating in the 2023 ethnic cleansing of more than 120,000 Armeniansthe largest displacement of Armenians since the 1915 Armenian Genocide.

Following the takeover, Azerbaijan initiated a systematic campaign of cultural erasure targeting Armenian churches, monasteries, and historical sites.

Furthermore, Azerbaijan's commitment to peace is belied by its continued illegal detention of Armenian political prisoners, including humanitarian Ruben Vardanyan, arrested without due process while trying to leave Nagorno-Karabakh. How can there be peace when innocent Armenians sit in Azeri jails?

Despite these blatant human rights violations, Azerbaijan continues to use its vast financial clout to sway and curry favor with international stakeholders as they turn a blind eye to their crimes. A prime example is its troubling relationship with the Vatican. In the past year, new agreements included substantial Azerbaijani funding to restore holy sites in Rome and Europe. In return, the Vatican has provided Azerbaijan a platform for controversial conferences and events that seek to erase and delegitimize the indigenous roots of Armenians and portray them as foreign to their own ancestral lands.

This type of "caviar diplomacy" demonstrates Azerbaijan's ongoing strategy of leveraging its natural resources for geopolitical influence, challenging the sincerity of its peace commitments.

So, how can Aliyevs use of historical narratives and territorial claims in political discourse significantly impact the peace process?

For starters, it can be perceived as a direct challenge to Armenias sovereignty and internationally recognized borders. Such rhetoric can contribute to an atmosphere of mistrust and suspicion, making it more difficult to achieve breakthroughs in negotiations and potentially increasing the risk of renewed conflict. And it can complicate ongoing negotiations focused on specific issues like border delimitation and regional connectivity.

That is why is hard to take Azerbaijan at face value when they say that they are committed to peace. A lasting peace can only be built on a foundation of mutual respect and a shared commitment to a future that respects people and borders. Based on his words and actions, Aliyev does not sound like a man who wants peace. He sounds like a man who wants Armenia.

Stephan Pechdimaldji is a communications strategist living in the San Francisco Bay Area. He is a first-generation Armenian American and grandson of survivors of the Armenian genocide. You can follow him on X at @spechdimaldji.
'We currently have new proposals worth Rs 1.48 trillion in the pipeline.'

Punjab National Bank (PNB) is witnessing strong momentum across retail, micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME), and corporate loan segments, driven by robust demand in the auto and housing sectors.

The bank is also expanding digital offerings, growing its credit card base, and re-entering the West Asian market with plans to reopen its Dubai office, said Ashok Chandra, managing director and chief executive officer, in an interview with Harsh Kumar/Business Standard in New Delhi.

How is PNB's retail loan segment doing, especially after goods and services tax (GST) rate cuts?

We are seeing strong traction, especially in the auto sector, which is significantly contributing to our business loan portfolio.

From Durga Puja last year till Diwali this year, we have witnessed nearly 40 per cent growth in this segment during the same period.

The housing loan segment has also grown by around 45 per cent. We expect further momentum in retail lending following the recent GST rate cuts.

How do you see growth in the MSME sector?

As of now, we are not seeing any major impact from US tariffs on our MSME borrowers.

We expect around 19-20 per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) growth in this segment. Our overall export exposure to the US market stands at around Rs 4,400 crore, which is not a large portion of our total MSME book, and none of these accounts are under stress.

We are in regular touch with our MSME customers.

However, in agriculture, we have achieved 13 per cent growth in the second quarter, with special focus on self-help groups (SHGs).

How is PNB approaching unsecured lending?

Our unsecured lending portfolio comprises personal loans, education loans, and credit cards. Personal loans are extended only to salaried individuals.

Education loans up to Rs 7.5 lakh are covered under the credit guarantee scheme.

We are focusing strongly on the credit card business as part of our digital transformation.

By November 15, we will enable complete online onboarding. Currently, we have about 650,000 credit card customers, and we aim to reach 1 million by the end of FY26.

We have also entered the supply chain financing space. Within three months, we have built a portfolio of around Rs 3,000 crore, and we plan to scale this up to Rs 10,000 crore by FY26.

We have tied up with leading manufacturing companies to finance their dealers.

How is PNB working on NRI deposits and overseas portfolio?

We have received approval from the RBI to reopen our representative office in Dubai, which was closed in 2018. Dubai is a key hub for our West Asia business covering all seven emirates.

In the next two and a half months, we will apply to the Central Bank of the UAE for operational approval.

There is immense potential in this segment. Our GIFT City operations are also doing well, and our 100 per cent subsidiary in London continues to do good business.

Overall, we expect 15-16 per cent growth in our overseas portfolio.

What are your recovery expectations for this year?

During the second quarter, we achieved recoveries worth Rs 3,900 crore. Our recovery target for FY26 is Rs 16,000 crore, and we expect Rs 4,500 crore in Q3 itself.

We are confident of surpassing our annual target. We are also aiming for overall credit growth of around 11-12 per cent in FY26.

What is the outlook for the corporate loan book?

We currently have new proposals worth Rs 1.48 trillion in the pipeline.

So far, we have already sanctioned Rs 2.68 trillion in FY25 and in the first half of FY26, we have already reached the sanctioned Rs 2.81 trillion under the corporate loan portfolio.

For FY26, we expect to scale this up to Rs 4 trillion.

What steps are being taken to improve customer grievance redressal?

We have deployed a QR-based review system managed centrally at the head office, which has received very positive response.

To get feedback directly from the ground, I personally conduct multiple town halls with employees.

This initiative has helped us identify pain points and enhance customer satisfaction.

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: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
Adani Group said on Friday it will invest around Rs 1 trillion in various sectors of Andhra Pradesh over the next ten years, deepening its commitment in the state where it will partner with Google for an artificial intelligence (AI) hub in Visakhapatnam.

Illustration: Uttam Ghosh

"We have already invested around Rs 40,000 crore across ports, logistics, cement, infrastructure and renewable energy.

"Over the next ten years we are planning to invest Rs 1 trillion in ports, cement, data centres and energy business," said Karan Adani, managing director of Adani Ports & SEZ.

He was speaking at the 30th CII Partnership Summit, which is jointly organised by the Andhra Pradesh government and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), in Visakhapatnam.

Google will invest $15 billion over five years in setting up an AI hub, which will include the country's largest data centre, in partnership with Adani Group.

It will be Googles largest such hub outside the US.

Adani called Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu a visionary who had rewritten the playbook of modern industrial India.

He said state IT minister Nara Lokesh is agile, data-driven, deeply humane, and whose focus on skilling, digital infrastructure, and new-age industries is making Andhra Pradesh Indias fastest-moving startup state.

"The flagship of our commitment is the Vizag tech park.

"We are building one of the worlds largest centres in partnership with Google.

"This is a combined $15 billion vision of sustainable and hi-tech growth.

"Our operations created several direct and indirect jobs.

"We will match your skill, scale and spirit.

"We commit to become the largest investor in Andhra Pradesh's bright future," he said.

Policy alone does not create historyvision does, said Adani, recalling how Naidu transformed Hyderabad into a global tech hub and is now steering Swarna Andhra 2047 with entrepreneurial governance and startup innovation.

Under your captaincy, Andhra Pradesh is ready once again for take-off.

More than 100 international delegates are attending the summit, which has Partners in Progress  Indias Roadmap to Viksit Bharat 2047 as its theme.

The state is targeting investments to the tune of around Rs 10 trillion through the summit, focusing on green energy, information technology, electronics, automobiles, space, defence, and tourism. The summit will cover topics such as green energy, sustainable innovation, and the European investment partnership.
Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles (TMPV) on Friday reported a 13 per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) decline in consolidated revenue from operations for the second quarter of 2025-26 (Q2FY26), largely due to the cyberattack on its subsidiary Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) in late August that forced a shutdown of its manufacturing operations for over five weeks.

Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters

This is TMPVs first results announcement since its demerger from the commercial vehicles business earlier this month.

The inclusion of a notional profit of Rs 82,616 crore from the disposal of discontinued operations (demerger of commercial vehicles business), resulted in the consolidated net profit rising to Rs 76,248 crore in the second quarter.

Before this inclusion, the company incurred a loss of Rs 6,368 crore in this quarter.

JLRs revenue for the quarter declined by 24 per cent Y-o-Y, while its revenue for the first half of FY26 declined 16.3 per cent Y-o-Y.

Other than the cyberattack, the planned phase-out of legacy Jaguar models ahead of the new Jaguar launch also played its part.

From 2026, Jaguar will become an electric vehicle-only brand.

The profit of JLR was dragged down not just by the cyber incident but also due to the ongoing impact of US tariffs, as well as reduced sales.

In light of the challenges faced, JLR has revised its FY26 earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) guidance to 0-2 per cent.

PB Balaji, chief financial officer of the entire Tata Motors group said, It has been a difficult period for the business.

"However, we are committed to emerging from the cyber incident even stronger.

"The demand situation remains challenging globally but domestically there are signs of resurgence.

Shailesh Chandra, managing director and CEO, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, said, Q2FY26 was a landmark quarter for Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles.

"Our agile approach, strong portfolio and impactful marketing helped us drive this growth trajectory.

"With a robust booking pipeline and rising consumer confidence, we are poised to sustain this momentum in H2FY26, guided by our several new launches ahead.

The passenger vehicle segment saw a double-digit year-on-year growth in wholesale volumes and registrations, supported by Tata Motors multi-powertrain portfolio, with CNG and EVs together contributing 45 per cent of total volumes.

EV sales jumped nearly 60 per cent YoY to around 25,000 units.

A reinvigorated demand environment also drove record sales of 60,000 units in September, helping improve revenues and deliver sequential gains in profitability.

Chandra described September and October as blockbuster months, each crossing the 60,000-unit mark and helping Tata secure the number two OEM position in the market.

Inventory levels remain healthy at 27 days, with plans to bring them down further.

Looking ahead, Tata Motors expects its upcoming quarters to be strong, backed by robust festive bookings, upcoming launches such as the Sierra EV, and sustained momentum through the second half.

Nexon was the number 1 model in India, across both September and October.

Tata also recorded its highest ever Harrier and Safari volumes.

We remain very optimistic about the business in India, and fully geared up to deliver a very strong second half of FY26.

"We anticipate healthy demand momentum for the Indian EV industry on the back of reduced GST,  Chandra added.

The company's performance was also impacted due to weaker demand from China.

Due to cyber incidents and US tariff pressures, the company sharply cut its FY26 guidance, lowering its EBIT margin and projecting a free cash outflow of 2.22.5 billion, while indicating that JLR is expected to see a better second half as production normalises.

Tata is also strengthening cybersecurity and rebuilding its systems, acknowledging that a lot of work is currently happening in real time to harden our external interfaces".

The results were announced during the market hours.

The companys stock fell 1.6 per cent ending the days trade at Rs 391.6 per share on BSE.
The new rules allow for a staggered implementation road map, giving companies, data fiduciaries, data principals, and other stakeholders up to 18 months to comply with the administrative guidelines under the DPDP Act.

Kindly note that this illustration generated using ChatGPT has only been posted for representational purposes.

The government on Friday notified the administrative rules under the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, marking India's entry into a select group of countries with a federal digital personal data privacy regime.

Industry and legal experts welcomed the detailed rules, as India's digital ecosystem finally has a clear framework for handling data.

The new rules allow for a staggered implementation road map, giving companies, data fiduciaries, data principals, and other stakeholders up to 18 months to comply with the administrative guidelines under the DPDP Act.

By comparison, consent managers will have up to 12 months to register to act on behalf of users.

The notification of the DPDP Rules also marks the operationalisation of India's privacy law, nearly 14 years after it was first envisioned.

Under the new rules, the ministry of electronics and information technology (Meity) has mandated that all data fiduciaries must seek specific and informed consent of data principals in 'clear and plain language'.

The consent sought will include a detailed and itemised description of the personal data to be processed, along with the specific purpose for which the data fiduciary is collecting it.

Though the government has allowed cross-border transfer of personal data processed by data fiduciaries operating in India, it has specified that such platforms and companies must comply with requirements set by the central government from time to time, particularly if such data is being made available to any foreign state or an entity under that state's control.

This was a contentious issue for several big tech firms that were not in favour of data localisation.

"This is reflective of the geopolitical environment and concerns around India's tech sovereignty. Global companies are likely to push back against any localisation mandates that create operational difficulties," said Aparajita Bharti, founding partner at public policy advocacy body The Quantum Hub.

All companies, social media platforms, and Internet intermediaries that handle users' digital personal data will fall under the category of data fiduciaries.

Users whose personal data is processed by these entities will be referred to as data principals.

Such data fiduciaries must also allow users to easily withdraw their consent at any time, exercise other rights mentioned in the Act, and file complaints with the Data Protection Board (DPB).

"Organisations may need to reassess their consent frameworks to ensure that consent is specific, informed, and clearly distinguishable from standard terms of use that users typically auto-accept," said Harsh Walia, partner at law firm Khaitan & Co.

The new rules give Internet and social media intermediaries, as well as all other companies dealing with users' digital data, up to 18 months to put in place systems that comply with the Act and its administrative rules.

Companies seeking to act as consent managers must register with the DPB within 12 months, according to the rules.

"This deliberate temporal staging enables organisations to undertake impact assessments, restructure data flows, recalibrate vendor governance, and align audit frameworks in a coherent and legally robust manner," said Goldie Dhama, partner at Deloitte.

Companies handling personal data must make reasonable efforts to protect it, whether through encryption, obfuscation, masking, or the use of virtual tokens mapped to the personal data.

To prevent unauthorised access, data fiduciaries must implement systems capable of detecting such access.

In the event of unauthorised access, companies must investigate its cause and document the measures taken to prevent recurrence.

Companies must retain such logs and personal data for at least one year, unless required by law to keep it for an extended period.

In the event of a breach, data fiduciaries will be required to notify all users affected, as well as the DPB, within 72 hours of becoming aware of the violation.

The data fiduciary must inform users of the nature and extent of the breach, when it occurred, its consequences, the mitigation measures being implemented, and any safety steps that users should take.

The DPB must also be notified of the circumstances leading to the breach, the individuals responsible, and the remedial measures undertaken to prevent recurrence.

Ecommerce companies and social media intermediaries with more than 20 million registered users in India, as well as online gaming companies with more than 5 million registered users, must delete users' personal data if they remain inactive for three consecutive years, according to the new rules.

Before deleting such personal data, these intermediaries must give users a 48-hour notice, informing them the data will be deleted unless they log in to the platform within this period.

Significant data fiduciaries, or platforms with more than 5 million registered users in India, will be required to undertake an annual audit and a Data Protection Impact Assessment to ensure continued compliance with the DPDP Act.

These platforms will also be required to verify annually that their technical measures, including algorithms and software, are not "likely to pose a risk" to users' rights.

A new era begins

2011: Group of experts on digital privacy law formed; report submitted in 2012

2017: IT ministry forms panel; report submitted in 2018

2019: Personal Data Protection Bill tabled, referred to joint committee

2021: Joint panel submits report, suggests 98 changes

2022: Bill withdrawn, fresh consultations proposed

2023: Digital Personal Data Protection Bill tabled, gets Parliament nod

2025: Govt introduces draft rules in Jan, releases final rules in November

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff
'This election was won because of Nitish Kumar's face and his policies.'

IMAGE: A poster of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar displayed outside the Janata Dal-United office in Patna. Photograph: ANI Photo

"The lion's share of credit goes to Nitish Kumar, along with the BJP's field management and Prime Minister Modi's brand," says Dr Kartikeya Batra, assistant professor at the Azim Premji University and a Visiting Fellow at the CVoter Foundation.

Dr Batra holds a PhD in economics from the University of Maryland (College Park) and a master's in international affairs and policy from the Fletcher School at Tufts University.

One of the most incisive commentators of this election, he spent time in Bihar during the campaign. In a two-part interview to Rediff's Archana Masih , he discusses the reasons for the NDA sweep, the AGC (Age Caste Gender) Effect and why Nitish Babu is a hero with a formidable legacy.

What are your primary takeaways from this verdict?

Nitish Kumar and the BJP have swept. It's a sweep for the NDA across regions -- and a rout for the Mahagathbandhan with no saving grace.

Even in Seemanchal where the demography would have favoured the Mahagatbandhan, the AIMIM has done well.

It is a repeat of the 2010 election. The scenario changed in 2015 because the RJD (Rashtriya Janata Dal) and JD-U (Janata Dal-United) fought the election together.

People often misread and misanalyse the 2020 election because they look only at the aggregate vote shares. The vote share of both alliances were very close -- about 37.2% each. But if you look at the alliances in today's context, the Mahagathbandhan actually began with a 4 percentage point deficit.

Not only did they fail to close that gap, the gap has now widened.

The Mahagathbandhan might still end up at about 38% while the NDA appears to have gained immensely to 47%-48%.

In terms of vote share, this is fundamentally an election in which the NDA gained. The lion's share of credit goes to Nitish Kumar along with the BJP's field management and the Prime Minister Modi's brand.

But largely, it's an election won because of Nitish Kumar's face and his policies.

IMAGE: Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh present a garland to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as Bharatiya Janata Party supporters celebrate the Bihar assembly election results at the BJP's national headquarters in New Delhi, November 14, 2025. Photograph: Adnan Abidi/Reuters

Can you expand on that thought about why you think this is Nitish Kumar's victory?

After 2005, Nitish Kumar very carefully cultivated a vote bank for himself. This vote bank was not his own caste; it was not his own gender.

It was the Extremely Backward Castes, Mahadalits and women.

He took three leaderless groups in Bihar, and became their leader.

Nitish Kumar's own caste [Kurmi] is 2.5 per cent. We all know caste is an important factor in Bihar. Caste politics was way more relevant back then, than today -- and Nitish Kumar built a political base almost entirely outside his caste.

Even if you symbolically add the Koeri caste, you get to only 7%. A leader of a 7% caste bloc can't aspire to be chief minister on caste arithmetic alone.

The composition of three largely leaderless groups were:

EBCs: About 36% of the population (Hindus: 27-28%; the rest Muslim EBCs). These are very small caste groups -- Nonia, Chandravanshi, Bind, Mallah, Chaurasia. Nitish executed a bunch of policies for them.

Mahadalits: He carved out this category, separating them from the Paswan community (about 5%, with late Ram Vilas Paswan as their leader). He argued they needed special attention and built a set of welfare schemes around them.

Women: His biggest and most durable investment. He cultivated them very carefully providing cycles and uniforms for girls, alcohol prohibition, reservations for women in panchayats, recruiting more female police personnel.

Once he came to power, the first few things he did was constructing roads, improving law and order and electricity. These were visible changes, low-hanging fruits, but the fear of the Yadav Raj was such that middle-aged people, 35+, are still thankful.

These women remember the contrast with the Lalu era. These groups -- EBCs, Mahadalits and women -- were the most vulnerable during the Lalu-Rabri era, far more than upper castes who had the wherewithal to overcome this suffering.

This is why Nitish's governance record still carries emotional weight for the 35+ generation.

In this election, there was anxiety that the BJP might sideline Nitish as CM or that his ill-health might cost him. That seems to have produced a consolidated vote for him, which also benefited the BJP and LJP (Chirag Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party).

Interestingly, women voters are almost party-agnostic.

There was some doubt on the ground that the BJP may suffer because of poor ticket distribution and a general sense of fatigue amongst voters, but the BJP's own field management along with Nitish Kumar's goodwill, especially among women triumphed.

Women see Nitish Kumar even in the party symbol of the other parties that constitute the NDA alliance -- lotus, helicopter, teer-dhanush, cylinder, kadhai.

They saw him everywhere.

Men care more about candidate selection, outsider versus insider tag, and ticket distribution, but women ignore all this.

For them, Nitish represents safety, welfare and continuity, and Modi represents ration and housing.

This combined appeal was formidable and I won't be surprised if eventually we observe that even some Yadav and Muslim women voted for them.

We even saw this cross-cutting effect in communities like the Mallahs. Male Mallahs shifted to the Mahagathbandhan for reasons of caste or hopes of jobs. Female Mallahs stayed with Nitish.

Basically, Nitish Kumar has blocked 50% of the core women vote and reduced the scope of expansion beyond the Muslim-Yadav base for Tejashwi.

This is why I call this election the AGC effect -- Age, Gender, Caste.

People will play up the narrative of Rs 10,000 disbursed by Nitish Kumar under the rozgar yojana for women just before the election. It was an important factor which oiled a machine that had been set up 15 years back.

If you did not have that machine to begin with, you would not have been able to oil it.

Nitish built a maternal welfare state over the last 10 to 15 years -- and the latest Rs 10,000 scheme further mobilised women voters.

IMAGE: Women in Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's village, Kalyan Bigha, in Nalanda celebrate NDA leads in the Bihar assembly election 2025. Photograph: ANI Video Grab

So the hero of the verdict is Nitish Kumar?

Absolutely, I have no doubt about it -- and this is not because of the Rs 10,000 scheme to women or his governance record in the last 5 years.

He is basically the Amitabh Bachchan of Bihar politics. He has built a brand over time.

Why do people love Amitabh Bachchan? It is because of his legacy -- and his latest movie is another reason to love him.

Nitish Kumar has firmly secured his place in history.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
'If Nitish Kumar were to depart from this alliance, it would signal substantial instability in central government politics.'

IMAGE: 'Jeeta hai Bihar ki mahilao ka vishwaas...Jeeta hai NDA, jeeta hai Bihar (The victory is the trust of Bihar's women, The NDA has won, Bihar has won)': The Janata Dal-United tweeted after the National Democratic Alliance's leads crosses the 200 mark in the Bihar assembly election, November 14, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

Despite the National Democratic Alliance's landslide victory in Bihar that has reduced the Mahagathbandhan to a mere 30-32 seats in the 243-member assembly, the Bharatiya Janata Party may not be able to claim the chief minister's post even if it emerges as the largest party.

Professor D M Diwakar warns that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are unlikely to risk upsetting Nitish Kumar's applecart, given the fragile arithmetic supporting the BJP-led government at the Centre.

With the BJP holding only 240 MPs in the Lok Sabha and relying on 12 JD-U MPs and 15 from the Telugu Desam Party for a majority, any instability in Bihar could trigger seismic waves in national politics.

While a BJP state president provocatively declared his party would claim the chief ministership, notably neither Modi nor Shah echoed this sentiment during the campaign.

Professor Diwakar, Director, Development Research Institute in Madhubani, in the concluding part of his interview with Prasanna D Zore/Rediff credits the stunning outcome entirely to Nitish Kumar's personal credibility -- a leader who has remained corruption-free despite 20 years in power -- rather than the BJP's organisational strength in Bihar.

Do you anticipate that Bihar will see a BJP chief minister if the BJP emerges as the largest single party?

IMAGE: BJP supporters celebrate the NDA's leads at the party office in Patna, November 14, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

The earlier pronouncement this year by Prime Minister Modi and the BJP's national leadership was Constitutionally problematic, and when Nitish Kumar expressed displeasure with that approach, he began demonstrating independence in electoral politics and other matters vis-a-vis the BJP.

He declined to share platforms at numerous venues where Prime Minister Modi was scheduled to appear. Ultimately, at one particular meeting, Nitish Kumar refused to attend altogether, and only his cutout was displayed as a symbolic representation.

Indeed, even during the manifesto release, Nitish Kumar chose not to speak. He was allocated merely a few seconds. That constituted another significant point of contention.

Subsequently, when the BJP leadership recognised after the first phase of polling that matters were not proceeding favourably, the BJP state president issued a provocative statement declaring that a BJP leader would become chief minister. However, I observed that Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Modi refrained from making any such pronouncement.

That is precisely my question -- do you perceive a substantial possibility of a BJP chief minister?

There exists that possibility, certainly. Now that the Mahagathbandhan has been reduced to such insignificant numbers that they cannot join hands with Nitish Kumar for form a government, there is every possibility that Nitish Kumar will not retain the chief ministership.

But then Nitish Kumar has always been a wily and unpredictable character in Bihari politics and one can never know.

Do you still believe Nitish Kumar could engineer a political realignment?

He retains that capability, but only if he can independently form a government. He would execute such a manoeuvre only if the arithmetic permits.

However, reports from Bihar suggest that Nitish Kumar is unwell...

No, absolutely not. This narrative was deliberately constructed. This narrative was manufactured to suggest that Nitish Kumar had become politically irrelevant.

Yet ultimately, the BJP had to acknowledge that without Nitish Kumar, they could not contest this election successfully. Therefore, they were compelled to designate Nitish Kumar as the face of the electoral campaign initially, and subsequently had to declare him as the chief ministerial candidate.

So even if the BJP emerges as the largest single party, it will be Nitish Kumar as chief minister, given the imperatives you have just articulated?

That depends. If Nitish Kumar can identify an alternative arrangement that allows him to achieve the magic number -- that is, 122 seats (in the 243-member assembly) -- independently, he will not permit the BJP to assume power.

If the arithmetic allows for such a scenario, then there will not be a BJP chief minister?

Precisely. Consider that during the previous government formation, following his return to the NDA, Nitish Kumar initially declined to become chief minister, and the BJP in fact reiterated that Nitish Kumar would be chief minister despite the BJP possessing greater numerical strength (in 2020).

Modi may not so casually risk upsetting the Nitish Kumar applecart in Bihar because there is another consideration: If Nitish Kumar were to depart from this alliance, it would signal substantial instability in central government politics (12 JD-U MPs along with 15 from the TDP support the BJP-led Modi government; the BJP has only 240 MPs in the Lok Sabha, short of the 272 majority).

The BJP will not countenance such a risk. Despite potentially emerging as the largest party, they will endeavour to ensure that national political equations remain undisturbed. The BJP may well take that factor into consideration.

The Opposition has already begun alleging electoral malpractice as the reason for their rout. They are attributing these results to electronic voting machine tampering and the revision of electoral rolls just before the elections. How do you assess that charge?

IMAGE: Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav during the election campaign in Bihar. Photograph: ANI Photo

That remains genuinely mysterious because I did not observe any wave on the ground that would justify the NDA achieving this magnitude of electoral victory.

What was your assessment at the conclusion of campaigning?

My assessment was that the Mahagathbandhan would form the government. That was my evaluation following the second phase of polling. This was not merely my individual assessment; numerous political analysts and observers in this region maintained that nothing could prevent the Mahagathbandhan from assuming power this time.

However, given the manner in which results are now emerging through the counting process, it is simply incomprehensible.

When was the previous occasion that Bihar witnessed such results, where the Opposition has been decimated?

I do not believe Bihar has ever previously experienced a situation where the Opposition has been so comprehensively obliterated.

Would you credit Mr Nitish Kumar and the BJP's leadership for this extraordinary outcome?

Nitish Kumar, yes. The BJP, no.

Why do you distinguish between them? Why credit Nitish Kumar but not the BJP?

IMAGE: Janata Dal-United supporters celebrate the NDA's leads in Patna on November 14, 2025 in the Bihar assembly election. Photograph: ANI Photo

Consider that even after twenty years of continuous governance, Nitish Kumar has never personally been implicated in any corruption allegation. This is no small achievement.

To remain actively engaged in politics as chief minister for two decades and yet remain free from any substantive allegation of corruption represents a remarkable accomplishment, and that credit belongs entirely to Nitish Kumar. It is universally acknowledged; no one can dispute this fact.

Secondly, there exists no significant leadership within the BJP in Bihar who commands substantial popular appeal. There is no leader of Nitish Kumar's stature, or even half his stature, within the state BJP.

I attribute this again to Nitish Kumar's strategic political acumen: He remained in power, he maintained his alliance with the BJP, but he never permitted the BJP to cultivate leadership of such calibre that could potentially replace him.

At present, as the BJP's numbers increase, if Nitish Kumar does not retain the option of achieving the magic number independently, he may be compelled to yield, and someone else from the BJP may assume leadership.

Do you consider these elections to have been free and fair?

Based on my ground-level observations, when I cast my own vote, I did not observe anything irregular. However, when I examine these results, I cannot state with certainty that they are entirely fair and representative of the sentiment I witnessed during my extensive field visits.
IMAGE: Chirag Paswan with Nitish Kumar. Photographs: ANI Photo

Unlike his National Democratic Alliance allies who rushed to the spotlight soon after the NDA won a historic mandate in the 2025 Bihar assembly election, Nitish Kumar stayed away from the public eye on Friday, November 14.

The first glimpse of the victor surfaced when Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan -- who had targeted him during the 2020 assembly election -- met him on Saturday.

Paswan, whose party contested this election as part of the NDA -- and not independently as it did in 2020, then cutting mainly into Janata Dal-United votes and trimming the number of JD-U seats -- said representatives of his Lok Janshakti party (Ram Vilas) met Nitish Kumar to congratulate him on the NDA's triumph and discussed the formation of the next government in the state.

"I am grateful to the central leadership of the alliance," Paswan said. "The NDA placed trust in our party, which had no MLA in the Bihar assembly."

The LJP(RV) contested 28 assembly seats in the state and won 19.

"In 2020, many were responsible for the LJP(RV)'s poll debacle. I fought to resurrect the party."

Paswan described his meeting with Nitish Kumar as "cordial and constructive." Nitish Kumar's experience and administrative capabilities, he added, will play a crucial role in shaping Bihar's future.

'I conveyed my warm wishes to Nitish Kumarji and expressed confidence that under his leadership, the NDA government will continue to deliver on its promises,' Paswan tweeted.

Nitish Kumar, according to officials present, thanked Paswan for his support and acknowledged the contribution of all NDA allies in securing the mandate.

IMAGE: Chirag Paswan arrives at the LJP (RV) office in Patna, November 15, 2025, after the NDA's victory in the Bihar assembly elections.

IMAGE: Chirag Paswan speaks to the media in Patna.

Photographs curated by Anant Salvi/Rediff

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
The Uttar Pradesh government has moved to withdraw charges against all those accused in the 2015 mob lynching of Mohammad Akhlaq in Greater Noida's Dadri, a case that had sparked nationwide outrage.

IMAGE: Relatives mourn the death of farmer Mohammad Akhlaq at his home in UP's Bisara village. Akhlaq was dragged out of his home and beaten to death by a mob on September 28, 2015 upon hearing rumors that the family was eating beef. Photograph: PTI Photo Archives

Additional District Government Counsel Bhag Singh Bhati told PTI on Saturday that the state has sent a formal request for the withdrawal of prosecution.

"A letter has been received from the government regarding the withdrawal of the case against all the accused in the Akhlaq murder case. The application has been submitted before the Surajpur court and will be heard on December 12," Bhati said.

Advocate Yusuf Saifi, who represents the Akhlaq family, said he had not yet seen the official documents.

"I have only heard about it. I will be able to comment after examining the documents before or on the date of the hearing," he said.

Akhlaq, 52, a resident of Bisada village in Greater Noida, was dragged out of his home and beaten to death by a mob on September 28, 2015, after announcements over a loudspeaker allegedly claimed he had slaughtered a cow and stored beef in his refrigerator. His son, Danish, sustained serious injuries while trying to save him.

Akhlaq's wife Ikraman lodged an FIR the same night at the Jarcha police station, naming 10 people and accusing four to five unidentified men as well. Akhlaq and Danish were taken to a private hospital in Noida, where Akhlaq was declared dead, and Danish was later referred to the Army R&R Hospital in Delhi.

The case is currently pending before the district court in Surajpur, Greater Noida, a decade after the incident.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the people of Bihar have rejected the Congress, which has become a Muslim League-Maoist combination, and the Opposition that spewed the poison of casteism.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi being garlanded by Union Minister of Jal Shakti, CR Patil and Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi during his interaction with Bihar community at Surat Airport, in Surat, November 15, 2025. Photograph: Narendra Modi Photo Gallery/ANI Photo

Taking a swipe at Rahul Gandhi, he said even the Congress' nationalist leaders who had worked with former prime ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi were sad due to the actions of the namdar.

Modi was speaking at a programme organised by Bihar natives living in Gujarat's Surat city to felicitate him for the landslide victory of the National Democratic Alliance in the assembly polls in the eastern state.

He said the Congress' spate of electoral defeats in the last decade is a matter of introspection for that party.

The country has already rejected this 'Muslim League-Maoist Congress' -- MMC. Many nationalist leaders from the Congress who once worked with Indiraji and Rajivji are also unhappy with the actions of the 'namdar', said the PM, hinting at Rahul Gandhi.

The PM said many Congress leaders have started saying that it is now difficult to save the party.

The NDA decimated the Mahagathbandhan, an alliance of Congress, RJD and other parties, in the Bihar assembly elections, the results of which were declared on Friday, winning over 200 seats in the 243-member House. The Congress won only six seats.

That those who ruled for 50-60 years end up like this in a decade or two is clearly a matter of introspection for them, said the PM.

He credited the NDA's sweeping victory to the MY -- 'Mahila' and 'Yuva' (women and youth) -- voters of Bihar.

Without taking names, Modi said some political leaders who are out on bail tried hard to win the election through caste-based politics.

These 'jamanati' (out on bail) politicians in Bihar used all their energy to spread the poison of casteism. They thought this would be enough to achieve victory. The Bihar elections have completely rejected that poison of casteism. This is a very bright sign for the country, said Modi.

All sections of society in all regions of Bihar gave unanimous support to the NDA, he said, adding that there is a massive 10 percent difference in vote share between the winning coalition and the Opposition in Bihar.

Out of 38 seats dominated by the Dalit community, the NDA won 34 of them. It shows that the Dalit community rejected the Opposition, he said.

In Bihar, 'Waqfs' (permanent dedication of property for religious or charitable purposes in Islamic law) were created by illegally occupying land and seizing houses, he claimed. In Tamil Nadu, villages that are thousands of years old were declared Waqf properties, the prime minister said.

Since concerns had been raised across the country, the Centre passed the Waqf law in Parliament recently, he said.

During the Bihar elections, these jamanati politicians and their associates publicly tore up the Waqf bill and declared that if they won, they would not allow the law to be implemented. The people of Bihar have also completely rejected this communal poison, said the PM.

Modi said since the Congress is unable to explain the reasons for the defeat to its allies or to its own party members, they have chosen the easy way by blaming the EVMs (Electronic Voting Machines), the Election Commission (EC) and the voter list revision.

They have found a way to make excuses. This excuse may keep them afloat for a while, but their cadre will not accept them for long, said Modi. The Congress' priority is neither this country nor its people, and its future, he said.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has been alleging vote chori in state polls and accusing the EC of colluding with the BJP to ensure the party's victory.

Modi claimed that even some young Congress MPs or those from the Opposition INDIA bloc fear that their careers will end as they don't get a chance to speak because a leader keeps talking about locking Parliament.

He said the people of Bihar did not like the way CM Nitish Kumar was insulted.

"You must have seen the scenes in the Bihar assembly over the past two or three years. It became a fashion to insult Nitish Kumar. Lewd words were used for him, similar to those uttered by the other 'namdar' leader in Parliament, breaking all decorum," said the PM, without naming anyone.
In a sign of a possible strain within the Maha Vikas Aghadi, Congress leader Varsha Gaikwad on Saturday said the party is preparing to contest the upcoming polls to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation independently.

IMAGE: Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad. Photograph: @VarshaEGaikwad/X

Addressing a party meeting, Mumbai Congress president Gaikwad called on party workers to resolve to "unfurl the Congress flag in the BMC".

"We must ensure the election of Congress corporators... prepare for all 227 seats," she said.

Elections to the BMC, the richest civic body in the country, are likely to be held in January 2026.

Gaikwad made the statement in the presence of senior leaders, including AICC general secretary Ramesh Chennithala and Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal.

The Congress's stand to go solo has come amid the possibility of Shiv Sena-UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray and his cousin, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader, Raj Thackeray, joining hands for the civic elections.

A section of the Congress is averse to having Raj Thackeray in an alliance, given his aggressive stand against North Indian migrants.

Gaikwad said that earlier, when reporters asked Chennithala if the party would go it alone in the BMC polls, he had maintained that such decisions were left to the local units.

"We have conveyed to him (Chennithala) that Congress leaders and workers want to go alone, along with like-minded parties and groups," she said, adding that office-bearers have been briefed on the organisational preparations.

The Lok Sabha MP urged party workers to hit the ground for the next two months and remain alert about the voters' list.

The Congress aligned with its long-time rival, Shiv Sena, in 2019 to form the MVA, along with the NCP. The split in the Shiv Sena and NCP in 2022 and 2023 saw their rival factions ally with the ruling BJP.

In 2024, the Congress could only manage to get two of the six Lok Sabha seats in Mumbai and 10 out of 36 assembly seats, with Shiv Sena-UBT having an upper hand in the seat-sharing.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra minister and Bharatiya Janata Party leader Ashish Shelar mocked the Congress' statement of fighting the Mumbai civic polls alone and asked if the grand old party had the guts or vote base to take such a decision.

"Does the Congress have the guts to go solo in the BMC elections? Are there any leaders, party workers or even votes left for the Congress?" Shelar asked while speaking to reporters.

"One needs courage to fight elections independently and it remains to be seen whether the Congress possesses it. The Congress' image has been weakened and it lacks the strength to take such a stand," added Shelar, a BJP MLA from the metropolis.

Queried on the Congress announcing that it would fight civic elections without tying up with its MVA and INDIA bloc ally Shiv Sena-UBT, Shelar said the Mumbai Congress had traditionally contested civic polls against the Sena.

NCP-SP spokesperson Amol Matele said the Congress' move would split Opposition votes and ultimately benefit the BJP.

"The Congress on its own? Then it is Diwali for the BJP in Mumbai. By splitting votes, whom are they (Congress) trying to benefit," Matele questioned.

The Opposition alliance should unitedly fight Mumbai civic polls in order to defeat the BJP-led Mahayuti, he added.
Former poll strategist Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj Party, which failed to open its account in the Bihar assembly, on Saturday claimed that a section of its voters ended up siding with the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance "out of fear of return of jungle raj under the Rashtriya Janata Dal".

IMAGE: Jan Suraaj Party chief Prashant Kishor addresses a press conference during Bihar assembly elections, in Patna. Photograph: ANI Photo

Addressing a press conference in Patna, a day after the poll results were announced, its national president Uday Singh also claimed "polarisation" took place in the Seemanchal region in the aftermath of the blast near Red Fort in Delhi, a day before the November 11 polling was held in the area.

"I can say there was fear of the return of jungle raj under the RJD. Although I am not saying that there has been any jungle raj, the fear was there. Many people, who would have given us a chance, ended up voting for the NDA out of that fear," said Singh, the former BJP MP.

He added, "Let me make a distinction here. I am saying people had a problem with RJD, not with the Congress or other constituents of the opposition Mahagathbandhan".

Singh, a former MP from Purnea, also said another factor came into play after the Delhi blast that claimed the lives of at least 13 people.

"I was in the Seemanchal region and the incident did lead to polarisation of votes," he said.

He also lamented, "Our Muslim brethren did not repose enough trust in us. This was despite the fact that we have been reaching out to them. But we are sure they will support us in the long run".

The party was said to have caught the imagination, especially of upper caste youth, by raising pressing issues such as unemployment, migration and the dearth of industries in the state.

However, this did not translate into enough votes, despite an energetic campaign by Kishor and his team, and the party's vote share, according to Singh, stood at a paltry "four per cent".

The Jan Suraaj leader also said, "We are disappointed with the outcome of the assembly polls, but not upset. Though we have not won even a single seat, we will keep opposing the ruling NDA."

He claimed that "since June, till polls were announced, Rs 40,000 crore were splurged" by the Nitish Kumar government to "purchase" votes of the people through public money".

"The scale was unprecedented. Even money raised through a World Bank loan of Rs 14,000 crore has been diverted for doles and freebies," alleged Singh, who, incidentally, is the younger brother of former Finance Commission chairman N K Singh.

Referring to Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, under which Rs 10,000 each was transferred to the bank accounts of women in the state, he said, "It must have been for the first time that people kept getting the money till a day before voting took place, despite the model code of conduct. This was enough to sway women who may have been hand-to-mouth."

Singh said the Jan Suraaj is now waiting to see "how the government will transfer the remaining Rs 2 lakh that it has promised to the accounts of women in the state".

He also claimed that the space for opposition remained there in Bihar, despite the landslide victory of the NDA, which has "polled less than 50 per cent of total votes".

Responding to a query on whether Prashant Kishor would remain active in politics as the Janata Dal-United won more than 25 seats, Singh said, "You should ask this question to Kishor only".

Kishor had previously claimed that he would quit politics if Nitish Kumar's JD-U won more than 25 seats. The party bagged 85 seats in the assembly polls.

Singh, however, added, "We still believe that the NDA, including the JD-U, would have been decimated had public money not been splurged to buy out votes. Please remember that it was not until the Jan Suraaj Party promised Rs 2,000 old age pension that the government raised the amount from Rs 700 to Rs 1,100 per month".

He also made light of the "vote theft" charge by the INDIA bloc, most notably the Congress, saying, "We believe names deleted during SIR were mostly of those who were dead or had migrated to other places. Even if there were a few anomalies, these could not have been on a scale large enough to make much of a difference".

The ruling NDA decimated the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar on Friday to retain power, reaffirming Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's enduring appeal and dealing a body blow to the Congress and ally RJD.

The massive scale of the victory of the National Democratic Alliance can be gauged from the fact that its two main constituents -- the BJP and the JD-U -- clocked a nearly 85 per cent strike rate in 101 seats each they had contested.

The alliance secured a "200 paar" win for a three-fourths majority in the 243-member Bihar assembly with the BJP emerging as the single largest party.
A day after facing a severe drubbing in Bihar, the Congress on Saturday questioned the role of the Election Commission in the poll process while its top leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, went into a huddle to discuss the poll outcome.

IMAGE: Rahul Gandhi's Bihar poll campaign against the BJP had revolved around his vote theft allegations. Photograph: ANI Photo

Kharge and Gandhi were joined by AICC general secretary (Organisation) K C Venugopal, party treasurer Ajay Maken and AICC Bihar in-charge Krishna Allavaru, sources said.

According to the sources, the leaders met to discuss the Congress' poor performance in Bihar, where the party won only six of the 61 seats it contested, its second-worst show in the state after 2010, when it won only four seats.

Gandhi did not speak to the media persons after the meeting, as the leaders of the Mahagathbandhan, of which the Congress is a part, remained in a state of disbelief after the NDA swept the polls.

Asked about the Bihar poll outcome and the party's poor performance, Venugopal sought to put the entire blame on the Election Commission, alleging that the entire poll process is questionable and there is no transparency. The party would soon analyse the result and would come out with concrete proof in the next few weeks, he said.

"This result that has come from Bihar is unbelievable for all of us. This is not only for Congress. The entire Bihar people are not believing it and also our alliance partners. We discussed with all of them; they are not believing it," Venugopal said.

"Because, a 90 per cent plus strike rate for a political party - which has not happened in Indian history. We are doing a thorough analysis; we are collecting data from across Bihar. Within one or two weeks, we will come out with concrete proof," he told reporters.

Alleging that the process of electioneering is "completely questionable", he said the party leaders have been continuously raising the issue during electioneering.

"The Election Commission is totally one-sided. Whatever they are doing, there is no transparency at all, and therefore, this process is questionable. Anyway, we will collect all data from everywhere from entire Bihar and then present the facts," he said.

Asked about Gandhi's comments calling the election "not fair", Venugopal said, "We have been talking about the Election Commission (role) and we talked about this during the Haryana elections - that the Haryana election is rigged".

"We have come out with evidence and have the Election Commission question our evidence," he asked.

"On Bihar polls also, we will come with concrete proof," he said.

On Friday, Gandhi said the Bihar election result was surprising. The election was not fair from the very beginning, and that is why the party could not achieve anything much, he claimed.

Gandhi also said the Congress and the INDIA bloc would conduct an in-depth review of the results.

The Congress had also claimed that the election results in Bihar without doubt reflect "vote chori on a gigantic scale - masterminded by the PM, the HM, and the Election Commission".

Rahul Gandhi's poll campaign against the BJP had revolved around his "Vote Chori"(vote theft) allegations.
The Delhi police detained three people, including two doctors from Haryana's Al Falah University, in connection with the blast near the Red Fort, officials said on Saturday.

IMAGE: Forensic Science Laboratory team investigates the site where the blast occurred in a Hyundai i20 car near the Red Fort Metro station, in New Delhi. Photograph: Naveen Sharma/ANI Photo

The detentions and fresh criminal cases come amid an escalating multi-agency probe into the Red Fort blast that claimed 13 lives and the activities of individuals linked to the university.

A police team also visited the Okhla office of the university on Saturday to seek details related to those under scanner.

The police also detained two doctors -- Mohammad and Mustakim -- from Al-Falah University, who were known to Dr Umar Nabi, the driver of the Hyundai i20 car that exploded near the Red Fort on Monday.

The detentions were made during coordinated raids in Dhauj, Nuh and adjoining areas late Friday by the Special Cell and the NIA, officials said.

Sources said Mohammad and Mustakim were allegedly in touch with Dr Muzammil Ganaie, who has been arrested in connection with the probe into an alleged "white collar terror module". Both were also close associates of Umar.

Initial questioning revealed that one of the doctors was in Delhi on the day of the blast to appear for an interview at AIIMS, they said.

Their statements are being verified to establish the extent of their association with Ganaie and their possible role in the wider conspiracy, officials added.

Another man, identified as Dinesh alias Dabbu, has also been detained for selling fertilisers without a licence.

It has emerged that the members of the terror module had pooled around Rs 26 lakh to buy explosive substances and spent Rs 3 lakh out of it to purchase NPK fertiliser, which is commonly used to make bombs.

It is being probed whether Dinesh sold the fertiliser to the suspects and if his activities extended beyond the illegal trade, officials said.

Police teams have also questioned a tea seller in Wazirpur Industrial Area, where Umar halted for 10-?15 minutes before the explosion. The seller told reporters he remembered a masked man sitting briefly at the stall.

"The police asked if he had tea or stayed for long. We don't notice every customer. They showed CCTV footage," he said after being released.

Investigators have also sought visitor records from a mosque near Ramlila Maidan on Asaf Ali Road, where Umar was seen in CCTV footage hours before the blast.

A detailed log has been prepared of every vehicle that entered the Sunehri Masjid parking zone during the three hours when the car remained there before the explosion, police sources said. The list includes vehicle numbers, timings and ownership details.

A Delhi police team and a bomb detection squad are stationed at the parking area and are checking all vehicles that have remained there since the blast.

Cars present at the time of the explosion are being examined first. Once cleared, they are being returned to the owners after verification.

Investigators are showing Umar's photograph to drivers and vehicle owners to verify whether he met or interacted with anyone while the car was parked.

Earlier, an FIR under criminal conspiracy sections had been registered by the Delhi Police Special Cell to investigate the larger plot behind the explosion.

The initial UAPA case has since been transferred to the National Investigation Agency, officials said.

Investigators have also obtained CCTV footage from inside the Red Fort Metro station that captures the moments immediately before and after the explosion at the traffic signal outside.

The visuals show routine commuter activity when, abruptly, the station shakes violently at the exact moment the blast occurred. Objects rattle and passengers are visibly jolted as the tremor passes through the concourse.

Some commuters are seen instinctively rushing further inside the station, seeking safety as the magnitude of the blast becomes apparent.

One more CCTV has emerged from Faridabad, where Umar is seen taking out his phone from a small bag and asking someone to put his phone on charge.

"In view of the high alert, till now about 140 mosques, 1700 tenants, 40 fertiliser and seed shops, about 200 guesthouses/hotels/inns, about 100 second-hand car buyers/sellers and more than 500 people of Jammu and Kashmir have been checked," said Yashpal Singh, spokesperson of Faridabad police.

Meanwhile, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation reopened two entry gates --? number two and three -- of the Red Fort Metro station nearly four days after they were shut as a precautionary measure following the explosion. "The gates are now open for commuters," the DMRC said in a post on X.
An accidental explosion on Friday, November 14, night ripped through the Nowgam police station in Srinagar killing nine people and injuring 27 others.

The blast occurred while authorities were extracting samples from a large cache of explosives confiscated in the 'white-collar' terror module case.

IMAGE: A view of the damaged Nowgam police station. Photograph: ANI Photo

IMAGE: The victims' coffins, here and below. Photograph: Umar Ganie for Rediff

Photograph: Umar Ganie for Rediff

Jammu and Kashmir Police Special Operations Group personnel on the way to the Nowgam police station, here and below. Photograph: Umar Ganie for Rediff

Photograph: Umar Ganie for Rediff

Photograph: Umar Ganie for Rediff

Photograph: Umar Ganie for Rediff

IMAGE: J&K Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat addresses a media conference. Photograph: Umar Ganie for Rediff

IMAGE: Security personnel stand guard outside the police station, here and below. Photograph: ANI Photo

Photograph: ANI Photo

IMAGE: Central Reserve Police Force personnel deployed at the blast site, here and below. Photograph: ANI Photo

Photograph: ANI Photo

Photograph: ANI Photo

IMAGE: Security forces arrive at the blast site. Photograph: ANI Photo

IMAGE: Family members of the deceased and injured at the site. Photograph: ANI Photo

IMAGE: Shattered glass due to the impact of the blast. Photograph: ANI Photo

Photographs curated by Anant Salvi/Rediff

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
The Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Memorial Medical College in Kanpur has removed Dr Shaheen Sayeed's name from its pharmacology department board after her name emerged during the ongoing Delhi blast investigation, a senior official said on Saturday.

IMAGE: Police officers and forensic technicians work at the site of the blast in a Hyundai i20 car near Gate 1 of the Red Fort metro station in Delhi, November 10, 2025. Photograph: Reuters/ANI Photo

The Indian Medical Association's Uttar Pradesh chapter has also begun the process to revoke the lifetime membership of Dr Sayeed.

The official, requesting anonymity, said the college decided to remove her from the board "as a precautionary measure" following inputs by the Delhi Police and the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). It acted promptly to prevent any "misidentification or reputational impact," the official added.

Dr Sayeed headed the department from September 1, 2012, to December 31, 2013 and was succeeded by Dr Pooja Agarwal on January 1, 2014, another official confirmed.

Teams of the ATS and the National Investigation Agency visited the GSVM campus on Friday and again on Saturday, inspecting the pharmacology department and seeking details about Dr Sayeed and individuals who may have remained in contact, officials said.

Investigators also reviewed selected departmental documents, they said.

IMA's Kanpur secretary, Dr Shalini Mohan, told PTI that the branch met on Friday and unanimously recommended expulsion, adding, "A formal letter was sent on November 13, urging permanent cancellation of her membership."

She said the final decision lies with the central body of IMA. "I have no confirmed information yet on whether they(the central body) have terminated her membership," she added.

Dr Sayeed's alleged role "amounted to anti-national and terror-related conduct," Mohan said.

A high-intensity explosion ripped through a slow-moving car at a traffic signal near the Red Fort metro station on Monday evening, killing 13 people and injuring several others.

According to Delhi Police, the blast is now being probed by the NIA as a terror attack.
Aynuddin Muradi has been a citizen of Kazakhstan for years, but he now faces deportation to his country of birth, Afghanistan.

Kazakh authorities in May stripped the 27-year-old of his citizenship on the grounds that he is not ethnic Kazakh, a claim he denies.

Muradi, who is appealing the decision, gave up his Afghan nationality when he gained Kazakh citizenship in 2019. Citizens of the Central Asian country are not allowed to hold dual nationality.

Now, Muradi -- whose child was born in Kazakhstan -- is effectively stateless.

"I will not give up on my country [Kazakhstan]," Muradi, who speaks fluent Kazakh, told RFE/RL's Kazakh Service. "I will not move to another country."

He is not alone. Dozens of ethnic Kazakhs from Afghanistan have been stripped of their citizenship by Astana in the past two years over doubts about their ethnicity.

Resettlement Program

Kazakhstan offers citizenship to ethnic Kazakhs who emigrate from abroad. Over 1 million ethnic Kazakhs from neighboring countries have moved to the oil-rich Central Asian country since the 1990s.

According to official figures, some 13,000 ethnic Kazakhs from Afghanistan have immigrated to Kazakhstan since the country gained independence following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.

Kazakh authorities say there are only several hundred ethnic Kazakhs remaining in Afghanistan. But ethnic Kazakhs in Afghanistan estimate the number is much higher.

Many members of the ethnic Kazakh community speak Dari or Uzbek and live among ethnic Uzbek communities in northern Afghanistan. Most of them reside in rural areas and are engaged in livestock farming.

'Not A Kazakh'

Muradi is a native of Afghanistan's northern province of Kunduz. He moved to Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city, in 2016 to attend university. Muradi, who lives in central Karaganda Province, later got married in Kazakhstan.

Last year, he was informed by the authorities that his citizenship was being revoked because the Kazakh Embassy in Kabul determined that he was "not Kazakh but Uzbek," without offering details. In May, a local court upheld the decision.

Muradi is appealing against the decision but faces an uphill battle to prove he is ethnic Kazakh.

Bakhyt Sarai, director of the nongovernmental Elsana Amanat Foundation, which helps Afghans trying to reclaim their Kazakh citizenship, said Astana has revoked the citizenship of some 250 Afghans in recent years.

In 2023, she said, the Kazakh Embassy in Kabul shared with Astana a list of Kazakh citizens originally from Afghanistan whom it suspected were not ethnic Kazakhs.

Sarai said many of those whose citizenship had been revoked have married in Kazakhstan and their children were born there. Many have become stateless and are likely to be forced to return to Afghanistan, she said.

"They are afraid of returning to Afghanistan because their children cannot study or integrate into society," Sarai told RFE/RL.

In comments to RFE/RL, Kazakhstan's Interior Ministry said it had received information "from authorized bodies" that those stripped of Kazakh citizenship "did not belong to the Kazakh nationality" and that these individuals "presented false documents confirming their Kazakh nationality."

The ministry added that these individuals must return to Afghanistan to obtain a passport and legalize their stay in Kazakhstan.

Among those who lost their Kazakh citizenship is Abdul Khalil Najibullah.

The 56-year-old said he lost his farm and business in Kazakhstan after he was stripped of his citizenship in 2021. He said he was accused of lying about his ethnicity, which he denies.

Najibullah first moved to Kazakhstan in 2000 from the northern Afghan province of Faryab, where he was born. He has appealed against the decision and is fighting his case in court.

"I have repeatedly asked how I can live without any documents," Najibullah, who still resides in Kazakhstan, said of his appeals to the Kazakh authorities. "I was told that this is my problem [not theirs]."

Written by Abubakar Siddique based on reporting by RFE/RL's Kazakh Service
Fighting intensified in eastern Ukraine around the frontline city of Pokrovsk as Russia carried out another overnight attack targeting civilian infrastructure.

Ukrainian authorities said that three missiles and 135 drones were fired overnight, with the countrys air defenses taking out all but one missile and 41 drones. No casualties have been reported.

The attacks came after an even more intense barrage the previous night, with 430 drones and 18 missiles that injured at least 35 people targeting the Ukrainian capital. Kyiv military administration head Tymur Tkachenko said that the death toll rose to seven people on the morning of November 15.

In response, the Ukrainian military said it has struck facilities inside Russia that it considers key to its adversary's war effort. The statement added the strikes targeted an oil refinery in Russias Ryazan region and a military contingent in the occupied part of Ukraines Zaporizhzhya region.

The Battle For Pokrovsk Intensifies

Meanwhile, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said that 265 clashes had occurred over the last 24 hours between Russia and Ukrainian forces along the front line. Nearly half of those took place in the villages and area surrounding Pokrovsk, which holds crucial road and rail junctions and has been under threat of encirclement by Russian forces for most of the year.

There were other clashes in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhya region, where Russia's Defense Ministry claimed on November 15 that its forces captured the village of Yablukove. The claim could not be independently verified by RFE/RL.

But attention remains on Pokrovsk.

Ukrainian troops have come under more pressure there in recent weeks, with General Oleksandr Syrskiy, Ukraines top military commander, visiting units fighting to hold the city in the eastern Donetsk region.

Syrskiy said Ukraines key goals were to regain control of certain areas, protect supply and evacuation lines, and create new ones.

There is no question of Russian control over the city of Pokrovsk or of the operational encirclement of Ukraines defence forces in the area, Syrskiy said during his November 13 visit.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he is not opposed to withdrawing from Pokrovsk amid the very difficult situation, but it was a decision for commanders on the ground.

No one is forcing them to die for the sake of ruins. I will support our soldiers, especially the commanders who are there, in how they can control the situation, or if it's too expensive for us. The most important thing for us is our soldiers, Zelenskyy told Bloomberg during a recent interview.

Earlier this week, Russia's Defense Ministry said that its forces had pushed Ukrainian troops out of surrounding towns and villages to the south of Pokrovsk, which is still home to about 7,000 inhabitants -- down from more than 60,000 prior to Russias full-scale invasion in 2022.

Pokrovsk is strategic to Moscow as taking the area can provide a foothold to launch further attacks north toward Kramatorsk and Slovyansk, the two largest remaining Ukrainian-controlled cities in the Donetsk region.

In an analysis of the latest battlefield maneuvers around Pokrovsk, the Institute for the Study of War, a Washington-based think tank, said that Russian forces are continuing to advance in the area, but how Ukraine decides to counterattack and move back its forces will determine how strategic of a gain Pokrovsk will be for the next phase of fighting in eastern Ukraine.

Russian forces will likely collapse the pocket around Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad, but the significance of seizing these towns will depend on the circumstances and conduct of the Ukrainian withdrawal, the report said.
Tymur Mindich, a prominent businessman and the alleged ringleader of a massive corruption scandal in Ukraines energy sector, used a luxury taxi service to leave the country for Poland hours before authorities launched raids in connection with their investigation, RFE/RL has learned.

Reporting by Schemes, the investigative unit of RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service, shows that Mindich used TimeLux, a luxury transportation company based in the western city of Lviv, and left Ukraine at 2:09 a.m. on November 10 in a Mercedes-Benz S 350 registered to one of the firms owners.

Schemes learned the license plate number of the car from law-enforcement sources with access to data about Mindichs border crossing and then tracked the car through social media posts to determine its owner.

Mindich's departure from Ukraine in the hours ahead of raids launched by investigators has sparked controversy. Ukraine's anti-corruption watchdog has said it has found a "large-scale operation" exposing tens of millions of dollars of graft in the energy sector in the midst of Russia's full-scale invasion. Mindich's involvement has also led to uproar due to his past connections to leading political figures, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The use of the luxury taxi service offers new details about how Mindich, a 46-year-old well-connected businessman in Ukraine, left the country shortly before his home was searched by police on November 10 as part of one of the largest corruption scandals in the country since Moscows February 2022 invasion.

What Does The Luxury Taxi Company Tell Us About How Mindich Left Ukraine?

The Mercedes-Benz S 350 belongs to 38-year-old Lviv-based entrepreneur Maksym Vovk, who records show is the director and lead owner of TimeLux.

When contacted by RFE/RL, Vovk said that the company does not check passengers' documents and that this responsibility rests with Ukraines border authorities.

I do not have the information to comment on your question, he said and when asked whether he knew Mindich, he replied: Thank God, no.

Another co-owner of TimeLux is Eldar Asadulayev, who previously worked in the western regional department of Ukraines State Border Guard Service. He is also listed in one of the license plate verification applications as head of the anti-smuggling department of the Border Guard Service.

Contacted by phone, Asadulayev replied only briefly when asked by RFE/RL whether he knows Mindich and is aware that he used TimeLux to leave the country.

This is the first time Ive heard about it, Asadulayev said, and then hung up.

TimeLux was only registered in May of this year. The company does not own any real estate for a physical office or have any vehicles registered to its name. The firm holds a valid license for domestic and international passenger transportation, and its social media posts show that it began providing services even before its formal registration.

The companys website says that it offers customers premium transportation to Poland, Moldova, and Romania and in advertisements it promises fast border crossing, full support, and customized routes based on the clients wishes.

Ukraines State Border Guard Service said previously that they had conducted their own official investigation to establish the circumstances of Mindich's crossing of the border.

"According to the results of the inspection, we note that the border crossing by this citizen was legal. He was issued a border-crossing permit to leave Ukraine at one of the checkpoints in accordance with the norms of current legislation, the agency said in a statement. All documents that give the right to cross the border during martial law were available. We would like to separately note that no restrictions were imposed on him prohibiting him from leaving Ukraine.

Mindich has not commented publicly on the corruption allegations or on his departure from Ukraine in the early hours of November 10.

What Is The Corruption Scandal That Implicates Mindich?

Several people have been implicated in Operation Midas, an ongoing investigation that was launched by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) as a joint operation with the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office.

They announced that they had found a plot involving "a high-level criminal organization" aimed to "influence strategic enterprises in the public sector, in particular JSC 'Energoatom,'" a state-owned nuclear energy company.

The case has rocked Ukraine not just for the scale of corruption as the country is at war with Russia, but for the well-connected individuals involved.

Mindich is a co-owner of the Kvartal 95 comedy troupe that Zelenskyy also co-owned before he ran for office.

The business was an important vehicle for Zelenskyy to gain popularity as a comedian and actor before entering politics. Mindich was also a business partner with billionaire Ihor Kolomoyskiy, who backed Zelenskyy's 2019 presidential campaign and who has been in pretrial detention since 2023 on fraud and money-laundering charges.

Another high-profile figure involved in the case is Herman Halushchenko, who was suspended from his position of justice minister on November 12. He previously served as energy minister.

Halushchenko said he would defend himself in court from claims he had received "personal benefits" from Mindich in the alleged kickback scheme.

Former Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, who is currently secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, and former Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov, are also implicated in the case.

Umerov has denied involvement. Separate corruption charges were brought against Chernyshov in June.

Zelenskyy has lauded the anti-corruption investigation, which involved more than 70 raids, saying that all and any steps against corruption are very necessary.

On November 12, Energy Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk tendered her resignation, following a call by Zelenskyy for her to go. She insisted she had not broken the law.

But how Mindich knew to leave the country ahead of the raids remains a central question for investigators moving forward.

Viktor Chumak, chief military prosecutor in 2019-20 and acting prosecutor-general in 2020, previously told RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service that "it is absolutely impossible, unless you are helped by law enforcement officers" to exit the country quickly amid Ukraine's wartime travel restrictions.
Since the UK banned single-use vapes in June over health and environmental concerns, Viacheslav Semeniuk has had his work cut out extracting thousands of batteries from the devices to send to Ukraine, where they are made into power banks for frontline troops. The Ukrainian volunteer, who has lived in Leeds, a city in northern England, for the past decade, says UK producers of e-cigarettes cant sell them anymore so basically were just helping to make [manufacturers and retailers] lives easier, because they need to do something with them.

A recent delivery of four pallets of brand new vapes to the Leeds Ukrainian Community Association, which Semeniuk co-founded in 2022, adds up to more than 10,000 individual devices which he and a small band of volunteers are currently working through. We gather together in my house or whoevers house it is and then we sit maybe watching a movie or drinking wine, Semeniuk says of the sessions breaking down vape pens. Its like a family evening.

Elsewhere in the UK, entrepreneur Tom Nabielec has collected unwanted vapes to be donated to the Ukrainian Social Club in London, which also ships batteries to Ukraine. He confirmed to RFE/RL that disposable e-cigarettes are now relatively easy to source from shops free of charge. It costs [retailers] money to recycle otherwise and here in the UK they must by law. Nabielec says he was given vapes from one retail outlet, which soon spread the word to the other shops in their small chain about the potential to donate stockpiles to Ukrainian charities.

Semeniuk says the vapes are broken down in the UK to avoid customs fees when travelling through Europe and into Ukraine, a lesson learned the hard way when one shipment of e-cigarettes that had not been dismantled was turned back on the Dutch border. The driver, had to return from the Netherlands to Leeds to unload them and then turn around and drive back again, the Ukrainian says.

Transporting potentially resellable vape devices internationally requires tax fees and extensive importation paperwork. However, "waste products such as boxes of loose batteries that Semeniuk and other volunteers are extracting can be carried across borders without such bureaucratic friction. The batteries are taped up for the journey across Europe to reduce the risk of fire that can occur when exposed battery terminals touch and short circuit.

Once inside Ukraine, the batteries are glued into 3D-printed power bank shells by teams which Semeniuk works with in Lviv. The rugged, rechargeable finished product features mutiple power outlets. Frontline soldiers use the powerbanks for whatever USB-powered devices there are, Semeniuk says.

On the Russian side of the ongoing war in Ukraine, vape users are being asked to donate e-cigarettes for their batteries and wiring. One e-cigarette = one drop from a drone onto the enemy! one poster in a university in the southwestern Russian city of Samara proclaimed. Small servomotors used to drop munitions from drones can be powered by a single disposable vape battery.
If tasked with envisioning the dairy barn of the future, most producers minds would likely go straight to technological advancements: more robust robotics and perhaps more streamlined data analysis. But a recentinvited review took the concept in a different direction, as the authors based their optimal future dairy barn on a foundation of animal welfare. Citing the current and growing political and social climate around the issue, and how these pressures intersect with economic feasibility for dairy farmers, the authors developed a concept that they hope will help support the future of dairy farming.

One of the core conflicts they faced was the juxtaposition of how farmers must address the health of the dairy cow versus catering to its species-typical behavior. The study noted that animal welfare entails more than just health as a narrow concept; it must take into account the cows affective state and its natural tendencies which, if suppressed, might affect its wellbeing. Priorities for the barn construction and research project were decided upon  the cattle should be able to:

Form a stable herd structure. Exhibit species-typical lying behavior. Have autonomy on decisions to be indoors or outdoors.

The researchers first did a deep dive on the current state of the industry, covering how todays housing systems and management conditions might affect dairy cow welfare. With no living wild ancestors to point to for assigning baseline natural behaviors, the authors limited their scope to those three key benchmarks and noted four major challenges in current practices that block achieving them:

Regrouping, which affects establishment of stable herd structure. Early calf-cow separation, which affects establishment of stable herd structure. Access to indoors and outdoors, called out for its effect on species-typical lying behavior. Access to indoors and outdoors, which determines autonomy for environment selection.

Building on the basics

To achieve the three objectives, the authors envisioned a family herd of 60 lactating cows, six dry cows, 12 calves, and 51 young stock. The infrastructure would include a free lying area with year-round access to pasture or paddocks. Pregnant cows would have access to a separate area for delivery and dam-calf bonding, and a kindergarten would help with the weaning process.

Open lying areas would further bolster herd structure by allowing for combined housing; a high-welfare floor and automated cleaning system would contribute to animal wellbeing. Virtual fencing and mobile shading options for pastures, and a paddock for winter months are included in the plans, which can be viewed in the JDS article. Autonomy is emphasized both in environment (indoors versus outdoors) as well as when to go for milking at a centrally located automated milking system (AMS); too, and calves should be able to accompany their dams to the AMS and stay close to them via an extra path.

Use of technology beyond the AMS does play into this barn of the future, as the producer might have imagined when asked to envision it. Monitoring tech and cameras are baked into the concept, as they play vital roles in animal welfare and herd management. The review cited previous studies that have shown the automation of production processes has an overall positive effect on animal welfare, including automatic feeding systems. The authors also noted that differing nutrient needs among the age groups will necessitate smart feeding fences that employ animal identification.

In addition to the other structural recommendations, cows would also have increased space allowances compared to conventional barns, another condition in a series that would raise costs. The researchers stated, Nevertheless, farmers will have to invest more in animal-friendly barns to align with consumer expectations around animal welfare and added that the review in JDS was elicited to add to the nascent body of knowledge around the sustainable implementation of animal-friendly housing systems in practice.

To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com.
A Carrick-on-Shannon bar won a major national award at the Irish Pub Awards held during the week in Dublin.

McHugh's Bar, Carrick-on-Shannon was overall winner in the 'Best Match Day Bar' category at the Irish Pub Awards held during the week in Dublin.

"We are absolutely thrilled and incredibly proud to bring another national title home to Carrick-on-Shannon," said the proprietors at McHugh's.

"This huge recognition is a genuine testament to our loyal and hardworking staff who have stuck with us. It's well known that their shifts are demanding and some days aren't easy, yet they always manage to serve you with a smile. Their dedication is the backbone of this success.

"We truly believe that with luck and great people by your side, anything is possibleand we are so fortunate to have the absolute best. To our incredible families, dedicated staff, and supportive customers, thank you, this win belongs to all of you."
For the people of Bihar, this is not just about who governs, but whether the government can deliver on the big ideas that justified such overwhelming trust.

While the NDA's win is resounding, the real test now is governance.

Bihar Elections 2025: NDA Landslide Victory and the Road Ahead for Nitish Kumar

The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has secured 202 out of 243 seats, an emphatic majority in the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections. This overwhelming mandateroughly a three-fourths majoritymarks not just a political victory but also sets the stage for Nitish Kumars likely return as Chief Minister.

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Nitish Set to Return: Stability or Stagnation?

Sources close to the NDA indicate that Nitish Kumar, the veteran JD(U) leader, is poised to assume the CMs post once again. He has already served multiple terms; his experience is seen within NDA as a key for stabilityand a powerful counterweight to anti-incumbency fears. The strong seat-sharing deal within NDABJP and JD(U) contested 101 seats eachalso underscores how the alliance has kept its internal balance intact.

Voters Speak with Their Ballot

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Many analysts believe that Nitishs governance model, which married social justice with development, resonated deeply with the electorate. His long-term focus on inclusive welfare, law and order, and infrastructure has now been rewarded with a broad mandate. Prime Minister Narendra Modi too hailed the result as a validation of the NDAs governance agenda, calling it pro-development, pro-people.

Opposition StumblesAnd Voices Doubt

On the other hand, the RJD-Congress-led INDIA bloc suffered a crushing defeat. Rahul Gandhi described the results as truly surprising, alleging unfairness in the processthough the Election Commission has said there is no official support for these claims. Some in the opposition argue that the alliance failed to articulate a compelling alternative narrative, relying instead on warnings of electoral malpractice.

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What Happens Next  Beyond Seats

While the NDAs win is resounding, the real test now is governance. For Nitish Kumar, the challenge is clear: translate this electoral mandate into meaningful progressjobs, infrastructure, and social equity. The alliance must also manage its internal dynamics carefully to maintain unity. For the people of Bihar, this is not just about who governs, but whether the government can deliver on the big ideas that justified such overwhelming trust.
The successful arrest highlights the continued threat posed by cross-border terror modules attempting to exploit local operatives to spread panic. File Photo

The probe revealed that the main accused in the case  Manu Agwan and Maninder Billa  are currently in Malaysia.

Gujarat ATS Arrests Key Operative in ISI-Backed Grenade Smuggling Case Linked to Punjab Terror Module



The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested Gurpreet Singh, alias Gopi Billa, who was wanted by Punjab Police for allegedly smuggling grenades and arms for a Pakistan-linked terror module. Officials said that he was arrested from Halol town of Panchmahal district. It is based on a specific input shared by the Punjab Police.



According to the ATS release issued on November 14, 2025, Singh had been working as a labourer in a local factory and was staying at a hotel when the ATS team tracked him down. He has been taken into custody and will be handed over to Punjab Police for further investigation.



Part of a Larger Pakistan-Backed Network



As per preliminary investigations conducted by the ATS and Punjab Police, the arrested operative is linked to a module allegedly working at the behest of Pakistan-based terrorist handlers, particularly those connected with ISI.



The probe revealed that the main accused in the case  Manu Agwan and Maninder Billa  are currently in Malaysia. Officials said these individuals were recruiting operatives in Punjab and attempting to build a network capable of carrying out grenade attacks in densely populated areas of Punjab and other states.



A recent case registered in Gurdaspur district also pointed to the same network. It involved suspects connected to grenade smuggling and detonation activities aimed at assisting terror groups across the border.



Grenades and Pistols Smuggled Into Punjab



According to Punjab Police, during the interrogation of two other accused arrested earlier, investigators learnt about Gurpreet Singhs alleged role in smuggling two grenades and two pistols into Punjab. These weapons were reportedly meant to be used for planned terror attacks.



Swift Coordination Prevents Possible Attacks



Officials said the coordinated efforts between Punjab Police and Gujarat ATS helped prevent potential high-impact attacks. The successful arrest highlights the continued threat posed by cross-border terror modules attempting to exploit local operatives to spread panic.



Authorities have intensified investigations to identify additional members of the network and trace the movement of weapons smuggled into India.



As the case progresses, more details are expected to emerge on how the module operated and the extent of its links with Pakistan-based handlers.
On this occasion, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth over INR 9,700 crore, aimed at accelerating growth in tribal-dominated regions of Gujarat and other states.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage on X, recalling Birsa Munda's extraordinary contribution to protecting the honour of the motherland

Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas: PM Modi Marks Birsa Mundas 150th Birth Anniversary With Major Tribal Development Initiative in Gujarat

India celebrated Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas on Saturday, marking the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the legendary tribal freedom fighter who led a powerful resistance against British rule. The whole nation paid tribute to the iconic leader, known as Dharti Aaba, whose legacy continues to inspire tribal communities and the nation at large.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage on X, recalling Birsa Mundas extraordinary contribution to protecting the honour of the motherland. His struggle and sacrifice will inspire every generation, he wrote, as the country observed the milestone birth anniversary with national programmes and cultural events.

As part of the celebrations, the Prime Minister visited Devmogra Temple in Gujarats Narmada district, a revered site for tribal communities. He later addressed a massive gathering in Dediapada, where the central Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas programme was held this year. The event also featured traditional performances and exhibitions showcasing tribal heritage.

On this occasion, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth over INR 9,700 crore, aimed at accelerating growth in tribal-dominated regions of Gujarat and other states. The projects, jointly funded by the Centre and the Gujarat government, span infrastructure, housing, education, health, heritage and connectivity.

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A major highlight was the Grih Pravesh of 1 lakh tribal homes under PM-JANMAN and DA-JAGUA, supporting vulnerable tribal families with secure housing. The Prime Minister also inaugurated 42 Eklavya Model Residential Schools worth INR 1,900 crore, along with 228 Multi-Purpose Centres to strengthen community-led activities.

To boost connectivity, he flagged off 250 new buses for 14 tribal districts and laid the foundation stone for 748 km of new rural roads. He also announced 14 Tribal Multi-Marketing Centres, a Tribal Research Institute building in Manipur and a Centre of Competence at Assam Medical College.

With national celebrations, cultural tributes, and large-scale welfare initiatives, this years Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas not only honoured Birsa Mundas legacy but also highlighted a renewed push toward tribal empowerment across India.
These measures highlight the Punjab government's focus on ensuring accountability among senior officers, maintaining law and order, and addressing administrative irregularities.

An interim officer has been appointed to oversee the Amritsar Rural police post while a permanent replacement is yet to be finalised.

Punjab Government Suspends Amritsar SSP and Moga ADC Amid Rising Crime and Alleged Irregularities

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The Punjab Government has suspended Amritsar Rural SSP Maninder Singh and Moga ADC-cum-Municipal Commissioner Charumita for lapses in law enforcement and alleged financial irregularities.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann ordered the suspension of SSP Maninder Singh. It followed reports of a sharp rise in gangster-related activities in Amritsar. The officer was accused of failing to mitigate organised crime. Singh, an IPS officer of the 2019 batch, had previously served as Assistant Commissioner of Police in the Amritsar Police Commissionerate, Superintendent of Police in Tarn Taran, and Assistant to the Governor of Punjab (ADC).

A senior official said that the government is committed to ensuring accountability and effective law enforcement across the state. He emphasised that timely action against criminal networks is a top priority. An interim officer has been appointed to oversee the Amritsar Rural police post while a permanent replacement is yet to be finalised.

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Meanwhile, in Moga, PCS officer Charumita was suspended under the Punjab Civil Services (Punishment & Appeal) Rules, 1970, following alleged irregularities in land acquisition compensation worth Rs 3.7 crore along the DharamkotBahadurwala National Highway stretch. A farmers complaint prompted a Vigilance Bureau probe, leading to the suspension. Charumita has denied any wrongdoing, claiming she had no involvement in the irregularities. During suspension, her headquarters has been fixed in Chandigarh, and she is barred from leaving without permission.

These suspensions follow a previous administrative move before the Tarn Taran bypoll, when SSP Dr Ravjot Kaur Grewal, the districts first woman SSP, was suspended after complaints from the Shiromani Akali Dal regarding alleged political bias. Dr Grewal was later replaced by Surinder Lamba.

These measures highlight the Punjab governments focus on ensuring accountability among senior officers, maintaining law and order, and addressing administrative irregularities. Analysts note that such decisive action may strengthen public confidence in governance while sending a clear message to officials about the importance of diligence, integrity, and timely implementation of duties.
The Life of Kimonos in Romania

Lecturer Laura Karaman became the only kimono designer in Romania and told us what her journey was

Foto: pixabay.com

Calin Cotoiu and Ana-Maria Cononovici, 15.11.2025, 12:17

She was preparing a bachelors degree as a clothing designer, within the National University of Arts in Bucharest, at the Fashion section, when the theme of Little Black Dress passed through several styles became an inspiration to adapt the Visual Kei Japanese style of music, and dressing.

Being an opportunity to discover Japanese culture, the art of kimono wearing and much more, Laura Karaman managed to get a license to deepen her studies:

Trying to get closer to the exam collection, I didnt pretend doing anything other than to copy what the Japanese did, I didnt manage to be creative, and so I took a years leave, and decided to study traditional Japanese culture, through the courses of the ceremony of the Angela Hondru Romanian-Japanese Study Center, art courses, architecture, in Japan, Japanese language courses, and studying and getting closer to traditional Japanese culture, I realized that the kimonos brought from Japan didnt fit our bodies. We, as Europeans, have slightly longer arms than the Japanese, and so I decided to make kimonos to get the same harmony for the person wearing the kimono, as I learned about the kimono.

Lecturer Laura Karaman became the only kimono designer in Romania and told us what her journey was:

In 2010 I was able to study Japanese culture for the first time. I had the honor to collaborate with various artists from Japan, kimono designers, kimono print designers, and I learned directly from the mentioned source tricks about kimonos, and now I also have a course within the framework of the Victory Street Foundation, Contemporary Traditional Gift. I also taught within the Angela Hondru Center for Romanian-Japanese Studies, the Art of wearing a kimono: all kinds of techniques of wearing the kimono, and how to prepare it for various events.

We learned from our interlocutor that there is interest in kimonos in Romania, especially because Laura Karaman has creations adapted to local traditions:

As fabrics go, I opt for materials that are available on the market in Romania, in order to make more accessible, more affordable, kimonos, and the fabric used in Japan for kimonos also has a much more complex washing process, in which the kimono must be unwrapped, washed and then sewn back. It is never washed exactly as it is However. Japanese silk also changes shape when washed, while turning to European fabrics, I noticed that these also retain shape when washed. I have kimonos with Romanian motifs, hand-painted, but also obis, the butterfly belt, fixed in the Romanian technique of weaving flies, and brought much more in the contemporary, street clothes with Japanese influence, but also Romanian.

Kimonos are present in Romania at festivals such as: Asia Fest, Comicon, Hanan, and are studied within the Angela Hondru Center for Romanian-Japanese Studies, or in a course offered by the Victory Street Foundation, by Laura Karaman, our interlocutor. Lecturer Laura Karaman added:

Compared to 2010, when I started, the kimono and traditional Japanese culture have taken on a much larger scope in Romania, and there are many more people willing to experience traditional Japanese culture. Brought into the contemporary, the kimono can be a piece of clothing very easily integrated into everyday attire if you meet certain criteria and take steps from the traditional side.

These steps should be followed carefully, starting from the way you choose the kimono according to season, age, or event, to the steps you follow when you put it on, a kimono has approximately 22 accessories, which have their place when you put it on, as Laura Karaman enthusiastically told us.
The Art House of Sibiu

The ASTRA Museum has revitalized the medieval guild house in the historic center of Sibiu, transforming it into a training, certification and cultural center.

    

Ion Puican and Eugen Cojocariu, 15.11.2025, 14:01

The ASTRA Museum in Sibiu is one of the largest and most complex open-air museums in Europe, dedicated to the promotion of Romanias material and intangible cultural heritage. Located in Dumbrava Sibiului, the museum brings together over 400 monuments of vernacular architecture  houses, workshops, churches, windmills, and traditional technical installations  these convey the universe of Romanian culture in all its ethnographic diversity.

In 2025, the ASTRA Museum in Sibiu was awarded one of the most important European heritage awards  European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra 2025, in the category Education, training and skills, for the project House of Arts  Center of Activities regional resources. The project was appreciated for the way it managed to transform a historic building in the heart of Sibiu into a living space of learning, work and community. Ciprian Stefan, director general of the ASTRA Museum, provided us with more details about the winning project and about Romanias rural resources:

When we built this project, we thought about development, sustainability and everything that means living in a normality of human resources from the rural environment. Romania, at the moment is in a good position in Europe. We have the most important resource in the rural environment, the human resource. When we built the project, we had this building in the center of Sibiu, Casa Artelor, the Art House, with a rich history, quite rich and important for the development of the city. But at the same time we have created an educational component, thinking that the future of Romanias intangible heritage depends on the next generation, who have to understand and make it their own it differently, as we, as a museum with an ethnographic profile, show the heart of society, in fact, what authenticity means, what tradition means. Because a lot threatens the traditional, all kinds of things reinterpreted and sitting in a discourse that is more political or more of image than reality.

What were the strong points of the project Arts House  Center of activities and regional resources that brought the Romanian award?

Certifying competence. This is like an its a must at European level. We have managed to do it at the national level. It came very well in the jury, because you think about the human resources that will have to work in the restoration. They work already and will have to work in restoration. And how to ensure that the historical monument, in time, will be well maintained, restored, but also valorized. In addition, the module in which we approach the component of sustainability, integration, but also strategic partnership with Norway and other public and private entities in Romania. There I think we have won, especially since we have involved the Sibiu community. 

The ASTRA Museum is not only a museum of the past, but also a laboratory of the future of living heritage, which supports local communities and connects traditional Romanian values to the dynamics of contemporary Europe. The Director General of the ASTRA Museum, Ciprian Stefan, spoke to us in closing about upcoming projects:

 We are working on a project where Im trying to have Sibiu peasant blouse as a geographical indication. The first, I think, in Romania. We dont wait for anyone, we do our job. And, of course, in the center of Sibiului we have received a bastion with a building, and we want to build the Astra Center for Education in the center of Sibiu, so we come with a new offer, cultural education, in the central area. 

The distinction awarded by the ASTRA Museum confirms Sibius role as a European landmark in the field of living heritage and cultural education. It is a Romanian example of success now recognized throughout Europe.

The ASTRA Museum is not only a museum of the past, but also a laboratory for the future of living heritage, which supports local communities and connects traditional Romanian values to the dynamics of contemporary Europe. The Director General of the ASTRA Museum, Ciprian Stefan, spoke to us in closing about their upcoming projects:

We are working on a project where were trying to have the Sibiu peasant blouse as a geographical indication. The first, I think, in Romania. We dont wait for anyone, we do our job. And, of course, in the center of Sibiu we have were given a bastion with a building, and we want to set up the Astra Center for Education in the center of Sibiu, so we come with a new offer, cultural education, in the central area. 

The distinction awarded to the ASTRA Museum confirms Sibius role as a European landmark in the field of living heritage and cultural education. It is a Romanian example of success now recognized throughout Europe.
Les films de Cannes 2025

After ten days in which Bucharest became the capital of auteur cinema, premiering the most awarded films from the Croisette, the Les Films de Cannes festival arrived in Cluj Napoca, Arad, and Iasi

sursa foto: filmedefestival.ro/les-films-de-cannes

Corina Sabau, 15.11.2025, 12:05

After ten days in which Bucharest became the capital of auteur cinema, premiering the most awarded films from the Croisette, as well as other internationally acclaimed titles, the Les Films de Cannes festival arrived in Cluj Napoca, Arad, and Iasi. One of Frances most famous actresses, Emmanuelle Beart, was the guest of honor at this edition of Les Films de Cannes a Bucarest, an event initiated 16 years ago by filmmaker Cristian Mungiu, with the support of the general delegate of the Cannes Film Festival, Thierry Fremaux. In addition to the award-winning titles at Cannes, this years festival also featured films that were selected for the Venice Film Festival and opened up to new genres, such as animation and documentary.

Film critic Ionut Mares, curator of the Les Films de Cannes a Bucarest festival:

Yes, we included an animated film in the program, Amelie et la Metaphysique des tubes, which was presented at the Cannes Film Festival and will be distributed by Independenta Film. This isnt the first year weve had films that have been seen at other festivals, but this year the audience enjoyed four films made by filmmakers who were selected for the Venice Film Festival. However, with the exception of Gianfranco Rosi, Jim Jarmusch, Yorgos Lanthimos, and Park Chan-wook, because we are talking about their films, they are artists primarily associated with the Cannes Film Festival. So this aspect also mattered, of course, in addition to the fact that their films are highly anticipated and it was only natural for us to do everything we could to bring them to the audience as soon as possible. As is already known, the festival program consists largely of titles that won awards at Cannes this year, but we also have a section of Romanian previews, selected by my colleague, curator Andrei Tanasescu. Thus, the latest Romanian films, both fiction and documentaries, were premiered in Bucharest, and discussions and Q&A sessions were held. In addition, we are also organizing some retrospectives dedicated to the invited filmmakers.

The Cannes Film Festival has not only succeeded in creating an audience interested in films dauteur, but has also convinced distributors to invest more and more in such films. Ionut Mares told us about some of the films included in the festival program that have been or will be released in cinemas:

There were also films that were released before the Cannes Film Festival. This is the case with the films directed by Nadav Lapid, Yes, presented at the Quinzaine des cineastes in Cannes, and by brothers Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne, Jeunes Meres (Young Mothers), which won the Best Screenplay Award at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, which we did not include in the festival. But most of the films will be released in theatres, and I want to mention that we have worked and continue to work very well with distributors. One of the films that audiences will be able to see in theatres thanks to the distributor Bad Unicorn is Sentimental Value, winner of the Grand Prix at Cannes, directed by Joachim Trier, a film that was sold out at both screenings. Also thanks to Bad Unicorn, the winner of the Golden Lion for Best Film, Father Mother Sister Brother, directed by Jim Jarmusch, will also be shown on screens. Bugonia, a film that was highly acclaimed at the Venice Film Festival, the latest collaboration between Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone, is another film that has recently been released in cinemas. Another film that can be seen in cinemas is No Other Choice, by Korean director Park Chan-wook, distributed by Bad Unicorn. Transilvania Films offer includes two interesting titles, one of which is this years Palme dOr winner, It Was Just an Accident, directed by Iranian Jafar Panahi. Thanks to the same distributor, we will also be able to see Sirat, directed by Oliver Laxe, on the big screen. Independenta Film, a traditional distributor, is also bringing over 10 films from the Cannes Film Festival selection to Romania.

Memorable encounters with filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals complemented the effervescent atmosphere of this years festival. Still Nia, directed by Paula Onet, was the winner based on the votes of the audience who participated in the Autumn Previews, part of les Films de Cannes a Bucarest, the only competitive section of the festival. The film brings to the fore Stefania, who, after 15 years of amnesia caused by a medical error in childhood, tries to rediscover her identity and reconnect with her estranged body. At One World Romania, Still Nia was presented in the work-in-progress section and was also selected for the Sarajevo Film Festival in 2024. Five other films by Romanian directors were screened and voted on at the Autumn Previews, before their official release in cinemas across the country. The gala in Bucharest ended with a screening of Father Mother Sister Brother, directed by Jim Jarmusch, winner of the Golden Lion at Venice. (MI)
Editors note: Not all priorities were shared due to space constraints. The county resolution on this item has all priorities and details.

BERNALILLO  Sandoval County has approved legislative priorities for next year.

With the exception of one objection, commissioners passed the priorities unanimously at their Nov. 12 meeting without any major problems to address.

The one objection came from commissioner Josh Jones, who had a problem with voter ID being a priority.

Many of the residents in my district, within District 5, would be thoroughly disenfranchised and unnecessarily burdened, he said.

Commissioner Jordan Juarez asked Jones to specify how those constituents would be disenfranchised.

Jones explained he knows of some constituents that have had difficulties getting birth certificates and other documents because of things like post office box addresses.

Juarez also asked Jones which government level is responsible for those difficulties but Jones couldnt provide an answer.

The ID issue is listed as just one of the improvements to the voting system in the resolution. It also lists efficient removal of inactive voters, prohibiting the use of unsupervised ballot drop boxes and absentee ballot chain of custody.

One priority that stuck out was changes to the Inspection of Public Records Act.

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To exclude certain law enforcement records so as to not interfere with on-going investigations; removal of personal information in released documents; to provide that commercial and bulk requesters pay for their own research costs instead of placing them on the taxpayer, to discourage abusive and serial requests; to prevent attorneys from using IPRA as a substitute for discovery; to extend the timelines for responding to requests; and to allow fees to be charged for the cost of labor in responding to broad and burdensome requests, the resolution stated, in part.

Other priorities include funding requests aimed at helping law enforcement, mental health and crisis intervention, including initiatives to enhance the availability of services for behavioral health and substance abuse.

The county also lists legislation providing for private public partnerships, funding to support medical costs associated with counties operating animal care shelters, and more.

Other priorities involve local elections as well. The county would like to see legislation that would permit school elections to be held at the same time as partisan elections. On the flip side, they would like to see the requirement for commissions to certify elections removed.

An interesting priority is legislation that allows all class A counties to eliminate the requirement that the county commission, every two years, conduct both a public hearing and a vote on the low-income tax credit.

For more information and other priorities visit the Nov. 12 agenda on sandovalcountynm.gov.
Andrew Kreitz, cofounder and CFO of Castelion Corporation, gives a presentation on the proposed Project Ranger facility during the Rio Rancho Governing Body meeting Thursday, Nov. 13.

RIO RANCHO  Were the caboose of this project.

That was an often-repeated sentiment from Rio Rancho City officials, councilors and Mayor Gregg Hull Thursday night during a long meeting that included votes on three resolutions involving the proposed Project Ranger facility on Sandoval County land.

One resolution involved a $1 million budget amendment for economic development expenditures for the project proposed by Castelion Corporation. The money would be expressly dedicated to the extension of NM347/Paseo del Volcan within city limits, the cover page of the resolution states. That portion of the extension would run from Unser Boulevard to Rainbow Boulevard.

Another issue brought before the council revolved around the city providing water and wastewater service for the facility outside city limits.

City documents and previous presentations from Castelion Corporation note the limited use of water Project Ranger would require  for domestic needs such as for drinking fountains, breakrooms and bathrooms  noting that the water needs would be equivalent to about 50 homes annually as well as fire hydrants and suppression if applicable..

That estimate places the usage at about 22 million gallons annually, while the citys water production ranges from 10-15 million gallons per day.

However, providing water services outside of city limits would be a change from current practice.

Since 2009, water letters of availability have been limited to properties only within Rio Ranchos borders, and in 2014, the Governing Body rejected exploring the issuance of water, wastewater and reuse water letters of availability outside of municipal boundaries, according to city documents. This was the last time the issue was looked at.

However, the same document notes that the citys water utility system has production, transmission and distribution west of city limits, where Project Ranger would be located. Wells 9, 13 and 14 all have sizable production capacities, noting that the city can provide water service that would be cost-neutral to residents.

If the city decided not to provide water services, the document notes that Castelion Corporation could pursue drilling its own private well under the approval of the Office of the State Engineer. A new well most likely would have impact on the citys wells and water production from these wells, the document states.

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But the bulk of the discussion around the project centered on an intergovernmental agreement with Sandoval County, which included a presentation from Castelion cofounder and CFO Andrew Kreitz, comments from Rio Rancho Fire Rescue Chief James Wenzel on emergency response planning for the facility, background information on votes the Sandoval County Commission has made in an effort to recruit the facility to New Mexico, and public comment.

As I have quipped, we are the caboose on this item, and in some cases, the caboose hasnt exactly been connected to the train, City Manager Matt Geisel said while giving an overview of the IGA and actions already taken by the county.

In discussing RRFRs automatic aid responsibility for that part of Sandoval County, Wenzel went over some of the responsibilities that need to be outlined as multiple agencies have jurisdiction of the site in different ways: the site lies on Sandoval County, RRFR has an automatic aid requirement for the area, and the State Fire Marshall oversees code enforcement.

Rio Rancho Fire and Rescue is currently under an intergovernmental agreement with Sandoval County Fire and Rescue to provide automatic mutual aid for Intel and the unincorporated area west of city limits.

This agreement was largely based on RRFR being located closer to the response and service areas in the agreement, with the nearest Sandoval County station located approximately 15 miles  or 26 minutes  from Project Ranger at the intersection of US 550 and NM 528.

When looking at the impact on call volume from Project Ranger, the city noted six types of calls that could be expected:

 Fire alarm activations

 EMS calls for employee injuries and health issues

 Motor vehicle accidents

 Hazardous material transport accident

 Small-scale fire suppression

 Large-scale fire suppression

In comparison with a similar agreement to Intel, the city noted that in 2023 and 2024, RRFR responded to an average of 75 calls. So far in 2025, that number is 59.

However, the city noted the considerable difference in location of the calls.

If RRFR units respond to Intel, when they clear, they are inside of city limits, in district, and close to their stations, the document reads, also noting proximity to two hospitals. In the case of Project Ranger, a response takes the units outside of city limits and the calls are arguably long calls based on location and potential transport. It requires the district to be covered by other units. It starts to stretch the system with the potential for increased response times.

Wenzel noted that if the site were to be developed in Sandoval County, his crews would need area familiarization, establish a working relationship with the site team and develop an incident action plan. The department would also be responsible for conducting the annual inspection with the state fire marshall and the inspection of fire suppression and alarm systems.

The concerns he presented were limited and inconsistent communication with the departments staff, the effects on the department, including routine calls, Hasmat calls, and multiple alarm response, and the determination of authority having jurisdiction, or AHJ, for emergency response.

Wenzel did note that earlier that day, a possibility of a memorandum of understanding was proposed that would offer an official, formal request to the various parties and what expectations and involvement they would have on site.

Deputy County Manager Eric Masterson noted that such an agreement would be important to the city and the county and pledged a joint, collaborative effort with the city.

However, councilors continued to voice concerns about the project, and ultimately, Geisel came back to the governing body with two proposed amendments to the intergovernmental agreement, which were passed unanimously:

 Amendment 1: Rio Rancho Fire & Rescue (RRFR) is the primary first responders to the proposed project site due to a currently in effect automatic aid agreement. Therefore, prior to any funds by the city to the county pursuant to this agreement, the city and county shall enter into a written MOU that establishes the relationship between the city, county and State Fire Marshalls Office regarding fire safety and emergency response related to the project. The MOU shall include which entity is the Authority Having Jurisdiction, which entity is responsible for plan review and approval, fire code enforcement, annual fire inspection(s), site safety pre-incident planning, incident action plan development, and any other relevant terms relating to fire safety deemed necessary by the parties.

 Amendment 2: Prior to any release of funds by the city to the county pursuant to the agreement, the county and city shall enter into a written MOU detailing the Paseo del Volcan construction plan, any ancillary/related projects and improvements (i.e. improvements related to 28th Avenue NE), and anticipated timing for all phases of road construction. The MOU shall also include identified funding sources, anticipated maintenance responsibilities, and improvement design specifications.

Ultimately, after the passage of the amendments, all three resolutions passed on a 5-1 vote with Councilor Karissa Culbreath dissenting.
Months after initially announcing the feature in September, Google is now extending call recording to additional Pixel phones.

After installing the November Feature Drop and updating to the most recent version of the app, many users are now seeing the option appear in the Phone by Google app, including on devices like the Pixel 10 Pro and the Pixel Fold.

After turning it on, you'll see a new Call Recording menu under Settings > Call Assist. Before you can begin using it, you'll need to download a few audio files.

Google guides you through the recording process during your first call and automatically alerts all participants before recording starts.

A red dot appears next to the call duration, and the Call Assist menu gives you quick access to start or stop recording.

With a microphone icon and an integrated audio player, recordings appear neatly in the app's Home tab. You can either set them to automatically delete after 7, 14, or 30 days, or you can keep them indefinitely.

Additionally, calls from selected contacts or unknown numbers can be automatically recorded.

The November Pixel Feature Drop seems to be necessary for the feature to appear, and it is accessible on Pixel 6 and later devices running Android 14 or later. Only after installing the app and system updates did some users notice the new option.

Google is bringing Call Notes, its AI-powered transcription and summarization tool, to additional countries, including Australia, Canada, India, Ireland, and Japan, in addition to call recording.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Canadian stocks extended the sharp pullback seen during Thursday's session in early trading on Friday but showed a significant rebound as the day progressed.

After plunging by as much as 1.5 percent in early trading, the benchmark S&P/TSX Composite Index climbed well off its lowest and into positive territory before eventually closing up 72.82 points or 0.2 percent at 30,326.46.

With the turnaround on the day combined with the strong upward move seen before Thursday's sell-off, the index jumped by 1.4 percent.

The turnaround on Bay Street came as stocks showed a significant rebound, with the S&P/TSX Capped Information Technology Index climbing by 1.3 percent after tumbling as much as 2.6 percent.

Energy stocks helped lead the recovery, driving the S&P/TSX Capped Energy Index up by 2.2 percent as the price of crude oil spiked on news of a Ukrainian drone attack on an oil depot in the Russian Black Sea port of Novorossiysk.

Two industry sources told Reuters the attack led the port to pause oil exports and oil pipeline monopoly Transneft to suspend crude supplies to the outlet, leading to concerns about Russian supply.

Consumer staples stocks also turned in a strong performance on the day, while substantial weakness was visible among healthcare stocks.

In economic news, Statistics Canada released a report showing Canadian manufacturing sales surged by 3.3 percent in September, driven by higher sales of transportation equipment and petroleum and coal products.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Market Analysis
Mozilla is preparing to influence artificial intelligence in the same way that it influenced the early web by promoting user choice, decentralization, and openness.

At the Web Summit in Portugal, Mozilla president Mark Surman said that the company is working to steer AI in a more open and community-driven direction.

Like societies gradually adapting regulations for cars decades ago, Surman pointed out that governments worldwide are still figuring out how to regulate AI.

However, in the midst of international tensions, he claimed that the real action is taking place in industrial policy, where nations are battling for control over their own and artificial intelligence capabilities.

To keep pace, Mozilla is shifting its work to make open-source AI more accessible. The company is building what Surman describes as a "Wikipedia for ethical training data," giving communities ownership of the datasets used to train models.

Inside its products, Mozilla is experimenting with an "AI browser project" that would add AI tools to Firefox without compromising user privacy.

A new opt-in experience, tentatively called AI Window or AI Mode, is expected next year. Unlike other browsers that lock users into one AI system, Mozilla wants people to pick their own model, whether it's ChatGPT, Mistral, or an open-source alternative. Users could also choose different models for work and personal browsing.

Surman also acknowledged Mozilla's complicated but longstanding partnership with Google, its biggest revenue source and also a frequent target of criticism.

Despite the tensions, he said both companies share an interest in preserving an open web a goal he believes is only becoming more important as AI becomes central to the online experience.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
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The oldest known crocodile eggshells ever identified in Australia are giving UNSW researchers fresh insight into long vanished animals and the environments they depended on. These remains come from creatures that lived millions of years before the continent separated from the landmasses that became Antarctica and South America.

In the small southeast QLD town of Murgon, scientists have spent decades excavating what appears to be an ordinary clay pit in a local grazier's backyard. Beneath the surface sits one of Australia's earliest fossil-bearing locations, a site that provides a rare look into a time when the continent was still part of a much larger supercontinent.

An international research group led by the Institut Catala de Paleontologia Miquel Crusafont (ICP), working with UNSW Sydney, has now identified these ancient crocodilian eggshells. The team confirmed they are the oldest ever recovered in Australia.

The fragments have been formally named Wakkaoolithus godthelpi. They once came from mekosuchine crocodiles, an extinct group that dominated waterways about 55 million years ago. Australia's modern freshwater and saltwater crocodiles only appeared far later, roughly 3.8 million years ago.

"These eggshells have given us a glimpse of the intimate life history of mekosuchines," says the study's, opens in a new window lead author Xavier Panades i Blas. "We can now investigate not only the strange anatomy of these crocs, but also how they reproduced and adapted to changing environments."

Unusual Behaviors in Ancient Mekosuchine Crocodiles

Unlike today's crocodiles, mekosuchines occupied a surprising range of ecological roles.

"It's a bizarre idea," says UNSW paleontologist Professor Michael Archer. "But some of them appear to have been terrestrial hunters in the forests."

Evidence from younger mekosuchine fossils supports this interpretation. These fossils were found in 25-million-year-old deposits at the Riversleigh World Heritage Area in Boodjamulla National Park on Waanyi country in northwestern QLD.

Some river-dwelling species at Riversleigh reached lengths of at least five meters. Prof. Archer says some were likely semi-arboreal as well.

"Some were also apparently at least partly semi-arboreal 'drop crocs'," he says. "They were perhaps hunting like leopards -- dropping out of trees on any unsuspecting thing they fancied for dinner."

Eggshells as a Tool for Reconstructing Ancient Environments

Panades i Blas highlights the scientific value of eggshells in reconstructing ancient life.

"They preserve microstructural and geochemical signals that tell us not only what kinds of animals laid them, but also where they nested and how they bred," he says. "Our study shows just how powerful these fragments can be. Eggshells should be a routine, standard component of paleontological research -- collected, curated and analyzed alongside bones and teeth."

The Murgon samples were studied using both optical and electron microscopes. The eggshell microstructure indicates that these crocodiles likely nested along the edges of a lake and adjusted their reproductive strategies as conditions shifted over time.

Coauthor Dr. Michael Stein suggests that mekosuchines may have lost much of their inland habitat as the region dried. They would have been pushed into smaller waterways, where they had to compete with newly arrived crocodiles as well as cope with shrinking populations of their megafaunal prey.

Dr. Stein adds that the lake at Murgon was surrounded by dense forest.

"This forest was also home to the world's oldest-known songbirds, Australia's earliest frogs and snakes, a wide range of small mammals with South American links, as well as one of the world's oldest known bats," he says.

A Fossil Site That Continues to Reshape Australia's Early History

Prof. Archer describes the Tingamarra deposit at Murgon as part of a far larger scientific story, revealing details about life before Australia became isolated.

He recalls uncovering an unusual crocodilian jaw fragment in 1975 in the Texas Caves of southeastern Queensland. Although it is now known to belong to a mekosuchine crocodile, the specimen initially confused him.

The jawbone looked reptilian but had teeth resembling those of dinosaurs. Seeking clarity, he brought the fossil to Professor Max Hecht, a reptile expert at the American Museum of Natural History.

"When he saw it, Max nearly dropped his coffee cup," Prof. Archer says. "It closely resembled another kind of extinct croc with dinosaur-type teeth that had been found in South America. That was the first realization that crocodiles with teeth like this were also part of the older record in Australia."

Prof. Archer notes that he and his team have been working in Murgon since 1983, often literally digging in the backyard of enthusiastic residents.

"That year, UNSW colleague Henk Godhelp and I drove to Murgon, parked the car on the side of the road, grabbed our shovels, knocked on the door and asked if we could dig up their backyard," he says.

After explaining the potential prehistoric material beneath the sheep paddock and mentioning that fossil turtle shells had already been found nearby, the property owners eagerly agreed.

"From subsequent excavations, that's where the eggshell pieces came from. And, quite clearly, from the many fascinating animals that we've already found in this deposit since 1983, we know that with more digging there will be a lot more surprises to come."

How Fossils Help Guide Modern Conservation

For Prof. Archer, these discoveries serve a dual purpose. They illuminate Australia's ancient past -- and they can also inform strategies to protect vulnerable species facing rapid environmental change today.

He has been part of a multi-institutional effort known as the 'Burramys Project', which aims to rescue the Mountain Pygmy-possum (Burramys parvus) from the brink of extinction.

This alpine species is under severe pressure from climate change. The team found that its ancient relatives thrived for nearly 25 million years in lowland temperate rainforests, including those that once covered the Riversleigh region between 25 and 12 million years ago.

From this evidence, researchers concluded that the ancestors of modern Mountain Pygmy-possums probably followed rainforest habitats uphill during a warm and wet phase in the Pleistocene Epoch. When the alpine climate eventually cooled, the species developed survival strategies such as hibernation.

A few years ago, Prof. Archer's group collaborated with Trevor Evans of Secret Creek Sanctuary and received support from multiple organizations, including the Prague Zoo in the Czech Republic, to establish a breeding program in non-alpine rainforest near Lithgow.

Today, the Mountain Pygmy-possum population is thriving in that environment -- consistent with predictions drawn from the fossil record.

As climate change threatens more species, Prof. Archer says these findings show that not every story ends in decline.

"The Burramys Project is a demonstration that, at least in some cases, we can develop strategies to save endangered species," he says. "Clues from fossil records matter," he says. "Not just to understand the past, but also to help secure the future."

The newly named croc species, Wakkaoolithus godthelpi, honors the Wakka Wakka First Nations people whose Country includes the fossil site. The name also recognizes Henk Godthelp, a longtime member of the UNSW paleontology team alongside Prof. Archer, Professor Sue Hand and many other researchers and students.
Janine Mule at Borough Hall in St. George on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. Borough President Vito Fossella and District Attorney Michael E. McMahon's office announced justice for a Staten Island family victimized by license plate fraud on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. Janine Mule stood up for her 91-year-old father, who was the victim. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Janine Mule, an Annadale resident, looks after her 91-year-old father, Nicholas Mattia.

One day in October 2024, she was sorting through her dads mail when she came upon a ticket. While many on Staten Island have been caught by speed cameras going just a little too fast, something didnt add up.

Mattia, a Rossville resident, rarely drives his car, using it predominantly to take a trip to Walgreens or church. And strangely, she noticed, although the license plates on the ticket matched up, the vehicle make did not.

Hundreds of tickets

When I first got the first ticket I went to Motor Vehicle because I just assumed it was Motor Vehicles screw up, because there were two of the same plates out there, so thats what I thought, Mule said. I went and they verified that only his (Hyundai) Sonata was attached to that plate and they were kind of baffled as to what to do next.

Mule continued to carry on with her life, but soon enough, more and more tickets began to come in the mail.

In response, Mule would write on the tickets that they were not associated to her fathers vehicle and send them back.

From the left, Chief of RCDA's Detective Investigators Squad David Nilsen, DA's office press secretary James Clinton, Borough President Vito Fossella, Janine Mule, Deputy Chief Mike Dimino and Senior Investigator David Casey announce justice for a Staten Island family victimized by license plate fraud on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel)

I wouldnt pay, because I knew I would never get that money back and I knew it wasnt us, she added.

Eventually, Mule was referred to the police in January.

Within weeks she says authorities found the vehicle responsible for racking up fees under Mattias name. As it turns out, the suspect in this case had allegedly used blue tape to turn an F on their plate into an E.

Mule told the Advance/SILive.com that police removed the tape and it was quiet for a little bit before the suspect returned to the same ways.

I just assumed that at some point these letters were going to catch up and they were going to know that it wasnt my dad, but it didnt really matter because my fathers car got booted even with his new plate, Mule noted. Because the old plate  even though it was surrendered  theyre connected still, to him.

In search of some assistance, Mule contacted Borough President Vito Fossellas office via social media sometime in late July/early August. Within hours she received a response and since then, detectives have been on the case.

Borough President Vito Fossella speaks at the press conference. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel)

In all, Mule believes she has received hundreds of tickets in the mail tallying up to thousands of dollars.

Fortunately for Mule, officials have been able to identify the suspect in this case and she will not be held responsible for paying these unwarranted tickets and fees.

Officials are on the case

It was announced during a press conference at Borough Hall in St. George on Friday that investigators know who is responsible for racking up these fees and, in turn, victimizing this Staten Island family.

Thank God my dad has me, because if theres another senior citizen out there who doesnt have anybody, who would help him? Mule told reporters.

Fossella highlighted the efforts of investigators and the office of District Attorney Michael E. McMahon in assisting Mule. In particular, Fossella thanked Chief of the Richmond County District Attorneys Offices Detective Investigators Squad David Nilsen, Deputy Chief Mike Dimino and Senior Investigator David Casey.

Its not a victimless crime, Fossella said. Just think of all the stress and the pressure this family was put through because of some dirtbag...there will be justice.

James Clinton, press secretary for the Richmond County District Attorney's Office, at the podium as Borough President Vito Fossella announces justice for a Staten Island family victimized by license plate fraud on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel)

James Clinton, press secretary for the Richmond County District Attorneys Office, explained that there is an open and active investigation into this matter and a suspect has been identified. However, as it is an active investigation, the office could not provide further information on the individual.

Before I close, I want to be very clear that ghost plates, altered plates, toll violators, they will be held accountable on Staten Island, he added. As the borough president said, this is not a victimless crime; it will not be tolerated in our borough. And frankly, its an insult to the hundreds of thousands of law-abiding, toll-paying Staten Islanders. And those who fly flagrantly in the face of our laws are going to be held accountable and our office will not relent in our pursuit of justice for those victims and the people of Staten Island.

Clinton highlighted the advocacy of Fossella and McMahon for pushing to implement license plate readers, which played a major role in assisting investigators.

Nilsen urged residents who may be receiving summonses not associated to their vehicle to report it at their local police precinct.

When a police report was made for Janines dad on the stolen plate, it triggers the NYPD to put in an alarm on that plate, he said. And because the alarm was put on the plate, we were able to identify who the person was who altered their plate.
Jacqueline Filis, executive director of the YMCA of Greater New York Counseling Service, speaks at the Staten Island Fentanyl and Overdose Task Force news conference at the office of District Attorney Michael E. McMahon in St. George on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Dangerous combinations of fentanyl mixed with cocaine, veterinary medications and other substances are causing overdoses on Staten Island and across New York City  a trend that prompted a warning from the boroughs Fentanyl and Overdose Task Force.

While the Island experienced a 49% reduction in accidental deaths from overdoses last year, fentanyl remains a serious threat to the health and well-being of people suffering from substance use disorders, according to the task forces final report.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine, is the leading cause of fatal overdoses on Staten Island and the rest of New York City.

A significant reduction in the flow of fentanyl into the United States from Mexico is noted in the report, which attributes this development to enhanced law enforcement and increased public awareness about the dangers of that opioid.

With the decrease in fentanyl availability, cocaine and heroin use is on the uptick citywide, according to the report.

Drug traffickers have reacted to the decrease in fentanyl by combining that opioid with other potentially deadly substances in order to maintain supply and potency, according to the report, which was issued at a news conference Wednesday at the office of District Attorney Michael E. McMahon.

The Staten Island Fentanyl and Overdose Task Force reveals its legislative agenda during a news conference Wednesday hosted by District Attorney Michael E. McMahon at his office in St. George on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. Meagan Sills, president of Northwell Staten Island University Hospital, speaks at the podium. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel)

Fentanyl remains present in nearly every street substance, said Meagan Sills, president of Northwell Staten Island University Hospital.

She warned that more dangerous illicit opioids are on the horizon.

Looking ahead to 2026, we expect to see new synthetic opioids emerge that are even more potent than what weve seen today, Sills said.

When victims have more than one drug in their systems, its commonly referred to as polysubstance use.

Polysubstance use is rising, which makes overdose response more complex and unpredictable, Sills said.

The Staten Island Fentanyl and Overdose Task Force reveals its legislative agenda during a news conference Wednesday hosted by District Attorney Michael E. McMahon at his office in St. George on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. Dr. Joel Idowu, chairman of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Sciences at Richmond University Medical Center, speaks at the podium. Ileana Acosta, director of behavioral health at the Staten Island Performing Provider System, stands behind the podium. McMahon is on the right. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel)

Dr. Joel Idowu, chairman of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Sciences at Richmond University Medical Center, said that his department requests the autopsy report for every client who dies. Sometimes he is amazed and shocked by the number of substances detected in one person.

So that tells me that really theres a lot of work to be done because we really havent gotten to the root of the problem, Idowu said, adding that he is committed to working with the task force toward the goal of zero deaths from drug overdoses.

The NYPD and the city Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor were among the sources who contributed information about drug trends listed in the report.

NYPD Deputy Chief Amir Yakatally of Patrol Borough Staten Island speaks at the Staten Island Fentanyl and Overdose Task Force news conference at the office of District Attorney Michael E. McMahon in St. George on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. Ileana Acosta, director of behavioral health at the Staten Island Performing Provider System, stands behind the podium. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel)

NYPD Deputy Chief Amir Yakatally of Patrol Borough Staten Island stressed that public safety is a shared responsibility, a team effort among our law enforcement partners, neighboring agencies, health care providers, elected officials, and the people we proudly serve.

He attributed the 49% decrease in fatal overdoses to the collaboration of the task force members.

While we are proud of the progress we made, we know theres still a lot of work to be done, Yakatally said. We will continue standing with our partners in law enforcement, public health, and throughout the community to reduce overdoses, support recovery, and keep Staten Island families safe.

Dr. Joseph Conte, executive director of the Staten Island Performing Provider System, speaks at the Staten Island Fentanyl and Overdose Task Force news conference at the office of District Attorney Michael E. McMahon in St. George on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. Ileana Acosta, director of behavioral health at the Staten Island Performing Provider System, stands behind the podium. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel)

Fentanyl-cocaine on the rise

The report states that fentanyl-cocaine combinations are increasing. The district attorneys office has documented a notable rise in cocaine seizures throughout 2024 and into 2025, signaling an expanding trend with serious public health implications.

Heroin, the veterinary sedative xylazine and microplastics are being mixed with fentanyl. Seeping into the illegal drug pipeline are even more potent medications designed for animals, including the sedative medetomidine and the opioid carfentanil, according to the report.

McMahon, who founded the task force in 2023 with Borough President Vito Fossella, said, We continue to see fentanyl as a major driving factor in overdoses, but weve also seen the scourge of medetomidine and xylazine, as well as carfentanil.

Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid 100 times more potent than fentanyl. Even trace amounts can cause overdose, making elimination of this substance from the borough a top priority, according to the report.

Kratom, a plant-based substance, remains legal and widely available at convenience stores despite its highly addictive opioid effect. The task force is striving to have Kratom added to the state schedule of controlled substances.

Adrienne Abbate, executive director of Staten Island Partnership for Community Wellness, speaks at the Staten Island Fentanyl and Overdose Task Force news conference at the office of District Attorney Michael E. McMahon in St. George on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel)

Fake prescription pills can kill

Fake prescription pills that look like their real counterparts are being peddled on the streets and on the dark web. The pills potentially contain deadly doses of fentanyl, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administrations One Pill Can Kill campaign.

Counterfeit pills continue to pose a real danger, especially for young people who may believe that they are taking something harmless, Sills said.

Dealers are increasingly selling and distributing fake prescription pills over the internet and social media.

Seniors who purchase medications online are being targeted by criminals, according to the report.

Websites that falsely present themselves as legitimate pharmaceutical companies are selling fake prescription pills.

Additional speakers included Dr. Ginny Mantello, director of Health and Wellness at the Borough Presidents Office; Jacqueline Filis, executive director of the YMCA of Greater New York Counseling Service; and Adrienne Abbate, executive director of Staten Island Partnership for Community Wellness.
Thanksgiving meal distribution happens on Nov. 25 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the NYPD's 121 Precinct, 970 Richmond Ave., Graniteville. (Advance/SILive.com | Erik Bascome)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Local organizations are teaming up to provide Thanksgiving turkeys to Staten Island families on Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025, at the NYPD 121st Precinct, located at 970 Richmond Ave. The event runs from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and aims to ensure families can enjoy the holiday with dignity and comfort.

The Council of Jewish Organizations (COJO) is hosting the giveaway in partnership with the NYPD 121st Precinct and Community Council, with support from groups including Amazon, Calvary Chapel, Anthem, Health Education of 1199, and the NYPD Police Foundation. Volunteers from Making a Change With Kindness  Kids Give Back will assist with distribution.

Families attending the event can expect traditional Thanksgiving staples such as whole turkeys, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and seasonal vegetables, along with pantry essentials to help complete the holiday meal. Organizers emphasize that the initiative is about sharing kindness and easing the burden for those facing economic challenges.

Community leaders and NYPD officials will be on hand, including Chief Melisa Eger, Staten Island Borough Commander; Captain Jim Palaj, Commanding Officer of the 121 Precinct; and Robert Orlando, President of Community Council 121.

Organizers encourage Staten Island residents who need assistance to attend, noting that no family should miss the opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving.
John Lennon and his wife Yoko Ono speak to news media on their arrival at New York's Kennedy Airport in 1971. (AP Photo/Ron Frehm)

A new crime novel draws readers into the world of John Lennon and Yoko Onos lesser-known film venture in 1970s New York City, written by someone who was actually there.

Imagine Murder: A John Lennon Mystery is a fictional story set in spring 1972 at Joko Films, the couples SoHo-based film company. The plot centers on Lennon and Ono helping solve the murder of a film editor named Stephanie Bradley on the eve of the Watergate break-in.

According to a media release from the books publishing company, Staten Island resident and author Dean Thompson worked at the actual Joko Films during the 1970s, giving him firsthand knowledge of that world. He wrote the book with his wife, Victoria Hallerman, and friend, Thom Moon.

The story takes place during a turbulent period in American history. The U.S. was deeply involved in the Vietnam War, demonstrations were being organized nationwide, and New York City was sliding toward bankruptcy. It had been nearly two years since the Beatles broke up, and Lennon and Ono were establishing themselves as New York residents and artists.

Thompson said he resisted writing about his experiences for years. I was approached by many people to write a book about working with John, Thompson said, but I didnt want to be someone who wrote another I knew John Lennon best book. While it is fiction, I think this book gives readers a chance to experience the John Lennon I knew in a unique and personal way.

The 200-page trade paperback will be the first in a series. Fayetteville Mafia Press will publish it with distribution by Hachette on Dec. 2, 2025, which marks the 45th anniversary of Lennons death. The book will retail for $19.99.

This community news was shared by the organization featured. AI was used in an initial story draft and been review by Advance/SILive.com staff.
Its an eyesore, just horrendous for a residential area, said Robert Colacino, referring to this view of a battery energy storage system from his Great Kills backyard. (Staten Island Advance/SILive | Jan Somma-Hammel)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  For decades, Robert Colacino enjoyed the quiet of his Great Kills backyard, neighbored only by a doctors office and enveloped by at least 15 to 20 mature trees. But two years ago, developers demolished that office and leveled the trees. Now, his property abuts a battery energy storage system and is fenced in by a massive concrete wall.

Its an eyesore, just horrendous for a residential area, Colacino said. If you went to the corner of Nelson Avenue and Hylan Boulevard, where that Dunkin Donuts and the gas station are, you would swear it was a bunker in Beirut.

Colacino, a retired FDNY firefighter, said the reality of living behind a battery energy storage system was tough to accept, but when the projects developer erected three large perimeter walls around the structure last month, it added insult to injury.

The whole construction process has been nothing but a hassle, constant noise affecting quality of life, Colacino said while standing in his yard. (Staten Island Advance/SILive | Jan Somma-Hammel)

The whole construction process has been nothing but a hassle, constant noise affecting quality of life, Colacino said. And now we wake up to these massive walls. This doesnt belong here, and these walls theyve built around it for safety, for noise, whatever theyre for, prove it.

A technology that uses a group of batteries to store electrical energy, allowing the energy to be released later when needed, the storage system sites  commonly referred to as BESS  essentially act as backup power sources for homes or the grid, particularly during peak demand or power outages. They are often used in conjunction with renewable energy sources like solar power.

Developers and green energy proponents tout the lithium-ion structures  which started popping up in several NYC neighborhoods in 2022  as quiet neighbors that are a necessary agent for renewable change. They are designed to remove pressure from the citys stressed grid, using rechargeable batteries to store electrical energy from various sources, and then releasing that stored energy when needed.

Neighbors said this battery energy storage site replaced at least 15 to 20 mature trees located at 287 Nelson Ave. in Great Kills. (Staten Island Advance/SILive | Jan Somma-Hammel)

But over the past two years, borough residents and local officials have voiced concerns about their siting. Community Boards voted against their proximity to bakeries and storefronts and elected officials issued a moratorium on applications filed within residential districts. In one instance, an energy developer retracted plans to place batteries in a Bulls Head church parking lot.

Plans to construct an eight-acre battery energy storage system on a busy strip of Victory Boulevard in Travis were also recently scrapped after the company responsible for its development missed several key decommissioning plan deadlines.

This particular battery energy storage system, located at 287 Nelson Ave., and sandwiched between several residential homes and a Citgo gas station, was allowed because of the propertys as-of-right zoning  even though its placement was questioned and battled by local politicians since 2023.

The walls that now surround it are different and significantly larger than those installed at other battery energy sites in the borough, but NineDot Energy, the projects developer, noted that they are part of NYCs standard regulatory process for fire safety and noise mitigation.

Three large concrete perimeter walls were constructed in October to surround the Great Kills battery energy storage site, a step that developers say is part of NYCs standard regulatory process for fire safety and noise mitigation. (Staten Island Advance/SILive | Jan Somma-Hammel)

Every site we build includes some form of perimeter walls or fencing, designed in accordance with FDNY and Department of Buildings requirements for all battery storage projects in New York City, NineDot previously told the Advance/SILive.com. Whats being built at the Nelson Ave. site are not retaining walls. They are engineered sound and fire barriers that were reviewed and approved as part of the standard FDNY and DOB permitting process.

According to Nine Dot, the design of the barriers is guided by a Hazard Mitigation Analysis and an Acoustical Analysis, which evaluate fire safety and noise mitigation to ensure full compliance with FDNY rules and the NYC Noise Code.

Every site we build has walls or fencing around it. While each site design is unique, the rules we follow are the ones laid out by the FDNY and DOB for all battery storage projects in New York City, the company noted on its website.

The battery energy storage site on Nelson Avenue is sandwiched between several residential homes and a Citgo gas station. (Staten Island Advance/SILive | Jan Somma-Hammel)

NineDot added: Overall, these walls are another example of our commitment to safety and our strong partnership with FDNY  widely regarded as the most expert fire department in the world.

But Colacino said he does not find solace in that reasoning and even shared video with the Advance/SILive.com of the persistent hum emitted by the battery packs that are adjacent to his property.

If these sites are so safe and quiet, why build the wall? he asked.

Colacinos neighbors said they agree.

A green construction fence was erected by developers two years ago. Colacino planted bushes in hopes of concealing it. (Staten Island Advance/SILive | Jan Somma-Hammel)

This is a nightmare, one resident said, requesting anonymity. I used to be able to see the ocean from my kitchen window and now all I see is a wall.

Another resident added: It really is shocking that this can happen almost overnight. It used to be so beautiful here, so many trees. If I took one tree down on my property I would face a ton of fines. They changed the whole face of this neighborhood with absolutely no penalty.
Sam Pirozzolo read his "Staten Island Independence Declaration" at historic site, calling for updated secession study and claiming the borough is unfairly treated by NYC government. Advance/SILive | Nicolette Cavallaro

STATEN ISLAND, NY  A Staten Island elected official said Friday that hes ready to lead a charge to consideronce againwhether the borough should become an independent city.

State Assemblymember Sam Pirozzolo, a Republican, held an event at the corner of Richmond Road and New Dorp Lane to generate interest in an updated review of Staten Island secession, as well as to read his own Staten Island Independence Declaration.

We the citizens of Staten Island declare, when in the course of civic events it becomes necessary for one borough to dissolve the political bonds which have connected it with a distant and unresponsive government, we should declare the causes which impel us to seek separation, reads the start of Pirozzolos document.

Pirozzolo had published a video on social media inviting the public to join him at the event, which follows decades of conversation about Staten Island forming its own city, most recently in 2023 when Borough President Vito Fossella said his office would fund a new study to learn what an independent Staten Island would look like.

Sam Pirozzolo read his "Staten Island Independence Declaration" at historic site, calling for updated secession study and claiming the borough is unfairly treated by NYC government. Advance/SILive | Nicolette Cavallaro

In the 1990s, a local referendum found that 65% of Staten Island voters supported secession, but implementation was opposed by the city government and was blocked by the State Assembly. Years later in 2019, then-Councilmember Joe Borelli, a Republican who represented the South Shore, also introduced a set of bills to study the feasibility of secession, with support from another Republican state lawmaker, Assemblymember Michael Reilly.

Although Fridays event closely follows the mayoral election of democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani, Pirozzolo railed against policy positions of past, current and incoming city leaders.

Despite some reservations about Mamdani, most of Staten Islands Republican elected officials have expressed hope for a collaborative relationship with the incoming mayor, while still vowing to fight for Staten Island values.

A historic site for independence

Fridays event took place at the former site of the Rose and Crown Tavern, where the Declaration of Independence was first read by British soldiers on Staten Island in 1776.

Pirozzolo drew parallels between the revolutionaries grievances in that moment and those he stated against modern city governance, including a judges recent decision to thow out a City of Yes lawsuit, and what he characterizes in a video as being overtaxed with symbolic representation.

He said the the city has ignored and abandoned the borough.

We have petitioned time and time again for fairness, for reliable transportation, for safe streets and for our local voices to be heard, the document reads.

Sam Pirozzolo read his "Staten Island Independence Declaration" at historic site, calling for updated secession study and claiming the borough is unfairly treated by NYC government. Advance/SILive | Nicolette Cavallaro

This is about the freedom of Staten Islanders

Pirozzolo made clear that it would take many years to see an independent Staten Island, and said he hopes to lead a push to update the previously completed secession study and prove that the borough could be self-sustaining.

Some concerns about secession he addressed included maintaining first responder services, building an education system and the potential for taxes to increase.

Everybody whos concerned about, my taxes might go up. They might, but Ive got news for you. Theyre going up anyway, no matter what you do.

I say that we should spend that money for Staten Island schools, Staten Island roads, Pirozzolo said. This is about the freedom of Staten Islanders to choose their own fate moving forward.

In his new, nearly 500-word written declaration, the assemblymember claimed that Staten Island is treated unfairly. The document states that Staten Islanders are entitled to representation, fairness and respect, and argues the current and incoming government are destructive to these principles. It also criticizes city leadership for neglecting the boroughs infrastructure and businesses.

Sam Pirozzolo read his "Staten Island Independence Declaration" at historic site, calling for updated secession study and claiming the borough is unfairly treated by NYC government. Advance/SILive | Nicolette Cavallaro

Sam Pirozzolo read his "Staten Island Independence Declaration" at historic site, calling for updated secession study and claiming the borough is unfairly treated by NYC government. Advance/SILive | Nicolette Cavallaro

Our taxes are collected eagerly, yet our roads crumble, our ferries falter and our small businesses suffocate under regulations written for other boroughs. We are taxed as if we are Manhattan, but we are treated as if we are expendable, he read. City Hall, instead of serving all five boroughs equally, has capitulated to the growing influence of the socialist ideologues who seek to reshape New York into a laboratory for their failed political experiments. They promote policies that demonize law enforcement, crush working class homeowners and drain opportunity from communities that value hard work and independence. The city no longer represents a balance of voices.

The small group of gathered Staten Islanders were encouraged to sign the new written declaration after Pirozzolo became the first signatory.

He noted legislation has not yet been put forward to revisit the study, but said he would build a coalition of local officials to support it.

The incoming Mamdani administration did not respond to a request for comment by time of publication.
In this photo from 2024, a SIM15 express bus pulls out from a stop on Amboy Road in Oakwood. (Advance/SILive.com | Mike Matteo)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Getting from Staten Island to the rest of New York City can be a costly endeavor, especially when a free transfer is no longer free.

Recently, a Staten Island commuter contacted the Advance/SILive.com with concerns that free transfers between express buses were no longer available.

[Transfers] were free with Metrocard, but I was charged full fare twice with OMNY, said Konstantin Klokachev of Old Town.

According to Klokachev, he has previously been able to transfer for free between the SIM15 and SIM10 during his commute.

In September, however, he noticed he was being charged for this transfer.

OMNY transaction records provided by Klokachev show that in July, he was able to transfer from one express bus on Staten Island to another, within an approximately 10-minute window, for free.

More recent records from October, however, show Klokachev getting charged for two separate fares on express bus rides less than 10 minutes apart.

When Klokachev first reached out to OMNY, he said he was told that the transfers were not free.

But after contacting the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, he said he was told that transfers were only free going from one borough to another, not between routes in the same borough.

While looking for an answer, Klokachev said he found an MTA document on MetroCard fares from 2023 that states that passengers are entitled to transfer to any express bus route except a bus bearing the same route designation within a two-hour window.

He said he was unable, however, to find similar guidance for OMNY, which will replace the MetroCard starting next year.

I cant find anything about OMNY. I tried the transfer myself and was charged twice for the first and second buses, Klokachev explained.

I wonder if it is a change between Metrocard and OMNY, or a mistake?

When asked for clarification on express bus transfers, a spokesperson from the MTA confirmed that riders should be getting free transfers within a two-hour window, as long as riders go between two separate routes.

In addition, the spokesperson said that the agency is working on a fix for the issue that causes commuters to be charged twice.

We are resolving a programming issue caused by human error and reviewing transfer records to ensure no customers are charged for free transfers, said MTA Spokesperson Joana Flores.
The New York Capitol building is seen, June 30, 2023, in Albany, N.Y. Gov. Hochul orders flags lowered on Nov. 15 to honor the 11-year veteran who died in the line of duty while fighting a five-alarm blaze in Brownsville. AP

Governor Kathy Hochul has ordered that flags on all New York State government buildings will be flown at half-staff on Saturday, Nov. 15 in honor of Patrick Brady, a New York City Fire Department firefighter who died in the line-of-duty.

Brady, 42, who served 11 years with the fire department, died on Nov. 8, 2025, while battling a five-alarm fire with Ladder Company 120 in Brownsville, Brooklyn.

The men and women of New Yorks Fire Department risk their lives every single day to protect ours  that is exactly what Firefighter Patrick Brady did while battling a five-alarm fire on Saturday, Hochul said. Firefighter Brady gave his life in service to his fellow New Yorkers, and I am grateful for his courage and 11 years with the department working every day to protect our city. I express my deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues as they honor his life.

According to Eyewitness News, Bradys wake was held at Marine Park Funeral Home in Brooklyn on Friday, and his funeral will be held at the Church of St. Francis de Sales in Belle Harbor, New York on Nov. 15, at 11 a.m.

Flags will also be lowered concurrently in honor of former Vice President Dick Cheney, who died on Nov. 3, 2025.
The NYPD is asking for the publics help to locate a 17-year-old boy who has been reported missing from Elm Park. Aaron Beswick was last seen leaving his residence on Morningstar Road around 9 a.m. on Thursday, according to a statement from the NYPDs Deputy Commissioner of Public Information. (Courtesy of the NYPD)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  The NYPD is asking for the publics help to locate a 17-year-old boy who has been reported missing from Elm Park.

Aaron Beswick was last seen leaving his residence on Morningstar Road around 9 a.m. on Thursday, according to a statement from the NYPDs Deputy Commissioner of Public Information.

Police described the boy as standing about 6 feet tall and weighing about 130 pounds. He has a thin build, medium complexion, brown eyes and black hair.

The NYPD did not provide a clothing description.

Police provided a photo of the boy to the media.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of this individual 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 tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, or on X @NYPDTips.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued several recalls over the past week. AP

Several consumer goods, food products and vehicles were recalled over the past week, including a popular baby formula that has led to 15 infant hospitalizations.

Heres a look at various recalls that have been issued in the past week.

A baby formula recall has been expanded after two more infants were hospitalized this week connected to a botulism outbreak, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The CDC and U.S. Food and Drug Administration and public health officials in several states have been investigating a botulism outbreak linked to formula  which has led to a recall of products from ByHeart Inc.

ByHeart initially recalled two batches of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula.

After two more infant hospitalizations were reported in the United States this week, ByHeart Inc. recalled all ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula products on Tuesday.

There are now 15 reported cases  which were all hospitalizations  across 12 states.

The CDC urged parents and caregivers to stop using any ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula immediately. This includes all lot numbers and all sizes of cans and single serve packets.

The baby formula is available for sale online and at major retailers nationwide.

Infant botulism occurs when swallowed spores from a type of bacteria called Clostridium botulinum infects a babys large intestine and produces a toxin. Infant botulism often starts with constipation, but is usually first noticed as difficulty feeding (sucking and swallowing), a weak and altered cry, and loss of muscle tone, according to the CDC.

Parents and caregivers should not use any ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula. If possible, record the lot number and best by date.

Wash items and surfaces that may have touched the formula with hot soapy water or a dishwasher.

Seek immediate medical care if your infant has consumed this formula and has any of these symptoms:

Poor feeding

Loss of head control

Difficulty swallowing

Decreased facial expression

Symptoms of infant botulism can take as long as several weeks to develop, so parents should remain vigilant if they used ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula, stated the CDC.

Consumers with questions can contact ByHeart at hello@byheart.com, visit byheart.com, or call 1-833-429-4327.

Costco has issued a recall for nearly 1 million bottles of a popular wine.

F&F Fine Wines International is recalling approximately 941,000 Kirkland Signature Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG bottles, as the bottles can break or shatter, posing a laceration risk.

There have been 10 reports of the bottles shattering or breaking, resulting in one laceration injury, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The product was sold in a green bottle with purple foil on the top and a purple label with the words Kirkland Signature Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG featured. The wine was priced at about $8 per bottle.

It was sold in mostly Midwest stores from April through August 2025.

If you have a recalled bottle, stop use immediately and discard in your household trash. Contact F&F Fine Wines at 786-810-7132 or email customercare@ethicawines.com, for questions regarding this recall.

These bottles should not be returned to Costco.

Honda has issued a safety recall because of an accessory sold for one of its most popular car models.

Around 406,290 vehicles are affected by the recall, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Documents filed with the highway safety agency stated that 18-inch alloy wheels that were sold as accessories for the ever-popular Honda Civic could detach from the vehicle.

The issue stems from lug nuts on the wheels that were not properly installed during production. The wheel nuts could loosen and detach while operating the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

The recall currently impacts Honda Civics sold under model years from 2016 to 2021 with the optional 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

Owners will be contacted by Honda to bring their vehicle into a dealership. There, dealers will inspect and replace the hubs and wheels as necessary, free of charge.

The manufacturer will begin contacting vehicle owners by mail on Dec. 8.

Honda owners can also call the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations safety hotline at (888) 327-4236 to see if they are affected by the recall.

Parents are being warned about certain childrens toys that are being recalled due to major safety concerns, according to a notice posted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

About 64,000 Inkari Plush Alpaca Toys have been recalled because the eyes on the dolls can detach and pose a choking hazard, especially to young children.

The products were sold from November 2020 through July 2025 on websites like Amazon and Etsy, and were marketed for children under three years old.

The stuffed wool toys were sold in four different sizes: the 6-inch mini, the 9-inch small, the 12-inch medium and the 19-inch large.

The recall covers five color collections of the plush alpaca toys: naturals, baristas, rainbow, monsterfluffs, and limited edition, according to the CPSC.

Consumers are being advised to immediately stop using the recalled plush toys and contact the manufacturer for a full refund.

To qualify for the refund, owners will be asked to cut the fur of the toy and send a photo to a company-operated email.

The Inkari company can be reached via email at support@inkari-alpaca.com .

So far, no injuries have been reported in connection with the toys.

Vevor is recalling about 1,020 baby swings sold across the U.S. due to a serious safety hazard that violates federal standards and poses a risk of infant suffocation, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The recalled Vevor Baby Swings were marketed for infant sleep and feature an incline angle greater than 10 degrees, which violates the mandatory safety standard for infant sleep products and the ban on inclined sleepers under the Safe Sleep for Babies Act.

While no injuries have been reported, the CPSC warns that the product poses a deadly suffocation risk and urges consumers to stop using the swings immediately.

The recall includes white/gray and black/gray swings labeled Multi-Function Electric Swing with model numbers BB501K, BB702A, and BB005K. The swings were sold online at Vevor.com and Amazon.com between January and August 2025 for $65 to $80.

Consumers should contact Sanven Technology for a full refund. To complete the process, users must remove the swing cover, cut it in half, write Recalled on the base with a permanent marker, and send a photo of the destroyed product to recalling@vevor.com.

For more information, visit vevor.com and click Product Recall at the top of the homepage.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has updated the risk level for about 23,000 pounds of pre-cooked scrambled egg products that were recently recalled due to the potential presence of a dangerous bacteria.

The agency recently classified recalled Echo Lake Foods Cage Free Precooked Scrambled Eggs as a Class I recall on Nov. 6, which is the most serious health risk classification.

According to the FDA, a Class I recall is a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.

A recall of these items was made on Oct. 23, as the products could be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. It involves products with lot number 5164 and an expiration date of Dec. 13, 2026.

The egg products were sold to consumers in California, who were informed of the recall by letter.

Listeria is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, according to the FDA.

While 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.
Renovations to Sobel Court Park in Clifton will be discussed during an upcoming Community Board 1 meeting. (Google Maps)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  The reconstruction of a North Shore park will be discussed this week at one of several public Staten Island Community Board meetings.

Renovations to Sobel Court Park in Clifton tops one of the agendas of Community Board 1.

The following is a listing of planned meetings provided by representatives of each of Staten Islands three Community Boards.

Community Board 1

On Monday, Nov. 17, there will be a virtual meeting of the Cultural Affairs Committee. During the meeting, members will discuss the effectiveness of the boards Zoom page information, traffic to the site and how to augment it.

There will also be a review of local cultural sites. To join the meeting, visit Zoom. The meeting ID is 831 1561 8721. The passcode is M2CSkc.

On Tuesday, Nov. 18, there will be several committee meetings.

At 6:30 p.m. the West Brighton/Randall Manor Committee will meet virtually. Liquor license renewals for the following businesses will be discussed:

Funky Monkey, 1205 Forest Ave., West Brighton

The Point Tavern, 839 Forest Ave., West Brighton

Sushi Wen Inc., 856 Castleton Ave., Randall Manor

To join the meeting, visit Zoom. The meeting ID is 275 566 6837. The passcode is E3sv3p.

Also on Tuesday, a meeting of the New Brighton/St. George/Tompkinsville Committee will be held virtually at 6:30 p.m. To join, visit the Zoom link. The meeting ID is 988 0378 9534 and the passcode is 712393.

Liquor license renewals and applications for the following businesses will also be discussed:

Casablanca Restaurant, 155 Lafayette Ave., New Brighton

Shake Shack, 33 Richmond Terrace, St. George

Cafe St. Marks LLC, 430 St. Marks Place, St. George

The Rosebank/Shore Acres Area Committee will also hold a meeting on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. in the board office, 1 Edgewater Plaza, Room 217, Rosebank. There is no specific agenda.

And the Mariners Harbor/Port Richmond Area Committee will meet via Zoom at 7 p.m. on Tuesday.

On the agenda are liquor license applications for the following businesses:

Queen Frog, Inc., 1566 Forest Ave., Port Richmond Center

Ramzi Deli Corp., 140 Morningstar Rd., Elm Park

Miyabi II Asian Fusion, 1348 Forest Ave., Port Richmond

Cajun Restaurant Forest LLC, Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar, 1756 Forest Ave., Graniteville

The meeting ID is 820 3348 0113 and the passcode is 911178.

On Wednesday, Nov. 19, at 5:30 p.m., the Silver Lake/Sunnyside/Grymes Hill/Westerleigh/Willowbrook Area Committee will meet via Zoom.

Victory Boulevard bus lanes will be on the agenda.

To join, visit Zoom. The meeting ID is 736 422 6579.

Also on the agenda are liquor license applications and renewals for the following businesses:

Avocado Sushi, 1310 Forest Ave., Port Richmond

Sakari Ramen & Izakaya, 965 Richmond Ave., Graniteville

On Thursday, Nov. 20, at 6:30 p.m., there will be a hybrid meeting of the Stapleton/Clifton/Concord/Park Hill Area Committee and Parks Committee virtually and in person at the Stapleton Library, 132 Canal St., Stapleton.

During the meeting, there will be a presentation about the reconstruction of Sobel Court Park, Clifton.

To join virtually, visit Zoom. The meeting ID is 852 8932 8780.

Community Board 2

Community Board 2 will hold a meeting of its full board on Tuesday, Nov. 18, at 7 p.m. in the Joan and Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island, 1466 Manor Rd., Sea View.

There is no set agenda.

Community Board 3

Community Board 3 has no meetings scheduled this week.

Open to the public

All Community Board meetings and meetings of their committees are open to the public. They provide an excellent opportunity for residents to learn about happenings in their neighborhood and surrounding areas. Below is more information about the Islands three Community Boards:

Community Board 1

Arlington  Castleton Corners  Clifton  Concord  Elm Park  Fort Wadsworth  Graniteville  Grymes Hill  Livingston  Mariners Harbor  New Brighton  Port Richmond  Randall Manor  Rosebank  St. George  Shore Acres  Silver Lake  Stapleton  Sunnyside  Tompkinsville  West Brighton  Westerleigh

The board chairman is Nicholas Siclari. The district manager is Joan Cusack. The telephone number is 718-981-6900.

Community Board 2

Arrochar  Bloomfield  Bulls Head  Chelsea  Dongan Hills  Egbertville  Emerson Hill  Grant City  Grasmere  High Rock  Lighthouse Hill  Midland Beach  New Dorp  New Springville  Oakwood  Ocean Breeze  Old Town  Richmond  South Beach  Todt Hill  Travis

The phone number is 718-568-3581. The fax number is 718-568-3595. The chairman is Fred Guinta. The district manager is Debra A. Derrico.

Community Board 3

Annadale  Arden Heights  Bay Terrace  Charleston  Eltingville  Great Kills  Greenridge  Huguenot  New Dorp  Oakwood  Pleasant Plains  Princes Bay  Richmond Valley  Richmond  Rossville  Tottenville  Woodrow
Shown are Cheryl Grogan-Wagner, Regina Paleau and Emma White in "Three Tall Women." Courtesy of Jodi Gardi

STATEN ISLAND, NY  Sea View Playwrights Theatre will open Edward Albees Pulitzer Prize-winning play Three Tall Women today for a two-weekend run at its Staten Island location.

The production features Regina Paleau as A, Cheryl Grogan-Wagner as B, and Emma White as C, under the direction of Craig Stoebling. The show will run for five performances through Nov. 23.

Albees play tells the story of three women in two distinct parts. The first half presents a naturalistic conversation between a wealthy nonagenarian known as A, her middle-aged caretaker B, and a young lawyer C. In the second half, the three women transform into personifications of the same woman at different ages  92, 52, and 26  as they confront her life, memories and regrets.

The play is largely autobiographical and based on Albees contentious relationship with his adopted mother. It explores themes of aging, memory, and self-deception through the interactions of the three characters.

Three Tall Women premiered off-Broadway in 1994 and won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama that year. The play made its London West End debut in 1995, featuring Maggie Smith in the role of A, and returned to Broadway in 2018 with Glenda Jackson as A and Laurie Metcalf as B, winning the Tony Award for Best Revival of a Play.

Albee has long been considered one of Americas foremost playwrights. His works include The Zoo Story, Whos Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and The Goat, or Who Is Sylvia? In 2023, Sea View Playwrights Theatre produced Albees Whos Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and At Home at the Zoo, which were partially funded by a NYSCA grant through Staten Island Arts.

Performances of Three Tall Women are scheduled for today, Saturday, Nov. 15, at 8 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 16, at 2 p.m.; Friday, Nov. 21, at 8 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 22, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 23, at 2 p.m. The theater is located at 460 Brielle Ave., Sea View.

This community news was shared by the organization featured. AI was used in an initial story draft and has been reviewed by Advance/SILive.comstaff.
Mar Gregorios Orthodox Syrian Church of India marked its 50th year on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1. Courtesy of Mar Gregorios Orthodox Syrian Church of India

STATEN ISLAND, NY-- A local church recently marked its golden anniversary with a two-day celebration featuring traditional masses and a community procession.

Mar Gregorios Orthodox Syrian Church of India, located at 175 Brielle Ave. in Sea View, has a past worthy of a long celebration.

According to the written history, the story began in 1968 when Syrian Christian families from Kerala, India settled on Staten Island and faced the challenge of establishing a place to worship. By 1974, 13 people gathered in an apartment and decided to begin services in a chapel of a Roman Catholic Church in Tompkinsville.

The group held its first worship service on Aug. 11, 1974, naming itself St. Thomas Orthodox Syrian Congregation. The following February, the congregation incorporated under the title of Mar Gregorios Orthodox Syrian Church of India.

In 1977, the church brought a priest from Kerala to serve the growing community. The congregation purchased its first property in 1979, converting a single-family house into a church. Growth continued, and a decade later, the church bought a Citibank building and transformed it into a worship space.

Administrative changes came in 1993 when the Patriarch of Antioch separated the Kerala parishes from the Archdiocese of the Syrian Orthodox Church in the U.S. and Canada, establishing the Malankara Archdiocese of the Syrian Orthodox Church in North America.

The church faced its most difficult period starting in 2001, when a split caused a legal battle that forced many families who supported the majority position to lose their church and assets.

The congregation regrouped, and on May 27, 2007, acquired a single-family house at the center of the Malankarese community. After renovating the house into a church, the congregation celebrated its first Holy Qurbana at the new location at 175 Brielle Avenue on April 18, 2010.

Mar Gregorios Orthodox Syrian Church of India marked its 50th year on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1. Courtesy of Mar Gregorios Orthodox Syrian Church of India

This years grand celebration began on Friday, Oct. 31, with meetings led by Rev. Fr. Thomas Mathew, Rev. Fr. Mathew Thomas, Rev. Fr. Cherian Mundackal, Very Rev. Yesudasan Pappan Chor Episcopos, Rev. Fr. Sunny Joseph, Rev. Fr. Basil Mannathikulam and Rev. Fr. Dr. C. K. Rajan.

The Sunday school, Marth Mariam Vanitha Samajam womens group, and the MGOSM youth association presented reports highlighting their activities from the past year. After that, churchgoers participated in an evening prayer and devotional message from Rev. Fr. Basil Mannathikulam.

Saturday, Nov. 1, served as the main celebration day, featuring multiple religious leaders conducting Holy Qurbana. The mass was celebrated by His Grace Zachariah Mar Nicholovos, who is the Metropolitan of the Northeast American Diocese along with Very Rev. Paulose Adai Chor Episcopos, Rev. Fr. Sunny Joseph and Rev. Fr. Cherian Mundackal.

Mar Gregorios Orthodox Syrian Church of India marked its 50th year on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1. Courtesy of Mar Gregorios Orthodox Syrian Church of India

The formal religious ceremonies were followed by a decadent, colorful street procession departing from the church grounds.

At the end of the route, the church revealed their 50th Anniversary publication, titled The Golden Jubilee Souvenir, a book to commemorate their history, and celebrate their future.

Its a book that shows things about our church. Who we are as a church. Its a way for people to wish or congratulate the church, said Linda John, the churchs secretary. Theres also some stories and writings of people, a congratulatory message.
After the Nov. 4 election  which saw Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa soundly defeated even on Staten Island  GOP Chairman Michael Tannousis called the results a victory. Really?

I dont see it that way. To me, it was a loss within a divided and distracted party.

More importantly, we now have a socialist in power because of the lack of judgment and leadership within the local GOP, which seems to think that ranting, raving, and cursing out anyone who disagrees is a winning formula. Hint: its not.

In what became the worst-kept secret on Staten Island, the Republican Party quietly abandoned the boroughs top Republican running for re-election  Borough President Vito Fossella.

Why? Because he had the courage to stand up to the gang, as many now call party leadership.

This group pushed out respected figures like Mary Reilly from the Executive Committee while continuing the bad habit of running friends and staffers regardless of ability or philosophy.

The Guy Molinari days of choosing the best person to represent the people are long gone. Todays leadership seems more interested in holding power than doing whats right for the party or Staten Islanders.

Just ask anyone interested in becoming a judicial candidate  theyll tell you exactly which rings need to be kissed.

Speaking of judges: What should have been an easy win for Judge Remy Smith ended in defeat. Instead of supporting the entire Republican ticket, party leaders fixated on Sliwa  a perennial candidate whose campaign barely changes from one failed run to the next.

The results speak for themselves. Sliwa received about 30,000 votes on Staten Island  roughly 40,000 fewer than he did in 2021, and around 65,000 fewer than Borough President Fossella.

Sliwa even finished third, behind the socialist candidate, who received roughly 33,000 votes.

One Republican elected official, Frank Morano, even appeared to openly support the Democratic candidate for borough president. The partys response? Silence.

Despite these deceitful efforts, Fossella still received the most votes of any candidate on the ballot  more than all three Republican City Council candidates combined.

Party leaders made the Sliwa campaign their top priority. Yet smarter Republican voters overwhelmingly rejected that advice because they knew the real priority was stopping a socialist from taking City Hall  and that Sliwa had no chance of winning.

That misplaced effort hurt strong Republican candidates down the line and revealed how out of touch party leadership has become with both its members and everyday Staten Islanders.

Now the local GOP seems convinced that ranked choice voting (RCV) is the only way to win citywide. Thats simply not true. Republicans like Rudy Giuliani and Michael Bloomberg both won New York City elections without RCV  Bloomberg did it three times.

The truth is, RCV has helped candidates like Zohran Mamdani secure victories within the Democratic Party, not Republicans. And who remains one of RCVs biggest champions  the same system that helped elect Mamdani? Frank Morano.

Meanwhile, some Staten Island Republicans continue to back left-wing policies like Universal Daylighting, which would remove nearly 50,000 parking spaces across the borough. And whos the only Staten Island elected official sponsoring that legislation? Frank Morano.

These misguided policies threaten to reshape the character of our neighborhoods. Combined with the sweeping City of Yes agenda, Staten Islands unique identity is being chipped away  policy by policy.

If the GOP truly wants to represent this borough, it needs to stop congratulating itself and start rebuilding. The focus should be on supporting credible candidates, standing united, and addressing real local concerns.

Celebrating underperformance isnt strategy  its denial.

Staten Island has always been proud of its independence, common sense, and community spirit. Its time for the Republican Party here to reflect those same values  not lose sight of them.

(Christopher Campbell is a St. George resident.)
A top MAGA supporter of President Donald Trump thinks that the White House is making a huge mistake in not releasing all the files related to child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

In an exclusive interview with CBS Mornings, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Green (R-Ga.) said, I think its a huge miscalculation, and I truly just stand with the women, and I think they deserve to be the ones that were fighting for.

Greene said she has spoken with many of Epsteins victims, and that Trump has not been accused of any wrongdoing.

I believe the women and the women have said over and over again that Donald Trump did nothing wrong, she said. Even Virginia Giuffre said it under oath and she wrote it in her book. And so if we listen to the women, they say Donald Trump has done nothing wrong.

Giuffre, who was trafficked by Epstein when she was a teenager, died by suicide in April. She never accused Trump of any wrongdoing.

The GOP-led House Oversight and Reform Committee this week released more than 20,000 pages of records it received from Epsteins estate, including documents that make reference to Trump, who ran in the same social circles with Epstein from the 1980s to the 2000s.

Greene said the records make for a very interesting view into a world that most of us have never seen.

She said, Its kind of like a web of global affairs, business connections, very high and powerful people, foreign leaders. And its just an interesting world. And even the [intelligence] community.

Trump has slammed what he calls a Dem-led Epstein hoax.

Some Weak Republicans have fallen into their clutches because they are soft and foolish, he wrote on Truth Social on Friday. Epstein was a Democrat, and he is the Democrats problem, not the Republicans problem! Ask Bill Clinton, Reid Hoffman, and Larry Sommers about Epstein, they know all about him, dont waste your time with Trump. I have a Country to run!
President Donald Trump is taking major flak from his MAGA supporters for what is being seeing as two major betrayals to the movement.

MSNBC reported that MAGA is in an uproar over what is seen as a softening of Trumps staunch anti-immigration stance.

Trump enflamed supporters during an interview with Fox News Laura Ingraham in which he defended the H-1B visa program.

The visa program allows employers to sponsor foreign-born workers for some high-skilled jobs.

MAGA sees the endorsement of the visas as a slap in the face to American-born workers.

If you want to raise wages for American workers, you cant flood the country with tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands of foreign workers, Ingraham said, referring to H-1B visa holders.

I agree, but you also have to bring this talent, Trump responded.

We have plenty of talented people, Ingraham retorted.

No, you dont, the president replied.

MAGA types were swift to condemn Trump after the encounter.

H-1Bs should be banned, podcaster Benny Johnson said. There should be no H-1Bs in America.

This program is a scam, said MAGA architect Steve Bannon. Total scam. Its got to be gotten rid of.

The Daily Wires Matt Walsh said: Id like to see the program abolished entirely.

Meanwhile, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a staunch MAGA supporter of Trumps, told NBC News that she thinks the president has strayed from his America First doctrine by focusing too much on foreign affairs.

No one cares about the foreign countries. No one cares about the never-ending amount of foreign leaders coming to the White House every single week, Greene said.

She said, We didnt elect the president to go out there and travel the world and end the foreign wars, Greene said. We elected the president to stop sending tax dollars and weapons for the foreign wars  to completely not engage anymore. Watching the foreign leaders come to the White House through a revolving door is not helping Americans.

She added that Trumps focus on foreign policy, is doing nothing to solve the problems that are really plaguing vulnerable segments of our population, especially young people.

Trump said that his job as president requires a wider lens and engagement with the entire world.
Forecasters are calling for windy weather on Thanksgiving 2025. Will it be too much for the balloons in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade? Here, the Charlie Brown balloon is flying on Central Park West at the 86th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. (Rossella DeBerti/Getty Images)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Those looking to enjoy the wonder of the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade may want to prepare for some wind and maybe even some rain, as an early forecast indicates this holiday may not feature the most idyllic weather.

Paul Pastelok, lead U.S. long-range forecaster for AccuWeather, told the Advance/SILive.com that the week of Thanksgiving is shaping up to be a wet one.

According to Pastelok, the weekend ahead of the holiday will likely feature a rainy system off the New England Coast. As of Friday afternoon, he expects rain during that Sunday night into Monday morning.

We found that a lot more people now are taking the whole week off of Thanksgiving, Patselok explained. Theyre starting their travels off at the beginning of the week rather than waiting till Wednesday. So, you know, the beginning of the week starts with a storm exiting the Northeast/New England, so there may be some delays in the morning on Monday, whether its low-deck clouds or some rain, so just some minor delays because of that system  maybe even some wind.

Following that initial system, Pastelok foresees the potential for up to two additional storms during Thanksgiving week. However, he did note that there could be some days between systems where it is rather quiet.

Pastelok also expects temperatures to warm up a little bit during the course of that week. Temperatures are expected to be slightly above normal in New York City. The Southeast may experience record warmth during that time, which could find itself heading northward.

I do think there will be a system right before Thanksgiving or on Thanksgiving that could bring some showers, maybe a little wind, which can be an issue with the Macys (Thanksgiving) Day Parade, he said. And then, another system over the weekend.

In terms of snow, Pastelok believes any such precipitation will be north and west of the city, as there will not be enough cold air in place for most of the week to create that issue in the five boroughs.
Capital Gain

Rich lister property developers, the Gazal familys Gazcorp, has added a touch of Los Angeles Rodeo Drive to Sydneys west with the opening of the $100 million second stage of the Sydney Outlet Village.

The former Fashion Spree outlet in Warwick Farm now boasts 5000 square metres of luxury brands trading in an alfresco mall setting with open-air seating, built with sustainable materials.

Outlet malls are the new black for the retail sector as consumers focus on spending less. Shoppers demand for premium brands on a beer budget means Sydney Outlet Village has snared multiple well-known brands including Oroton, expanding the centres size from a 130 sq m store to 205 sq m.
New York has hot dog stands, Ho Chi Minh has banh mi, and Delhi has samosas. But it was the Mexican street food classic, the taco, that Lawrence Diaz had to bring to Sydney.

Its my favourite food. Its something I enjoy as much as a fine dining restaurant for a fraction of the price, says Diaz, owner of Papis Birria Tacos food truck in Haberfield. We have people returning four or five times a week  thats what makes me realise people are appreciating it. Its affordable.

Lawrence Diaz in front of his first food truck shop in Haberfield. Now, he has opened a restaurant selling the same food in Darlinghurst. Credit: Steven Siewert

Next to a petrol station, diners sit on plastic chairs beside foldable tables and chomp down on birria tacos  cheesy tacos full of shredded meat, dunked in a smoky and spicy broth  while looking out onto Parramatta Road.

Diazs food truck is one of 1988 across Sydney.
Rainy weather returned to south-east Queensland for a second day on Saturday, with parts of the region hit again by large hail and flash flooding after storms passed through on Friday night.

There was flash flooding in Boonah in Queenslands Scenic Rim, while hail up to seven centimetres was reported near Goondiwindi earlier on Saturday afternoon.

Friday evenings storms dumped almost 22 millimetres on the city in two hours, leaving thousands of properties without power. After Saturdays storms, more than 4000 homes were still without power as of 8.30pm.

In the Lockyer Valley, 61 millimetres of rain was recorded at Mount Berryman before 3:45pm, 55 millimetres at Mulgowie just before 3:50pm and 52 millimetres at Rockside just before 3:45pm.
New York City was once the epitome of aspiration, a global symbol of possibility and prosperity. If you can make it there, Liza Minnelli sang in 1977, you can make it anywhere. Last week the voters of NYC delivered their verdict: you cant make it there. Possibly not anywhere. Its no longer up to you, New York, New York.

Kathy Lette declared the election of Mamdani an inoculation against pessimism. Credit: AP

The election of a 34-year-old democratic socialist as mayor of New York has been called many things. People-powered. A youth quake. A triumph of luxury beliefs. And the revolt of the credentialled precariat. Australias unofficial ambassador to royals and rockers, Kathy Lette, declared this election an inoculation against pessimism  and antidote to the right-wing rhetoric of Trump & selfish co.

In Australia, it could be called something else: familiar. Weve already had two rounds of this revolution  the first in 2022 and the second in 2025.

The US voters who elected Mamdani have a lot in common with the Australians who gave their votes, hopefully or strategically, to the teal-branded voices of franchise. In both cases, post-election analyses reveal that the largest bloc of voters electing these political disruptors were university-educated, middle- to upper-income renters.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size I remember my father leaving. He walked purposefully, hurriedly through the house. He was carrying bags. My mother was crying, and he walked down the side of the house and away. I remember it being a shock. Other than that, I cant remember what I felt. But after it happened, I didnt tell anyone. I didnt tell my friends, not even my best friend, not for a year, and even then, he found out some other way. He was furious with me. But I was deeply ashamed and could not have imagined telling anyone. Why? Part of this was the time. Divorce was not so common  or, rather, it did not feel like it was. There was still a furtiveness about it. But alongside this sense of shame, which I am sure many children felt, lay a feeling I have already mentioned, of not belonging. It was not that I had an unhappy time at school; I had good friends, I did well, I would even say that I was happy. But I was there on a scholarship, and I was always aware that the boys around me came from richer families. They had large, beautiful houses, they took holidays to the same spots on the coast, ate at famous restaurants. I observed, with greedy fascination, their attitudes to money. I remember one boy being careful with what he spent at recess, even though he lived in a fancy house  and I remember thinking, ah, this isnt something rich people do because theyre rich. This is why theyre rich  they manage money differently. Labors desire for long-term government is the major lesson drawn from the painful Rudd-Gillard years. Credit: Nathan Perri This isnt true, of course. Rich people are as varied in their habits with money as anyone else; the idea they are cleverly frugal is self-serving mythology that feeds the idea that they deserve what they have. But while I know this, there is another part of me that still believes that old tale, just as there is a part of me who is still that boy who does not have as much money as those around him. But because I went to that school, I have never felt entirely out of place with the rich. Instead, I can mix with them; I can mimic their manners, more or less, behave in the right ways. But the most interesting (and perhaps damning) thing is that I am proud of this. I am proud of my ability to pass. Why? Writing this now helps me make sense of my coming to work for the Labor Party. This desire to pass, as it turns out, has long been a part of Labor culture  and of labour parties around the world. The UKs Labour Party first held government in 1924. Political historian Malcolm Petrie, reviewing books dealing with that first effort, writes: Labour entered office determined to disprove accusations of extremism and to show that it was a respectable party.

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This was, in part, writes Petrie, about rejecting the accusation, voiced most bluntly by Winston Churchill in 1920 when he was still a Liberal, that Labour wasnt fit to govern. This explains the composition of the cabinet, and Labour ministers willingness to appear in court dress, despite the unease this provoked on the political left. It is also the reason some of the partys most prominent policies were discarded as soon as it became clear that Labour could form a government. This was not only about electoral success. Its members went further, even dressing the part of more respectable MPs. There is something psychological and emotional going on here: a deep-seated concern about inferiority, coupled with a defensive determination to prove doubters wrong. Forty years ago, then-NSW premier Neville Wran pointed to a strange contradiction. The ALP, he wrote, is one of the oldest political parties in the world; it has governed often, including in crisis, and has many achievements. Yet  and this is the great paradox  this tremendous Australian institution...is still deemed in certain circles ... to be on trial, as it were, as to its loyalty. There can be no complete explanation of the destruction of the Whitlam government in 1975 without reference to this enduring paradox and its powerful effect on Australian political life for at least 65 years. Labor suffers from a strong sense that it must prove its legitimacy. The downfall of Gough Whitlam plays into that. Wrans point comes down to a question of legitimacy: that in some way Labor, whenever it governs, is perceived by many as an interloper. If that sounds like ancient history, consider the more recent experience of the Rudd-Gillard government. Both prime ministers were subjected to campaigns of extreme aggression. Rudd was attacked by business over his mining tax, in the most savage display of corporate ferocity in decades. During Gillards time in power, the Murdoch papers, which had seemed already to have reached a frenzy, became still more extreme, abetted by misogynistic attacks and an emboldened business lobby. Gillards minority government was routinely described as illegitimate. When Albanese, who was a senior minister and then deputy prime minister in those governments, talks about wanting Labor to be the natural party of government, this is the history he is pushing back against. More than that, it is the constant sense that Labor is somehow inadequate. It is, perhaps, not just a perception but a feeling he is trying to expunge.

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This may be why defeat stings Labor so badly. It is not only failure, which is demoralising enough; not only the lost chance to do more of what the party thinks is good, to stop its opponents from doing what it thinks is bad. When the Liberals lose, they know in their bones they will be back: that is their destiny. When MPs from a Labor government lose, rejected by the people, it is as though they have been told, again, that they are not up to the job, that they dont belong, that they have failed in their attempt to pass as people who know how to govern. Once upon a time, this was a matter of class. It has been many years since Labor ranks were dominated by the working classes  but then, feelings have little to do with logic. This might help explain one of the remarkable features of the modern Labor Party: how quickly and brutally it disposes of its heroes. After Gough Whitlams fall, political journalist Paul Kelly has written, the party devoted itself to two tasks: avoiding Whitlams economic failure and matching the ruthlessness of Malcolm Fraser. After Paul Keating went, Don Watson wrote, the party ran up a new flag and will sail anywhere including the doldrums or over the horizon and out of sight to steer clear of the recent past. The new imperative is  do nothing that might remind the people of Keating. More recently, Labor has done everything it can to make sure voters know this new era is nothing like the Rudd-Gillard era. I understand that sense of shame; of being part of what was perceived by many, in its immediate aftermath, as a failure. I spent years attacking myself for the mistakes I had made as a Labor staffer, the things I had and had not done. So I well understand why, given the chance to redo history, to take another path, Labor wants to try it. In fact, the best way to understand the approach of the Albanese government may be as a reaction to the Rudd-Gillard experience. The gradualism comes from the desire for long-term government; and the desire for long-term government is the major lesson drawn from the Rudd-Gillard years. If you dont have a long-term government, the argument runs, you cannot guarantee policies will stick. In 2023, Albanese told party members, We know what we have begun can be undone unless we are there to protect it. The argument makes intuitive sense. But does it hold up? There are two objections. The first is that this idea of embedding policy depends on passing legislation and letting it become part of the landscape. But this would seem to depend on passing it early, and we are now almost four years into the life of this government.

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The other objection is stronger still. Which policies of the Rudd-Gillard years, exactly, were lost, outside of the carbon price? In fact, much of the Albanese governments time has been spent doing further work on the policies of Rudd and Gillard: the NDIS, the NBN, the Gonski education reforms. Julia Gillards NDIS remains although her government was short-lived. Credit: Jason South The fact this government is in substantive respects a continuation of that one suggests that you can deliver a significant number of enduring policies in a short time, as long as theyre good policies. Medicare is given as the major parable for the importance of long-term government. Medicare was introduced by Whitlam (as Medibank), effectively torn down by Fraser, then revived by Bob Hawke, returned from the Whitlam years. Again, we come to the conclusion: the ideas matter at least as much, if not more. But ideas can get you into trouble. And trouble is the very last thing this government wants. It is not unreasonable to have lived through the Rudd-Gillard years and drawn the conclusion that to change the balance of power in society you must proceed slowly, carefully, cleverly. But it is hard not to wonder, sometimes, if this government has learnt the lesson a little too well. To wonder whether  because the lesson comes with helpings of shame and sadness the MPs who lived through that time, who dominate the cabinet, go too far out of their way to avoid the slightest hint of anything that might remind them of those years. When we say this government does not like conflict, this mostly means it does not want conflict with those who have assets. The most scarring of Labors battles in that era  apart from the internal ones  were with business. So it would make sense if you discovered, in the Albanese governments aversion to conflict, a pattern of avoiding fights with business in particular. Which you do. Not, it should be said, in every case. Labor held its ground against the powerful Pharmacy Guild. Earlier this year, in one of his strongest statements of belief, Albanese made it clear he would not back down on industrial relations. And yet the pattern is still striking. There are the concessions given by the government in its dealings with banks, supermarkets, gas and gaming companies. The habit is most jarring on climate policy. We export a staggering amount of fossil fuels; we are in the top five largest exporters in the world. This Labor government continues to subsidise the companies involved, giving away billions of dollars. In September, it gave approval to Woodsides extension of the North West Shelf gas project until 2070  45 years from now. You could expand this line of inquiry further, to policies that dont affect large businesses.

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In its first term, the government announced a new tax regime for those with large superannuation balances. The Senate wouldnt pass it, so the government took it to the election. After the election, Labor had the numbers to pass its laws  but after pushback, most particularly from The Australian Financial Review and The Australian, it changed its policy in a substantial retreat. Again and again, it is those with assets who are protected. When we say this government does not like conflict, this mostly means it does not want conflict with those who have assets. One of Labors most bruising battles was against the mining industry, such as this 2010 protest. Credit: AGE Labors task, historically, has been to change things on behalf of those who desperately need them to change. Albaneses most common description of his governments focus  holding nobody back and leaving nobody behind  is clearly Labor in its sentiments. And yet, interestingly, we find the rhetoric is about what we must not allow to happen. There is, as so often with this government, a reluctance to state clearly, in sharp and positive language, what it wants to achieve. Loading This may be because the phrase itself holds a contradiction at its heart. Every time an aspirational policy is supported with taxpayer money  tax breaks for home ownership or investment properties, the tax deductibility of private school donations, public funding for private schools, tax breaks for the superannuation of the rich  those dollars cannot go elsewhere. The genuinely poor must continue living in poverty. Public school students must wait a decade for decent funding. Houses remain unaffordable to those without rich parents. Not holding anyone back and not leaving anyone behind are worthy sentiments. But leaving society largely as it is means the second of those sentiments is treated as less important than the first. This is an edited extract of Sean Kellys Quarterly Essay, The Good Fight: What does Labor stand for? published Monday November 17
Police are hunting for seven more protesters who allegedly threw rocks and glass bottles at officers during a violent rally in Melbourne last month, bringing the total number of suspects to 15.

Two police officers were hospitalised after suffering injuries during clashes between anti-immigration protesters and counter-protesters at opposing rallies on October 19. Some officers were allegedly struck so hard by rocks and glass bottles that their protective shields cracked.

Police accused the counter-protesters of fuelling the violence, which the group disputed.

On Saturday morning, police appealed for public assistance in identifying seven more protesters accused of assaulting police. Police had already released images on Thursday of eight protesters they allege intentionally brought ballast rocks  used on large-scale civil engineering projects and not found in the city  to hurl at police during the protest.
I think it is a watershed moment for Australia. Of course, it builds on what Keating and Suharto did, he said of the deal, which would force Indonesia to inform Australia if, for example, Russia wanted to develop a base in West Papua. Weve built that relationship. Ive visited Indonesia four times now. It was the first country I visited after the election and the first bilateral meeting I had in 2022. I had a strong relationship with [former] president [Joko] Widodo and a strong relationship with President Prabowo. Albanese and his Vanuatu counterpart Jotham Napat during his visit in September. Credit: Michael Read There are three parts to it: essentially committing both countries to consult on a regular basis on matters of security, to undertake mutually beneficial security activities, such as exchange of personnel, looking at joint exercises. And, if either or both of our nations security is threatened, to consult and consider what measures might be taken ... to deal with any common threat. A critique of the government since its thumping election win is that it has lacked ambition to put forward a bolder agenda to address economic and social problems. The government rejects the criticism and says it has been delivering its promises. But it has had a number of wins on the foreign policy front, including a smooth White House visit and signing the Pukpuk Treaty with Papua New Guinea.

Loading The treaty with Indonesia does not amount to a formal defence alliance, making it weaker than the Pukpuk agreement but still significant because Indonesia is staunchly non-aligned and does not have an agreement like the Australian one with another country. Lowy Institute program director Sam Roggeveen, who has expressed doubts about the US alliance, said he was surprised that Australia could convince Indonesia to sign the deal at the same time as powering ahead with the AUKUS submarine program. Australias procurement of nuclear submarines sparked concern in Jakarta because it ties Australia closer to the US. Roggeveen also noted the significance of Albanese stating that he was following in the footsteps of Keating. He pointed out that Keating had cast the 1995 agreement with Indonesia as one that was as symbolically significant  though not practically so  as the US alliance in terms of how Australia relates to the two nations. But what is unresolved in my mind is the basic question of the future of the US alliance and the future of American power in Asia, he said. There is at the heart of Australias foreign policy an almost reversion to the idea of the late 1990s that Australia doesnt have to choose between China and the US.

Asked repeatedly by this masthead about his view on the likelihood of conflict with China over Taiwan, Albanese reiterated Australias support for the status quo and sticking to the doctrine of strategic ambiguity. The prime minister said it was unwise to speculate about conflict and said he was focusing on the upsides of the relationship with Australias biggest trading partner. What I do is talk about the positive of what we want to see happen, rather than speculate, Albanese said. And what I think is that we want the status quo to be maintained. We support the status quo when it comes to Taiwan, and we continue to urge for a maintenance of that and no unilateral decisions. The prime minister declined to weigh in on Trumps most direct recent comments on China and Taiwan, made in the cabinet room sitting alongside Albanese last month. Trump, when asked about a possible invasion, said, China doesnt want to do that.

Gatra Priyandita, a senior analyst at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, said Australia and Indonesia shared growing unease about the militarisation of the South China Sea and US global leadership, but cautioned against thinking Prabowo would upend Indonesias non-aligned tradition. Within this balancing act, the Australia-Indonesia relationship occupies a special niche: among all of Jakartas security partnerships, it remains among the most comprehensive, institutionalised and resilient, he wrote. For Australia, Indonesias strategic weight in the region is indispensable. A stable and confident Indonesia contributes directly to Australias own security and to regional equilibrium. For Indonesia, closer ties with Australia bring access to training and strategic dialogue that can enhance its defence modernisation agenda. Albanese slammed the record of the Abbott, Turnbull and Morrison governments and claimed they hurt Australias foreign relations, a view that would be challenged by his opponents who set up the AUKUS agreement underpinning Australias security strategy. We inherited the broken relationships with the Pacific, with many of the ASEAN countries, no engagement at all, not even a phone call between any minister in the Morrison government and ministers with our major trading partner in China. Bad relations with France and some of our European partners, the prime minister said.
This is the little-known reality of some of Melbournes high-rise public housing estates. Few people know that 30 per cent of the 44 towers slated for demolition  13 of them across 12 suburbs  are dedicated to older tenants only.

On any given day, something is happening in this room for residents: a hot lunch, a singing group, bingo or mahjong games, or a late-afternoon film or TV screening (the residents are currently bingeing on historical-drama The Chosen).

We feel here [almost like] family ... theres a sense of support, she says. Sometimes we say shes my sister ... because we feel worried about each other.

Collazos built this community. When the nearby community centre was demolished and the sewing group displaced, she applied for a grant, bought overlockers and sewing machines, and restarted the group inside the tower.

Amparo Collazos cutting fabric during the weekly sewing class she set up. Its one of the many activities available to the towers elderly residents that provides them with a sense of community. Credit: Chris Hopkins

Its Thursday morning; the room smells of espresso and doughnuts, filled with gentle chatter between tenants and neighbours visiting to make clothes.

The sewing machines in the community room at the North Melbourne public housing tower on Melrose Street whir to life. Resident Amparo Collazos, a 78-year-old former public health worker originally from Colombia, is teaching her neighbour, retired architect Janis, how to make himself a strapping waistcoat.

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I can think of a few neighbours that will be pushing up daisies quite soon after this because its going to be too much for them.

A lot of people are going to be quite bereft, says St Kilda tower resident Royal Abbott, 73.

Now, these residents and their advocates fear the state governments demolition plan for every public high-rise across Melbourne will not just displace thousands of the citys most vulnerable elderly people, but also lose this proven support system with no clear answers on what, if anything, will replace it.

Many more elderly residents live invisibly  scattered throughout the 31 general-needs, family towers or in other low-rise, 55-plus units across Melbourne, often without access to the tailored support the OPHRP provides.

They are part of the decades-old, state-funded Older Persons High Rise Program (OPHRP), designed as a gold standard model of care to help vulnerable older Victorians age in place.

On the other side of the city, Hank Ferguson, 60, found sanctuary in 2022 in a Northcote tower for older persons. It was his escape from homelessness after a breakup that left him shouldering a $250-a-week rent alone in an atrocious private rental.

A housing worker at Port Phillip Council quickly helped him secure a one-bedroom flat at 150 Inkerman Street in St Kilda. He was safe, secure  a guaranteed lifetime rental with a rent (at the time) of less than $100 a week

Abbott describes getting his flat in 2016 as like winning the lottery. At 64, his life was spiralling. He had been made redundant, lost his rental, and was living in a friends bungalow. Then, his 32-year-old son, Max, died of a heroin overdose.

For many residents of these towers, a unit was a lifeline.

So far, the only traditional public housing confirmed to be rebuilt is a pair of red-brick towers in Carlton , for which the federal government has committed separate funding.

The sweeping plan involves progressively moving 10,000 residents, razing all 44 towers, and leasing the public land to private consortia for 40 years. The sites will be rebuilt with a mix of private rentals and community housing  properties owned and managed by not-for-profit organisations rather than the state.

Ferguson and Abbott were among dozens of older residents to make submissions to a parliamentary inquiry into the redevelopment plan earlier this year. A non-government-controlled upper house committee has been tasked with teasing apart the rationale for the controversial demolition plan, announced by former Premier Daniel Andrews in his final days in office .

He rejoiced over the thought that he may never have to move again. The insecurity of rentals is terrible, he says.

I was like, Wow, the windows arent rotting! It hasnt got black mould!, the community radio broadcaster says. Like most of the towers, his flat has concrete walls. He plays his accordion late without disturbing neighbours.

He was surprised and appreciative of the quality unit offered by Darebin Council.

In the two years since the plan was announced, there has not been one mention of the older persons towers by ministers or Homes Victoria. Asked by The Age this week, the state government gave no official indication it would keep the program.

The inquiry heard that tenants of the older persons towers are most at risk, in what is generally considered a vulnerable cohort already in public housing.

The fears from residents and advocates about the plan are multifold: less secure tenure in community housing, increased utility costs, loss of dedicated aged care support, and most crucially, the enormous stress of upheaval and severing of connection from friends, medical facilities and routines in late life.

Shadow Housing Minister Richard Riordan, who has called the redevelopment program a very expensive, slow and dubious plan, said the Coalition would seek to renovate, refurbish and repair the current housing stock  subject to having access to verifiable condition reports.

A debate has raged for two years about whether it would be cheaper and less disruptive to build on the vacant land on the estates and refurbish the existing towers . The government continues to refuse to release its cost-benefit analysis, but is adamant that the towers arent worth salvaging and emptying the estates, razing them, and rebuilding with the private sector is the best path forward.

Fiona York, from the Housing for the Aged Action Group, told the inquiry that many older tenants have no family support or assets. She fears many will not survive the move.

Its just unsafe policy to be talking to people about ... moving them out of their homes when theyre in their 80s and 90s, and theyve lived there for 20, 30, 40 years, York said.

Hank Ferguson rides the lift at Holmes Court in Northcote. Credit: Chris Hopkins

One of the oldest tenants in the program is 91-year-old Me Hui Gong, who has lived in her North Melbourne flat for 20 years. She retired in China and came to Australia to be with her daughter and help care for her grandchildren. At first, she lived with her daughter, but later moved into this building.

Her one-bedroom flat  which, like most in the older persons towers, is a renovated bedsit where two flats became one  is the home she recovered in after refusing end-of-life care. Last year, she was diagnosed with cancer, and doctors at the Royal Melbourne Hospital told her she was too old for surgery.

Gong insisted that she must have the surgery, her Mandarin translator says. She survived it, but a severe allergic reaction to medication led to liver and kidney damage, and she was sent to the ICU.

She again refused to give up, asking her daughter to take her home. In her flat, unable to even open her eyes, she was determined to live until 100 years old and had her daughter play Chinese dance music to keep her dancing... in her mind.

91-year-old Me Hui Gong, dances in her living room in her public housing unit, North Melbourne. Credit: Chris Hopkins

A year later, she does two to three hours of exercise every day, including catwalks in the hallway of 159 Melrose Street.

This recovery, she says, was only possible because the older persons program provides a unique, wrap-around support system.

The buildings are staffed by on-site workers from social service providers, such as the Salvation Army and Better Health Network.

The support is very valuable, Gongs translator says. They can ask the staff member to translate some letters, help with form filling and booking for GP appointments.

Crucially, the towers are intended for elderly residents only.

Its much safer, says Gong. She said she was very concerned about moving into a general-needs building, worrying that teenagers... may bully the residents walking with a walking aid or trolley.

Me Hui Gong recovered in her flat after she had surgery. Credit: Photograph by Chris Hopkins

Becoming toxic

Those fears are already a reality for Bill McKenzie, a 17-year tenant of the Albert Park tower. He says it feels like life at his beachfront tower is going downhill.

McKenzie, 74, describes himself as a burnt-out alcoholic wreck when he moved in during 2007. The tower was a caring, loving environment with full-time caseworkers who helped stabilise his life.

But in recent years, he says the system has been cut to ribbons. Security patrols have been reduced, and security cameras in his building have not worked for 12 months, he says.

A Victorian government spokesperson  responding on behalf of Housing Minister Harriet Shing and Homes Victoria  flatly denied this, stating: We take all resident concerns, incidents and safety matters extremely seriously. There has been no reduction in the level of security at any of the 44 high-rise towers.

At the same time, McKenzie says, Homes Victoria has been placing younger residents with complex drug, alcohol, and mental health issues into the formerly tranquil older persons building.

In January this year, a younger man with severe mental health issues was placed in the building without adequate support, according to McKenzie.

74 year-old Bill McKenzie watches for birds on Albert Park beach from the living room of his home in the public housing towers at 150 Victoria Avenue, Albert Park. Credit: Chris Hopkins

At the start, that person was more of a danger to himself, McKenzie explains. But recently, the resident tore a pipe off a bathroom fitting and chased someone down the street, threatening to kill them. Police have advised McKenzie and his elderly neighbours to take out intervention orders.

The state government spokesperson did not respond to questions about the case, nor the broken security cameras.

Former Port Phillip social worker Kate Incerti confirmed to the inquiry that funding for the older persons program had been reduced just when support was most needed.

Its becoming toxic, McKenzie says. Its almost like ... they decided to drive everybody out.

The beach views from the public housing towers at 150 Victoria Avenue, Albert Park. Credit: Chris Hopkins

The plan rolls on

While older residents wait, the wider demolition moves ahead. Two red-brick towers in Carlton are draped in black sheeting as cranes begin the brick-by-brick dismantling. Residents have begun being moved out of towers in Richmond and South Yarra.

Two towers in Flemington and one in North Melbourne (the next three towers to come down) are almost empty, with pressure ramping up on the handful of residents yet to accept a relocation offer. Final eviction notices are looming for the handful of holdout residents at 12 Holland Court in Flemington, specifically.

Those hold-out residents are pinning their hopes on a soon-to-be handed down judgment from the Court of Appeal, which will determine the fate of a long-running class action that argued the demolition decision was unlawful and breached human rights. The original class action was dismissed for the second time by the Supreme Court in April.

Down at the Flemington estate, a five-day-a-week picket line protest has formed to disrupt early works. It was here that Hank Ferguson was arrested in August after locking his foot to a drilling rig for four hours.

Hank Ferguson being arrested on August 4 after locking his foot to a drilling rig at the Flemington estate for four hours.

He believes that as a beneficiary of these towerswhich were born from the slum clearance projects he is morally bound to protect what they stand for.

If it wasnt for this kind of resistance, this building would not exist, he says, referencing the anti-eviction struggles of the Great Depression.

The state government recently released tenders for the 30-year project, and planning is beginning for the third batch of towers, including Dorcas Street in South Melbourne. It is unclear when the older persons towers will be redeveloped. When asked by The Age, the government gave no timeline for the buildings.

Protest action at one of the first towers to be demolished, at 12 Holland Court on the Flemington estate, on October 31.

Social housing residents deserve homes that they can be proud to call their own - homes that are modern, accessible, energy-efficient and well-connected to schools, healthcare and public transport, the spokesperson said.

The towers redevelopment will triple housing capacity across the sites, and the rights and rent settings of all relocating residents will remain the same - they will also have the right to return based on their ongoing eligibility and needs.

Asked if the Coalition would retain the program, Riordan said, credible and well-resourced ageing in place policies are better for residents and in the long run save government money.

Greens housing spokesperson Gabrielle de Vietri says the government has no respect for this cohorts vulnerability.

Older people deserve peace and stability in their home, but Labor is uprooting them, de Vietri says. Labor doesnt care about the harm they are causing ... Theyre more concerned about cash for their property developer mates.

For the thousands of elderly residents in the 13 towers, political fights over the rationale of the program are secondary to a terrifying reality.

Bill McKenzie says several residents have told him they would possibly do themselves in rather than move.

Theyve come here from hard times ... and thats being taken away, he says. And then you get the memories coming back to you ... the demons coming back to haunt you.

If you or anyone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 131 114 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.

Reach Rachael Dexter securely via ProtonMail (end-to-end encrypted) at rachaeldexter@protonmail.com or message her on Signal at rachaeldexter.58.

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Police Association of Victoria secretary Wayne Gatt doesnt believe the watered-down announcement will help officers. Imagine going up to 100 people wearing black balaclavas and asking them one by one whether they have a lawful excuse for wearing them, he said this week. Police are searching for 15 protesters they allege hurled rocks, bottles and rotten fruit at officers last month. Many of their faces were obscured with masks. People who wear masks do so to disguise their appearance so that they are not identified when they are committing criminal acts, Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush said on Saturday.

Opposition Leader Brad Battin, a former police officer, maintains they need to be banned entirely. You cant wait until the rocks are thrown and then ask them to take their masks off. The governments announcement on Tuesday, walking back what was promised almost a year ago following the firebombing of the Adass Israel Synagogue, disappointed Jewish community groups. Zionist Federation of Australia president Jeremy Leibler, who sits on the governments anti-hate taskforce, cant see it being effective. Allan insisted it would give officers an extra tool to unmask violent or hateful protesters, including neo-Nazis, who conceal their identity to evade police. But Zable, who is Jewish, isnt hiding his identity. For him, Greedozer is both performance art and a political statement. Its consciousness raising.

He dreamt up the costume in 1980 while protesting against sand mining at Middle Head on the NSW north coast. Feeling the destruction around me  I got this idea in my head. He thought: I should get that image out. Zable tweaks the costume here and there to suit each action he attends  which is a lot. Greedozer joined the 1980s protests against the construction of the Franklin Dam in Tasmania, Palm Sunday rally for nuclear-disarmament, Occupy Wall Street in New York, Lock the Gate actions against fracking when he lived on the NSW north coast, and pro-Palestinian demonstrations. Greedozer might have a radioactive sign for one protest, and a picture of the earth for another. A petrol bowser or dollar signs.

Zable is sometimes directed to remove his headgear, which he says he complies with when given the chance. If police approach, hell voluntarily show his face first or try to negotiate with officers. People want to photograph this. I mean, its a statement, Zable told The Age this week. I want to do my job as a communicator in this performance. Loading The 80-year-old accepts some people come to protests for a fight. He believes police have a role to play to de-escalate through one-on-one interactions with protesters, rather than blanket militarised responses that increase tensions for everyone. Police this week, seeking to identify the counter-protesters who allegedly threw rocks on October 19, released drone footage of what appeared to show a planned attack on officers. Police said the activists had brought ballast rocks from outside the CBD to use as projectiles.

Loading Two officers were taken to hospital during that October clash between anti-immigration and left-wing counter-protesters. Police accused the counter-protesters of fuelling the violence. The governments protest bill will also ban the public display of terrorist symbols. Penalties for assault at religious assemblies will be increased, and a new offence for intimidating, harassing or obstructing worshippers will be created. But a full ban on protests at places of worship will not proceed.

The government is also pressing ahead with a prohibition on attachment devices  such as glue and chains  that endanger the public or first responders. Rob Beamish from climate activist group Rouser protested the crackdown outside parliament on Wednesday in a mask made of bicycle locks and padlocks and a blue costume made from rope to make the point. Rob Beamish from climate activist group Rouser protested the crackdown outside parliament on Wednesday in a costume made from attachment devices. Credit: Chris Hopkins Womens liberation activist Zelda DAprano is immortalised in bronze  holding chains  outside the Trades Hall in Carlton, having attached herself to a government building in 1969 to protest for equal pay. Human Rights Law Centre legal director Sarah Schwartz said the organisation would carefully review the legislation and any amendments. The centre, she said, is ready to challenge laws where they do fall afoul of our constitutional protections and human rights.
Police walk up and down streets, knock on doors and ask for the footage. Sometimes they get lucky. Sometimes no one is home. It is the same method used since civil police forces began, knocking on doors looking for witnesses, in this case electronic ones. David Bartlett, founder and managing director of Safer Places Network. If they find footage it is loaded onto the police system to be viewed by investigators. David Bartlett is a former Victorian detective, who has used technology to expose organised crime gangs and international money-laundering gangs. He is also a Churchill fellow who became an expert at planting secret informers inside international crime cartels that needed money launderers.

The former detective believes he has a better way to capture CCTV evidence at a fraction of the cost. He says in big cities just about every major public crime is captured electronically, which means the crime rate should be going down, not up. He uses the tragic example of the 2012 CCTV footage that captured Jill Meagher in Sydney Road, Brunswick, being stalked by her killer Adrian Ernest Bayley. The Duchess Boutique footage that showed Adrian Bayley walking by. It took 85 hours to find the footage from the Duchess Boutique. We want a system that will take 85 minutes. He says there is an ocean of information out there, but the trouble is police are processing it through a straw.

Bartlett says there are 20 million cameras in Australia, including 8 million residential, 2 million dashcams, 3 million government and 6 million commercial. And that does not include traffic cameras that have the capacity to be 24-hour surveillance posts. More of that later. Bartlett came from a hi-tech background, graduating from Swinburne University with a degree in multimedia (networks and computing). He was settling into a career in the field when an old friend, who had joined the police, came to visit. It stirred childhood memories. When he was four, he was photographed standing proudly in a cut-down police uniform.

As a child I always wanted to be a policeman, David recalls, and in 2005 he joined up. He was a general duties street cop for just a couple of years when astute bosses saw he would be a better asset if they could use his tech skills. Because of his background he was quickly recruited in the covert intelligence area intercepting telephone conversations from organised crime figures for three years. From there he went into counterterrorism, looking at ultra-right extremists and environmentalists with the potential to sabotage logging sites. In 2012, he moved to the Australian Crime Commission with a brief to follow the money. It was a reverse of traditional policing where police target the crime.

Under the stunningly successful Operation Eligo, they targeted people who flew under the radar. We would look at people with undisclosed wealth and work backwards to discover the source. Hand guns and drugs seized in operation Eligo. Credit: Australia Federal Police International syndicates need to move money offshore, and they need corrupt money handlers to do it. In Australia, there are around 6000 non-bank money movers, some honest and some not. Eligo and sister operations identified 555 previously unknown crime figures, and charged 505 of them. It identified and disrupted 91 organised crime groups, seized $86 million, froze assets valued at $646 million, seized $1.8 billion in drugs and confiscated 80 guns.

As a result police found $3.2 million in cash in a bathtub, with another $1 million in the room. In one hotel suite they found $5.5 million carefully stacked in suitcases ready for distribution. Money seized in 2014 after the 12-month covert operation, Eligo, by the Australian Crime Commission. Credit: Australia Federal Police Some syndicates used new technologies such as encrypted mobile devices and the Dark Web. Others used a system known as Halwala, an ancient Asian practice invented in the 8th century  a money swapping process based on trust. A Middle Eastern, Indian or Asian broker connects someone who wants to move money out of Australia with someone who intends to bring cash in. The funds are swapped without being moved, leaving no internet trail from the country of origin. Bartlett recruited a network of informers, money movers who kept paper ledger records of the transactions.

One example involved more than $1 million swapped from India, picked up by a taxi driver in a McDonalds car park and distributed in $80,000 and $100,000 lots to a series of clients. Some syndicates buy dormant bank accounts set up by foreign students while in Australia, that are advertised on the Dark Web. In Bartletts time frontmen were used to launder millions through casinos, some unaware the money was from Australian drug trafficking. CCTV is now part of just about every criminal investigation, but there is no effective method of gathering it. David Bartlett In 2019, he returned to Victoria Police as a civilian expert to manage the IT for the surveillance and technical branch before moving into private enterprise.

But he had unfinished business in policing. CCTV is now part of just about every criminal investigation, but there is no effective method of gathering it. Loading In 2015, schoolgirl Masa Vukotic was stabbed to death in a Doncaster park by Sean Christian Price. Police at the time had no doubt if the murderer was not identified and captured, he would strike again. When footage of a suspect on a Doncaster bus was released a Justice Department caseworker recognised his tattoo.

That footage saved lives. In an equally horrifying murder in 2018, Jaymes Todd followed young comedian Eurydice Dixon from her gig at Melbournes Highlander Bar more than five kilometres to Carltons Princes Park where she was attacked. CCTV footage showed him stalking her from when she left the bar. Jaymes Todd arriving at the Supreme Court for his sentencing in 2019. Credit: Joe Armao Victoria is being battered in a crime storm with a surge of young offenders committing life-altering home invasions.

And while cameras are excellent at capturing evidence they are not deterring the crooks. (A survey of convicted burglars in Britain shows the biggest deterrence is a yappy dog.) What Bartlett wants is a system of collecting recorded vision immediately while not giving police Big Brother powers to peek into everyones backyard. The system is called the Safer Places Network and allows police to electronically request footage rather than knocking on empty doors. Bartlett says home owners, retailers and companies will be asked to opt into a police network. Police can log in and identify every participating camera within 500 metres of a crime scene but cannot access the footage. The camera owners are texted and emailed asking for the vision that can be downloaded into a drop box.

To be clear. They cannot access any vision without the camera owners permission. In extortions and homicides it is literally a matter of life and death, Bartlett says. So far, he has 23,000 cameras registered on the system with several major retailers having already joined. Loading He is offering Victoria Police a free six-month trial and is confident a national rollout could be federally funded.

While Victoria Police is not an official partner, a few dozen individual cops are using the platform to find registered cameras in their area. One project discussed is to link the Melbourne City Councils 220 Safe City cameras monitored around the clock inside a secure room in the Town Hall to police facial recognition systems to alert cops when professional shoplifters or convicted violent offenders enter Melbourne. The investigative power of recorded vision is staggering. The journalism group Bellingcat, using open-source material, was able to prove that a Russian missile carrier was responsible for the 2014 downing of Malaysian flight MH17, killing 298 people. Former chief commissioner Graham Ashton. Credit: Justin McManus Former chief commissioner Graham Ashton, an adviser to the Safer Places Network, says it is a game changer for crime prevention.
It was one of those nights after which we must conduct a headcount of our colleagues at EU Delegation, Katarina Mathernova, the EUs ambassador to Ukraine, posted on Facebook. We are still counting and praying that everyone is alive. Loading EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas told Reuters that the corruption scandal was extremely unfortunate and said that Kyiv should take it very seriously. Ukraines two main anti-corruption agencies, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office, announced the wide-ranging corruption investigation  which could ensnare associates close to Zelensky  during the week. Over the summer, Zelenskys office tried and failed to effectively neuter those watchdogs, triggering mass protests in Ukraine and rare public condemnation from Brussels. He eventually backed down from his efforts to curtail the independence of the agencies.

In the scheme described by investigators this week, perpetrators netted about $US100 million ($153 million) in kickbacks from contracts signed by state nuclear energy company Energoatom. Detectives said some of the contracts were for building structures to protect energy installations as Russian missile strikes have decimated the Ukrainian power grid, leading to electricity outages and cutting off heat as the weather turns cold. Ukrainian Energy Minister Svitlana Grynchuk and Justice Minister German Galushchenko resigned on Wednesday at the presidents request over the scandal. Tymur Mindich, the presidents former business partner  who was implicated as a central figure in the scheme  has fled the country. European leaders are now warning Kyiv to pursue a crackdown and demanding answers, even as they offer reassurances that they will keep supporting Ukraines defence and developing plans to use frozen Russian assets to do so.

The timing of the revelations, however, hardly could be worse as Zelensky appeals to European supporters for fresh funding. New rules allowing young Ukrainian men not yet subject to the military draft to travel outside the country have also led to a torrent of recent arrivals in European nations. Loading Merz said Ukrainians, particularly young men, should serve in their country instead of leaving for Germany. According to Interior Ministry figures, the number of Ukrainian men ages 18 to 22 entering the country rose from 19 per week in mid-August to between 1400 and almost 1800 per week in October. Ukraines promise to curb pervasive corruption is under scrutiny as a condition to secure EU aid and to move forward with its bid to join the bloc.

Since the Trump administration scaled back US support, Zelenskys European partners have become Ukraines chief providers of financial and military aid, and they are brainstorming ways to inject Kyiv with money as it faces a budget crunch. One proposal is to tap the roughly $US200 billion in immobilised Russian sovereign assets, but the effort has faced numerous hurdles. Ukraine has long struggled with a troubling legacy of corruption dating from the Soviet era and the early years following the Soviet Unions collapse. Ukrainian citizens have taken to the streets in outrage, including in the Orange Revolution in 2004-2005 and the 2014 Maidan Revolution, to denounce corrupt officials and demand democratic reforms. Sandbags protecting a control panel at a damaged power plant, following Russias recent missile and drone attacks in an undisclosed location in Ukraine on Thursday. Credit: AP European officials said they had little choice but to continue supporting Ukraine against Russias brutal attacks while simultaneously urging Kyiv to eradicate graft. Asked if the disclosures had shaken EU confidence, Lithuanian Finance Minister Kristupas Vaitiekunas responded in blunt terms: Maybe, but what other options do we have?

Vaitiekunas said Ukraine is fighting for its own freedom and the right to choose the way they live, and so despite the scandal, there are no other options. Loading Since Russia launched its 2022 invasion of its neighbour, the EU and its member states have given more than $US200 billion to Ukraine in financial, humanitarian and military help, including as grants, loans and in-kind support, according to the blocs figures. The EU has previously suspended aid disbursements to Ukraine over stalled reforms, including this summer. Before the latest probe, EU officials pointed to previous corruption concerns and pledged to track all cash disbursements if the bloc gives Ukraine access to the giant stash of Russian money. European officials have focused on the Russian assets as leaders contend with taxpayer fatigue, economic woes, a US pullback and alarm bells about a Ukrainian budget crisis next year.

But the plan, which Moscow strongly denounces, has deadlocked, largely over reservations about the legal, financial and political risk from Belgium, where most of the frozen money is held. EU leaders postponed a decision on accessing the money at least until December, as the European Commission tries to address Belgiums concerns and to develop alternatives to seizing the Russian money. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Thursday that other options include joint borrowing backed by the EU budget or an agreement for nations to raise the necessary capital by themselves. EU diplomats say the commission is floating the idea that member states dig into their pockets as a way of pressing the message that using the immobilised funds is the easiest approach. Its completely fair to discuss all the consequences of doing something, but its important to remember that the consequences of not doing something, of Europe failing Ukraine, will also have an impact, Danish Economy Minister Stephanie Lose told reporters.

We dont grow money on trees, Lose said. Its also a reflection of how difficult it is to find viable options. The embezzlement scandal in Ukraine, however, has provided ammunition to sceptics of European aid for Kyiv, chief among them Hungarys Kremlin-friendly prime minister, Viktor Orban, who has sought to block both EU funding and membership for Ukraine. A wartime mafia network with countless ties to President Zelensky has been exposed, Orban posted on social media. This is the chaos into which the Brusselian elite want to pour European taxpayers money. US critics of financial support for Ukraine also have often cited the issue of corruption. As part of the countrys EU accession bid, Ukrainian authorities should commit to improving how they oversee state-owned enterprises and public procurement, said Mercier, the commissions spokesman for EU enlargement.
Willemstad:--- The Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA) and the CARMABI Foundation brought together scientists, policymakers, and community representatives from across the region on 7 November for the symposium Healthy Waters. Thriving Nature. Vibrant Communities on Curacao. The event focused on improving coastal water quality to protect marine ecosystems and support healthy, resilient communities.

Two milestones celebrated

The symposium marked two important milestones: the launch of DCNAs new Conservation and Restoration of Key Habitats Program, and CARMABIs 70th anniversary. Among the attendees were the Governors of Curacao and St. Maarten, the directors of all six national park organizations in the Dutch Caribbean, policymakers, and scientists from across the region.

Science as the foundation for action

DCNAs director Arno Verhoeven introduced the new Key Habitats Program, explaining how it will strengthen habitat restoration and protection across all six Dutch Caribbean islands. CARMABI director Dr. Manfred van Veghel reflected on seven decades of research that have shaped marine conservation and management in the region. Prof. Dr. Mark Vermeij (CARMABI) highlighted that traditional water quality indicators do not always reflect the true state of coral reefs, but that enough knowledge already exists to guide immediate restoration measures.

International experts Dr. Andreas Haas (NIOZ), Andy Estep (Waitt Institute), and Dr. Jos Hill (The Nature Conservancy) shared insights on microbial dynamics, translating science into effective policy, and the important role of wastewater management. Their shared message: improving water quality is one of the most powerful ways to help both people and nature thrive.

Key outcomes

Through workshops and discussions, participants concluded that declining water quality directly affects reefs, fisheries, tourism and public health. They emphasized the need for regular coastal water monitoring, closer collaboration between science and policy, and improved wastewater treatment as one of the most immediate opportunities for positive impact.

Next steps

The symposium concluded with a shared commitment to continuing regional collaboration. In a follow-up workshop, participants identified eleven practical projects that can be implemented now to deliver measurable improvements in water quality across the Dutch Caribbean. These projects include actions to improve wastewater treatment systems, expand coastal water monitoring, reduce nutrient runoff, strengthen policy frameworks, and engage local communitiesin water conservation. Together, they aim to create tangible benefits for both people and nature in the region.

More information about the presentations and symposium can be found here.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The international postal event hosted in Sint Maarten concluded with great success, earning praise from the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport, and Telecommunication (TEATT), Mrs. Grisha Heyliger-Marten, for its excellent organization, meaningful discussions, and warm Caribbean hospitality.

The Minister of TEATT, who was instrumental in bringing this important event to Sint Maarten, played an active role throughout the conference and its social activities. In her remarks, she emphasized the importance of modernizing and strengthening postal services to support innovation, trade, and connectivity.

Improved postal services are a cornerstone of Sint Maartens digital and economic development strategy. As e-commerce continues to expand globally, reliable, efficient, and technology-driven postal operations are essential for the islands growth and competitiveness.

Over the course of the conference, 50 delegates from across the region discussed strategies to modernize postal operations, enhance logistics and delivery systems, and strengthen regional cooperation. The sessions highlighted the growing role of postal services in enabling e-commerce, financial inclusion, and small business development  areas of increasing importance to Sint Maartens future economy.

Interim Director of the Bureau of Telecommunications and Post (BTP), Mrs. Judianne Labega-Hoeve, commended the collaborative spirit of the participants and expressed pride in Sint Maartens role as host. We are deeply honored by the positive feedback we received from our regional colleagues, said Mrs. Labega-Hoeve. This event reflects the progress weve made in building partnerships and showcases Sint Maartens potential as a hub for innovation and regional dialogue in the postal and telecommunications sectors.

The closing event took place at Emilios, one of Sint Maartens most iconic historical venues. Before the dinner, international delegates visited the viewpoint overlooking the island, where they experienced the natural beauty and hospitality that define Sint Maarten.

Franklin Castro, Secretary General of the Postal Union of the Americas, Spain, and Portugal (UPAEP), was highly impressed by the level of professionalism, engagement, and organizational capability demonstrated by the local hosts. He expressed confidence in Sint Maartens potential to play a leading role in regional postal regulation and pledged support for hosting a major upcoming regulatory postal forum on the island.

The event marked another milestone for Sint Maarten as it continues to position itself as a key player in regional cooperation. With growing opportunities in e-commerce and digital trade, the enhancement of postal services remains a top priority in supporting the islands economic diversification and connectivity goals.

A special note of appreciation was extended to Prime Minister Luc Mercelina and Minister of Finance Marinka Gumbs for their steadfast support and encouragement in making the event a success.
Google announces $40 billion Texas investment to expand AI



Houston, Nov 14 (AFP) Nov 14, 2025



Google announced Friday a major $40 billion investment in Texas through 2027 to build new cloud computing and artificial intelligence infrastructure, marking the latest in a series of massive technology investments in the US state.

The investment will fund new data center campuses in northern Texas, adding to Google's presence in the Lone Star State that spans more than 15 years, the company said.

"Our latest investment in Texas is designed to not only support Texas' workforce and infrastructure, but to ensure the US retains the technical backbone to lead the world in AI," Google said in a blog post.

Google's announcement continues a trend of major technology companies making substantial investments in Texas.

The state's deregulated energy market and access to renewable energy sources have made it particularly attractive for data center development, even as energy demands of these facilities have raised concerns about grid stability, particularly following 2021 winter storms that caused widespread outages.

ChatGPT-maker OpenAI has made one of the most ambitious commitments through its $500 billion "Stargate" project, with its flagship data center campus in Abilene, Texas.

Meta, Facebook's parent company, has invested billions in data centers in Fort Worth, while Tesla relocated its headquarters to Austin in 2021 and built a major manufacturing facility there.

Oracle also moved its headquarters to Austin, and Samsung announced a $17 billion semiconductor plant in Taylor, Texas.

As part of its commitment, Google is establishing a $30 million Energy Impact Fund to aid energy initiatives in Texas -- as communities increasingly worry about the strain data centers put on local power supply.

Google pledged to bring new energy resources onto the grid and pay for costs associated with its operations while supporting community energy efficiency initiatives.

The company said in its latest earnings call that it expects 2025 capital expenditures of $91-$93 billion, reflecting massive investments in data centers and computing power to fulfill its AI ambitions.
Alibaba denies report it helps China's military target US



Beijing, Nov 15 (AFP) Nov 15, 2025



Chinese tech giant Alibaba denies helping Beijing target the United States, telling AFP on Saturday that a recent media report was "completely false".

The Financial Times reported early Saturday that Alibaba "provides tech support for Chinese military 'operations' against (US) targets", according to a White House memo provided to the newspaper.

The memo claimed that Alibaba hands customer data, including "IP addresses, WiFi information and payment records", to Chinese authorities and the People's Liberation Army (PLA), the report said.

The FT said it could not independently verify the claims, noting that the White House believes the actions threaten US security.

An Alibaba Group spokesperson told AFP "the assertions and innuendos in the article are completely false".

The Hangzhou-based firm called the memo a "malicious PR operation (that) clearly came from a rogue voice looking to undermine President Trump's recent trade deal with China".

The dispute highlights persisting suspicions between Beijing and Washington, which are locked in competition for technological superiority.

Since returning to office in January, US President Donald Trump has reignited a fierce trade war with China.

After months of tit-for-tat tariffs, he and counterpart Xi Jinping agreed to a one-year truce late last month.

A spokesman for China's embassy in the United States also denied the reported memo's claims.

"The Chinese government... will never require companies or individuals to collect or provide data located in foreign countries in violation of local laws," said Liu Pengyu in a statement on X.

The report adds to growing concern in Washington about China's potential use of advanced technology to spy.

On Thursday, California-based artificial intelligence firm Anthropic said it had detected and disrupted what it described as the first documented cyber-espionage campaign conducted largely autonomously by AI.

The activities were attributed to a "Chinese state-sponsored group" designated as GTG-1002, Anthropic said.

Asked about the report at a news conference on Friday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said he was "not familiar with the specifics", adding that Beijing had consistently fought hacking activities.

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US and several Arab states urge 'swift adoption' of UN Gaza resolution



United Nations, United States, Nov 14 (AFP) Nov 14, 2025



The United States and several Arab and Muslim-majority nations including Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Turkey called Friday for the UN Security Council to quickly adopt a US resolution endorsing Donald Trump's peace plan for Gaza.

"The United States, Qatar, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Jordan, and Turkiye express our joint support for the Security Council Resolution currently under consideration," the countries said in a joint statement, adding they were seeking the measure's "swift adoption."

Last week the Americans officially launched negotiations within the 15-member Security Council on a text that would follow up on a ceasefire in the two-year war between Israel and Hamas and endorse Trump's plan.

A draft of the resolution seen Thursday by AFP "welcomes the establishment of the Board of Peace," a transitional governing body for Gaza -- that Trump would theoretically chair -- with a mandate running until the end of 2027.

It would authorize member states to form a "temporary International Stabilization Force (ISF)" that would work with Israel and Egypt and newly trained Palestinian police to help secure border areas and demilitarize the Gaza Strip.

Unlike previous drafts, the latest mentions a possible future Palestinian state.

Friday's joint statement comes as Russia circulated a competing draft resolution to Council members that does not authorize the creation of a board of peace or the immediate deployment of an international force in Gaza, according to the text seen Friday by AFP.

The Russian version welcomes "the initiative that led to the ceasefire" but does not name Trump.

It also only calls on the UN secretary-general to submit a report that addresses the possibilities of deploying an international stabilization force in war-ravaged Gaza.

The United States has called the ceasefire "fragile," and warned Friday of the risks of not adopting its draft.

"Any refusal to back this resolution is a vote either for the continued reign of Hamas terrorists or for the return to war with Israel, condemning the region and its people to perpetual conflict," the US ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, wrote in The Washington Post.

"Every departure from this path, be it by those who wish to play political games or to relitigate the past, will come with a real human cost."

While it seemed until now that Council members supported principles of the peace plan, diplomatic sources noted there were questions about the US text, particularly regarding the absence of a monitoring mechanism by the Council, the role of the Palestinian Authority, and details of the ISF's mandate.

The Russian UN mission said in a statement that its alternative proposal differed by recognizing the principle of a "two-State solution for the Israeli-Palestinian settlement."

"Unfortunately, these provisions were not given due regard in the US draft," it said.
Colombia inks $4.3 bn deal to buy Swedish warplanes



Bogota, Nov 15 (AFP) Nov 15, 2025



Colombia has agreed to buy Swedish warplanes in a $4.3 billion deal with Saab, President Gustavo Petro said, as his country is locked in tension with the United States.

The government had said back in April that it would acquire fighter planes from Saab but did not say how many or for how much money.

Petro specified Friday in an event at a military base that Colombia will buy 17 Gripen fighter jets.

Colombia and much of the rest of Latin America are on edge due to a US military campaign targeting alleged drug running boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific.

Petro, Colombia's first leftist president, has traded insults with US counterpart Donald Trump and alleged that the ultimate goal of the US deployment is to seize Venezuela's oil wealth and destabilize Latin America.

Petro said the new planes will be used to dissuade "aggression against Colombia, wherever it may come from."

"In a world that is geopolitically messy," he said, such aggression "can come from anywhere."

Petro is an outspoken critic of Trump, who has called him "an illegal drug leader" because of Colombia's high level of cocaine production.

Trump has also withdrawn US financial aid from Colombia and taken it off its list of countries seen as allies in fighting drug trafficking.

US and French firms had also tried to sell warplanes to Colombia but in the end Bogota went with Saab.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, who is close to Petro, says the US military deployment in the region is aimed at ousting him.

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Four Nigerian security personnel killed in jihadist ambush



Kano, Nigeria, Nov 15 (AFP) Nov 15, 2025



Jihadists aligned with the Islamic State group ambushed Nigerian security forces in northeastern Borno state, killing two soldiers and two anti-jihadist militia members, sources said Saturday.

Fighters from Islamic State-West Africa Province (ISWAP) opened fire Friday with heavy guns on a motorcycle convoy of Nigerian troops, anti-jihadist militia and local hunters on patrol in Damboa district, according to a military source and a security report.

The incident is the latest in dozens of attacks targeting Nigerian security forces by ISWAP, which has recently intensified raids on military bases with rocket-propelled grenades and suicide drones.

"We lost two soldiers and two members of the Civilian CJTF (militia) in the ambush by ISWAP terrorists," a military officer told AFP.

"The terrorists laid ambush on the patrol convoy of motorcycles led by the brigade commander, which resulted in exchange of fire," said the officer, who asked not to be identified because he was not authorised to speak on the incident.

A United Nations situation report shared among aid agencies in the region and seen by AFP confirmed the killing of two soldiers and two anti-jihadist militia members in the ambush, while 17 motorcycles were seized by the jihadists.

According to the report, several soldiers, including the military commander, were missing, but the commander returned to base in the town of Damboa, 90 kilometres (55 miles) from the regional capital, Maiduguri.

The attack underlines the threat ISWAP poses in the region despite being locked in internecine infighting with rival jihadist group Boko Haram for control in areas around Lake Chad.

ISWAP split from Boko Haram in 2016 due to ideological differences and rose to become a dominant group in the region.

The group has been under pressure from Boko Haram, which has pushed it from most of the islands in Lake Chad under its control.

On Sunday, Boko Haram killed around 200 ISWAP fighters in an ambush on the shores of the lake, according to intelligence and anti-jihadist militia sources.

The jihadist violence has killed more than 40,000 people and displaced around two million in the northeast since it erupted in 2019.

The conflict has spilled into neighbouring Niger, Cameroon and Chad, leading the region to launch a military coalition to fight the jihadist groups.
CORRECTED: Pakistan's Asim Munir: top soldier with lifetime immunity



Islamabad, Pakistan, Nov 15 (AFP) Nov 15, 2025



Field Marshal Asim Munir has emerged as Pakistan's most powerful military leader, analysts say, after a constitutional amendment expanded his powers and gave him lifelong rank and immunity.

The amendment enacted Thursday consolidates military power under a new role, chief of defence forces, who commands Pakistan's army, navy and air force.

It also gives Munir lifelong immunity from criminal proceedings, potentially awarding him unchecked powers.

Munir became army chief in November 2022 after serving in senior positions including as quartermaster general and Corps Commander Gujranwala.

He was also head of the Military Intelligence and later of Pakistan's powerful spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence.

In 2019, he was removed as intelligence chief just eight months into his stint, under then-prime minister Imran Khan and for reasons that have never been made public.

Munir's fortunes changed after lawmakers ousted Khan. The ensuing Shehbaz Sharif government gave him charge of the military.

In May this year, following a four-day clash with India, Munir was promoted to field marshal.

"We achieved a historic victory," Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar told parliament this week, saying "everyone appreciated General Asim Munir" for it.

"India challenged our territorial sovereignty. The whole nation supported the armed forces and the government at that time," he said.

But Aqil Shah, author and professor at Georgetown University, said the conflict "was dominated by air combat, not land-based operations" which are typically associated with field marshal honours.



- 'Most powerful man' -



"This is a case of 'autocratic legalism'," Shah told AFP. "In no other democracy is the army chief of staff the designated joint service chief."

Shah said that the change granting Munir immunity from prosecution "makes redundant Article 6 of the constitution, which criminalises military coups".

AFP has contacted a spokesman for the Pakistani military for comment.

"Field Marshal Asim Munir has become the most powerful man in Pakistan," said defence analyst Naeem Khalid Lodhi, a retired lieutenant general.

"The politicians are responsible for making him even more powerful. For their short-term interests, they have put Pakistan's long-term interests at stake," he told AFP.

A coalition of parties considered pliable to the powerful military formed a government after Pakistan's February 2024 elections, in which Khan -- the nation's most popular politician -- was jailed and barred from running.

Shuja Nawaz, an author and expert on South Asia, sees the amendment vote as a survival strategy.

Politicians "renewed their insurance policy," he said.

"Munir's five-year term will outlast theirs, and they expect his support when elections come."

To Lodhi, "the constitution governs the affairs of the state, and only a genuinely representative government can amend it."



- Need for stability -



Nawaz said Munir now "probably has as much power" as the late military ruler Pervez Musharraf, who seized power in 1999.

"Like Musharraf, he has a subservient prime minister and the authority to reshape the army's structure," he said.

Nawaz noted that Munir, in his new role as chief of defence forces, can also overhaul military command and "modernise the force".

The lifetime rank was not unusual and follows British tradition, Nawaz added.

"Field marshals don't retire. They may leave a post, but they remain field marshal for life," he said.

Munir has already scored some diplomatic wins, including a private lunch with US President Donald Trump.

But, Nawaz warned, "Trump is unpredictable, and India remains a bigger draw for Washington.

"Pakistan's future lies in a strong economy and stable political system -- neither of which it has right now."
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This is a project that goes beyond the presidential election, that goes beyond the Galway by-election and goes into the next general election, that we campaign as distinct parties, but unite where there is common purpose.
The demolition of the Austin Convention Center continues on Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

A petition that threatened to derail the citys $1.6 billion expansion of the Austin Convention Center has been deemed invalid.

A group known as Austin United Political Action Committee claimed last month to have collected enough signatures from registered voters to place an item on the ballot next May that would essentially allow voters to decide whether to continue with the project, which has already brought the demolition of the old structure.

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But the City Clerk disagreed this week, saying the group hadnt met the 20,000-signature threshold.

We were shocked and disappointed at the City Clerks conclusion, Austin United PAC said in a statement Friday.

The group has argued the convention center project is a misuse of public resources during a time of financial strain, and that it unfairly diverts public funds from local music, arts, cultural and outdoor tourism initiatives.

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The expansion initiative is being funded by hotel occupancy taxes, which are paid by visitors staying in local hotels.

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The Austin Convention Center Department this week released renderings of the new $1.6 billion expansion project known as Unconventional ATX. The current convention center is set to close in April for demolition. Provided by the Austin Conventio

City leaders have stood firmly behind the project, saying it will boost the economy, create thousands of hospitality jobs and generate even more hotel occupancy tax revenue. Theyve also rejected the PACs claim that it diverts money from the arts, noting that hotel occupancy tax revenue is legally restricted to tourism uses.

In a recent op-ed, Mayor Kirk Watson noted that Austin voters had rejected a similar measure in 2019 and said it was time to move forward on the project.

"Our staff routinely turn down major events because we dont have the space," he wrote. "Those marquee events go to other cities that reap the economic benefit."

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But Austin United remains adamant, saying Friday it planned to take prompt action to ensure the proposed ordinance is considered by the Austin City Council or placed before voters  and that it will pursue legal action if necessary.
FILE - Extra Strength Tylenol is shown in Carmel, Ind., Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025. Michael Conroy/AP

A Texas judge on Friday denied Attorney General Ken Paxtons request to block the maker of Tylenol from issuing claims that the painkiller is safe for pregnant women and young children, and from paying out $400 million in dividends to shareholders as the case proceeds, court records show.

Panola County Judge Lann Rafferty did not explain her rationale in the one-page order.

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Paxtons legal team has argued that Johnson & Johnson and its spinoff company Kenvue failed to warn consumers that the drug could cause autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Studies have not found conclusive evidence of a direct link between Tylenol and either disorder, and many doctors and scientists say it is safe.

Paxtons team did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

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In a statement, Kenvue said the lawsuit defied science, and placed the health of women and children at risk.
Integration Therapys Rebecca Avery Talks Metadata Transformation and AI's Impact on Streaming

Integration Therapy Owner and Principal Rebecca Avery joins Future Frames Podcasts Doug Daulton to discuss the challenges of technology integration and metadata transformation and risk mitigation in this candid and wide-ranging interview from Streaming Media 2025.

Streaming Network Transformation and Metadata Translation

Avery says that her consultancy, Integration Therapy, which aims to help streaming media operations that leak revenue, has that name for two reasons: Integration because streaming networks are complex things, streaming networks, and Therapy because I know how it feels to try to scale a company when things aren't working.

She goes on to say that what she and her company are mainly focused on now is working with streaming networks who are either getting ready for a major transformationwhich a lot of broadcast networks are streaming arms areor they're experiencing hypergrowth going out into new markets or expanding their content libraries. And most of the work that I have been called in to do is about changing from many to one, streamlining what I call the 'content superhighway' system.

Asked by Daulton to expand a bit on what that means, Avery says, There are actually several different things that you need to look at when you are changing out what feels like something that's just tech ops or tech, the first being strategic alignment. Industry benchmarks actually put lack of strategic alignment at a 30% revenue leak for many companies," she continues. So Integration Therapy's aim is to help these companies "really understand what they're trying to do and why they're trying to do it. What's efficient. Metadata translation. So, my sweet spot is metadata. I am the chair of the Metadata Working Group for the SVTA. It's my first love. And then also there's team development then technology integration as part of that. When you change one of those five things, it affects the other four. So that's part of what I'm there to oversee."

She goes on to explain that "where most streaming companies have been in the past is one of two paths. One is either 'We're just going to change our metadata 'cause we just need to do a heat-seeking missile targeted fix,' or 'We're going to call in McKinsey and we're going to do a gigantic transformation that's very expensive and very disruptive to the company.' I'm here to provide that middle path and to start as a heat-seeking missile and then pull back for a second and say, 'If you want to move fast, start slow and, when we make these changes, here are the things that's going to affect and here's how we can mitigate that risk and not lose the pace that your company needs to function.'"

Daulton concurs on the "start slow to move fast" approach. "If you're doing that consistently, you're going to be getting better results quicker rather than just trying to throw everything at the wall and then see what sticks."

I think that's more important now as technology lifecycles are getting shorter and as there are more and more levers for streaming companies to pull to go for monetization because they want to pivot so much, Avery says. If you're not stable at your core, you're just going to start falling apart.

AI in Streaming and Meeting the Localization Challenge

Reflecting on her experience at the conference so far, Avery highlights the AI discussions on various panels. This whole community has been making AI such a part of the conversation and I've really enjoyed the talks, the panels that I've been in and the panels that I've gotten to watch about how that conversation is starting to shift and say, 'okay, we understand that we are in the age of AI. Given that context, where are we with everything else? What do we want to become?'"

Talk to me a little bit about your perspective on AI in the space, Daulton says.

"I think it is a huge game-changer," Avery affirms. "Like I said, my first love is metadata, and that is one of the first places that AI has really gone in. I recently published an article that says we talk too much about AI because we've been kind of obsessed with, 'Well, what is AI? How does it work? What are its limitations?' And I think as a result, a lot of the companies that are developing AI for the media space are lacking a little bit of clarity on what they need."

Avery goes on to say that one area where AI has made an immediate, demonstrable impact is localization (aka localisation). That is one of the few places that media immediately went, 'Oh, we need to localize, not just translate, but we need to be able to push out in Europe.' AI has done a really amazing job stepping up to that challenge. And now I am lucky enough to be part of the intelligentsia who's defining what all of the next things are for discoverability rights management and all the places AI can go."

"I think it's not so much that we're talking about AI too much, it's that maybe we're talking about the wrong applications: the focus is on gen AI and the creative piece, Daulton contends. Really, the immediate bang for the buck is on these things like metadata acquisition, cataloging, and localization, getting these things that both make the cost of creation lower and also create and expand markets that. Things that are not as sexy, but they're integral to success. Would you agree with that?

"Definitely," she says. "I remember the days when metadata wasn't sexy and it's finally getting its time in the sun. It just won an Emmy, so that's great. I would also argue that we've been looking kind of at the wrong lens. So I have been working with giant enterprise companies as well as smaller startups and something that really happened probably starting about three years ago when ChatGPT was about to release and people were kind of on the edge of their seats. The conversation was, how can AI help solve my problems? To me that sounds like how can that monkey wrench help fix my Jeep? And I really think that we can flip the conversation and say, 'Here's what I want. Here's how I want to optimize my operation.'"

One of the challenges of predicting or assessing AI's likely impact in the streaming space or trying to explore long-range possibilities and cultivate future development is that in this industry, "tech lifecycles are fairly short." On the one hand, Avery says, "we have these green pastures of saying, 'How do we want to monetize? What do we want the experience to be? How are we going to reshape our UI in a way that doesn't just look like a recycled version of somebody else's and make it interactive and do something special and really challenge technology?'" But too often, the conversation is limited to, "What's been developed today?" And in a sense, she concludes, "It doesn't matter because by the time you learn it, it's going to be in a new generation anyway."

I think that's an interesting perspective," Daulton replies. "So, as you're trying to figure out what the problem is in the first place or what the solutions might be, you may define something that you can't solve right now, but you put it on the board and say, 'Somewhere down the line, we're going to get some kind of solution.' So you're not trying to solve a problem that exists, but there's not a monkey wrench to apply to it yet.

"I think to solve the problems that exist, to understand how to prioritize those, you should be looking at your longterm," Avery advises. "What do you want to do in three years or five years beyond five years is very tricky right now, but you should be looking at, 'Where do we want to be?' And I think that there is a huge horse race right now of all these AI companies that are trying to win. I think media has the potential to be a very influential customer of AI, and I think that if there is enough clarity of vision in this industry, we can actually help impact how AI gets developed and for whom."

Ethical Applications for and Implications of AI

"One of the interesting things about the work you're doing," Daulton says, shifting the conversation a bit, is that "you're not coming at it from the technology side or [viewing AI through a] technology lens to begin with. You're coming at it from a human lens. 'How is this going to benefit the person in the pipeline that's doing the job? How is it going to affect the business bottom line? How's it going to affect the audience and the creation of more and better content or greater access?' And one of the things that near and dear to my heart is the idea of ethical applications. Could you speak a little bit to that?"

"There are a lot of different ways that companies can win in more than one way," Avery says. "There are ethical applications from the point of view of, 'How are you treating your internal team when you are putting in AI?' And I think that there is actually a very neutral way to do it. One I always say when I'm talking about accessibility panels is, 'If you're not a good person, don't worry. I probably have a fiscal reason for you to do the right thing anyway.'"

"I love that so much because doing the right thing is a benefit in and of itself, and particularly when you think about all this generative AI stuff," Daulton chimes in exuberantly. "If you're doing the right thing and you're bringing things on-prem and you're doing things where you're building an IP chain that may cost you some money, it might be doing the right thing, but it also protects you in the long run from legal challenges and other things."

"It does, Avery says, and it protects you from over-laying off and then realizing your AI can't do what you thought it could do and accumulating a huge amount of data debt and then having to rehire back people, which honestly is a thing that's kind of happening in some ways and it's just creating more confusion. There's huge cost overhead to having that kind of employee churn."

Going further into the consequences of excessive layoffs (AI-driven or otherwise), Avery goes on to say, "There is a term called 'organizational trauma' that happens whenever there's layoffs. There's been this new thing of 'I've been affected by the layoff' and my first thought is always, 'No, man, you got laid off and the people left behind were affected by the layoff.' This hurts everybody. It affects the trust of the teams. The quality of your product invariably sinks. It affects the trust of your audience, it impacts the economy. The ripple effects are almost non-stop."

Join us December 9-11 and tune in for more great conversations at Streaming Media Connect! Registration is free and open now!

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An Indiana National Guard soldier was killed and three others were injured Friday in a multi-vehicle crash on I-65 in Boone County, Ind.

The loss of any of our Guardsmen is tragic, and we offer our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the soldiers family, loved ones and friends, the Indiana National Guard said in a statement released Saturday.

The soldiers were assigned to Company D, 2nd Battalion, 151st Infantry Regiment.

According to a Facebook post from the Boone County Sheriffs Office, the crash involved one Humvee, an SUV and a car hauler truck.

One soldier was pronounced dead at the scene, the sheriffs office said. The three injured soldiers were transported to a hospital. The drivers of the other vehicles were treated at the scene.

We take our responsibility to soldiers and their families seriously, Maj. Gen. Larry Muennich, Indiana National Guard adjutant general, said in the statement. As an organization, we become a family to each other, and the death of a fellow service member resonates throughout the force. We offer our sincerest condolences to the soldiers family, friends and fellow soldiers. The loss is felt deeply, and we will continue to provide support to his family.

Indiana Gov. Mike Braun also expressed his sympathies.

The Indiana National Guard is always there for Hoosiers and our communities, and we must always be there for them in their time of need and tragedy. I extend my deepest condolences to the soldiers family and friends, Braun said.

The soldiers were traveling in a convoy from the Frankfort Armory to Camp Atterbury for training on a drill weekend when the accident occurred.

The accident is under investigation. Names of the soldiers have been withheld until next of kin have been notified.
The crew aboard the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Pierre brings the ship to life during the commissioning ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, in Panama City, Fla. (Kassandra Alanis/U.S. Navy)



The newest ship in the Navy, the USS Pierre, was commissioned Saturday in Panama City, Fla.: Welcome to the fleet, said Navy Secretary John Phelan, who gave the keynote address.

Pierre is the 19th and final Independence-variant littoral combat ship. The ship bears the name of the capital city of South Dakota.

This is a moment of pride, not only for her crew, but for the shipbuilders of Austal USA, for the city of Pierre, S.D., and for all who will serve aboard her in the years ahead, Phelan said. This is not just a milestone, but a critical step forward in strengthening our Navy and ensuring Americas global maritime dominance.

Phelan praised the shipbuilders, the sponsors and the namesake city.

Our defense is above all the work of a nation united in purpose. (The ships) motto, On the move, On the hunt  drawn from the citys official motto  captures her continuous mission to find, hunt and neutralize threats before they can harm our sailors or Marines, he said. That mission is backed by serious capability: mine countermeasures, anti-submarine warfare capabilities, and a flexible mission bay and flight deck that can embark helicopters, unmanned aerial systems and small boats, allowing this crew to respond rapidly to evolving threats or humanitarian operations in some of the worlds most challenging littoral environments.

Also among the speakers was the ships sponsor, Larissa Thune Hargens, a native of South Dakota and the daughter of Senate Majority Leader John Thune.

Today marks a moment of pride, purpose and profound connection between the ship, her crew, her namesake city of Pierre and our great nation, Hargens said. As the ship sponsor, I again commit my support and appreciation to each of you and each crew who follows in your wake.

The commissioning of the Pierre marks the end of an era.

Littoral combat ships are fast, nimble vessels prized for their abilities in coastal areas and the open ocean.

In the early 2000s, shipbuilders developed two variants, Independence and Freedom, each capable of surface warfare and mine hunting. The ships have different hulls and are designed and built by separate shipbuilders.

At one point, the Navy planned to have the ships make up about one-sixth of the services oceangoing fleet.

But the Independence variant suffered costly setbacks and delays, including cracked hulls and propulsion issues.

About 17 Independence-class vessels are active.

The Freedom variant also was plagued by propulsion problems and other costly issues. As a result, the Navy in 2022 proposed mothballing nine Freedom-class ships well ahead of their end-of-service dates. Ultimately, five of the ships were saved.

About 10 Freedom-class ships remain in service, according to the Navys website. The variants final vessel, USS Cleveland, is planned to be commissioned this fall, according to usscleveland.org.

The service now is prioritizing production of the Constellation-class frigate, which it says delivers a more powerful punch.

But with the aging Avenger-class minesweepers nearing retirement, the Navy recently designated at least three Independence-class ships  USS Canberra, USS Tulsa and USS Santa Barbara  to be homeported in Bahrain.

The USS Pierre  led by Cmdr. Justin Guernsey  will have a crew of 112 and depart Panama City next week, making several stops before arriving at its homeport of San Diego in December.

In the week leading up to the commissioning ceremony, the Pierre crew spent time around Panama City, hosted tours onboard for local organizations and built ties with the city hosting their ships commissioning ceremony.

Following her address, Hargens asked the crew to board the ship: Officers and crew of the USS Pierre, man our ship and bring her to life.

Aye, aye maam, the crew responded.

Contributing: Stars and Stripes reporter Shannon Renfroe
The Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Wichita departs Naval Station Mayport, Fla., on Nov. 14, 2025, to support U.S. Northern Commands southern border operations. (Brandon J. Vinson/U.S. Navy)



The USS Wichita has left Naval Station Mayport in Florida to begin a deployment at the southern border, according to a service news release.

Wichita will replace the USS St. Louis, which returned Monday.

The Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Wichita departed Friday. It will work together with the Department of Homeland Security to support the border operations that President Donald Trump has made a top priority in his second administration.

The Wichita will operate with a Coast Guard law enforcement detachment on board that officials have said brings specialized expertise in maritime interdiction to help address a range of challenges, from countering illegal activities to supporting humanitarian efforts and homeland security operations.

The deployment comes as the Pentagon has added more troops to its border operations, where U.S. forces  mostly soldiers and Marines  have provided Customs and Border Protection officials with a range of support, including reconnaissance, construction, logistics and airlift capabilities.

USS Wichita stands ready to relieve St. Louis as the leading edge for NORTHCOMs homeland defense mission, said Cmdr. Travis Snover, Wichitas commanding officer. We will carry on the dedication, impact and hard work of our fellow shipmates and will live up to our motto as the Keeper of the Seas. 
President Donald Trump is joined in the Oval Office by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine. (Tom Brenner/For The Washington Post)



Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine returned to the White House on Friday for a second consecutive day of deliberations centered on potential military action in Venezuela, as U.S. forces in the region prepared for possible attack orders, according to people familiar with the matter.

It remains unclear if President Donald Trump has decided to pursue such an escalation, though high-level discussions over whether to strike Venezuela  and how  have been underway for days, these people said, speaking on the condition of anonymity because the matter is highly sensitive. Also joining the White House meeting were Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, these people said.

A White House spokesperson declined to comment. The Pentagon press office did not respond to a request for comment.

An administration official said a host of options have been presented to the president. Trump is very good at maintaining strategic ambiguity, and something he does very well is he does not dictate or broadcast to our adversaries what he wants to do next, the official said.

Any strike on Venezuelan territory would upend the presidents frequent promises of avoiding new conflicts and betray promises made to Congress in recent weeks that no active preparations were underway for such an attack. It also would further complicate U.S. cooperation with other Latin American countries, and deepen suspicions  there and in Washington  over whether Trumps endgame is the forced removal of Venezuelas president, Nicolas Maduro, whom Trump has accused of sending drugs and violent criminals to the United States.

Maduro, a socialist strongman, first came to power in Caracas in 2013 and increasingly has become a fixation for Trump. In August, U.S. officials increased the reward for information leading to his arrest and conviction from $25 million to $50 million, citing alleged ties to drug cartels and U.S. beliefs dating back to the Biden administration that he lost a 2024 presidential election and refused to step down.

The United States is very plugged in to whats going on in Venezuela, the chatter among Maduros people and the highest levels of his regime, the administration official said. Maduro is very scared, and he should be scared. The president has options on the table that are very bad for Maduro and his illegitimate regime.  We view this regime as illegitimate, and its not serving the Western Hemisphere well.

The United States maintains a massive military advantage over Venezuela, but a significant expansion of its activities also risks exposing American troops to grave danger. Fighter pilots aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford, an aircraft carrier thats been dispatched to the region, have been studying Venezuelan air defenses, though they did not yet know whether theyll be ordered to attack, a person familiar with the matter. The Venezuelan Defense Ministry has announced a massive mobilization of nearly 200,000 air, ground and navy personnel to prepare to defend the country.

U.S. planning has raised the possibility, too, of involving the militarys elite Delta Force, according to two people familiar with the matter. The highly trained Special Operations unit prepares for an array of capture and kill missions, and saw frequent usage in two decades of U.S. wars in the Middle East.

In recent weeks, Trump and his top advisers have sent mixed signals about the administrations intentions. He has repeatedly voiced a desire to expand to the land a campaign that has killed an estimated 80 people aboard small speedboats alleged to be smuggling drugs through the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean. Yet as Congress debated legislation to prevent him from starting a war in Venezuela, Hegseth and Rubio privately told select lawmakers that the administration was not currently planning to do so  an assurance that helped persuade enough Republicans to reject the measure.

During a late-October briefing on Capitol Hill, members of the House Armed Services Committee asked military officials whether the Pentagon was planning any operations inside Venezuela, a Democratic lawmaker said. They were assured then as well that the answer was no, the lawmaker said.

Im starting to have a major trust deficit with the department, this person said of the Pentagon, speaking on the condition of anonymity because the briefing they received was classified. And Im starting to believe that their motives are not pure and that theyre not being truthful and candid with Congress.

The Trump administrations binding legal defense of its military operations around Latin America does not seek to justify an attack on Venezuela itself, according to several people who have reviewed the document.

Two separate lawmakers said that the administrations argument sought to blend the laws that govern criminal drug trafficking with the laws of armed conflict.

The document compared narcotics to chemical weapons, the people said. It also justified the lethal strikes by claiming the U.S. is acting in collective self-defense with allies such as Colombia and Mexico against drug cartels funding campaigns of violence in their countries through the drug trade.

But the lawmakers, and many legal experts, argue that the comparison is misguided. Drug trafficking is a civilian criminal offense rather than an armed attack carried out by enemy combatants, who pose an imminent threat to American citizens.

Harboring drug runners has never been considered a use of force under international law or an attack under international law, said Dan Maurer, a former Army judge advocate general who now teaches at Ohio Northern University, on a call with reporters Thursday.

The New York Times and Wall Street Journal previously reported elements of the administrations argument.

The Trump administrations sprawling military mission in Latin America has roiled some of Washingtons closest partners in the region. Colombia, a longtime collaborator on counternarcotics operations, this week said it was suspending its intelligence sharing with the United States over what the countrys president, Gustavo Petro, said was a human rights imperative.

Mexicos president, Claudia Sheinbaum said this week that representatives from her government met with U.S. officials after a recent U.S. strike about 400 miles from Acapulco to reaffirm existing maritime agreements and prevent the use of bombing against vessels so close to Mexicos territory. Sheinbaum has said previously that we do not agree with these attacks.

The representatives from the two countries reached an understanding that if U.S. officials have information about suspected drug-trafficking vessels near Mexico, the Mexican Navy would be tasked with intercepting those boats, Sheinbaum said. The meeting took place after the Mexican Navy was asked to help with a search and rescue after the U.S. boat strike near Mexico late last month, according to two Mexican government officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the private conversation.

The U.S. Embassy in Mexico declined to comment.

With the arrival of the Gerald R. Ford, there are about 15,000 U.S. troops in the region, including personnel spread across roughly a dozen warships and reinforcements sent in recent weeks to U.S. facilities in Puerto Rico. Collectively, it marks a stunning presence in a region that historically has seen only one or two Navy vessels at a time, along with the U.S. Coast Guard conducting routine drug-interdiction operations that typically resulted in the detention of alleged smugglers and confiscation of any contraband.

As of Friday, there were seven U.S. warships in the Caribbean. They included the guided missile cruisers USS Gettysburg and USS Lake Erie; the destroyers USS Gravely and USS Stockdale; and the amphibious ships USS Iwo Jima, USS Fort Lauderdale and USS San Antonio. The Ford was nearby in the Atlantic with the destroyers USS Mahan, USS Bainbridge and USS Winston S. Churchill.

Samantha Schmidt in Mexico City, and Isaac Arnsdorf, John Hudson, Ellen Nakashima and Noah Robertson in Washington contributed to this report.
U.S. Marines in Haiti exchanged gunfire this week with suspected gang members, U.S. military officials said Saturday, in an incident that highlights the precarious security environment in the island nation.

The incident occurred Thursday evening, said Capt. Steven Keenan, a Marine Corps spokesman. He said in a statement that Marines supporting embassy security operations were fired upon in the capital city of Port-au-Prince and then returned fire. None of the Marines were injured, he added.

Keenan said this is not the first time that gunfire has been aimed at U.S. personnel in Port-au-Prince this year, but it is the most significant.

U. S. Marines are committed to the safety and security of U.S. embassies worldwide and respond to all threats with professionalism and swift, disciplined action, Keenan said.

The State Department, U.S. Embassy in Haiti and U.S. Southern Command, which oversees military operations in the region, did not respond to requests for comment.

The incident, which has not previously been reported, comes after the Pentagon last year bolstered security at the embassy in Haiti as it was beset by gang violence. The country has been mired in chaos for years and has had no elected president since 2021, when Jovenel Moise was assassinated.

Haiti is run by a transitional presidential council that took power last year and has struggled to establish order. Armed gangs control about 85 percent of the capital, according to the United Nations.

In August, the U.S. Embassy in Haiti said in a statement that a contingent of U.S. Marines had arrived to provide security for our diplomatic post and coordinate an eventual rotation of Marines who were deployed previously to bolster embassy security. The deployment, the embassy said, allowed the U.S. diplomatic mission to continue its assistance to Haitian police and a multinational security mission.

The embassy is open for emergency services. In previous security alerts this year, it has disclosed previous incidents with heavy gunfire nearby.

The State Department in 2023 evacuated nonemergency U.S. government employees from the embassy. It has instructed U.S. citizens not to travel to Haiti.

Haiti has been under a State of Emergency since March 2024, the department said in a travel alert posted in July. Crimes involving firearms are common in Haiti. They include robbery, carjackings, sexual assault, and kidnappings for ransom.
High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers assigned to the 25th Infantry Division are positioned at the 2-11 Field Artillery Regiment motor pool on Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, July 16, 2025. (Duke Edwards/U.S. Army)



HONOLULU (Tribune News Service)  The 25th Infantry Division at Schofield Barracks is in the closing stages of its annual Hawaii rotation of its Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center training as it puts one of the Armys first mobile brigades to the test.

This exercise specifically, JPMRC 26-01, is a final validation for our 3rd Mobile Brigade, as the division has gone through transformation and contact, said division Sgt. Maj. Shaun Curry in a roundtable with journalists Thursday. When we complete this, the division will turn into the continual transformation underneath the Armys next step. So the entire division will have restructured itself. Some units have gotten smaller, some units have gotten bigger, and then weve given ourselves some tech to move forward.

The 3rd Mobile Brigade is set to be a blueprint for reorganizing the division, and Army forces more broadly, for high-tech warfare in a potential conflict with China. The unit trained in the Philippines earlier this year with new equipment, including drones and 3D printers, and recently received the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, or HIMARS, for its artillery, giving it the range and ability to strike targets across island chains.

The unit is meant to move faster, strike harder and use newer technology as the Army seeks to gain an edge. Army leaders have sought to showcase how the service is adapting its arsenal, tools and tactics based on what analysts have watched unfold in real-world battlefields around the globe  notably in Ukraine  and from the experiences U.S. troops have gained training across the Pacific.

JPMRC includes training in ranges in Hawaii and Alaska, as well as an exportable version of the exercise that goes to other countries in the region, which so far has included Australia and the Philippines.

Tensions have ramped up in the Western Pacific as the South China Seaa busy waterway that nearly one-third of all global trade travels throughhas become increasingly militarized over the past decade. Beijing claims nearly the entire sea as its exclusive territory over the objections of neighboring countries, and tensions have been mounting over territorial and navigation rights.

Chinese forces also have ramped up operations around Taiwan, a self-ruled island democracy that Beijing regards as a rogue province.

(JPMRC ) is our combat training center that we use to train our brigades that deploy into the Pacific region through Operation Pathways, said the 25ths commander, Maj. Gen. James Bartholomees. This is (U.S. Indo-Pacific Command) and U.S. Army Pacifics campaigning effort to place combat-credible forces into key terrain so that we can rehearse our plans, so that we can train alongside our partners, and then so that we can be ready to respond if needed.

This iteration of the exercise officially kicked off Nov. 3 and includes troops from the U.S. and seven other countries.

On Oahu, training and maneuvers took place around Bellows Beach, Dillingham Army Airfield, the Kahuku Training Area, the Kawailoa Mountain ranges, Helemano Plantation, Ford Island and the Schofield Barracks East and South ranges. Training also has taken take place at the Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii island and on Maui at the Puunene Hawaii National Guard Readiness Center and Kahului Airport.

The exercise originally was also going to include some training in the Philippines, but Army officials said the recent super-typhoon that hit the country changed plans significantly. But Thursday morning, the 25th sent some of its HIMARS on aircraft bound for Wake Island to practice getting them into position.

Its basically a HIMARS raid in which C-17 (aircraft) will rapidly land, the HIMARS will offload, conduct a simulated fire mission that they receive en route, theyll get back on the aircraft and fly back, Bartholomees said.

This is a technique that is new to our division as the HIMARS platform has only been fielded within the last six months. Its a part of our transformation initiative, but is one of the most complex joint training events that we can conduct that display the combat-credible capability of ground army land fires across the archipelago.

Col. Daniel Von Benken, commander of the 25ths Division Artillery, or DIVARTY, said he and his soldiers are testing mixing old and new tech, using cannons and missiles mixed with new drones they have been testing in the field that can do jobs from reconnaissance to acting as loitering munitions, basically remote-controlled flying bombs that can be piloted directly to a target.

Many of the weapons are new to the soldiers, who taught themselves to use them within weeks. One sergeant said that as members of the Xbox generation, the young soldiers have been quick to adapt.

The 25th has been conducting the exercise as the Army and the state of Hawaii continue negotiations over the future of training lands in the islands.

The Army signed 65-year leases to train on several parcels of state land for a mere $1, which are set to expire in 2029. Both the Army and the state have faced lawsuits over the years on how several of the parcels have been used, with issues around unexploded ordnance, toxic exposures, endangered species, ancient Hawaiian cultural sites and other concerns.

On Thursday, Gov. Josh Green announced the formation of a state commission to work on the issue.

There are other combat training centers across the United States Army, Curry said. We have one at Fort Polk (in Louisiana), we have one at Fort Irwin (in California), which is primarily desert, and then one more in Germany  . The reason why we do it here is because none of those three allow us the ability to island hop, which is very important for us if we were called (to the Western Pacific).

The exercise is slated to wrap up Sunday.

2025 The Honolulu Star-Advertiser.

Visit www.staradvertiser.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Idaho has become the first state to end Medicaid funding for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. This marks a shift away from concerns about inflated billing and variable outcome metrics toward a model focused on measurable and inclusive care. As a pediatrician who participated in NIMH-RUPP trials and has observed the clinical evolution of ABA, I recognize the significance of Idahos decision. The state acted proactively rather than awaiting federal audits or repayment actions.

The new framework (codified in Idaho Admin. Code r. 16.03.26.323 and effective July 2025) replaces ABA with Behavioral Intervention (BI) and habilitative skill-building under the Childrens Habilitation Intervention Services (CHIS) model. Oversight moves from private clinics to school-based IEP teams. Services are aligned with educational access rather than normalization goals, and the structure is expected to reduce fraud risk.

Idahos reforms are projected to save $7-10 million annually in Medicaid spending on autism services. These funds can be redirected to adults with disabilities, seniors, and children with complex medical needs. Seven other states have previously repaid portions of their federal Medicaid match due to ABA-related billing issues, resulting in financial penalties and administrative consequences. Idahos legislation (HB 345 and State Plan Amendment 23-0011) aimed to prevent similar outcomes.

Historical discussions about ABA include ethical concerns regarding early methods. Ole Ivar Lovaas, a key figure in the development of ABA, was featured in a 1965 Life magazine article titled Screams, Slaps, and Love, which described the use of aversive conditioning, including electric shocks and physical reprimands. The article included photographs of barefoot children receiving electric shocks and being slapped across the face, images that documented sanctioned brutality. These practices have been widely re-evaluated in light of modern ethical standards.

Lovaass early life in Norway included his familys association with the Nasjonal Samling (NS), a fascist party that collaborated with German occupiers during World War II. Hans Asperger, similarly, cooperated with Reich pediatric selection protocols in Vienna, protocols that routed disabled children to Spiegelgrund, a pediatric killing center operating under the Nazi Aktion T4 program. Though not formally labeled a concentration camp, Spiegelgrund functioned as one: Children were subjected to starvation, lethal injection, and medicalized murder. Asperger referred patients there and praised its director, Erwin Jekelius, a known architect of child euthanasia.

These affiliations speak volumes about their view of medical ethics. They were not passive associations; they were acts of ideological alignment. To omit this context is to sanitize history.

The ethical implications of Lovaass clinical methods have been reviewed in peer-reviewed literature. In Pediatrics, Bowman and Baker published a historical analysis titled Screams, Slaps, and Love: The Strange Birth of Applied Behavior Analysis. The article describes the use of aversive techniques at UCLA and situates these methods within the broader behavioral science environment of the 1960s. Lovaas is quoted as describing autistic children as not people in the psychological sense, framing therapy as an effort to build the person.

Leo Kanner, another foundational figure, popularized the refrigerator parent theory, suggesting that cold, emotionally distant parenting caused autism. He was wrong. Behavior modification is a two-way street. Lovaas used coercion to change childrens behavior. Kanner assumed that parental behavior shaped the child; when in fact, the childs lack of response to affection and reinforcement reshaped the parent. Kanners patients were wealthy families who could afford to travel to Johns Hopkins and pay out of pocket. In the 1940s, there was no employer-based health insurance system like the one Henry Kaiser would later pioneer. Access to care was a function of class, not coverage.

The behavioral change was 180 degrees from what Kanner assumed. Autistic children, through persistent non-response, altered adult behavior. They were the more effective behaviorists. They were the expert BCBAs.

Contemporary debates about ABA continue. International behavior-analytic organizations have increasingly emphasized consent and autonomy, while some U.S. standards continue to permit practices rooted in compliance-based methodologies. ABAI formally opposed the use of electric shock devices in 2022, and although the BACB prioritizes reinforcement over punishment, exceptions remain in policy language.

In North Carolina, litigation is ongoing. In Wake Superior Court Case No. 25CV039433-910, an injunction has temporarily maintained existing ABA reimbursement rates. According to court filings, adverse financial outcomes are possible if reimbursement structures remain unchanged, with implications for other Medicaid services. Developmental-behavioral pediatricians have not been included among expert witnesses in that case.

Idaho has taken the first step in implementing a new model. Whether other states will adopt similar approaches remains to be seen.

Ronald L. Lindsay is a retired developmental-behavioral pediatrician whose career spanned military service, academic leadership, and public health reform. His professional trajectory, detailed on LinkedIn, reflects a lifelong commitment to advancing neurodevelopmental science and equitable systems of care.

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Dr. Lindsays research has appeared in leading journals, including The New England Journal of Medicine, The American Journal of Psychiatry, Archives of General Psychiatry, The Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology, and Clinical Pediatrics. His NIH-funded work with the Research Units on Pediatric Psychopharmacology (RUPP) Network helped define evidence-based approaches to autism and related developmental disorders.

As medical director of the Nisonger Center at The Ohio State University, he led the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) Program, training future leaders in interdisciplinary care. His Ohio Rural DBP Clinic Initiative earned national recognition for expanding access in underserved counties, and at Madigan Army Medical Center, he founded Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) CARES, a $10 million autism resource center for military families.

Dr. Lindsays scholarship, profiled on ResearchGate and Doximity, extends across seventeen peer-reviewed articles, eleven book chapters, and forty-five invited lectures, as well as contributions to major academic publishers such as Oxford University Press and McGraw-Hill. His memoir-in-progress, The Quiet Architect, threads testimony, resistance, and civic duty into a reckoning with systems retreat.
A gavel rests on the judges bench in a courtroom. (Joshua Magbanua/U.S. Air Force)



(Tribune News Service)  A Fort Collins, Colo., man was sentenced Wednesday to 52 years in the Department of Corrections for holding a family hostage, including an 8-year-old child, on Dec. 12, 2022, according to court records.

Rick Murphy, 47, accepted a deal in the 8th Judicial District Court on Sept. 22, in which he pleaded guilty to second-degree kidnapping, a class three felony; second-degree assault, a class four felony; and criminal attempt to commit first-degree assault, a class four felony, according to court records.

On Dec. 12, 2022, Murphy entered the home of a longtime family friend with a handgun and held the residents of the house hostage while demanding that they produce his twin brother. Fort Collins Police Services SWAT team and crisis negotiators responded to the scene and the child was released and recovered by officers, but the two homeowners were assaulted and sustained moderate injuries. Murphy eventually surrendered to law enforcement, an 8th Judicial District press release stated.

Being attacked and held hostage in your home is unimaginable, and the terror Mr. Murphy inflicted on these victims is horrific, District Attorney Gordon McLaughlin said in the press release. I hope that this resolution can help them to begin to heal.

Murphy is considered a 100% service-connected disabled veteran because of mental health issues he suffers as a result of his service in the Navy; he was first diagnosed in 2002 with major depressive disorder.

One of the victims, who was not named, said they believed the 52-year sentence was fair and appropriate, the press release stated.

We remain deeply saddened by the events of that day and the impact they have had, the victim said in the press release. Our hope is that Rick receives the support and rehabilitation he needs during his time in prison.

His remaining charges were dismissed by plea, according to court records.

I am incredibly proud of our team for securing a significant sentence that fits the gravity of the crime, and Im thankful to law enforcement for their response, which ensured that day did not end in greater tragedy, McLaughlin said in the press release.

 2025 Loveland Reporter-Herald, Colo..

Visit www.reporterherald.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The creed of compliance

In every hospital, a grotesque comedy unfolds: Poor Sod, our hapless patient, lies gut-shot, aorta spewing like a B-movie fountain. Clinicians, faces blank as overcooked porridge, scurry in a choreographed panic, clutching flowcharts like sacred scrolls. Monitors bleep like a chorus of lobotomised parrots. A registrar, mad enough to trust his gut, tries a life-saving stunt not in the Holy Manual. A nurse, eyes glinting with the zeal of a Spanish Inquisitor, hisses, Thats not protocol! Poor Sod expires, but the paperwork? A bureaucratic Mona Lisa, flawless and serene.

The process was followed, chants the ward manager, a high priest of banality. Medicines soul slinks off, tail between legs. Compliance, that paper-pushing Pol Pot, reigns supreme. Checklists garrote courage; forms embalm judgment. Were not healers; were clerks in a Kafkaesque circus, dancing for auditors while patients choke. (U.S. health cares gatekeeping obsession: safety as a clown show of risk-dodging.)

Bureaucratic evil: a Lovecraftian farce

This isnt evil with a cape and a cackle; no Hannibal Lecters in scrubs. Its a squamous, bureaucratic monstrosity, a clipboard-wielding Shoggoth oozing red tape. Decent clinicians, trembling like scolded spaniels, bow to its mantra: Follow the algorithm, and ye shall be absolved. Deviate? Heresy! Burn at the stake of HR!

Arendts banality was amateur hour. Here, the ideology is process, a cult where the algorithm is Cthulhu, and audit committees are its gibbering acolytes. Tick the box! they howl, as Poor Sods pulse fades. Fear, of lawsuits, audits, or a sternly worded email, drives this lunacy. Doctors, once Hippocratic heroes, are now snivelling scribes, failing with pompous precision rather than saving with reckless brilliance.

The cult of the algorithm

Flowcharts were once humble Post-it notes for the frazzled. Now? Theyre the Ten Commandments, carved by the trembling hands of ATLS, ACLS, NICE, and WHO. Airway, Breathing, Circulation! they bellow, as if death trembles at acronyms. Stray from the scripture, and youre frog-marched to Remedial Hell.

Evidence-based medicine? A sick joke. Were not practising EBM; were staging a Three Stooges skit of it. Datas mangled, correlations canonised, deviations drawn and quartered. Gunshot aortas die faster than arrhythmias, so the protocol smirks, Im infallible! (ATLSs dogma is a pricey farce, great for rookies, lethal for experts.) The hospitals a theatre of the absurd: Compliance struts centre stage, patients shooed to the wings like stagehands.

Judgment under siege

Ive waltzed this macabre tango. Ive cracked chests, pumped hearts like soggy bagpipes, and clamped aortas to snatch minutes from deaths jaws, all without the flowcharts blessing. Reward? A one-way ticket to ATLS Re-education Camp for botching the ritual chant.

Bureaucratic evils core: Procedure devours judgment like a bureaucratic Pac-Man. The system doesnt ask, Did you save Poor Sod? It demands, Did you salute the checklist? Phronesis (Aristotles term for not being a brain-dead drone) gets a firing squad. Experience? A punchline. Outcomes? Meh. The algorithm is a jealous god. (Studies nod at deviations saving lives; experts mock rigid protocols.) Traumas chaos laughs at flowcharts, but try telling that to the Clipboard Inquisition.

The false god of audit

Audits are bureaucracys crack cocaine, addictive, delusional, and courtroom-sexy. Committees swoon over them, mistaking box-ticking for sainthood. Its as useful as tattooing a lifeline on Poor Sods corpse: pure pantomime. (Bureaucracys bloat jacks up costs, throttles innovation, and lets patients slip.) Ticked boxes dont revive; they canonise failure.

Demand reflective peer review: What happened? Why? Repeat? Punish sloth or spite, not bold bets in crisis fog. Anything less is a bureaucratic black mass, incense of red tape choking the wards.

Moral cowardice and the profession

Medicine, once a saga of swashbuckling healers, now grovels before bureaucracys guillotine. Why? Fear: of lawsuits, inquiries, or a tut-tut from Compliance Officer Doom. Obedience is the golden calf; initiative, a tar-and-feathering. Dutys no longer to Poor Sod but to the Great Ledger of Ticked Boxes. Checkbox ethics castrates moral imagination. Courage? A fossil, like bloodletting.

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A life-saving field now cowers, guarding its arse while Poor Sod flatlines.

Evidence, audit, and the self-fulfilling farce

Evidence-based medicine here is a clown car of bad science. Audits fake causality, crowning correlations as kings. Protocols preen: We were obeyed, so were divine! High-risk cases (gut-shot aortas, septic tots) crave improvisation but die anyway, proving the flowcharts gospel. Patients are props, their deaths mere stage notes in this bureaucratic vaudeville.

The way forward: courage over clipboard

Hopes not in committees; those are the farces villains, bumbling like Sharpes dons. Its in mutiny: Teach judgment, not parrot tricks. Reward audacity, not arse-kissing. Embrace medicines glorious mess; no algorithm tames it.

In the next crisis, ask: Did we dare? Did we think? Did we save? Shatter the flowchart like a cheap pinata. Choose lives over ledgers. Bureaucratic evil festers like gangrene: amputate it.

Conclusion

Medicine should be a Viking saga of guts, wits, and heart. Instead, bureaucratic evil, dressed in procedural drag, peddles ritual, fear, and spinelessness. It crowns process emperor, banishes conscience, and tosses care into a shredder.

We wont guillotine the bureaucracy overnight, but we can steal back medicines soul. Train thinkers, not automatons. Honour Poor Sod, not protocols. Revive moral imagination before its smothered in forms.

Because Poor Sod doesnt care about your bloody flowchart; he wants you to act.

Bryan Theunissen is an orthopedic surgeon in South Africa.
Medicine is more than biology; it is organization. Every country builds its system of care according to its culture, economy, and priorities. In Japan, where I have spent the past few years, health care feels like an extension of social rhythm: precise, deliberate, quietly humane. In the United States, where I trained, the emphasis is on innovation and specialization, but often at the cost of coordination. Now, as I prepare to teach medicine and global health at Fudan University in Shanghai in the spring of 2026, I have been studying how China has created a model of its own: one defined not by philosophy or tradition, but by scale, structure, and speed.

Chinas most striking characteristic is its capacity for scale. With a population of 1.4 billion, health care cannot depend on small efficiencies; it must operate like a vast ecosystem. The country maintains a three-tiered network: community clinics, county hospitals, and large tertiary centers, linked through national policy. In practice, many patients bypass the lower levels and travel directly to major urban hospitals. A leading institution in Shanghai may see more than 10,000 outpatients in a single day.

That density has shaped a distinctive clinical style: fast, focused, and algorithmic. Consultations are brief, documentation streamlined, imaging and laboratory testing astonishingly quick. The system prizes throughput because it must. For an American or Japanese physician accustomed to longer encounters, the pace feels disorienting. Yet there is also a certain elegance to it: Decisions are data-driven, protocols are standardized, and the entire workflow is built to move patients efficiently from symptom to solution.

My colleague and co-author, Dr. Myriam Diabangouaya, knows that rhythm firsthand. Originally from Africa, she trained at Fudan University and now practices at Juntendo University Hospital in Tokyo. Chinese hospitals teach you to think in systems, she told me. There are hundreds of patients waiting, so you learn to recognize patterns quickly, to triage intelligently, and to act decisively. The experience forces you to balance compassion with efficiency. She describes her training as rigorous and intensely practical: long hours in busy wards, early exposure to real patients, and constant feedback from residents and faculty working in teams that often blur departmental boundaries.

That sense of pragmatism extends into medical education itself. Chinas national standard, the 5 + 3 model, consists of five years of undergraduate medical training followed by three years of standardized residency. Some universities, including Fudan and Peking Union Medical College, also offer eight-year integrated MD-PhD programs for top students. Unlike the U.S. model, where medical school follows a bachelors degree, or Japans highly uniform curriculum, Chinas system is vertically integrated and centrally coordinated. The Ministry of Education and the National Health Commission jointly oversee curricula, ensuring alignment between academic goals and national health policy.

That alignment is what makes Chinese medical education distinct. When the government emphasizes rural primary care, universities expand community-medicine rotations. When public health priorities shift toward chronic disease management or aging, curricula adapt within a single academic year. Few nations can synchronize medical education and health-system reform at this scale. The result is a workforce trained not just for hospitals, but for the countrys evolving epidemiologic and demographic needs.

The systems responsiveness became globally visible during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospitals were reorganized within weeks, telemedicine platforms deployed nationally, and students were mobilized as part of emergency response teams. Medical education blurred with public service. For many Chinese trainees, the pandemic was both a crisis and a practicum in collective medicine, proof that clinical skills and civic responsibility can develop side by side.

Compared to Japan, where hospital hierarchies remain formal and progress depends on seniority, Chinese institutions function more like technical hubs, where competence and results often outweigh age or title. Compared to the United States, where decentralization fosters innovation but fragments care, Chinas system benefits from state-driven coherence, the ability to implement reforms rapidly and uniformly. That coordination allows for sweeping initiatives: standardizing residency training nationwide, establishing electronic medical-record interoperability, and expanding national health insurance to cover nearly the entire population.

Of course, scale brings strain. Urban-rural disparities persist, specialist shortages remain, and physician burnout is a growing concern. The doctor-patient relationship can be tested by volume and expectation. Yet even these challenges are met through structural solutions: investment in community hospitals, digitization of referrals, and performance metrics aimed at balancing equity with efficiency. In China, reform tends to be iterative rather than rhetorical, adjusted through feedback, data, and sheer administrative momentum.

For Dr. Diabangouaya, that pragmatism was formative. At Fudan, youre reminded constantly that medicine is part of national development, she said. Every lecture connects clinical practice to population health. You see how education, research, and policy move together. That perspective still shapes how I practice in Tokyo. Her words capture the essence of what makes modern Chinese medicine unique: It treats health care not only as a profession, but as infrastructure, something engineered, maintained, and continually upgraded to meet collective need.

As I prepare to teach at Fudan next spring, I dont view China as a contrast to Japan or the United States, but as a third reference point in understanding how systems can organize care. Where America builds through competition and Japan through harmony, China builds through coordination. It is medicine scaled to a nations size, disciplined by data, and driven by a shared sense of utility. Together, these experiences have deepened my understanding of medicine in the Far East, a region where health care is not just practiced, but continually reimagined.

Japan showed me the quiet discipline of healing; China reveals the power of structure and scale. As I continue to learn from both, I see not separate systems, but a continuum, one in which the future of global medicine may already be taking shape, in the hospitals and classrooms of the Far East.

Vikram Madireddy is a neurologist. Myriam Diabangouaya is a physician.
The Buffalo Bills are hoping that an old friend can spark things in the passing game on Sunday when the team hosts the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

On Saturday, Buffalo announced the following roster moves and elevations, including an elevation for wide receiver Gabe Davis.

Signed WR Mecole Hardman from the practice squad.

Activated DT T.J. Sanders from injured reserve.

Released CB Brandon Codrington

Elevated WR Gabe Davis and TE Keleki Latu from the practice squad.

Davis is expected to step into an immediate role in the passing game, almost exactly one year to the day that he tore his meniscus as a member of the Jacksonville Jaguars. The veteran has been rehabbing the injury with Buffalo since signing with the practice squad in early September.

This week, Davis spoke on the team needing to be more consistent, as well as playing to their standards.

Honestly, I just think we have to play to our standards, Davis told the media. I feel like we all, as a collective, forgot about how hard it is to win. It doesnt matter who we play. Its about us, and we got to go out there and play our game.

In his first stint with the Bills, Davis proved to be a big-play threat, averaging 16.7 yards per catch. He will look to pick up where he left off with Josh Allen starting tomorrow.

Hardmans signing to the main roster may have some faster than some expected, but the move makes sense. Buffalos return game has struggled this season, and the veteran will provide an immediate boost in this area. Hardman could also see some time on offense depending on the teams inactive list tomorrow.

Defensive tackle T.J. Sanders will provide a boost to the teams depth at defensive tackle. Sanders will join Larry Ogunjobi and Jordan Phillips behind the teams starters, DaQuan Jones and Deone Walker. Buffalos second-round pick showed flashes early in his rookie season pre-injury, but will need to be more consistent going forward.

Keleki Latu had a strong summer at Bills training camp and was elevated for tomorrows matchup with Dalton Kincaid out of action. Latu will serve as Buffalos No. 3 tight end behind Dawson Knox and Jackson Hawes.
Sullivan, N.Y. - A house in Madison County was severely damaged by a fire on Saturday, but a person in the house and five dogs got out safely.

At about 11:57 a.m., firefighters arrived at 8520 Whitelaw Road in the town of Sullivan to find the front of a 1-1/2 story house fully-engulfed in flames, according to Bridgeport Fire Department Chief Jim Ostrowski.

Firefighters found fire concentrated in the front and center section of the house when they got inside, Ostrowski said.

It took crews from eight surrounding fire departments about an hour and 40 minutes to extinguish the fire, he said.

Crews had difficulty extinguishing the fire because there were no fire hydrants nearby and they had to bring water in, he said.

Firefighters were still working on putting out hotspots at around 2 p.m.

The homeowners son was inside the house when the fire broke out, but he got out safely, according to Deputy Chief Bob Olmstead. Five German Shepherd dogs also safely got out.

No injuries were reported.

No cause has been determined. The fire may have been started from a wood stove inside the house, Olmstead said.
The day before the attack, a senior physician at a Catholic university hospital in Taiwan sat with young medical students at noon, talking not about lawsuits or hospital finances, but about Brahms. He loved four-hand piano pieces, especially Brahmss Hungarian Dances, and he would explain how two players must breathe together, listen to one another, and balance passion with discipline. For him, this was also a lesson about medicine: You never play solo; you always carry others with you.

The next afternoon, that same physician was in his clinic when a former student walked in, pulled out a craft knife, and slashed his hand and abdomen.

It was not an argument about a diagnosis. It was not a tragic mistake in treatment. The physician had long been fully acquitted by the High Court of earlier accusations about university financial decisions. Yet the assailant, still stuck in the anger of his student days, had convinced himself that attacking this senior physician was an act of justice.

The public in Taiwan was shocked. But for many clinicians around the world, the story felt disturbingly familiar. Hospital violence has been rising in many countries. What is distinctive here is the way a young adult, shaped by online echo chambers and simplified moral narratives, turned a settled legal case into a personal mission.

In those echo chambers, nuance disappears. Court judgments, due process, and evidence become background noise. What remains is a dramatic script: There is a villain, there is a hero, and there must be a scene of punishment. Once someone accepts that script, real people become symbols, and symbols are easy to attack.

For the physician involved, this attack was especially bitter because of who he is and how he practices. He is widely known for his integrity, his role in building a teaching hospital in an underserved area, and his deep commitment to students. He often stays late to teach, even when his schedule is already overloaded. He plays the piano at hospital events, using music to encourage staff and patients. His injured hand is not just a clinical detail; It is the hand that has written orders, signed diplomas, and accompanied Brahms for generations of trainees.

Taiwans national health insurance system, like many publicly-funded systems, has a paradoxical payment structure. The more patients a doctor sees, the lower the effective payment per consultation. Time spent explaining a complex condition, comforting a frightened family, or mentoring a resident is not rewarded. Senior physicians often earn less than the public imagines, despite their heavy responsibilities and longer hours.

Older clinicians stay because of vocation, not money. They are the ones who quietly carry institutional memory: How past crises were handled, which treatment plans work in real-life, which patients need an extra phone call after discharge. When such clinicians become targets of misplaced frustration or political anger, the system loses far more than one pair of hands. It loses a living archive of judgment.

This case also exposes how poorly our current systems detect early warning-signs. The assailant had posted increasingly extreme messages online before the attack. He framed his actions in the language of justice and sacrifice, telegraphing that there will be news today, and even inviting journalists to be present. Many of these signals were public, but no one had the capacity, or perhaps the mandate, to connect them into a credible threat.

This is where artificial intelligence enters the story, not as a tool of mass surveillance, but as an ethical responsibility. AI cannot fix moral anger, and it should never be used to monitor private conversations or punish dissent. But under strict governance and human oversight, AI can help institutions notice patterns that humans are too overwhelmed to track. For example:

Detecting sudden escalations in language related to self-harm or targeted violence on public channels linked to a hospital or university.

Flagging concerning combinations of behaviour, such as repeated threats against specific staff combined with attempts to access restricted areas.

Supporting triage of security alerts so human teams can respond faster and more proportionally.

This is not about predicting individual crimes. It is about giving overworked safety teams another set of eyes and ears in a digital environment where one frustrated person can broadcast an intention to thousands before stepping into a clinic.

At the same time, AI can help protect elder clinicians in more ordinary, but equally important ways. Decision-support tools can reduce documentation burden, allowing senior physicians to spend less time on repetitive typing and more time on bedside teaching. Scheduling algorithms can be designed to account for age, physical strain, and the need for recovery time. Natural-language tools can help filter and respond to abusive messages before they reach clinicians directly.

The core ethical question is this: If a health system depends on older physicians to keep care accessible, what obligations do we have to keep them safe?

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Older clinicians are not cost centers to be minimized. They are the Brahms players of our hospitals, carrying themes begun decades earlier, holding tempo when the rest of the ensemble is tired, and improvising small adjustments that make the whole piece work. Their value cannot be captured by relative value units, point-systems, or patient-throughput charts.

When one of them is attacked, especially by someone who once called himself a student, the injury runs along an invisible line of trust. Students trust that teachers will guide them. Teachers trust that students will grow beyond anger into understanding. Patients trust that hospitals are places of healing, not staging grounds for public punishment.

In this case, even after being attacked, the physician did not speak harshly of his assailant in front of the media. He thanked people for their concern and tried to reassure his students. Many of us who know his story felt that his response was an extension of the same quiet, musical discipline he shows at the piano: Never hit back louder than necessary; always listen for the next phrase.

But his restraint should not be an excuse for institutional inaction.

We need hospital policies that treat violence against clinicians as a systemic failure, not a personal misfortune. We need educational programs that help young people distinguish between legitimate structural critique and the fantasy of heroic vengeance. And we need AI tools, designed with transparency and strict limits, to help identify risks before another hand is raised in anger.

Brahms knew that a performance could fall apart if one partner rushed ahead or dragged behind. Modern health care faces the same danger. When public anger races forward, and institutional protection lags, the result is dissonance: Clinicians are injured, patients lose trust, and young people learn the wrong lessons about justice.

Our elder clinicians have already given decades of their lives to the score. The least we can do is ensure that they are not left alone on stage.

Gerald Kuo is a graduate student in Taiwan.
After seeing Garrett August Heaters Lizzie Borden Took an Axe, for the first time I find myself wondering what would Dateline have done with the story of Lizzie Borden if the events had taken place now? How many true crime podcasts would breathlessly pore over police reports and forensic evidence?

As it is, the tale of the maybe murderess who, according to the jump-rope rhyme, gave her mother 40 whacks, in 1892 is an enduring American mystery. Borden, who was tried and found not guilty for the double murder of her wealthy father and her stepmother in Fall River Massachusetts, has become a figure of folklore, the center of a particularly New England brand of true crime story.

Lizzie Borden Took an Axe is a skillful retelling of the events surrounding the killings, blending a melodramatic family saga with snippets of court transcript and speculative inner monologues from principals.

Lizzie Borden was Covey Theaters inaugural offering 15 years ago, and Heaters company has put it up several times since then with much of the same cast. At this point, the production is a well-oiled machine, which makes it no less effective.

The current staging, at the Everson Museums Hosmer Auditorium, makes fine use of the spare lecture hall space with only furniture and detailed costuming suggesting the 1892 setting. The family drama seems to hang somewhere in the air, giving it the feeling of a familiar but bloody soap opera, which of course is how the Borden tragedy has been portrayed in the popular media and the arts.

Simon Moody as Andrew Borden and Jodi Bova-Larham as Lizzie Borden. AB Photography

The Borden family seems to have been built for this representation. Father Andrew was a wealthy skinflint, holding tightly onto his adult daughters, Emma and Lizzie, who were already considered spinsters. He was on the verge of changing his will to give his second wife, Abby, family property his daughters felt should be theirs. The siblings held no love for Abby, whom they called Mrs. Borden.

Borden had also recently killed a brood of pigeons beloved by Lizzie. The night before the crime, John Morse, the brother of his first wife arrive for an overnight visit. Morse was there to discuss business and claims to have been out of the house on errands when the deaths occurred. Maid Bridget Sullivan, the sole family employee was washing windows and claimed to have seen nothing.

All that is in the record and has been mulled over in dozens of plays, films and books. In Lizzie Borden Took an Axe Heater dabbles in theories that have accrued over the years about the killings, with hints of incest and hidden sexuality as well as tensions over the family fortune. He doesnt lean heavily into any one possibility, but stitches them into a particularly American quilt. The skillful acting and graceful direction by the playwright create that quilts complex pattern.

In Heaters retelling, Lizzie appears to be a kleptomaniac. The first time we see her, she is pocketing a piece of her sisters jewelry (The real-life Lizzie was accused of shoplifting later in life). As Lizzie, Jodi Bova-Larham is nowhere near the impassive presence that stares back at us in of the photo of the real Lizzie we see in crime literature. She is in turn kittenish, petulant and enigmatic, appearing to float above the chaos that the murders have created. The effect is unsettling.

As played by Carmen Viviano-Crafts, Emma is a repressed spinster holding on for dear life against emotions that might explode if she lets down her guard. The dynamic between the dour older sister and the sometimes ebullient Lizzie is fascinating.

Simon Moodys Andrew is a properly New England type, at once distant and vaguely sinister. Hes very much the dark figure of a Victorian father we often see onstage where put-upon daughters rise up and free themselves from domination. Kate Huddleston gives Abigail Borden a nagging edge without tipping over into villainy.

The rest of the cast is sterling. Sean Galuszka is a bracing presence as John Morse, breaking the rhythms of the household with his entrance. Sara Weiler is a properly frazzled and beset Bridget Sullivan. Jordan Glaski as Dr Bowen, the neighboring doctor, Amy Bader as Alice Russell who appears to be Lizzies only friend, and Aubry Ludington as busybody Adelaide Churchill all add interesting threads to the conversation.

Show Details

What: Liz Borden Took an Axe produced by The Covey Theater Company

Where: Homer Auditorium, Everson Museum of Art, Syracuse.

When seen: November 14.

Length of performance: 2 hours 5 minutes with 1 intermission.

Attendance: Approximately 60.

Family guide: High school. The violence is offstage, but there are crime scene photos projected.

Runs through: November 22.

Information: Coveytheater.com, CoveyNews@gmail.com
Syracuse, N.Y. The state is spending $7 million to ease congestion and improve safety at several of northern Onondaga Countys busiest intersections, according to the state Department of Transportation.

The work will rebuild seven junctions in the towns of Clay and Cicero and the village of North Syracuse, state officials said in a news release Friday. Some of the work is already underway while the rest is expected to be completed by fall 2026, they said.

The upgrades are designed to improve traffic flow at key access points to Route 481, Interstate 81 and other heavily traveled roads, while also adding new safety features for pedestrians and bicyclists.

The project includes redesigned ramps, new crosswalks, updated traffic signals and expanded lanes along sections of Route 31, Route 11, Soule Road, Lakeshore Road and Bear Road.

Changes are aimed at reducing daily backups that routinely affect commuters in the fast-growing northern suburbs, the officials said.

Route 481 and Route 31

Construction is already underway in Clay, where the Route 481 northbound off-ramp to Route 31 is being widened from one lane to two. The change is intended to prevent traffic from backing up onto the highway and to improve access to the busy commercial corridor along Route 31.

Farther south, beginning in spring 2026, work will start on the Soule Road on-ramp to Route 481 south. That ramp will also be expanded to two lanes before tapering back to one at the merge point. The redesign is meant to improve traffic flow for drivers heading toward Route 31, nearby neighborhoods and Oswego Road.

Crabtree Lane and the I-81 interchange

In Cicero, major changes are planned along Crabtree Lane near the Interstate 81 interchange. The road will be reconfigured so drivers can no longer turn left onto southbound Route 11, and Crabtree Lane will become a no-outlet street at Route 31. A new crosswalk will be added on the east side of Route 11.

Once Crabtree Lane is closed at Route 31, the state will build a dedicated right-turn slip lane from Route 31 east to the I-81 south on-ramp. The ramp itself will be widened to two lanes. A new crosswalk with rectangular rapid-flashing LED lights will be added across Route 31 in the busy commercial district.

Lakeshore Road and Route 31

The intersection of Lakeshore Road and Route 31 will also see upgrades. Plans include a new traffic signal with video detection, a dedicated left-turn lane on southbound Lakeshore Road and a new crosswalk on the north side of Route 31.

Route 11 and Bear Road

In North Syracuse and Cicero, Route 11 at Bear Road will be restriped and reconfigured to provide two left-turn lanes for drivers heading east on Bear Road, a through lane toward Main Street, and a right-turn-only lane for westbound Bear Road traffic.

Bear Road itself will be widened to three lanes between Route 11 and the Route 481 ramps. Additional changes at the Route 481 southbound ramp include the creation of two left-turn lanes for east Bear Road traffic entering the highway and an added lane on the ramp. The existing slip ramp from westbound Bear Road to Route 481 southbound will be removed; drivers will instead use the traffic signal.

Pedestrian upgrades and project timeline

Throughout the project, the state will replace outdated curb ramps and install new ones to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Drainage improvements and new pavement work are also planned.

The Priority Intersections Project is funded by the state and is expected to be completed by fall 2026.
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Health care executive Kimberly Smith discusses her article Why clinicians must lead health care tech innovation. Kimberly explains why clinicians, who are on the front lines of patient care, are in the unique position to solve health cares most complex challenges. As a registered wound care nurse, Kimberly has seen how technology like AI and advanced EHRs can both help and hinder clinical workflows. She argues that for health care tech to be effective, it must be developed with clinicians, not just for them, to ensure new tools ease administrative burdens and enhance patient care. This conversation explores how to bridge the gap between tech developers and frontline staff, ensuring the next wave of health care innovation is built from a clinical lens first. Learn why the future of health tech depends on the invaluable insight of clinical innovators.

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Transcript

Kevin Pho: Hi, and welcome to the show. Subscribe at KevinMD.com/podcast. Today we welcome Kimberly Smith. Shes a wound care nurse and health care executive. Todays KevinMD article is Why clinicians must lead health care tech innovation. Kimberly, welcome to the show.

Kimberly Smith: Thank you. Thank you for having me.

Kevin Pho: All right, lets start by briefly sharing your story. Then well jump right into your KevinMD article.

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Kimberly Smith: OK, great. My background is primarily in home health care. I spent most of that time as a wound and ostomy nurse, which is what I like to call the Navy Seals of nursing. Its extremely hands-on, unpredictable, and definitely not for the faint of heart.

I started there, got my hands in patient care and learning all about them, and found out that if we didnt have something, if it didnt exist, we created it. There were lots of opportunities where we could be innovative and make some changes in how we deliver patient care.

Kevin Pho: Now tell me how you made that transition from being on the ground, so to speak, into an executive role.

Kimberly Smith: It was a long journey. I started seeing patients and then quickly moved into a corporate role so I could make a larger impact. I ran a multi-state program where we had multiple wound care nurses in the field doing wound care.

I was able to start using some virtual technology at that point to do online consultation, which was new back in 2013; that wasnt heard of. I think I had the unique opportunity to build that program from the roots up. From there I headed into med device, where I learned a lot about product development, client education, and teaching patients and clinicians on how to use those devices.

Ive moved into Net Health into my current role, which is a clinical executive where I help shape the products and make sure that that clinical voice is interpreted to our engineering team. Thats a neat journey and has led me to lots of opportunities.

Kevin Pho: Lets talk about your KevinMD article, Why clinicians must lead health care tech innovation. For those who didnt get a chance to read your article, tell us what its about.

Kimberly Smith: This article centers on one idea: that clinicians should be at the forefront of innovation. We shouldnt be developing technology just for innovations sake. It should fit some of the problems and answer some of the challenges that we have in the field.

This came from sitting in meetings where a lot of new technology was introduced to us by leadership. These tools were designed with the best of intention. They looked great on the surface, but when you use them in the field, it just created more work.

What I wanted to say with this article is that we have these tools and theyre being built for clinicians, but not with them, and were missing the mark. Thats a recipe for disaster if you dont have a clinical voice when youre building clinician tools. I wanted to challenge that mindset and remind people that clinicians dont just use these tools; we live with them patient by patient, hour by hour. Were the ones who are using them.

Imagine this: Youre in a patients home. You need to take a photo of a wound for documentation. In a hospital setting, thats easy. You just snap the photo. But in the home, theres no lighting, no one to help you turn the patient. Theres a cat crawling across the bed, and now your photography app requires Wi-Fi that you dont have. Its so incredibly frustrating.

My purpose for this article was to show how the clinicians voice is essential in shaping the future of health technology. If were not involved early, these tools drift away from reality and theyre not useful. Developers can often miss things like interoperability, regulatory compliance, or even the basic connectivity issues that we face in the field. I think that is so important that we keep the patients in mind, that we keep the clinicians in mind, and drive our innovation having their voice first and foremost.

Kevin Pho: You mentioned that sometimes if these tech tools arent clinician-led, it could lead to more work for the clinicians. What would be some examples of technology like that that creates more work because they dont have a clinician spearheading the development?

Kimberly Smith: Sure. Lets take an EMR, for example. An EMR is developed, and we always have these regulatory issues, the compliance issues, and theyre ever-changing. The regulatory and compliance issues are important. They are certainly important because that helps us deliver the ideal patient care and get the ideal patient outcomes, but we have to know how to capture the good work that were doing out there.

Sometimes thats a big challenge. EMRs are developed to hopefully capture all of those things together, but they have to be streamlined; they have to be efficient. Dont hand me a tool and tell me that its going to save time when its more work. It has to be less work. But if you give me that tool and it does save time and it gives me time back with my patients, thats incredibly important to clinicians.

Kevin Pho: Now when you say that you have input in spearheading the device that your company makes, tell us what goes on behind the scenes. How do the engineers incorporate your feedback to them?

Kimberly Smith: There are so many things. First and foremost, I think the most important thing is being face-to-face with clinicians, being out in the field and spending time with them to see how its being utilized, to see the things that were not seeing in a test environment, that we dont see the hiccups, we dont see this alert coming.

Spending that time with clinicians and understanding what this technology means to them day-to-day is the first and foremost. We also have advisory panels where we have clinicians who come in, sit with us, tell us about the real-world uses, and make suggestions. Just being open to that feedback, welcoming that feedback, and soliciting that feedback from our clinicians is very, very important.

We also have conferences. We bring these clinicians into one space to collaborate and network. I think that is huge too, because when youre talking with other clinicians in the same environment, you are seeing them face-to-face, and that starts ideas. We gather all those ideas in one place and then are able to translate that into our product. What makes sense for our product? Does it make sense for one clinician, or does it make sense for the whole? We have to weed through some of that as well. But understanding that clinical voice and understanding what its like day-to-day is the most important part in developing technology with the clinician in mind.

Kevin Pho: Now would you say that that scenario is the norm among health IT companies? Speaking in general, do the majority of them incorporate clinician input when developing their products?

Kimberly Smith: I would like to say yes, that should be the norm. Is it? I think it depends on the size of the company, how long the company has been around, and whos leading. I definitely think theres a lot of opportunity for growth in that area, and thats what is sparking this article, too. Not only from the clinician side: You need to stand up and have a voice. Also to the companies who develop these products: Dont forget that this is the most important thing. It is to have that clinician voice, put these processes in place to elicit that feedback so that youre developing what is needed out there, not just for developments sake.

Kevin Pho: You write in your article that health systems evaluate tech based on cost and ROI, return on investment. How can clinical leaders make a stronger case that ease of use for the care team should factor into that return on investment?

Kimberly Smith: One gap I see that happens over and over, and its not just in health tech, its in med device or any product that the hospital system brings on, is that a lot of times, the process is that folks who are not seeing the patient at the bedside are making these decisions. Some of that is logistical, and I know it makes sense on some ends, but I have to start from the ground up.

Have your clinicians who are seeing these patients day in and day out have their voice heard, and start from the problem and work toward a solution. Dont develop or bring on new technology just because you think that itll fix some problems. Make sure that these are the problems that are causing that gap and that the solution is going to answer those challenges.

Kevin Pho: Let me ask from the perspective of the clinician, a nurse or a doctor. Lets say they had an idea for a new tech tool but didnt have any instruction in terms of how to navigate that business side of innovation. What kind of advice do you have for that clinician?

Kimberly Smith: I would say that you have to find the right person within that technology company to give you that instruction. Sometimes its not always clear who you need to speak to, and sometimes you just dont know what you dont know. You want to make sure that youre getting the most use out of the technology that you have.

I think thats true of all of us. I have an iPhone, but do I know everything that iPhone can do? Absolutely not. Is it up to me to research that and find that information? So, my biggest point of advice would be to never stop learning. Dive deeper. Figure out what the solution can do and how it can help you. You may spend some time on the front end learning that, but its going to save a lot of time on the back end using that solution to the best of its ability.

Kevin Pho: In your article, you noted that in rural hospitals, or in rural areas in general, things like internet service that we take for granted are sometimes a major barrier for something as basic as the electronic medical records. Now talk to us about how that illustrates some of the blind spots of tech innovation and how important a diverse set of clinical feedback is when developing products.

Kimberly Smith: You bring up a great point. Not only do we need to bring clinicians in, we need to bring clinicians in from all aspects, from all sides. If were just focusing on those large hospital systems, the ones that you hear about all the time, those folks may be in cities, they may be in areas that have great connectivity. Well, what about those folks who are seeing patients in rural South Carolina, like where I live?

Thats huge. If you have to have connectivity, and we think in 2025 that everywhere should have Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity, the reality is that they just dont. If your solution relies on that connectivity to function, its not going to work for all of your clients, and thats going to be really frustrating.

Not only is it going to be frustrating, its going to slow down patient progress and affect our patient outcomes because the clinicians that are seeing these patients dont have the tools that they need and the information at their fingertips to do the best work for their patient.

Kevin Pho: Now you are in that intersection between health care and innovative technologies. So many products are happening so fast, especially in the field of artificial intelligence. Im interested in hearing your perspective. In the next coming months, what do we have to look forward to? What kind of clinical problems do you think are ripe to be solved by technology in the coming months?

Kimberly Smith: I think one thing that Im focused on is how data and AI can support better decision-making. Not take away that clinical judgment, but extend it. Technology can do things already that I think are amazing. It used to take three people to do.

Now we have AI-powered imaging. We have flags for those patients who are at risk for deterioration in wounds. We can predict when a patient is going to develop a pressure injury. Those are huge and theyre definitely powerful, especially when you think about the shortage of wound care specialists. We are being asked to cover more patients with fewer hands. When technology is used right, it helps clinicians work to the top of their license.

I think the most exciting thing for me is to use those data analytics, to use that AI so that we can get better care to a bigger patient population, because the reality is that our patient population is just getting bigger. There are more and more patients with fewer and fewer resources. How do we change from the current care model? Do we look at telehealth? Do we look at asynchronous visits where we can use our specialty license or our certifications to make a bigger impact on our patients?

Kevin Pho: Were talking to Kimberly Smith. Shes a wound care nurse and health care executive. Todays KevinMD article is Why clinicians must lead health care tech innovation. Kimberly, lets end with some take-home messages that you want to leave with the KevinMD audience.

Kimberly Smith: Sure. What excites me right now is the convergence of our clinical urgency and our technological possibility. Our patients dont wait, and neither can our solutions. My advice to clinicians is to step up, have your voice heard, identify those problems that we need to fix, identify those gaps that are affecting our patient outcomes, and have your voice. And then my advice to health care administrators and to our technology companies is to listen to those clinicians. Seek them first. When youre developing, when youre being innovative, see whats out there, what needs to happen, and use this technology in a way that improves the lives of our patients.

Kevin Pho: Kimberly, thank you so much for sharing your perspective and insight, and thanks again for coming on the show.

Kimberly Smith: Thank you. I appreciate it.
CORRECTED: BHP liable for 2015 Brazil mine disaster: UK court



London, Nov 14 (AFP) Nov 14, 2025



A British court ruled Friday that Australian mining giant BHP is liable for one of Brazil's worst environmental disasters, potentially paving the way for billions of dollars in compensation.

A dam collapse in 2015 at an iron-ore mine run by a firm co-owned by BHP killed 19 people and unleashed a deluge of toxic mud into villages, fields, rainforest, rivers and the ocean.

"BHP are strictly liable as 'polluters' in respect of damage caused by the collapse," the High Court in London said in its ruling following a mammoth trial.

BHP on Friday said it would appeal the ruling.

"BHP has supported extensive remediation and compensation efforts in Brazil since 2015," the company said in a statement.

The victims first filed a UK legal action in 2018 demanding compensation from BHP. At the time of the disaster, one of its global headquarters was in Britain.

The eventual trial at the High Court ran from October 2024 to March this year, and the court has already begun preparing the second phase of the case to determine potential damages and compensation.

During the trial, the claimants' lawyers argued that BHP was aware that toxic sludge was accumulating at the facility in Minas Gerais state, north of Rio de Janeiro, at rates that far exceeded the annual limit.

The lawyers said the build-up contributed to the disaster at the mine, which was managed by Samarco, co-owned by BHP and Brazilian miner Vale.

Judge Finola O'Farrell said BHP had been negligent in monitoring the dam's condition, despite studies and warnings recommending remediation.

"The risk of collapse of the dam was foreseeable," she said.

- 'Now I can be okay' -



Pamela Sena, 31, a housewife and manicurist in Bento Rodrigues -- one of the hardest-hit villages -- said she "started crying with happiness" when she learned of the ruling.

She told AFP of her last morning spent with her family before the torrent of toxic mud killed her five-year-old daughter, Emanuele Vitoria, in the village of Bento Rodrigues.

The daughter was at school that day when Sena got a warning to flee to higher ground as the mud approached. She was told her family was already safely at the highest point of the village.

"But when I got there, they weren't there. And when I looked down, everything was already destroyed," she told AFP. Her husband and son were later found alive.

"Besides losing Manu, our memories, her story, her photos, everything we had went away with the mud. There's nothing left."

She said while no money could bring her daughter back, she was delighted to see justice done after "10 years of struggle, of humiliation after humiliation."

"I needed to hear that justice would be done so I could be okay, and now I can be okay."

- Companies cannot just 'walk away' -



BHP maintained that a compensation agreement it reached last year in Brazil -- worth around $31 billion -- provided a resolution.

However, a majority of the 620,000 claimants, including 31 municipalities, argue that they are not sufficiently covered by the deal.

Instead, claimants are seeking around pound36 billion ($47 billion) in compensation, according to a previous estimate from law firm Pogust Goodhead.

The amount of compensation will be decided at a trial scheduled for October 2026.

Pogust Goodhead chief executive Alicia Alinia said the judgement "sends an unmistakable message to multinational companies around the world: You cannot disregard your duty of care and walk away from the devastation you caused."

Vale and BHP were acquitted in November 2024 of criminal charges by a Brazilian court, which ruled there was insufficient evidence linking them to the dam's failure.

Another similar civil lawsuit has been ongoing since 2024 in the Netherlands.
Press Release from Business Wire: Kweichow Moutai Information Office



(AFP) Nov 15, 2025



BELEM, Nov 15, 2025 (BSW) - On November 10 local time, the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) opened in Belem, a city in northern Brazil. As one of the activities at the China Pavilion of COP30, the Side Event on Ecological Civilization and Beautiful China Practice was held simultaneously, focusing on ecological civilization, sharing China's experience, and building global consensus.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251114596036/en/

China Pavilion at COP30 in Belem, Brazil.



Addressing the topic of green transformation in traditional industries, You Yalin, Deputy Party Secretary of Kweichow Moutai Co., Ltd., shared the company's green transformation practices and experiences from the perspective of a traditional Chinese liquor producer.

"We hope that every bottle of Moutai not only delivers a feast of flavor, but also conveys the idea of harmony between humans and nature. We aim to contribute China's wisdom and Moutai's practices to tackling global climate change and promoting sustainable development, and to develop a green growth model that can serve as a reference for the global liquor industry," he said.

According to You, Moutai upholds "ecological priority and green development" as its core philosophy, firmly safeguarding the ecological integrity of the Chishui River Basin. The company has implemented a range of initiatives in areas such as water resource management, biodiversity conservation, green energy transition, climate action, and circular resource utilization, achieving a comprehensive green and low-carbon transformation across its entire production process. Meanwhile, Moutai has been actively exploring replicable and scalable solutions for river basin ecological protection and industrial decarbonization, contributing both Chinese wisdom and Moutai's practices to the global effort against climate change and for sustainable development.

Kweichow Moutai has established a sustainability framework centered on ESG principles, advancing ecological compensation and collaborative industrial innovation to successfully transform "lucid waters and lush mountains" into "invaluable assets." To date, the company has invested a total of 400 million yuan (US$ 56 million) in ecological restoration and biodiversity conservation in the Chishui River Basin, and has established a national "Two Mountains" practice and innovation base, along with a national-level "Green Factory."







View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251114596036/en/









Contact

PR Contact: EncycloVision (Shenzhen) Brand Communication Co., Ltd.Eason ZhouEmail: [email protected]







 2025 Business Wire, Inc.Disclaimer:This press release is not a document produced by AFP. AFP shall not bear responsibility for its content. In case you have any questions about this press release, please refer to the contact person/entity mentioned in the text of the press release.
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Taylor Swift will no doubt love being compared to Sylvia Plath. Especially when the comparison comes from Maggie Nelson, one of the greatest living non-fiction writers and author of the it-girl philosophical memoir, The Argonauts. Because, of course, Swift is a self-professed tortured poet: a woman who stacks literary references like chord progressions, no bard too sacred, no play or fictional character too obvious to include in a song. This is the woman who put on an auburn wig and signed a copy of her imaginary debut novel All Too Well in the video of the same name.

Despite how she aligns with the literary, theres little that meaningfully connects Swift to Plath  least of all in their work  beyond the fact that both are (or were, in Plaths case) industrious female artists who wanted to be famous and then became icons. Which is reason enough, I guess, for Nelsons new essay-length book, The Slicks: On Sylvia Plath and Taylor Swift, to make a mostly weak case that they are cultural sisters.

The books title comes from a line in Plaths diary: I will slave and slave until I break into those slicks. The slicks being glossy, high-end magazines  the kind Plath longed to conquer, a goal shed surpass before her death at age 30. Promo text for Nelsons book describes it as exploring twin hosts of the female urge towards wanting hard, working hard, and pouring forth  and as twinned targets of patriarchys ancient urge to disparage, trivialise and demonise such prolific, intimate output. After reading it, Im less convinced than I was before. Theyre neither twins nor sisters, perhaps very distant relatives.

With The Slicks, Nelson is doing whats become a cliche of contemporary criticism: flattening the divide between high and low culture, treating poetry (inaccessible, cerebral) and pop (sparkly, unserious) with equal gravity. Its a balance that makes literary criticism more readable, grounded in the real world, and, frankly, more lively  all qualities of Nelsons work. Whether you enjoy Swifts music or not, the comparison is flattering to her. Just when I started to think of dear Maggie in a room forced to write this against her will  blink twice if you need help  Nelson reveals herself to be a card-carrying Swiftie, calling the artist a genius.

The essay works best when you read it as a love letter to Swift or when Nelson is simply offering elegant observations about either woman in isolation. It reminds me faintly of Alana Masseys All The Lives I Want: Essays About My Best Friends Who Happen to Be Famous Strangers, a book I enjoyed on its release in 2017, which takes difficult women like Plath, Britney Spears and Anna Nicole Smith and assesses them via writing that is part cultural criticism, part fan letter. Relatedly, The Slicks makes for an interesting companion piece to Tavi Gevinsons satirical genre-blending zine Fan Fiction, about Gevinsons experience going from being a Swift fan to being Swifts actual friend. After all, Swift has a brilliant ability to pull women in and make them feel intimately acquainted with them.

But The Slicks becomes less effective than either of the above when Nelson attempts to make links between the two artists, in the process writing lines that are factually true but nevertheless could have existed on Tumblr circa 2012: When I think about Swift and Plath together, I find myself returning to a simple thought: Sylvia Plath is dead, and Taylor Swift is alive.

open image in gallery The Slicks examines Swift as a wronged party ( AFP/Getty )

By its premise alone, The Slicks feels quite dated  a relic of that convergence of mid-2010s poptimism and girlboss feminism, whereby every act by a woman was radical and most criticism of pop stars was held up to the light for residue of sexism. A useful time for the progression of humanity but a specific period we have evolved beyond. Its strange to see Nelson willingly step into that trap, to buy into the idea that because some criticism of Swift has had genuinely sexist undertones, all criticism of her does.

When Nelson writes, Last time I checked, Swift was not angling to be a great poet, it doesnt ring true. If there is one thing I believe about Swift it is that her raison detre is to be as famous as humanly possible for being a great writer, which is why it can feel palpably cringey when her work doesnt live up to that. (The Fate of Ophelia, for example, and whatever is happening in the Fortnight video).

Nelsons own defence of Swift as a serious literary artist  for instance, when she notes that all but a handful of the 44 songs on Swifts Eras set list are in the lyric tradition of love poetry  only reinforces that ambition. And when Nelson goes on to add, Some people grouse that Swifts artistry is tainted by its being the engine of a billion-dollar industry welcome to the world of pop music; it aint poetry, the dismissal lands glibly. Its difficult, and perhaps fruitless, to ignore the causal relationship between Swifts art and her capitalistic drive  her last few albums have been increasingly weak, as if the density of money itself were rotting the work from within.

There is a convenient academic flattening of Swift (person, phenomenon, work) as one feminist text that doesnt lend itself to interrogating the biggest artist on the planet at a bizarre cultural turning point for women, music, creativity, money, technology, and most things.

When Nelson writes that resentment of powerful women is most obvious in Maga/incel circles, she also sidesteps Swifts associations with conservative entities

The familiar sexist script that once surrounded Plath, Nelson argues, was on full display in the wake of The Tortured Poets Department: Rote shaming of making the personal public; calls for the artist to look outside herself for subject matter; charges of her vulnerability being faux, or deployed as manipulative marketing tool; tongue-clucks about self-indulgence and being in need of an editor. But this all feels overstated. The bulk of serious criticism about TTPD boils down to something far less ideological: its a surprisingly drab album from a good artist. People wanted a raw, confessional, self-indulgent record about her doomed fling with Matty Healy, but TTPD wasnt quite it. Rather than intimate, the music and the lyricism felt uncanny, almost AI-like. Nelson even calls the record relatively complicated and dark, an odd comment in an essay about Sylvia Plaths suicidal poetry. Did we hear the same album?

In a Guardian interview to promote The Slicks, Nelson claimed that silencing women like Swift is part of a patriarchal project: Theres something about wanting, and naming your want  which I think both Plath and Swift did  that is still generally a punishing sphere for a woman. I dont think thats true, and I dont think its been true for a long time. We live in a culture obsessed with wanting  desiring, manifesting, announcing  loudly. The punishment for women now isnt in wanting too much, but too little. To not strive higher is to present incriminating proof of ones failure to self-actualise. Maybe Nelsons idea was true in Plaths time, perhaps still correct for Nelsons Gen X cohort, but certainly not for Swift or the majority of readers of this essay.

open image in gallery There is little that meaningfully connects the work of Plath (pictured) and Swift

There is little grappling with the discourse surrounding Swift here. People arent put off by her ambition  or by the unapologetic drive of any top-performing artist who dominates the pop industry, from Beyonce to Sabrina Carpenter, the majority of them women  but by what reads to some as greed. In a world this brazenly corrupt, the plutocrat has become a suspect character. As the saying goes, theres no such thing as an ethical billionaire. Or, as Billie Eilish recently put it at a Forbes event attended by Mark Zuckerberg and George Lucas: If youre a billionaire, why are you a billionaire? No hate, but give your money away, shorties.

It can be said that Swift has perfected the art of variant culture, gamifying vinyl collecting and flooding the market with endless editions to inflate sales, with music fans and industry experts now suspecting she releases new versions to block rivals like Charli XCX from hitting No 1. When Nelson writes that resentment of powerful women is most obvious in Maga/incel circles, she also sidesteps Swifts associations with conservative entities like Brittany Mahomes or Barstool Sports, and the quiet conservatism people are correctly or unfairly projecting onto her current image. How much of this is really about female ambition and how much about the ungendered monopolising logic of the market?

The Slicks feels as though it suffers from not having been released a year ago, before the tide turned on Swift

As a Swift fan, Nelson probably couldnt have predicted the cooler reception that followed this years The Life of a Showgirl  the weakest release of Swifts career, too thin even for her devotees to defend. The New York Times dubbed its conservatism an appropriate text for the Trump era, and elsewhere likened the Swift machine to the Marvel franchise: bloated, cynical and tacky. Music overtaken by marketing, is the current party line. Its for this reason that The Slicks feels as though it suffers from not having been released a year ago, before the tide turned.

By the emotional climax and sign-off of Nelsons conclusion, shes completely lost me. When Swift performed Midnight Rain  her self-mythologising hymn to ambition  on the Eras tour, Nelson describes the moment as joyous, even redemptive. It reminded her, she writes, of an image evoked earlier in the essay: Plath, as recalled by her friend Al Alvarez shortly before her suicide, pale and drained, hair unwashed and loose. In Swifts lyric, All of me changed like midnight rain, Nelson hears her and Plaths conjoined commitment to transformation, to going wherever their pour might take them. Its an arresting juxtaposition, but the comparison only underlines the problems with Nelsons reach, too far across time, tone, and tragedy.

One idea from The Slicks has stuck with me though: that there might be self-deification inherent to both artists ambitions. I think I would like to call myself, The girl who wanted to be God, Plath wrote in her Journals. Though Nelson doesnt go on to provide evidence of Swift feeling that way, its fun to imagine that someone like her, who has become a global superpower, does crave that omnipotence. To imagine that appearing in the slicks was nothing to Swift but a micro-step on her way to becoming bigger than God.

The Slicks: On Sylvia Plath and Taylor Swift is out now, published by Penguin
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Alan Cumming was bored. It was the late Nineties, he was making a film called Buddy with Rene Russo, and Hollywood wasnt all it was cracked up to be. I was young and wanted to have fun, the Scottish actor recalls, but I felt like I was always missing the party. Russo tried to shake him from his torpor: Youre making studio movies, youre in Hollywood  Alan, this is as good as it gets, she told him. How depressing, he thought.

Returning to London for some time off  a really debauched few months that he later wrote about in the novel Tommys Tale  Cumming was cast by Stanley Kubrick in Eyes Wide Shut after a long audition process. The role was minuscule  one scene as a flirty hotel receptionist  but Kubrick spent a week filming it, demanding over 60 takes. Most actors would have despaired. Cumming didnt. Instead, he was totally reinvigorated by Kubricks famed fastidiousness, rediscovering exactly what had first drawn him to acting. Every detail was so exciting, he remembers. There was mutual respect; Cumming believes his attitude of I wont be taking any s***, Mr Kubrick helped land him the part. We just had a lovely time together.

The period before that had really put him through the wringer, Cumming tells me. When he headed to LA to shoot Buddy and the now-cult comedy Romy and Micheles High School Reunion, it was off the back of his jackbooted, licentious performance as the sexually ambiguous Emcee in Sam Mendes gritty production of Cabaret, and of playing Hamlet at the Donmar (also under Mendes). I nearly had a breakdown, the 60-year-old says. They were huge successes  but also a disaster for him mentally. Not helping was Cummings breakup with Saffron Burrows, his co-star in the 1995 film Circle of Friends. I was really fragile, he says. So when he returned from Hollywood, theatre seemed too daunting. I was thinking, What will I do? Maybe Ill start writing a book. I felt floaty, and then I did the thing with Stanley...

Cumming is talking to me on Zoom from New York, where hes taking a break from shooting Tip Toe, a new Russell T Davies series set in Manchester. He is wearing a striped top like something from a mimes wardrobe, stroking his moustache throughout our conversation as if to check its still there. His grey hair swooshes back theatrically; circular glasses adorn his elfin features. A natural storyteller, he leans into anecdotes with vaudevillian relish.

I tell him GoldenEye was the first time I came across his work. In the 1995 Bond film, Pierce Brosnans first as 007, he played the villainous Boris Grishenko, a twitchy, pen-twiddling computer geek spouting lines like I am invincible! Cumming remembers struggling to spin the pen that was so integral to the plot. So then my friend Jason Isaacs, who used to do kids magic parties, showed me how to do it, he recalls. I got it and nailed it, and then they gave me the James Bond Parker pen. I had just been practising with a Biro, so I suddenly was f***ed.

Cumming has materialised on my laptop screen to discuss his inaugural season as artistic director of Pitlochry Festival Theatre, in the tiny Perthshire town 10 miles from where he was born. The venue celebrates its 75th anniversary next year, and Cummings 2026 lineup, finalised this week, is bold and eclectic  a programme that reflects his own indefatigable energy. My personality and my spirit are at the centre of it, says Cumming. So what Ive done is make a season around people who I have worked with and love or admire, or all three. The aim, he adds, is to have the theatre full of people who never come to the theatre. A something-for-everyone vibe.

open image in gallery Stealing the scene: Cummings tete-a-tete with Tom Cruise in Eyes Wide Shut ( Warner Bros )

Certainly, he delivers on the latter. From the Tony Award-winning musical Once  with its original Broadway creative team  to Scottish playwright Douglas Maxwells new romcom, Inexperience, and I Can Die Too, a Jean Cocteau-inspired concert play co-written by Cumming, Sally George and Frances Ruffelle, its a vibrant programme that doesnt condescend to people in terms of their taste. Intriguing, too, will be Maureen Beattie playing King Lear, and Cumming reuniting with Shirley Henderson  they first appeared together in the 1987 TV series Shadow of the Stone  for A History of Paper, a poignant love story by Oliver Emanuel, posthumously presented with songs by Gareth Williams. Elsewhere, Cumming directs Ill Be Seeing You, with Simon Russell Beale as a playwright writing about Liberace. Its brilliantly meta, says Cumming, who will also star next November as Henry Higgins in a new production of My Fair Lady.

Its happening, its here, its now. There is authoritarianism in America and Im terrified

Before all that, though, Ian McKellen, Graham Norton and Tales of the City author Armistead Maupin will descend on Pitlochry in January for what Cumming describes as a weekend of queer joy. Most notable will be McKellen starring in a new one-man play, Equinox, as well as Cumming somehow finding the time to interview Norton on stage and then lead a cast of six in Me and the Girls, a stage adaptation by Neil Bartlett of Noel Cowards 1964 short story. Not much normally happens in January in the theatre, says Cumming, so I thought, lets do a mini-festival then, and lets do one about queer people.

The festival, he continues, will also be a form of support and solidarity, at a time when LGBT people need it, with hate crimes on the rise, hostile comment pieces in the British press, and the Trump administration issuing a flurry of anti-trans executive orders.

open image in gallery Emcee glamour: Cumming as the delectable Master of Ceremonies with Jane Horrocks as Sally Bowles in Cabaret ( Mubi )

Tip Toe is all about this, says Cumming, who is bisexual. Its about the rage, and the radicalisation of certain people about various subjects, including anti-trans, anti-gay, anti-immigrants. All these things that are used by people as a smokescreen to gain power, to take attention away from the problems of our standard of living and our lack of a moral centre. Its a tactic, he believes, that is used when you dont really have any policies. Lets just blame people who are already marginalised. Its a slippery slope. Next, theyll be coming for the rest of us.

Were on the cusp of something really horrible, he insists. And in America, of course, its already started. Trans people have no actual rights. They dont exist, according to the Supreme Court. All these forms of decency, and caring, and support for you if you are different, have been ripped away in Trumps new regime. He references the case currently underway in the US  10 years after the Supreme Court gave same-sex couples equal marriage rights  in which the justices are being asked to rule that those rights can be ignored on religious grounds.

We know where this is going, he says. Soldiers in the streets, taking citizens away, people being disappeared. Its happening, its here, its now. Its not imminent. There is authoritarianism, and a government that has no concern for a vast majority of its citizens and will do anything it can to stay in power... Im terrified.

open image in gallery Cult classic: Janeane Garofalo and Cumming in Romy and Micheles High School Reunion (1997) ( Touchstone Pictures )

In July, Cumming guest-hosted Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and in his opening monologue, he tells me, he did a big rant about trans rights... People around me were like, Youre going to be deported. He worried about it the next time he left the country. Cumming has been a US citizen since 2008, and notes how frightened people are at the moment. Theyre scared for their physical safety. Theyre scared when they go to the airport that theyre going to be held... I mean, those are real fears and I feel them too. But luckily, I have another home, I have another passport, another country, and another life there.

That safe haven, Cumming believes, is also under threat, and we should be standing up to the rhetoric of Farage, and reminding people that this refugee problem is the way it is because we dont have a deal with Europe, because he brought us out. He thinks we should also be asking our government to stop trying to pander to the sort of moral lack that Farage represents. He elaborates: Ive always thought this about Keir Starmer, [that] he just needs to be more of a leader, stop just trying not to get caught out all the time. Its terrible the way that all these flags are now appearing behind him... just trying to sort of ape the aesthetics and messaging of Reform. Dont do that. Have some f***ing balls and say that you stand up for decency, and you have a moral core that means youre not going to let the most marginalised people in society be trampled on yet again.

He recalls a point that he made on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg before the election  I said, Labour is just kind of Conservative-lite now, but [since then] its becoming sort of Reform lemonade.

I mention how Twitter/X amplifies hate speech. Cumming, who once told Harry Potter producers to f*** off during negotiations for the role of Prof Gilderoy Lockhart (eventually played by Kenneth Branagh), has opinions on the views pushed by JK Rowling about trans people. I thought feminism was about equality, he says. Women being equal with everyone else in society. And yet it appears...

He focuses his thoughts. Ive kind of moved away from being obsessed with the horror of things that have come out of that quarter, of trans rights being perceived as anti-womens rights. But theres several things that stick out to me  and I dont want to get into a battle at all with her, because I feel that the best way to deal with her is to give her less attention.

But there was a thing, he continues, where she very kindly gave money to open a rape crisis centre in Edinburgh  a great thing to do. I mean, bravo. But then she said that trans women were not allowed... Thats transphobia. At the worst and the most awful time a person could experience, youre saying, No, Im not going to help you, because you are trans. I just feel like we have to call it what it is.

open image in gallery Marvel to behold: Cumming as Nightcrawler in X2: X-Men United ( 20 Century Fox/Disney )

We return to theatre  specifically, to the cornucopia of celebrity-led productions increasingly dominating West End billboards, showcasing stars from Nicole Scherzinger to Sigourney Weaver. Some argue that these A-lister-led vehicles have stopped theatres from taking risks with unknown casts. Stunt casting is a tale as old as time, Cumming says. I always think that if people say, Oh, isnt it terrible using all these pop stars?, if they cant do it [on stage], then people are not stupid. The novelty of seeing a pop star, or whatever, goes pretty fast if theyre s***.

Speaking to Cumming, you realise theres no protective carapace; hes genuine, open. Not that Im surprised. With unblinking candour, his autobiography, 2014s bestselling Not My Fathers Son, detailed the sadistic abuse he and his older brother suffered at the hands of their father while growing up on a country estate in Angus, Scotland. A second memoir, 2021s Baggage: Tales from a Fully Packed Life, also reflected on its lasting impact while recounting a whole lot of hedonism. No one ever fully recovers from their past, he wrote.

How does he feel now? I have therapy all the time, Cumming says. Still I talk about it a lot. I have to. I have to remember that every experience I have is infused with what happened in my childhood. Even though Im a happy person, I have to understand that I will always have that there with me. Ive always got to monitor it and make sure its not taking over my thoughts. I think any abuse victim would tell you the same thing. Part of the reason he wrote Baggage, he adds, was to challenge the American perception that Alans recovered, everythings tied up with a bow. A happy ending.

open image in gallery High camp: Cumming in his element as host of The Traitors US ( Peacock )

Cumming, who has been married to artist Grant Shaffer since 2012, splits his time between Scotland and the US, where hes built an extensive film and TV career since those late-Nineties wobbles. Unsurprisingly, theres not one role for which he gets recognised the most. Yes, there are the obvious big hitters  Spy Kids, X2: X-Men United, and The Good Wife, the last of which earned him three Emmy nominations. And not to forget, his unlikely post-Kubrick assignment, on which he had an absolute blast  the nudge-nudge-wink-wink romp Spice World: The Movie, starring the Spice Girls at the height of Girl Power.

But theres also The Traitors US, which Cumming presents with a shade more flamboyance than his UK counterpart, Claudia Winkleman. What is silly is that the American version of the show is much camper and more theatrical than the British version, he says. Thats surely a first, as American versions of things tend to be dumbed down or lose their camp. A possibility dawns on him. I think thats because of me.

The Pitlochry Festival Theatre 2026 Season runs 16 January - 31 December 2026. For further information visit here
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Two Baltic cities have been named the cheapest places to visit for Christmas market breaks on a budget this year.

The Post Office's annual Christmas Market Barometer has revealed that British holidaymakers seeking an affordable Christmas market break this year should look no further than the cities of Vilnius and Riga.

Both cities are cheaper for a two-night weekend break than last years most budget-friendly destination, Slovakias capital Bratislava, which has seen prices rise by over 11 per cent in 2025.

The league table was calculated by combining the costs of return flights, two nights in three or four-star accommodation, airport transfers, two evening meals with wine, coffee, festive drinks and most importantly, Christmas market snacks.

A break in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius costs a total of 509, which is marginally lower (-0.4 per cent) than last year.

Vilniuss Christmas market will open on 29 November and will run until 28 December. Alongside its usual traditional Christmas market, the Design Square will open in Vinco Kudirkos Square, showcasing over 40 local designers to promote original art and sustainable shopping.

The citys festivities also extend to an ice rink set up in the Town Hall Square.

Vilnius is also famous for its Cathedral Square Christmas tree, known for its creative design. Last year, it was transformed into a glittering bauble, surrounded by dazzling, golden arcs.

A break to Vilnius is also more than eight per cent cheaper than runner-up Riga, the capital of Latvia, which will set you back 555 for a two-day stint.

The top five cheapest places for a European Christmas market break, according to the Post Office

Items Vilnius, Lithuania Riga, Latvia Bratislava, Slovakia Gdansk, Poland Warsaw, Poland Four cups of coffee 8.33 11.49 10.42 14.08 13.20 Two three-course meals for two (including a bottle of wine) 137.81 132.89 152.64 135.93 205 Two return bus/train transfers from airport to city 3.59 7.18 3.95 5.28 3.17 Four glasses of gluhwein 17.96 14.37 10.77 14.96 17.60 Four pieces of gingerbread or stollen 14.37 12.57 14.37 17.60 22 Two-nights B&B and direct flights or Eurostar for two 327 377 376 398 328 Total costs 509.06 555.50 568.15 585.85 588.97

However, prices for meals, drinks and airport transfers are lower in Riga (178) than in Vilnius (182).

Rigas Christmas market starts on 28 November, running until 4 January 2026. Festive holidaymakers will find a traditional market accompanied by live music, including choirs on Saturdays and folk music on Sundays.

Visitors can sample traditional Latvian cuisine at the many food stalls, while unique gifts and handcrafted goods can be purchased from local artisans.

Other cities mentioned in the ranking include Polish cities such as Gdansk and Warsaw.

At the other end of the spectrum, the most expensive Christmas market destination was found to be Copenhagen, with an estimated two-night break of 1,056.

Meals and drinks in the Scandinavian city average 385  double the price of the four cheapest cities.

Vienna, Prague, Tallinn and Lille were also among the most expensive.

The top five most expensive places for a European Christmas market break, according to the Post Office

Items Lille, France Tallinn, Estonia Prague, Czech Republic Vienna, Austria Copenhagen, Denmark Four cups of coffee 12.57 12.57 10.14 23.35 17.45 Two three-course meals for two (including a bottle of wine) 159.47 224.84 151.25 240.64 305.30 Two return bus/train tickets from airport to city 6.46 7.18 6.24 16.52 17.94 Four glasses of gluwein 14.37 19.75 14.81 21.55 27.41 Four pieces of gingerbread or stollen 17.96 14.37 14.81 23.35 17.45 Two-nights B&B and direct flights or Eurostar for two 585 563 704 601 671 Total costs 795.83 841.71 901.25 926.41 1,056.55

The Post Office said Prague had fallen victim to its lack of three-star hotel accommodation and less flight capacity, meaning it is now in 13th place compared to fifth last year.

Laura Plunkett, head of Travel Money at the Post Office, said it is important for those considering booking a Christmas market break to consider sterlings dip in value.

The pounds fall against the euro is smaller than against other European currencies  five per cent compared with 10.6 per cent against the Hungarian forint and 10.9 per cent against the Swedish kronor.

The cost of flights and accommodation will also have a significant impact on overall costs so it is doubly important for holidaymakers planning a trip to do their homework to factor in how sterlings value, flight and hotel capacity, and meal costs will affect overall costs.

The average price of a European Christmas market break, 2025

Vilnius, Lithuania: 509.06 Riga, Latvia: 555.50 Bratislava, Slovakia: 568.15 Gdansk, Poland: 585.85 Warsaw, Poland: 588.97 Budapest, Hungary: 664.33 Krakow, Poland: 674.17 Berlin, Germany: 691.85 Stockholm, Sweden: 717.23 Zagreb, Croatia: 756.54 Lille, France: 795.83 Tallinn, Estonia: 841.71 Prague, Czech Republic: 901.25 Vienna, Austria: 926.41 Copenhagen, Denmark: 1,056.55

According to the Post Office Christmas Market Barometer

Read more: The 10 best European Christmas markets for a magical winter break (and where to stay)
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Pretty Little Liars star Shay Mitchells new skincare range for kids as young as four years old includes 6 hydrogel masks in two versions  hydrating with Vitamin B12 and after-sun with aloe vera.

The latter is described on her brand Rinis website as a green shimmery, two-piece jelly mask designed to fit growing faces (ages 4+) to help skin recover from sun, environmental, and post-play stress. There is also the Everyday Facial Sheet Mask with vitamin E in cute panda, puppy, and unicorn designs (5).

Since she lauched her Korean-made brand on Instagram at the weekend, Mitchell, 38, who also has a popular luggage brand Beis, has received fierce criticism from people on social media who are outraged that shes encouraging young children barely out of nappies to focus on their appearance, calling it dystopian and depressing, and accusing the brand of blurring the lines between care and consumerism.

Rinis mission, however, sounds very different: Its to nurture health habits and spark confidence in a world where skincare meets play.

The brand was inspired by Mitchells two mini-me children, Atlas, six, and Rome, three, wanting to do what mummy does with face masks, as well as their curiosity, and all the little moments that made her realise how early it starts.

Rini isnt about beauty, its about self-care, Mitchell continued in a caption on her Instagram. [Its] About teaching our kids that taking care of themselves can be fun, gentle, and safe.

open image in gallery Shay Mitchells brand was inspired by her two daughters, Atlas, six, and Rome, three, wanting to copy her skincare regimes ( Getty )

Using face masks might seem like harmless fun, but its one step away from your child turning into a full-blown Sephora kid  which has become shorthand for children who use high-end beauty products. The current trend of young children, tweens, and teens obsessed with skincare is in full swing among my childrens primary school friends in west London  even in the reception class of five-year-olds.

Beauty-themed birthdays have become so regular on my childrens party circuit that I squirm every time I hear the ping of the class WhatsApp in case its yet another one. Presents can only be Labubus, or, far worse, the dreaded Sephora gift voucher. I was even bamboozled into allowing my daughter Liberty, seven, to have her last birthday party at Claires, a big mistake in which she and her friends had a makeover and walked the runway, while carrying horrid handbags around the store that had been opened an hour early for the event. Luckily, it wasnt a big party, so there werent too many children there being groomed into being little adults, which saved me a fortune on beauty and accessory goodie bags.

open image in gallery The Rini After-Sun Hydrogel Facial mask costs 6 ( Rini )

It was my own fault for agreeing to it, and something I will never again repeat. Im sticking to old-fashioned fun. A noisy, large-scale soft play, a chaotic swimming pool trip or a jaunt to the local stables. Anything is better than these increasingly popular makeover parties, which have become a conveyor belt of mini-me sleepover spa parties. A mum recently organised one with a mobile beautician and sent us all photos of the girls, including my daughter Lola, nine, in matchy-matchy pink towelling robes, while having pedicures with face masks on. Liberty even once asked me if we could buy her friend Charlotte Tilburys makeup.

Im putting my foot down before its too late. Childhood should be about make-believe, not make-up. Ive banned my kids from watching any more GRWM (Get Ready with Me) videos, which included one starring Kylie Jenner and her seven-year-old daughter Stormi in their first mother-daughter makeup tutorial in July. It is depressing that children as young as seven are now sharing their multi-step skincare routines. There is something deeply wrong when girls are focusing on antiageing before reaching puberty, on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.

When I was four, I was playing with teddies, not face masks. By seven or eight, I was into Blue Peter, not beauty products, and even at age 10, I was not getting my nails painted as a treat with my mum at the nail salon. I was climbing trees in Richmond Park and playing Monopoly.

Beauty-themed birthdays have become so regular on my Gen Alpha party circuit that I squirm every time I hear the ping of the class WhatsApp in case its yet another one

Children aged four do not need to worry about wrinkles  and sit around with a panda face mask on, when their time is better spent reading and doing creative play. Yet Rini joins a growing trend of skincare lines for Gen Alpha (those under-15), including Evereden, Pour Tous, Sincerely Yours, and Bubble. And of course its big business. It feeds into a beauty-industrial complex that has been stalking womens insecurities for years. Millions are made by peddling products, services and images that promise to boost our self-worth. Starting girls young on these apparent self-care routines guarantees a lifetime supply of customers craving unattainable beauty standards, which will ultimately boost the bottom line for corporations and manufacturers.

But a backlash is gently building. California introduced a bill to prohibit the sale of over-the-counter anti-ageing products with ingredients like retinol and alpha hydroxy acids to minors under 18, amid concerns that children as young as eight are using these products, marketed for adult skin, despite risks like irritation, rashes, and long-term damage.

But its the damage it is doing to young minds that is really concerning. Gen Alphas early exposure to social media means they are under pressure to present a perfect, curated image of themselves online. The need to achieve flawless skin, as seen in filtered or airbrushed social media images, can have profound psychological effects on self-esteem when girls don't meet these idealised standards. A Dove report found that one in two girls aged 10-14 say they feel pressure to look perfect online and one in three girls in this age group feel they are not beautiful enough to post a picture without editing. In the Dove Self-Esteem project report, 90 per cent of girls now say they follow at least one social media account that makes them feel less beautiful.

Many report that they learned these expectations directly from beauty brands and influencers marketing perfect skin, which creates the perfect beauty doom loop for our children to purchase expensive and unnecessary products (or beg their parents to buy them).

open image in gallery Rini founders, Mitchell (right) and Esther Song with their kids ( Rini )

A belief has been created among under-15s that normal features are problems that need fixing. Skin texture needs treatment, dark circles are unacceptable; the new trend for glass skin is the expected standard.

Dr Emma Wedgeworth, a consultant dermatologist and member of the British Cosmetic Dermatology Group, tells me that while there is nothing in the Rini facemasks that would likely damage a childs skin barrier, its not adding to their skin health in any way, either. Face masks are completely unnecessary for a four-year-old, and its worrying that brands are targeting this age group, she says. Its opening the door to a whole skincare routine for children at a time that is, she says, completely inappropriate.

As adults, we need to be making the decisions for our childrens skin, she continues. Our skin health isnt role play.

open image in gallery Children should be playing make-believe, not with make-up ( Getty/iStock )

She strongly advises against putting any unnecessary ingredients on childrens skin. Childrens skin has a very sensitive immune system, which is still developing and regulating. They are also more likely to absorb ingredients than adults due to a larger surface area and volume ratio. By introducing unnecessary ingredients, there is concern that you could sensitise the skin, leading to later allergies and reactive skin.

Mitchell might sell her kids-friendly skincare range in the name of self-care, but I believe real care is giving them a childhood free from Gen Alpha beauty products. Our children have got the rest of their lives to feel insecure about their looks  and spending all their hard-earned cash on retinol creams and injectable peptide treatments.

We need to give them  and their skin  a break.
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A mother will go on trial for murder after her 11-year-old daughter starved to death.

Connecticut girl Jacqueline Mimi Torres-Garcia was not given food in the two weeks leading up to her death in 2024 and was often restrained with zip ties, according to police.

Her remains were found in October inside a plastic bin, but authorities believe that she died at least a year earlier.

In a sickening cover-up, another child impersonated Jacqueline during a video call with child welfare services a few months after her death, court records reveal.

The chief medical examiner's office last week issued an official determination that Jacqueline died of fatal child abuse with starvation.

No child should ever have to endure such suffering, said Paul Melanson, public safety director in Hartford suburb of Farmington. He added that Jacquelines death has been difficult to comprehend and has taken an emotional toll on investigators.

open image in gallery A memorial for Jacqueline Torres-Garcia ( CTInsider )

On Friday, Jacqueline's mother, Karla Garcia, 29, and two others arrested in the case made brief appearances in Torrington Superior Court. Garcia's lawyer entered not guilty pleas on her behalf to charges including murder and cruelty to a child.

Garcia's ex-boyfriend, Jonatan Nanita, 30, did not enter pleas to similar charges, including murder.

Garcia's sister, Jackelyn Garcia, who is not charged with murder, pleaded not guilty to cruelty to a child and other charges.

The defendants' cases were continued to December.

Lawyers for all three defendants, who remain detained on bail, declined to respond directly to the charges against their clients after the court hearings.

Obviously the allegations are horrific and what happened to this child is horrific, said Ioannis Kaloidis, a lawyer for Jackelyn Garcia. What my client's culpability is has yet to be determined.

open image in gallery Jonatan Nanita, the boyfriend of Karla Garcia, at a Friday court hearing ( CTInsider )

Body found in bin

The girl's body was found October 8 in a plastic bin that had been dumped at an abandoned house in New Britain, about 12 miles (19 kilometers) southwest of Hartford.

Police believe Jacqueline died more than a year earlier, in September 2024, when she lived with her mother and siblings in nearby Farmington.

In arrest warrants, police said Karla Garcia admitted that she and Nanita stopped giving the girl food two weeks before her death, and that she, Nanita and Jackelyn Garcia all mistreated her including using zip ties as restraints.

Karla Garcia has three children with Nanita and two others, including Jacqueline, with another man. Police allege Nanita dumped the bin containing Jacqueline's body at the abandoned home in October.

According to police, Karla Garcia told investigators that her daughter was bad, she didnt listen, she didnt respect them. She also said during police interviews that Jacqueline was doing things she wasn't supposed to, including hitting other children, going into people's cars and having five boyfriends, an arrest warrant says.

open image in gallery Jackelyn Garcia, Jacqueline Torres-Garcia's aunt ( CTInsider )

Police said Garcia initially told them she believed Jacqueline died after Nanita stomped on her head, after the girl pushed her mother down some stairs. But she confessed to the neglect and abuse after investigators told her the autopsy found no signs of physical injuries, the warrant says.

Authorities said Karla Garcia kept her daughters remains in her home and took them with her when she moved back to New Britain earlier this year. In the summer of 2024, she had removed the girl from the local school system, telling officials her daughter would be educated at home. When people asked where the girl was, she told them she was staying with a friend or other relatives, police said.

In January of this year, the Department of Children and Families responded to a report of possible child mistreatment in the Garcia home involving Jacqueline's sister, the agency said. A video call was set up, and officials talked to a girl whom Karla Garcia claimed was Jacqueline, but police said it actually was another girl, possibly a daughter of one of Karla Garcia's friends.

The department said it is reviewing its dealings with the family. Officials said the agency had prior contacts with the family, with the last one coming in 2022 when it determined the children were safe.

State lawmakers, including both Democrats and Republicans, are questioning the department's actions. Concerns also have been raised about whether the states homeschooling laws need more child monitoring requirements.

The Department of Children and Families and homeschooling laws also drew scrutiny earlier this year after a man rescued from a house fire in Waterbury told police he had been held captive in the home for the past 20 years since he was about 11 years old. He, too, had been removed from public schools to be homeschooled, officials said.
It is worth shopping around  some retailers already voluntarily offer plans with windows of free electricity. Many of the tips on electrification and time-shifting can also be used by households wanting to make the most of their own rooftop solar. Why is this happening? The policy helps households with the cost of living, while also improving the stability of the grid, which is straining under mismatched supply and demand. There is plentiful solar supply in the middle of the day when no one wants it, and none in the evening when they do. This demand curve is sometimes called the solar duck because of its shape. There is so much solar power during the day that it is increasingly being switched off, the government says, with the Australian Energy Market Operator recording negative prices nearly a fifth of the time in the most recent quarter. The policy aims to ensure this excess of cheap solar power is not wasted.

The potential savings By squeezing every kilowatt of power out of three hours of free electricity, households could save almost $6000 a year, according to Saul Griffith, founder of Rewiring Australia. He says the average Australian home has a connection to the grid that can draw down 15kW an hour (45kWh over three hours). At an average of 36c/kWh, that is worth $16.20 a day ($5913 a year)  as long as you can suck it all down in the time window using batteries and timers. The potential $6000 value can be offset against a smaller electricity bill, no gas bill and no fuel purchases for a car. Households will need to select the solar sharer offer tariff from an electricity retailer and ensure they have a smart meter. They dont need to have solar themselves, so renters can also benefit.

Home batteries The solar sharer policy works with the federal governments incentive to encourage the purchase of a battery alongside rooftop solar. As of June 30, 271,000 households had installed solar batteries, the Clean Energy Council says. Since the Cheaper Home Batteries program started on July 1, that has swollen by another 120,000. Technically, non-solar households could also use home batteries to store free daytime electricity from the grid. However, there is no subsidy, and electricity prices may change before the purchase pays off. EV charging

Running an EV on free electricity is far cheaper than buying petrol or diesel. The catch is that the car needs to be parked at home during the day. The average Australian drives 38 kilometres a day, the EV Council says. That means they can either choose to charge for one to two hours each day, or go for a week or more between larger recharging sessions. Loading Even renters can do it because it is possible to charge an EV via a standard 240V wall socket  it is just slow. Also known as a level-1 charger, this will add one to four kilometres of range for every 10 minutes of charging, the EV Council says, meaning it would take from four to 17 hours to add 100 kilometres of range. A dedicated level-2 EV charger will add four to 12 kilometres every 10 minutes  or between one and four hours to add 100 kilometres of range.

Ultra-rapid public chargers can add up to 300 kilometres of range in just 10 minutes. Griffith says policies should be extended to ensure free charging is available during the day at workplaces and curbside street chargers. Electric vehicles are essentially batteries on wheels. New policies to support vehicle-to-grid charging mean EVs can both charge from and discharge to the grid or directly power the home or specific appliances. While EVs are not subsidised, they are better value than home batteries by cost per kilowatt hour of storage. Shifting usage Modern smart appliances come with in-built timers, while basic models can be used with a circuit timer  a small device that can be bought in a hardware store for less than $10.

The easiest thing to time shift is the hot water system. The economics stack up, Griffith says, to replace a gas-powered system with an efficient heat pump machine immediately, despite the high upfront price. Free electricity will unlock savings of $1-1.50 a day, shrinking the payback period to a year or two. Next is the power-guzzling pool pump. For homes with swimming pools, using a timer to soak up free electricity is a clear win. It takes effort to change habits around washing dishes and clothing, but there is a pay-off for those who can do it. Shifting heating and cooling to the middle of the day will also work, but only if you have a well-insulated home.
It was innocuous at first; he would arrive her work unannounced with a bunch of flowers. But slowly, he grew increasingly controlling, then emotionally and financially abusive and physically violent.

But over the next four years, the relationship Walker thought was her fairytale ending unravelled.

Radiographer Miranda Northey prepares Stacey Walker for an MRI at the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine. Credit: Jason South

He just seemed like he was everything I had ever wanted in a man, Walker recalls.

The 35-year-old says he was tall, dark and handsome, disarming any fears she had about online dating with his warmth, charisma and consistency.

When Stacey Walker swiped on her ex-partners profile on a dating app, he seemed different from men who were quick to inundate her with sexual advances.

Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time.

A team of experts at the institute will soon begin using a dedicated, state government-funded MRI scanner to help police investigate internal injuries to gather forensic evidence for non-fatal strangulation victims like Walker.

In a world first, the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine in Melbourne is hoping to change this.

Experts warn, however, securing criminal convictions for non-fatal strangulation cases still face profound challenges due to a lack of forensic evidence.

The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons as he is facing a spate of other criminal charges, was sentenced to 50 days in jail.

This year, he was among the first perpetrators in Victoria to be convicted and jailed under the states landmark non-fatal strangulation laws, which came into effect last year, making it a criminal offence to intentionally choke or strangle a person.

During one violent attack, he strangled the mother-of-one unconscious. She woke up in bed to find him towering over her and screaming in her face not to tell anyone.

An MRI machine can provide detailed three-dimensional images of soft tissue inside the neck and reveal hidden internal trauma such as bruising, swelling to fat and deep muscles, and small fractures in bones including to those linked to the airways.

Instead of just looking on the skin, we actually want to look inside the body.

Instead of just looking on the skin, we actually want to look inside the body.

There may be some minor bruising or some finger marks  so it can be very hard to corroborate that the event has occurred, ODonnell says.

Unlike other violent assaults, non-fatal strangulation and choking often leaves little external evidence.

Globally renowned forensic radiologist Dr Chris ODonnell says the MRI technology could uncover crucial and subtle trauma that could lead to a surge of criminal convictions in courtrooms.

One study found the likelihood of homicide leapt by 800 per cent if a victims partner or former partner attempted to strangle them.

Mounting research suggests a person who survives non-fatal strangulation by a current or former partner is seven times more likely to be seriously injured or murdered by that person.

This masthead can reveal that since the non-fatal strangulation law came into effect last October , 172 criminal charges of the new offences have been finalised and perpetrators sentenced in magistrates courts up to August. One charge of non-fatal strangulation was also finalised in the Childrens Court.

This technology is right at the cutting edge, ODonnell says. Theres a lot of interest in trying to prosecute in this space, and if youre going to prosecute you have to have good evidence.

Forensic radiologist Dr Chris ODonnell says the MRI technology has the potential to uncover crucial and subtle trauma that could lead to criminal convictions under the non-fatal strangulation laws. Credit: Jason South

These types of injuries are often not picked up during routine clinical examinations in emergency departments or in CT scans, which are generally used in hospitals where staff are focused on detecting life-threatening injuries like major brain bleeds or splits in blood vessels following strangulation or choking.

When Walker asked where he had been, he grabbed her neck and threw her across their bedroom.

About a year into the relationship, he came home after midnight and stormed into the house they shared.

He would call me all the time. He would show up to my work with flowers. Like any other brand-new romance, it was full of I love yous very quickly, and a lot of time spent with each other.

As soon as we met, he wanted to be all in, which is my nature too, but in hindsight he absolutely love-bombed me, Walker says, referring to a manipulative tactic in which someone floods a potential partner with excessive attention, flattery and grand gestures to gain control.

Walker had found herself recently single in the midst of a coronavirus pandemic after more than decade-long marriage. She was apprehensive, having not dated in years, and spoke to a man for months online and via FaceTime before meeting him in person.

He was six foot five and 130 kilos, so he was a big, big guy, and I smashed my shoulder onto the bed and then onto the ground, Walker says.

His daughter came in screaming and called an ambulance.

The man started wanting to see proof of Walkers location at all times, demanding she take photos of herself at her desk at work to prove she was there.

The physical violence worsened, too. She was convinced he would kill her one night when he choked her and then suffocated her with a pillow. Another time, he locked her in a hotel room and violently assaulted her over many hours.

I was just screaming ... I love you ... please stop doing this to me, Walker says, her voice cracking with emotion.

I could just picture myself in a coffin and my son walking down the aisle at my funeral.

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Victims of strangulation or choking can also be left with injuries to their larynx (voice box) or a group of muscles in the neck, known as strap muscles (named for their long, flat shape, resembling a strap).

ODonnell says while this soft tissue is vulnerable to bleeding through neck compression, damage to the muscles is often not picked up in clinical examinations at hospitals but can be detected by MRI imaging.

A game changer for strangulation laws

Victims of violent or sexual assaults can enter the institute discreetly through a back street behind the Victorian Coroners Court. Inside the building, there is an examination and change room and a scanning bed, with a patient intercom and imaging screen.

It is a Thursday afternoon in spring, and ODonnell is sitting at a desk next to the scanning room.

On the screen is an image of the inside of the neck of a victim of non-fatal strangulation. He explains that the white, shadowy markings on the image indicate where swelling and bleeding occurred when force was placed on the victims throat.

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In the room next door, there is a morgue, with stainless-steel table and bright theatre lights, where autopsies are undertaken for those who have died in violent or unexplained circumstances.

ODonnell also uses radiation-based computer tomography (CT) scans to determine how people die.

But for living patients like Walker, a separate bed is used for an MRI facility, and the ceiling projects a calming image of leafy trees and a blue sky scattered with clouds.

The institutes forensic physician, Dr Maaike Moller, undertakes medical examinations of about 600 victim/survivors of sexual assault in Victoria each year.

She also examines hundreds of others who have experienced other forms of interpersonal violence.

Forensic physician Dr Maaike Moller undertakes medical examinations of hundreds of victim-survivors of sexual and violent assaults in Victoria each year. Credit: Jason South

The victims welfare is at the heart of everything Moller does. If the victim has had their hair pulled during the assault she carefully examines their skull for subtle signs such as bleeding near hair follicles or scratches around their ears.

If they have been punched, kicked or bitten, she gathers and documents any forensic evidence she can to be used in court.

They might have blacked out or been left with a hoarse voice following the assault and the scan they would usually receive would be a CT scan at the hospital in the first instance, Moller says.

Like ODonnell, she believes the use of an MRI scanner will be a game changer for victims of choking or strangulation.

This MRI technology has potential to fill the gap between the hospital assessment and our forensic clinical assessment, she says.

Non-fatal strangulation can have serious health effects, including memory loss, paralysis, pregnancy miscarriage, and changes to vision, vocal cords, hearing and breathing.

Brain injury from repeated strangulation can also build up, like the impact of concussion among sportspeople. Symptoms, including stroke, could occur many months later.

This MRI technology has potential to fill the gap between the hospital assessment and our forensic clinical assessment. Forensic physician Dr Maaike Moller

ODonnell is hopeful that using the MRI to track cases of non-fatal strangulation will not only help increase criminal convictions, but also assist with research into the crime globally.

Melbourne is the first place in the world where a dedicated MRI machine will be used to track injuries from non-fatal strangulation, and most research to date has been undertaken in retrospective studies.

Theyre not a particularly rigorous scientific exploration, he says.

Were in a position to change this. We have the physicians, and we can take all the people who have experienced this and scan them so then we have a much better understanding of how frequent it is, and the more likely sites of injury.

A first offence of strangulation in Victoria carries a five-year maximum sentence and does not require proof of injury.

The second, more serious, offence carries a maximum sentence of 10 years behind bars, and applies to instances in which a perpetrator intentionally causes injury to the victim.

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The roll-out of the laws came as experts warned the practice of strangulation during sex had become so widespread that more than half of Australian young people had used it.

National data suggests 57 per cent of people aged 18 to 35 have been strangled during sex at least once.

Doctors and researchers warn that understanding of the dangers is so lacking that even those who consent to it are not aware of the grave risks, which include death within minutes and brain injury.

Earlier this year, Walkers former partner was charged with non-fatal strangulation, false imprisonment, threats to kill and other offences.

By the time he was sentenced, he had already served his 50 days and was able to walk free from court the day he was sentenced.

Walker is now pushing to change the laws to mandate increased jail time for perpetrators of non-fatal strangulation.

If he was sentenced to the maximum penalty of everything that he was charged with, he should have gotten 37 years, but he got 50 days, she says.

The sentence should reflect the lifelong damage it does to women.

Each night, when she closes her eyes to go to sleep, Walker still has visions of her abuser in black jeans, shirtless, running towards her with a belt in his hand.

I feel like I cant escape what he has done to me, she says.

She is speaking out to compel other victims of abuse to come forward.

I want people to know who I am and that I am not laying down, Walker says.

I want other women to know they can seek support and help. This is life or death. The numbers of women being killed in Australia are too much for us not to think like that.

Victorian Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny says non-fatal strangulation was rarely an isolated event and often revealed an ongoing and escalating pattern of coercive and controlling behaviour.

Our investment means we now have Australias first dedicated forensic MRI facility  detecting injuries missed by other scans and reducing the trauma that loved ones can go through with invasive coronial processes, she says.

A Victoria Police spokeswoman said police welcomed the enhanced forensic examination capability provided by the new MRI scanner.

All police receive extensive family violence training which includes how to accurately identity and respond to non-fatal strangulation, she said.

Police are here to listen and have dedicated family violence detectives who are committed to investigating these matters.

If you or anyone you know needs support, you can contact the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service on 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732), Lifeline 131 114, or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636
In this year-long investigation, we are lifting the lid on an open secret in Australias property market that is costing buyers millions.

Fresh action to tackle underquoting is under consideration as thousands of online complaints have flooded Victorias consumer watchdog, claiming agents are brazenly advertising homes below the expected sale price.

Almost 3500 online complaints were received by Consumer Affairs Victorias underquoting taskforce in the past two years, featuring hundreds of alleged examples of the illegal practice, data exclusively obtained by this masthead shows.

Shelley Lask is among the thousands of Victorians who have recently complained to Consumer Affairs about underquoting. Credit: Justin McManus

More than 1400 complaints claim agents knew how much the owner was willing to sell for, but persisted in advertising the property at a lower price.

Another 452 submissions allege that agents rejected an offer for being too low, but then continued to promote the home at a price below the declined offer.
Credit: Matt Golding

To submit a letter to The Age, email letters@theage.com.au. Please include your home address and telephone number. No attachments, please include your letter in the body of the email. See here for our rules and tips on getting your letter published.

Better ways than jail

Jailing 14-year-olds for lengthy periods is totally unproductive unless we also put similar resources into crime prevention. It costs about $2.15 million a year for each person jailed, and you have to add in the opportunity costs as the young person will not be able to contribute productively to society even if rehabilitated when they are still in jail. We also know that incarcerated youth are highly likely to reoffend.

The massive cost of youth violence and other criminal behaviour to our society and economy is the direct result of under-resourcing social services, government education and health services which, apparently, we cant afford.

We only need to look at Scotland as an example of how adequate resourcing of essential societal services can deliver much better outcomes for everyone.

Jennie Epstein, Little River

Make policy by evidence

The claim by Mirko Bagaric (Comment, 14/11) that there is no statistical difference in recidivism levels between similarly situated juveniles who are incarcerated and those who are not is false, and based on a study conducted over 20 years ago.

In reality, there is an overwhelming body of evidence that incarceration is not only linked to recidivism (reoffending) but is, in fact, a strong determinant of it.

In 2024, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reported that 85 per cent of 10-12 year olds given a custodial sentence received another sentence within 12 months of their release, opposed to 57 per cent of those given community-based supervision. This is backed by research from the Australian Institute of Criminology, among others. The University of Oxford similarly concluded from analysis of data from 33 countries that people given custodial sentences were more likely to reoffend that those given community sentences.

These arent fringe sources  they are well-respected, expert and independent research bodies, all pointing to the same thing  that time spent in prison directly correlates with future criminal activity. The evidence is clear. Public policy should be guided by it.
But public transport researchers worry that reducing the presence of PSOs in some train stations could jeopardise the safety of public transport users. It is a concern if they dont get this right and if we spread these resources too thin, said Professor Graham Currie, chair of public transport at Monash University. It would be better to see an expansion of their scale rather than using the existing resources. This has to be done well and has to be done carefully. Dr Rumana Sarker, who has led a new study at the university about womens safety on public transport, said her research showed passengers wanted a human presence, whether that be the police or a trained staff member.

Sarker said almost half the women surveyed in the study said experiencing harassment had influenced their travel behaviour. Of those surveyed, 68 per cent said they travelled less now than before they were harassed. Women felt the least safe on trams, where there were no PSOs. Loading They want somebody they can talk to in real time if something goes wrong, Sarker said. Our research showed having a PSO at a train station is what made women feel safest. The safety concerns were also echoed by Police Association of Victoria secretary Wayne Gatt, who also questioned whether police staff had been appropriately consulted about the raft of changes. In over 30 years of experience, theres one thing about crime that I have learned: If you put two PSOs or two police on a street corner, it is very unlikely that someone will commit a crime in front of them, Gatt said.

But Police Minister Anthony Carbines said the changes were about gaining flexibility to deploy PSOs where they need it most, not where theyve always been. Police will use CCTV footage in real time to make decisions about where staff are most needed. Our protective services officers are a crime reduction tool, but right now, theyre hamstrung by the past and glued to their seats, even if crime is occurring just down the street, he said. He said the changes were informed by police data that suggested crime in train stations largely occurred in the afternoon. Asked whether the drop in nighttime crime was a result of PSOs at the stations, Carbines acknowledged criminals often offend when they know fewer police are around, but insisted the changes were informed by intelligence. Lord Mayor Nick Reece, who had been pushing for the change, said Melbourne experienced a 20 per cent increase in crime in the past year, mostly in areas near train stations.

Having more PSOs on the streets, in retail precincts, around stations should be a game changer for the city with the four City Loop stations and five new Metro stations, Reece said. Loading The shopping centre patrols will form part of a $2.3 million 90-day operation due to launch before Christmas. They will be staffed on a voluntary basis and counted as overtime. The state government will also fund 842 new search wands at a cost of almost $1 million for officers to conduct weapons searches in designated areas. Currently, the force has between 40 and 50. Carbines said police would use their expanded powers to make the shopping centres designated search areas, and new legislation would not be required to enact the changes.

The Shopping Centre Council of Australia said the operation would help tackle an alarming rise in retail crime rates at one of the busiest times of the year. Council chief executive Angus Nardi said retailers had been grappling with an increasing number of offenders armed with machetes, knives, crowbars and cricket bats. Gang attacks had also become a worry. As part of the changes, Victoria Police will also recruit 200 police reservists to fill low-risk desk jobs, including administrative duties at police stations, to free up officers to go out on the beat. Bush said he was confident the force would find enough officers willing to volunteer to enact the plan, despite grappling with more than 1100 vacancies across its ranks. Theres a lot in it for them, I think theyll enjoy it. Theyll enjoy being part of the community. Theyll enjoy preventing crime and responding to calls, he said.

The changes are part of the second round of police reforms spearheaded by Bush, who last month announced he would create a new 24-hour crime control centre and trim the number of police executives. Gatt said the reservists idea had real potential, but the lack of details concerned him. How will you recruit them? Where will they be trained? And whos paying for this? Because Victoria Police is hundreds of millions of dollars above its operating budget today. So wheres this money coming from? Opposition police spokesperson David Southwick said it was wishful thinking to expect officers to volunteer for extra shifts in the lead-up to Christmas. We know weve got PSOs and police already exhausted babysitting protesters. The last thing that theyre going to want to do is go and do another job, Southwick said.
loanDepot, Inc. (NYSE:LDI  Get Free Report) CEO Anthony Li Hsieh sold 700,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $2.87, for a total transaction of $2,009,000.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 1,300,000 shares in the company, valued at $3,731,000. The trade was a 35.00% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this link.

Anthony Li Hsieh also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Tuesday, October 14th, Anthony Li Hsieh sold 1,300,000 shares of loanDepot stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $2.87, for a total transaction of $3,731,000.00.

On Monday, September 15th, Anthony Li Hsieh sold 1,350,000 shares of loanDepot stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $4.61, for a total transaction of $6,223,500.00.

On Friday, September 12th, Anthony Li Hsieh sold 1,300,000 shares of loanDepot stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $4.10, for a total transaction of $5,330,000.00.

On Tuesday, September 9th, Anthony Li Hsieh sold 2,043,712 shares of loanDepot stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $3.25, for a total transaction of $6,642,064.00.

On Friday, September 5th, Anthony Li Hsieh sold 3,046,005 shares of loanDepot stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $2.64, for a total value of $8,041,453.20.

On Thursday, September 4th, Anthony Li Hsieh sold 1,110,454 shares of loanDepot stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $2.17, for a total value of $2,409,685.18.

On Friday, August 29th, Anthony Li Hsieh sold 211,079 shares of loanDepot stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $2.10, for a total value of $443,265.90.

On Friday, August 29th, Anthony Li Hsieh sold 211,079 shares of loanDepot stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $2.10, for a total value of $443,265.90.

On Thursday, August 28th, Anthony Li Hsieh sold 250,000 shares of loanDepot stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $2.03, for a total value of $507,500.00.

On Thursday, August 28th, Anthony Li Hsieh sold 250,000 shares of loanDepot stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $2.03, for a total transaction of $507,500.00.

loanDepot Stock Down 3.2%

Shares of NYSE:LDI traded down $0.09 during trading on Friday, hitting $2.54. 5,153,910 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 3,665,767. The firms 50 day moving average price is $3.26 and its 200-day moving average price is $2.13. loanDepot, Inc. has a 12-month low of $1.01 and a 12-month high of $5.05. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.94, a current ratio of 1.19 and a quick ratio of 1.18. The stock has a market capitalization of $838.91 million, a P/E ratio of -7.04 and a beta of 3.45.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

loanDepot ( NYSE:LDI Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported ($0.02) EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($0.04) by $0.02. loanDepot had a negative net margin of 6.46% and a negative return on equity of 22.40%. The firm had revenue of $325.16 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $309.20 million. On average, research analysts predict that loanDepot, Inc. will post -0.23 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Several research analysts have commented on the company. UBS Group lifted their price target on loanDepot from $1.90 to $3.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, October 10th. BTIG Research reiterated a neutral rating on shares of loanDepot in a research note on Wednesday, September 10th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a sell (d-) rating on shares of loanDepot in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. The Goldman Sachs Group increased their target price on shares of loanDepot from $1.45 to $3.00 and gave the stock a sell rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded loanDepot from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Sunday, November 9th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, loanDepot currently has a consensus rating of Reduce and a consensus target price of $3.00.

Get Our Latest Analysis on loanDepot

Institutional Investors Weigh In On loanDepot

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Jones Financial Companies Lllp raised its position in loanDepot by 8,934.0% in the third quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 9,034 shares of the companys stock worth $28,000 after acquiring an additional 8,934 shares in the last quarter. Traynor Capital Management Inc. acquired a new position in loanDepot during the third quarter worth about $31,000. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC purchased a new position in loanDepot in the third quarter valued at about $31,000. CWM LLC acquired a new stake in shares of loanDepot during the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $32,000. Finally, Wilshire Advisors LLC boosted its stake in shares of loanDepot by 39.8% during the 1st quarter. Wilshire Advisors LLC now owns 27,727 shares of the companys stock worth $33,000 after acquiring an additional 7,899 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 39.39% of the companys stock.

loanDepot Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

loanDepot, Inc engages in originating, financing, selling, and servicing residential mortgage loans in the United States. The company offers conventional agency-conforming and prime jumbo, federal assistance residential mortgage, and home equity loans. It also provides settlement services, which include captive title and escrow business; real estate services that cover captive real estate referral business; and insurance services, including services to homeowners, as well as other consumer insurance policies.

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Pan American Silver (NYSE:PAAS  Get Free Report) (TSE:PAAS) posted its earnings results on Wednesday. The basic materials company reported $0.48 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.49 by ($0.01), Zacks reports. The business had revenue of $854.60 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $867.76 million. Pan American Silver had a net margin of 16.80% and a return on equity of 11.49%. The firms revenue was up 19.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.32 earnings per share.

Pan American Silver Stock Down 1.3%

PAAS traded down $0.52 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $38.53. The company had a trading volume of 6,310,619 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,095,116. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $37.15 and its 200 day moving average price is $31.39. Pan American Silver has a 52 week low of $19.80 and a 52 week high of $42.57. The company has a market capitalization of $16.26 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.57, a PEG ratio of 0.44 and a beta of 0.63. The company has a quick ratio of 2.11, a current ratio of 3.05 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15.

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Pan American Silver Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 5th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 24th will be given a dividend of $0.14 per share. This is a positive change from Pan American Silvers previous quarterly dividend of $0.12. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 24th. This represents a $0.56 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.5%. Pan American Silvers payout ratio is 33.10%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several brokerages recently issued reports on PAAS. Wall Street Zen upgraded Pan American Silver from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Saturday, November 1st. National Bank Financial upgraded shares of Pan American Silver to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Thursday, September 4th. CIBC upped their target price on Pan American Silver from $50.00 to $62.00 and gave the company an outperformer rating in a research report on Friday, October 10th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of Pan American Silver in a report on Tuesday. Finally, Zacks Research lowered shares of Pan American Silver from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 19th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have assigned a Buy rating and three have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Pan American Silver currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $41.25.

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on PAAS

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Pan American Silver

Institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Parallel Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in Pan American Silver by 151.8% during the third quarter. Parallel Advisors LLC now owns 642 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $25,000 after acquiring an additional 387 shares during the period. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. raised its stake in shares of Pan American Silver by 53.6% during the 2nd quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. now owns 1,703 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $48,000 after purchasing an additional 594 shares during the period. NewEdge Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Pan American Silver by 25.8% in the 2nd quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 3,050 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $87,000 after buying an additional 625 shares during the last quarter. Entropy Technologies LP boosted its holdings in shares of Pan American Silver by 4.5% in the 3rd quarter. Entropy Technologies LP now owns 33,188 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $1,285,000 after buying an additional 1,442 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Vident Advisory LLC grew its position in Pan American Silver by 5.7% during the second quarter. Vident Advisory LLC now owns 39,642 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $1,126,000 after buying an additional 2,130 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 55.43% of the companys stock.

About Pan American Silver

(Get Free Report)

Pan American Silver Corp. engages in the exploration, mine development, extraction, processing, refining, and reclamation of silver, gold, zinc, lead, and copper mines in Canada, Mexico, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, Chile, and Brazil. The company was formerly known as Pan American Minerals Corp. and changed its name to Pan American Silver Corp.

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Singapore Telecommunications Ltd. (OTCMKTS:SGAPY  Get Free Report)s share price hit a new 52-week high on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $36.35 and last traded at $35.45, with a volume of 24467 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $35.29.

Singapore Telecommunications Trading Up 1.2%

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.39, a current ratio of 0.98 and a quick ratio of 0.94. The stocks 50 day moving average is $33.32 and its two-hundred day moving average is $31.74.

Singapore Telecommunications Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Singapore Telecommunications Limited, together with its subsidiaries, provides telecommunication services to consumers and small businesses in Singapore, Australia, China, and internationally. The company operates through Optus, Singtel Singapore, NCS, Digital InfraCo, and Corporate segments. The company provides mobile, equipment sales, fixed voice and data, satellite, ICT and managed services; mobile, fixed voice and data, pay television, content and digital services, ICT as well as equipment sales in Singapore; and provides differentiated and end-to-end technology services to clients through its Gov+, Enterprise, and Telco+ strategic business groups with its NEXT capabilities in digital, data, cloud and platforms, as well as offers applications, infrastructure, engineering and cyber.

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Sovereign Metals Limited (LON:SVML  Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week low during mid-day trading on Friday . The stock traded as low as GBX 26.20 and last traded at GBX 27.10, with a volume of 411112 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 28.20.

Sovereign Metals Stock Down 3.9%

The firm has a market capitalization of 175.32 million, a PE ratio of -4.09 and a beta of 0.94. The companys 50 day simple moving average is GBX 33.24 and its 200-day simple moving average is GBX 33.80. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35, a quick ratio of 9.86 and a current ratio of 7.67.

Sovereign Metals Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Sovereign Metals Limited, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the exploration, development, and appraisal of mineral resource projects in Malawi. Its flagship project is the Kasiya rutile deposit in Malawi. Sovereign Metals Limited was incorporated in 2006 and is headquartered in Perth, Australia.

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Several analysts have recently updated their ratings and price targets for Booz Allen Hamilton (NYSE: BAH):

11/13/2025  Booz Allen Hamilton had its hold (c-) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

10/27/2025  Booz Allen Hamilton had its price target lowered by analysts at UBS Group AG from $115.00 to $93.00. They now have a neutral rating on the stock.

10/27/2025  Booz Allen Hamilton had its price target lowered by analysts at The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. from $93.00 to $80.00. They now have a sell rating on the stock.

10/27/2025  Booz Allen Hamilton had its price target lowered by analysts at JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $122.00 to $90.00. They now have an underweight rating on the stock.

10/24/2025  Booz Allen Hamilton was given a new $106.00 price target on by analysts at Stifel Nicolaus.

10/24/2025  Booz Allen Hamilton was given a new $90.00 price target on by analysts at Truist Financial Corporation.

10/24/2025  Booz Allen Hamilton was downgraded by analysts at Bank of America Corporation from a buy rating to an underperform rating. They now have a $90.00 price target on the stock.

10/17/2025  Booz Allen Hamilton was downgraded by analysts at Cowen Inc from a buy rating to a hold rating.

10/17/2025  Booz Allen Hamilton had its hold rating reaffirmed by analysts at TD Cowen. They now have a $105.00 price target on the stock, down previously from $125.00.

10/14/2025  Booz Allen Hamilton was downgraded by analysts at Zacks Research from a hold rating to a strong sell rating.

10/8/2025  Booz Allen Hamilton had its hold (c) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

9/27/2025  Booz Allen Hamilton had its hold (c) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

Booz Allen Hamilton Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 2nd. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be issued a dividend of $0.55 per share. This represents a $2.20 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. Booz Allen Hamiltons dividend payout ratio is 33.59%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Booz Allen Hamilton news, CEO Horacio Rozanski bought 23,800 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, October 30th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $84.66 per share, for a total transaction of $2,014,908.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 687,745 shares of the companys stock, valued at $58,224,491.70. This represents a 3.58% increase in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. 0.91% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corporation provides management and technology consulting, analytics, engineering, digital solutions, mission operations, and cyber services to governments, corporations, and not-for-profit organizations in the United States and internationally. It focuses on artificial intelligence services comprising of machine learning, predictive modeling, automation and decision analytics, and quantum computing.

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Vise Technologies Inc. bought a new position in shares of Burlington Stores, Inc. (NYSE:BURL  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor bought 2,376 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $553,000.

Other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Cerity Partners LLC boosted its position in shares of Burlington Stores by 0.6% in the 1st quarter. Cerity Partners LLC now owns 15,025 shares of the companys stock worth $3,581,000 after buying an additional 83 shares in the last quarter. New York State Common Retirement Fund lifted its holdings in shares of Burlington Stores by 2.8% in the first quarter. New York State Common Retirement Fund now owns 36,907 shares of the companys stock valued at $8,796,000 after purchasing an additional 1,000 shares in the last quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. grew its position in shares of Burlington Stores by 16.6% in the first quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 259,106 shares of the companys stock valued at $61,753,000 after purchasing an additional 36,955 shares during the last quarter. Jennison Associates LLC grew its position in shares of Burlington Stores by 5.5% in the first quarter. Jennison Associates LLC now owns 521,713 shares of the companys stock valued at $124,340,000 after purchasing an additional 27,069 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Savoir Faire Capital Management L.P. increased its stake in shares of Burlington Stores by 51.7% during the 1st quarter. Savoir Faire Capital Management L.P. now owns 26,531 shares of the companys stock worth $6,323,000 after purchasing an additional 9,039 shares in the last quarter.

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Burlington Stores Stock Down 1.0%

BURL stock opened at $280.14 on Friday. Burlington Stores, Inc. has a 52-week low of $212.92 and a 52-week high of $309.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.40, a current ratio of 1.23 and a quick ratio of 0.55. The stock has a market capitalization of $17.66 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 33.07, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.12 and a beta of 1.74. The company has a 50-day moving average of $269.99 and a two-hundred day moving average of $261.71.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Burlington Stores ( NYSE:BURL Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, August 28th. The company reported $1.59 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.27 by $0.32. Burlington Stores had a net margin of 4.96% and a return on equity of 42.74%. The business had revenue of $2.70 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.64 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $1.24 earnings per share. Burlington Storess quarterly revenue was up 9.7% on a year-over-year basis. Burlington Stores has set its Q3 2025 guidance at 1.5-1.600 EPS. FY 2025 guidance at 9.190-9.590 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Burlington Stores, Inc. will post 7.93 EPS for the current year.

A number of equities analysts have recently weighed in on BURL shares. The Goldman Sachs Group cut their price target on Burlington Stores from $317.00 to $316.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, July 22nd. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c+) rating on shares of Burlington Stores in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their target price on shares of Burlington Stores from $280.00 to $338.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Monday, July 28th. Citigroup decreased their price target on shares of Burlington Stores from $358.00 to $351.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Finally, Evercore ISI boosted their price objective on shares of Burlington Stores from $310.00 to $370.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, August 29th. Fourteen equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Burlington Stores presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $344.14.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Burlington Stores

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Burlington Stores news, CAO Stephen Ferroni sold 1,123 shares of Burlington Stores stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $281.25, for a total transaction of $315,843.75. Following the sale, the chief accounting officer directly owned 2,389 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $671,906.25. The trade was a 31.98% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, CMO Jennifer Vecchio sold 419 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, November 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $274.48, for a total value of $115,007.12. Following the completion of the sale, the chief marketing officer directly owned 63,751 shares in the company, valued at approximately $17,498,374.48. This represents a 0.65% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. In the last 90 days, insiders sold 1,626 shares of company stock valued at $452,804. Corporate insiders own 1.10% of the companys stock.

Burlington Stores Profile

(Free Report)

Burlington Stores, Inc operates as a retailer of branded merchandise in the United States. The company provides fashion-focused merchandise, including women's ready-to-wear apparel, menswear, youth apparel, footwear, accessories, toys, gifts, and coats, as well as baby, home, and beauty products.

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3i Group (LON:III  Get Free Report) announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday. The company reported GBX 340.20 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, Digital Look Earnings reports. 3i Group had a return on equity of 19.97% and a net margin of 96.45%.

3i Group Stock Down 1.3%

LON:III traded down GBX 42.72 during midday trading on Friday, hitting GBX 3,317.28. 550,380,313 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 7,790,422. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of GBX 4,144.45 and a 200 day simple moving average of GBX 4,129.08. 3i Group has a fifty-two week low of GBX 330.40 and a fifty-two week high of GBX 4,497. The company has a current ratio of 3.25, a quick ratio of 0.09 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.20. The company has a market capitalization of 32.69 billion, a PE ratio of 6.37, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of -0.35 and a beta of 1.01.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

III has been the subject of a number of recent research reports. UBS Group reiterated a buy rating and issued a GBX 4,700 price target on shares of 3i Group in a research note on Friday, November 7th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. restated an overweight rating on shares of 3i Group in a report on Friday, July 25th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered their target price on shares of 3i Group from GBX 4,600 to GBX 4,300 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Thursday. Finally, Citigroup restated a buy rating and issued a GBX 4,800 price target on shares of 3i Group in a research note on Friday. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus target price of GBX 4,600.

Insider Buying and Selling at 3i Group

In other news, insider Simon Borrows bought 30,000 shares of 3i Group stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 13th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of GBX 3,367 per share, with a total value of 1,010,100. Also, insider Peter McKellar purchased 4,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 14th. The shares were purchased at an average price of GBX 3,345 per share, for a total transaction of 133,800. Insiders acquired 34,007 shares of company stock valued at $114,419,647 in the last 90 days. 2.14% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

3i Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

3i is an investment company specialising in Private Equity and Infrastructure. We invest in mid-market companies headquartered in Europe and North America.

We generate attractive returns for our shareholders and co-investors by investing in private equity and infrastructure assets.

As proprietary capital investors we have a long-term, responsible approach.

We aim to compound value through thoughtful origination, disciplined investment and active management of our assets, driving sustainable growth in our investment companies.

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American Airlines Group, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Joby Aviation, Southwest Airlines, Alaska Air Group, and Air Lease are the seven Airline stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Airline stocks are shares of publicly traded companies that operate passenger and/or cargo air transportation services, representing an ownership stake in those airline businesses. For investors, airline stocks tend to be cyclical and relatively volatile, with performance strongly influenced by fuel prices, travel demand, economic conditions, regulation, labor costs and capacity management. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Airline stocks within the last several days.

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American Airlines Group (AAL)

American Airlines Group Inc., through its subsidiaries, operates as a network air carrier. The company provides scheduled air transportation services for passengers and cargo through its hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Washington, D.C., as well as through partner gateways in London, Doha, Madrid, Seattle/Tacoma, Sydney, and Tokyo.

United Airlines (UAL)

United Airlines Holdings, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides air transportation services in North America, Asia, Europe, Africa, the Pacific, the Middle East, and Latin America. The company transports people and cargo through its mainline and regional fleets. It also offers catering, ground handling, flight academy, and maintenance services for third parties.

Read Our Latest Research Report on UAL

Delta Air Lines (DAL)

Delta Air Lines, Inc. provides scheduled air transportation for passengers and cargo in the United States and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Airline and Refinery. Its domestic network centered on core hubs in Atlanta, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Detroit, and Salt Lake City, as well as coastal hub positions in Boston, Los Angeles, New York-LaGuardia, New York-JFK, and Seattle; and international network centered on hubs and market presence in Amsterdam, Bogota, Lima, Mexico City, London-Heathrow, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Sao Paulo, Seoul-Incheon, and Tokyo.

Read Our Latest Research Report on DAL

Joby Aviation (JOBY)

Joby Aviation, Inc., a vertically integrated air mobility company, engages in building an electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft optimized to deliver air transportation as a service. The company intends to build an aerial ridesharing service, as well as developing an application-based platform that will enable consumers to book rides.

Read Our Latest Research Report on JOBY

Southwest Airlines (LUV)

Southwest Airlines Co. operates as a passenger airline company that provides scheduled air transportation services in the United States and near-international markets. As of December 31, 2023, the company operated a total fleet of 817 Boeing 737 aircraft; and served 121 destinations in 42 states, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as well as ten near-international countries, including Mexico, Jamaica, the Bahamas, Aruba, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Belize, Cuba, the Cayman Islands, and Turks and Caicos.

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Alaska Air Group (ALK)

Alaska Air Group, Inc., through its subsidiaries, operates airlines. It operates through three segments: Mainline, Regional, and Horizon. The company offers scheduled air transportation services on Boeing jet aircraft for passengers and cargo in the United States, and in parts of Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Belize, Guatemala, and the Bahamas; and for passengers across a shorter distance network within the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

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Air Lease (AL)

Air Lease Corporation, an aircraft leasing company, engages in the purchase and leasing of commercial jet aircraft to airlines worldwide. It sells aircraft from its fleet to third parties, including other leasing companies, financial services companies, airlines, and other investors. The company provides fleet management services to investors and owners of aircraft portfolios.

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Stewart Information Services (NYSE:STC  Get Free Report) and Progressive (NYSE:PGR  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the better investment? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their profitability, institutional ownership, analyst recommendations, risk, valuation, earnings and dividends.

Profitability

This table compares Stewart Information Services and Progressives net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

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Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Stewart Information Services 3.65% 8.57% 4.45% Progressive 12.57% 33.88% 9.15%

Institutional & Insider Ownership

96.9% of Stewart Information Services shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 85.3% of Progressive shares are held by institutional investors. 1.5% of Stewart Information Services shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 0.3% of Progressive shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Earnings & Valuation

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Stewart Information Services $2.80 billion 0.73 $73.31 million $3.59 20.31 Progressive $85.17 billion 1.55 $8.48 billion $18.23 12.36

This table compares Stewart Information Services and Progressives gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Progressive has higher revenue and earnings than Stewart Information Services. Progressive is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Stewart Information Services, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Risk and Volatility

Stewart Information Services has a beta of 0.95, suggesting that its stock price is 5% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Progressive has a beta of 0.29, suggesting that its stock price is 71% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Dividends

Stewart Information Services pays an annual dividend of $2.10 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.9%. Progressive pays an annual dividend of $0.40 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.2%. Stewart Information Services pays out 58.5% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Progressive pays out 2.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years. Stewart Information Services has raised its dividend for 4 consecutive years. Stewart Information Services is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of current ratings and recommmendations for Stewart Information Services and Progressive, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Stewart Information Services 0 1 2 0 2.67 Progressive 1 12 7 0 2.30

Stewart Information Services presently has a consensus target price of $77.50, indicating a potential upside of 6.31%. Progressive has a consensus target price of $266.46, indicating a potential upside of 18.31%. Given Progressives higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Progressive is more favorable than Stewart Information Services.

Summary

Progressive beats Stewart Information Services on 10 of the 17 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Stewart Information Services

(Get Free Report)

Stewart Information Services Corporation, through its subsidiaries, provides title insurance and real estate transaction related services in the United States and internationally. The company involves in searching, examining, closing, and insuring the condition of the title to real property. It also offers home and personal insurance services; services for tax-deferred exchanges; and digital customer engagement platform services. It also provides appraisal management, online notarization and closing, credit and real estate information, and search and valuation services. The company serves homebuyers and sellers, residential and commercial real estate professionals, mortgage lenders and servicers, title agencies and real estate attorneys, and home builders through direct operations, network of independent agencies, and other businesses. The company was founded in 1893 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.

About Progressive

(Get Free Report)

The Progressive Corporation, an insurance holding company, provides personal and commercial auto, personal residential and commercial property, business related general liability, and other specialty property-casualty insurance products and related services in the United States. It operates in three segments: Personal Lines, Commercial Lines, and Property. The Personal Lines segment writes insurance for personal autos and recreational vehicles (RV). This segment's products include personal auto insurance; and special lines products, including insurance for motorcycles, ATVs, RVs, watercrafts, snowmobiles, and related products. The Commercial Lines segment provides auto-related liability and physical damage insurance, and business-related general liability and property insurance for autos, vans, and pick-up trucks used by small businesses, as well as non-fleet taxis, black-car services, and airport taxis; tractors, trailers, and straight trucks primarily used by regional general freight and expeditor-type businesses, and long-haul operators; dump trucks used by light contractors and heavy constructions; log trucks and garbage trucks used by dirt, sand and gravel, logging, garbage/debris removal, and coal-type businesses; and tow trucks and wreckers used in towing services and gas/service station businesses. The Property segment writes residential property insurance for homeowners, other property owners, and renters, as well as offers manufactured homes, personal umbrella insurance, and primary and excess flood insurance. The company offers policy issuance and claims adjusting services; acts as an agent to homeowners, general liability, workers' compensation insurance, and other products; and reinsurance services. It sells its products through independent insurance agencies, as well as through mobile applications and over the phone. The Progressive Corporation was founded in 1937 and is headquartered in Mayfield Village, Ohio.

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Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A. lessened its holdings in shares of W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE:GWW  Free Report) by 2.5% during the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 16,437 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 424 shares during the period. Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A.s holdings in W.W. Grainger were worth $17,098,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other large investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in GWW. N.E.W. Advisory Services LLC purchased a new stake in W.W. Grainger during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $25,000. Hilltop National Bank bought a new position in shares of W.W. Grainger during the second quarter worth $25,000. Quaker Wealth Management LLC boosted its position in shares of W.W. Grainger by 196.0% during the second quarter. Quaker Wealth Management LLC now owns 24 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $25,000 after acquiring an additional 49 shares during the last quarter. Brown Lisle Cummings Inc. grew its stake in W.W. Grainger by 316.7% during the second quarter. Brown Lisle Cummings Inc. now owns 25 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $26,000 after acquiring an additional 19 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nova Wealth Management Inc. bought a new stake in W.W. Grainger in the 1st quarter valued at $28,000. 80.70% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research firms have commented on GWW. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on shares of W.W. Grainger from $1,035.00 to $1,050.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. Sanford C. Bernstein assumed coverage on W.W. Grainger in a research note on Wednesday. They set a market perform rating and a $975.00 price target for the company. Royal Bank Of Canada lifted their price objective on W.W. Grainger from $1,006.00 to $1,050.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Loop Capital lowered their target price on W.W. Grainger from $1,000.00 to $950.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research report on Monday, August 4th. Finally, Weiss Ratings cut shares of W.W. Grainger from a buy (b-) rating to a hold (c+) rating in a research report on Thursday. One analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, six have issued a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Reduce and an average target price of $1,018.00.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other W.W. Grainger news, SVP Jonny M. Leroy sold 500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, September 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $992.86, for a total value of $496,430.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president owned 1,771 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,758,355.06. This trade represents a 22.02% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. 6.10% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

W.W. Grainger Stock Performance

NYSE:GWW opened at $925.90 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $44.03 billion, a PE ratio of 23.49, a PEG ratio of 2.79 and a beta of 1.17. The stocks fifty day moving average is $966.41 and its 200 day moving average is $1,012.29. W.W. Grainger, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $893.99 and a fifty-two week high of $1,227.44. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.57, a quick ratio of 1.64 and a current ratio of 2.82.

W.W. Grainger (NYSE:GWW  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, October 31st. The industrial products company reported $10.21 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $9.95 by $0.26. W.W. Grainger had a net margin of 10.99% and a return on equity of 49.63%. The company had revenue of $4.66 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.64 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $9.87 earnings per share. W.W. Graingers quarterly revenue was up 6.1% compared to the same quarter last year. W.W. Grainger has set its FY 2025 guidance at 39.000-39.750 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that W.W. Grainger, Inc. will post 40.3 earnings per share for the current year.

W.W. Grainger Dividend Announcement

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Investors of record on Monday, November 10th will be issued a dividend of $2.26 per share. This represents a $9.04 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.0%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 10th. W.W. Graingers dividend payout ratio is presently 25.35%.

W.W. Grainger Profile

(Free Report)

W.W. Grainger, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, distributes maintenance, repair, and operating products and services primarily in North America, Japan, the United Kingdom, and internationally. The company operates through two segments, High-Touch Solutions N.A. and Endless Assortment. The company provides safety, security, material handling and storage equipment, pumps and plumbing equipment, cleaning and maintenance, and metalworking and hand tools.

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Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A. reduced its holdings in Kellanova (NYSE:K  Free Report) by 2.4% in the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 110,511 shares of the companys stock after selling 2,718 shares during the period. Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A.s holdings in Kellanova were worth $8,789,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Several other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Calamos Advisors LLC grew its position in Kellanova by 375.1% in the second quarter. Calamos Advisors LLC now owns 572,274 shares of the companys stock worth $45,513,000 after acquiring an additional 451,825 shares in the last quarter. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey raised its position in Kellanova by 10.9% during the second quarter. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey now owns 42,227 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,358,000 after purchasing an additional 4,146 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Kellanova by 2.3% in the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 7,289,089 shares of the companys stock valued at $577,362,000 after purchasing an additional 163,126 shares during the last quarter. Everett Harris & Co. CA lifted its stake in shares of Kellanova by 1.7% in the 2nd quarter. Everett Harris & Co. CA now owns 11,746 shares of the companys stock valued at $934,000 after purchasing an additional 196 shares during the last quarter. Finally, PNC Financial Services Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Kellanova by 4.3% in the 2nd quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 81,977 shares of the companys stock worth $6,520,000 after purchasing an additional 3,354 shares during the period. 83.87% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Kellanova Price Performance

K opened at $83.32 on Friday. The business has a fifty day moving average of $81.58 and a 200 day moving average of $80.92. The stock has a market cap of $28.99 billion, a P/E ratio of 21.87, a PEG ratio of 5.16 and a beta of 0.23. The company has a quick ratio of 0.45, a current ratio of 0.68 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.03. Kellanova has a 52-week low of $76.48 and a 52-week high of $83.45.

Kellanova Announces Dividend

Kellanova ( NYSE:K Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $0.94 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.88 by $0.06. The business had revenue of $3.26 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.25 billion. Kellanova had a return on equity of 32.54% and a net margin of 10.56%.The businesss revenue was up .8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $0.91 earnings per share. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Kellanova will post 3.93 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 15th. Investors of record on Monday, December 1st will be issued a dividend of $0.58 per share. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 1st. This represents a $2.32 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.8%. Kellanovas dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 63.74%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several analysts recently weighed in on the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. assumed coverage on Kellanova in a report on Wednesday, August 20th. They set a neutral rating and a $83.50 price target on the stock. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Kellanova from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, November 1st. Finally, Weiss Ratings lowered shares of Kellanova from a buy (b-) rating to a hold (c+) rating in a report on Saturday, October 25th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating, According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $83.50.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Kellanova

Insider Transactions at Kellanova

In other Kellanova news, major shareholder Kellogg W. K. Foundation Trust sold 114,599 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, August 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $79.55, for a total value of $9,116,350.45. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 45,097,438 shares in the company, valued at $3,587,501,192.90. This represents a 0.25% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. 1.80% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Kellanova Profile

(Free Report)

Kellanova, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and markets snacks and convenience foods in North America, Europe, Latin America, the Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Australia, and Africa. Its principal products include crackers, crisps, savory snacks, toaster pastries, cereal bars, granola bars and bites, ready-to-eat cereals, frozen waffles, veggie foods, and noodles.

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Bank of New York Mellon Corp raised its holdings in shares of Douglas Emmett, Inc. (NYSE:DEI  Free Report) by 10.8% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 1,866,279 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after purchasing an additional 181,418 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corps holdings in Douglas Emmett were worth $28,069,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. bought a new position in shares of Douglas Emmett during the first quarter valued at approximately $30,000. Brooklyn Investment Group lifted its holdings in Douglas Emmett by 9,036.1% during the first quarter. Brooklyn Investment Group now owns 3,289 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $53,000 after buying an additional 3,253 shares during the period. BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A S purchased a new stake in Douglas Emmett during the first quarter worth $76,000. Wolverine Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in Douglas Emmett during the 1st quarter valued at $88,000. Finally, Raleigh Capital Management Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Douglas Emmett by 18.9% in the 2nd quarter. Raleigh Capital Management Inc. now owns 6,130 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $92,000 after acquiring an additional 975 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 97.37% of the companys stock.

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Douglas Emmett Stock Up 0.9%

NYSE:DEI opened at $11.87 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 3.49, a quick ratio of 3.49 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.55. Douglas Emmett, Inc. has a twelve month low of $11.70 and a twelve month high of $20.50. The company has a market cap of $1.99 billion, a PE ratio of 53.93 and a beta of 1.28. The companys 50 day moving average is $14.34 and its two-hundred day moving average is $14.80.

Douglas Emmett Dividend Announcement

Douglas Emmett ( NYSE:DEI Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, November 4th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.34 EPS for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $0.34. The business had revenue of $250.58 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $252.73 million. Douglas Emmett had a net margin of 3.77% and a return on equity of 1.04%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up .0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.43 earnings per share. Douglas Emmett has set its FY 2025 guidance at 1.430-1.470 EPS. Analysts anticipate that Douglas Emmett, Inc. will post 1.45 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, September 30th were paid a dividend of $0.19 per share. This represents a $0.76 annualized dividend and a yield of 6.4%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 30th. Douglas Emmetts payout ratio is presently 633.33%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities research analysts recently weighed in on the company. Weiss Ratings upgraded Douglas Emmett from a sell (d+) rating to a hold (c-) rating in a research note on Thursday. Scotiabank decreased their price target on shares of Douglas Emmett from $19.00 to $18.00 and set a sector outperform rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, August 28th. Jefferies Financial Group restated a hold rating on shares of Douglas Emmett in a report on Tuesday. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price objective on shares of Douglas Emmett from $16.00 to $20.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 27th. Finally, Piper Sandler downgraded Douglas Emmett from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and reduced their price target for the stock from $19.00 to $14.00 in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and six have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $17.00.

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Douglas Emmett Company Profile

(Free Report)

Douglas Emmett, Inc (DEI) is a fully integrated, self-administered and self-managed real estate investment trust (REIT), and one of the largest owners and operators of high-quality office and multifamily properties located in the premier coastal submarkets of Los Angeles and Honolulu. Douglas Emmett focuses on owning and acquiring a substantial share of top-tier office properties and premier multifamily communities in neighborhoods that possess significant supply constraints, high-end executive housing and key lifestyle amenities.

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Bank of New York Mellon Corp lowered its position in shares of Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE:CHH  Free Report) by 7.1% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 217,314 shares of the companys stock after selling 16,733 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corps holdings in Choice Hotels International were worth $27,573,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Hantz Financial Services Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Choice Hotels International by 23.6% during the 2nd quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 434 shares of the companys stock valued at $55,000 after buying an additional 83 shares in the last quarter. Alliance Wealth Advisors LLC UT grew its position in Choice Hotels International by 2.2% during the first quarter. Alliance Wealth Advisors LLC UT now owns 4,367 shares of the companys stock valued at $580,000 after acquiring an additional 92 shares during the last quarter. Louisiana State Employees Retirement System raised its stake in shares of Choice Hotels International by 1.6% during the first quarter. Louisiana State Employees Retirement System now owns 6,300 shares of the companys stock worth $837,000 after acquiring an additional 100 shares in the last quarter. Signaturefd LLC raised its stake in shares of Choice Hotels International by 64.7% during the first quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 275 shares of the companys stock worth $37,000 after acquiring an additional 108 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Choice Hotels International by 3.4% in the 2nd quarter. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. now owns 3,724 shares of the companys stock worth $473,000 after acquiring an additional 124 shares during the last quarter. 65.57% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities analysts recently commented on CHH shares. Argus reduced their target price on shares of Choice Hotels International from $140.00 to $120.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Friday, November 7th. Bank of America lowered shares of Choice Hotels International from a buy rating to an underperform rating and set a $110.00 price target for the company. in a research report on Monday, September 29th. Morgan Stanley decreased their price objective on Choice Hotels International from $121.00 to $106.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c-) rating on shares of Choice Hotels International in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their target price on Choice Hotels International from $99.00 to $102.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a report on Thursday, November 6th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, six have given a Hold rating and five have given a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Reduce and an average price target of $125.38.

Choice Hotels International Trading Down 0.5%

CHH stock opened at $94.99 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $4.40 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.61, a PEG ratio of 6.60 and a beta of 0.84. The firms 50-day moving average price is $102.81 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $118.28. Choice Hotels International, Inc. has a 12-month low of $90.97 and a 12-month high of $157.86.

Choice Hotels International (NYSE:CHH  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported $2.10 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.18 by ($0.08). The business had revenue of $278.00 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $419.75 million. Choice Hotels International had a negative return on equity of 575.73% and a net margin of 19.52%.The firms revenue for the quarter was up 4.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $2.23 earnings per share. Choice Hotels International has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.820-7.050 EPS. Equities analysts predict that Choice Hotels International, Inc. will post 7.07 EPS for the current year.

Choice Hotels International Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, October 16th. Investors of record on Wednesday, October 1st were issued a dividend of $0.2875 per share. This represents a $1.15 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.2%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, October 1st. Choice Hotels Internationals dividend payout ratio is currently 14.13%.

Choice Hotels International Company Profile

(Free Report)

Choice Hotels International, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a hotel franchisor in the United States and internationally. It operates through Hotel Franchising & Management and Corporate & Other segments. The company franchises lodging properties under the brand names of Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Clarion, Clarion Pointe, Sleep Inn, Ascend Hotel Collection, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn, MainStay Suites, Suburban Studios, WoodSpring Suites, Everhome Suites, Cambria Hotels, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Radisson, Park Plaza, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Radisson Inn & Suites, Park Inn by Radisson, Radisson Individuals, and Radisson Collection.

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Biotricity (OTCMKTS:BTCY  Get Free Report) released its earnings results on Friday. The company reported ($0.03) EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of ($0.08) by $0.05, Zacks reports.

Biotricity Stock Performance

OTCMKTS:BTCY traded up $0.04 on Friday, hitting $0.57. 21,604 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 39,037. Biotricity has a 52 week low of $0.23 and a 52 week high of $0.83. The stock has a market capitalization of $15.28 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -2.72 and a beta of 1.08. The companys 50-day moving average price is $0.59 and its 200 day moving average price is $0.52.

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Biotricity Company Profile

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Biotricity, Inc, a medical technology company, provides biometric data monitoring solutions in the United States. The company focuses on delivery of remote monitoring solutions to medical, healthcare, and consumer markets, including diagnostic and post-diagnostic solutions for lifestyle and chronic illnesses.

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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:

Schematic of umbrella of umbrellas master protocol clinical trial. Credit: The American Journal of Human Genetics (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2025.10.006

Earlier this year, researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Penn created a first-of-its-kind drug customized to a unique genetic mutation to save an infant named Baby KJ from dying of a rare liver disorder.

KJ Muldoon's doctors used CRISPR, the buzzy shorthand for a scientific tool that works like a find-and-replace command, to locate the genetic misspelling that prevented his body from producing a key enzyme that breaks down protein. They then infused a medication laced with bits of genetic code to fix the misspelling, dramatically improving his chances of survival.

The drug will never be given to another patient, but researchers believe the approach could be replicated to help other patients with rare diseases, customizing bespoke drugs to target different genetic misspellings.

They now have a way to put their theory to the test. On Nov. 12, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced a new approach to clinical trials to test one-of-a-kind drugs like the one CHOP and Penn doctors created for KJ.

The approach creates a pathway toward regulatory approvaland insurance coveragefor rare-disease treatments that, in the past, would have had little chance of reaching the market because they benefit so few people.

The FDA's protocol addresses a longtime challenge in developing treatments for rare diseases: Scientists struggle to identify enough patients to create a critical mass in trials, and pharmaceutical companies are reluctant to sink millions of dollars and years of time into developing a drug that, ultimately, will benefit very few people.

Now the FDA's new "plausible mechanism" protocol will create a way for Philadelphia researchers to test the CRISPR framework for treating customized gene therapies for urea cycle disorders related to any one of seven genes. The mechanism will remain the same, but the injection each patient receives will be customized to target their unique genetic mutation.

The Philadelphia teamled by Kiran Musunuru, a cardiologist and leading gene-editing expert at the University of Pennsylvania, and Rebecca Ahrens-Nicklas, a metabolic disease specialist at Children's Hospital of Philadelphiahope their work will be a model for rare-disease drug development.

"As academics, we think of ourselves as the top of the spear, going where the companies are reluctant to go," Musunuru said.

Their goal, he said, is to show pharmaceutical companies that rare-disease drug development is feasible on a larger scale. They published details about their interactions with the FDA in the American Journal of Human Genetics.

Though each rare disease is uncommon, millions of people have a rare disease. Many have shared characteristics that could potentially be addressed through a customizable drug.

Using CRISPR to treat rare diseases

KJ's treatment was a new application for CRISPR, a gene-editing tool with an unlikely origin story involving quality-control tests on bacteria used in making yogurt.

Scientists discovered that bacteria keep records of the DNA of viruses that attack them. These microbial "mug shots" can be utilized to pinpoint a genetic misspelling in a patient's DNA.

A type of enzyme is then used to "cut" the misspelling and either correct it or eliminate it.

Earlier this year, KJ's doctors announced they had used the technology to develop a custom drug using information about his specific gene mutation.

They worked with outside research and manufacturing partners to quickly produce the drug and test it for safety. They were granted expedited authorization by the FDA under rules designed to fast-track treatments for rare diseases.

The approach was life-saving for KJ, who returned home in June after 307 days in the hospital and will need ongoing treatment.

An identical drug can never be used for another patient. And handcrafting drugs for rare-disease patients one by one isn't feasible.

Building on KJ's treatment

To reach more patients with their gene-editing therapy, Musunuru and Ahrens-Nicklas needed to find a way to create a drug that could be produced on a larger scale.

What's more, they needed to be able to apply for FDA approval, the gold standard for drug safety in the United States, without which most insurance companies won't cover drugs.

Typically, drug developers focus on a specific treatment for a specific disease, investing millions of dollars for up to a decade to bring the drug to market.

Instead, Musunuru and Ahrens-Nicklas worked with the FDA to create a trial protocol that would allow them to test a drug platform that could be customized for individual patients.

"Power in numbers is a real thing, to be able to tell if a drug is effective," Musunuru said. "If you were to try to stand up a trial for each of these seven, it would be cost prohibitive."

They plan to keep key elements of the treatment the same: CRISPR will identify the genetic misspelling, and patients will receive a drug laced with bits of DNA to correct it. The exact gene that's targeted will depend on each patient's specific disorder.

They plan to test the drug on patients with urea disorders, which affect the body's ability to break down protein and excrete ammonia, because these conditions have more visible "biomarkers," or indicators that show what the problem is and whether the gene-editing therapy has helped.

"We measure what builds up, and what we're missing," Ahrens-Nicklas said.

For example, KJ had a genetic mutation that prevented his body from creating an enzyme that processed protein. Doctors could readily test that his body lacked the needed enzyme and that his organs weren't getting protein.

After giving him the custom-made treatment, they could see that the enzyme count had increased, and that more protein was being processed.

A new FDA pathway for rare disease treatment

In a New England Journal of Medicine article outlining their plan, FDA Commissioner Marty Makary and Vinay Prasad, the agency's chief medical and scientific officer, pointed to KJ's single-patient gene therapy as an example of how they hope the new protocol will help scale up to reach more patients.

KJ's therapy was initially approved by the FDA in an expedited, one-week review process that is designed for use for a single patient, typically one who is severely ill with an ultrarare disease.

Prasad and Makary wrote that "current regulations are onerous and unnecessarily demanding, provide unclear patient protection, and stifle innovation."

KJ's case "highlights the potential" for single-patient therapies to be developed into a drug that could be modified to address other, similar rare diseases, they wrote.

"Nearly 30 years after the sequencing of the human genome, bespoke therapies are close to reality," they wrote.

2025 The Philadelphia Inquirer, LLC. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Taseko Mines (LON:TKO  Free Report) had its price target lifted by Canaccord Genuity Group from GBX 330 to GBX 390 in a research note released on Friday, Marketbeat.com reports. They currently have a buy rating on the stock.

Taseko Mines Stock Up 0.6%

TKO traded up GBX 2 during trading on Friday, reaching GBX 337. 3,775 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 6,181. Taseko Mines has a 12-month low of GBX 125.50 and a 12-month high of GBX 361.60. The companys 50-day moving average is GBX 303.01 and its two-hundred day moving average is GBX 244.28. The company has a market cap of 1.21 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -33.70 and a beta of 1.92.

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Insider Activity at Taseko Mines

In related news, insider Russell Hallbauer sold 10,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, September 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of GBX 493, for a total transaction of 49,300. Company insiders own 2.58% of the companys stock.

About Taseko Mines

Taseko Mines is a dynamic and growing mining company focused on the operation and development of copper mines in North America.

Headquartered in Vancouver, Taseko operates the state-of-the-art Gibraltar Mine (100% owned), the second largest copper mine in Canada, with a nearly 700-person workforce producing an average of 140 million pounds of copper and 2.5 million pounds of molybdenum per year.

In addition to the Yellowhead copper project and the Aley niobium project, Taseko is also advancing the Florence Copper project in Arizona  a near-term copper producer with an unparalleled energy, water and GHG profile per unit of production.

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Capital One Financial Corporation (NYSE:COF) announced a quarterly dividend on Tuesday, November 4th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be given a dividend of 0.80 per share by the financial services provider on Monday, December 1st. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.5%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 17th. This is a 33.3% increase from Capital One Financials previous quarterly dividend of $0.60.

Capital One Financial has increased its dividend payment by an average of 0.1%annually over the last three years. Capital One Financial has a payout ratio of 17.2% indicating that its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Equities research analysts expect Capital One Financial to earn $18.17 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $3.20 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 17.6%.

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Capital One Financial Trading Down 2.8%

COF opened at $210.74 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $133.97 billion, a PE ratio of 88.92, a P/E/G ratio of 0.70 and a beta of 1.19. Capital One Financial has a one year low of $143.22 and a one year high of $232.45. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.45, a quick ratio of 1.03 and a current ratio of 1.03. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $218.70 and its 200 day moving average price is $210.77.

Insider Buying and Selling

Capital One Financial ( NYSE:COF Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Monday, November 3rd. The financial services provider reported $5.95 EPS for the quarter. Capital One Financial had a return on equity of 10.94% and a net margin of 2.24%.The company had revenue of $15.46 billion for the quarter. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Capital One Financial will post 15.65 EPS for the current year.

In related news, CEO Richard D. Fairbank sold 103,487 shares of Capital One Financial stock in a transaction on Tuesday, November 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $220.68, for a total value of $22,837,511.16. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 4,001,228 shares in the company, valued at approximately $882,990,995.04. This trade represents a 2.52% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, insider Neal Blinde sold 43,200 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $221.83, for a total value of $9,583,056.00. Following the sale, the insider owned 73,020 shares in the company, valued at approximately $16,198,026.60. This trade represents a 37.17% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders have sold a total of 256,380 shares of company stock valued at $57,129,478 in the last three months. 1.26% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Brighton Jones LLC lifted its position in shares of Capital One Financial by 330.1% during the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 13,587 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $2,423,000 after purchasing an additional 10,428 shares during the last quarter. CWM LLC raised its stake in Capital One Financial by 23.6% in the first quarter. CWM LLC now owns 17,053 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $3,058,000 after buying an additional 3,260 shares in the last quarter. Edgestream Partners L.P. raised its stake in Capital One Financial by 29.9% in the first quarter. Edgestream Partners L.P. now owns 4,609 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $826,000 after buying an additional 1,060 shares in the last quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. lifted its holdings in Capital One Financial by 433.9% during the 1st quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 945 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $169,000 after buying an additional 768 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Larson Financial Group LLC boosted its position in shares of Capital One Financial by 6.2% during the 1st quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 2,566 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $460,000 after acquiring an additional 150 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 89.84% of the companys stock.

Capital One Financial Company Profile

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Capital One Financial Corporation operates as the financial services holding company for the Capital One, National Association, which engages in the provision of various financial products and services in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It operates through three segments: Credit Card, Consumer Banking, and Commercial Banking.

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The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW  Get Free Report) insider Jonathan Beatty sold 3,072 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $98.00, for a total value of $301,056.00. Following the sale, the insider owned 11,923 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,168,454. This represents a 20.49% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this link.

Charles Schwab Stock Performance

SCHW traded down $0.99 during trading on Friday, reaching $94.37. 9,356,682 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 9,732,420. The company has a market capitalization of $167.70 billion, a P/E ratio of 22.10, a PEG ratio of 0.85 and a beta of 1.02. The company has a quick ratio of 0.55, a current ratio of 0.55 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $94.01 and a 200 day moving average price of $92.25. The Charles Schwab Corporation has a fifty-two week low of $65.88 and a fifty-two week high of $99.59.

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Charles Schwab (NYSE:SCHW  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 16th. The financial services provider reported $1.31 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.25 by $0.06. Charles Schwab had a net margin of 35.93% and a return on equity of 21.26%. The company had revenue of $6.38 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.93 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $0.71 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 26.6% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, analysts predict that The Charles Schwab Corporation will post 4.22 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Charles Schwab Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 28th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be given a $0.27 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 14th. This represents a $1.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.1%. Charles Schwabs payout ratio is 25.29%.

Charles Schwab announced that its Board of Directors has authorized a stock buyback program on Thursday, July 24th that permits the company to buyback $20.00 billion in outstanding shares. This buyback authorization permits the financial services provider to purchase up to 11.6% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback programs are usually a sign that the companys management believes its shares are undervalued.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. ZWJ Investment Counsel Inc. raised its holdings in Charles Schwab by 4.6% during the 3rd quarter. ZWJ Investment Counsel Inc. now owns 2,390 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $228,000 after buying an additional 106 shares during the period. Bryn Mawr Trust Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Charles Schwab by 2.0% in the 2nd quarter. Bryn Mawr Trust Advisors LLC now owns 5,489 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $501,000 after buying an additional 107 shares during the last quarter. Nicolet Bankshares Inc. increased its stake in shares of Charles Schwab by 0.8% during the 2nd quarter. Nicolet Bankshares Inc. now owns 13,049 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,191,000 after purchasing an additional 107 shares during the last quarter. First PREMIER Bank increased its position in Charles Schwab by 23.8% during the third quarter. First PREMIER Bank now owns 557 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $53,000 after buying an additional 107 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Harfst & Associates Inc. raised its stake in Charles Schwab by 0.3% in the 3rd quarter. Harfst & Associates Inc. now owns 33,724 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $3,220,000 after acquiring an additional 107 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 84.38% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

SCHW has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Wells Fargo & Company set a $102.00 target price on shares of Charles Schwab and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, July 18th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised their price target on Charles Schwab from $109.00 to $111.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, October 17th. JMP Securities reissued a market outperform rating and issued a $110.00 price objective on shares of Charles Schwab in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Bank of America raised their target price on Charles Schwab from $84.00 to $86.00 and gave the company an underperform rating in a research note on Thursday, October 2nd. Finally, Raymond James Financial reiterated an outperform rating and set a $99.00 price target on shares of Charles Schwab in a research report on Friday, July 18th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, sixteen have assigned a Buy rating, five have issued a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Charles Schwab currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $106.45.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Charles Schwab

About Charles Schwab

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The Charles Schwab Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a savings and loan holding company that provides wealth management, securities brokerage, banking, asset management, custody, and financial advisory services in the United States and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Investor Services and Advisor Services.

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Everus Construction Group (NYSE:ECG  Get Free Report) and American Biltrite (OTCMKTS:ABLT  Get Free Report) are both construction companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, earnings, risk, valuation, profitability, institutional ownership and dividends.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Everus Construction Group and American Biltrites gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Everus Construction Group $3.49 billion 1.31 $143.42 million $3.53 25.49 American Biltrite $188.74 million 0.01 -$2.64 million ($229.80) -0.34

Analyst Recommendations

Everus Construction Group has higher revenue and earnings than American Biltrite. American Biltrite is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Everus Construction Group, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

This is a summary of current ratings for Everus Construction Group and American Biltrite, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Everus Construction Group 0 3 2 1 2.67 American Biltrite 0 0 0 0 0.00

Everus Construction Group currently has a consensus target price of $100.33, indicating a potential upside of 11.52%. Given Everus Construction Groups stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, equities analysts clearly believe Everus Construction Group is more favorable than American Biltrite.

Profitability

This table compares Everus Construction Group and American Biltrites net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Everus Construction Group 5.18% 36.74% 12.59% American Biltrite -3.66% -28.92% -5.48%

Summary

Everus Construction Group beats American Biltrite on 12 of the 12 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Everus Construction Group

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Everus Construction Group is providing a full spectrum of construction services through its electrical and mechanical and transmission and distribution specialty contracting services principally in United States. Its specialty contracting services are provided to utility, transportation, commercial, industrial, institutional, renewable and other customers. Everus Construction Group is based in BISMARCK, N.D.

About American Biltrite

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American Biltrite Inc., together with its subsidiaries, provides tape, jewelry, flooring, and rubber products worldwide. The company produces and offers pressure sensitive tapes, films, and protective sheeting under the American Biltrite and Ideal brands, which are used in various markets, such as automotive and transportation; construction; shoe/footwear; graphic arts, print, and signage; and various other industrial and consumer applications. It also manufactures and distributes commercial flooring primarily for healthcare, educational, and institutional sectors; and performance sheet rubber in North America, as well as designs and supplies fashion jewelry to department stores under the brands of Guess, T Tahari, Robert Rose, Berry, and Jessica McClintock. The company sells its tape products through sales organizations, distributors, and select manufacturers representatives. American Biltrite Inc. was founded in 1908 and is based in Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts.

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Cosan (NYSE:CSAN  Get Free Report) and Brookfield Renewable (NYSE:BEPC  Get Free Report) are both mid-cap energy companies, but which is the better stock? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, profitability, valuation, risk, dividends and earnings.

Dividends

Cosan pays an annual dividend of $0.31 per share and has a dividend yield of 6.1%. Brookfield Renewable pays an annual dividend of $1.49 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.5%. Cosan pays out -34.1% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Brookfield Renewable pays out -167.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years. Brookfield Renewable has increased its dividend for 1 consecutive years.

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Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of current recommendations for Cosan and Brookfield Renewable, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Cosan 2 2 1 0 1.80 Brookfield Renewable 1 1 3 0 2.40

Profitability

Cosan currently has a consensus target price of $9.47, suggesting a potential upside of 86.17%. Brookfield Renewable has a consensus target price of $37.50, suggesting a potential downside of 11.16%. Given Cosans higher possible upside, research analysts plainly believe Cosan is more favorable than Brookfield Renewable.

This table compares Cosan and Brookfield Renewables net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Cosan -28.08% -27.61% -8.25% Brookfield Renewable -34.58% -12.74% -3.20%

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Cosan and Brookfield Renewables top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Cosan $43.55 billion 0.05 -$1.75 billion ($0.91) -5.59 Brookfield Renewable $5.88 billion 1.04 $236.00 million ($0.89) -47.43

Brookfield Renewable has lower revenue, but higher earnings than Cosan. Brookfield Renewable is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Cosan, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Volatility and Risk

Cosan has a beta of 1, meaning that its stock price has a similar volatility profile to the S&P 500.Comparatively, Brookfield Renewable has a beta of 1.29, meaning that its stock price is 29% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Institutional & Insider Ownership

75.1% of Brookfield Renewable shares are owned by institutional investors. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Summary

Brookfield Renewable beats Cosan on 11 of the 16 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Cosan

(Get Free Report)

Cosan S.A. engages in the fuel distribution business. It operates through Raizen, Compass, Moove, Rumo, and Radar segments. The companys Raizen segment engages in the production, commercialization, origination, and trading of ethanol, bioenergy, renewable sources, and sugar; trading and resale of electricity; and distribution and commercialization of fuels and lubricants. Its Compass segment distributes piped natural gas to industrial, residential, commercial, automotive, and cogeneration customers; and develops infrastructure projects in a regasification terminal, offshore gas pipeline, and thermal generation projects utilizing natural gas, as well as commercialization of electricity and natural gas. The companys Moove segment produces and distributes lubricants under the Comma brand. Its Rumo segment provides logistics services for rail transportation, port storage, and loading of goods, including grains and sugar; and leases locomotives, wagons, and another railroad equipment, as well as operates containers. The companys Radar segment manages agricultural property. It operates in Brazil, England, France, Spain and Portugal, Argentina, Bolivia, Uruguay and Paraguay, the United States, Asia, and internationally. Cosan S.A. was founded in 1936 and is headquartered in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

About Brookfield Renewable

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Brookfield Renewable Corporation owns and operates a portfolio of renewable power and sustainable solution assets primarily in the United States, Europe, Colombia, and Brazil. It operates hydroelectric, wind, solar, and distributed energy and sustainable solutions with an installed capacity of approximately 19,161 megawatts. The company was incorporated in 2019 and is headquartered in New York, New York. Brookfield Renewable Corporation operates as a subsidiary of Brookfield BRP Holdings (Canada) Inc.

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Creative Planning increased its holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:TSM  Free Report) by 6.8% in the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 532,247 shares of the semiconductor companys stock after purchasing an additional 33,963 shares during the quarter. Creative Plannings holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing were worth $120,549,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. raised its stake in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 55.6% during the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 17,306,108 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $2,872,814,000 after buying an additional 6,180,445 shares during the period. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD increased its holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 19.1% in the 1st quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 12,350,239 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $2,050,141,000 after acquiring an additional 1,984,835 shares in the last quarter. Jennison Associates LLC raised its position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 26.7% during the second quarter. Jennison Associates LLC now owns 12,046,792 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $2,728,478,000 after acquiring an additional 2,537,760 shares during the period. WCM Investment Management LLC raised its position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 3.3% during the second quarter. WCM Investment Management LLC now owns 10,058,659 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $2,299,108,000 after acquiring an additional 324,615 shares during the period. Finally, Alliancebernstein L.P. lifted its holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 31.5% during the first quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 8,864,014 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $1,471,426,000 after purchasing an additional 2,121,758 shares in the last quarter. 16.51% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of analysts have recently commented on the stock. Wall Street Zen cut shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Saturday, November 1st. Itau BBA Securities started coverage on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a report on Tuesday, October 7th. They issued an outperform rating on the stock. Susquehanna increased their target price on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from $300.00 to $400.00 and gave the company a positive rating in a report on Friday, October 10th. Citigroup restated a buy rating on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c+) rating on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a research report on Thursday. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $371.67.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Stock Performance

Shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing stock opened at $284.79 on Friday. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $285.44 and its 200 day moving average price is $241.53. The company has a market cap of $1.48 trillion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 29.21, a PEG ratio of 1.02 and a beta of 1.31. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20, a quick ratio of 2.15 and a current ratio of 2.37. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. has a one year low of $134.25 and a one year high of $311.37.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE:TSM  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 16th. The semiconductor company reported $2.92 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.59 by $0.33. The business had revenue of $32.36 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $951.89 billion. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing had a return on equity of 36.06% and a net margin of 43.72%.The companys quarterly revenue was up 40.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $1.94 EPS. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing has set its Q4 2025 guidance at EPS. On average, research analysts predict that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. will post 9.2 EPS for the current year.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Increases Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, April 9th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, March 17th will be issued a $0.9678 dividend. This represents a $3.87 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.4%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, March 17th. This is a positive change from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings previous quarterly dividend of $0.83. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 26.97%.

About Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing

(Free Report)

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, packages, tests, and sells integrated circuits and other semiconductor devices in Taiwan, China, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Japan, the United States, and internationally. It provides a range of wafer fabrication processes, including processes to manufacture complementary metal- oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) logic, mixed-signal, radio frequency, embedded memory, bipolar CMOS mixed-signal, and others.

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Woodley Farra Manion Portfolio Management Inc. boosted its position in Dover Corporation (NYSE:DOV  Free Report) by 2.1% in the second quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 354,474 shares of the industrial products companys stock after acquiring an additional 7,242 shares during the quarter. Dover makes up about 3.1% of Woodley Farra Manion Portfolio Management Inc.s holdings, making the stock its 15th largest position. Woodley Farra Manion Portfolio Management Inc.s holdings in Dover were worth $64,950,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other large investors have also modified their holdings of the business. Brighton Jones LLC boosted its position in shares of Dover by 62.1% during the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 2,944 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $552,000 after purchasing an additional 1,128 shares in the last quarter. CWM LLC increased its position in Dover by 9.6% during the first quarter. CWM LLC now owns 3,044 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $535,000 after buying an additional 266 shares in the last quarter. Apollon Wealth Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Dover by 21.1% in the first quarter. Apollon Wealth Management LLC now owns 5,591 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $982,000 after acquiring an additional 975 shares during the last quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. lifted its position in shares of Dover by 24.1% in the first quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 494 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $87,000 after acquiring an additional 96 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Whittier Trust Co. boosted its stake in shares of Dover by 36.3% during the first quarter. Whittier Trust Co. now owns 1,862 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $327,000 after acquiring an additional 496 shares during the last quarter. 84.46% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

DOV has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. Royal Bank Of Canada boosted their price objective on shares of Dover from $183.00 to $198.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Friday, October 24th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b-) rating on shares of Dover in a research note on Thursday. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price target on Dover from $217.00 to $220.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Wall Street Zen downgraded Dover from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, November 8th. Finally, UBS Group set a $200.00 target price on Dover in a research note on Friday, October 24th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $212.27.

Dover Stock Performance

NYSE DOV opened at $183.07 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35, a current ratio of 2.04 and a quick ratio of 1.44. Dover Corporation has a 1-year low of $143.04 and a 1-year high of $222.31. The firm has a market capitalization of $25.11 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.26, a P/E/G ratio of 1.40 and a beta of 1.29. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $172.59 and its 200-day simple moving average is $177.75.

Dover (NYSE:DOV  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, June 30th. The industrial products company reported $1.55 EPS for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $1.78 billion for the quarter. Dover had a net margin of 28.37% and a return on equity of 17.62%. Equities analysts predict that Dover Corporation will post 9.45 EPS for the current year.

Dover Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 15th. Investors of record on Friday, November 28th will be issued a dividend of $0.52 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 28th. This represents a $2.08 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.1%. Dovers payout ratio is presently 12.79%.

Dover Company Profile

(Free Report)

Dover Corporation provides equipment and components, consumable supplies, aftermarket parts, software and digital solutions, and support services worldwide. The company's Engineered Products segment provides various equipment, component, software, solution, and services that are used in vehicle aftermarket, waste handling, industrial automation, aerospace and defense, industrial winch and hoist, and fluid dispensing end-market.

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Enova International, Inc. (NYSE:ENVA  Get Free Report) shares reached a new 52-week high on Thursday . The stock traded as high as $133.11 and last traded at $132.25, with a volume of 16366 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $127.26.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities research analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Zacks Research downgraded shares of Enova International from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, September 25th. Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b-) rating on shares of Enova International in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. JMP Securities upped their price objective on shares of Enova International from $135.00 to $149.00 and gave the company a market outperform rating in a research report on Friday, October 24th. Finally, BTIG Research lifted their target price on Enova International from $129.00 to $144.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Friday, October 24th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have given a Buy rating and one has issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Buy and a consensus target price of $116.80.

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Enova International Stock Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.20, a current ratio of 19.29 and a quick ratio of 18.15. The firm has a market cap of $3.12 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.55 and a beta of 1.47. The stocks 50 day moving average is $118.23 and its two-hundred day moving average is $109.36.

Enova International (NYSE:ENVA  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The credit services provider reported $3.36 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.03 by $0.33. The firm had revenue of $460.71 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $806.63 million. Enova International had a net margin of 9.64% and a return on equity of 24.50%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 16.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $2.45 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts predict that Enova International, Inc. will post 10.31 EPS for the current year.

Enova International declared that its board has initiated a share repurchase plan on Wednesday, November 12th that permits the company to repurchase $400.00 million in shares. This repurchase authorization permits the credit services provider to reacquire up to 12.5% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase plans are usually a sign that the companys management believes its stock is undervalued.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Enova International news, CFO Steven E. Cunningham sold 14,874 shares of Enova International stock in a transaction on Wednesday, October 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $120.70, for a total value of $1,795,291.80. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer owned 127,719 shares in the company, valued at approximately $15,415,683.30. The trade was a 10.43% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, CEO David Fisher sold 6,000 shares of Enova International stock in a transaction dated Monday, October 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $122.61, for a total value of $735,660.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 348,223 shares of the companys stock, valued at $42,695,622.03. This represents a 1.69% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders have sold a total of 86,874 shares of company stock valued at $10,708,742 over the last ninety days. Insiders own 8.40% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in ENVA. Horizon Investments LLC grew its position in shares of Enova International by 5.9% during the 3rd quarter. Horizon Investments LLC now owns 14,054 shares of the credit services providers stock worth $1,617,000 after buying an additional 789 shares during the period. Kendall Capital Management boosted its stake in Enova International by 11.0% in the third quarter. Kendall Capital Management now owns 5,415 shares of the credit services providers stock valued at $623,000 after acquiring an additional 535 shares during the last quarter. Hillsdale Investment Management Inc. grew its holdings in Enova International by 12.0% during the 3rd quarter. Hillsdale Investment Management Inc. now owns 58,780 shares of the credit services providers stock worth $6,765,000 after acquiring an additional 6,300 shares during the period. LSV Asset Management bought a new stake in shares of Enova International during the 3rd quarter valued at $253,000. Finally, Moloney Securities Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in Enova International in the third quarter valued at about $289,000. 89.43% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Enova International

(Get Free Report)

Enova International, Inc, a technology and analytics company, provides online financial services in the United States, Brazil, and internationally. The company provides installment loans; line of credit accounts; CSO programs, including arranging loans with independent third-party lenders and assisting in the preparation of loan applications and loan documents; and bank programs, such as marketing services and loan servicing for near-prime unsecured consumer installment loan.

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SG Americas Securities LLC lowered its stake in shares of Extra Space Storage Inc (NYSE:EXR  Free Report) by 29.7% in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 317,023 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 133,731 shares during the period. SG Americas Securities LLCs holdings in Extra Space Storage were worth $46,742,000 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 EXR. GKV Capital Management Co. Inc. acquired a new position in Extra Space Storage during the first quarter worth $29,000. Chung Wu Investment Group LLC acquired a new position in Extra Space Storage during the 2nd quarter worth about $29,000. Zions Bancorporation National Association UT purchased a new position in Extra Space Storage during the 1st quarter valued at about $50,000. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC acquired a new position in Extra Space Storage in the 2nd quarter valued at about $75,000. Finally, Avalon Trust Co acquired a new position in Extra Space Storage in the 1st quarter valued at about $79,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 99.11% of the companys stock.

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Extra Space Storage Trading Up 0.7%

NYSE EXR opened at $132.89 on Friday. Extra Space Storage Inc has a 52 week low of $121.03 and a 52 week high of $175.57. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $141.77 and a two-hundred day moving average of $144.68. The company has a quick ratio of 0.29, a current ratio of 0.29 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.88. The stock has a market capitalization of $28.21 billion, a PE ratio of 29.66, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.56 and a beta of 1.14.

Extra Space Storage Announces Dividend

Extra Space Storage ( NYSE:EXR Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The real estate investment trust reported $2.08 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.06 by $0.02. The business had revenue of $858.46 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $736.26 million. Extra Space Storage had a net margin of 28.40% and a return on equity of 6.53%. The companys revenue was up 4.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business earned $2.07 EPS. Extra Space Storage has set its FY 2025 guidance at 8.120-8.20 EPS. As a group, research analysts expect that Extra Space Storage Inc will post 8.1 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, September 30th. Investors of record on Monday, September 15th were issued a $1.62 dividend. This represents a $6.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, September 15th. Extra Space Storages dividend payout ratio is 144.64%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several analysts have recently issued reports on EXR shares. Citigroup reduced their price target on shares of Extra Space Storage from $165.00 to $150.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, August 22nd. UBS Group reduced their target price on shares of Extra Space Storage from $169.00 to $160.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, September 16th. Evercore ISI restated a cautious rating on shares of Extra Space Storage in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c) rating on shares of Extra Space Storage in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Barclays reduced their price objective on Extra Space Storage from $178.00 to $169.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, August 8th. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and ten have given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $148.36.

Get Our Latest Report on Extra Space Storage

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Extra Space Storage news, CEO Joseph D. Margolis sold 7,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $141.41, for a total transaction of $1,060,575.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 19,760 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,794,261.60. This trade represents a 27.51% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. 0.96% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Extra Space Storage Profile

(Free Report)

Extra Space Storage Inc, headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, is a self-administered and self-managed REIT and a member of the S&P 500. As of December 31, 2023, the Company owned and/or operated 3,714 self-storage stores in 42 states and Washington, DC The Company's stores comprise approximately 2.6 million units and approximately 283.0 million square feet of rentable space operating under the Extra Space, Life Storage and Storage Express brands.

Further Reading

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Farmers Bankshares, Inc. (OTCMKTS:FBVA  Get Free Report) shares rose 2% on Friday . The company traded as high as $18.85 and last traded at $18.81. Approximately 900 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 4% from the average daily volume of 933 shares. The stock had previously closed at $18.45.

Farmers Bankshares Trading Up 2.0%

The companys 50 day moving average price is $18.81 and its 200-day moving average price is $18.81.

Farmers Bankshares Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Farmers Bankshares, Inc operates as the bank holding company for Farmers Bank that provides various banking products and services to small and mid-sized businesses, professionals, corporate executives, and entrepreneurs primarily in southeastern Virginia. The company offers personal and business checking and savings accounts.

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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

Scientists at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School have developed a targeted genetic test to improve diagnosis for X-linked dystonia-parkinsonism (XDP), a rare and disabling movement disorder that affects primarily men of Filipino ancestry.

The work was presented at the Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) 2025 Annual Meeting & Expo, held Nov. 1115 in Boston.

XDP causes symptoms like those of Parkinson's disease, such as muscle spasms, tremors and abnormal postures and movements. It usually first presents in the face, jaw or neck. As it progresses, speech, walking and independent living become more difficult. Early recognition helps patients access support, plan their care and access appropriate genetic counseling.

Several neurological disorders have similar symptoms, which makes getting an accurate diagnosis for XDP specifically quite difficult and slow.

An abnormal region in the TAF1 gene is responsible for the disease. That region contains subtle DNA changes, known as disease-specific single nucleotide changes (DSCs), and they are not routinely analyzed by commercial gene panels or whole-exome sequencing.

Eirini Christodoulou, Ph.D., is a clinical fellow in pathology at Harvard University and a laboratory genetics and genomic fellow at Brigham and Women's Hospital, where she led the new study.

She and her team designed the new test to sequence three key DSCs associated with XDP. They validated the test in eight patients already known to carry the mutation, seven people who do not have the mutation, and three others suspected of having it.

The test correctly identified all the positive cases and led to the proper diagnosis of the three suspected to have it, two of whom had received negative results from standard genetic testing.

"Our test picked up cases that routine sequencing methods such as exome sequencing and panel testing have missed," Christodoulou said.

"We need to identify these cases that would otherwise remain hidden and end diagnostic odysseys, particularly in patients whose symptoms overlap with other movement disorders."

X-linked diseases are caused by changes on the X chromosome, and they affect males disproportionately because they have only one X chromosome. Women have two X chromosomes, so if they inherit the mutation on one copy, the other copy can compensate. Most women are carriers and do not develop the full syndrome, although some may show mild symptoms.

There is no cure for XDP, but medications can help with movement and muscle symptoms. Some patients undergo deep brain stimulation. Physical, speech and occupational therapy are key components of patient care plans.

The mutation for XDP, which is also known as Lubag disease, is believed to have arisen generations ago and is strongly linked to families from the Philippine island of Panay. Among the many reasons XDP is underdiagnosed: limited awareness among clinicians outside of Filipino communities.

In their abstract, the authors of the study wrote, "Including this testing as part of the diagnostic differential may increase the diagnosis rate in this population and reduce the costs associated with a diagnostic odyssey for these patients.

"Ordering providers need to be aware that currently only custom XDP-specific assays assess and report this disease haplotype. Therefore, this test should be ordered alongside other tests in individuals who are at high suspicion for this condition."

Provided by Association for Molecular Pathology
Fortis Inc. (TSE:FTS  Get Free Report) declared a quarterly dividend on Monday, November 17th, TickerTech Dividends reports. Shareholders of record on Monday, December 1st will be paid a dividend of 0.64 per share on Monday, December 1st. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.5%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 17th. This is a 4.1% increase from Fortiss previous quarterly dividend of $0.62.

Fortis Price Performance

Shares of FTS stock traded down C$0.11 during trading hours on Friday, hitting C$73.33. The company had a trading volume of 3,625,198 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,575,451. Fortis has a 12 month low of C$57.98 and a 12 month high of C$74.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 142.31, a quick ratio of 0.36 and a current ratio of 0.74. The firms fifty day moving average is C$70.44 and its 200 day moving average is C$68.02. The firm has a market capitalization of C$36.78 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.82, a PEG ratio of 3.01 and a beta of 0.29.

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Fortis (TSE:FTS  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The company reported C$0.81 EPS for the quarter. Fortis had a return on equity of 7.48% and a net margin of 14.53%.The business had revenue of C$2.94 billion for the quarter. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Fortis will post 3.3419913 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts have recently commented on the stock. Scotiabank boosted their target price on shares of Fortis from C$70.00 to C$73.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research note on Monday, October 6th. Royal Bank Of Canada boosted their price target on shares of Fortis from C$72.00 to C$79.00 in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. Jefferies Financial Group upped their price objective on shares of Fortis from C$70.00 to C$72.00 in a research note on Monday, September 15th. Desjardins lifted their target price on shares of Fortis from C$76.00 to C$79.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, BMO Capital Markets increased their price target on Fortis from C$72.00 to C$74.00 in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have assigned a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of C$73.65.

Read Our Latest Research Report on FTS

Fortis Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Fortis owns and operates 10 utility transmission and distribution assets in Canada and the United States, serving more than 3.4 million electricity and gas customers. The company has smaller stakes in electricity generation and several Caribbean utilities. ITC operates electric transmission in seven U.S.

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Fox Run Management L.L.C. bought a new position in shares of TransAlta Corporation (NYSE:TAC  Free Report) (TSE:TA) in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm bought 12,952 shares of the utilities providers stock, valued at approximately $140,000.

A number of other large investors also recently modified their holdings of TAC. Sowell Financial Services LLC grew its stake in shares of TransAlta by 6.0% in the second quarter. Sowell Financial Services LLC now owns 23,892 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $258,000 after acquiring an additional 1,359 shares during the last quarter. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd grew its stake in TransAlta by 48,666.7% in the 1st quarter. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd now owns 4,389 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $41,000 after acquiring an additional 4,380 shares in the last quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio boosted its position in TransAlta by 6.7% during the second quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio now owns 107,868 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $1,161,000 after purchasing an additional 6,801 shares in the last quarter. Private Advisor Group LLC raised its position in shares of TransAlta by 64.9% in the 1st quarter. Private Advisor Group LLC now owns 17,525 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $164,000 after purchasing an additional 6,900 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Heronetta Management L.P. lifted its stake in TransAlta by 10.4% during the 2nd quarter. Heronetta Management L.P. now owns 85,000 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $917,000 after acquiring an additional 8,000 shares during the period. 59.00% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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TransAlta Stock Performance

Shares of TAC opened at $14.59 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $4.33 billion, a P/E ratio of -34.73 and a beta of 0.80. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $15.13 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $12.41. The company has a current ratio of 0.79, a quick ratio of 0.72 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.98. TransAlta Corporation has a 12 month low of $7.82 and a 12 month high of $17.88.

TransAlta Announces Dividend

TransAlta ( NYSE:TAC Get Free Report ) (TSE:TA) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The utilities provider reported ($0.01) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.06 by ($0.07). The business had revenue of $441.57 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $558.84 million. TransAlta had a negative net margin of 6.79% and a negative return on equity of 2.06%. As a group, analysts predict that TransAlta Corporation will post 0.41 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 1st. Investors of record on Monday, December 1st will be given a dividend of $0.065 per share. This represents a $0.26 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, December 1st. TransAltas dividend payout ratio (DPR) is -37.50%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research analysts recently issued reports on TAC shares. National Bankshares reissued an outperform rating on shares of TransAlta in a report on Tuesday, August 5th. CIBC restated an outperform rating on shares of TransAlta in a research report on Monday, October 20th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d+) rating on shares of TransAlta in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. TD Securities reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $20.00 price objective (up from $19.00) on shares of TransAlta in a research note on Tuesday, August 5th. Finally, Zacks Research cut TransAlta from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a report on Thursday, November 6th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have issued a Buy rating and two have given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $19.88.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on TransAlta

TransAlta Profile

(Free Report)

TransAlta Corporation engages in the development, production, and sale of electric energy. It operates through Hydro, Wind and Solar, Gas, Energy Transition, and Energy Marketing segments. The Hydro segment holds interest of approximately 922 megawatts (MW) of owned hydroelectric generating capacity located in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario.

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Olympiad Research LP trimmed its stake in shares of Hecla Mining Company (NYSE:HL  Free Report) by 15.0% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 33,345 shares of the basic materials companys stock after selling 5,868 shares during the quarter. Olympiad Research LPs holdings in Hecla Mining were worth $200,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in HL. Principal Financial Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Hecla Mining by 22.0% during the first quarter. Principal Financial Group Inc. now owns 39,611 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $220,000 after acquiring an additional 7,149 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corp increased its stake in shares of Hecla Mining by 4.1% in the first quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 2,913,645 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $16,200,000 after purchasing an additional 115,512 shares during the period. Xponance Inc. raised its stake in shares of Hecla Mining by 5.9% during the first quarter. Xponance Inc. now owns 45,092 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $251,000 after purchasing an additional 2,525 shares in the last quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. increased its stake in shares of Hecla Mining by 51.9% during the first quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 22,717 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $126,000 after acquiring an additional 7,759 shares during the period. Finally, Victory Capital Management Inc. lifted its position in Hecla Mining by 17.1% in the first quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 86,331 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $480,000 after purchasing an additional 12,633 shares during the period. 63.01% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Hecla Mining Stock Down 1.6%

HL stock opened at $14.61 on Friday. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $12.56 and its 200-day simple moving average is $8.43. Hecla Mining Company has a 52-week low of $4.46 and a 52-week high of $16.09. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a current ratio of 2.67 and a quick ratio of 1.99. The firm has a market capitalization of $9.79 billion, a P/E ratio of 91.29 and a beta of 1.29.

Hecla Mining Dividend Announcement

Hecla Mining ( NYSE:HL Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The basic materials company reported $0.12 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.11 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $409.54 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $315.60 million. Hecla Mining had a return on equity of 5.51% and a net margin of 9.55%.The companys revenue for the quarter was up 67.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $0.03 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Hecla Mining Company will post 0.21 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 8th. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 24th will be paid a $0.0038 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 24th. This represents a $0.02 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.1%. Hecla Minings payout ratio is 3.23%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research firms have recently commented on HL. BMO Capital Markets boosted their price objective on Hecla Mining from $6.00 to $6.50 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research note on Thursday, August 7th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b-) rating on shares of Hecla Mining in a research report on Thursday. CIBC upped their price target on shares of Hecla Mining from $12.50 to $15.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Friday, October 10th. Scotiabank began coverage on shares of Hecla Mining in a research note on Thursday. They issued a sector perform rating and a $15.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Roth Capital set a $8.75 target price on shares of Hecla Mining and gave the company a sell rating in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have issued a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $10.03.

View Our Latest Analysis on HL

Insider Activity

In other Hecla Mining news, CFO Russell Douglas Lawlar sold 148,372 shares of Hecla Mining stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $15.00, for a total value of $2,225,580.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer directly owned 347,402 shares in the company, valued at $5,211,030. The trade was a 29.93% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, VP Stuart Maurice Absolom sold 14,472 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, September 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $11.29, for a total transaction of $163,388.88. Following the transaction, the vice president owned 73,200 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $826,428. The trade was a 16.51% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 181,379 shares of company stock worth $2,667,365. Insiders own 0.62% of the companys stock.

Hecla Mining Profile

(Free Report)

Hecla Mining Company, together with its subsidiaries, provides precious and base metal properties in the United States, Canada, Japan, Korea, and China. The company mines for silver, gold, lead, and zinc concentrates, as well as carbon material containing silver and gold for custom smelters, metal traders, and third-party processors; and dore containing silver and gold.

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Scotiabank initiated coverage on shares of Hecla Mining (NYSE:HL  Free Report) in a research report sent to investors on Thursday morning, MarketBeat reports. The brokerage issued a sector perform rating and a $15.00 price target on the basic materials companys stock.

Several other research analysts also recently issued reports on HL. Roth Capital set a $8.75 price objective on Hecla Mining and gave the stock a sell rating in a report on Friday, October 3rd. BMO Capital Markets raised their price objective on Hecla Mining from $6.00 to $6.50 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research note on Thursday, August 7th. CIBC raised their price objective on shares of Hecla Mining from $12.50 to $15.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Friday, October 10th. Wall Street Zen raised Hecla Mining from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Sunday, November 2nd. Finally, HC Wainwright upped their target price on Hecla Mining from $12.50 to $16.50 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, November 6th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Hecla Mining has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $10.03.

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Hecla Mining Stock Performance

NYSE:HL traded down $0.24 during midday trading on Thursday, reaching $14.61. The stock had a trading volume of 13,721,654 shares, compared to its average volume of 21,899,592. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a current ratio of 2.67 and a quick ratio of 1.99. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $12.56 and its 200-day simple moving average is $8.43. The stock has a market capitalization of $9.79 billion, a P/E ratio of 91.29 and a beta of 1.29. Hecla Mining has a 1-year low of $4.46 and a 1-year high of $16.09.

Hecla Mining (NYSE:HL  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 5th. The basic materials company reported $0.12 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.11 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $409.54 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $315.60 million. Hecla Mining had a net margin of 9.55% and a return on equity of 5.51%. The businesss revenue was up 67.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $0.03 EPS. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Hecla Mining will post 0.21 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Hecla Mining Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 8th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 24th will be paid a $0.0038 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 24th. This represents a $0.02 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.1%. Hecla Minings dividend payout ratio is currently 3.23%.

Insider Activity at Hecla Mining

In other Hecla Mining news, VP Stuart Maurice Absolom sold 14,472 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, September 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $11.29, for a total transaction of $163,388.88. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president owned 73,200 shares in the company, valued at approximately $826,428. The trade was a 16.51% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CFO Russell Douglas Lawlar sold 18,535 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $15.02, for a total transaction of $278,395.70. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders sold 181,379 shares of company stock worth $2,667,365 over the last quarter. 0.62% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Institutional Trading of Hecla Mining

Large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Transce3nd LLC bought a new stake in shares of Hecla Mining in the second quarter valued at approximately $25,000. USA Financial Formulas purchased a new position in Hecla Mining in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $25,000. UMB Bank n.a. raised its holdings in Hecla Mining by 2,390.0% during the 3rd quarter. UMB Bank n.a. now owns 2,490 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $30,000 after buying an additional 2,390 shares during the last quarter. Migdal Insurance & Financial Holdings Ltd. bought a new stake in shares of Hecla Mining in the first quarter worth about $31,000. Finally, EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Hecla Mining by 255.6% in the second quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 6,156 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $37,000 after acquiring an additional 4,425 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 63.01% of the companys stock.

About Hecla Mining

(Get Free Report)

Hecla Mining Company, together with its subsidiaries, provides precious and base metal properties in the United States, Canada, Japan, Korea, and China. The company mines for silver, gold, lead, and zinc concentrates, as well as carbon material containing silver and gold for custom smelters, metal traders, and third-party processors; and dore containing silver and gold.

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Howmet Aerospace (NYSE:HWM  Free Report) had its price objective hoisted by Bank of America from $215.00 to $250.00 in a research report sent to investors on Friday morning,Benzinga reports. They currently have a buy rating on the stock.

Other research analysts have also issued reports about the stock. TD Cowen lifted their price objective on shares of Howmet Aerospace from $210.00 to $240.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Vertical Research restated a buy rating on shares of Howmet Aerospace in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. Industrial Alliance Securities set a $240.00 price objective on Howmet Aerospace in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Royal Bank Of Canada lifted their target price on Howmet Aerospace from $210.00 to $235.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Finally, Cowen restated a buy rating on shares of Howmet Aerospace in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Fourteen equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $215.29.

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Howmet Aerospace Stock Performance

HWM traded up $1.70 during trading on Friday, hitting $203.00. 1,573,723 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,775,833. The company has a quick ratio of 1.08, a current ratio of 2.31 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.65. Howmet Aerospace has a 1-year low of $105.04 and a 1-year high of $211.95. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $194.70 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $180.81. The firm has a market capitalization of $81.62 billion, a P/E ratio of 59.36, a PEG ratio of 2.64 and a beta of 1.47.

Howmet Aerospace (NYSE:HWM  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $0.95 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.91 by $0.04. The business had revenue of $2.09 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.04 billion. Howmet Aerospace had a net margin of 18.09% and a return on equity of 28.17%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 13.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.81 earnings per share. Howmet Aerospace has set its FY 2025 guidance at 3.660-3.680 EPS. Q4 2025 guidance at 0.940-0.960 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Howmet Aerospace will post 3.27 earnings per share for the current year.

Howmet Aerospace Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, November 25th. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 7th will be given a $0.12 dividend. This represents a $0.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.2%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 7th. Howmet Aerospaces payout ratio is currently 13.48%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Traub Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in Howmet Aerospace in the 2nd quarter worth about $25,000. Winnow Wealth LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Howmet Aerospace in the second quarter worth approximately $25,000. Newbridge Financial Services Group Inc. grew its holdings in Howmet Aerospace by 119.7% in the second quarter. Newbridge Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 134 shares of the companys stock valued at $25,000 after purchasing an additional 73 shares during the period. Tradewinds Capital Management LLC increased its position in Howmet Aerospace by 52.0% during the third quarter. Tradewinds Capital Management LLC now owns 152 shares of the companys stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 52 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Pinpoint Asset Management Ltd raised its stake in Howmet Aerospace by 42.8% during the first quarter. Pinpoint Asset Management Ltd now owns 237 shares of the companys stock worth $31,000 after purchasing an additional 71 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 90.46% of the companys stock.

About Howmet Aerospace

(Get Free Report)

Howmet Aerospace Inc provides advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries in the United States, Japan, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Italy, Canada, Poland, China, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Engine Products, Fastening Systems, Engineered Structures, and Forged Wheels.

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Shares of IDEX Corporation (NYSE:IEX  Get Free Report) have been assigned an average recommendation of Moderate Buy from the six research firms that are currently covering the company, MarketBeat.com reports. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and four have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average 12-month target price among analysts that have covered the stock in the last year is $198.8571.

A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on IEX shares. DA Davidson set a $180.00 price objective on IDEX and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, August 4th. Stifel Nicolaus cut their target price on shares of IDEX from $204.00 to $191.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Monday, October 20th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c-) rating on shares of IDEX in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Oppenheimer set a $210.00 price target on shares of IDEX in a research note on Tuesday, October 7th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada dropped their price objective on shares of IDEX from $200.00 to $195.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, October 30th.

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IDEX Stock Performance

NYSE IEX opened at $164.33 on Friday. The company has a fifty day moving average of $165.09 and a two-hundred day moving average of $172.23. The company has a market capitalization of $12.30 billion, a PE ratio of 26.00, a P/E/G ratio of 1.83 and a beta of 1.04. IDEX has a 1 year low of $153.36 and a 1 year high of $237.38. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a current ratio of 2.93 and a quick ratio of 2.13.

IDEX (NYSE:IEX  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Friday, December 16th. The industrial products company reported $1.79 earnings per share for the quarter. The business had revenue of $712.00 million during the quarter. IDEX had a return on equity of 15.20% and a net margin of 13.97%. As a group, analysts expect that IDEX will post 8.26 earnings per share for the current year.

IDEX announced that its board has authorized a share repurchase program on Thursday, September 18th that authorizes the company to buyback $1.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization authorizes the industrial products company to purchase up to 8.3% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback programs are generally a sign that the companys management believes its shares are undervalued.

IDEX Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 30th. Shareholders of record on Friday, January 16th will be paid a dividend of $0.71 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, January 16th. This represents a $2.84 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.7%. IDEXs dividend payout ratio is currently 44.94%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On IDEX

Several large investors have recently modified their holdings of IEX. Thurston Springer Miller Herd & Titak Inc. grew its position in IDEX by 257.5% in the 2nd quarter. Thurston Springer Miller Herd & Titak Inc. now owns 143 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $25,000 after buying an additional 103 shares during the last quarter. American National Bank & Trust acquired a new stake in shares of IDEX in the 2nd quarter worth $25,000. Capital A Wealth Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of IDEX in the second quarter valued at about $28,000. UMB Bank n.a. increased its stake in shares of IDEX by 61.0% during the third quarter. UMB Bank n.a. now owns 198 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $32,000 after acquiring an additional 75 shares during the period. Finally, Loomis Sayles & Co. L P purchased a new position in IDEX during the second quarter worth about $33,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 97.96% of the companys stock.

IDEX Company Profile

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IDEX Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides applied solutions worldwide. The company operates through three segments: Fluid & Metering Technologies (FMT), Health & Science Technologies (HST), and Fire & Safety/Diversified Products (FSDP). The FMT segment designs, produces, and distributes positive displacement pumps, valves, small volume provers, flow meters, injectors, and other fluid-handling pump modules and systems, as well as flow monitoring and other services for the food, chemical, general industrial, water and wastewater, agricultural, and energy industries.

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Savant Capital LLC boosted its position in shares of Ingersoll Rand Inc. (NYSE:IR  Free Report) by 12.6% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 9,512 shares of the industrial products companys stock after buying an additional 1,065 shares during the period. Savant Capital LLCs holdings in Ingersoll Rand were worth $791,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other large investors have also modified their holdings of IR. Souders Financial Advisors acquired a new position in shares of Ingersoll Rand in the 2nd quarter valued at $212,000. Resona Asset Management Co. Ltd. grew its position in Ingersoll Rand by 5.5% during the 2nd quarter. Resona Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 136,473 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $11,376,000 after purchasing an additional 7,074 shares during the last quarter. Crestwood Advisors Group LLC increased its stake in Ingersoll Rand by 2.5% in the second quarter. Crestwood Advisors Group LLC now owns 19,248 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $1,601,000 after purchasing an additional 466 shares during the period. NewSquare Capital LLC raised its holdings in shares of Ingersoll Rand by 150.7% in the second quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 341 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $28,000 after buying an additional 205 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Fullcircle Wealth LLC boosted its stake in shares of Ingersoll Rand by 8.2% during the second quarter. Fullcircle Wealth LLC now owns 3,194 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $251,000 after buying an additional 243 shares during the period. 95.27% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Ingersoll Rand Trading Down 1.1%

NYSE:IR opened at $75.34 on Friday. Ingersoll Rand Inc. has a 1 year low of $65.61 and a 1 year high of $106.03. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a quick ratio of 1.51 and a current ratio of 2.16. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $79.33 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $81.03. The stock has a market capitalization of $29.77 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 55.81, a PEG ratio of 4.90 and a beta of 1.43.

Ingersoll Rand Announces Dividend

Ingersoll Rand ( NYSE:IR Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The industrial products company reported $0.86 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.87 by ($0.01). Ingersoll Rand had a return on equity of 12.14% and a net margin of 7.31%.The company had revenue of $1.96 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.95 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $0.84 earnings per share. Ingersoll Rands revenue for the quarter was up 5.1% on a year-over-year basis. Ingersoll Rand has set its FY 2025 guidance at 3.250-3.310 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Ingersoll Rand Inc. will post 3.32 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 4th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, November 13th will be given a dividend of $0.02 per share. This represents a $0.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.1%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, November 13th. Ingersoll Rands dividend payout ratio is presently 5.93%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several brokerages recently issued reports on IR. Robert W. Baird dropped their price target on Ingersoll Rand from $103.00 to $100.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Ingersoll Rand in a report on Thursday. Stifel Nicolaus upped their price target on Ingersoll Rand from $78.00 to $79.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Monday, October 20th. Citigroup lowered their price objective on shares of Ingersoll Rand from $94.00 to $91.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Finally, Barclays cut their price objective on shares of Ingersoll Rand from $92.00 to $91.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Monday, August 4th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and six have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $93.90.

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Ingersoll Rand Company Profile

(Free Report)

Ingersoll Rand Inc provides various mission-critical air, gas, liquid, and solid flow creation technologies services and solutions worldwide. It operates through two segments, Industrial Technologies and Services, and Precision and Science Technologies. The Industrial Technologies and Services segment designs, manufactures, markets, and services air and gas compression, vacuum, and blower products; fluid transfer equipment and loading systems; and power tools and lifting equipment, including associated aftermarket parts, consumables, air treatment equipment, controls, other accessories, and services under the under the Ingersoll Rand, Gardner Denver, Nash, CompAir, Elmo Rietschle brands, etc.

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Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE:HIMS  Get Free Report) insider Soleil Boughton sold 2,637 shares of Hims & Hers Health stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $42.53, for a total transaction of $112,151.61. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 155,856 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,628,555.68. The trade was a 1.66% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink.

Soleil Boughton also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Monday, October 27th, Soleil Boughton sold 2,637 shares of Hims & Hers Health stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $50.10, for a total value of $132,113.70.

On Monday, October 13th, Soleil Boughton sold 2,637 shares of Hims & Hers Health stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $54.38, for a total value of $143,400.06.

On Monday, September 29th, Soleil Boughton sold 2,637 shares of Hims & Hers Health stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $58.79, for a total value of $155,029.23.

On Wednesday, September 17th, Soleil Boughton sold 2,637 shares of Hims & Hers Health stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $50.50, for a total value of $133,168.50.

On Monday, August 25th, Soleil Boughton sold 2,571 shares of Hims & Hers Health stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $44.53, for a total value of $114,486.63.

Hims & Hers Health Price Performance

HIMS opened at $37.09 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $8.44 billion, a PE ratio of 68.68, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 7.18 and a beta of 2.20. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.67, a current ratio of 1.88 and a quick ratio of 1.64. The businesss 50-day moving average is $50.63 and its two-hundred day moving average is $51.22. Hims & Hers Health, Inc. has a 1 year low of $19.15 and a 1 year high of $72.98.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Hims & Hers Health ( NYSE:HIMS Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Monday, November 3rd. The company reported $0.06 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.09 by ($0.03). Hims & Hers Health had a net margin of 6.05% and a return on equity of 24.67%. The firm had revenue of $598.98 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $578.99 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $0.32 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up 49.2% on a year-over-year basis. Hims & Hers Health has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. Q4 2025 guidance at EPS. Research analysts anticipate that Hims & Hers Health, Inc. will post 0.29 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Several equities analysts have issued reports on HIMS shares. BTIG Research reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $85.00 price target on shares of Hims & Hers Health in a report on Tuesday, November 4th. Needham & Company LLC restated a hold rating on shares of Hims & Hers Health in a research note on Tuesday, August 5th. Truist Financial decreased their price target on Hims & Hers Health from $48.00 to $37.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research note on Monday, August 18th. Canaccord Genuity Group reissued a buy rating and issued a $68.00 price target on shares of Hims & Hers Health in a report on Friday, September 12th. Finally, KeyCorp began coverage on shares of Hims & Hers Health in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. They set a sector weight rating on the stock. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, ten have given a Hold rating and three have given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Reduce and a consensus price target of $45.27.

Read Our Latest Analysis on Hims & Hers Health

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Quent Capital LLC purchased a new position in shares of Hims & Hers Health in the third quarter worth about $28,000. Binnacle Investments Inc acquired a new position in Hims & Hers Health in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $28,000. Virtus Advisers LLC purchased a new position in Hims & Hers Health during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $26,000. Quaker Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in Hims & Hers Health during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $29,000. Finally, Bessemer Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Hims & Hers Health by 105.8% in the 2nd quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 607 shares of the companys stock valued at $30,000 after acquiring an additional 312 shares during the last quarter. 63.52% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Hims & Hers Health

(Get Free Report)

Hims & Hers Health, Inc operates a telehealth consultation platform. It connects consumers to healthcare professionals, enabling them to access medical care for mental health, sexual health, dermatology and primary care. The company was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in San Francisco, CA.

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Intech Investment Management LLC grew its holdings in Canadian Natural Resources Limited (NYSE:CNQ  Free Report) (TSE:CNQ) by 13.5% during the second quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 505,487 shares of the oil and gas producers stock after buying an additional 59,984 shares during the period. Intech Investment Management LLCs holdings in Canadian Natural Resources were worth $15,856,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its position in Canadian Natural Resources by 240.8% in the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 22,776,594 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $701,519,000 after purchasing an additional 16,094,168 shares during the last quarter. Bank of Nova Scotia raised its position in shares of Canadian Natural Resources by 86.6% in the first quarter. Bank of Nova Scotia now owns 24,262,707 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $746,675,000 after purchasing an additional 11,259,267 shares during the period. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. lifted its position in Canadian Natural Resources by 29.1% during the 1st quarter. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. now owns 43,968,120 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $1,354,219,000 after acquiring an additional 9,915,345 shares during the last quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board lifted its position in shares of Canadian Natural Resources by 13.0% during the 1st quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board now owns 41,769,153 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $1,285,464,000 after purchasing an additional 4,805,451 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Canadian Natural Resources by 19.8% during the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 17,146,792 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $548,214,000 after buying an additional 2,832,155 shares during the last quarter. 74.03% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Canadian Natural Resources Stock Up 3.0%

Shares of NYSE:CNQ opened at $33.54 on Friday. The companys fifty day moving average is $31.74 and its 200-day moving average is $31.36. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.38, a quick ratio of 0.54 and a current ratio of 0.85. Canadian Natural Resources Limited has a 52 week low of $24.65 and a 52 week high of $34.97. The company has a market capitalization of $69.86 billion, a PE ratio of 11.89 and a beta of 0.96.

Canadian Natural Resources Increases Dividend

Canadian Natural Resources ( NYSE:CNQ Get Free Report ) (TSE:CNQ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The oil and gas producer reported $0.62 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.54 by $0.08. The firm had revenue of $6.79 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.81 billion. Canadian Natural Resources had a net margin of 19.00% and a return on equity of 19.67%. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.97 EPS. Equities research analysts predict that Canadian Natural Resources Limited will post 2.45 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, January 6th. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 12th will be issued a $0.5875 dividend. This represents a $2.35 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 7.0%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, December 12th. This is an increase from Canadian Natural Resourcess previous quarterly dividend of $0.43. Canadian Natural Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 73.89%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of brokerages have recently commented on CNQ. TD Securities reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Canadian Natural Resources in a research report on Tuesday, September 30th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Canadian Natural Resources in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued an outperform rating and issued a $62.00 target price on shares of Canadian Natural Resources in a research note on Wednesday, September 24th. Wells Fargo & Company raised shares of Canadian Natural Resources to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. Finally, Zacks Research raised Canadian Natural Resources from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Tuesday, August 26th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have assigned a Buy rating and four have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Canadian Natural Resources currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $62.00.

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Canadian Natural Resources 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).

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Intrua Financial LLC boosted its position in UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH  Free Report) by 30.8% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 2,639 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock after buying an additional 622 shares during the quarter. Intrua Financial LLCs holdings in UnitedHealth Group were worth $823,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the business. LFA Lugano Financial Advisors SA acquired a new position in UnitedHealth Group during the second quarter valued at approximately $25,000. Bayforest Capital Ltd raised its holdings in UnitedHealth Group by 685.7% in the 1st quarter. Bayforest Capital Ltd now owns 55 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 48 shares during the period. Clal Insurance Enterprises Holdings Ltd boosted its position in shares of UnitedHealth Group by 416.7% in the first quarter. Clal Insurance Enterprises Holdings Ltd now owns 62 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $32,000 after acquiring an additional 50 shares during the period. Glass Jacobson Investment Advisors llc grew its position in shares of UnitedHealth Group by 80.9% during the 2nd quarter. Glass Jacobson Investment Advisors llc now owns 123 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock worth $38,000 after purchasing an additional 55 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Kentucky Trust Co grew its position in UnitedHealth Group by 53.8% during the second quarter. Kentucky Trust Co now owns 143 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock worth $45,000 after buying an additional 50 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 87.86% of the companys stock.

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UnitedHealth Group Price Performance

Shares of UNH opened at $321.44 on Friday. The business has a 50-day moving average of $347.65 and a 200-day moving average of $320.06. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated has a 1 year low of $234.60 and a 1 year high of $622.83. The company has a market capitalization of $291.17 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.78, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.28 and a beta of 0.47. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.71, a current ratio of 0.82 and a quick ratio of 0.85.

UnitedHealth Group Announces Dividend

UnitedHealth Group ( NYSE:UNH Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The healthcare conglomerate reported $2.92 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.87 by $0.05. UnitedHealth Group had a net margin of 4.04% and a return on equity of 19.23%. The business had revenue of $113.16 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $113.19 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $7.15 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 12.2% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that UnitedHealth Group Incorporated will post 29.54 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 16th. Shareholders of record on Monday, December 8th will be issued a dividend of $2.21 per share. This represents a $8.84 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.8%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 8th. UnitedHealth Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 46.14%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

UNH has been the topic of several analyst reports. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered UnitedHealth Group from a buy rating to a hold rating and set a $333.00 target price on the stock. in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Jefferies Financial Group raised their price target on shares of UnitedHealth Group from $317.00 to $409.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Piper Sandler cut their target price on shares of UnitedHealth Group from $423.00 to $417.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, October 28th. Baird R W cut UnitedHealth Group from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research note on Thursday, July 31st. Finally, Cantor Fitzgerald reaffirmed an overweight rating and issued a $440.00 target price on shares of UnitedHealth Group in a report on Tuesday, August 26th. Eighteen analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, nine have assigned a Hold rating and three have assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, UnitedHealth Group currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $397.12.

View Our Latest Report on UNH

UnitedHealth Group Company Profile

(Free Report)

UnitedHealth Group Incorporated operates as a diversified health care company in the United States. The company operates through four segments: UnitedHealthcare, Optum Health, Optum Insight, and Optum Rx. The UnitedHealthcare segment offers consumer-oriented health benefit plans and services for national employers, public sector employers, mid-sized employers, small businesses, and individuals; health care coverage, and health and well-being services to individuals age 50 and older addressing their needs; Medicaid plans, children's health insurance and health care programs; and health and dental benefits, and hospital and clinical services, as well as health care benefits products and services to state programs caring for the economically disadvantaged, medically underserved, and those without the benefit of employer-funded health care coverage.

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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 United States on Friday said it would add its most serious warning label to a gene therapy treatment for a debilitating muscle-wasting disease, and also limit its approved use.

The Food and Drug Administration said the decision to narrow the approved use of Elevidyswhich is administered as an infusion to try and slow the progression of Duchenne muscular dystrophycomes after two adolescent patients died of acute liver failure after receiving the treatment.

When they began the therapy, both of those patients were no longer able to walk. Prescription of it will now be limited to people who can walk and are older than four.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a rare, fatal disease that causes muscular deterioration, including the heart. Most patients with the devastating condition are boys with an average life expectancy of 28.

Over the summer Sarepta, the US-based biopharmaceutical giant behind the therapy, paused distribution of the treatment to non-ambulatory patients.

The FDA halted trials and announced a safety review in Julyand asked Sarepta to stop all shipments of Elevidys. The company said it would continue providing the treatment to patients who could walk.

Also in July Europe's Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use recommended against marketing approval for Elevidys, saying data had failed to adequately demonstrate the treatment's effect on movement abilities.

According to trade publications, debate over whether to approve the treatment had provoked tensions within the FDA itself, as parent and advocacy organizations desperately seek options to relieve suffering from the disease.

The new labeling will recommend precautions including weekly liver function monitoring for the first three months after treatment starts.

 2025 AFP
Invmun Incom (NYSE:OIA  Get Free Report) declared a monthly dividend on Monday, November 3rd. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be paid a dividend of 0.0291 per share by the investment management company on Friday, November 28th. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 17th.

Invmun Incom Stock Performance

OIA opened at $6.04 on Friday. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $6.02 and its 200-day simple moving average is $5.81. Invmun Incom has a 1 year low of $5.43 and a 1 year high of $6.70.

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Hedge Funds Weigh In On Invmun Incom

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of OIA. Entrewealth LLC acquired a new position in Invmun Incom in the first quarter valued at about $65,000. NWF Advisory Services Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Invmun Incom during the second quarter worth about $70,000. Vista Investment Partners II LLC bought a new position in shares of Invmun Incom during the 3rd quarter valued at about $84,000. Baird Financial Group Inc. grew its position in shares of Invmun Incom by 31.9% in the 2nd quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. now owns 16,555 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $95,000 after purchasing an additional 4,000 shares during the period. Finally, River Street Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Invmun Incom in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $106,000. 12.57% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Invmun Incom

Invesco Municipal Income Opportunities Trust is a closed-ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Invesco Ltd. The fund is co-managed by Invesco Advisers, Inc, INVESCO Asset Management Deutschland GmbH, INVESCO Asset Management Limited, INVESCO Asset Management (Japan) Limited, Invesco Hong Kong Limited, INVESCO Senior Secured Management, Inc, and Invesco Canada Ltd.

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IQVIA Holdings Inc. (NYSE:IQV  Get Free Report)s stock price hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Thursday . The company traded as high as $228.12 and last traded at $226.3070, with a volume of 527279 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $220.88.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research firms have weighed in on IQV. Barclays increased their price objective on IQVIA from $185.00 to $200.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Thursday, October 2nd. Redburn Partners set a $214.00 price target on shares of IQVIA in a report on Wednesday, September 3rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on shares of IQVIA from $177.00 to $255.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Wall Street Zen cut shares of IQVIA from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Sunday, November 9th. Finally, TD Cowen cut IQVIA from a buy rating to a hold rating and lifted their price objective for the company from $206.00 to $215.00 in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, sixteen have assigned a Buy rating and six have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $241.00.

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Check Out Our Latest Report on IQV

IQVIA Price Performance

The stock has a market capitalization of $37.65 billion, a P/E ratio of 30.32, a P/E/G ratio of 2.50 and a beta of 1.34. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $202.72 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $178.54. The company has a quick ratio of 0.70, a current ratio of 0.70 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.03.

IQVIA (NYSE:IQV  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 28th. The medical research company reported $3.00 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.98 by $0.02. The business had revenue of $4.10 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.07 billion. IQVIA had a net margin of 8.07% and a return on equity of 30.70%. IQVIAs revenue was up 5.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business earned $2.84 EPS. IQVIA has set its FY 2025 guidance at 11.850-11.950 EPS. On average, analysts expect that IQVIA Holdings Inc. will post 10.84 EPS for the current year.

Insider Activity at IQVIA

In related news, insider Eric Sherbet sold 4,000 shares of IQVIA stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, October 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $219.70, for a total value of $878,800.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider directly owned 27,108 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,955,627.60. This trade represents a 12.86% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. 1.60% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On IQVIA

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Creative Planning boosted its holdings in shares of IQVIA by 28.1% in the third quarter. Creative Planning now owns 50,166 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $9,528,000 after buying an additional 11,015 shares during the last quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of IQVIA by 14.3% during the 3rd quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 1,777,700 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $321,586,000 after acquiring an additional 222,402 shares during the last quarter. Zacks Investment Management increased its stake in shares of IQVIA by 11.9% in the 3rd quarter. Zacks Investment Management now owns 1,650 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $314,000 after purchasing an additional 176 shares in the last quarter. Ancora Advisors LLC raised its holdings in IQVIA by 17.9% in the 3rd quarter. Ancora Advisors LLC now owns 521 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $99,000 after purchasing an additional 79 shares during the period. Finally, Credit Agricole S A purchased a new position in IQVIA during the third quarter valued at $14,548,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 89.62% of the companys stock.

About IQVIA

(Get Free Report)

IQVIA Holdings Inc engages in the provision of advanced analytics, technology solutions, and clinical research services to the life sciences industry in the Americas, Europe, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific. It operates through three segments: Technology & Analytics Solutions, Research & Development Solutions, and Contract Sales & Medical Solutions.

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IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones S.A. (NYSE:IRS  Get Free Report) declared an annual dividend on Thursday, November 13th. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 24th will be paid a dividend of 1.4151 per share by the financial services provider on Tuesday, December 2nd. This represents a yield of 884.0%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 24th.

IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones has increased its dividend payment by an average of 0.5%annually over the last three years.

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IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones Price Performance

IRS opened at $15.93 on Friday. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $12.96 and a 200-day moving average price of $14.17. IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones has a twelve month low of $10.61 and a twelve month high of $17.67. The company has a quick ratio of 1.88, a current ratio of 2.17 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.30. The company has a market capitalization of $1.21 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 7.75 and a beta of 1.50.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones ( NYSE:IRS Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The financial services provider reported $1.42 EPS for the quarter. IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones had a net margin of 36.40% and a return on equity of 12.00%. The company had revenue of $97.35 million for the quarter.

A number of equities analysts have recently commented on the company. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c) rating on shares of IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Wall Street Zen cut IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, September 13th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Hold rating, Based on data from MarketBeat, IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones currently has an average rating of Hold.

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About IRSA Inversiones Y Representaciones

(Get Free Report)

IRSA Inversiones y Representaciones Sociedad Anonima, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the diversified real estate activities in Argentina. It operates through five segments: Shopping Malls, Offices, Hotels, Sales and Developments, and Others. The company is involved in the acquisition, development, and operation of shopping malls, office buildings, and other non-shopping mall properties primarily for rental purposes.

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iShares Global Financials ETF (NYSEARCA:IXG  Get Free Report)s share price reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $117.98 and last traded at $117.83, with a volume of 16056 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $116.81.

iShares Global Financials ETF Price Performance

The company has a 50-day moving average price of $115.37 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $112.06. The company has a market cap of $607.69 million, a PE ratio of 14.77 and a beta of 0.93.

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Hedge Funds Weigh In On iShares Global Financials ETF

Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Bank of America Corp DE raised its stake in iShares Global Financials ETF by 12.8% during the second quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 282,050 shares of the companys stock valued at $31,257,000 after buying an additional 32,026 shares in the last quarter. Johnson Bixby & Associates LLC raised its position in shares of iShares Global Financials ETF by 1.1% during the 3rd quarter. Johnson Bixby & Associates LLC now owns 131,068 shares of the companys stock valued at $15,292,000 after acquiring an additional 1,443 shares in the last quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp lifted its stake in iShares Global Financials ETF by 6,907.8% during the first quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 124,388 shares of the companys stock worth $12,814,000 after purchasing an additional 122,613 shares during the last quarter. EWG Elevate Inc. lifted its stake in iShares Global Financials ETF by 3.5% during the third quarter. EWG Elevate Inc. now owns 104,843 shares of the companys stock worth $12,232,000 after purchasing an additional 3,539 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Envestnet Asset Management Inc. boosted its holdings in iShares Global Financials ETF by 1,681.5% in the third quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 96,574 shares of the companys stock worth $11,268,000 after purchasing an additional 91,153 shares during the period.

About iShares Global Financials ETF

Ishares S&P Global Financials Sector Index Fund, formerly iShares Global Financials ETF (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of companies that Standard & Poors deems part of the financial sector of the economy and important to global markets, as represented by the S&P Global 1200 Financials Sector Index (the Index).

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iShares MSCI South Africa ETF (NYSEARCA:EZA  Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high during trading on Wednesday . The company traded as high as $67.85 and last traded at $67.7510, with a volume of 80576 shares. The stock had previously closed at $66.53.

iShares MSCI South Africa ETF Trading Down 1.2%

The company has a market cap of $529.22 million, a P/E ratio of 14.34 and a beta of 0.78. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $63.87 and its 200 day simple moving average is $57.39.

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Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of large investors have recently modified their holdings of EZA. Barometer Capital Management Inc. bought a new position in iShares MSCI South Africa ETF in the 3rd quarter worth $320,000. Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of iShares MSCI South Africa ETF by 65.9% in the second quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group Inc. now owns 9,141 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $491,000 after acquiring an additional 3,631 shares in the last quarter. ABC Arbitrage SA purchased a new position in shares of iShares MSCI South Africa ETF in the third quarter valued at about $631,000. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. boosted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI South Africa ETF by 4.4% in the first quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 10,009 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $482,000 after acquiring an additional 419 shares during the period. Finally, Mount Lucas Management LP boosted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI South Africa ETF by 1.2% in the first quarter. Mount Lucas Management LP now owns 19,825 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $954,000 after acquiring an additional 234 shares during the period.

About iShares MSCI South Africa ETF

iShares MSCI South Africa ETF, formerly iShares MSCI South Africa Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange traded fund. The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of publicly traded securities in the aggregate in the South African market, as measured by the MSCI South Africa Index (the Index).

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Scotiabank upgraded shares of Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ  Free Report) to a strong-buy rating in a research report report published on Wednesday morning,Zacks.com reports.

JNJ has been the subject of several other reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price objective on Johnson & Johnson from $185.00 to $200.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 16th. Daiwa America raised Johnson & Johnson from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Monday, October 20th. Royal Bank Of Canada restated an outperform rating and issued a $209.00 target price on shares of Johnson & Johnson in a research note on Friday, October 10th. Piper Sandler reaffirmed an overweight rating on shares of Johnson & Johnson in a research note on Thursday, July 17th. Finally, Loop Capital set a $190.00 price objective on shares of Johnson & Johnson in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fourteen have assigned a Buy rating and nine have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $200.52.

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View Our Latest Report on Johnson & Johnson

Johnson & Johnson Trading Up 0.4%

Shares of JNJ stock traded up $0.75 on Wednesday, hitting $196.00. The stock had a trading volume of 8,824,040 shares, compared to its average volume of 8,815,848. The company has a current ratio of 1.07, a quick ratio of 0.80 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50. Johnson & Johnson has a twelve month low of $140.68 and a twelve month high of $197.18. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $185.46 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $169.66. The firm has a market cap of $472.22 billion, a P/E ratio of 18.92, a PEG ratio of 2.19 and a beta of 0.38.

Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, August 30th. The company reported $2.26 earnings per share for the quarter. Johnson & Johnson had a return on equity of 32.73% and a net margin of 27.26%.The firm had revenue of $24.02 billion for the quarter. As a group, analysts forecast that Johnson & Johnson will post 10.58 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Johnson & Johnson Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 9th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, November 25th will be paid a $1.30 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, November 25th. This represents a $5.20 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.7%. Johnson & Johnsons dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 50.19%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Johnson & Johnson

In related news, EVP Jennifer L. Taubert sold 56,471 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, September 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $177.81, for a total transaction of $10,041,108.51. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 178,013 shares in the company, valued at $31,652,491.53. This represents a 24.08% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. 0.16% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Abich Financial Wealth Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Johnson & Johnson during the third quarter worth $26,000. Evolution Wealth Management Inc. bought a new stake in Johnson & Johnson during the 2nd quarter worth $27,000. Clayton Financial Group LLC acquired a new position in Johnson & Johnson in the 3rd quarter worth about $28,000. Semmax Financial Advisors Inc. raised its position in Johnson & Johnson by 55.0% in the second quarter. Semmax Financial Advisors Inc. now owns 203 shares of the companys stock valued at $31,000 after purchasing an additional 72 shares during the last quarter. Finally, GFG Capital LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Johnson & Johnson during the second quarter valued at about $35,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 69.55% of the companys stock.

Johnson & Johnson Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Johnson & Johnson is a holding company, which engages in the research, development, manufacture, and sale of products in the healthcare field. It operates through the Innovative Medicine and MedTech segments. The Innovative Medicine segment focuses on immunology, infectious diseases, neuroscience, oncology, cardiovascular and metabolism, and pulmonary hypertension.

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Jupiter Asset Management Ltd. trimmed its position in Ares Management Corporation (NYSE:ARES  Free Report) by 81.9% in the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 8,163 shares of the asset managers stock after selling 36,973 shares during the period. Jupiter Asset Management Ltd.s holdings in Ares Management were worth $1,414,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. New York Life Investment Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Ares Management by 2.0% in the second quarter. New York Life Investment Management LLC now owns 3,083 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $534,000 after acquiring an additional 59 shares in the last quarter. First Horizon Advisors Inc. boosted its position in Ares Management by 10.3% in the second quarter. First Horizon Advisors Inc. now owns 630 shares of the asset managers stock worth $109,000 after purchasing an additional 59 shares during the last quarter. MGO One Seven LLC grew its stake in Ares Management by 1.3% in the 2nd quarter. MGO One Seven LLC now owns 4,576 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $793,000 after purchasing an additional 60 shares during the period. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC grew its stake in Ares Management by 9.1% in the 1st quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC now owns 746 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $108,000 after purchasing an additional 62 shares during the period. Finally, Cigna Investments Inc. New increased its position in shares of Ares Management by 3.4% during the 2nd quarter. Cigna Investments Inc. New now owns 1,890 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $327,000 after purchasing an additional 62 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 50.03% of the companys stock.

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Ares Management Stock Down 1.3%

Ares Management stock opened at $146.53 on Friday. Ares Management Corporation has a 1-year low of $110.63 and a 1-year high of $200.49. The firm has a market capitalization of $47.87 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 84.70, a P/E/G ratio of 1.19 and a beta of 1.45. The company has a current ratio of 1.08, a quick ratio of 1.08 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $158.36 and a 200 day simple moving average of $168.83.

Ares Management Cuts Dividend

Ares Management ( NYSE:ARES Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Friday, October 31st. The asset manager reported $1.19 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.14 by $0.05. Ares Management had a return on equity of 15.81% and a net margin of 9.47%.The firm had revenue of $1.66 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.03 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $0.55 earnings per share. On average, analysts predict that Ares Management Corporation will post 5.28 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Investors of record on Wednesday, December 17th will be issued a dividend of $0.8438 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 17th. This represents a $3.38 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.3%. Ares Managements dividend payout ratio is 192.27%.

Insider Activity

In other Ares Management news, Chairman Antony P. Ressler sold 196,197 shares of Ares Management stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $178.79, for a total transaction of $35,078,061.63. Following the completion of the transaction, the chairman owned 1,424,538 shares of the companys stock, valued at $254,693,149.02. The trade was a 12.11% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Also, CEO Michael J. Arougheti sold 136,516 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 19th. The stock was sold at an average price of $182.74, for a total transaction of $24,946,933.84. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 311,728 shares in the company, valued at approximately $56,965,174.72. The trade was a 30.46% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. In the last 90 days, insiders sold 2,533,796 shares of company stock valued at $453,825,507. 36.86% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities analysts recently weighed in on ARES shares. JMP Securities boosted their price target on shares of Ares Management from $195.00 to $205.00 and gave the stock a market outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, August 6th. Oppenheimer set a $190.00 target price on shares of Ares Management and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 4th. Royal Bank Of Canada restated an outperform rating and set a $215.00 price target on shares of Ares Management in a research note on Monday, September 29th. Raymond James Financial started coverage on Ares Management in a research note on Monday, July 28th. They issued a market perform rating on the stock. Finally, Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of Ares Management in a report on Tuesday. Thirteen investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $187.46.

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Ares Management Company Profile

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Ares Management Corporation operates as an alternative asset manager in the United States, Europe, and Asia. The company's Tradable Credit Group segment manages various types of investment funds, such as commingled and separately managed accounts for institutional investors, and publicly traded vehicles and sub-advised funds for retail investors in the tradable and non-investment grade corporate credit markets.

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Kane Investment Management Inc. lifted its stake in Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF (NYSEARCA:SPHQ  Free Report) by 18.9% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 18,472 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 2,941 shares during the quarter. Kane Investment Management Inc.s holdings in Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF were worth $1,316,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Berkshire Money Management Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $28,000. Independence Bank of Kentucky acquired a new stake in Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF in the second quarter valued at $33,000. Resources Management Corp CT ADV bought a new position in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF in the 1st quarter valued at about $44,000. Bogart Wealth LLC increased its stake in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF by 19.2% during the 2nd quarter. Bogart Wealth LLC now owns 964 shares of the companys stock worth $69,000 after purchasing an additional 155 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Adirondack Trust Co. bought a new stake in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF in the 2nd quarter valued at about $77,000.

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Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF Stock Performance

Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF stock opened at $73.45 on Friday. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $73.48 and a 200 day simple moving average of $71.72. The stock has a market capitalization of $14.97 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.36 and a beta of 0.92. Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF has a 52 week low of $57.67 and a 52 week high of $75.03.

Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF Profile

The Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF (SPHQ) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the S&P 500 Quality index. The fund tracks an index of US large-cap stocks selected by return on equity, changes in net operating assets and financial leverage. Stocks are weighted by these quality factors, scaled by market cap.

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Wells Fargo & Company upgraded shares of KBR (NYSE:KBR  Free Report) to a hold rating in a research note released on Thursday morning,Zacks.com reports.

Several other research firms have also recently issued reports on KBR. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c-) rating on shares of KBR in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Bank of America reduced their price target on KBR from $55.00 to $45.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday. Citigroup dropped their target price on KBR from $62.00 to $57.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Truist Financial set a $62.00 target price on shares of KBR in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Finally, DA Davidson reduced their price objective on KBR from $72.00 to $65.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, August 1st. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and seven have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, KBR has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $59.00.

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KBR Stock Down 0.5%

NYSE:KBR traded down $0.23 during mid-day trading on Thursday, hitting $42.03. The stock had a trading volume of 841,156 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,466,353. The company has a current ratio of 1.13, a quick ratio of 1.13 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.73. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $45.50 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $48.70. The company has a market capitalization of $5.34 billion, a PE ratio of 15.23, a PEG ratio of 0.85 and a beta of 0.68. KBR has a twelve month low of $40.71 and a twelve month high of $62.14.

KBR (NYSE:KBR  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The construction company reported $1.02 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.95 by $0.07. KBR had a net margin of 4.52% and a return on equity of 33.65%. The company had revenue of $525.00 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.99 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $0.84 earnings per share. The firms revenue was down .3% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that KBR will post 3.26 EPS for the current year.

KBR Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 15th. Stockholders of record on Monday, December 15th will be given a $0.165 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, December 15th. This represents a $0.66 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.6%. KBRs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 22.68%.

Institutional Trading of KBR

Hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Hantz Financial Services Inc. lifted its stake in shares of KBR by 207.8% in the third quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 594 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $28,000 after buying an additional 401 shares during the period. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of KBR by 432.5% during the 2nd quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 607 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 493 shares in the last quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. raised its position in KBR by 75.8% in the second quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 617 shares of the construction companys stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 266 shares in the last quarter. Byrne Asset Management LLC bought a new position in KBR during the second quarter worth about $41,000. Finally, GAMMA Investing LLC lifted its stake in KBR by 37.5% during the second quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 1,093 shares of the construction companys stock worth $52,000 after purchasing an additional 298 shares during the period. 97.02% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

KBR Company Profile

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KBR, Inc provides scientific, technology, and engineering solutions to governments and commercial customers worldwide. It operates through Government Solutions and Sustainable Technology Solutions segments. The Government Solutions segment offers life-cycle support solutions to defense, intelligence, space, aviation, and other programs and missions for military and other government agencies in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

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Kilroy Realty (NYSE:KRC  Free Report) had its price target decreased by Evercore ISI from $47.00 to $46.00 in a research note issued to investors on Friday, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Evercore ISI currently has an in-line rating on the real estate investment trusts stock.

A number of other analysts have also issued reports on the company. Jefferies Financial Group raised Kilroy Realty from a hold rating to a buy rating and boosted their target price for the company from $33.00 to $45.00 in a research report on Monday, October 13th. Scotiabank upgraded Kilroy Realty from a sector underperform rating to a sector perform rating and boosted their price objective for the company from $40.00 to $47.00 in a report on Wednesday, September 17th. Barclays restated an equal weight rating and set a $43.00 target price on shares of Kilroy Realty in a report on Thursday, September 4th. Royal Bank Of Canada boosted their price target on shares of Kilroy Realty from $39.00 to $40.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research note on Thursday, August 7th. Finally, Zacks Research raised shares of Kilroy Realty to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, August 8th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, nine have assigned a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Kilroy Realty has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $41.17.

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Kilroy Realty Trading Down 2.0%

Shares of NYSE:KRC traded down $0.83 during midday trading on Friday, reaching $40.82. 1,031,424 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,482,946. The stock has a market cap of $4.83 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.06 and a beta of 1.22. Kilroy Realty has a fifty-two week low of $27.07 and a fifty-two week high of $45.03. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $42.11 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $37.96. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.81, a current ratio of 2.56 and a quick ratio of 2.35.

Kilroy Realty (NYSE:KRC  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Monday, October 27th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.09 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.00 by $0.09. The company had revenue of $279.74 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $271.24 million. Kilroy Realty had a net margin of 28.68% and a return on equity of 5.75%. Kilroy Realtys revenue was down 3.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $1.17 earnings per share. Kilroy Realty has set its FY 2025 guidance at 4.180-4.240 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Kilroy Realty will post 4 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Kilroy Realty Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 8th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, September 30th were given a dividend of $0.54 per share. This represents a $2.16 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.3%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, September 30th. Kilroy Realtys payout ratio is 79.70%.

Institutional Trading of Kilroy Realty

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Schonfeld Strategic Advisors LLC grew its holdings in shares of Kilroy Realty by 4,656.4% during the third quarter. Schonfeld Strategic Advisors LLC now owns 547,035 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $23,112,000 after purchasing an additional 535,534 shares during the last quarter. Creative Planning lifted its position in Kilroy Realty by 52.5% during the 3rd quarter. Creative Planning now owns 51,833 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $2,190,000 after buying an additional 17,842 shares in the last quarter. FJ Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in Kilroy Realty during the 3rd quarter worth about $232,000. SummitTX Capital L.P. raised its stake in shares of Kilroy Realty by 47.7% in the third quarter. SummitTX Capital L.P. now owns 32,282 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,364,000 after acquiring an additional 10,425 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Raymond James Financial Inc. lifted its position in shares of Kilroy Realty by 61.8% during the third quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. now owns 5,616 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $237,000 after purchasing an additional 2,145 shares in the last quarter. 94.22% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Kilroy Realty

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Kilroy Realty Corporation (NYSE: KRC, the company, Kilroy) is a leading U.S. landlord and developer, with operations in San Diego, Greater Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area, Greater Seattle and Austin. The company has earned global recognition for sustainability, building operations, innovation and design.

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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

The record-breaking federal government shutdown marked yet another impediment to scientific research efforts at the Wistar Institute this year.

After a year in which federal research funding was thrown into uncertainty, with funding freezes and canceled grants, the shutdown meant that the National Institutes of Health were not able to review grant proposals from scientists around the country.

The ongoing precarity of federal fundingwith President Donald Trump proposing another round of cuts at the NIH in the next fiscal yearhad Wistar president and CEO Dario Altieri worried about the Philadelphia biomedical research institute's future.

Wistar wasn't significantly impacted by this year's initial research cuts. Still, when the federal government shut down, grant proposals that Wistar scientists expected federal officials to review languished, he said.

"Everything came to a complete stop," he said.

And now, with the shutdown over, Altieri and his counterparts at a statewide coalition of scientific research institutions and advocacy organizations are urging federal lawmakers to commit to funding the NIH as they renew budget talks.

The Pennsylvania Ad Hoc NIH Funding Advocacy Coalition in August urged Pennsylvania representatives on the House Appropriations Committee to vote to give $47.2 billion to the NIH in the forthcoming fiscal year, following the lead of their Senate colleagues.

That move would increase funding for the NIH by $400 millioninstead of cutting it by 40%, as Trump had proposed.

On Thursday, the coalition sent a second letter to Pennsylvania's federal lawmakers, again encouraging them to fund the NIH at that level.

The initial letter's signatories included the University of Pennsylvania and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, along with Wistar and other specialized research centers and advocacy groups.

Penn and CHOP officials did not sign the second letter. In a statement, Penn officials said they had signed other letters supporting increases in NIH funding and continue to engage in "direct advocacy" on the matter.

CHOP said that preserving NIH funding is "critically important" and that its officials and clinicians traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with legislators on the issue last week.

"No matter how we advocate, we always stand with the entire biomedical research community in advocating for funding needed to save lives and cure disease," the hospital said in a statement.

Altieri again signed the latest letter from the ad hoc coalition, joined by officials at the American Association for Cancer Research, the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center, and the University City Science Center, among others. NIH funding is a bipartisan issue for the biomedical research coalition.

"This is not a red state or blue state issue. It's about the health of everyone in the Commonwealth," Altieri said.

He added that scientists across the state have dealt with unprecedented unpredictability over their funding sources this year. "Everyone longs for some level of predictability, of having a norm, an expected outcome of a process that has been going on for decades."

Altieri said he hopes lawmakers will follow the example of area research associations who often collaborate.

"There are so many academic institutions in Pennsylvania that cover so many different aspects of education, training, and research. We really want elected lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to work together like we do," he said.

2025 The Philadelphia Inquirer. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Macro Bank Inc. (NYSE:BMA  Get Free Report) announced a monthly dividend on Friday, November 7th. Investors of record on Monday, November 17th will be paid a dividend of 0.3486 per share by the bank on Monday, November 24th. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.0%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 17th. This is a 14.3% increase from Macro Banks previous monthly dividend of $0.31.

Macro Bank has raised its dividend by an average of 0.2%annually over the last three years. Macro Bank has a payout ratio of 35.6% meaning its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Equities research analysts expect Macro Bank to earn $10.43 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $4.18 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 40.1%.

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Macro Bank Price Performance

BMA stock traded down $0.19 during trading on Friday, hitting $82.96. 563,212 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 478,441. The stock has a market cap of $5.30 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.19, a P/E/G ratio of 1.59 and a beta of 1.57. Macro Bank has a one year low of $38.30 and a one year high of $118.42. The company has a current ratio of 1.13, a quick ratio of 1.13 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $58.89 and a 200 day simple moving average of $69.06.

About Macro Bank

Macro Bank ( NYSE:BMA Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August 27th. The bank reported $1.95 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.99 by ($0.04). The firm had revenue of $834.78 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $752.51 million. Macro Bank had a return on equity of 10.99% and a net margin of 8.32%. Equities analysts expect that Macro Bank will post 7.84 EPS for the current fiscal year.

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Banco Macro SA provides various banking products and services to retail and corporate customers in Argentina. It offers various retail banking products and services, such as savings and checking accounts, time deposits, credit and debit cards, consumer finance loans, mortgage loans, automobile loans, overdrafts, credit-related services, home and car insurance coverage, tax collection, utility payments, automated teller machines, and money transfers.

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Malvern International Plc (LON:MLVN  Get Free Report) traded down 3.8% during trading on Friday . The stock traded as low as GBX 25 and last traded at GBX 25. 160 shares changed hands during trading, a decline of 100% from the average session volume of 77,311 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 26.

Malvern International Stock Down 3.8%

The firm has a market cap of 6.11 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 65.79 and a beta of 0.64. The firm has a 50 day moving average of GBX 21.73 and a 200 day moving average of GBX 19. The company has a quick ratio of 0.50, a current ratio of 0.66 and a debt-to-equity ratio of -69.48.

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Malvern International (LON:MLVN  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, September 30th. The company reported GBX 1.54 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Malvern International had a positive return on equity of 6.64% and a negative net margin of 1.81%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

About Malvern International

In other news, insider Richard Christopher Mace sold 102,508 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, October 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of GBX 20, for a total transaction of 20,501.60. Company insiders own 2.57% of the companys stock.

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Malvern International Plc provides educational services in the United Kingdom. The company operates Malvern House London; Malvern House Brighton; Communicate School in Manchester; Language in Action; and International Study Centres. It also offers English language schools, juniors and summer camps programmes; business and management, accounting and finance, humanities and social sciences, and engineering and science; in-sessional and pre-sessional English programs; and international foundation year and programme, international year one, and international graduate diploma.

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Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA cut its holdings in shares of Kenvue Inc. (NYSE:KVUE  Free Report) by 5.8% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 91,215,505 shares of the companys stock after selling 5,656,226 shares during the period. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MAs holdings in Kenvue were worth $1,909,141,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Evergreen Wealth Solutions LLC lifted its position in shares of Kenvue by 2.6% during the first quarter. Evergreen Wealth Solutions LLC now owns 16,769 shares of the companys stock valued at $402,000 after buying an additional 432 shares during the last quarter. Wealth Alliance LLC boosted its position in shares of Kenvue by 1.6% in the 1st quarter. Wealth Alliance LLC now owns 31,778 shares of the companys stock worth $762,000 after purchasing an additional 486 shares in the last quarter. Everett Harris & Co. CA grew its stake in Kenvue by 1.4% during the 1st quarter. Everett Harris & Co. CA now owns 36,971 shares of the companys stock worth $887,000 after buying an additional 500 shares during the last quarter. Proffitt & Goodson Inc. increased its position in Kenvue by 8.2% during the 2nd quarter. Proffitt & Goodson Inc. now owns 6,831 shares of the companys stock valued at $143,000 after buying an additional 517 shares in the last quarter. Finally, UMB Bank n.a. boosted its holdings in Kenvue by 22.3% in the second quarter. UMB Bank n.a. now owns 2,853 shares of the companys stock worth $60,000 after acquiring an additional 521 shares in the last quarter. 97.64% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Kenvue Price Performance

Kenvue stock opened at $16.68 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.66, a current ratio of 0.98 and a quick ratio of 0.69. The stock has a market capitalization of $31.95 billion, a PE ratio of 22.23, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.45 and a beta of 0.71. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $16.42 and a 200-day simple moving average of $20.08. Kenvue Inc. has a 12 month low of $14.02 and a 12 month high of $25.17.

Kenvue Dividend Announcement

Kenvue ( NYSE:KVUE Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Monday, November 3rd. The company reported $0.28 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.27 by $0.01. Kenvue had a return on equity of 20.02% and a net margin of 9.55%.The firm had revenue of $3.76 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.83 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $0.28 EPS. Kenvues quarterly revenue was down 3.5% on a year-over-year basis. Kenvue has set its FY 2025 guidance at 1.000-1.050 EPS. Equities analysts predict that Kenvue Inc. will post 1.14 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 26th. Investors of record on Wednesday, November 12th will be issued a $0.2075 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, November 12th. This represents a $0.83 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.0%. Kenvues dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 110.67%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

KVUE has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Johnson Rice reaffirmed a neutral rating on shares of Kenvue in a report on Tuesday, October 28th. Rothschild & Co Redburn upgraded shares of Kenvue from a neutral rating to a buy rating and cut their price target for the stock from $22.50 to $22.00 in a report on Friday, September 26th. Edward Jones cut Kenvue from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Citigroup decreased their price target on shares of Kenvue from $20.00 to $17.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, October 9th. Finally, Evercore ISI set a $18.00 target price on shares of Kenvue in a research report on Tuesday, October 28th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have assigned a Buy rating, twelve have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $20.23.

View Our Latest Analysis on KVUE

Kenvue Profile

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Kenvue Inc operates as a consumer health company worldwide. The company operates through three segments: Self Care, Skin Health and Beauty, and Essential Health. The Self Care segment offers cough, cold and allergy, pain care, digestive health, smoking cessation, eye care, and other products under the Tylenol, Motrin, Benadryl, Nicorette, Zarbee's, ORSLTM, Rhinocort, Calpol, and Zyrtec brands.

Further Reading

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Maxus Realty Trust (OTCMKTS:MRTI  Get Free Report) announced its earnings results on Friday. The company reported $0.99 EPS for the quarter, Zacks reports.

Maxus Realty Trust Price Performance

OTCMKTS MRTI remained flat at $59.74 on Friday. Maxus Realty Trust has a 12-month low of $54.00 and a 12-month high of $84.97. The stock has a market cap of $70.97 million, a PE ratio of -29.87 and a beta of 0.12. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $59.58 and its 200 day simple moving average is $57.69.

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Maxus Realty Trust Company Profile

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Maxus Realty Trust, Inc (the Trust), is structured as what is commonly referred to as an umbrella partnership REIT, or UPREIT, structure. To effect the UPREIT restructuring, the Trust formed Maxus Operating Limited Partnership, a Delaware limited partnership (MOLP), to which the Trust contributed all of its assets, in exchange for a 99.999% partnership interest in MOLP and the assumption by MOLP of all of the Trusts liabilities.

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Meridian Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:TFLO  Free Report) by 12.8% during the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 146,845 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 16,688 shares during the period. Meridian Wealth Management LLCs holdings in iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF were worth $7,438,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in TFLO. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC acquired a new position in iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF in the 1st quarter valued at $26,000. Robbins Farley acquired a new stake in iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF in the second quarter valued at about $30,000. Independence Bank of Kentucky purchased a new stake in iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $30,000. GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC increased its position in iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF by 250.2% during the 2nd quarter. GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC now owns 704 shares of the companys stock worth $36,000 after purchasing an additional 503 shares during the period. Finally, Oliver Lagore Vanvalin Investment Group purchased a new position in shares of iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $39,000.

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iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF Stock Up 0.0%

NYSEARCA:TFLO opened at $50.51 on Friday. iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF has a fifty-two week low of $50.36 and a fifty-two week high of $50.69. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $50.51 and its 200-day simple moving average is $50.54.

About iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF

The iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF (TFLO) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in investment grade fixed income. The iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of U.S. Treasury floating rate bonds. TFLO was launched on Feb 3, 2014 and is managed by BlackRock.

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Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp grew its holdings in shares of Ventas, Inc. (NYSE:VTR  Free Report) by 20.4% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 387,790 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after acquiring an additional 65,819 shares during the period. Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp owned about 0.09% of Ventas worth $24,489,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of VTR. Larson Financial Group LLC raised its position in Ventas by 1,334.6% during the 1st quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 373 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $26,000 after purchasing an additional 347 shares during the last quarter. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Ventas in the second quarter valued at about $33,000. Golden State Wealth Management LLC raised its position in shares of Ventas by 52.7% during the second quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC now owns 536 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $34,000 after acquiring an additional 185 shares during the last quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich acquired a new position in shares of Ventas in the first quarter worth approximately $41,000. Finally, Zions Bancorporation National Association UT acquired a new position in shares of Ventas in the first quarter worth approximately $41,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 94.18% of the companys stock.

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Insider Transactions at Ventas

In related news, CFO Robert F. Probst sold 33,591 shares of Ventas stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $76.77, for a total value of $2,578,781.07. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer owned 168,364 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $12,925,304.28. This trade represents a 16.63% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CEO Debra A. Cafaro sold 317,258 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, October 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $74.24, for a total transaction of $23,553,233.92. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 1,145,695 shares of the companys stock, valued at $85,056,396.80. This trade represents a 21.69% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders have sold 652,618 shares of company stock valued at $47,791,654 over the last ninety days. 0.80% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of analysts have weighed in on the stock. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of Ventas in a research report on Thursday. Cantor Fitzgerald increased their price objective on shares of Ventas from $77.00 to $85.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, October 31st. UBS Group started coverage on shares of Ventas in a research note on Friday, September 19th. They set a neutral rating and a $73.00 target price for the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price target on shares of Ventas from $72.00 to $76.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 26th. Finally, Morgan Stanley increased their price target on Ventas from $70.00 to $75.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Friday, August 15th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have assigned a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $77.36.

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Ventas Stock Up 1.0%

Shares of NYSE VTR opened at $78.01 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $36.64 billion, a PE ratio of 150.01, a P/E/G ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 0.88. Ventas, Inc. has a 12-month low of $56.68 and a 12-month high of $78.09. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $70.66 and its 200 day simple moving average is $67.33. The company has a quick ratio of 0.68, a current ratio of 0.68 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.13.

Ventas (NYSE:VTR  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.88 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.87 by $0.01. The firm had revenue of $1.49 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.44 billion. Ventas had a net margin of 4.28% and a return on equity of 2.10%. The businesss revenue was up 20.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.80 earnings per share. Ventas has set its FY 2025 guidance at 3.450-3.480 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Ventas, Inc. will post 3.4 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Ventas Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, October 16th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, September 30th were issued a dividend of $0.48 per share. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 30th. This represents a $1.92 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.5%. Ventass payout ratio is currently 369.23%.

Ventas Profile

(Free Report)

Ventas Inc (NYSE: VTR) is a leading S&P 500 real estate investment trust focused on delivering strong, sustainable shareholder returns by enabling exceptional environments that benefit a large and growing aging population. The Company's growth is fueled by its senior housing communities, which provide valuable services to residents and enable them to thrive in supported environments.

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Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp trimmed its stake in shares of Suncor Energy Inc. (NYSE:SU  Free Report) (TSE:SU) by 1.9% in the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 667,805 shares of the oil and gas producers stock after selling 13,100 shares during the quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp owned approximately 0.05% of Suncor Energy worth $25,032,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Shell Asset Management Co. increased its position in shares of Suncor Energy by 65.8% during the second quarter. Shell Asset Management Co. now owns 103,082 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $3,854,000 after buying an additional 40,892 shares during the period. Focus Partners Wealth lifted its holdings in Suncor Energy by 1.3% in the first quarter. Focus Partners Wealth now owns 796,967 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $30,859,000 after buying an additional 10,514 shares during the period. Canoe Financial LP bought a new stake in Suncor Energy during the second quarter valued at $9,653,000. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC boosted its position in Suncor Energy by 36.3% during the first quarter. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC now owns 944,533 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $36,572,000 after acquiring an additional 251,298 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Mackenzie Financial Corp grew its holdings in Suncor Energy by 18.6% during the 1st quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 15,377,546 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $595,398,000 after acquiring an additional 2,410,857 shares during the period. 67.37% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Suncor Energy Trading Up 1.6%

NYSE SU opened at $44.32 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.77, a current ratio of 1.26 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19. Suncor Energy Inc. has a 52 week low of $30.79 and a 52 week high of $44.70. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $41.13 and a 200-day moving average price of $39.21. The company has a market cap of $53.47 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.64, a P/E/G ratio of 3.52 and a beta of 0.75.

Suncor Energy Increases Dividend

Suncor Energy ( NYSE:SU Get Free Report ) (TSE:SU) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The oil and gas producer reported $1.07 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.85 by $0.22. The company had revenue of $9.04 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.82 billion. Suncor Energy had a return on equity of 13.21% and a net margin of 11.35%.During the same period last year, the business earned $1.48 EPS. As a group, equities analysts expect that Suncor Energy Inc. will post 3.42 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 24th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 3rd will be issued a dividend of $0.60 per share. This is an increase from Suncor Energys previous quarterly dividend of $0.41. This represents a $2.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.4%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 3rd. Suncor Energys dividend payout ratio is 55.74%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several brokerages recently commented on SU. Wells Fargo & Company initiated coverage on Suncor Energy in a research report on Friday, October 17th. They set an equal weight rating on the stock. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued an outperform rating and issued a $65.00 price target on shares of Suncor Energy in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. Raymond James Financial upgraded Suncor Energy from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, November 6th. Zacks Research lowered shares of Suncor Energy from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Suncor Energy in a research report on Thursday. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have assigned a Buy rating, four have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Suncor Energy has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $65.00.

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Suncor Energy Profile

(Free Report)

Suncor Energy Inc operates as an integrated energy company in Canada, the United States, and internationally. It operates through Oil Sands; Exploration and Production; and Refining and Marketing segments. The Oil Sands segment explores, develops, and produces bitumen, synthetic crude oil, and related products.

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Mizuho Financial Group (NYSE:MFG  Get Free Report) issued its earnings results on Friday. The bank reported $0.20 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.17 by $0.03, Zacks reports. Mizuho Financial Group had a return on equity of 8.48% and a net margin of 10.16%.The business had revenue of $5.61 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.74 billion.

Mizuho Financial Group Trading Up 3.8%

MFG traded up $0.26 during trading on Friday, hitting $7.05. 2,559,067 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,702,188. The firm has a market capitalization of $88.04 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.68, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.80 and a beta of 0.34. Mizuho Financial Group has a 12-month low of $4.04 and a 12-month high of $7.11. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.21, a current ratio of 0.96 and a quick ratio of 0.96. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $6.59 and a 200 day moving average of $6.03.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of brokerages have recently weighed in on MFG. Zacks Research lowered shares of Mizuho Financial Group from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, August 25th. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Mizuho Financial Group from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Sunday, August 3rd. Finally, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b+) rating on shares of Mizuho Financial Group in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy.

Institutional Trading of Mizuho Financial Group

A number of institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Brighton Jones LLC increased its holdings in Mizuho Financial Group by 19.3% during the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 12,343 shares of the banks stock valued at $60,000 after purchasing an additional 1,998 shares during the period. AQR Capital Management LLC grew its position in shares of Mizuho Financial Group by 29.3% in the 1st quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 392,998 shares of the banks stock worth $2,165,000 after buying an additional 89,095 shares during the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its stake in shares of Mizuho Financial Group by 0.4% during the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 14,508,417 shares of the banks stock valued at $79,941,000 after buying an additional 57,806 shares during the period. Focus Partners Wealth raised its holdings in shares of Mizuho Financial Group by 129.0% during the first quarter. Focus Partners Wealth now owns 51,966 shares of the banks stock valued at $286,000 after acquiring an additional 29,273 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Acadian Asset Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Mizuho Financial Group by 89.6% during the first quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 13,663 shares of the banks stock valued at $74,000 after acquiring an additional 6,455 shares in the last quarter. 3.26% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Mizuho Financial Group

(Get Free Report)

Mizuho Financial Group, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in banking, trust, securities, and other businesses related to financial services in Japan, the Americas, Europe, Asia/Oceania, and internationally. It operates through Retail & Business Banking Company, Corporate & Institutional Company, Global Corporate Company, Global Markets Company, Asset Management Company, and Others segments.

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MJP Associates Inc. ADV increased its position in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK  Free Report) by 10.0% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 21,631 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,970 shares during the period. MJP Associates Inc. ADVs holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. were worth $1,712,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 0.6% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 252,513,381 shares of the companys stock valued at $22,665,601,000 after acquiring an additional 1,417,274 shares during the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP increased its stake in Merck & Co., Inc. by 1.1% in the first quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 81,669,651 shares of the companys stock valued at $7,330,668,000 after purchasing an additional 927,621 shares during the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. raised its holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. by 144.6% during the first quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 49,229,283 shares of the companys stock worth $4,418,820,000 after purchasing an additional 29,104,112 shares in the last quarter. Amundi lifted its position in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 37.1% during the 1st quarter. Amundi now owns 13,077,716 shares of the companys stock worth $1,130,397,000 after buying an additional 3,542,036 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Nuveen LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. during the 1st quarter worth approximately $991,553,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 76.07% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Merck & Co., Inc.

In related news, EVP David Michael Williams sold 8,614 shares of Merck & Co., Inc. stock in a transaction on Monday, November 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $83.59, for a total value of $720,044.26. Following the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 24,578 shares in the company, valued at $2,054,475.02. This trade represents a 25.95% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. 0.09% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research analysts recently commented on the stock. Morgan Stanley increased their target price on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $98.00 to $100.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Scotiabank assumed coverage on Merck & Co., Inc. in a research report on Thursday. They set a sector outperform rating and a $105.00 target price on the stock. Berenberg Bank cut Merck & Co., Inc. from a buy rating to a hold rating and decreased their target price for the company from $100.00 to $90.00 in a research report on Wednesday, September 17th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company reduced their price objective on Merck & Co., Inc. from $97.00 to $90.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, July 30th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have issued a Buy rating, ten have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $104.50.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on MRK

Merck & Co., Inc. Stock Performance

NYSE MRK opened at $93.00 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.17, a current ratio of 1.42 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69. Merck & Co., Inc. has a 52-week low of $73.31 and a 52-week high of $105.07. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $85.25 and its 200 day moving average price is $82.40. The firm has a market cap of $230.82 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.33, a P/E/G ratio of 0.95 and a beta of 0.34.

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $2.58 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.36 by $0.22. Merck & Co., Inc. had a return on equity of 41.05% and a net margin of 25.79%.The firm had revenue of $17.28 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $17 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $1.57 EPS. The firms revenue was up 3.7% compared to the same quarter last year. Merck & Co., Inc. has set its FY 2025 guidance at 8.930-8.980 EPS. On average, equities research analysts expect that Merck & Co., Inc. will post 9.01 earnings per share for the current year.

Merck & Co., Inc. Company Profile

(Free Report)

Merck & Co, Inc is a health care company, which engages in the provision of health solutions through its prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies, animal health, and consumer care products. It operates through the following segments: Pharmaceutical, Animal Health, and Other. The Pharmaceutical segment includes human health pharmaceutical and vaccine products.

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National Grid Transco, PLC (NYSE:NGG  Get Free Report)s share price reached a new 52-week high during trading on Thursday . The stock traded as high as $78.06 and last traded at $78.0250, with a volume of 828928 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $77.31.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

NGG has been the topic of a number of research analyst reports. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of National Grid Transco in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Zacks Research downgraded shares of National Grid Transco from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, September 1st. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have assigned a Buy rating and five have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, National Grid Transco presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $80.40.

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National Grid Transco Stock Down 0.9%

National Grid Transco Announces Dividend

The firms 50-day moving average price is $74.06 and its 200-day moving average price is $72.42. The company has a quick ratio of 1.30, a current ratio of 1.35 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.13.

The business also recently disclosed a dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, January 13th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 21st will be given a $1.0657 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 21st. This represents a yield of 274.0%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On National Grid Transco

A number of large investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Johnson Financial Group Inc. bought a new stake in shares of National Grid Transco in the 3rd quarter worth about $25,000. Trust Co. of Toledo NA OH bought a new stake in National Grid Transco in the second quarter valued at about $31,000. V Square Quantitative Management LLC bought a new stake in National Grid Transco in the second quarter valued at about $35,000. Salomon & Ludwin LLC lifted its holdings in National Grid Transco by 4,218.2% during the 3rd quarter. Salomon & Ludwin LLC now owns 475 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $35,000 after buying an additional 464 shares during the last quarter. Finally, ESL Trust Services LLC lifted its holdings in National Grid Transco by 71.4% during the 3rd quarter. ESL Trust Services LLC now owns 480 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $35,000 after buying an additional 200 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 4.68% of the companys stock.

About National Grid Transco

(Get Free Report)

National Grid plc transmits and distributes electricity and gas. It operates through UK Electricity Transmission, UK Electricity Distribution, UK Electricity System Operator, New England, New York, National Grid Ventures, and Other segments. The UK Electricity Transmission segment provides electricity transmission and construction work services in England and Wales.

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National Pension Service lifted its stake in shares of FirstEnergy Corporation (NYSE:FE  Free Report) by 0.7% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 860,246 shares of the utilities providers stock after purchasing an additional 6,063 shares during the quarter. National Pension Services holdings in FirstEnergy were worth $34,634,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its holdings in FirstEnergy by 0.5% in the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 66,150,214 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $2,673,792,000 after acquiring an additional 306,313 shares in the last quarter. Boston Partners raised its position in shares of FirstEnergy by 14.9% during the first quarter. Boston Partners now owns 18,962,859 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $767,952,000 after purchasing an additional 2,459,779 shares during the period. Royal Bank of Canada lifted its holdings in shares of FirstEnergy by 2.9% in the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 4,098,769 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $165,674,000 after purchasing an additional 116,825 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. grew its position in FirstEnergy by 0.8% in the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 3,430,753 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $138,671,000 after purchasing an additional 28,683 shares during the period. Finally, UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC increased its stake in FirstEnergy by 0.8% during the 1st quarter. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC now owns 2,664,698 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $107,707,000 after purchasing an additional 21,177 shares in the last quarter. 89.41% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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FirstEnergy Stock Performance

Shares of FirstEnergy stock opened at $45.92 on Friday. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $45.56 and its 200 day simple moving average is $43.12. The company has a current ratio of 0.75, a quick ratio of 0.51 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.80. FirstEnergy Corporation has a 12 month low of $37.58 and a 12 month high of $48.20. The firm has a market capitalization of $26.53 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.05, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.80 and a beta of 0.53.

FirstEnergy Announces Dividend

FirstEnergy ( NYSE:FE Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 22nd. The utilities provider reported $0.83 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.76 by $0.07. The firm had revenue of $4.15 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.94 billion. FirstEnergy had a return on equity of 11.15% and a net margin of 9.19%.The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 10.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $0.85 EPS. FirstEnergy has set its FY 2025 guidance at 2.500-2.560 EPS. As a group, analysts anticipate that FirstEnergy Corporation will post 2.66 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Investors of record on Friday, November 7th will be issued a dividend of $0.445 per share. This represents a $1.78 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.9%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 7th. FirstEnergys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 77.73%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research analysts have weighed in on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company raised shares of FirstEnergy to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. KeyCorp lowered shares of FirstEnergy from an overweight rating to a sector weight rating in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. Mizuho raised their price target on shares of FirstEnergy from $45.00 to $50.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, October 24th. UBS Group boosted their price objective on FirstEnergy from $47.00 to $50.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Friday, October 24th. Finally, Barclays raised FirstEnergy from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and increased their price objective for the stock from $43.00 to $49.00 in a research note on Monday, August 25th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seven have issued a Buy rating and six have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, FirstEnergy presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $49.08.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on FirstEnergy

FirstEnergy Profile

(Free Report)

FirstEnergy Corp., through its subsidiaries, generates, transmits, and distributes electricity in the United States. It operates through Regulated Distribution and Regulated Transmission segments. The company owns and operates coal-fired, nuclear, hydroelectric, wind, and solar power generating facilities.

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NET Power Inc. (NYSE:NPWR  Get Free Report)s share price traded down 11.5% during trading on Thursday . The company traded as low as $2.83 and last traded at $2.9020. 433,631 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 70% from the average session volume of 1,449,553 shares. The stock had previously closed at $3.28.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several brokerages recently weighed in on NPWR. Barclays raised shares of NET Power from an underweight rating to an equal weight rating in a report on Friday. Weiss Ratings restated a sell (d-) rating on shares of NET Power in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, one has given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, NET Power currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $4.00.

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Check Out Our Latest Analysis on NET Power

NET Power Price Performance

The stock has a market capitalization of $617.11 million, a PE ratio of -0.37 and a beta of 0.78. The company has a 50-day moving average of $3.27 and a two-hundred day moving average of $2.72.

NET Power (NYSE:NPWR  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, November 13th. The company reported $5.84 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of ($0.16) by $6.00. On average, research analysts forecast that NET Power Inc. will post -0.4 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, major shareholder Cynda Beauchamp sold 18,116 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, October 31st. The stock was sold at an average price of $4.05, for a total value of $73,369.80. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 1,847,130 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $7,480,876.50. This trade represents a 0.97% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, major shareholder 8 Rivers Capital, Llc sold 8,477 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $4.00, for a total value of $33,908.00. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 1,838,653 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $7,354,612. This trade represents a 0.46% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Over the last 90 days, insiders have sold 2,179,463 shares of company stock valued at $8,639,384. Insiders own 2.10% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of NET Power

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of NPWR. Adage Capital Partners GP L.L.C. increased its position in shares of NET Power by 16.4% in the second quarter. Adage Capital Partners GP L.L.C. now owns 2,840,000 shares of the companys stock worth $7,015,000 after acquiring an additional 400,000 shares in the last quarter. CenterBook Partners LP increased its holdings in NET Power by 1,655.5% in the 1st quarter. CenterBook Partners LP now owns 1,744,770 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,589,000 after purchasing an additional 1,645,380 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC raised its position in NET Power by 21.4% in the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 841,060 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,078,000 after purchasing an additional 148,307 shares during the period. Two Sigma Investments LP lifted its stake in shares of NET Power by 36.7% during the third quarter. Two Sigma Investments LP now owns 821,793 shares of the companys stock worth $2,474,000 after purchasing an additional 220,831 shares in the last quarter. Finally, HITE Hedge Asset Management LLC boosted its position in shares of NET Power by 80.6% in the first quarter. HITE Hedge Asset Management LLC now owns 743,238 shares of the companys stock worth $1,955,000 after buying an additional 331,726 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 53.62% of the companys stock.

About NET Power

(Get Free Report)

NET Power Inc operates as a clean energy technology company. The company invents, develops, and licenses clean power generation technology. NET Power Inc was founded in 2010 and is headquartered in Durham, North Carolina.

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ProShare Advisors LLC decreased its holdings in NVR, Inc. (NYSE:NVR  Free Report) by 22.7% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 507 shares of the construction companys stock after selling 149 shares during the quarter. ProShare Advisors LLCs holdings in NVR were worth $3,745,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Boston Partners grew its holdings in shares of NVR by 14.0% in the 1st quarter. Boston Partners now owns 59,077 shares of the construction companys stock worth $427,962,000 after acquiring an additional 7,233 shares during the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its holdings in shares of NVR by 41.6% during the first quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 52,404 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $379,639,000 after purchasing an additional 15,405 shares during the last quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp boosted its position in shares of NVR by 217,591.3% in the 1st quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 50,069 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $3,758,000 after purchasing an additional 50,046 shares during the period. Livforsakringsbolaget Skandia Omsesidigt boosted its position in shares of NVR by 9,358.6% in the 2nd quarter. Livforsakringsbolaget Skandia Omsesidigt now owns 48,239 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $356,277,000 after purchasing an additional 47,729 shares during the period. Finally, Wellington Management Group LLP increased its stake in NVR by 7.5% in the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 47,995 shares of the construction companys stock worth $347,694,000 after purchasing an additional 3,363 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 83.67% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research firms have recently weighed in on NVR. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their target price on shares of NVR from $7,200.00 to $7,600.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, July 24th. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of NVR from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday. UBS Group boosted their target price on shares of NVR from $8,150.00 to $8,500.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, October 23rd. Bank of America decreased their target price on NVR from $9,100.00 to $9,000.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Friday, October 10th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of NVR in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, NVR has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $8,366.67.

NVR Trading Up 0.2%

Shares of NYSE:NVR opened at $7,267.30 on Friday. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $7,753.02 and a two-hundred day moving average of $7,613.19. The firm has a market capitalization of $20.63 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.95, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 9.94 and a beta of 0.93. NVR, Inc. has a 12-month low of $6,562.85 and a 12-month high of $9,376.75. The company has a quick ratio of 2.97, a current ratio of 5.79 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.24.

NVR (NYSE:NVR  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 22nd. The construction company reported $112.33 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $107.88 by $4.45. The business had revenue of $2.64 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.54 billion. NVR had a net margin of 14.00% and a return on equity of 35.81%. NVRs revenue for the quarter was down 4.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $130.50 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts expect that NVR, Inc. will post 505.2 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Insider Transactions at NVR

In other news, Director Michael J. Devito purchased 14 shares of NVR stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 3rd. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $7,068.05 per share, for a total transaction of $98,952.70. Following the acquisition, the director directly owned 14 shares in the company, valued at $98,952.70. This represents a  increase in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, Director Alexandra A. Jung sold 200 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $8,082.44, for a total value of $1,616,488.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director directly owned 75 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $606,183. The trade was a 72.73% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. 7.00% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

NVR Company Profile

(Free Report)

NVR, Inc operates as a homebuilder in the United States. The company operates through, Homebuilding and Mortgage Banking segments. It engages in the construction and sale of single-family detached homes, townhomes, and condominium buildings under the Ryan Homes, NVHomes, and Heartland Homes names. The company markets its Ryan Homes products to first-time and first-time move-up buyers; and NVHomes and Heartland Homes products to move-up and luxury buyers.

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Olympiad Research LP bought a new position in shares of Global Business Travel Group, Inc. (NYSE:GBTG  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor bought 19,270 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $121,000.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of GBTG. Quarry LP acquired a new stake in Global Business Travel Group in the 1st quarter valued at about $26,000. Federated Hermes Inc. purchased a new stake in Global Business Travel Group in the first quarter valued at approximately $27,000. Neo Ivy Capital Management acquired a new position in Global Business Travel Group during the first quarter worth approximately $29,000. CWM LLC raised its stake in Global Business Travel Group by 262.6% during the second quarter. CWM LLC now owns 6,298 shares of the companys stock worth $40,000 after purchasing an additional 4,561 shares during the period. Finally, Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ grew its stake in shares of Global Business Travel Group by 311.8% during the 1st quarter. Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ now owns 11,373 shares of the companys stock valued at $83,000 after buying an additional 8,611 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 82.46% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities research analysts have commented on GBTG shares. Wall Street Zen lowered Global Business Travel Group from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, July 26th. UBS Group raised their target price on Global Business Travel Group from $10.00 to $11.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, August 6th. Zacks Research lowered Global Business Travel Group from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research note on Wednesday. BTIG Research boosted their target price on Global Business Travel Group from $8.00 to $10.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 27th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a sell (d-) rating on shares of Global Business Travel Group in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, one has given a Hold rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Global Business Travel Group currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $9.67.

Global Business Travel Group Trading Up 0.3%

NYSE GBTG opened at $7.20 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.89, a quick ratio of 1.66 and a current ratio of 1.23. The stock has a market cap of $3.45 billion, a P/E ratio of 359.75 and a beta of 0.73. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $7.96 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $7.16. Global Business Travel Group, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $5.78 and a fifty-two week high of $9.60.

Global Business Travel Group (NYSE:GBTG  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Monday, November 10th. The company reported ($0.07) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.02 by ($0.09). Global Business Travel Group had a return on equity of 3.52% and a net margin of 0.40%.The business had revenue of $674.00 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $615.39 million. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 12.9% on a year-over-year basis. Global Business Travel Group has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. On average, analysts forecast that Global Business Travel Group, Inc. will post -0.17 earnings per share for the current year.

Global Business Travel Group Profile

(Free Report)

Global Business Travel Group, Inc provides business-to-business (B2B) travel platform in the United States and internationally. The company's platform offers a suite of technology-enabled solutions to business travelers and clients; travel content suppliers, such as airlines, hotels, ground transportation, and aggregators; and third-party travel agencies.

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Omega Healthcare Investors (NYSE:OHI  Free Report) had its price target upped by Scotiabank from $42.00 to $45.00 in a research note published on Thursday,Benzinga reports. They currently have a sector perform rating on the real estate investment trusts stock.

Several other brokerages have also recently weighed in on OHI. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of Omega Healthcare Investors in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Cantor Fitzgerald assumed coverage on shares of Omega Healthcare Investors in a research report on Wednesday, October 1st. They set an overweight rating and a $50.00 price objective for the company. Citigroup reiterated a buy rating and set a $50.00 price objective (up previously from $45.00) on shares of Omega Healthcare Investors in a research note on Wednesday. Raymond James Financial reissued an outperform rating on shares of Omega Healthcare Investors in a research report on Tuesday, September 2nd. Finally, Mizuho lifted their price objective on shares of Omega Healthcare Investors from $37.00 to $40.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, September 11th. Six analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Omega Healthcare Investors has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $45.38.

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Omega Healthcare Investors Stock Performance

Shares of OHI traded up $0.44 during mid-day trading on Thursday, hitting $43.89. The stock had a trading volume of 1,938,221 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,229,928. The company has a market cap of $12.97 billion, a PE ratio of 27.09, a PEG ratio of 1.85 and a beta of 0.69. Omega Healthcare Investors has a fifty-two week low of $35.04 and a fifty-two week high of $44.40. The company has a quick ratio of 7.10, a current ratio of 7.10 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.96. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $41.63 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $39.47.

Omega Healthcare Investors (NYSE:OHI  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.79 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.77 by $0.02. Omega Healthcare Investors had a return on equity of 9.78% and a net margin of 42.23%.The business had revenue of $311.59 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $262.48 million. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $0.71 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 14.4% on a year-over-year basis. Omega Healthcare Investors has set its FY 2025 guidance at 3.080-3.100 EPS. On average, equities analysts expect that Omega Healthcare Investors will post 2.86 earnings per share for the current year.

Omega Healthcare Investors Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, November 17th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 3rd will be issued a dividend of $0.67 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 3rd. This represents a $2.68 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.1%. Omega Healthcare Investorss payout ratio is presently 149.72%.

Insider Activity

In other news, CEO C Taylor Pickett bought 20,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 5th. The shares were purchased at an average price of $43.14 per share, for a total transaction of $862,800.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the chief executive officer owned 20,000 shares in the company, valued at approximately $862,800. This represents a  increase in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, CIO Vikas Gupta purchased 11,500 shares of Omega Healthcare Investors stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 6th. The stock was bought at an average price of $42.97 per share, with a total value of $494,155.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the executive directly owned 13,773 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $591,825.81. This trade represents a 505.94% increase in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this purchase are available in the official SEC disclosure. Corporate insiders own 1.50% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Omega Healthcare Investors

Institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Creative Planning increased its position in shares of Omega Healthcare Investors by 66.5% during the 3rd quarter. Creative Planning now owns 93,656 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $3,954,000 after purchasing an additional 37,402 shares during the last quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC grew its holdings in Omega Healthcare Investors by 19.9% in the third quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 337,142 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $14,234,000 after purchasing an additional 55,936 shares during the last quarter. Credit Agricole S A acquired a new stake in Omega Healthcare Investors in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $6,297,000. Raymond James Financial Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Omega Healthcare Investors by 5.6% during the third quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. now owns 599,603 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $25,315,000 after purchasing an additional 31,714 shares during the period. Finally, California State Teachers Retirement System grew its position in Omega Healthcare Investors by 6.4% during the 3rd quarter. California State Teachers Retirement System now owns 274,501 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $11,589,000 after purchasing an additional 16,511 shares during the period. 65.25% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Omega Healthcare Investors

(Get Free Report)

Omega Healthcare Investors, Inc engages in the provision of financing and capital to the long-term healthcare industry with a particular focus on skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, independent living facilities, rehabilitation and acute care facilities, and medical office buildings.

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Opinicus Capital Inc. trimmed its holdings in The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW  Free Report) by 11.8% during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm owned 4,597 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 613 shares during the period. Opinicus Capital Inc.s holdings in Charles Schwab were worth $419,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC bought a new position in Charles Schwab during the 2nd quarter valued at $25,000. RMG Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Charles Schwab in the 2nd quarter valued at about $27,000. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC lifted its position in shares of Charles Schwab by 97.9% during the first quarter. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC now owns 386 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 191 shares during the last quarter. Stone House Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in Charles Schwab in the first quarter worth about $31,000. Finally, Activest Wealth Management increased its holdings in Charles Schwab by 6,650.0% in the first quarter. Activest Wealth Management now owns 405 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $32,000 after buying an additional 399 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 84.38% of the companys stock.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, insider Jonathan S. Beatty sold 3,072 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $98.00, for a total value of $301,056.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider directly owned 11,923 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,168,454. This represents a 20.49% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, General Counsel Peter J. Morgan III sold 50,016 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, August 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $97.00, for a total transaction of $4,851,552.00. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. In the last three months, insiders have sold 68,938 shares of company stock worth $6,671,953. 6.30% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research firms have commented on SCHW. Cowen reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Charles Schwab in a report on Friday, October 17th. Piper Sandler restated a neutral rating on shares of Charles Schwab in a research note on Tuesday, October 14th. Truist Financial boosted their target price on shares of Charles Schwab from $112.00 to $113.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Morgan Stanley raised their price target on shares of Charles Schwab from $130.00 to $139.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company set a $102.00 price objective on shares of Charles Schwab and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, July 18th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, sixteen have given a Buy rating, five have given a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $106.45.

Check Out Our Latest Report on Charles Schwab

Charles Schwab Stock Performance

Shares of SCHW stock opened at $94.37 on Friday. The Charles Schwab Corporation has a 12-month low of $65.88 and a 12-month high of $99.59. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a current ratio of 0.55 and a quick ratio of 0.55. The firm has a market capitalization of $167.70 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.10, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.85 and a beta of 1.02. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $94.06 and a 200 day simple moving average of $92.35.

Charles Schwab (NYSE:SCHW  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 16th. The financial services provider reported $1.31 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.25 by $0.06. The company had revenue of $6.38 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.93 billion. Charles Schwab had a return on equity of 21.26% and a net margin of 35.93%.The firms quarterly revenue was up 26.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $0.71 EPS. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that The Charles Schwab Corporation will post 4.22 EPS for the current year.

Charles Schwab announced that its Board of Directors has authorized a stock buyback plan on Thursday, July 24th that permits the company to repurchase $20.00 billion in shares. This repurchase authorization permits the financial services provider to reacquire up to 11.6% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase plans are usually an indication that the companys leadership believes its stock is undervalued.

Charles Schwab Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 28th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be given a dividend of $0.27 per share. This represents a $1.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.1%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 14th. Charles Schwabs payout ratio is 25.29%.

About Charles Schwab

(Free Report)

The Charles Schwab Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a savings and loan holding company that provides wealth management, securities brokerage, banking, asset management, custody, and financial advisory services in the United States and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Investor Services and Advisor Services.

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OUTFRONT Media Inc. (NYSE:OUT  Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high on Thursday after JPMorgan Chase & Co. upgraded the stock from a neutral rating to an overweight rating. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now has a $25.00 price target on the stock, up from their previous price target of $19.00. OUTFRONT Media traded as high as $21.88 and last traded at $21.4230, with a volume of 3077267 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $20.97.

OUT has been the subject of several other reports. Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on OUTFRONT Media from $19.00 to $20.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Monday, November 10th. Citigroup restated a buy rating and issued a $23.00 price target (up from $20.00) on shares of OUTFRONT Media in a research report on Wednesday. Wells Fargo & Company reiterated an overweight rating on shares of OUTFRONT Media in a research report on Sunday, July 20th. Cowen upgraded shares of OUTFRONT Media from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Tuesday. Finally, TD Cowen raised shares of OUTFRONT Media from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $24.00 price target for the company in a research note on Tuesday. Six analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $22.00.

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Read Our Latest Analysis on OUT

Insider Transactions at OUTFRONT Media

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

In related news, EVP Mark Emilio Bonanni sold 4,126 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $19.38, for a total value of $79,961.88. Following the transaction, the executive vice president owned 4,170 shares of the companys stock, valued at $80,814.60. This trade represents a 49.73% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website . Also, major shareholder Pep Viii Gp Llc sold 8,400,000 shares of OUTFRONT Media stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, September 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $18.06, for a total transaction of $151,704,000.00. Following the sale, the insider owned 8,913,813 shares of the companys stock, valued at $160,983,462.78. The trade was a 48.52% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure . Corporate insiders own 0.47% of the companys stock.

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Invesco Ltd. raised its position in OUTFRONT Media by 7.6% during the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 7,836,183 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $126,476,000 after purchasing an additional 555,568 shares in the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its stake in shares of OUTFRONT Media by 9.9% during the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 4,980,994 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $80,393,000 after buying an additional 448,993 shares during the period. Wellington Management Group LLP raised its holdings in shares of OUTFRONT Media by 15.3% in the third quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 3,973,868 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $72,801,000 after acquiring an additional 527,258 shares in the last quarter. Lasalle Investment Management Securities LLC lifted its stake in OUTFRONT Media by 24.0% in the second quarter. Lasalle Investment Management Securities LLC now owns 3,925,402 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $64,063,000 after acquiring an additional 758,952 shares during the period. Finally, Qube Research & Technologies Ltd grew its holdings in OUTFRONT Media by 10.5% during the 2nd quarter. Qube Research & Technologies Ltd now owns 2,888,621 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $47,142,000 after acquiring an additional 275,023 shares in the last quarter.

OUTFRONT Media Trading Up 1.6%

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.75, a quick ratio of 0.61 and a current ratio of 0.79. The company has a market capitalization of $3.69 billion, a P/E ratio of 32.42, a PEG ratio of 1.27 and a beta of 1.82. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $18.46 and its 200-day simple moving average is $17.54.

OUTFRONT Media (NYSE:OUT  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The financial services provider reported $0.29 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.50 by ($0.21). The business had revenue of $467.50 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $458.32 million. OUTFRONT Media had a return on equity of 21.56% and a net margin of 6.86%.OUTFRONT Medias revenue for the quarter was up 3.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $0.19 EPS. Research analysts predict that OUTFRONT Media Inc. will post 1.59 earnings per share for the current year.

OUTFRONT Media Dividend Announcement

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Shareholders of record on Friday, December 5th will be given a dividend of $0.30 per share. This represents a $1.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.4%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, December 5th. OUTFRONT Medias dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 176.47%.

OUTFRONT Media Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

OUTFRONT Media, Inc leases advertising space on out-of-home advertising structures and sites. Its inventory consists of billboard displays, which are primarily located on the most heavily traveled highways & roadways, and transit advertising displays operated under exclusive multi-year contracts with municipalities in large cities across the U.S.

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Perusahaan Perseroan (Persero) PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia Tbk (OTCMKTS:TLKMF  Get Free Report) shot up 10.9% on Friday . The stock traded as high as C$0.21 and last traded at C$0.21. 1,815 shares changed hands during trading, a decline of 88% from the average session volume of 15,056 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.19.

Perusahaan Perseroan (Persero) PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia Tbk Stock Up 10.9%

The business has a 50 day simple moving average of C$0.19 and a 200-day simple moving average of C$0.17.

About Perusahaan Perseroan (Persero) PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia Tbk

(Get Free Report)

Perusahaan Perseroan (Persero) PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia Tbk provides information and communications technology, and telecommunications network services worldwide. The company operates through mobile, consumer, enterprise, Wholesale and International Business, and Other segments. The Mobile segment offers mobile voice, SMS, value added services, and mobile broadband services.

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Scotiabank began coverage on shares of Pfizer (NYSE:PFE  Free Report) in a research report sent to investors on Thursday, MarketBeat Ratings reports. The brokerage issued a sector outperform rating and a $30.00 target price on the biopharmaceutical companys stock.

A number of other equities research analysts have also recently weighed in on PFE. Wall Street Zen cut shares of Pfizer from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Sunday, September 28th. The Goldman Sachs Group restated a neutral rating and set a $26.00 price target on shares of Pfizer in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. Sanford C. Bernstein reiterated a market perform rating and set a $30.00 price objective on shares of Pfizer in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Bank of America upped their target price on Pfizer from $28.00 to $30.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, October 3rd. Finally, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of Pfizer in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have given a Buy rating, twelve have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $28.28.

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View Our Latest Stock Analysis on PFE

Pfizer Stock Performance

Shares of Pfizer stock traded down $0.72 during trading on Thursday, hitting $25.08. 96,420,538 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 51,206,027. The stock has a market cap of $142.57 billion, a PE ratio of 13.34, a P/E/G ratio of 0.81 and a beta of 0.54. The stocks fifty day moving average is $24.79 and its 200 day moving average is $24.43. Pfizer has a 12 month low of $20.92 and a 12 month high of $27.69. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.65, a quick ratio of 0.85 and a current ratio of 1.16.

Pfizer (NYSE:PFE  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.87 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.79 by $0.08. The company had revenue of $16.65 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $16.94 billion. Pfizer had a net margin of 16.84% and a return on equity of 21.42%. Pfizer has set its FY 2025 guidance at 3.000-3.150 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Pfizer will post 2.95 EPS for the current year.

Pfizer Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 7th will be issued a dividend of $0.43 per share. This represents a $1.72 annualized dividend and a yield of 6.9%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 7th. Pfizers payout ratio is presently 100.00%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Pfizer

A number of large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Norges Bank purchased a new position in shares of Pfizer during the second quarter valued at $2,270,157,000. Pacer Advisors Inc. grew its stake in Pfizer by 856.8% during the 1st quarter. Pacer Advisors Inc. now owns 20,053,828 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $508,164,000 after acquiring an additional 17,957,928 shares in the last quarter. Amundi increased its holdings in shares of Pfizer by 43.4% in the 1st quarter. Amundi now owns 52,090,403 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,265,277,000 after purchasing an additional 15,758,846 shares during the period. Nuveen LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Pfizer in the first quarter worth approximately $389,861,000. Finally, Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Pfizer by 1.9% during the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 533,363,457 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $12,928,730,000 after purchasing an additional 10,198,330 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 68.36% of the companys stock.

Pfizer Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, Zavzpret, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Abrysvo, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands.

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ProVise Management Group LLC lessened its position in Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) by 2.6% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 143,084 shares of the companys stock after selling 3,885 shares during the period. Philip Morris International makes up 2.1% of ProVise Management Group LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 14th largest holding. ProVise Management Group LLCs holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $26,060,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in PM. WCM Investment Management LLC lifted its position in Philip Morris International by 24,968.0% in the second quarter. WCM Investment Management LLC now owns 11,275,606 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,041,223,000 after purchasing an additional 11,230,626 shares during the period. Nuveen LLC acquired a new position in Philip Morris International during the 1st quarter worth approximately $1,712,994,000. Wellington Management Group LLP raised its stake in shares of Philip Morris International by 26.4% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 21,840,422 shares of the companys stock worth $3,466,730,000 after buying an additional 4,563,632 shares in the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 57.5% in the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 9,794,530 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,554,686,000 after buying an additional 3,575,158 shares during the period. Finally, AQR Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of Philip Morris International by 111.1% in the first quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 3,002,216 shares of the companys stock valued at $473,660,000 after buying an additional 1,580,368 shares in the last quarter. 78.63% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Philip Morris International Trading Up 0.1%

NYSE:PM opened at $155.35 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $241.83 billion, a P/E ratio of 28.14, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.25 and a beta of 0.43. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $157.45 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $167.90. Philip Morris International Inc. has a twelve month low of $116.12 and a twelve month high of $186.69.

Philip Morris International Increases Dividend

Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, March 28th. The company reported $1.59 EPS for the quarter. Philip Morris International had a net margin of 9.33% and a negative return on equity of 122.14%. The business had revenue of $8.12 billion for the quarter. On average, equities research analysts predict that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 7.14 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 20th. Shareholders of record on Friday, October 3rd were given a dividend of $1.47 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 3rd. This is a positive change from Philip Morris Internationals previous quarterly dividend of $1.35. This represents a $5.88 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.8%. Philip Morris Internationals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 106.52%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

PM has been the subject of several research analyst reports. The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a buy rating on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Morgan Stanley set a $175.00 price target on shares of Philip Morris International and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Philip Morris International from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Sunday, November 9th. Citigroup reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Philip Morris International in a report on Thursday, September 4th. Finally, Barclays decreased their price target on Philip Morris International from $225.00 to $220.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, July 30th. Twelve research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $194.00.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Philip Morris International

Philip Morris International Company Profile

(Free Report)

Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products primarily under the IQOS and ZYN brands; and consumer accessories, such as lighters and matches.

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In yet another shocking case of civic apathy and alleged official connivance, a narrow house galli in the heart of Colaba Causeway was reportedly encroached upon once againthis time to resurrect the controversial Akbar Plaza, despite multiple demolition drives, court orders, and repeated warnings about fire safety hazards.

A contempt petition was filed in the Bombay High Court after the common passage between two residential buildings was allegedly re-encroached to erect commercial structures named Akbar Plaza, in alleged connivance with civic officials.

The obstruction on the common passagewhich should remain open for any emergency evacuation, including fire incidentsis posing a serious threat to public safety, said petitioner Anil Dhakad, Manager and Assistant Director of The Provident Investment Company Limited (PICL), a Government of Madhya Pradesh undertaking. PICL is the leaseholder of the property owned by the Mumbai Port Authority.

We have been the lessee since 1938. The same house galli was encroached by Akbar Plaza around ten years ago. After a series of follow-ups with the BMC and the police, the unauthorised commercial structures - including illegal stalls and flooringwere partially demolished in FebruaryMarch 2016, Dhakad said.

Subsequently, the owner of Akbar Plaza approached the SC seeking relief, but the apex court upheld the action. The civic body continued the demolition drive in January 2017 and again in 2018. However, despite this, the encroachers repeatedly reoccupied the common passage, he added.

Since the house galli was once again occupied, the Mumbai Port Authority issued notices to both PICL and the BMC. Dhakad said PICL wrote to the BMC in April 2018 requesting permission to install an iron gate to prevent re-encroachment but received no response. In June 2018, the Government of Madhya Pradesh also urged the BMC to permanently evict the encroachers, but nothing happened as such, he said.

In July 2025, PICL issued a notice to Akbar Plaza and the BMC for wilful disobedience of court orders and failure to remove the encroachment. After receiving a legal notice, now the BMC woke up and sent a notice to Akbar Plaza. Using the civic notice as a weapon to shield the unauthorised constructions, the Akbar Plaza owner reached court to seek relief, Dhakad said, calling it their modus operandi to keep matters sub judice.

It is the moral responsibility of the Maharashtra state government to help us fight this menace. But despite repeated requests, the babus in the municipal corporation are not ready to help, he said. There are around six to seven shops inside Akbar Plaza. We have sent them notice and asked for documents within 15 days. Action will be taken if their documents are not found valid, Assistant Municipal Commissioner Jaydeep More said.

As of date, no notice has been issued to me by the Court in the said matter, and the petition is therefore sub-judice at the admission stage. The allegations in the petition are baseless, and appear to have been concocted with malicious intent. I reserve my right to take appropriate legal action against the petitioner for defamation and malicious prosecution at the appropriate stage, said Mohammed Ismail Shaikh from Akbar Plaza. When asked why the HC previously ordered the demolition of the encroachment, Shaikh did not respond till press time.


Pinnbrook Capital Management LP lifted its stake in shares of Spotify Technology (NYSE:SPOT  Free Report) by 96.9% during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 8,318 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 4,094 shares during the quarter. Pinnbrook Capital Management LPs holdings in Spotify Technology were worth $6,383,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Sapient Capital LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Spotify Technology in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $322,000. Legacy Capital Group California Inc. raised its stake in Spotify Technology by 110.9% in the second quarter. Legacy Capital Group California Inc. now owns 3,896 shares of the companys stock worth $2,990,000 after buying an additional 2,049 shares in the last quarter. Swedbank AB raised its stake in Spotify Technology by 1.4% in the first quarter. Swedbank AB now owns 959,587 shares of the companys stock worth $527,802,000 after buying an additional 13,458 shares in the last quarter. Harbor Investment Advisory LLC lifted its holdings in Spotify Technology by 36.0% during the second quarter. Harbor Investment Advisory LLC now owns 2,054 shares of the companys stock worth $1,576,000 after buying an additional 544 shares during the period. Finally, Integrated Wealth Concepts LLC boosted its position in Spotify Technology by 39.8% during the 1st quarter. Integrated Wealth Concepts LLC now owns 2,702 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,486,000 after acquiring an additional 769 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 84.09% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research firms have recently commented on SPOT. Citigroup boosted their price target on Spotify Technology from $715.00 to $750.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 9th. DZ Bank upgraded shares of Spotify Technology from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Tuesday, November 4th. Benchmark raised their price target on shares of Spotify Technology from $800.00 to $860.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, November 5th. Argus started coverage on shares of Spotify Technology in a research report on Monday, September 29th. They issued a buy rating and a $845.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on shares of Spotify Technology from $740.00 to $750.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 29th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twenty-two have assigned a Buy rating and eight have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $758.86.

Spotify Technology Trading Down 1.7%

NYSE:SPOT opened at $634.57 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $130.65 billion, a P/E ratio of 99.78, a PEG ratio of 2.13 and a beta of 1.67. Spotify Technology has a 12 month low of $443.21 and a 12 month high of $785.00. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $679.23 and a 200-day simple moving average of $683.57.

Spotify Technology (NYSE:SPOT  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The company reported $3.83 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.87 by $1.96. The firm had revenue of $5.02 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.23 billion. Spotify Technology had a return on equity of 21.68% and a net margin of 8.46%.The firms revenue was up 7.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $1.45 EPS. Spotify Technology has set its Q4 2025 guidance at EPS. Equities analysts forecast that Spotify Technology will post 10.3 EPS for the current year.

About Spotify Technology

(Free Report)

Spotify Technology SA, together with its subsidiaries, provides audio streaming subscription services worldwide. It operates through two segments, Premium and Ad-Supported. The Premium segment offers unlimited online and offline streaming access to its catalog of music and podcasts without commercial breaks to its subscribers.

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Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey grew its holdings in Everest Group, Ltd. (NYSE:EG  Free Report) by 3.8% during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund owned 16,080 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 592 shares during the period. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jerseys holdings in Everest Group were worth $5,465,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. SVB Wealth LLC purchased a new position in Everest Group in the first quarter valued at approximately $30,000. Zions Bancorporation National Association UT acquired a new position in shares of Everest Group in the 1st quarter valued at $34,000. Board of the Pension Protection Fund purchased a new position in shares of Everest Group in the 2nd quarter valued at $34,000. WPG Advisers LLC purchased a new position in shares of Everest Group in the 1st quarter valued at $37,000. Finally, Allworth Financial LP raised its stake in Everest Group by 96.8% during the 2nd quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 183 shares of the companys stock worth $62,000 after acquiring an additional 90 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 92.64% of the companys stock.

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Everest Group Stock Down 0.4%

EG stock opened at $326.11 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $13.69 billion, a PE ratio of 24.84, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.25 and a beta of 0.47. The company has a fifty day moving average of $339.11 and a 200-day moving average of $339.28. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.24, a quick ratio of 0.38 and a current ratio of 0.38. Everest Group, Ltd. has a one year low of $302.44 and a one year high of $392.78.

Everest Group Announces Dividend

Everest Group ( NYSE:EG Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, October 27th. The company reported $7.54 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $13.39 by ($5.85). Everest Group had a return on equity of 3.81% and a net margin of 3.12%.The firm had revenue of $4.32 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.86 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $11.80 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up .8% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, analysts expect that Everest Group, Ltd. will post 47.93 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 12th. Investors of record on Wednesday, November 26th will be issued a dividend of $2.00 per share. This represents a $8.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.5%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, November 26th. Everest Groups dividend payout ratio is currently 60.93%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Everest Group

In related news, Director William F. Galtney, Jr. purchased 11,385 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, October 29th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $307.38 per share, for a total transaction of $3,499,521.30. Following the acquisition, the director directly owned 45,491 shares of the companys stock, valued at $13,983,023.58. This trade represents a 33.38% increase in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, Director Allan Levine acquired 3,100 shares of Everest Group stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 29th. The stock was bought at an average price of $306.08 per share, with a total value of $948,848.00. Following the purchase, the director directly owned 4,153 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,271,150.24. This trade represents a 294.40% increase in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this purchase is available in the SEC filing. Corporate insiders own 1.10% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

EG has been the subject of several research analyst reports. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their price objective on shares of Everest Group from $383.00 to $343.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Evercore ISI upped their target price on Everest Group from $380.00 to $384.00 and gave the company an in-line rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 1st. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reduced their price objective on Everest Group from $424.00 to $400.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Citigroup initiated coverage on shares of Everest Group in a research report on Wednesday, August 13th. They issued a neutral rating and a $362.00 price target for the company. Finally, Barclays decreased their target price on shares of Everest Group from $425.00 to $365.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and eleven have given a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $372.36.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on EG

About Everest Group

(Free Report)

Everest Group, Ltd., through its subsidiaries, provides reinsurance and insurance products in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company operates through two segment, Insurance and Reinsurance. The Reinsurance segment writes property and casualty reinsurance; and specialty lines of business through reinsurance brokers, as well as directly with ceding companies in the United States, Bermuda, Ireland, Canada, Singapore, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

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Savant Capital LLC cut its holdings in Invesco Ltd. (NYSE:IVZ  Free Report) by 69.8% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 45,325 shares of the asset managers stock after selling 104,911 shares during the quarter. Savant Capital LLCs holdings in Invesco were worth $715,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in IVZ. New York State Common Retirement Fund grew its holdings in shares of Invesco by 11.6% in the first quarter. New York State Common Retirement Fund now owns 258,990 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $3,929,000 after acquiring an additional 27,000 shares in the last quarter. CWM LLC raised its holdings in shares of Invesco by 0.5% in the 1st quarter. CWM LLC now owns 163,434 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $2,479,000 after acquiring an additional 862 shares in the last quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. lifted its holdings in shares of Invesco by 17.8% during the 1st quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 8,258 shares of the asset managers stock worth $125,000 after acquiring an additional 1,247 shares during the last quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. boosted its stake in Invesco by 81.1% in the first quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 283,699 shares of the asset managers stock worth $4,304,000 after buying an additional 127,008 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Bailard Inc. bought a new position in shares of Invesco during the first quarter valued at about $473,000. Institutional investors own 66.09% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research firms have recently issued reports on IVZ. The Goldman Sachs Group boosted their target price on Invesco from $25.50 to $26.50 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Cowen restated a buy rating on shares of Invesco in a research note on Thursday, September 18th. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Invesco from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday, November 8th. Royal Bank Of Canada raised their target price on shares of Invesco from $23.00 to $25.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c+) rating on shares of Invesco in a report on Thursday. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have issued a Buy rating and eleven have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $23.70.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, Director Douglas J. Sharp sold 160,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, October 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $23.56, for a total transaction of $3,769,600.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 192 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,523.52. This trade represents a 99.88% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, Director Stephanie Butcher sold 103,192 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, September 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $22.12, for a total value of $2,282,607.04. Following the transaction, the director owned 29,855 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $660,392.60. This represents a 77.56% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. 1.21% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Invesco Trading Down 2.0%

Shares of Invesco stock opened at $23.51 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $10.49 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.99, a PEG ratio of 0.85 and a beta of 1.72. The company has a current ratio of 1.30, a quick ratio of 1.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.67. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $23.12 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $19.49. Invesco Ltd. has a 12-month low of $11.60 and a 12-month high of $24.75.

Invesco (NYSE:IVZ  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 28th. The asset manager reported $0.61 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.44 by $0.17. The business had revenue of $1.19 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.17 billion. Invesco had a net margin of 14.15% and a return on equity of 8.52%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 7.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $0.44 EPS. Analysts predict that Invesco Ltd. will post 1.87 EPS for the current year.

Invesco Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 2nd. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be paid a dividend of $0.21 per share. This represents a $0.84 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.6%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. Invescos payout ratio is 57.14%.

Invesco Profile

(Free Report)

Invesco Ltd. is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm provides its services to retail clients, institutional clients, high-net worth clients, public entities, corporations, unions, non-profit organizations, endowments, foundations, pension funds, financial institutions, and sovereign wealth funds.

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Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Get Free Report) was upgraded by analysts at Scotiabank to a strong-buy rating in a research report issued on Wednesday,Zacks.com reports.

A number of other equities analysts have also issued reports on the stock. Cantor Fitzgerald raised their price target on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $925.00 to $985.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, October 31st. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered their price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $1,010.00 to $900.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Monday, August 11th. HSBC lifted their price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $700.00 to $800.00 in a research report on Wednesday, October 1st. Hsbc Global Res raised Eli Lilly and Company from a moderate sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 27th. Finally, Morgan Stanley upped their target price on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $1,090.00 to $1,171.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, sixteen have issued a Buy rating and six have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Eli Lilly and Company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $999.32.

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Read Our Latest Stock Report on Eli Lilly and Company

Eli Lilly and Company Stock Up 0.2%

LLY stock traded up $1.80 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $1,024.67. The stock had a trading volume of 3,859,587 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,072,967. The business has a 50-day moving average of $820.93 and a two-hundred day moving average of $779.85. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.86, a current ratio of 1.28 and a quick ratio of 1.00. The firm has a market cap of $968.70 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 66.97, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.21 and a beta of 0.43. Eli Lilly and Company has a 52-week low of $623.78 and a 52-week high of $1,033.62.

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $7.02 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $6.42 by $0.60. The company had revenue of $17.60 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $16.09 billion. Eli Lilly and Company had a net margin of 25.91% and a return on equity of 92.72%. The firms revenue was up 53.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $1.18 earnings per share. Eli Lilly and Company has set its FY 2025 guidance at 23.000-23.700 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Eli Lilly and Company will post 23.48 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Eli Lilly and Company

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 97.5% in the first quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 101,305,650 shares of the companys stock worth $83,669,349,000 after acquiring an additional 50,002,551 shares during the last quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 78,621.2% in the 2nd quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 11,552,336 shares of the companys stock valued at $9,005,392,000 after buying an additional 11,537,661 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company in the second quarter valued at about $8,827,714,000. Nuveen LLC acquired a new position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company in the first quarter worth approximately $4,613,912,000. Finally, Vanguard Group Inc. increased its position in Eli Lilly and Company by 6.7% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 79,224,392 shares of the companys stock valued at $65,432,218,000 after purchasing an additional 4,975,395 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 82.53% of the companys stock.

Eli Lilly and Company Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes; and Zepbound for obesity.

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Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (NYSE:SMFG  Get Free Report) announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday. The bank reported $0.59 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.40 by $0.19, Zacks reports. Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group had a net margin of 11.78% and a return on equity of 7.88%.

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Trading Up 5.4%

NYSE SMFG traded up $0.89 on Friday, hitting $17.46. 3,766,167 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,955,156. The companys 50 day moving average price is $16.39 and its 200-day moving average price is $15.68. The firm has a market capitalization of $112.28 billion, a P/E ratio of 18.38, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.78 and a beta of 0.36. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.75, a current ratio of 1.03 and a quick ratio of 1.03. Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group has a twelve month low of $11.83 and a twelve month high of $17.58.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Zacks Research downgraded shares of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 4th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c+) rating on shares of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, August 2nd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating and two have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy.

Institutional Trading of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group

Several hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of SMFG. Sivia Capital Partners LLC increased its stake in shares of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group by 43.9% in the second quarter. Sivia Capital Partners LLC now owns 32,398 shares of the banks stock valued at $490,000 after buying an additional 9,876 shares during the period. Acadian Asset Management LLC lifted its holdings in Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group by 336.4% during the first quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 39,574 shares of the banks stock worth $610,000 after acquiring an additional 30,506 shares during the period. Schonfeld Strategic Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group by 23.2% in the third quarter. Schonfeld Strategic Advisors LLC now owns 59,961 shares of the banks stock valued at $1,004,000 after purchasing an additional 11,286 shares during the last quarter. Vident Advisory LLC increased its stake in shares of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group by 14.3% in the third quarter. Vident Advisory LLC now owns 194,846 shares of the banks stock worth $3,262,000 after purchasing an additional 24,449 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Evergreen Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group by 22.8% in the 2nd quarter. Evergreen Capital Management LLC now owns 83,255 shares of the banks stock worth $1,258,000 after purchasing an additional 15,431 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 3.85% of the companys stock.

About Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group

(Get Free Report)

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides banking, leasing, securities, credit card, and consumer finance services in Japan, the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Oceania. It operates through Wholesale Business Unit, Retail Business Unit, Global Business Unit, and Global Markets Business Unit segments.

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PagSeguro Digital (NYSE:PAGS  Free Report) had its price objective boosted by Susquehanna from $11.00 to $12.00 in a research note published on Friday morning,Benzinga reports. They currently have a positive rating on the stock.

Several other equities analysts also recently commented on the company. Zacks Research downgraded PagSeguro Digital from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, September 19th. The Goldman Sachs Group restated a neutral rating and issued a $9.00 target price (down from $12.00) on shares of PagSeguro Digital in a research note on Tuesday, October 14th. Bank of America upgraded PagSeguro Digital from a neutral rating to a buy rating and increased their price target for the stock from $10.00 to $13.00 in a research note on Friday, September 19th. Wall Street Zen cut PagSeguro Digital from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Saturday, October 4th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c) rating on shares of PagSeguro Digital in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $11.50.

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PagSeguro Digital Price Performance

Shares of PagSeguro Digital stock traded up $0.01 during trading hours on Friday, hitting $9.40. 3,655,240 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 4,121,537. The stock has a market capitalization of $3.10 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 7.29, a PEG ratio of 0.48 and a beta of 1.59. PagSeguro Digital has a 12-month low of $6.11 and a 12-month high of $11.16. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $9.56 and a 200-day simple moving average of $9.14.

PagSeguro Digital (NYSE:PAGS  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 12th. The company reported $0.36 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.35 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $937.15 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $971.30 million. PagSeguro Digital had a net margin of 11.00% and a return on equity of 15.39%. On average, analysts forecast that PagSeguro Digital will post 1.17 EPS for the current fiscal year.

PagSeguro Digital Cuts Dividend

The company also recently declared a  dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 3rd. Stockholders of record on Monday, October 6th were issued a $0.12 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, October 6th. PagSeguro Digitals dividend payout ratio is presently 10.85%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Unison Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of PagSeguro Digital by 1.5% during the 3rd quarter. Unison Advisors LLC now owns 74,926 shares of the companys stock valued at $749,000 after purchasing an additional 1,126 shares in the last quarter. CWM LLC boosted its stake in PagSeguro Digital by 29.0% during the third quarter. CWM LLC now owns 5,255 shares of the companys stock valued at $53,000 after buying an additional 1,182 shares during the period. GAMMA Investing LLC grew its position in PagSeguro Digital by 61.2% during the second quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 3,510 shares of the companys stock worth $34,000 after buying an additional 1,333 shares in the last quarter. Rhumbline Advisers increased its stake in PagSeguro Digital by 0.5% in the 2nd quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 275,244 shares of the companys stock worth $2,653,000 after acquiring an additional 1,367 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Waterfront Wealth Inc. raised its holdings in shares of PagSeguro Digital by 0.5% in the 2nd quarter. Waterfront Wealth Inc. now owns 275,967 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,660,000 after acquiring an additional 1,448 shares in the last quarter. 45.88% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

PagSeguro Digital Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

PagSeguro Digital Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, provides financial technology solutions and services for consumers, individual entrepreneurs, micro-merchants, and small and medium-sized companies in Brazil and internationally. The company's products and services include PagSeguro Ecosystem, a digital ecosystem that operates as a closed loop where its clients are able to address their primary day to day financial needs, including receiving and spending funds, and managing and growing their businesses; PagBank digital account, which offers payment and banking services through the PagBank mobile app, as well as centralizes various cash-in options, functionalities, services, and cash-out options in a single ecosystem; and PlugPag, a tool for medium-sized and larger merchants that enables them to connect their point of sale (POS) device directly to their enterprise resource planning software or sales automation system through Bluetooth.

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Sustainable Growth Advisers LP reduced its position in shares of HDFC Bank Limited (NYSE:HDB  Free Report) by 5.6% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 7,366,683 shares of the banks stock after selling 436,814 shares during the quarter. HDFC Bank accounts for approximately 2.9% of Sustainable Growth Advisers LPs holdings, making the stock its 15th biggest position. Sustainable Growth Advisers LPs holdings in HDFC Bank were worth $564,804,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the company. New Vernon Capital Holdings II LLC purchased a new stake in HDFC Bank in the first quarter worth about $1,546,956,000. GQG Partners LLC increased its holdings in HDFC Bank by 105.5% in the 1st quarter. GQG Partners LLC now owns 16,196,992 shares of the banks stock worth $1,076,128,000 after acquiring an additional 8,313,645 shares in the last quarter. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC raised its stake in HDFC Bank by 3,715.5% during the 1st quarter. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC now owns 4,199,717 shares of the banks stock worth $279,029,000 after acquiring an additional 4,089,647 shares during the period. Royal Bank of Canada lifted its holdings in HDFC Bank by 53.5% during the first quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 11,214,711 shares of the banks stock valued at $745,107,000 after purchasing an additional 3,907,637 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nuveen LLC bought a new position in shares of HDFC Bank in the first quarter worth approximately $178,342,000. 17.61% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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HDFC Bank Stock Up 0.3%

HDB stock opened at $36.39 on Friday. HDFC Bank Limited has a twelve month low of $28.89 and a twelve month high of $39.81. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $35.56 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $36.71. The firm has a market cap of $185.64 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.12, a PEG ratio of 1.92 and a beta of 0.69.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

HDFC Bank ( NYSE:HDB Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Saturday, October 18th. The bank reported $0.44 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.36 by $0.08. The business had revenue of $4.95 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.98 billion. HDFC Bank had a return on equity of 11.49% and a net margin of 14.94%. Research analysts expect that HDFC Bank Limited will post 3.03 EPS for the current year.

A number of research firms have recently weighed in on HDB. Zacks Research raised HDFC Bank from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, September 29th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c) rating on shares of HDFC Bank in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised shares of HDFC Bank from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, July 26th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has given a Buy rating and two have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy.

Read Our Latest Research Report on HDFC Bank

HDFC Bank Company Profile

(Free Report)

HDFC Bank Limited provides banking and financial services to individuals and businesses in India, Bahrain, Hong Kong, and Dubai. The company operates in three segments: Wholesale Banking, Retail Banking, and Treasury Services. It accepts savings, salary, current, rural, public provident fund, pension, and demat accounts; fixed and recurring deposits; and safe deposit lockers, as well as offshore accounts and deposits, and overdrafts against fixed deposits.

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Intrua Financial LLC raised its stake in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:TSM  Free Report) by 23.7% in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 1,918 shares of the semiconductor companys stock after buying an additional 367 shares during the period. Intrua Financial LLCs holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing were worth $434,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the company. 1248 Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in the first quarter worth about $28,000. Vision Financial Markets LLC acquired a new position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in the 1st quarter worth about $33,000. Mid American Wealth Advisory Group Inc. acquired a new stake in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in the second quarter valued at approximately $33,000. First Command Advisory Services Inc. increased its position in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 174.1% in the second quarter. First Command Advisory Services Inc. now owns 159 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $36,000 after buying an additional 101 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Keener Financial Planning LLC acquired a new position in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing during the 1st quarter worth approximately $39,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 16.51% of the companys stock.

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Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Stock Up 0.9%

Shares of NYSE TSM opened at $284.79 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $1.48 trillion, a PE ratio of 29.21, a P/E/G ratio of 1.02 and a beta of 1.31. The company has a current ratio of 2.37, a quick ratio of 2.15 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. has a 12-month low of $134.25 and a 12-month high of $311.37. The company has a 50-day moving average of $285.44 and a 200 day moving average of $241.53.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Increases Dividend

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing ( NYSE:TSM Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 16th. The semiconductor company reported $2.92 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.59 by $0.33. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing had a return on equity of 36.06% and a net margin of 43.72%.The business had revenue of $32.36 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $951.89 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $1.94 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 40.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing has set its Q4 2025 guidance at EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. will post 9.2 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, April 9th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, March 17th will be issued a dividend of $0.9678 per share. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, March 17th. This represents a $3.87 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.4%. This is a boost from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings previous quarterly dividend of $0.83. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings payout ratio is presently 26.97%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities research analysts recently commented on TSM shares. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a report on Thursday. Itau BBA Securities began coverage on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a research note on Tuesday, October 7th. They set an outperform rating for the company. Citigroup reiterated a buy rating on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a report on Friday, October 17th. Needham & Company LLC reissued a buy rating and set a $360.00 target price on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a report on Monday, October 27th. Finally, Barclays raised their target price on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from $330.00 to $355.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $371.67.

Read Our Latest Analysis on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Profile

(Free Report)

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, packages, tests, and sells integrated circuits and other semiconductor devices in Taiwan, China, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Japan, the United States, and internationally. It provides a range of wafer fabrication processes, including processes to manufacture complementary metal- oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) logic, mixed-signal, radio frequency, embedded memory, bipolar CMOS mixed-signal, and others.

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Kane Investment Management Inc. trimmed its stake in The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation (NYSE:BK  Free Report) by 16.0% during the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 5,710 shares of the banks stock after selling 1,090 shares during the quarter. Kane Investment Management Inc.s holdings in Bank of New York Mellon were worth $520,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. Westside Investment Management Inc. boosted its stake in Bank of New York Mellon by 78.9% during the 2nd quarter. Westside Investment Management Inc. now owns 288 shares of the banks stock valued at $26,000 after purchasing an additional 127 shares during the period. Hoey Investments Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Bank of New York Mellon during the second quarter valued at approximately $32,000. Orion Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Bank of New York Mellon during the first quarter worth approximately $32,000. GFG Capital LLC bought a new position in Bank of New York Mellon in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $36,000. Finally, McClarren Financial Advisors Inc. acquired a new stake in Bank of New York Mellon in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $34,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 85.31% of the companys stock.

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Bank of New York Mellon Price Performance

NYSE BK opened at $110.60 on Friday. The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation has a 1 year low of $70.46 and a 1 year high of $113.74. The businesss fifty day moving average is $107.70 and its two-hundred day moving average is $98.99. The stock has a market capitalization of $77.13 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.96, a P/E/G ratio of 0.98 and a beta of 1.13. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.83, a quick ratio of 0.72 and a current ratio of 0.70.

Bank of New York Mellon Dividend Announcement

Bank of New York Mellon ( NYSE:BK Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, March 26th. The bank reported $1.30 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Bank of New York Mellon had a return on equity of 14.03% and a net margin of 12.86%.The business had revenue of $4.38 billion for the quarter. On average, research analysts forecast that The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation will post 6.96 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 7th. Shareholders of record on Monday, October 27th were issued a $0.53 dividend. This represents a $2.12 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.9%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, October 27th. Bank of New York Mellons dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 30.59%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research firms have recently issued reports on BK. Truist Financial increased their price target on Bank of New York Mellon from $118.00 to $119.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Barclays increased their target price on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $104.00 to $120.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price target on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $100.00 to $109.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods increased their price objective on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $120.00 to $124.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, October 17th. Finally, TD Cowen boosted their target price on Bank of New York Mellon from $130.00 to $133.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Monday, October 20th. Ten equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and six have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $111.29.

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Bank of New York Mellon Profile

(Free Report)

The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation provides a range of financial products and services in the United States and internationally. The company operates through Securities Services, Market and Wealth Services, Investment and Wealth Management, and other segments. The Securities Services segment offers custody, trust and depositary, accounting, exchange-traded funds, middle-office solutions, transfer agency, services for private equity and real estate funds, foreign exchange, securities lending, liquidity/lending services, and data analytics.

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Intech Investment Management LLC increased its position in shares of The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRV  Free Report) by 51.5% in the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 68,175 shares of the insurance providers stock after acquiring an additional 23,180 shares during the quarter. Intech Investment Management LLCs holdings in Travelers Companies were worth $18,240,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Greykasell Wealth Strategies Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Travelers Companies during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $26,000. Missouri Trust & Investment Co increased its stake in Travelers Companies by 122.2% during the second quarter. Missouri Trust & Investment Co now owns 100 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $27,000 after acquiring an additional 55 shares during the last quarter. Quaker Wealth Management LLC increased its stake in Travelers Companies by 200.0% during the second quarter. Quaker Wealth Management LLC now owns 104 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $28,000 after acquiring an additional 208 shares during the last quarter. Nova Wealth Management Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Travelers Companies in the 2nd quarter valued at $32,000. Finally, Golden State Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Travelers Companies by 283.9% during the 2nd quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC now owns 119 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $32,000 after purchasing an additional 88 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 82.45% of the companys stock.

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Travelers Companies Price Performance

Shares of TRV opened at $286.95 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $64.01 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.28, a PEG ratio of 2.38 and a beta of 0.55. The Travelers Companies, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $230.23 and a fifty-two week high of $290.61. The company has a quick ratio of 0.35, a current ratio of 0.35 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29. The firms 50 day moving average price is $275.29 and its 200 day moving average price is $269.61.

Travelers Companies Dividend Announcement

Travelers Companies ( NYSE:TRV Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 16th. The insurance provider reported $8.14 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $6.01 by $2.13. Travelers Companies had a net margin of 12.14% and a return on equity of 20.28%. The company had revenue of $12.47 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.15 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $5.24 EPS. The firms revenue was up 4.8% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts forecast that The Travelers Companies, Inc. will post 17.02 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Investors of record on Wednesday, December 10th will be paid a dividend of $1.10 per share. This represents a $4.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.5%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 10th. Travelers Companiess payout ratio is presently 17.30%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

TRV has been the topic of several research analyst reports. Citigroup assumed coverage on shares of Travelers Companies in a report on Wednesday, August 13th. They issued a neutral rating and a $291.00 price objective on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price target on shares of Travelers Companies from $289.00 to $297.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research report on Thursday, October 9th. Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b) rating on shares of Travelers Companies in a research note on Tuesday, October 14th. Wells Fargo & Company reaffirmed a positive rating on shares of Travelers Companies in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a buy rating on shares of Travelers Companies in a report on Friday, October 17th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have given a Buy rating, eleven have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $291.31.

View Our Latest Analysis on Travelers Companies

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, EVP Mojgan M. Lefebvre sold 16,820 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, August 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $277.54, for a total value of $4,668,222.80. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, EVP Michael Frederick Klein sold 8,572 shares of Travelers Companies stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, October 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $270.73, for a total transaction of $2,320,697.56. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president owned 33,638 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,106,815.74. This represents a 20.31% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders have sold 54,195 shares of company stock worth $15,042,229 in the last quarter. Company insiders own 1.46% of the companys stock.

Travelers Companies Profile

(Free Report)

The Travelers Companies, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides a range of commercial and personal property, and casualty insurance products and services to businesses, government units, associations, and individuals in the United States and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Business Insurance, Bond & Specialty Insurance, and Personal Insurance.

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A Dombivli-based family, whose relative is stuck in Myanmars notorious human trafficking and cybercrime network, received two unsettling calls on Friday.

The first call came from one of the victims, who had been lured to Myanmar with promises of a lucrative job. The caller, who identified himself as a resident of Kolkata, claimed to be acting as an intermediary between the Myanmar military and the Chinese mafia, demanding a ransom to secure the release of the trapped individuals.

In a span of just 30 minutes, the family received a second call  this time from another victim, one of the 20 individuals from a group currently in a holding centre. The distressing nature of both calls painted a grim picture of the situation the victims face.

Distress calls, grim realities

The first call, which came late Friday afternoon, was a demand for ransom from a man claiming to be a victim himself. According to the family, the caller explained that money had to be paid to the Myanmar military or the Chinese mafia for the victims immediate release. He also indicated that their relatives were being forced into harsh conditions, with basic supplies like food, water, and electricity being cut off to force compliance.

The caller explained that the situation was dire, particularly for those being held at a Chinese mafia centre, where victims were living under constant threat. Theyre forcing us to work under the threat of discontinuing our basic supplies, said the family member of one of the detainees.

The same family Dombivli resident received a second call just half an hour from a different captive  one of the 20 people who were part of a group in Myanmars immigration centre, awaiting deportation.

This second victim, from West Bengal, described similarly harsh conditions and revealed that the Chinese mafia had offered food, money, and liquor to entice the captives to stay and continue working in their operations. However, the victims had reportedly refused the offer.

The second caller further explained that the group was being pressured to pay a fine of 4,000 Thai baht  Rs 10,000, to avoid arrest once they reached Thailand, adding to the confusion and fear surrounding the situation.

Lack of formal communication

While the families of the victims are desperate for news, there has been no formal communication from the Indian embassy regarding the situation. According to the families, 112 Indian nationals are still stuck in Myanmar, split into two groups  50 with the Myanmar military and the rest with the Chinese mafia. A portion of the group, 20 individuals, have completed their verification process and are awaiting safe transport to Thailand. Their families were initially hopeful after learning that some of the captives might return by November 18, following assurances from Union Minister Piyush Goyals office. However, the latest call has cast doubt on this timeline, leaving the families in a state of confusion and worry.

The Dombivli family expressed concern about the lack of clarity, especially given that the captives seem to be stuck in limbo with little support. We dont know when our kin will be rescued. The calls from the victims make it clear that they are not being treated as human beings but as forced labour, said one family member.

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Two agents arrested

Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered a case against the perpetrators of the illegal human trafficking operation in Myanmar and arrested two men  Soyal Akhtar and Mohit Giri  who allegedly lured individuals from Gujarat and Rajasthan with promises of well-paying jobs. The victims were then forced into illegal work in Myanmars cybercrime centres, and many have since been detained by either the Chinese mafia or the Myanmar military.

The investigation is ongoing, with authorities continuing to track down those responsible for trafficking and exploiting the victims.


Watts Water Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:WTS  Get Free Report) major shareholder Timothy Horne sold 6,994 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $278.65, for a total value of $1,948,878.10. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider directly owned 23,006 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $6,410,621.90. This trade represents a 23.31% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Large shareholders that own 10% or more of a companys shares are required to disclose their sales and purchases with the SEC.

Watts Water Technologies Stock Down 1.0%

NYSE WTS opened at $269.18 on Friday. Watts Water Technologies, Inc. has a 12 month low of $177.59 and a 12 month high of $287.89. The company has a current ratio of 2.59, a quick ratio of 1.63 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.10. The stock has a market cap of $8.98 billion, a PE ratio of 28.94, a P/E/G ratio of 3.27 and a beta of 1.17. The stocks 50 day moving average is $277.24 and its 200 day moving average is $260.19.

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Watts Water Technologies (NYSE:WTS  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 5th. The technology company reported $2.50 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.29 by $0.21. Watts Water Technologies had a net margin of 13.63% and a return on equity of 18.11%. The business had revenue of $611.70 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $576.20 million. During the same period last year, the firm posted $2.03 EPS. The companys revenue was up 12.5% on a year-over-year basis. Watts Water Technologies has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. Research analysts predict that Watts Water Technologies, Inc. will post 9.08 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Watts Water Technologies Announces Dividend

Analyst Ratings Changes

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 15th. Shareholders of record on Monday, December 1st will be paid a $0.52 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 1st. This represents a $2.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.8%. Watts Water Technologiess payout ratio is presently 21.47%.

A number of research analysts have recently weighed in on WTS shares. Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b+) rating on shares of Watts Water Technologies in a research report on Tuesday, October 14th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft restated a hold rating on shares of Watts Water Technologies in a report on Friday, August 8th. Wall Street Zen raised Watts Water Technologies from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Saturday, November 8th. Zacks Research downgraded Watts Water Technologies from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, October 20th. Finally, Barclays boosted their price target on shares of Watts Water Technologies from $287.00 to $300.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Friday, November 7th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Watts Water Technologies has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $264.25.

Check Out Our Latest Report on WTS

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Watts Water Technologies

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. World Investment Advisors raised its holdings in Watts Water Technologies by 1.4% during the 3rd quarter. World Investment Advisors now owns 2,648 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $740,000 after buying an additional 37 shares during the period. Texas Yale Capital Corp. raised its stake in shares of Watts Water Technologies by 4.4% in the third quarter. Texas Yale Capital Corp. now owns 940 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $263,000 after acquiring an additional 40 shares during the period. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans raised its stake in shares of Watts Water Technologies by 0.6% in the second quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans now owns 6,457 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $1,588,000 after acquiring an additional 40 shares during the period. Journey Strategic Wealth LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Watts Water Technologies by 4.3% in the 3rd quarter. Journey Strategic Wealth LLC now owns 1,001 shares of the technology companys stock worth $280,000 after acquiring an additional 41 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Profund Advisors LLC boosted its stake in shares of Watts Water Technologies by 4.9% during the 3rd quarter. Profund Advisors LLC now owns 1,136 shares of the technology companys stock worth $317,000 after purchasing an additional 53 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 95.02% of the companys stock.

Watts Water Technologies Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Watts Water Technologies, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, supplies products and solutions that manage and conserve the flow of fluids and energy into, through, and out of buildings in the commercial, industrial, and residential markets in the Americas, Europe, the Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa.

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Tortoise Energy Infrastructure Corporation (NYSE:TYG  Get Free Report) Director Andrew Iseman acquired 3,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were bought at an average cost of $46.83 per share, with a total value of $140,490.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the director directly owned 3,000 shares in the company, valued at approximately $140,490. This trade represents a  increase in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website.

Tortoise Energy Infrastructure Trading Up 0.5%

Shares of TYG traded up $0.22 during trading hours on Friday, hitting $44.34. The stock had a trading volume of 115,182 shares, compared to its average volume of 88,005. Tortoise Energy Infrastructure Corporation has a 12-month low of $33.73 and a 12-month high of $48.76. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $42.87 and its 200 day simple moving average is $42.40.

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Tortoise Energy Infrastructure Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, February 27th. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 20th will be paid a $0.475 dividend. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 12.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, February 20th.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Tortoise Energy Infrastructure Company Profile

Several hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of TYG. Private Advisor Group LLC purchased a new stake in Tortoise Energy Infrastructure during the first quarter worth approximately $339,000. LPL Financial LLC boosted its position in Tortoise Energy Infrastructure by 60.5% during the 1st quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 101,371 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $4,364,000 after purchasing an additional 38,223 shares during the period. Eastern Bank increased its holdings in Tortoise Energy Infrastructure by 137.2% in the 1st quarter. Eastern Bank now owns 7,001 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $301,000 after purchasing an additional 4,049 shares in the last quarter. Harbour Investments Inc. raised its position in Tortoise Energy Infrastructure by 31.3% in the first quarter. Harbour Investments Inc. now owns 5,460 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $235,000 after purchasing an additional 1,300 shares during the period. Finally, Commerce Bank acquired a new position in shares of Tortoise Energy Infrastructure during the first quarter worth about $217,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 32.50% of the companys stock.

(Get Free Report)

Tortoise Energy Infrastructure Corporation is a closed ended equity mutual fund launched and managed by Tortoise Capital Advisors LLC The fund invests in the public equity markets of the United States. It seeks to invest in the stocks of companies operating in the energy infrastructure sector, with an emphasis on those companies that are engaged in transporting, processing, storing, distributing or marketing natural gas, natural gas liquids (primarily propane), coal, crude oil or refined petroleum products, or exploring, developing, managing or producing such commodities.

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Union Savings Bank cut its stake in Emerson Electric Co. (NYSE:EMR  Free Report) by 22.2% during the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 2,272 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 650 shares during the quarter. Union Savings Banks holdings in Emerson Electric were worth $331,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Saudi Central Bank acquired a new stake in shares of Emerson Electric in the first quarter worth approximately $25,000. MJT & Associates Financial Advisory Group Inc. acquired a new stake in Emerson Electric during the 1st quarter worth $27,000. PFS Partners LLC boosted its stake in Emerson Electric by 65.9% during the 2nd quarter. PFS Partners LLC now owns 272 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $36,000 after purchasing an additional 108 shares during the last quarter. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Emerson Electric during the second quarter worth $38,000. Finally, Clal Insurance Enterprises Holdings Ltd raised its position in shares of Emerson Electric by 436.4% in the first quarter. Clal Insurance Enterprises Holdings Ltd now owns 354 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $39,000 after buying an additional 288 shares during the last quarter. 74.30% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several brokerages recently issued reports on EMR. Royal Bank Of Canada dropped their price objective on shares of Emerson Electric from $155.00 to $153.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, November 6th. Jefferies Financial Group cut their price target on Emerson Electric from $160.00 to $155.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, October 7th. Daiwa Capital Markets boosted their price objective on Emerson Electric from $150.00 to $153.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, September 24th. Wolfe Research cut their target price on Emerson Electric from $173.00 to $172.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lifted their price target on Emerson Electric from $157.00 to $159.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, October 2nd. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, ten have given a Buy rating, five have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Emerson Electric currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $149.00.

Emerson Electric Price Performance

NYSE:EMR opened at $127.48 on Friday. Emerson Electric Co. has a 52 week low of $90.06 and a 52 week high of $150.27. The stocks fifty day moving average is $132.16 and its two-hundred day moving average is $130.48. The company has a market capitalization of $71.62 billion, a P/E ratio of 27.42, a P/E/G ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 1.30. The company has a quick ratio of 0.63, a current ratio of 0.85 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42.

Emerson Electric (NYSE:EMR  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 6th. The industrial products company reported $0.79 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Emerson Electric had a return on equity of 14.34% and a net margin of 14.92%.The firm had revenue of $3.16 billion during the quarter. Equities analysts expect that Emerson Electric Co. will post 5.96 EPS for the current year.

Emerson Electric Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 10th. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be issued a $0.555 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 14th. This represents a $2.22 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.7%. This is an increase from Emerson Electrics previous quarterly dividend of $0.53. Emerson Electrics dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 54.95%.

Emerson Electric announced that its board has authorized a stock buyback plan on Wednesday, November 5th that authorizes the company to repurchase $0.00 in shares. This repurchase authorization authorizes the industrial products company to buy shares of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase plans are often a sign that the companys board believes its shares are undervalued.

About Emerson Electric

(Free Report)

Emerson Electric Co, a technology and software company, provides various solutions for customers in industrial, commercial, and consumer markets in the Americas, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. It operates in six segments: Final Control, Control Systems & Software, Measurement & Analytical, AspenTech, Discrete Automation, and Safety & Productivity.

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Union Savings Bank boosted its position in shares of EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG  Free Report) by 20.3% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 3,155 shares of the energy exploration companys stock after acquiring an additional 532 shares during the quarter. Union Savings Banks holdings in EOG Resources were worth $379,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. StrongBox Wealth LLC lifted its holdings in shares of EOG Resources by 1.9% during the second quarter. StrongBox Wealth LLC now owns 4,817 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $576,000 after purchasing an additional 88 shares during the period. ORG Partners LLC lifted its stake in EOG Resources by 45.1% during the 2nd quarter. ORG Partners LLC now owns 283 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $34,000 after acquiring an additional 88 shares during the period. Ameriflex Group Inc. lifted its stake in EOG Resources by 31.6% during the 2nd quarter. Ameriflex Group Inc. now owns 379 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $46,000 after acquiring an additional 91 shares during the period. Granite Harbor Advisors Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of EOG Resources by 3.2% in the 1st quarter. Granite Harbor Advisors Inc. now owns 3,034 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $389,000 after acquiring an additional 94 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Sigma Planning Corp increased its stake in shares of EOG Resources by 1.6% in the first quarter. Sigma Planning Corp now owns 6,259 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $803,000 after acquiring an additional 97 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 89.91% of the companys stock.

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EOG Resources Stock Performance

NYSE EOG opened at $110.31 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $59.85 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.72, a PEG ratio of 8.20 and a beta of 0.72. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $111.01 and a 200 day moving average of $115.43. The company has a current ratio of 1.79, a quick ratio of 1.61 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12. EOG Resources, Inc. has a twelve month low of $102.52 and a twelve month high of $138.18.

EOG Resources Dividend Announcement

EOG Resources ( NYSE:EOG Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The energy exploration company reported $2.71 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.42 by $0.29. The company had revenue of $5.85 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.48 billion. EOG Resources had a return on equity of 20.51% and a net margin of 25.25%.EOG Resourcess quarterly revenue was down 2.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company earned $2.89 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts anticipate that EOG Resources, Inc. will post 11.47 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 30th. Stockholders of record on Friday, January 16th will be given a $1.02 dividend. This represents a $4.08 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.7%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, January 16th. EOG Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 40.64%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of research firms recently issued reports on EOG. The Goldman Sachs Group decreased their target price on shares of EOG Resources from $130.00 to $125.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, October 15th. Evercore ISI lifted their price objective on EOG Resources from $141.00 to $149.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, October 6th. Wolfe Research decreased their price objective on EOG Resources from $139.00 to $138.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, October 1st. Wells Fargo & Company lowered their target price on EOG Resources from $127.00 to $126.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada lifted their price target on EOG Resources from $140.00 to $145.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 7th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have assigned a Buy rating and fifteen have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $140.31.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on EOG Resources

EOG Resources Company Profile

(Free Report)

EOG Resources, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, explores for, develops, produces, and markets crude oil, natural gas liquids, and natural gas primarily in producing basins in the United States, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and internationally. The company was formerly known as Enron Oil & Gas Company.

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Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A. decreased its stake in Valero Energy Corporation (NYSE:VLO  Free Report) by 1.9% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 97,373 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after selling 1,837 shares during the period. Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A.s holdings in Valero Energy were worth $13,093,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other large investors have also modified their holdings of the stock. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC lifted its holdings in Valero Energy by 18.5% during the 1st quarter. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC now owns 22,402 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $2,959,000 after buying an additional 3,503 shares during the last quarter. Hancock Whitney Corp increased its holdings in shares of Valero Energy by 8.9% in the 1st quarter. Hancock Whitney Corp now owns 46,474 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $6,138,000 after acquiring an additional 3,790 shares during the last quarter. United Super Pty Ltd in its capacity as Trustee for the Construction & Building Unions Superannuation Fund acquired a new stake in shares of Valero Energy during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $766,000. FORA Capital LLC bought a new position in Valero Energy during the first quarter worth $866,000. Finally, Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. boosted its holdings in Valero Energy by 11.2% in the first quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 560,495 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $74,025,000 after purchasing an additional 56,274 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 78.69% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of analysts have weighed in on the stock. Morgan Stanley cut shares of Valero Energy from an overweight rating to an equal weight rating and increased their target price for the stock from $160.00 to $175.00 in a report on Friday, October 3rd. Barclays boosted their price objective on shares of Valero Energy from $151.00 to $169.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 7th. Raymond James Financial reissued a strong-buy rating and issued a $195.00 target price (up previously from $181.00) on shares of Valero Energy in a report on Friday, October 24th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c) rating on shares of Valero Energy in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Evercore ISI increased their price target on Valero Energy from $135.00 to $185.00 and gave the stock an in-line rating in a research report on Friday, September 19th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have issued a Buy rating and six have issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Valero Energy currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $181.00.

Valero Energy Trading Up 3.3%

Valero Energy stock opened at $181.63 on Friday. Valero Energy Corporation has a 52-week low of $99.00 and a 52-week high of $183.93. The company has a quick ratio of 1.09, a current ratio of 1.60 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36. The firm has a market capitalization of $55.40 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 37.92, a PEG ratio of 1.77 and a beta of 1.01. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $166.75 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $147.38.

Valero Energy (NYSE:VLO  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The oil and gas company reported $3.66 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.15 by $0.51. The company had revenue of $32.17 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $28.80 billion. Valero Energy had a return on equity of 8.69% and a net margin of 1.21%.The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 2.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.14 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts expect that Valero Energy Corporation will post 7.92 earnings per share for the current year.

Valero Energy Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 18th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, November 20th will be given a dividend of $1.13 per share. This represents a $4.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.5%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, November 20th. Valero Energys payout ratio is 94.36%.

Valero Energy Profile

(Free Report)

Valero Energy Corporation manufactures, markets, and sells petroleum-based and low-carbon liquid transportation fuels and petrochemical products in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Latin America, Mexico, Peru, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Refining, Renewable Diesel, and Ethanol.

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Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp lowered its stake in shares of Valero Energy Corporation (NYSE:VLO  Free Report) by 34.5% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 196,655 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after selling 103,743 shares during the period. Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp owned about 0.06% of Valero Energy worth $26,434,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in VLO. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC increased its holdings in Valero Energy by 18.5% during the 1st quarter. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC now owns 22,402 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $2,959,000 after acquiring an additional 3,503 shares in the last quarter. Hancock Whitney Corp grew its position in shares of Valero Energy by 8.9% in the first quarter. Hancock Whitney Corp now owns 46,474 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $6,138,000 after purchasing an additional 3,790 shares during the last quarter. United Super Pty Ltd in its capacity as Trustee for the Construction & Building Unions Superannuation Fund acquired a new stake in shares of Valero Energy in the first quarter valued at approximately $766,000. FORA Capital LLC purchased a new position in shares of Valero Energy during the 1st quarter worth approximately $866,000. Finally, Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. raised its position in shares of Valero Energy by 11.2% during the 1st quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 560,495 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $74,025,000 after purchasing an additional 56,274 shares during the last quarter. 78.69% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities research analysts have commented on VLO shares. Evercore ISI increased their target price on Valero Energy from $135.00 to $185.00 and gave the company an in-line rating in a report on Friday, September 19th. Wall Street Zen downgraded Valero Energy from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research report on Saturday. Mizuho increased their price objective on Valero Energy from $166.00 to $190.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, September 15th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c) rating on shares of Valero Energy in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, UBS Group reissued a buy rating and issued a $183.00 target price on shares of Valero Energy in a research note on Friday, October 24th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have given a Buy rating and six have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $181.00.

Valero Energy Stock Performance

NYSE VLO opened at $181.63 on Friday. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $166.75 and its 200 day moving average price is $147.38. The company has a current ratio of 1.60, a quick ratio of 1.09 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36. Valero Energy Corporation has a twelve month low of $99.00 and a twelve month high of $183.93. The company has a market capitalization of $55.40 billion, a PE ratio of 37.92, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.77 and a beta of 1.01.

Valero Energy (NYSE:VLO  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The oil and gas company reported $3.66 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.15 by $0.51. The company had revenue of $32.17 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $28.80 billion. Valero Energy had a return on equity of 8.69% and a net margin of 1.21%.The firms revenue was down 2.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $1.14 EPS. On average, research analysts predict that Valero Energy Corporation will post 7.92 earnings per share for the current year.

Valero Energy Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 18th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, November 20th will be paid a dividend of $1.13 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, November 20th. This represents a $4.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.5%. Valero Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 94.36%.

Valero Energy Company Profile

(Free Report)

Valero Energy Corporation manufactures, markets, and sells petroleum-based and low-carbon liquid transportation fuels and petrochemical products in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Latin America, Mexico, Peru, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Refining, Renewable Diesel, and Ethanol.

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Vise Technologies Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Ingersoll Rand Inc. (NYSE:IR  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor acquired 7,610 shares of the industrial products companys stock, valued at approximately $633,000.

A number of other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. CWM LLC increased its position in Ingersoll Rand by 1.5% during the 1st quarter. CWM LLC now owns 10,655 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $853,000 after buying an additional 161 shares in the last quarter. Apollon Wealth Management LLC grew its stake in shares of Ingersoll Rand by 13.7% during the first quarter. Apollon Wealth Management LLC now owns 7,522 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $602,000 after acquiring an additional 906 shares during the last quarter. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Ingersoll Rand by 40.4% during the first quarter. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. now owns 2,562 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $205,000 after acquiring an additional 737 shares in the last quarter. Wealthfront Advisers LLC raised its position in shares of Ingersoll Rand by 16.3% in the 1st quarter. Wealthfront Advisers LLC now owns 30,661 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $2,454,000 after purchasing an additional 4,301 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Larson Financial Group LLC grew its position in Ingersoll Rand by 136.4% during the 1st quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 494 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $39,000 after purchasing an additional 285 shares during the last quarter. 95.27% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Ingersoll Rand Trading Down 1.1%

NYSE IR opened at $75.34 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $29.77 billion, a PE ratio of 55.81, a PEG ratio of 4.90 and a beta of 1.43. Ingersoll Rand Inc. has a 12 month low of $65.61 and a 12 month high of $106.03. The companys 50-day moving average price is $79.33 and its 200-day moving average price is $81.03. The company has a current ratio of 2.16, a quick ratio of 1.51 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47.

Ingersoll Rand Dividend Announcement

Ingersoll Rand ( NYSE:IR Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The industrial products company reported $0.86 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.87 by ($0.01). The company had revenue of $1.96 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.95 billion. Ingersoll Rand had a return on equity of 12.14% and a net margin of 7.31%.Ingersoll Rands revenue was up 5.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $0.84 earnings per share. Ingersoll Rand has set its FY 2025 guidance at 3.250-3.310 EPS. Equities research analysts forecast that Ingersoll Rand Inc. will post 3.32 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 4th. Investors of record on Thursday, November 13th will be issued a $0.02 dividend. This represents a $0.08 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.1%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, November 13th. Ingersoll Rands payout ratio is presently 5.93%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Morgan Stanley cut their price target on shares of Ingersoll Rand from $88.00 to $85.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, August 13th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c) rating on shares of Ingersoll Rand in a research note on Thursday. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their target price on shares of Ingersoll Rand from $83.00 to $95.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, October 6th. Barclays dropped their price target on shares of Ingersoll Rand from $92.00 to $91.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, August 4th. Finally, Citigroup decreased their price objective on shares of Ingersoll Rand from $94.00 to $91.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Five analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and six have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $93.90.

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Ingersoll Rand Company Profile

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Ingersoll Rand Inc provides various mission-critical air, gas, liquid, and solid flow creation technologies services and solutions worldwide. It operates through two segments, Industrial Technologies and Services, and Precision and Science Technologies. The Industrial Technologies and Services segment designs, manufactures, markets, and services air and gas compression, vacuum, and blower products; fluid transfer equipment and loading systems; and power tools and lifting equipment, including associated aftermarket parts, consumables, air treatment equipment, controls, other accessories, and services under the under the Ingersoll Rand, Gardner Denver, Nash, CompAir, Elmo Rietschle brands, etc.

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Vise Technologies Inc. bought a new position in STMicroelectronics N.V. (NYSE:STM  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor bought 18,544 shares of the semiconductor producers stock, valued at approximately $564,000.

A number of other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of STM. CWM LLC grew its holdings in STMicroelectronics by 27.5% in the second quarter. CWM LLC now owns 2,680 shares of the semiconductor producers stock worth $82,000 after purchasing an additional 578 shares during the period. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of STMicroelectronics by 5.3% during the first quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 12,930 shares of the semiconductor producers stock valued at $284,000 after purchasing an additional 650 shares during the last quarter. Gallacher Capital Management LLC boosted its position in shares of STMicroelectronics by 5.0% in the 1st quarter. Gallacher Capital Management LLC now owns 14,746 shares of the semiconductor producers stock worth $324,000 after purchasing an additional 702 shares in the last quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC grew its stake in shares of STMicroelectronics by 63.1% in the 1st quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC now owns 2,167 shares of the semiconductor producers stock worth $48,000 after buying an additional 838 shares during the last quarter. Finally, IFP Advisors Inc increased its position in STMicroelectronics by 85.4% during the 2nd quarter. IFP Advisors Inc now owns 2,269 shares of the semiconductor producers stock valued at $69,000 after buying an additional 1,045 shares in the last quarter. 5.05% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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STMicroelectronics Stock Down 1.9%

Shares of STMicroelectronics stock opened at $23.33 on Friday. STMicroelectronics N.V. has a twelve month low of $17.25 and a twelve month high of $33.47. The company has a quick ratio of 2.28, a current ratio of 3.22 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.11. The companys 50 day moving average is $26.82 and its 200 day moving average is $27.23. The company has a market cap of $20.95 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 40.22, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.59 and a beta of 1.67.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

STMicroelectronics ( NYSE:STM Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The semiconductor producer reported $0.29 earnings per share for the quarter. STMicroelectronics had a return on equity of 4.06% and a net margin of 4.55%.The firm had revenue of $3.19 billion for the quarter. Research analysts anticipate that STMicroelectronics N.V. will post 0.85 EPS for the current year.

A number of equities research analysts have recently commented on the company. Baird R W raised STMicroelectronics from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 22nd. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reissued a buy rating on shares of STMicroelectronics in a research report on Friday, July 25th. Craig Hallum cut shares of STMicroelectronics from a buy rating to a hold rating and set a $28.00 target price for the company. in a report on Thursday, July 24th. Susquehanna increased their price target on shares of STMicroelectronics from $35.00 to $40.00 and gave the company a positive rating in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, Barclays restated an underweight rating on shares of STMicroelectronics in a report on Tuesday, September 16th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have given a Buy rating, nine have given a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $31.19.

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STMicroelectronics Profile

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STMicroelectronics N.V., together with its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures, and sells semiconductor products in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia Pacific. The company operates through Automotive and Discrete Group; Analog, MEMS and Sensors Group; and Microcontrollers and Digital ICs Group segments.

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CVS Health (NYSE:CVS  Get Free Report) had its price target cut by research analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from $103.00 to $102.00 in a research report issued on Thursday,Benzinga reports. The brokerage currently has an overweight rating on the pharmacy operators stock. Wells Fargo & Companys target price would suggest a potential upside of 31.00% from the companys previous close.

A number of other equities research analysts have also commented on the company. TD Cowen raised their price target on CVS Health from $99.00 to $100.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Raymond James Financial increased their target price on CVS Health from $75.00 to $90.00 in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Cantor Fitzgerald lifted their price target on shares of CVS Health from $78.00 to $95.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Evercore ISI increased their price objective on shares of CVS Health from $85.00 to $95.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Finally, Wolfe Research raised their price objective on shares of CVS Health from $80.00 to $85.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Monday, September 22nd. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twenty-one have given a Buy rating and four have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, CVS Health currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $89.41.

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CVS Health Trading Down 1.7%

CVS opened at $77.86 on Thursday. CVS Health has a twelve month low of $43.56 and a twelve month high of $85.15. The firm has a market cap of $98.84 billion, a PE ratio of 204.90, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.87 and a beta of 0.60. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.83, a quick ratio of 0.62 and a current ratio of 0.83. The firms fifty day moving average is $77.70 and its two-hundred day moving average is $69.90.

CVS Health (NYSE:CVS  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The pharmacy operator reported $1.60 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.36 by $0.24. The business had revenue of $102.87 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $98.85 billion. CVS Health had a net margin of 0.12% and a return on equity of 11.45%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 7.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $1.09 EPS. CVS Health has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.550-6.650 EPS. Equities research analysts anticipate that CVS Health will post 5.89 EPS for the current year.

Insider Activity at CVS Health

In other news, Director Anne A. Finucane sold 7,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, August 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $71.02, for a total value of $532,650.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 22,156 shares in the company, valued at $1,573,519.12. This trade represents a 25.29% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. 1.22% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Avion Wealth raised its stake in shares of CVS Health by 99.0% during the 2nd quarter. Avion Wealth now owns 380 shares of the pharmacy operators stock worth $26,000 after purchasing an additional 189 shares in the last quarter. Harbor Capital Advisors Inc. increased its holdings in CVS Health by 72.1% during the third quarter. Harbor Capital Advisors Inc. now owns 339 shares of the pharmacy operators stock worth $26,000 after buying an additional 142 shares during the last quarter. Corundum Trust Company INC bought a new stake in CVS Health during the third quarter worth $29,000. Harbor Asset Planning Inc. acquired a new stake in CVS Health in the second quarter valued at $30,000. Finally, Bell Investment Advisors Inc grew its position in shares of CVS Health by 119.8% in the 1st quarter. Bell Investment Advisors Inc now owns 455 shares of the pharmacy operators stock valued at $31,000 after acquiring an additional 248 shares during the period. 80.66% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

CVS Health Company Profile

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CVS Health Corporation provides health solutions in the United States. It operates through Health Care Benefits, Health Services, and Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segments. The Health Care Benefits segment offers traditional, voluntary, and consumer-directed health insurance products and related services.

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WESCO International, Inc. (NYSE:WCC  Get Free Report)s stock price hit a new 52-week high during trading on Wednesday . The company traded as high as $265.00 and last traded at $266.0050, with a volume of 64123 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $258.00.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities analysts recently commented on WCC shares. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c+) rating on shares of WESCO International in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Royal Bank Of Canada increased their price objective on shares of WESCO International from $222.00 to $262.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a report on Friday, October 31st. Wall Street Zen cut shares of WESCO International from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, November 8th. Oppenheimer upped their price target on shares of WESCO International from $225.00 to $255.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, September 5th. Finally, Raymond James Financial reiterated a strong-buy rating and issued a $240.00 price target (up previously from $230.00) on shares of WESCO International in a report on Friday, August 1st. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have given a Buy rating and three have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $250.67.

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WESCO International Stock Down 0.6%

The firms 50 day moving average price is $225.40 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $202.54. The firm has a market capitalization of $12.48 billion, a PE ratio of 20.09, a P/E/G ratio of 1.77 and a beta of 1.79. The company has a quick ratio of 1.19, a current ratio of 2.09 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.19.

WESCO International (NYSE:WCC  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The technology company reported $3.92 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.75 by $0.17. WESCO International had a net margin of 2.98% and a return on equity of 12.96%. The firm had revenue of $6.20 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.91 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $3.58 EPS. The firms revenue was up 12.9% compared to the same quarter last year. WESCO International has set its FY 2025 guidance at 13.100-13.600 EPS. As a group, research analysts forecast that WESCO International, Inc. will post 13.3 EPS for the current fiscal year.

WESCO International Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, September 30th. Shareholders of record on Friday, September 12th were given a $0.4538 dividend. This represents a $1.82 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, September 12th. WESCO Internationals dividend payout ratio is presently 14.20%.

Insider Transactions at WESCO International

In other WESCO International news, CAO Matthew S. Kulasa sold 790 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $253.18, for a total transaction of $200,012.20. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer directly owned 3,320 shares in the company, valued at $840,557.60. This represents a 19.22% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, EVP Hemant Porwal sold 4,656 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $224.84, for a total transaction of $1,046,855.04. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 19,141 shares of the companys stock, valued at $4,303,662.44. The trade was a 19.57% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders sold a total of 142,074 shares of company stock valued at $32,430,050 over the last ninety days. 3.30% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On WESCO International

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in WCC. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. grew its position in shares of WESCO International by 166.0% during the third quarter. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. now owns 133 shares of the technology companys stock worth $28,000 after acquiring an additional 83 shares during the last quarter. Rothschild Investment LLC boosted its stake in WESCO International by 788.2% during the 3rd quarter. Rothschild Investment LLC now owns 151 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $32,000 after purchasing an additional 134 shares during the period. Root Financial Partners LLC acquired a new position in WESCO International during the 3rd quarter valued at about $37,000. Whittier Trust Co. grew its position in WESCO International by 46.8% in the 1st quarter. Whittier Trust Co. now owns 279 shares of the technology companys stock worth $43,000 after purchasing an additional 89 shares during the last quarter. Finally, First Horizon Advisors Inc. increased its stake in shares of WESCO International by 129.7% in the second quarter. First Horizon Advisors Inc. now owns 232 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $43,000 after purchasing an additional 131 shares during the period. 93.75% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

WESCO International Company Profile

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WESCO International, Inc provides business-to-business distribution, logistics services, and supply chain solutions in the United States, Canada, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Electrical & Electronic Solutions (EES), Communications & Security Solutions (CSS), and Utility and Broadband Solutions (UBS).

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Westwood Holdings Group Inc. trimmed its stake in Visa Inc. (NYSE:V  Free Report) by 1.7% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 254,527 shares of the credit-card processors stock after selling 4,418 shares during the quarter. Westwood Holdings Group Inc.s holdings in Visa were worth $90,370,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Fjarde AP Fonden Fourth Swedish National Pension Fund increased its position in shares of Visa by 14.5% during the first quarter. Fjarde AP Fonden Fourth Swedish National Pension Fund now owns 455,183 shares of the credit-card processors stock valued at $159,523,000 after acquiring an additional 57,800 shares in the last quarter. Precedent Wealth Partners LLC raised its stake in shares of Visa by 7.5% in the second quarter. Precedent Wealth Partners LLC now owns 1,588 shares of the credit-card processors stock worth $564,000 after purchasing an additional 111 shares during the last quarter. Consilium Wealth Advisory LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Visa during the second quarter valued at $862,000. Iron Gate Global Advisors LLC increased its holdings in Visa by 5.9% in the 1st quarter. Iron Gate Global Advisors LLC now owns 62,890 shares of the credit-card processors stock worth $22,040,000 after buying an additional 3,484 shares in the last quarter. Finally, NatWest Group plc raised its position in Visa by 43.8% in the 2nd quarter. NatWest Group plc now owns 45,660 shares of the credit-card processors stock worth $16,212,000 after buying an additional 13,912 shares during the last quarter. 82.15% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Visa Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:V opened at $329.89 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.53, a quick ratio of 1.08 and a current ratio of 1.08. The firm has a market cap of $604.63 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 32.31, a P/E/G ratio of 2.03 and a beta of 0.87. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $342.16 and a 200 day moving average price of $348.64. Visa Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $299.00 and a fifty-two week high of $375.51.

Visa Increases Dividend

Visa ( NYSE:V Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 28th. The credit-card processor reported $2.98 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.97 by $0.01. Visa had a net margin of 50.15% and a return on equity of 60.31%. The business had revenue of $10.72 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.60 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $2.71 EPS. The businesss revenue was up 11.5% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Visa Inc. will post 11.3 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, November 12th will be paid a $0.67 dividend. This represents a $2.68 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, November 12th. This is a positive change from Visas previous quarterly dividend of $0.59. Visas dividend payout ratio is presently 26.25%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of analysts have recently commented on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company upgraded shares of Visa to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. Citigroup raised Visa to a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, October 23rd. Raymond James Financial reaffirmed an outperform rating and issued a $408.00 price objective (up previously from $398.00) on shares of Visa in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. KeyCorp reissued an overweight rating and issued a $405.00 target price on shares of Visa in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b) rating on shares of Visa in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seventeen have given a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Visa presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $400.00.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on V

Insider Transactions at Visa

In other news, Director Lloyd Carney sold 900 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, November 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $336.48, for a total transaction of $302,832.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director directly owned 2,468 shares in the company, valued at approximately $830,432.64. This represents a 26.72% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, General Counsel Julie B. Rottenberg sold 2,027 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, August 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $344.02, for a total transaction of $697,328.54. Following the completion of the transaction, the general counsel directly owned 11,925 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,102,438.50. This trade represents a 14.53% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders have sold 23,897 shares of company stock valued at $8,164,561 in the last ninety days. Corporate insiders own 0.13% of the companys stock.

Visa Company Profile

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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.

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Identical, similar and familiar

THE reason I never voted after leaving Saipan is that I see how politics can affect families in general. I never planned to take on the problems of democracy, but it was a required class in high school.

In my case, I accidentally took a U.S. civics journalism class because I wasnt paying attention when selecting my courses. By the time I realized, it was too late to change.

Because my father pushed me not to drop the class, I eventually considered my dream job in America as a U.S.-CNMI journalist  even though I hate politics  because politics can destroy families.

I dont care whether my family members are Republican or Democrat, but dont tell me to vote for Republicans when I choose to be a conservative Democrat. Still, just because someone is a Republican will never change my view that they are my Carolinian brother or sister, no matter how they criticize me for being a conservative Democrat.

My father was a loyal Republican.

Its absurd how Democrats label themselves today  blue Democrats, progressive Democrats, Gen Z Democrats, Baby Boomer Democrats  its all ridiculous. And the same goes for Republicans: millennials, conservatives, Barbie doll Republicans, Christian Republicans, drunken master Republicans, or MAGA conman Republicans.

If anyone wants to be a mean Republican or a mean Democrat to me, fine, bring it on  but it will not change anything. You are still my Carolinian brother or sister, no matter how you judge me.

As a U.S.-CNMI journalist, I want no part of what party establishments call themselves. What I want to ask both Democrats and Republicans is this: What happened to normal America  the good manners and politeness we used to have? Since when did we become so foolish? Is it because of money and greed?

Can you believe the crazy things happening today? Are we really going to keep up the craziness in Washington, D.C., or on Capitol Hill?

Was it my idea to let Democrats or Republicans endanger my wife for CEOs opioid profits? The latest election winners are Democrats, so I cannot complain  but I pray that my wife comes home safely soon.

I will not let Democrats or Republicans abuse my wife or destroy my marriage. I dont want to go into details, but one day I visited my wife at a psychiatric clinic in Oregon and saw blood on her hospital clothes and face. I believe she was abused. I yelled in the waiting area and demanded that the staff move my wife.

I took one of three possible culprits to the Multnomah County Family Court to obtain visiting rights, but they lied to the judge. This is a total wrongdoing.

Sincerely,

JOAQUIN O. ROMOLOR

Washington, D.C.
Swampy slumpy Trumpy agenda

FOR those die-hard Republicans and Democrats who were fooled by Trumps second administration into wasting their vote on the best con man in American history, you can still make your voice heard in the next election and help change course.

As for me, whose wife was abducted during Trumps first presidency, my mourning has become my strength, and my determination is my power to expose the Oregon state governments corruption and cover-up  24/7, all year round.

Even if Trump and the United Nations look the other way and ignore this ongoing evil of Oregon state government corruption and cover-up, I will never go away. As a U.S. college journalist in the Indo-Pacific, I will continue to speak out.

I promised my wife I would fight for justice.

President Biden has protected his Democratic allies in the Oregon state government by covering up my emails regarding my wifes abduction. Now Trump is back in office, and still there is no justice for her.

The United Nations has also done nothing to address what happened to my wife, even as Trump issued numerous pardons to lawbreakers  including those who attacked the U.S. Congress in January 2021.

But I wont back down from these crafty, ruthless abusers in the Oregon state government who believe they are above the law.

Meanwhile, U.S. lawmakers are allowing the federal government shutdown to continue, denying Americans their food stamps and paychecks.

We survived Covid19, and some might survive the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, but my war continues every day as U.S. lawmakers fight over their own ideologies and greed.

We elected these lawmakers to do what is right  not to exploit and abuse their power in office. The same goes for officials at the United Nations.

I didnt vote in the last November election because of my wifes abduction, but next year, I plan to vote and help change the nations direction. That doesnt mean I have to agree with Republicans or Democrats  it means I want justice for my wife, and I will keep fighting until I achieve it.

In conclusion, no one wins in this corruption and cover-up in Oregon State. Abusing women is never right, and bringing my wife home is justice for all.

JOAQUIN O. ROMOLOR

Washington, D.C.
NEWS UPDATE: Food stamp official commits to help as Kilili calls for food stamp action/equity

Congressman Sablan laid out his case for putting the Northern Mariana Islands into the national food stamp program at a hearing of the House Subcommittee on Nutrition and Horticulture.

Sablan argued that the people he represents in the Northern Mariana Islands are being denied access to food assistance because a food stamps lite program, negotiated by the U.S. Agriculture Department and the commonwealth government is inadequate and inflexible. Even people who do receive help, he said, get much less than other Americans, yet face much higher food costs.

Sablan is a member of the Agriculture Committees Nutrition Subcommittee, which has oversight over the Department of Agricultures Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program. SNAP provides food aid to some 44.6 million Americans, but the Northern Marianas does not participate in the program.

The sole witness for the hearing was Audrey Rowe, Administrator of the Food and Nutrition Service at the Agriculture Department.

Do I have your commitment to help the Northern Mariana Islands, Sablan asked her in front of a packed Agriculture Committee hearing room.

You have my commitment, Rowe told Sablan.

Sablans emotional description of many of his constituents struggle to feed their families riveted the attention of his colleagues on the Subcommittee and the listeners in the audience.

You may not have a vote, Republican Chairwoman Jean Schmidt of Ohio told Sablan in front of the gathering. But your people have a voice.

Members of Congress representing non-state areas do not have a vote in the House chamber, but do vote on legislation in committee and vote on leadership positions within the Democratic and Republican Party caucuses.


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Federal shutdown threatens these Trump voters livelihoods but not their political loyalties

Steve Egan, owner of a custom promotional items business, holds a President Donald Trump-themed rubber duck as he poses for a portrait during an interview with Reuters in Brandon, Florida, April 22, 2025. REUTERS

(Reuters)  From federal paychecks to public benefits, the longest U.S. government shutdown in history is cutting lifelines for millions of Americans, many of whom voted for President Donald Trump.

But conversations with five Trump voters  part of a group of 20 whom Reuters has interviewed monthly since February  show that while the shutdown has disrupted their lives, it has not diminished their opinion of Trumps performance as president.

Read about innovative ideas and the people working on solutions to global crises with the Reuters Beacon newsletter. Sign up here.

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Both Democrats and Republicans fear the political fallout from the shutdown. But Reuters interviews with the panel of Trump voters show little change in pre-existing ideological divisions as a result of the shutdown.

Most of the 20 voters on the panel are among the two-fifths of Americans who, according to recent Reuters-Ipsos polling, blame the shutdown on Democratic lawmakers because they are refusing to vote to reopen the government until Republicans agree to extend expiring healthcare subsidies through the Affordable Care Act. A few see both parties at fault for the shutdown or object to Trump using the shutdown to lay off thousands of federal workers: an effort that federal judges have blocked for now.

Here is how five of the voters have experienced the shutdown:

A domino effect

Joyce Kenney, 74, a retiree in Prescott Valley, Arizona, rents one of her properties to her goddaughter, a federal worker who helps low-income Americans obtain social services.

After her goddaughter was furloughed in early October, Kenney urged her to apply for other jobs and sign up for unemployment benefits so that she would be able to cover her bills  including the $2,000 she owes Kenney each month for rent. But the unemployment benefits she received only cover two-thirds of that, never mind food and other monthly expenses.

Its a domino effect, said Kenney. She doesnt get paid, so I dont get paid, and then I have to trim my belt, and maybe some other people behind me dont get paid, and it keeps on going on.

The shutdown has also halted a reimbursement check Kenneys relatives were due to receive from the U.S. Agriculture Department for a farm they have in Montana. And theyre going, We were really counting on that. Weve got bills to pay as well, she said.

Kenney blames Democrats for the shutdown because of Vice President JD Vances assertions that the healthcare subsidies Democratic lawmakers seek to extend will be used fraudulently to benefit undocumented immigrants  claims rejected by Democrats and most congressional budget analysts.

Blows to small business

The shutdown has already cost Tampa-based promotional product distributor Steve Egan one $4,000 sale. A Veterans Affairs hospital had asked Egan to procure thousands of beaded necklaces for its float in Januarys Gasparilla Pirate Festival, one of the regions biggest celebrations. But the shutdown forced the hospital to drop out, Egan said.

Flight delays and longer customs processing times caused by the shutdown have also made Egan shorten the lead time he gives customers before they must commit to ordering overseas products.

When a local sheriffs office told Egan, 65, in October they needed 300 T-shirts for a November event, he found an overseas supplier offering a good deal. Normally, Egans client could have waited up to 45 days to accept the deal and still receive the shirts in time, but due to the new uncertainty around shipping schedules, he could only give them half that time to decide  which proved to be too tight a time frame.

If somebody has to have something on a firm deadline right now, then Im telling them they need to get themselves a lot of extra time to work with, he said.

Egan, who has previously said he regrets voting for Trump, blames both Republicans and Democrats for the shutdown. But when it comes to the Affordable Care Act subsidies that Democrats are pushing to extend, he said, he wishes Republican lawmakers would just fund the thing and let it keep going. Egan was receiving health insurance through the ACA marketplace until he signed up for Medicare this past August.

Furloughed workers and job seekers under stress

The furloughs and the Trump administrations efforts to lay off tens of thousands of federal workers during the shutdown are worrying Robert Billups, 34, and his mother.

Billups, an accountant in Washington state seeking his next job, fears new federal cuts will make an already shrinking job market more competitive. His last interview was for a government contractor job that required a security clearance, and Billups said he suspects it went to a recently terminated federal employee who already had one.

His mother, a contractor with the Internal Revenue Service, has been furloughed since the second week of October, according to Billups, heightening job anxiety she has felt since the Trump administration began slashing the federal workforce in early 2025.

Billups said his mother is very resourceful and has saved money for contingencies such as this. But if it continues further, it would become an issue, he said. I imagine anything more than two months would lead her to be like, okay, I have a problem.

Although his mother faults Republicans for not agreeing to support the healthcare subsidy extensions that Democrats are demanding before they vote to reopen the government, Billups said, he appreciates Republicans urge to limit spending.

Neither party is winning the shutdown in his eyes, however. Its so polarized that it kind of almost hurts both of them, he said.

Non-furloughed workers anxious too

Amanda Taylor, 52, an insurance firm employee near Savannah, Georgia, said she worries the shutdown will pause her husbands paycheck if it drags on long enough.

Her husbands job at a federal agency, which Taylor does not want identified to avoid causing problems for him, has not been affected so far. But if he gets furloughed, Taylor said, well be in big trouble because his salary covers most of the couples expenses  including a new mortgage on a house they bought earlier this year.

At Taylors workplace, she has noticed an uptick in hardship requests from clients who work for the federal government and can no longer afford monthly premiums on insurance plans such as auto or home coverage.

Taylor voted for President Joe Biden in 2020 and has complaints about Trumps presidency, but said she blames Democrats 100% for the shutdown.

Its absolutely ridiculous that the Democrats are tying these Obamacare supplements into passing this budget, she said. Those havent even expired yet. Does it need to be worked on? Absolutely. But can we maybe pass the budget before we go into this?

Public benefits interrupted

Juan Rivera, 26, has seen and felt the shutdown in many ways, from friends whose Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits ceased in early November, to relatives in the military who fear being furloughed, to a dental procedure he deferred.

Rivera, a content creator in southern California, is insured through the states Medicaid program and had scheduled a wisdom tooth extraction for October. But his doctor advised him to reschedule it after the shutdown, saying low staffing levels might cause the public insurer to delay approval and processing of his claim.

Rivera said it is hypocritical for Democrats to vote against Republican-backed stopgap bills to reopen government, known as continuing resolutions, because they have voted for such measures under Democratic administrations.

I have to blame the Democrats because they did vote on past occasions to pass a clean resolution, Rivera said. It frustrated him, he added, to see Californias Democratic lawmakers and governor blaming the Trump administration for shutting down the government.

Democrats efforts to extend healthcare subsidies for Americans covered under the Affordable Care Act do not impress Rivera. His parents are among the 24 million Americans who get their health insurance through the ACA but, according to Rivera, their plan was never as affordable as they were led to expect and the whole system needs to be reformed.
NxtQuantum Shift Technologies debuted the Ai+ brand of smartphones back in July this year, touting to be the first fully designed and made in India phones and focused heavily on data security. The company founded by former Realme CEO Madhav Sheth entered Nepal in September and is looking to enter more international markets in coming months.

It will also expand its offering and launch wearables in January, Sheth tells THE WEEK. I am looking at multiple other markets. I have started working on four different markets, and there is a huge potential in these markets where I see there can be a product coming out from India, he said, without disclosing the locations.

NxtQuantum had introduced two smartphones at launch - Ai+ Pulse and Ai+ Nova  targeting the budget customers. These phones are sold exclusively through Flipkart and Sheth claims to have sold over seven lakh units so far and hopes to end the financial year with sales of over a million units.

The company will launch another couple of products next year. However, the focus will continue to remain on the entry-to-mid-level buyers.

Entry and mid put together, it is around 75-80 per cent of the volume market in India. So that is something I want to focus on to start with. I want to move up the ladder and make sure I also have a part of the mid-range, which will be next year, said Sheth.

Sheth says the company will continue its exclusive online partnership with Flipkart for a few more years. But he does want to expand gradually to certain offline channels so that customers can experience the product before they buy.

It would be more need based rather than a grade based expansion, he said.

Chinese companies dominate the Indian smartphone market. In the July-September quarter of 2025, Vivo and Oppo were the top two players in the market, with a share of 18.3 per cent and 13.9 per cent respectively, according recent data published by IDC. Other Chinese brands Realme, Xiaomi, OnePlus, Motorola among others together held over 35 per cent share. Its worth noting that Vivo, Oppo, OnePlus and Realme are all owned by one company BBK Technologies.

Several Indian companies have tried scaling up in the smartphone business in the past, but with little success. Sheth believes the opportunity is now.

India has the potential to do it. It is the right time to put India on the global map. What we did not have is technology transfer, which has not happened from Japan to Taiwan to China. This is happening. And if we are able to build a platform here and scale it up globally, its a huge opportunity, he said.

Sheth pointed that while the Indian smartphone market was growing, there were millions still using feature phones and that offered a huge growth potential.

India has over 650 million smartphones. But around 400 million consumers are still using feature phones and many don't have any phone. So there is a huge digital divide, which I see as an opportunity, he pointed out.

According to Sheth, a big focus for the company has also been on data security and all the important telemetric data is stored on servers in India. Consumers also get a privacy dashboard on their phones throwing a light on who is accessing the data and how, he stated. The phones are also powered by NxtQuantum operating system, claimed to be Indias first sovereign mobile OS built on Android.

So far, the company hasnt been spending a lot of marketing. Instead, says Sheth, he would rather gain customer loyalty by launching right products at right pricing.
A few weeks after the commissioning of the country's third aircraft carrier, Fujian, China began the sea trial of Sichuan, a large amphibious assault ship fitted with an electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) to operate fighter planes, helicopters and drones.

EMALS can accelerate an aircraft's landing and take-off smoothly and quickly on the aircraft carrier deck.

China now has the world's largest operating fleet, with 234 warships compared to the United States Navy's 219.

According to the Chinese Navy, Sichuan, the first hull of China's Type 076 amphibious assault ship, set off from a port of Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai and sailed toward the relevant sea area for its maiden sea trial. Bearing the hull number 51, the assault ship has a full-load displacement of over 40,000 tonnes.

According to official media reports, Sichuan is the first amphibious ship fitted with EMALS, which uses electromagnetic linear motors powered by electricity, unlike traditional steam catapults.

State-run China Central Television (CCTV) News reported that Sichuan uses electromagnetic catapult and arrestment technologies to carry fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, amphibious equipment, and other assets. Xinhua news agency added that the vessel incorporates innovative electromagnetic catapult and arrestor technologies, enabling it to carry fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and amphibious equipment.

The sea trial, which comes after the mooring tests, equipment installation and system debugging, will mainly test and verify the reliability and stability of Sichuan's power, electrical and other systems.

China currently has three aircraft carriers: Liaoning, a refit of the Soviet-era ship commissioned in 2012; Shandong, built indigenously and operationalized in 2019; and Fujian, commissioned earlier this month. Beijing is also developing new fighter aircraft, including the J-15T, J-35, and KongJing-600, to operate from aircraft carriers.
Perhaps it is about time. With Indias Northeast region being the only major theatre of conflict in India in the Second World War, with the China-Burma-India (CBI) area seeing some of the most fierce battles, it is only natural that the region was the setting to many a critical battle that impacted the course of the Second Great War.

While the battles of Imphal and Kohima in 1944 had received some amount of recognition when the Allied forces repelled a major Japanese invasion of India, there are many untold stories that brought out the bravery and valour of Indian soldiers in the British Army.

These stories had been buried under a narrative the British espoused in order to undermine the nationalistic fervor that was growing among Indians. Remember, this was just after the Quit India movement of 1942. As Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi pointed out, the British narrative of Indias military history was deliberately faked to suit the strategic aims of the colonial power by crushing Indian morale.

The third edition of Indian Military Heritage Festival (IMHF), being held on Friday and Saturday in New Delhi, may have made an attempt to document many such stories. The IMHF is hosted by the United Service Institution of India, a leading think tank.

Many a battle came to light in the series of talks titled 'The War India Forgot'. Three prominent mentions here are the works of writers Gautam Hazarika (The Forgotten Indian Prisoners of World War II: Surviving Hell Under the Japanese), Sima Saigal (The Second World War and Northeast India: Shadows of Yesteryears) and David Allison (Fight your way out: The Siege of Shangshak).

And then there was an interesting and revealing conversation between prominent journalist writer Rajeev Bhattacharyya, author of several books including 'ULFA: The Mirage of Dawn' and Lieutenant General Vikas Lakhera, director general of Assam Rifles, in a session that was ably moderated by Col Vivek Chadha (retd).

An expert on the Northeast besides Bangladesh and Myanmar, Bhattacharyya held out the future prospects for the region based on the past and the present trends, while Gen Lakhera provided an overview of the respective states and their surrounding region.

The restive Northeast also featured prominently in the discussion themed 'BSF and Bangladesh'.
The final trailer of Vilaayath Buddha was launched on Friday at Lulu Mall, Kochi. At the event, which saw the attendance of lead star Prithviraj Sukumaran and the principal crew members, the actor addressed the Pushpa comparisons, clarifying doubts some raised about the Malayalam film, which revolves around a sandalwood smuggler.

Based on GR Indugopan's novel of the same name, Vilaayath Buddha was jointly scripted by the author and Rajesh Pinnadan. The film was initially meant to be directed by filmmaker Sachy (Ayyappanum Koshiyum); however, his untimely demise led to the project being taken over instead by his associate Jayan Nambiar.

"When Sachy first conceived this idea and brought it to me, Pushpa - Part 1 hadn't even come out. Back then, we didn't know that another movie about a sandalwood smuggler was in the works, and, after release, it would go on to make a nationwide phenomenon," he said at the event. "Unfortunately, when Vilaayath Buddha was nearing completion, both Pushpa 1 and 2 had come out, and the character had become such a rage by then. So we are acknowledging that (the allusion in the trailer).

Prithviraj expects anyone who hasn't yet read Vilaayath Buddha to naturally make comparisons to the Allu Arjun-starrer. We are totally aware of that. The dialogue in question was meant to be only for the promo and may not end up in the final film. The character (of Double Mohanan) bears no resemblance to Pushpa," he assured.

Vilaayath Buddha began filming in 2022, and was shot over multiple schedules in the last three years owing to the actor's other commitments  his directorial L2: Empuraan and an unforeseen injury while filming an action sequence for the former. The release has been officially confirmed for November 21, 2025.

At the event, Prithviraj also addressed the criticisms against some of his recent work and expressed no qualms about accepting brickbats since it's "Malayali audiences that brought him up" and that they have "every right" to do that. Acknowledging his limitations, Prithviraj said he can promise only one thing  giving his 100% and that there has never been a time when he gave less than that.
Hyderabad's cybercrime police have arrested Immadhi Ravi, a key administrator and operator of the piracy website iBomma. He was taken into custody in Kukatpally after he arrived in Hyderabad from France on Friday.

Investigators said that Ravi ran the platform remotely from the Caribbean Islands. Ravi reportedly oversaw the uploading and distribution of pirated Telugu films and OTT content through the website. The Rs 3 crore in his bank account has also been frozen.

The Telugu film Anti-Piracy Team had previously filed a complaint with the police against the website iBomma for pirating and distributing newly released Telugu movies. Telugu police had detained operators of the website in the past. They had launched a widespread investigation which led to them tracking Ravis movements abroad.

Officials are also searching for other members of he network who are involved in running the platform. Digital forensics and financial trails are also being examined.

In September, the Hyderabad cybercrime police booked 65 mirror websites including iBomma and Bappam platforms for illegally uploading and distributing content.

The Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce had filed a complaint that the industry was facing massive losses due to piracy, with an estimated Rs 2,200 loss calculated over the years.

Police had a meeting with the Telugu Film fraternity detailing the piracy. They had identified several piracy portals, including TamilMV, Tamil Blasters, and Movierulz. They said that the cybercrime network recorded films in-theatre and leaked the recordings online.
Only a healthy India can be a developed India, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals and Fertilizers Anupriya Patel said as she opened THE WEEK Health Summit 2025. Her words set the summits tone, a call to action that urges policymakers, clinicians, innovators, and citizens to collectively drive Indias next chapter in health care transformation.

The ministers keynote was a sweeping articulation of the governments roadmap, shaped by the lessons of Covid-19 and the growing burden of non-communicable diseases. Pandemics can hit us anytime, she warned. Universal health coverage is not a choice, it is a must. A nation of 1.4 billion, she said, demands a health system that is not just reactive but resilient, decentralised and digitally empowered.

At THE WEEK Health Summit, Dr. Sunny Jain, Medical Oncologist, shares key insights on how India can strengthen breast cancer screening in rural areas. From awareness to accessibility, he highlights what must change to ensure early detection reaches every woman.



(The Week Health pic.twitter.com/2gLEnBg07P  THE WEEK (@TheWeekLive) November 15, 2025

Before her address, Riyad Mathew, Chief Associate Editor and Director of THE WEEK, welcomed the minister and the audience. He reaffirmed the magazines enduring commitment to health journalism and its role in bridging public understanding across urban, semi-urban and rural India. We see ourselves as part of this movement with the Government of India, he said, underscoring the summits theme: learning from global best practices while honouring Indias own strides.

Governments strategic approach to strengthening health care infrastructure

Patels speech highlighted the governments efforts to expand health budgets year after year, coupled with decisive structural reforms. A major focus, she said, has been strengthening primary and secondary health care so that tertiary centres do not crumble under pressure. The establishment of 23 AIIMS, the expansion of medical seats, and investments in district-level care reflect this push toward decentralised access.

At the heart of this strategy is prevention. Health care is not only the responsibility of the minister but of every citizen, she said. Initiatives like Ayushman Arogya Mandirs aim to fortify primary care at the grassroots, promoting early detection and preventive practices. Public-private partnerships, she added, are being encouraged through programmes like the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Health Project, ensuring that Indias health infrastructure grows on both public and private pillars.

The minister outlined the governments five foundational pillars for the sectorpreventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative and palliative care. She called GST 2.0 a game changer, pointing to exemptions on life-saving drugs as proof that fiscal reforms are complementing health reforms. On tuberculosis, Patel said Indias integrated strategy is showing outcomes: a 17.7 per cent decline in TB cases, which she described as a result of a sustained 360-degree approach.

Digital health transformation: Building resilience for future pandemics

Digital health formed another core theme of her address. The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, unique health IDs for all citizens, teleconsultations through e-Sanjivini, and blood-bank digitisation through e-Raktkosh are not just technological add-ons, she argued; they are transforming Indias health ecosystem. We have learnt from Covid, and we understand the importance of self-reliance, she said, pointing to the governments push to manufacture medical devices domestically.

Patel also revealed that the government is preparing a National Action Plan for future pandemics, an anticipatory framework to ensure that India never again finds itself unprepared for global health emergencies.

The summit carried not just policy, but culture. A serene Bharatnatyam prayer dance by Bhadra Sinha and Gayatri offered a meditative pause, capturing the harmony between wellness, tradition and resilience.

Today, the minister has given us a comprehensive and candid view of Indias healthcare landscape, the challenges ahead, and how her team intends to work in the coming months," said THE WEEK's Resident Editor, Delhi, R. Prasannan.

THE WEEK Health Summit 2025 became a crucible of ideas, where Indias best minds reflected on challenges and solutions, and where the ministers message resonated through every session, health is a shared national priority. To build a developed India, she reminded the audience, the nation must first build a healthy one.
Member of Parliament Bansuri Swaraj laid out an expansive vision for a healthier and more inclusive India, emphasising stronger primary healthcare, technology-driven diagnostics, and a renewed focus on womens health. Health cannot be taken lightly, she said at THE WEEK Health Summit 2025. She stressed that India must build a robust, formidable healthcare campaign that leaves no citizen behind.

In a session moderated by Pratul Sharma, THE WEEKs Senior Assistant Editor, Swaraj said the Modi government has already started preparing for the challenges of a rapidly ageing population, highlighting expansions in medical infrastructure and insurance coverage. We now have more AIIMS, and the need of the hour is to deploy technology smartly so that patients across India, and not just in metros, benefit, she said.

One of the flagship assurances she underlined was the Rs 5 lakh annual health cover, which she said already supports every senior citizen above 70 years of age. Complementing this safety net, the governments push for primary healthcare through Arogya Mandirs is creating robust, accessible touch points for preventive and routine care across the country, she highlighted. Recently conducted nationwide cancer screenings, she added, were an example of how a proactive approach can improve early detection rates.

Swaraj also pointed to Indias expanding global footprint in health diplomacy. Recalling her visits to African nations after Operation Sindoor, she said, Every country thanked India for supplying Covid-19 vaccines when the world needed them the most. This, she said, is a testament to how India is emerging as a leader on the world map.

Touching on the legacy of her mother, the late Sushma Swaraj, she said the former external affairs and health ministers compassion and commitment to public welfare continue to guide Indias health policies. She was the driving force behind the initial momentum for strengthening AIIMS, and she worked ardently for menstrual health, Swaraj said. Menstrual hygiene, she added, remains an essential but under-discussed aspect of public health.

A significant part of her address was dedicated to womens health, which she described as the foundation of a healthy society. A woman is the fulcrum of the family. When she is healthy, the family is healthy, she said. The governments 15-day campaign Swasthya Nari, Sashakt Parivaroffers free diagnostics at the nearest Arogya Mandir to encourage women to seek timely care without financial barriers. Under Ayushman Bharat, she said, women continue to be the primary beneficiaries due to higher awareness and rising health-seeking behaviour.

Swaraj highlighted that 16 crore patients have already benefited from life-saving interventions such as transplants under government schemes. The success of the CoWIN platform, she said, demonstrated how technology can eliminate gaps in vaccine access and ensure transparency in public health programmes.

She also addressed the mental health concerns of Indias youth, warning that todays crisis is the chase for likes. The antidote, she said, lies in communication, mindfulness, and physical activity. Yoga and Pilates are the need of the hour, she said, advocating for a holistic health approach that integrates traditional practices like panchakarma with modern medicine.

On the growing appetite for health technology among Gen Z and millennials, Swaraj was optimistic: They are using everything from smartwatches to glucose monitors whatever makes life healthier and easier.

Looking ahead, she said the single biggest change she is excited about is the rise of AI in healthcare diagnostics. Citing a recent case where a friend faced delayed cancer treatment due to a diagnostic error, she said AI-driven systems could be transformative. These errors are heartbreaking. Timely medicine exists but accuracy in diagnosis is key.

As India moves towards a more digitised, inclusive, and preventive healthcare model, Swarajs message was clear, health is empowerment, and a purposeful life is a powerful life. Sixty-five is no longer an age to retire.
At least eight police officers were killed after an accidental explosion ripped through the Nowgam police station in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday night. The incident occurred while the cops were inspecting samples of explosive materials seized earlier in Faridabad as part of an investigation into a "white-collar" terror module case, according to officials.

Reports indicate several others sustained serious injuries in the blast.

Shocking visuals from Nowgam, India pic.twitter.com/ubFEWEb9LO  Divya Gandotra Tandon (@divya_gandotra) November 15, 2025

The 360kg of explosive material was brought to Nowgam from Faridabad by the Jammu and Kashmir police. It was recovered from the rented residence of Dr Muzammil Shakeel, one of the eight individuals arrested so far in connection with this ongoing terror module investigation.

It was not immediately clear if the entire 360kg of explosives was being stored at the police station, where the "white-collar" terror module case was officially registered on October 19.

The blast damaged several vehicles parked within the premises. Several fire engines were rushed to the spot, and all access roads to the police station were temporarily closed.

Authorities had recently confiscated approximately 2,900kg of ammonium nitrate, which included the 360kg mentioned earlier, and other materials used for making explosives from two rooms rented by Muzammil in Dhauj and Fatehpur Taga villages, on the outskirts of Faridabad.

The 35-year-old doctor from Pulwama, in Jammu and Kashmir, was a faculty member at Al-Falah Medical College. He was arrested two weeks ago, following a probe into radical posters that appeared in the Kashmir Valley. His interrogation led the Jammu and Kashmir Police to the alleged Jaish-e-Mohammad network operating in Faridabad, and also to the recovery of explosive materials.

Investigators suspect that this entire operation was managed by a central group of three doctors, including Umar un Nabi, who drove the explosives-laden car that detonated near the Red Fort on November 10 killing 13 people, and Muzzaffar Rather, who is absconding.
An Indian Sikh woman who travelled to Pakistan as part of a group of pilgrims visiting the country for Guru Nanak Jayanti went missing, police said.

An Urdu document that has now surfaced suggests that the woman allegedly converted to Islam and married a Pakistani local just days after she went missing from the group.

Sarabjit Kaur, 52, who is from Amnipur village in Punjab, Kapurthala, was part of a group of pilgrims who travelled to the Pakistan on November 4 to celebrate the 556th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev. She was part of a delegation of about 1,923 Sikh members or a Jatha, led by the Jathedar of the Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj. The pilgrimage was part of a bilateral agreement between the two countries that facilitates visits to religious shrines. The group had travelled to the neighbouring country via the Attariwagah border.

The Jatha spent 10 days visiting the gurdwaras in the country, and then 1,922 members returned to India on Thursday. The missing woman triggered major security concerns for both countries. She had allegedly not mentioned her citizenship and passport number on the immigration form, and her name was missing from both Pakistans exit records and Indias re-entry log, The Indian Express reported. Officials from both India and Pakistan are trying to trace Kaur after the immigration department informed the Punjab police. The Indian authorities are in touch with Pakistani authorities, IANS reported.

The documents that have now surfaced are an Urdu Nikahnama, an Islamic wedding contract and Kaur's passport. The information suggested that she married Nasir Husain, a resident of Sheikhupura, which is 56 kilometres away from Lahore. It was also suggested that she had converted to Islam and changed her name to Noor before her marriage. The authenticity of the document has not been independently verified.

Kaur was divorced and had two sons with Karnail Singh, who was living in England for 30 years, NDTV reported.

Last month, the government allowed Sikh devotees to cross the border about two weeks after refusing permission over security concerns. Pakistan officials had also refused permission to 14 Hindus from Delhi who had tried to accompany the Sikh group. After the Pahalgam attack, India had tightened its travel restrictions, barring foreign passport holders from crossing the Attari border.
Both the Union Home Ministry and the Jammu and Kashmir Police have ruled out a terror angle in the blast that ripped through a police station in Nowgam, killing nine people and injuring 30 others on Friday night.

Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP), Nalin Prabhat, termed it an accidental explosion during a mandated forensic procedure and stressed that any speculation about the incident was unnecessary.

According to police, the deceased included one State Investigative Agency (SIA) personnel, three members of the Forensic Science Laboratory team, two crime scene photographers, two revenue officials who were part of the magistrates team, and one tailor.

In addition, 27 police personnel, two revenue officials and 3 civilians from the adjacent areas have received injuries, who were immediately evacuated to the nearest hospital, Prabhat said.

#WATCH | Blast near Nowgam Police Station in J&K last night | Srinagar | J&K DGP Nalin Prabhat says, "During the investigation in FIR 162 of 2025 of PS Nowgam, a huge quantity of explosive substances, chemicals and regents were also recovered from Faridabad on 9th and 10th of pic.twitter.com/Xs55Nve64t  ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2025

The DGP acknowledged that the blast, which took place around 11.20 pm, was linked to the major seizure of explosive materials, chemicals, and reagents recovered from Haryanas Faridabad on November 9 and 10.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have busted a terror module with imprints of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed after it conducted multiple raids in Faridabad and seized nearly 3,000 kilograms of ammonium nitrate, potassium chlorate and sulphur. Nine people, including three doctors, have been arrested in the case.

Dr Umar Un Nabi, who drove the explosive-laden car during the recent blast near Delhis Red Fort, was a suspect in the Faridabad module.

Explosion felt 15 km away

The Nowgam police station explosion was so heavy that people living more than 15 kilometres away felt its impact, reports said on Saturday.

CCTV visuals circulating on social media showed smoke billowing from the area and firefighters battling to extinguish the flames. Several vehicles have been gutted in the fire.

#WATCH | Blast near Nowgam Police Station in J&K last night | Srinagar: Family members of those who died or got injured attempt to enter the area around the Nowgam Police Station that has been cordoned off. Houses around the area have suffered damages and the injured have been pic.twitter.com/q9uISBKcw4  ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2025

The police station was almost destroyed in the blast, which also impacted several surrounding buildings.

According to some reports, body parts were thrown in neighbouring houses about 300 metres away.

Accidental incident, says MHA

Earlier, the Union Home Ministry termed the blast at Nowgam police station an accidental incident during a routine procedure of processing and forwarding the recovered explosive material for forensic and chemical examination.

"During the investigation in FIR No. 162/2025, officials recovered a large cache of explosive substances and chemicals, which had been stored in the open area of the police station as per procedure, said Prashant Lokhande, Joint Secretary, Jammu and Kashmir Division (MHA).

#WATCH | Delhi | Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs J&K Division Prashant Lokhande says, "Yesterday, on 14th November at 11:20 PM, in an unfortunate accidental incident, a massive explosion took place inside the Nowgam Police Station in Jammu and Kashmir. The Nowgam pic.twitter.com/BDdcT7P3vM  ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2025

"The government stands in solidarity with the families of the deceased in this hour of grief and assures all possible support to the injured," he said.
Ukrainian among 38 new US citizens sworn in

A UKRAINIAN was among the 38 new U.S. citizens who were sworn in at a naturalization ceremony held Monday at the District Court for the NMI.

Oleksandr Galadzhii, a pharmacist, expressed his happiness in becoming a U.S. citizen. I am very happy. This is important. I have waited for more than 10 years for this.

He said he will be an active citizen, and will register to vote.

Asked about the conflict in Ukraine, Galadzhii said, Its a terrible situation, and I hope a resolution can be found as soon as possible. He thanked all the nations that support and help Ukraine.

Ukraine will win, he added.

Another new U.S. citizen, Mark Anthony Tesero, said he is excited and at the same time happy. God is really good. God is amazing.

Tesero, who has worked as a warehouse supervisor for almost a decade, plans to move to Indiana. God is simply amazingwe have been waiting for this opportunity. My family and I will be moving to the states.

The other new citizens who were naturalized on Monday morning were Maria Luz Lingal Bocago, Demy Villaganas Carpio, Reynaldo Salas Darag, Nenita Velasquez Delos Santos, Jeffry Manarang Fernandez, Juanita Ebba Kaijo, Wilfredo Manlutac Lagason, Maria Ronita Angeles Mallari, Juvy Balagot Martinez, Eduardo Binag Olarte, Elmer Evangelista Pineda, Teresa Tellei Pineda, Jina Ong Sablan, Kyung Ran Seo, Danielle Youn Jung Su, Lorna Nieves Tereyama and Iosefatu Tuigamala.

In the afternoon, the following new U.S. citizens were sworn in: Gabriel Agbayani Alcaraz, Nena Laparejo Babauta, Gina Boan Bacani, Agripino Soriano Buniag, Teofilo llabarda Dallimocon Jr., Imelda Riola Deleon, Nazmal Hoque, Chin Shan Hsieh, Elizabeth Mesa Licup, Francisca Barriga Pinaula, Orlando Olalia Pineda, Mihir Rashmi Rout, Joice Santos Sablan, Mustafa Fakhruddin Shakir, Nazario Alido Sumacpang, Tatiana Tsoi, Lolita De Castro Turlao, Francisco Abalo Villamin Jr. and Maryjoy Alcuran Yebra.

Patricia Phelan, U.S. Citizenship and Immigrations Services officer, made the motion in court to accept the applicants as new citizens.

Presiding over the special sessions, Chief Judge Ramona V. Manglona granted Phelans motion and welcomed the new U.S. citizens to the American family.

Lt. Cmdr. Christine Torres Igisomar, maritime advisor, U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam, was the guest speaker.

You all have taken a journey, some taking more time than others to complete, she said. You should be lauded for the work you have done to become a citizen but you still have a rewarding and demanding task ahead of you. And that is the hard work of active citizenship. You have rights, you have responsibilities and now you have to focus and write the next chapter in this great American story  for immigration is the nations story. For over 200 years, it determines the core of the nations character. Its really Americas oldest tradition. Its what makes this nation exceptional. And through the centuries immigrants had come to our shores, rolled up their sleeves and built the America you now know.

She added, Today is not the final step in your journey. President John F. Kennedy said no form of government requires more of its citizens than does the American democracy. Our system of self-government depends on ordinary citizens doing the hard, frustrating but essential work of citizenship. Of being informed. Of understanding that government is not some distant thing in Washington, D.C., but its you. Democracy is hard work, and requires effort from all of us. Its not only just following the law, but also to engage in the community, and to speak up if things are wrong, and to vote. To not only exercise your rights but to assure your fellow citizens are not hindered from exercising theirs. And its my job to support you. I put on this uniform every day for the past 20 years, and willingly give up my own rights as a citizen so that you can fully enjoy yours. Regardless of my personal opinion of how you choose to exercise your rights, I consider it the honor of my life to watch fellow Americans live a full life guaranteed by our democracy. Trust that my brothers and sisters in uniform remain dedicated to your guarantee of the entire scope of rights you now hold as citizens. These rights are our great inheritance. In order to fully enjoy our inheritance, we need to keep building an America that we can be proud of, no matter who we are, what we look like, whom we love, or what we believe. You should not forget your history and your past that add to the richness of American life. But you are now Americans. You have obligations as citizens, and I am absolutely confident you will set a good example for all of us, because you know how precious this thing is  its not something to take for granted. Its for you to cherish and to fight for.

Oleksandr Galadzhii, his wife Ksenia Lizunova, and daughter Eva at the District Court for the NMI after the naturalization ceremony on Monday.

The new U.S. citizens who were sworn in Monday morning pose for a photo with Chief Judge Ramona V. Manglona of the District Court for the NMI, U.S Coast Guard Lt. Cmdr. Christine Torres Igisomar and U.S. Citizenship and Immigrations Services Officer Patricia Phelan.
Rohini Acharya Lalu Yadavs daughter announced that she is quitting politics and disowning her family on Saturday. She made the announcement just a day after the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan suffered a major blow in the 2025 Bihar Asembly elections.

Im quitting politics and Im disowning my family 

This is what Sanjay Yadav and Rameez had asked me to do nd Im taking all the blames  Rohini Acharya (@RohiniAcharya2) November 15, 2025

Acharya announced her decision on X, saying "Im quitting politics and Im disowning my family."

She also said that she was persuaded into making the decision by Sanay Yadav and Rameez. This is what Sanjay Yadav and Rameez had asked me to do nd Im taking all the blame, she added.

Acharyas post had initially only mentioned her quitting from politics and severing ties with her family. The post was later edited to add the part about Sanjay and Rameez.

Sanjay Yadav is an RJD member and a senior political advisor to Rohinis brother and party leader Tejashwi Yadav.

Acharya had previously shown her displeasure with Sanjays influence at the party. She had said, "You can make Sanjay Yadav an MP or MLA, but Lalu Prasad Yadav cannot make him sit on the chair."

She is not the first to sever ties to the party; right before the Bihar Assembly elections, Lalu Yadav had expelled his oldest son, Tej Pratap Yadav, from the party and disowned him. He went on to form his own party and contest the elections.

In 2022, Acharya donated a kidney to her father Lalu Prasad Yadav. The procedure was performed in Singapore and both made quick recovery.

The BJP and JDU-led NDA swept the seats in the Bihar Assembly elections by winning 202 seats out of 243, after the polls were declared on Friday. The RJD was left with just 26 seats in the Mahagatbandhan coalition.
The decision of the Indian National Congress to go solo in the Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections (BMC polls) was criticised by its ally in the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA). It was Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) that fired a shot at the Grand Old Party for not learning anything from its terrible show in the Bihar Assembly elections 2025.

"Congress has taken this decision despite seeing the decline of the party in Bihar. Whether this decision is right or wrong will be proved in the next few days," Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and former Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar was quoted as saying by Marathi media reports. Further questioning the decision of the Grand Old Party to go alone in the upcoming civic body elections, Pednekar said the Congress high-ups should revisit the decision in the light of recent performances.

Their leaders should learn from the overall decline in Bihar. Even after seeing the fall, if they want to contest the elections on their own, then let it be. No one can stop them. Only their leaders can stop them (from fighting alone). Those who are deciding to contest the elections on their own may think it is right. But the big question is whether they, as the party chief, think it is right, Loksatta quoted Pednekar as saying.

Following a meeting of Congress leaders in Mumbai on Saturday, it was reportedly decided that it will contest the Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections alone. Congress party Maharashtra in-charge Ramesh Chennithala confirmed the decision later while interacting with the media.

Meanwhile, the news report added that the constant communication between the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) could be among the factors working against Congress saying yes to an alliance. Reports indicate talks are progressing in the hope of the Thackeray cousins putting up a united front ahead of the elections. The leaders of both the parties are meeting regularly. However, it is being said that Congress is opposed to taking MNS along due to differences with the rather aggressive MNS.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls are expected to take place in early 2026. The last BMC election was held in 2017. No single party won a clear majority in the house with a total of 227 seats. The Congress had managed to win 31 seats back then.
As the NIA investigation into the Delhi blast case progresses, it has been reported that a highly volatile chemical called 'Mother of Satan', also known as TATP, was found in the Hyundai i20 car that exploded near the Red Fort metro station.

The TATP was allegedly mixed with ammonium nitrate by the suspects, according to sources in the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL). The same chemical was allegedly present in the explosives kept at Nowgam Police Station in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to a deadly blast that killed eight.

What is 'Mother of Satan'?

Triacetone triperoxide (TATP), also known as acetone peroxide, is given the nickname 'Mother of Satan' due to its high risk of accidental detonation while manufacturing or transporting. This highly unstable white crystalline powder is sensitive to friction, shock, heat and static electricity.

Unlike conventional explosives like TNT, 'Mother of Satan' does not contain nitrogen, making it difficult to track using outdated detection scanners. Military forces generally avoid relying on TATP due to its high volatility and instead use more predictable and powerful explosives.

'Mother of Satan' has been infamous for its use in the 2005 bombings in London, the 2015 Paris attacks, the 2016 bombings in Brussels, the 2017 bombing in Manchester Arena and the 2019 Easter bombings in Sri Lanka.

Hyundai i20 and the 'premature' blast

Earlier reports indicated that the Hyundai i20 car driven by suspect Umar un Nabi on November 10 was slowly approaching a traffic signal when it exploded. Reports now suggest that he might have been driving slow because of the TATP, which could detonate with minor bump or shock. This also backs earlier claims that the Delhi blast might have been accidental, just like the explosion at Nowgam police station. Sources from security agencies earlier said the bomb was 'premature', pointing out the absence of shrapnels as well as lack of craters beneath the car after the explosion.

CCTV footage from the underground Red Fort Metro Station showed the ground shaking during the blast. More than 90 kg of explosives were reportedly stored in the exploded car.
The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) has found the presence of explosive triacetone triperoxide (TATP) in the i20 car linked to the Delhi Red Fort Metro Station blast case that claimed 13 lives, a report said.

ALSO READ | Body language of Delhi Red Fort suicide bomber Umar Un Nabi shows he was trained to be Fidayeen

A highly unstable chemical compound known primarily as a homemade explosive (HME) that is difficult to detect using traditional methods, TATP is referred to by the media and security agencies as the "Mother of Satan" due to its inherent instability and danger. The probe team has also learnt that TATP was mixed with ammonium nitrate in the material recovered from the Faridabad terror module, News 18 claimed on Saturday.

The investigation team now suspects the presence of the highly unstable TATP could have caused the car to explode, the report added. The substance is likely to have caused the blast at the Nowgam Police Station in Jammu and Kashmir which killed nine as well. The massive blast occurred when authorities were extracting samples from a large cache of explosives confiscated in the "white-collar terror module" case and was stored at the premises of Nowgam Police Station on the outskirts of Srinagar.

READ HERE | Faridabad terror module 'link': Eight killed in Srinagar police station blast: What caused the explosion?

Among the deceased were State Investigation Agency Inspector Israr Ahmad Shah, Selection Grade Constables Javaid Mansoor Rather and Arshid Ahmad Shah (both Crime Branch photographers), Selection Grade Constable Aijaz Afzal Mir and Constables Mohammad Amin Mir and Showkat Ahmad Bhat (all three working with the Forensic Science Laboratory).

Faridabad terror module probe update

Meanwhile, in a parallel operation in Nuh, investigating agencies detained another man, identified as Dinesh alias Dabbu, for selling fertilisers without a licence.

ALSO READ | Who are Sadia Azhar and Afira Bibi? Delhi blast plotter Dr Shaheen was in touch with wives of Kandahar, Pulwama masterminds

It has emerged that the members of the terror module had pooled around Rs 26 lakh to buy explosive substances and spent Rs 3 lakh out of it to purchase NPK fertiliser, which is commonly used to make bombs.

It is being probed whether Dinesh sold the fertiliser to the suspects and if his activities extended beyond the illegal trade, officials said.

Separately, the officials said that Dr Shaheen Sayeed, another Al Falah University doctor arrested in connection with the terror module case, had recently applied for a passport.
Settler violence in the occupied West Bank has surged to levels not seen in many years, creating growing alarm among Palestinian communities, Israeli security officials, and international observers.

The latest incidentthe burning of a mosque in the village of Deir Istiya on Fridayhas become a stark example of what many describe as a deteriorating security environment shaped by political shifts, a permissive climate for extremist activity, and a widening gap in the treatment of Palestinians and Israelis under occupation.

The attacks are not new, but they have never been like this or reached this deep inside the village, says Imam Ahmad Salma, who found his mosque in the occupied West Bank town of Deir Istiya on fire after Israeli settlers vandalised it in the early hours of Thursday. pic.twitter.com/4ZOirT4gOT  Middle East Eye (@MiddleEastEye) November 14, 2025

Although the mosque was empty during the attack, the fire destroyed Qurans, scorched the prayer hall, and left graffiti insulting the Prophet and mocking senior Israeli military commanders. For Palestinians, it was yet another sign of a crisis that has intensified since the Hamas attack against Israel in October 2023.

According to human rights experts and international monitors, settler attacks against Palestinians and their property have accelerated both in frequency and severity.

October recorded the highest number of documented incidents in nearly two decades, reflecting a pattern of intimidation that has displaced many Palestinian families from rural areas. The violence has included assaults on villages such as Beit Lid and Deir Sharaf, where masked groups set fire to cars, targeted a Bedouin community and torched trucks belonging to a Palestinian dairy company. During the olive harvest, a time of economic significance for many Palestinian families, hundreds of trees were damaged and farmers were assaulted or forced from their fields.

One of the most significant factors behind the growing settler violence is the widespread sense of impunity.

Human rights organisations and UN agencies have repeatedly concluded that investigations into settler violence rarely lead to indictments. Palestinians argue that this failure to hold perpetrators accountable encourages further attacks.

Israeli military officers have expressed similar frustrations, noting that law enforcement in the territory is hampered by political decisions that limit the ability of security forces to restrain violent settlers. This year, the government restricted the use of administrative detention against Israeli citizens: a measure previously employed against settlers deemed at risk of planning attacks. The move was regarded by some commanders as a political concession to hardline factions.

A second driver of the violence is the broader political climate in Israel. Netanyahus far-right coalition contains several leaders from the settler movement who encourage settlement expansion and are completely opposed to the two-state solution.

It has turned out into a clear signal to extremist settlers that they enjoy political support and cover. Ministers in key positions have advanced policies that Palestinians believe aim to entrench Israeli control over the West Bank.

Critics describe an environment in which the boundary between state authority and the agenda of radical settler groups has become increasingly blurred. Palestinians accuse the government of using these groups to consolidate territorial claims by making life untenable for local communities.

A third factor is the strategic goal of changing the demographic landscape of the West Bank. International observers warn that attacks on farmers, destruction of property, and harassment of rural communities contribute to a pattern of forced displacement.

Villages located near isolated outposts face the greatest pressure, particularly when security forces fail to intervene or are perceived to act selectively. In some cases, soldiers have even been filmed standing by as settlers carry out assaults. Although the senior IDF leadership says that such conduct is against the law and must be stopped, Palestinians allege complicity.

Finally, tensions within the Israeli security establishment could be another reason for the surge in the violence. Senior officers have issued public statements condemning settler violence, acknowledging that it undermines stability and the rule of law. The armys Chief of Staff, Lt Gen Eyal Zamir, and the regional commander, Maj Gen Avi Bluth, both stressed that soldiers must actively intervene to prevent nationalist crime.

However, several commanders reportedly urged the government to restore tools such as administrative detention against violent settlers after seeing the rise in organised attacks. Their appeals reflect a broader institutional struggle between security professionals who prioritise order and political leaders who are reluctant to confront extremist elements amongst their own supporters.

Israeli authorities have occasionally issued strong condemnations and made arrests, but suspects are often released soon afterwards. Palestinian officials view this as further evidence that the government bears responsibility for the violence either through inaction or explicit policy choices. They warn that the objective is to drive Palestinians from their land and prevent the emergence of an independent state.

The United Nations, European governments and regional states (such as Jordan) have called for investigations and an end to settlement expansion. The United States has also expressed growing unease. The mosque arsonalong with a series of attacks near Nablusoccurred as diplomats attempted to maintain a fragile ceasefire in Gaza. Washington fears that escalating violence in the West Bank could destabilise the wider region, complicate negotiations, and inflame an already volatile situation.

As the cycle of attacks, retaliation and political paralysis continues, many observers argue that the failure to confront settler violence threatens not only Palestinian lives but also the authority of the Israeli security system and the prospects of any long-term political resolution. The sense of urgency is shared across international offices and even among some Israeli military leaders, who warn that without meaningful accountability, the situation is likely to deteriorate further.

It was this context that led the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to caution that settler violence could undermine wider diplomatic efforts and spill over into the conflict in Gaza:

"There is some concern about events in the West Bank spilling over and creating an effect that could undermine what we are doing in Gaza ... we do not expect it to."
According to the United Nations International Organisation for Migration (IOM), this week, 42 migrants were presumed dead after a shipwreck near Libya. It includes 29 Sudanese, three from Cameroon, and two from Nigeria. With a total of 49 migrants on board, the rubber vessel departed from the northwestern coastal town of Zuwara. It is not new, because, as per the IOM, by the end of October 2025, around 527 people lost their lives off the Libyan coast in 2025 alone. The scenario not only explains these migrants vulnerable condition, but also the other side of Libyas flourishing migrant smuggling economy.

Nirmalshankar M

The term flourishing aptly describes Libyas migrant smuggling economy in 2025. It does not imply chaos; instead, it signifies the maturation of a decentralised, brutal, and highly profitable market that has evolved from a simple pay-to-passage service into a core component of Libyas entrenched conflict economy. As of 2025, the profit-driven industry is not thriving, despite the Libyan state, but rather through its political fragmentation, has evolved into a sophisticated abuse-for-profit business model.

From the study conducted by Chatham House in 2016, migrant smuggling and trafficking generated US$978 million within that year. A separate 2025 analysis by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) estimates from 2021 that the armed groups earned US$1 billion annually from trafficking and EU-funded detention contracts. To better understand this condition, it is essential to examine the state of Libya.

The bedrock of this entire economy is the collapse of the Libyan state. The 2011 ousting of Muammar Gaddafi did not just create a power vacuum, but it also shattered the states monopoly on violence and borders. In its place, a constellation of competing militias, tribes, and quasi-governmental bodies emerged. Each of these entities controls small and resource-rich fiefdoms. Currently, Libya remains divided between the Government of National Unity (GNU) in Tripoli and the Libyan Arab Armed Forces (LAAF) backed Libyan Government in the east. However, this condition creates a fragile border and poor security inside the state.

Inside this vacuum, a web of armed groups, local militias, and state-affiliated security forces has risen. The Human Rights Watch rightly pointed out that these are not just criminal gangs, but hybrid actors. Groups operating under the umbrella of the GNUs Ministry of Defence or the LAAFs successful infiltration and control of key state institutions, such as the Directorate for Combating Illegal Migration (DCIM) and units of the Libyan Coast Guard (LCG).

Meanwhile, according to the US State Department, in 2025, there is systemic official complicity in trafficking crimes. The criminalisation of the state, particularly in coastal cities like Zawiya, means that the people regulating the smuggling routes are the same who are receiving state salaries and, in many cases, international funding. Instead of bringing an end to the smuggling economy, these actors seek to manage and tax it. However, the economy is flourishing not only from a one-way boat trip, but through a detention-for-ransom cycle.

From the reports published by IOM this year, over 84 percent of migrants originated from Libyas six neighbouring countries: Niger (31 per cent), Egypt (26 per cent), Sudan (17 per cent), Chad (5 per cent), Tunisia (4 per cent), and Algeria (less than 1 per cent). Firstly, the smugglers use established networks to move migrants from countries like Sudan, Eritrea, Niger, and Chad (all these countries share a boundary with Libya) to southern Libyan cities like Sabha and Kufra.

Secondly, these migrants are sold or transported to coastal hubs. Here, the relationship shifts from client to smuggler to captive to captor. And thirdly, migrants are funnelled into a network of official and unofficial detention centres, which is described as unimaginable horror by the UN. Many of which are run by the very militias that control the region. Inside these centres, migrants are systematically tortured, starved, and subjected to sexual violence while being forced to call their families asking for ransoms.

International agencies, such as the European Union (EU), have made efforts to curb this illegal migration at their borders. The EUs border externalisation policy is one such case, which funnels hundreds of millions of euros into Libya to manage migration. Eventually, it became a direct subsidy for the trafficking industry. The policy continues to exist, which primarily funds, trains, and equips the LCG to intercept boats in the Mediterranean and return migrants to Libya. However, it has created a dire situation, where instead of returning migrants to safety, the LCG brings them to the DCIM-run detention centres. From there, the migrants are abused and illegally trafficked, generating revenues for the very militias the LCG aligned with.

The situation benefits Libyan actors, including the LAAFs Haftar, in the east and the militias in the west. It leveraged the threat of migration to extract political and financial concessions from Europe. In short, Libyas migrant smuggling economy is no longer a shadow economy; instead, it has become a regulated and systemic feature of the countrys political economy.

Nirmalshankar M is a doctoral candidate at the Centre for West Asian Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.
Bahraich (UP), Nov 15 (PTI) Security forces on Saturday detained two British passport holders -- a man and a woman, both doctors -- for allegedly entering India illegally from Nepal at the Rupaideha border in Bahraich district, officials said.

Following preliminary interrogation, the duo was handed over to the police who arrested the foreign nationals after registering a case, they added.

According to officials, personnel of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) and Uttar Pradesh Police intercepted the duo during intensified checking in the wake of the blast near Delhi's Red Fort.

Ganga Singh Udawat, Commandant of the SSB's 42nd Battalion, told PTI that around 10 am, two foreigners were stopped for verification after they crossed into India from Nepal.

"During scrutiny of their documents, it was found that both were British nationals and did not possess a valid Indian visa. They failed to provide any satisfactory reason for their entry into India," he said.

The detained man was identified as Dr Hassan Amman Saleem (35), son of Mohammad Saleem, of Pakistan origin. His current address is listed as Manchester, United Kingdom.

The woman was identified as Dr Sumitra Shakeel Olivia (61), daughter of John Frederick, originally from Udupi, Karnataka. She is a British passport holder, with her present address in Gloucester, United Kingdom.

Udawat said both claimed to be medical professionals and said they had travelled to Nepalganj in Nepal on the invitation of a local hospital.

However, they were unable to satisfactorily explain their attempt to enter India without valid travel documents.

"They have been handed over to Rupaideha police for further action," he added.

According to an official statement issued by Superintendent of Police, Ramanayan Singh, a case has been registered against the two individuals under the Passport Act, 1967.

They have been arrested and are being produced before a court, the police said.
Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta, S.A.B. de C.V. Sponsored ADR (NYSE:VTMX  Get Free Report)s stock price reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $31.64 and last traded at $31.23, with a volume of 66682 shares. The stock had previously closed at $31.30.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

VTMX has been the topic of several research analyst reports. Barclays raised their target price on Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta from $37.00 to $38.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 29th. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Sunday, October 26th. Zacks Research raised shares of Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, August 14th. Weiss Ratings restated a sell (d+) rating on shares of Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, UBS Group dropped their target price on shares of Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta from $36.00 to $35.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, September 15th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have issued a Buy rating, one has assigned a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $31.33.

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Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta Stock Down 0.2%

The businesss fifty day moving average price is $28.11 and its 200 day moving average price is $27.86. The firm has a market capitalization of $2.59 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 1,528.25, a PEG ratio of 5.01 and a beta of 0.71. The company has a current ratio of 2.97, a quick ratio of 2.97 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50.

Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta (NYSE:VTMX  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 23rd. The company reported $0.29 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.50 by ($0.21). Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta had a return on equity of 0.19% and a net margin of 1.83%.The business had revenue of $66.00 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.30 billion. Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. On average, equities analysts expect that Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta, S.A.B. de C.V. Sponsored ADR will post 2.2 EPS for the current year.

Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed an annual dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 22nd. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, October 14th were paid a dividend of $0.2025 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, October 14th. This represents a yield of 78.0%. This is a boost from Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vestas previous annual dividend of $0.20. Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vestas dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 850.00%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta

Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. ABC Arbitrage SA purchased a new position in Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta in the 1st quarter valued at $1,291,000. Anson Funds Management LP acquired a new position in shares of Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta during the first quarter worth about $1,251,000. Centersquare Investment Management LLC lifted its position in Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta by 4.9% in the third quarter. Centersquare Investment Management LLC now owns 366,102 shares of the companys stock valued at $10,357,000 after purchasing an additional 17,110 shares during the period. BNP Paribas Financial Markets boosted its holdings in Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta by 38.1% in the 2nd quarter. BNP Paribas Financial Markets now owns 37,116 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,017,000 after purchasing an additional 10,236 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Lazard Asset Management LLC increased its position in Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta by 6.6% during the 2nd quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 321,442 shares of the companys stock worth $8,803,000 after purchasing an additional 19,967 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 6.61% of the companys stock.

About Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta

(Get Free Report)

Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta, SAB. de C.V., together with its subsidiaries, acquires, develops, manages, operates, and leases industrial buildings and distribution facilities in Mexico. The company was incorporated in 1998 and is headquartered in Mexico City, Mexico.

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Trump threatens US military action in Nigeria over treatment of Christians

Security personnel patrol the streets amid a surge in violence in Mangu, Plateau State, Nigeria, Jan. 24, 2024, in this screengrab obtained from video. REUTERS

WASHINGTON/ABUJA (Reuters)  President Donald Trump on Saturday said he has asked the Defense Department to prepare for possible fast military action in Nigeria if the West African nation fails to crack down on the killing of Christians.

The U.S. government will also immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria, Africas most populous nation and top oil producer, Trump said in a post on Truth Social.

If the United States sends in military forces, it would go in guns-a-blazing, to completely wipe out the Islamic Terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities, Trump wrote, without providing any evidence of specifics about the treatment of Christians in Nigeria.

Trump called Nigeria a disgraced country and warned its government must move quickly. If we attack, it will be fast, vicious, and sweet, just like the terrorist thugs attack our CHERISHED Christians! he wrote.

Abuja had no immediate reaction to Trumps threat of military action. The White House also had no immediate comment on the potential timing of any U.S. military action.

Although the U.S. Department of Defense referred Reuters to the White House for comment on Trumps threat, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth released a social media post of his own.

The Department of War is preparing for action, Hegseth wrote on X. Either the Nigerian Government protects Christians, or we will kill the Islamic Terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities.

Trumps post on Nigeria came a day after his administration added Nigeria back to a Countries of Particular Concern list of nations that the U.S. says have violated religious freedom. Other nations on the list include China, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia and Pakistan.

Before Trump posted his attack threat, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu earlier on Saturday pushed back against claims of religious intolerance and defended his countrys efforts to protect religious freedom.

The characterization of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality, nor does it take into consideration the consistent and sincere efforts of the government to safeguard freedom of religion and beliefs for all Nigerians, Tinubu said in a statement, citing constitutional guarantees to protect citizens of all faiths.

Nigerias Foreign Ministry, in a separate statement, vowed to keep fighting violent extremism and said it hoped Washington would remain a close ally, saying it will continue to defend all citizens, irrespective of race, creed, or religion. Like America, Nigeria has no option but to celebrate the diversity that is our greatest strength.

The U.S. military footprint in West Africa was significantly diminished when about 1,000 troops withdrew from Niger last year. While the U.S. sometimes has small groups of troops in the region to take part in drills, the largest U.S. military base on the continent is in East Africa in Djibouti, which hosts over 5,000 troops and is used for operations in the region.

Trump had designated Nigeria a country of concern during his first term in the White House. His Democratic successor Joe Biden removed it from the U.S. State Department list in 2021.

On Friday, Trump said thousands of Christians were being killed in Nigeria by radical Islamists, but offered no details.

Nigeria, which has 200 ethnic groups practicing Christianity, Islam and traditional religions, has a long history of peaceful coexistence, but it has also seen flare-ups of violence among groups, often exacerbated by ethnic divisions or conflict over scarce resources.

The extremist Islamist armed group Boko Haram has also terrorized northeast Nigeria, an insurgency that has killed tens of thousands of people over the past 15 years. Human rights experts have said most Boko Haram victims have been Muslims.

U.S. lawmakers such as Representative Tom Cole, a Republican who chairs the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Committee, hailed Trumps move on Friday, citing what they called the alarming and ongoing persecution of Christians across the country.

The committees fiscal 2026 national security appropriations bill included increased funding for international religious freedom programs and support for programs supporting communities in Nigeria targeted by extremist violence.

Trumps re-designation of Nigeria as a country of concern opens the door to a range of policy responses such as sanctions or waivers, but they are not automatic.

Some religious groups pressed Trump for the re-designation in a letter last month, according to a copy on the Hudson Institute think tanks website.

Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. Thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter, Trump wrote without offering any specifics. He also called on the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Committee to investigate.
Chemtrade Logistics Income Fund (TSE:CHE.UN  Get Free Report)s share price reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The company traded as high as C$14.48 and last traded at C$14.47, with a volume of 293900 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at C$14.14.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several brokerages have recently weighed in on CHE.UN. Scotiabank cut shares of Chemtrade Logistics Income Fund from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating and increased their price objective for the stock from C$15.00 to C$17.00 in a research note on Friday. BMO Capital Markets upped their target price on shares of Chemtrade Logistics Income Fund from C$15.00 to C$20.00 in a report on Thursday. Desjardins increased their price target on shares of Chemtrade Logistics Income Fund from C$15.50 to C$16.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, August 18th. Raymond James Financial upgraded shares of Chemtrade Logistics Income Fund from an outperform rating to a strong-buy rating and lifted their price target for the stock from C$16.00 to C$21.00 in a research note on Thursday. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada upped their price objective on Chemtrade Logistics Income Fund from C$14.00 to C$18.00 in a research note on Thursday. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have assigned a Buy rating and two have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Chemtrade Logistics Income Fund presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of C$18.29.

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Chemtrade Logistics Income Fund Stock Performance

Chemtrade Logistics Income Fund Dividend Announcement

The businesss 50-day simple moving average is C$13.40 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is C$11.99. The company has a quick ratio of 0.48, a current ratio of 0.40 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 128.02. The firm has a market cap of C$1.66 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.98 and a beta of 1.31.

The firm also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 31st. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 31st were given a $0.0575 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Monday, September 29th. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.8%. Chemtrade Logistics Income Funds payout ratio is 71.09%.

Chemtrade Logistics Income Fund Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Chemtrade Logistics Income Fund provides industrial chemicals and services to customers in North America and around the world. The company organized into four main operating segments: Sulphur Products and Performance Chemicals (SPPC), Water Solutions and Specialty Chemicals (WSSC), Electrochemicals, and Corporate.

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Beazer Homes USA (NYSE:BZH  Get Free Report) released its earnings results on Thursday. The construction company reported $1.07 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.80 by $0.27, Zacks reports. The firm had revenue of $791.90 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $674.80 million. Beazer Homes USA had a return on equity of 6.16% and a net margin of 2.84%.Beazer Homes USAs revenue for the quarter was down 1.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $1.69 EPS.

Beazer Homes USA Stock Performance

BZH traded up $0.48 during trading on Friday, hitting $21.88. The stock had a trading volume of 825,938 shares, compared to its average volume of 388,783. The firm has a market capitalization of $650.46 million, a P/E ratio of 9.95, a PEG ratio of 0.61 and a beta of 2.16. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.94, a quick ratio of 0.91 and a current ratio of 13.33. Beazer Homes USA has a twelve month low of $17.37 and a twelve month high of $36.72. The companys 50-day moving average price is $23.78 and its 200 day moving average price is $23.21.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities analysts have recently commented on the company. Zacks Research raised Beazer Homes USA from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, October 3rd. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Beazer Homes USA in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Wedbush reiterated an outperform rating and set a $41.00 target price on shares of Beazer Homes USA in a research note on Friday, August 1st. Finally, Oppenheimer reaffirmed an outperform rating and set a $30.00 price target (down from $33.00) on shares of Beazer Homes USA in a report on Monday, August 4th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $31.33.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in BZH. Royal Bank of Canada increased its position in Beazer Homes USA by 1.8% during the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 73,915 shares of the construction companys stock worth $1,507,000 after purchasing an additional 1,279 shares during the period. AQR Capital Management LLC boosted its position in shares of Beazer Homes USA by 35.5% during the 1st quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 198,855 shares of the construction companys stock worth $4,055,000 after purchasing an additional 52,062 shares in the last quarter. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. increased its holdings in shares of Beazer Homes USA by 4.4% in the 1st quarter. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. now owns 17,314 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $353,000 after purchasing an additional 734 shares in the last quarter. Rhumbline Advisers lifted its stake in shares of Beazer Homes USA by 1.4% in the second quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 46,206 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $1,034,000 after purchasing an additional 642 shares during the period. Finally, American Century Companies Inc. grew its position in Beazer Homes USA by 5.0% during the second quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 77,553 shares of the construction companys stock worth $1,735,000 after buying an additional 3,673 shares during the period. 85.65% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Beazer Homes USA Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Beazer Homes USA, Inc operates as a homebuilder in the United States. It designs, constructs, and sells single-family and multi-family homes under the Beazer Homes, Gatherings, and Choice Plans names. The company also sells its homes through commissioned new home sales counselors and independent brokers in Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas, Indiana, Delaware, Maryland, Tennessee, Virginia, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina.

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Banco Do Brasil (OTCMKTS:BDORY  Get Free Report) posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday. The financial services provider reported $0.10 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.13 by ($0.03), Zacks reports. The business had revenue of $7.14 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $7.06 billion. Banco Do Brasil had a return on equity of 15.84% and a net margin of 4.99%.

Banco Do Brasil Trading Up 1.9%

Shares of Banco Do Brasil stock traded up $0.08 during midday trading on Friday, reaching $4.36. 1,839,721 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 789,256. The company has a market cap of $24.99 billion, a PE ratio of 8.90, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.11 and a beta of 0.59. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $4.10 and a 200-day moving average of $4.11. Banco Do Brasil has a 12 month low of $3.35 and a 12 month high of $5.51. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.95, a quick ratio of 0.99 and a current ratio of 0.99.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Separately, Citigroup upgraded Banco Do Brasil from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 17th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold.

Banco Do Brasil Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Banco do Brasil SA provides banking products and services for individuals, companies, and public sectors in Brazil and internationally. The company's Banking segment offers various products and services, including deposits, loans, and services to retail, wholesale, and public sector markets, as well as to micro-entrepreneurs and the low income population.

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BellRing Brands (NYSE:BRBR  Free Report) had its target price trimmed by TD Cowen from $45.00 to $37.00 in a research report sent to investors on Thursday morning,Benzinga reports. The firm currently has a buy rating on the stock.

Other equities research analysts have also issued research reports about the stock. Morgan Stanley dropped their price objective on shares of BellRing Brands from $58.00 to $43.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday. UBS Group dropped their price target on BellRing Brands from $40.00 to $39.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Evercore ISI cut their price target on BellRing Brands from $82.00 to $64.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, August 6th. Stephens upgraded BellRing Brands from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and lowered their price objective for the company from $68.00 to $50.00 in a research note on Wednesday, August 6th. Finally, Mizuho cut their target price on BellRing Brands from $75.00 to $45.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, August 18th. Fourteen equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, BellRing Brands currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $57.56.

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BellRing Brands Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE BRBR traded down $0.13 during mid-day trading on Thursday, hitting $26.82. 6,044,748 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,389,091. BellRing Brands has a 52 week low of $26.42 and a 52 week high of $80.67. The company has a market cap of $3.38 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.33, a PEG ratio of 1.61 and a beta of 0.70. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $33.86 and a 200-day moving average price of $48.25.

BellRing Brands (NYSE:BRBR  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Monday, February 28th. The company reported $0.22 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. BellRing Brands had a negative return on equity of 123.43% and a net margin of 10.26%.The business had revenue of $282.40 million during the quarter. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that BellRing Brands will post 2.23 EPS for the current fiscal year.

BellRing Brands declared that its Board of Directors has authorized a share buyback program on Tuesday, September 2nd that allows the company to repurchase $400.00 million in shares. This repurchase authorization allows the company to reacquire up to 7.7% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares repurchase programs are generally an indication that the companys board believes its shares are undervalued.

Institutional Trading of BellRing Brands

A number of large investors have recently made changes to their positions in BRBR. Stephens Inc. AR boosted its holdings in BellRing Brands by 5.0% in the first quarter. Stephens Inc. AR now owns 3,705 shares of the companys stock worth $276,000 after purchasing an additional 175 shares during the last quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC lifted its holdings in shares of BellRing Brands by 2,660.0% during the 1st quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 690 shares of the companys stock valued at $51,000 after buying an additional 665 shares during the period. Parcion Private Wealth LLC purchased a new position in shares of BellRing Brands in the 1st quarter worth $221,000. Burns Matteson Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of BellRing Brands in the 1st quarter worth $236,000. Finally, Savoir Faire Capital Management L.P. bought a new stake in shares of BellRing Brands in the first quarter worth $947,000. 94.97% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About BellRing Brands

(Get Free Report)

BellRing Brands, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides various nutrition products in the United States. The company offers ready-to-drink (RTD) protein shakes, other RTD beverages, powders, nutrition bars, and other products primarily under the Premier Protein and Dymatize brands. It distributes its products through club, food, drug, mass, eCommerce, specialty, and convenience channels.

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Community Bancorp. (OTCMKTS:CMTV  Get Free Report) posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday. The financial services provider reported $0.84 earnings per share for the quarter, Zacks reports. Community Bancorp. had a return on equity of 14.81% and a net margin of 22.51%.

Community Bancorp. Stock Performance

Shares of OTCMKTS CMTV remained flat at $23.39 during mid-day trading on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.91, a current ratio of 0.91 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12. The firm has a market cap of $130.52 million, a P/E ratio of 8.93 and a beta of 0.36. The companys 50-day moving average price is $22.76 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $21.02. Community Bancorp. has a 1 year low of $16.11 and a 1 year high of $25.80.

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Community Bancorp. Company Profile

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Community Bancorp. operates as the bank holding company for Community National Bank that provides financial services to individuals, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and municipalities in northern and central Vermont. It offers financing for commercial business properties, equipment, inventories, and accounts receivable, as well as standby letters of credit; and business checking and other deposit accounts, cash management services, repurchase agreements, ACH and wire transfer services, card processing, and remote deposit capture.

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Superior Plus Corp. (TSE:SPB  Get Free Report) shares dropped 21.1% during mid-day trading on Friday after CIBC lowered their price target on the stock from C$9.00 to C$8.50. The stock traded as low as C$6.06 and last traded at C$6.29. Approximately 5,946,604 shares were traded during mid-day trading, an increase of 655% from the average daily volume of 787,353 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$7.97.

Several other equities analysts have also commented on SPB. Desjardins dropped their target price on Superior Plus from C$10.50 to C$9.75 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, August 13th. BMO Capital Markets raised their price objective on shares of Superior Plus from C$8.00 to C$10.00 in a report on Friday, October 10th. TD Securities upped their target price on shares of Superior Plus from C$8.00 to C$9.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Thursday, October 9th. Finally, Raymond James Financial cut their price target on shares of Superior Plus from C$10.50 to C$10.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, August 14th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of C$9.41.

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Superior Plus Price Performance

The company has a quick ratio of 0.46, a current ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 193.35. The stock has a fifty day moving average of C$7.85 and a two-hundred day moving average of C$7.63. The stock has a market cap of C$1.40 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 29.95 and a beta of 0.18.

Superior Plus (TSE:SPB  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 13th. The company reported C($0.47) earnings per share for the quarter. Superior Plus had a return on equity of 4.21% and a net margin of 1.80%.The company had revenue of C$470.64 million for the quarter.

Superior Plus Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Investors of record on Wednesday, October 15th were issued a dividend of $0.045 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, September 29th. This represents a $0.18 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.9%. Superior Pluss payout ratio is currently 109.01%.

About Superior Plus

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Superior is a leading North American distributor of propane, compressed natural gas, renewable energy and related products and services, servicing approximately 770,000 customer locations in the U.S. and Canada. Through its primary businesses, propane distribution and CNG, RNG and hydrogen distribution, Superior safely delivers clean burning fuels to residential, commercial, utility, agricultural and industrial customers not connected to a pipeline.

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Shares of Enersys (NYSE:ENS  Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high during trading on Wednesday . The company traded as high as $141.00 and last traded at $138.6930, with a volume of 58730 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $138.57.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

ENS has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. Oppenheimer reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of Enersys in a report on Friday, November 7th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Enersys in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Zacks Research upgraded shares of Enersys from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Monday. Roth Capital restated a buy rating and issued a $120.00 price target on shares of Enersys in a research report on Tuesday, August 5th. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised Enersys from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Saturday, November 8th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating and four have given a Buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Enersys currently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average price target of $126.00.

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Enersys Price Performance

The stock has a market capitalization of $5.08 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.70, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.71 and a beta of 1.13. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $117.58 and a 200 day simple moving average of $100.51. The company has a current ratio of 3.00, a quick ratio of 1.91 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.68.

Enersys (NYSE:ENS  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The industrial products company reported $2.56 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.36 by $0.20. The company had revenue of $951.30 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $890.27 million. Enersys had a return on equity of 21.99% and a net margin of 9.60%.Enersyss quarterly revenue was up 7.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $2.12 earnings per share. Enersys has set its Q3 2026 guidance at 2.710-2.81 EPS. On average, analysts expect that Enersys will post 9.99 earnings per share for the current year.

Enersys Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 26th. Shareholders of record on Friday, December 12th will be paid a $0.2625 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 12th. This represents a $1.05 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.8%. Enersyss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 12.28%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Enersys

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Root Financial Partners LLC purchased a new position in Enersys in the third quarter valued at approximately $25,000. BNP PARIBAS ASSET MANAGEMENT Holding S.A. purchased a new position in shares of Enersys in the second quarter worth about $28,000. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd raised its holdings in Enersys by 2,500.0% during the 1st quarter. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd now owns 338 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $31,000 after acquiring an additional 325 shares during the period. Gen Wealth Partners Inc bought a new stake in shares of Enersys during the 1st quarter valued at $36,000. Finally, Optiver Holding B.V. bought a new stake in shares of Enersys during the third quarter valued at about $47,000. 94.93% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Enersys Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

EnerSys engages in the provision of stored energy solutions for industrial applications worldwide. It operates in four segments: Energy Systems, Motive Power, Specialty, and New Ventures. The Energy Systems segment offers uninterruptible power systems (UPS) applications for computer and computer-controlled systems, as well as telecommunications systems; switchgear and electrical control systems used in industrial facilities and electric utilities, large-scale energy storage, and energy pipelines; integrated power solutions and services to broadband, telecom, data center, and renewable and industrial customers; and thermally managed cabinets and enclosures for electronic equipment and batteries.

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Shares of The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRV  Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $288.39 and last traded at $288.4790, with a volume of 130521 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $286.02.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on TRV shares. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Travelers Companies from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Sunday, October 19th. Morgan Stanley lifted their price objective on Travelers Companies from $269.00 to $285.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Tuesday, October 7th. UBS Group increased their target price on Travelers Companies from $284.00 to $287.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Citigroup started coverage on Travelers Companies in a research note on Wednesday, August 13th. They set a neutral rating and a $291.00 price target for the company. Finally, Barclays set a $313.00 price target on shares of Travelers Companies in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have given a Buy rating, eleven have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $291.31.

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Travelers Companies Price Performance

The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $275.06 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $269.44. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29, a quick ratio of 0.35 and a current ratio of 0.35. The firm has a market cap of $64.01 billion, a PE ratio of 11.28, a PEG ratio of 2.38 and a beta of 0.55.

Travelers Companies (NYSE:TRV  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 16th. The insurance provider reported $8.14 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $6.01 by $2.13. Travelers Companies had a net margin of 12.14% and a return on equity of 20.28%. The company had revenue of $12.47 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.15 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $5.24 earnings per share. Travelers Companiess revenue was up 4.8% on a year-over-year basis. Equities analysts predict that The Travelers Companies, Inc. will post 17.02 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Travelers Companies Dividend Announcement

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 10th will be given a dividend of $1.10 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 10th. This represents a $4.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.5%. Travelers Companiess payout ratio is currently 17.30%.

Insider Activity

In other news, EVP Mojgan M. Lefebvre sold 16,820 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, August 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $277.54, for a total value of $4,668,222.80. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, CFO Daniel S. Frey sold 25,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $278.25, for a total transaction of $6,956,250.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer directly owned 26,932 shares in the company, valued at $7,493,829. This trade represents a 48.14% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 54,195 shares of company stock worth $15,042,229. 1.46% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Institutional Trading of Travelers Companies

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Lazard Asset Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Travelers Companies by 8.0% in the third quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 20,418 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $5,701,000 after purchasing an additional 1,507 shares during the last quarter. Creative Planning grew its stake in Travelers Companies by 10.4% in the 3rd quarter. Creative Planning now owns 109,171 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $30,483,000 after acquiring an additional 10,283 shares in the last quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC grew its stake in Travelers Companies by 22.8% in the 3rd quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 1,785,288 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $496,872,000 after acquiring an additional 331,170 shares in the last quarter. Zacks Investment Management increased its position in shares of Travelers Companies by 8.8% during the third quarter. Zacks Investment Management now owns 1,133 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $316,000 after acquiring an additional 92 shares during the period. Finally, Credit Agricole S A bought a new stake in shares of Travelers Companies during the third quarter valued at approximately $39,798,000. 82.45% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Travelers Companies Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

The Travelers Companies, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides a range of commercial and personal property, and casualty insurance products and services to businesses, government units, associations, and individuals in the United States and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Business Insurance, Bond & Specialty Insurance, and Personal Insurance.

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Occidental Petroleum (NYSE:OXY  Free Report) had its price target lifted by Susquehanna from $54.00 to $55.00 in a report released on Thursday,Benzinga reports. Susquehanna currently has a positive rating on the oil and gas producers stock.

OXY has been the topic of several other reports. Melius Research initiated coverage on shares of Occidental Petroleum in a research report on Wednesday, August 20th. They issued a hold rating and a $64.00 price target on the stock. Mizuho increased their target price on Occidental Petroleum from $60.00 to $64.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday. HSBC raised Occidental Petroleum from a hold rating to a buy rating and raised their price target for the stock from $48.00 to $55.00 in a research report on Friday, October 3rd. Evercore ISI reduced their price objective on Occidental Petroleum from $40.00 to $38.00 and set an underperform rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, October 3rd. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price objective on Occidental Petroleum from $42.00 to $40.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have assigned a Buy rating, fourteen have issued a Hold rating and three have given a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Occidental Petroleum currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $51.24.

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Occidental Petroleum Stock Performance

NYSE:OXY traded up $0.73 during midday trading on Thursday, reaching $42.75. The stock had a trading volume of 8,607,144 shares, compared to its average volume of 11,489,540. The company has a quick ratio of 0.83, a current ratio of 1.05 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.84. The stock has a market cap of $42.12 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.29 and a beta of 0.91. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $43.80 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $43.68. Occidental Petroleum has a 12-month low of $34.78 and a 12-month high of $53.20.

Occidental Petroleum (NYSE:OXY  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Monday, November 10th. The oil and gas producer reported $0.64 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.48 by $0.16. Occidental Petroleum had a return on equity of 13.78% and a net margin of 8.79%.The business had revenue of $6.62 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.66 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $1.00 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 6.1% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities analysts expect that Occidental Petroleum will post 3.58 EPS for the current year.

Occidental Petroleum Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 15th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 10th will be paid a $0.24 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 10th. This represents a $0.96 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.2%. Occidental Petroleums dividend payout ratio is 70.59%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Occidental Petroleum

Hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. University of Texas Texas AM Investment Management Co. bought a new stake in shares of Occidental Petroleum in the second quarter worth $27,000. City Holding Co. increased its position in shares of Occidental Petroleum by 250.0% in the 3rd quarter. City Holding Co. now owns 700 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $33,000 after purchasing an additional 500 shares during the last quarter. Binnacle Investments Inc acquired a new stake in shares of Occidental Petroleum in the 3rd quarter valued at about $35,000. Hantz Financial Services Inc. lifted its position in shares of Occidental Petroleum by 1,193.9% during the second quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 854 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $36,000 after purchasing an additional 788 shares during the last quarter. Finally, GoalVest Advisory LLC acquired a new position in Occidental Petroleum in the third quarter worth about $38,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 88.70% of the companys stock.

About Occidental Petroleum

(Get Free Report)

Occidental Petroleum Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of oil and gas properties in the United States, the Middle East, and North Africa. It operates through three segments: Oil and Gas, Chemical, and Midstream and Marketing. The company's Oil and Gas segment explores for, develops, and produces oil and condensate, natural gas liquids (NGLs), and natural gas.

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McGraw Hill (NYSE:MH  Free Report) had its price objective upped by UBS Group from $15.00 to $16.00 in a report issued on Thursday,Benzinga reports. They currently have a neutral rating on the stock.

MH has been the subject of a number of other research reports. Baird R W raised shares of McGraw Hill to a strong-buy rating in a report on Monday, August 18th. Weiss Ratings began coverage on shares of McGraw Hill in a research note on Friday, October 17th. They set a sell (e+) rating on the stock. Macquarie restated an outperform rating and set a $19.00 price objective on shares of McGraw Hill in a research report on Friday, October 17th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. initiated coverage on McGraw Hill in a report on Monday, August 18th. They set an overweight rating and a $21.00 price objective for the company. Finally, Zacks Research raised McGraw Hill to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 19th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twelve have issued a Buy rating, two have issued a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, McGraw Hill currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $20.72.

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McGraw Hill Price Performance

NYSE:MH traded up $0.74 during mid-day trading on Thursday, hitting $15.71. 1,968,964 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 556,188. McGraw Hill has a one year low of $10.69 and a one year high of $17.25. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $12.85.

McGraw Hill (NYSE:MH  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 12th. The company reported $1.40 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.35 by $1.05. The business had revenue of $669.19 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $638.76 million. The firms quarterly revenue was down 2.8% on a year-over-year basis. McGraw Hill has set its FY 2026 guidance at EPS.

Institutional Trading of McGraw Hill

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Peregrine Capital Management LLC bought a new position in shares of McGraw Hill during the third quarter worth about $3,443,000. Strs Ohio purchased a new stake in shares of McGraw Hill in the third quarter worth $54,000. Teacher Retirement System of Texas bought a new stake in shares of McGraw Hill in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $7,530,000. State of Wyoming purchased a new position in shares of McGraw Hill in the third quarter valued at about $202,000. Finally, Rhumbline Advisers bought a new stake in shares of McGraw Hill during the third quarter valued at approximately $279,000.

McGraw Hill Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

At McGraw Hill, our purpose is to unlock the potential of each learner at every stage of life. Our mission is to support educators, learners and professionals around the world with trusted, high-quality content and digital solutions that use data and learning science to adapt to each student as they progress towards their goals.

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It is everyones business

By Zaldy Dandan  Variety Editor

Dont even think about it

IN early 2023, the administration announced that the CNMI would wean itself off overreliance on a single tourism market, but instead we ended up overrelying on another market  which has since cratered. Beginning in June 2024, CNMI arrivals have been consistently low and declining. From 237,498 arrivals in fiscal year 2024, the figure dropped to 160,640 in FY 2025. Arrivals from the islands sole remaining major market, South Korea, were down by 37.3%.

Tourism-related businesses say they need at least 500,000 visitors a year just to break even. MVA, however, doubts the number will reach 200,000 next year.

Despite the adverse developments in the Korea market, MVA has to make do with its limited funding  $1.8 million. (Compare that amount to Guam Visitors Bureaus $10 million budget for its airline incentive program, on top of $12.6 million for general promotion.) As MVAs marketing director recently told reporters, 1.8 million is not going to be anywhere near what we need to even stabilize the existing service that we have, let alone attract any new service, airlines, or flights.

What does it all mean?

For tourism-related businesses, it could mean an additional year or two of losses. How many could survive, and how many would have to further downsize or even shut down? What about their chain of local suppliers and vendors, as well as other businesses that are linked, one way or another, to the tourism industry?

And what about the single largest entity dependent on this revenue  the CNMI government, run by politicians who were elected by basically promising to share the wealth with the voting public? Besides the feds (i.e., American taxpayers), where else could they turn as they continue to defy basic arithmetic and incur obligations they can no longer afford?

Are they actually considering imposing new taxes or fees on already struggling businesses and other taxpayers?

Someone should tell them reality called.

Lets give it a try

MVA has launched its new global brand platform, developed with the reputable Australian creative agency Cicul8, whose clients have included the Japan National Tourism Organization and Tourism Fiji.

The CNMIs new brand marks a significant departure from previous promotional campaigns  and thats exactly the point. The world of tourism has changed, and todays travelers are no longer drawn solely by clear blue waters and white sand beaches. They want more. MVA

believes its new promotional strategy  which includes destination enhancement projects  can put the CNMI back on the tourism map.

It must be given a chance to succeed. This is a CNMI issue, not a partisan one.

Additional funding for promotion and site improvements would be welcome. For once, MVA should be allowed to do its job without being hamstrung by the administrations geopolitical obsessions.
Transdigm Group (NYSE:TDG  Free Report) had its price target boosted by Royal Bank Of Canada from $1,385.00 to $1,400.00 in a research report report published on Thursday,Benzinga reports. They currently have a sector perform rating on the aerospace companys stock.

Several other analysts have also recently weighed in on TDG. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of Transdigm Group in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. UBS Group raised their price objective on shares of Transdigm Group from $1,738.00 to $1,798.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday. Jefferies Financial Group decreased their price objective on shares of Transdigm Group from $1,650.00 to $1,490.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, September 17th. Stifel Nicolaus dropped their target price on Transdigm Group from $1,710.00 to $1,650.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Thursday. Finally, Susquehanna decreased their price target on Transdigm Group from $1,500.00 to $1,450.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Thursday, October 9th. Twelve equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have assigned a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $1,563.88.

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Transdigm Group Price Performance

Shares of TDG stock traded up $14.22 during trading on Thursday, reaching $1,339.26. The companys stock had a trading volume of 312,899 shares, compared to its average volume of 300,033. Transdigm Group has a 1-year low of $1,183.60 and a 1-year high of $1,623.82. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $1,297.21 and its 200 day moving average price is $1,402.59. The company has a market capitalization of $75.47 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 44.45, a P/E/G ratio of 3.25 and a beta of 1.02.

Transdigm Group (NYSE:TDG  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 12th. The aerospace company reported $10.82 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $10.33 by $0.49. Transdigm Group had a net margin of 20.98% and a negative return on equity of 35.27%. The company had revenue of $2.44 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.40 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $9.83 EPS. The firms revenue was up 11.5% compared to the same quarter last year. Transdigm Group has set its FY 2026 guidance at 36.490-38.530 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Transdigm Group will post 35.13 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Transdigm Group Increases Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a special dividend, which was paid on Friday, September 12th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, September 2nd were paid a $90.00 dividend. This is a boost from Transdigm Groups previous special dividend of $75.00. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 2nd.

Insider Activity

In other Transdigm Group news, Director W Nicholas Howley sold 2,736 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $1,298.87, for a total transaction of $3,553,708.32. Following the completion of the sale, the director directly owned 21,548 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $27,988,050.76. This trade represents a 11.27% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, COO Joel Reiss sold 3,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, October 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $1,279.59, for a total value of $3,838,770.00. Following the sale, the chief operating officer directly owned 3,600 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,606,524. This represents a 45.45% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders sold 22,802 shares of company stock worth $29,917,993 over the last quarter. 4.09% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Transdigm Group

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in TDG. Salomon & Ludwin LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Transdigm Group in the third quarter valued at approximately $26,000. Winch Advisory Services LLC boosted its position in shares of Transdigm Group by 53.8% during the 1st quarter. Winch Advisory Services LLC now owns 20 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $28,000 after purchasing an additional 7 shares in the last quarter. Saudi Central Bank acquired a new position in shares of Transdigm Group during the 1st quarter worth $30,000. Wealth Watch Advisors INC purchased a new position in shares of Transdigm Group in the 3rd quarter valued at about $34,000. Finally, Bank of Jackson Hole Trust lifted its stake in shares of Transdigm Group by 84.6% in the second quarter. Bank of Jackson Hole Trust now owns 24 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $36,000 after purchasing an additional 11 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 95.78% of the companys stock.

Transdigm Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

TransDigm Group Incorporated designs, produces, and supplies aircraft components in the United States and internationally. The Power & Control segment offers mechanical/electro-mechanical actuators and controls, ignition systems and engine technology, specialized pumps and valves, power conditioning devices, specialized AC/DC electric motors and generators, batteries and chargers, databus and power controls, sensor products, switches and relay panels, hoists, winches and lifting devices, and cargo loading and handling systems.

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T. Rowe Price Dividend Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:TDVG  Get Free Report) shares reached a new 52-week high during trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $44.88 and last traded at $44.8690, with a volume of 12580 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $44.70.

T. Rowe Price Dividend Growth ETF Price Performance

The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $43.95 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $42.69. The stock has a market cap of $1.14 billion, a PE ratio of 24.89 and a beta of 0.86.

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Institutional Investors Weigh In On T. Rowe Price Dividend Growth ETF

A number of hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC bought a new stake in shares of T. Rowe Price Dividend Growth ETF in the 2nd quarter worth about $34,000. N.E.W. Advisory Services LLC purchased a new position in T. Rowe Price Dividend Growth ETF in the second quarter worth about $104,000. Comprehensive Financial Planning Inc. PA increased its stake in T. Rowe Price Dividend Growth ETF by 38.8% during the third quarter. Comprehensive Financial Planning Inc. PA now owns 4,245 shares of the companys stock worth $187,000 after acquiring an additional 1,187 shares during the last quarter. Sandy Cove Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in T. Rowe Price Dividend Growth ETF during the second quarter valued at approximately $220,000. Finally, DAVENPORT & Co LLC bought a new stake in shares of T. Rowe Price Dividend Growth ETF in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $222,000.

About T. Rowe Price Dividend Growth ETF

The T. Rowe Price Dividend Growth ETF (TDVG) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the Russell 1000 Dividend Growth index. The ETF currently has 298.89m in AUM and 103 holdings. TDVG is an actively-managed, non-transparent fund of global, large- and mid-cap companies with sustainable, above-average growth in earnings and dividends TDVG was launched on Aug 4, 2020 and is managed by T.

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SoftBank Group Corp. Unsponsored ADR (OTCMKTS:SFTBY  Get Free Report) gapped down before the market opened on Wednesday . The stock had previously closed at $75.00, but opened at $71.11. SoftBank Group shares last traded at $70.9714, with a volume of 165,796 shares traded.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Separately, New Street Research lowered shares of SoftBank Group from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, September 25th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating, Based on data from MarketBeat.com, SoftBank Group presently has a consensus rating of Hold.

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SoftBank Group Stock Performance

The firm has a market capitalization of $182.35 billion, a PE ratio of 8.77 and a beta of 1.37. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.99, a current ratio of 0.84 and a quick ratio of 0.82. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $70.40 and its 200 day simple moving average is $48.06.

SoftBank Group (OTCMKTS:SFTBY  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, November 11th. The technology company reported $5.93 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.55 by $5.38. SoftBank Group had a net margin of 41.42% and a return on equity of 22.08%. The company had revenue of $12.44 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $12.61 billion. As a group, equities research analysts expect that SoftBank Group Corp. Unsponsored ADR will post 2.22 EPS for the current fiscal year.

About SoftBank Group

(Get Free Report)

SoftBank Group Corp. provides telecommunication services in Japan and internationally. It operates through Investment Business of Holding Companies, SoftBank Vision Funds, SoftBank, Arm, and Other segments. The company offers mobile communications and solutions to enterprise customers, and broadband services to retail customers; and sells mobile devices and software tools, as well as related services.

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LiveWire Group, Inc. (NYSE:LVWR  Get Free Report) shares gapped down prior to trading on Wednesday . The stock had previously closed at $4.83, but opened at $4.62. LiveWire Group shares last traded at $4.78, with a volume of 3,215 shares traded.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

LVWR has been the subject of several research analyst reports. Weiss Ratings restated a sell (e+) rating on shares of LiveWire Group in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of LiveWire Group from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, August 2nd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Sell rating, According to data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Sell.

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LiveWire Group Stock Down 2.2%

The firm has a 50-day moving average of $5.06 and a two-hundred day moving average of $4.11. The stock has a market capitalization of $932.11 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -11.73 and a beta of 1.74.

LiveWire Group (NYSE:LVWR  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The company reported ($0.10) earnings per share for the quarter. The business had revenue of $5.70 million for the quarter. LiveWire Group had a negative net margin of 320.10% and a negative return on equity of 90.76%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On LiveWire Group

Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Russell Investments Group Ltd. increased its stake in shares of LiveWire Group by 82.0% in the third quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 6,751 shares of the companys stock worth $32,000 after acquiring an additional 3,042 shares during the last quarter. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey acquired a new position in shares of LiveWire Group during the 2nd quarter worth $35,000. BNP Paribas Financial Markets lifted its position in shares of LiveWire Group by 117.6% in the third quarter. BNP Paribas Financial Markets now owns 9,363 shares of the companys stock worth $44,000 after buying an additional 5,060 shares during the last quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC lifted its stake in shares of LiveWire Group by 119.5% in the second quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 10,676 shares of the companys stock worth $49,000 after buying an additional 5,812 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH acquired a new position in LiveWire Group during the 3rd quarter worth $55,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 0.88% of the companys stock.

LiveWire Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

LiveWire Group, Inc manufactures electric motorcycles in the United States and internationally. It operates in two segments Electric Motorcycles and STACYC. The company designs and sells electric motorcycles and parts, accessories, and apparel; and electric balance bikes for kids. It serves wholesalers, independent dealers, retailers, and through online.

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Gloo Holdings, Inc. (GLOO) plans to raise $100.10 million in an initial public offering (IPO) on Wednesday, November 19th, IPO Scoop reports. The company will be issuing 9,100,000 shares at $10.00-$12.00 per share.

In the last 12 months, Gloo Holdings, Inc. generated $41.09 million in revenue and had a net loss of $128.05 million. Gloo Holdings, Inc. has a market cap of $800.61 million.

Roth Capital Partners served as the underwriter for the IPO and Benchmark (a StoneX Company), Craig-Hallum, Lake Street, Loop Capital Markets and Texas Capital Securities were co-managers.

Gloo Holdings, Inc. provided the following description of their company for its IPO: (Incorporated in Delaware) Glooas mission is to build the leading vertical technology platform for the faith and flourishing ecosystem, which we believe is one of the largest, oldest and least-digitized ecosystems in the world. Our purpose is to shape technology as a force for good, so people can flourish and communities can thrive. This is grounded in our belief that relationships catalyze growth, and when technology is used to serve relationships, it transforms lives. The faith and flourishing ecosystem is vast and, we believe, a technologically underserved vertical that includes traditional Christian (primarily Protestant and Catholic) churches and a diverse network of ministries, nonprofits and service providers. According to a 2016 analysis conducted by the Interdisciplinary Journal of Research on Religion, the faith sector, including all religions of which Christianity is the largest in America, contributes approximately $1.2 trillion to the United States economy each year. According to IBISWorld, Christian organizations, which comprise our primary customer focus, accounted for 88% of the aggregate revenue of religious organizations in the United States in 2024. Although we have not undertaken an independent analysis to estimate the total addressable market for all of our current offerings or determined with precision the portion of this market that we may serve, we are confident that Gloo has substantial opportunities for continued growth. In the United States alone, the faith and flourishing ecosystem is estimated to include over 415,000 Christian organizations, comprised of over 315,000 Christian congregations according to the 2020 U.S. Religion Census by the Association of Statisticians of American Religious Bodies, as well as over 100,000 Christian nonprofit organizations according to the Cause IQ directory of nonprofits as of July 2025. Since our founding in 2013, we have offered a breadth of products, services and solutions to the two primary stakeholders at the core of the faith and flourishing ecosystem, network capability providers (NCPs) and the churches and frontline organizations (CFLs) they serve. NCPs play an enabling role in the faith and flourishing vertical by equipping CFLs with products and services so CFLs can focus on their mission. These products and services include technology solutions, content, marketing services and donor services. CFLs serve as the heart of the faith and flourishing ecosystem, and include churches, ministries, nonprofits and service organizations, providing worship, educational programs, community outreach efforts and other social services support. We have established a platform that connects NCPs and CFLs and facilitates sales of products and services between the two groups. Through our platform, CFLs gain access to curated resources and NCPs benefit from targeted distribution of their products and services to members of the ecosystem. The Gloo platform includes a suite of technology, marketplace, advertising and service solutions offered directly by us and by our wholly owned or consolidated subsidiaries, which we refer to as Gloo Capital Partners. We generate revenue from NCPs through sales of enterprise subscriptions to outsourced technology, artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and advertising (all of which we account for as platform revenue), as well as platform solutions. We generate platform revenue from CFLs through sales of subscriptions to communication tools, content libraries, data insights and AI capabilities, as well as through transactions on our and Gloo Capital Partnersa e-commerce marketplaces, including Outreach, Inc., our largest online marketplace. Note: Net loss and revenue are for the 12 months that ended July 31, 2025. (Note: Gloo Holdings disclosed the terms for its IPO on Oct. 30, 2025, in an S-1/A filing: 9.1 million shares at a price range of $10.00 to $12.00 to raise $100.1 million, if priced at the $11.00 mid-point of its range. Background: Gloo Holdings filed its S-1 on Oct. 17, 2025, without disclosing the terms. Estimated proceeds were $100 million.)A .

Gloo Holdings, Inc. was founded in 2013 and has 550 employees. The company is located at 831 Pearl Street Boulder, Colorado 80302 and can be reached via phone at (303) 381-2645.

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CFO4Life Group LLC boosted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF (BATS:QUAL  Free Report) by 0.8% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 176,754 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,455 shares during the quarter. iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF makes up 5.1% of CFO4Life Group LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 3rd biggest holding. CFO4Life Group LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF were worth $32,314,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Keener Financial Planning LLC acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF in the second quarter valued at approximately $29,000. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. grew its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF by 84.2% during the 1st quarter. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. now owns 175 shares of the companys stock worth $30,000 after acquiring an additional 80 shares in the last quarter. CX Institutional increased its position in shares of iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF by 151.9% in the 2nd quarter. CX Institutional now owns 204 shares of the companys stock valued at $37,000 after purchasing an additional 123 shares during the last quarter. Legacy Wealth Managment LLC ID acquired a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF in the 1st quarter valued at $37,000. Finally, Legacy Investment Solutions LLC purchased a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF during the 2nd quarter worth $40,000.

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iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF Trading Up 10.0%

Shares of QUAL stock opened at $194.23 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $56.32 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.59 and a beta of 1.05. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $194.21 and a 200 day moving average price of $185.99. iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF has a 12 month low of $148.34 and a 12 month high of $187.26.

iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF Profile

The iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF (QUAL) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA Sector Neutral Quality index. The fund tracks an index of US large- and mid-cap stocks, selected and weighted by high ROE, stable earnings growth and low debt\u002Fequity, relative to peers in each sector.

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Carl P. Sherr & Co. LLC bought a new stake in Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF (NYSEARCA:VGK  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor bought 6,169 shares of the exchange traded funds stock, valued at approximately $478,000.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in VGK. Family Firm Inc. grew its position in Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF by 1.4% in the 2nd quarter. Family Firm Inc. now owns 12,109 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $938,000 after purchasing an additional 164 shares in the last quarter. Evolution Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $952,000. Schwarz Dygos Wheeler Investment Advisors LLC grew its holdings in shares of Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF by 0.3% in the second quarter. Schwarz Dygos Wheeler Investment Advisors LLC now owns 137,949 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $10,691,000 after acquiring an additional 376 shares in the last quarter. Accredited Investors Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF during the second quarter valued at approximately $27,726,000. Finally, PNC Financial Services Group Inc. lifted its holdings in Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF by 65.5% during the second quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 166,430 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $12,898,000 after acquiring an additional 65,860 shares during the period.

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Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF Trading Down 0.8%

VGK stock opened at $81.06 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $27.97 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.04 and a beta of 0.93. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $80.22 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $78.10. Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF has a 1-year low of $62.02 and a 1-year high of $82.41.

Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF Company Profile

Vanguard European Stock Index Fund is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks to track the performance of a benchmark index that measures the investment return of stocks issued by Companies located in the markets of Europe. The Fund on focuses indexing investment approach by investing all, or substantially all, of its assets in the common stocks included in the FTSE Developed Europe All Cap Index.

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Beacon Harbor Wealth Advisors Inc. reduced its stake in Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY  Free Report) by 23.1% in the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 92,576 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 27,744 shares during the quarter. Beacon Harbor Wealth Advisors Inc.s holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb were worth $4,285,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its position in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 297.0% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 23,728,443 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,447,198,000 after acquiring an additional 17,750,938 shares during the period. GQG Partners LLC raised its stake in Bristol Myers Squibb by 22,647.6% in the first quarter. GQG Partners LLC now owns 12,023,454 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $733,310,000 after purchasing an additional 11,970,598 shares in the last quarter. Nuveen LLC bought a new stake in Bristol Myers Squibb during the first quarter worth about $624,369,000. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC acquired a new stake in Bristol Myers Squibb during the second quarter worth about $98,898,000. Finally, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb by 17.7% in the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 14,051,319 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $856,990,000 after buying an additional 2,117,249 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 76.41% of the companys stock.

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Bristol Myers Squibb Stock Performance

NYSE BMY opened at $46.67 on Friday. The firms fifty day moving average price is $45.34 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $46.70. The stock has a market cap of $95.00 billion, a PE ratio of 18.82, a PEG ratio of 2.23 and a beta of 0.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.54, a quick ratio of 1.11 and a current ratio of 1.21. Bristol Myers Squibb Company has a fifty-two week low of $42.52 and a fifty-two week high of $63.33.

Bristol Myers Squibb Announces Dividend

Bristol Myers Squibb ( NYSE:BMY Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.63 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.52 by $0.11. The company had revenue of $12.22 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.75 billion. Bristol Myers Squibb had a return on equity of 80.04% and a net margin of 10.58%.Bristol Myers Squibbs revenue was up 2.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $1.80 EPS. Bristol Myers Squibb has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.400-6.600 EPS. On average, equities analysts expect that Bristol Myers Squibb Company will post 6.74 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 3rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 3rd were paid a $0.62 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 3rd. This represents a $2.48 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.3%. Bristol Myers Squibbs dividend payout ratio is currently 83.78%.

Insider Transactions at Bristol Myers Squibb

In related news, EVP David V. Elkins sold 56,000 shares of Bristol Myers Squibb stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $47.33, for a total transaction of $2,650,480.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 167,379 shares in the company, valued at $7,922,048.07. This trade represents a 25.07% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. 0.09% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Analyst Ratings Changes

BMY has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. Daiwa America downgraded shares of Bristol Myers Squibb from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, August 5th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research report on Tuesday, October 14th. Citigroup restated a neutral rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Monday, October 13th. Sanford C. Bernstein reiterated a market perform rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Finally, Scotiabank began coverage on Bristol Myers Squibb in a report on Thursday. They set a sector perform rating and a $45.00 price target for the company. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and fourteen have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Bristol Myers Squibb has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $54.58.

Read Our Latest Research Report on BMY

Bristol Myers Squibb Company Profile

(Free Report)

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company discovers, develops, licenses, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers products for hematology, oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, fibrotic, and neuroscience diseases. The company's products include Eliquis for reduction in risk of stroke/systemic embolism in non-valvular atrial fibrillation, and for the treatment of DVT/PE; Opdivo for various anti-cancer indications, including bladder, blood, CRC, head and neck, RCC, HCC, lung, melanoma, MPM, stomach and esophageal cancer; Pomalyst/Imnovid for multiple myeloma; Orencia for active rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis; and Sprycel for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia.

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Los Angeles Capital Management LLC reduced its position in shares of Houlihan Lokey, Inc. (NYSE:HLI  Free Report) by 20.4% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 3,332 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 853 shares during the period. Los Angeles Capital Management LLCs holdings in Houlihan Lokey were worth $600,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Securian Asset Management Inc. increased its position in shares of Houlihan Lokey by 2.5% during the first quarter. Securian Asset Management Inc. now owns 4,151 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $670,000 after purchasing an additional 100 shares in the last quarter. Signaturefd LLC boosted its stake in Houlihan Lokey by 85.6% during the 1st quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 644 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $104,000 after purchasing an additional 297 shares during the last quarter. Jennison Associates LLC grew its holdings in shares of Houlihan Lokey by 12.1% during the first quarter. Jennison Associates LLC now owns 344,604 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $55,654,000 after buying an additional 37,300 shares in the last quarter. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC grew its holdings in shares of Houlihan Lokey by 47.3% during the first quarter. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC now owns 6,531 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,055,000 after buying an additional 2,098 shares in the last quarter. Finally, OneAscent Financial Services LLC raised its position in shares of Houlihan Lokey by 59.7% in the first quarter. OneAscent Financial Services LLC now owns 3,176 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $516,000 after buying an additional 1,187 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 78.07% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Houlihan Lokey

In other Houlihan Lokey news, General Counsel Christopher M. Crain sold 500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, September 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $196.22, for a total value of $98,110.00. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, Chairman Paul Eric Siegert sold 40,000 shares of Houlihan Lokey stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, August 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $199.95, for a total transaction of $7,998,000.00. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders have sold 47,311 shares of company stock valued at $9,477,040 over the last 90 days. 22.83% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Houlihan Lokey Stock Performance

HLI opened at $179.85 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $12.65 billion, a PE ratio of 30.28 and a beta of 0.88. Houlihan Lokey, Inc. has a one year low of $137.99 and a one year high of $211.78. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $195.36 and its 200 day moving average price is $187.85.

Houlihan Lokey (NYSE:HLI  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The financial services provider reported $1.84 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.69 by $0.15. Houlihan Lokey had a return on equity of 23.75% and a net margin of 16.46%.The company had revenue of $659.45 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $639.08 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $1.46 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 14.7% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Houlihan Lokey, Inc. will post 5.98 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Houlihan Lokey Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 15th. Investors of record on Monday, December 1st will be issued a $0.60 dividend. This represents a $2.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.3%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 1st. Houlihan Lokeys payout ratio is 38.71%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Houlihan Lokey from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, August 2nd. Morgan Stanley boosted their target price on Houlihan Lokey from $192.00 to $213.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Monday, September 8th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c+) rating on shares of Houlihan Lokey in a research report on Thursday. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reduced their price objective on Houlihan Lokey from $232.00 to $226.00 and set a moderate buy rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, October 13th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets assumed coverage on Houlihan Lokey in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. They set an outperform rating and a $230.00 price objective on the stock. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have assigned a Buy rating and five have issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $212.43.

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Houlihan Lokey Profile

(Free Report)

Houlihan Lokey, Inc, an investment banking company, provides merger and acquisition (M&A), capital market, financial restructuring, and financial and valuation advisory services worldwide. It operates in three segments: Corporate Finance, Financial Restructuring, and Financial and Valuation Advisory.

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Prospera Financial Services Inc boosted its stake in shares of BorgWarner Inc. (NYSE:BWA  Free Report) by 10.2% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 15,319 shares of the auto parts companys stock after acquiring an additional 1,419 shares during the quarter. Prospera Financial Services Incs holdings in BorgWarner were worth $513,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the company. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd grew its stake in shares of BorgWarner by 1,133.3% during the 2nd quarter. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd now owns 777 shares of the auto parts companys stock worth $26,000 after purchasing an additional 714 shares during the period. Assetmark Inc. boosted its holdings in BorgWarner by 81.8% during the second quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 809 shares of the auto parts companys stock worth $27,000 after buying an additional 364 shares in the last quarter. Manchester Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in BorgWarner during the first quarter valued at $30,000. Trust Co. of Vermont increased its holdings in BorgWarner by 55,000.0% in the second quarter. Trust Co. of Vermont now owns 1,102 shares of the auto parts companys stock valued at $37,000 after buying an additional 1,100 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Hantz Financial Services Inc. increased its holdings in BorgWarner by 111.9% in the second quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 1,108 shares of the auto parts companys stock valued at $37,000 after buying an additional 585 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 95.67% of the companys stock.

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BorgWarner Trading Down 1.4%

Shares of BWA stock opened at $44.75 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 2.02, a quick ratio of 1.66 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64. BorgWarner Inc. has a twelve month low of $24.40 and a twelve month high of $46.39. The companys 50-day moving average price is $43.73 and its 200-day moving average price is $38.42. The stock has a market cap of $9.57 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 47.60, a PEG ratio of 1.58 and a beta of 1.06.

BorgWarner ( NYSE:BWA Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The auto parts company reported $1.24 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.16 by $0.08. The firm had revenue of $3.59 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.58 billion. BorgWarner had a net margin of 1.50% and a return on equity of 16.17%. BorgWarners revenue was up 4.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business earned $1.09 earnings per share. BorgWarner has set its FY 2025 guidance at 4.600-4.750 EPS. As a group, equities analysts predict that BorgWarner Inc. will post 4.28 earnings per share for the current year.

BorgWarner announced that its board has authorized a stock buyback plan on Thursday, July 31st that authorizes the company to repurchase $1.00 billion in shares. This repurchase authorization authorizes the auto parts company to buy up to 13.2% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase plans are often a sign that the companys board believes its shares are undervalued.

BorgWarner Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 15th. Shareholders of record on Monday, December 1st will be given a $0.17 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 1st. This represents a $0.68 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.5%. BorgWarners payout ratio is currently 107.94%.

Insider Activity

In other news, VP Stefan Demmerle sold 15,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, November 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $45.52, for a total transaction of $682,800.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president directly owned 209,040 shares in the company, valued at approximately $9,515,500.80. This represents a 6.70% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, VP Isabelle Mckenzie sold 3,200 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $44.23, for a total value of $141,536.00. Following the sale, the vice president directly owned 43,555 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,926,437.65. The trade was a 6.84% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders have sold a total of 31,972 shares of company stock valued at $1,425,479 in the last quarter. Insiders own 0.45% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities research analysts have recently commented on BWA shares. Evercore ISI raised their target price on BorgWarner from $42.00 to $50.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, October 13th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c) rating on shares of BorgWarner in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Barclays upped their target price on shares of BorgWarner from $45.00 to $55.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Friday, October 10th. Bank of America downgraded shares of BorgWarner from a buy rating to a neutral rating and raised their price target for the stock from $41.00 to $46.00 in a research note on Wednesday, September 10th. Finally, Baird R W upgraded shares of BorgWarner from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Wednesday, September 3rd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, ten have assigned a Buy rating and six have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, BorgWarner presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $45.85.

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BorgWarner Profile

(Free Report)

BorgWarner Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides solutions for combustion, hybrid, and electric vehicles worldwide. It offers turbochargers, eBoosters, eTurbos, timing systems, emissions systems, thermal systems, gasoline ignition technology, smart remote actuators, powertrain sensors, cabin heaters, battery modules and systems, battery heaters, and battery charging.

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KATHMANDU, Nov 15: Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Nepal, Chen Song, has expressed the commitment of China to provide every possible support to the Government of Nepal for the successful completion of the general elections slated for March 5, 2026.

The Chinese ambassador expressed satisfaction over the progress in bilateral cooperation projects, stating that there has also been significant progress of projects under the 'Belt and Road Initiative'.

During an interaction with the heads and editors of mainstream media on Friday evening, he said, "There has been progress in all areas of bilateral cooperation, including trade, investment, and the construction of industrial parks. It is not unusual for some projects to experience some delays."

Ambassador Chen said that China is also working in close contact and coordination with the incumbent government in Nepal, and since this government has the 'mandate' of holding general election, they have prioritised the election in their work.

Related story China commits every possible support for successful conduct of...

The Chinese Ambassador stated that the five-year plan recently unveiled by China, while opening doors for economic development for all neighbours including Nepal, has been formulated according to Nepal's requirements.

"Work is in progress on a project to bring Nepalese agricultural products to the Chinese market, and our preparations have reached the final stage," Ambassador Chen said while furnishing salient features of the five-year plan. He believes that these projects would prove to be a boon for China and Nepal.

Reiterating that China's desire is for Nepal's political stability, development and prosperity, he stated that China is working closely with the interim government.

While expressing that Nepal's development has been slow due to the lack of strategic planning and reliable development partners, Ambassador Chen said that projects for Nepal's development have also been included in China's Five-Year Plan to help Nepal's development.

He added that projects to assist other neighbours have also been included in the 15th five-year plan.

The Chinese Ambassador expressed gratitude to successive governments of Nepal for consistently upholding the One-China Principle and for recognizing Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao as inseparable parts of China. He said China highly values Nepals firm and long-standing position on this matter and noted that the friendship between the two countries has always remained cordial. According to him, Nepali Gen Z leaders too have no differences on issues that affect ChinaNepal relations.

Responding to a question, the ambassador said China and Nepal have long been cooperating in international forums and both countries continue to support a United Nations-centered, rules-based international order.

He also commented on contemporary political movements, stating that initiatives similar to Nepals recent Gen Z Movement had appeared in China before the establishment of modern China. He added that such movements should be understood within their respective national contexts, and in Nepals case the issues raised, including good governance, were aimed at bringing positive change with the nation at the center.

Ambassador Chen further outlined the focus of Chinas 15th Five-Year Plan, explaining that it seeks to strengthen the leadership of the Communist Party of China, prioritize the well-being of the people, achieve high-level development and raise per-capita income to 20,000 US dollars by the end of the plan period.

He said the plan aims to ensure balanced development, expand Chinas policy of openness, create new opportunities for cooperation, support the multilateral trading system, strengthen social governance with Chinese characteristics, and advance efforts toward national rejuvenation.
Beacon Harbor Wealth Advisors Inc. trimmed its position in Prologis, Inc. (NYSE:PLD  Free Report) by 7.9% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 56,454 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 4,870 shares during the quarter. Beacon Harbor Wealth Advisors Inc.s holdings in Prologis were worth $5,934,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of PLD. Activest Wealth Management boosted its holdings in shares of Prologis by 637.1% in the 1st quarter. Activest Wealth Management now owns 258 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 223 shares during the last quarter. Pandora Wealth Inc. acquired a new position in Prologis during the first quarter valued at $34,000. GKV Capital Management Co. Inc. acquired a new position in Prologis during the first quarter valued at $34,000. Saudi Central Bank purchased a new stake in Prologis in the first quarter valued at $41,000. Finally, Barrett & Company Inc. acquired a new stake in Prologis during the second quarter worth about $44,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 93.50% of the companys stock.

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Prologis Stock Performance

Shares of PLD opened at $122.71 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.62, a quick ratio of 0.65 and a current ratio of 0.64. Prologis, Inc. has a 1 year low of $85.35 and a 1 year high of $127.50. The stock has a market capitalization of $113.98 billion, a PE ratio of 35.78, a PEG ratio of 3.13 and a beta of 1.29. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $119.14 and a 200-day simple moving average of $111.71.

Prologis Announces Dividend

Prologis ( NYSE:PLD Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 15th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.49 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.44 by $0.05. The business had revenue of $2.21 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.03 billion. Prologis had a net margin of 36.71% and a return on equity of 5.55%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 8.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $1.43 EPS. Prologis has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.780-5.810 EPS. On average, analysts predict that Prologis, Inc. will post 5.73 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, September 30th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, September 16th were paid a $1.01 dividend. This represents a $4.04 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.3%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 16th. Prologiss dividend payout ratio is currently 117.78%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Prologis

In other Prologis news, CAO Lori A. Palazzolo sold 25,000 shares of Prologis stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $111.33, for a total transaction of $2,783,250.00. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer owned 414 shares of the companys stock, valued at $46,090.62. The trade was a 98.37% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, Director Cristina Gabriela Bita sold 500 shares of Prologis stock in a transaction on Monday, November 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $123.14, for a total transaction of $61,570.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director directly owned 8,829 shares in the company, valued at $1,087,203.06. The trade was a 5.36% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders have sold a total of 27,000 shares of company stock worth $3,013,665 over the last quarter. 0.57% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of research analysts have weighed in on PLD shares. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price objective on shares of Prologis from $120.00 to $139.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Monday, October 27th. UBS Group set a $133.00 price objective on Prologis in a report on Monday. Scotiabank increased their price objective on shares of Prologis from $127.00 to $133.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a report on Monday, November 10th. Truist Financial reiterated a buy rating and set a $131.00 price target (up previously from $120.00) on shares of Prologis in a report on Monday, October 20th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c+) rating on shares of Prologis in a report on Thursday. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, ten have given a Buy rating and seven have assigned a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $125.39.

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Prologis Company Profile

(Free Report)

Prologis, Inc is the global leader in logistics real estate with a focus on high-barrier, high-growth markets. At March 31, 2024, the company owned or had investments in, on a wholly owned basis or through co-investment ventures, properties and development projects expected to total approximately 1.2 billion square feet (115 million square meters) in 19 countries.

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Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft (NYSE:DB  Get Free Report) has been given a consensus rating of Hold by the eleven analysts that are currently covering the firm, Marketbeat.com reports. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have issued a hold rating, four have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company.

Several analysts recently weighed in on DB shares. Royal Bank Of Canada restated an outperform rating on shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft in a report on Monday, July 28th. Jefferies Financial Group assumed coverage on Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft in a research note on Monday, October 20th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group cut shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, August 26th. Kepler Capital Markets lowered shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, July 28th. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday, November 1st.

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Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on DB

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft Stock Performance

NYSE:DB opened at $36.95 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.39, a quick ratio of 0.79 and a current ratio of 0.79. The firm has a market cap of $73.60 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.63, a PEG ratio of 1.12 and a beta of 1.02. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft has a 52-week low of $16.02 and a 52-week high of $38.78. The businesss fifty day moving average is $35.67 and its 200 day moving average is $32.42.

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft (NYSE:DB  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The bank reported $0.97 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.81 by $0.16. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft had a net margin of 7.99% and a return on equity of 6.13%. The company had revenue of $9.44 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $7.75 billion. Research analysts predict that Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft will post 2.93 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Legacy Capital Group California Inc. increased its stake in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 2.2% in the 3rd quarter. Legacy Capital Group California Inc. now owns 12,368 shares of the banks stock worth $438,000 after buying an additional 264 shares in the last quarter. Evergreen Capital Management LLC grew its position in shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 1.9% during the second quarter. Evergreen Capital Management LLC now owns 15,436 shares of the banks stock worth $452,000 after purchasing an additional 282 shares in the last quarter. Cresset Asset Management LLC raised its stake in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 2.4% during the 3rd quarter. Cresset Asset Management LLC now owns 11,955 shares of the banks stock valued at $423,000 after purchasing an additional 285 shares during the period. Baron Wealth Management LLC boosted its stake in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 1.1% in the 3rd quarter. Baron Wealth Management LLC now owns 27,401 shares of the banks stock worth $970,000 after purchasing an additional 302 shares during the period. Finally, HB Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 3.5% during the 3rd quarter. HB Wealth Management LLC now owns 9,057 shares of the banks stock valued at $321,000 after buying an additional 304 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 27.90% of the companys stock.

About Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft

(Get Free Report)

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft, a stock corporation, provides corporate and investment banking, and asset management products and services to private individuals, corporate entities, and institutional clients in Germany, the United Kingdom, rest of Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia-Pacific.

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Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp lifted its holdings in Amcor PLC (NYSE:AMCR  Free Report) by 90.4% in the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 2,712,237 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,287,593 shares during the period. Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corps holdings in Amcor were worth $24,925,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. State of Alaska Department of Revenue grew its position in shares of Amcor by 51.6% during the second quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue now owns 464,293 shares of the companys stock worth $4,266,000 after buying an additional 158,082 shares in the last quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. lifted its stake in Amcor by 71.4% in the second quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 2,446,429 shares of the companys stock worth $22,483,000 after acquiring an additional 1,019,306 shares during the last quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC grew its holdings in Amcor by 54,855.7% during the 2nd quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC now owns 605,062 shares of the companys stock worth $5,561,000 after acquiring an additional 603,961 shares in the last quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. increased its position in shares of Amcor by 63.5% in the 2nd quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 5,012,038 shares of the companys stock valued at $46,061,000 after purchasing an additional 1,946,147 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Focus Partners Advisor Solutions LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Amcor in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $463,000. 45.14% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities research analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. assumed coverage on shares of Amcor in a research report on Friday, September 19th. They set an overweight rating and a $10.00 price objective for the company. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of Amcor in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Morgan Stanley reiterated an overweight rating and issued a $11.50 price objective on shares of Amcor in a report on Wednesday. Royal Bank Of Canada initiated coverage on Amcor in a research note on Monday, September 22nd. They set a sector perform rating for the company. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group began coverage on Amcor in a report on Wednesday, September 10th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Eleven research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $10.91.

Amcor Price Performance

Shares of AMCR opened at $8.50 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.18, a quick ratio of 0.71 and a current ratio of 1.21. Amcor PLC has a fifty-two week low of $7.66 and a fifty-two week high of $10.70. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $8.16 and a 200-day simple moving average of $8.84. The company has a market capitalization of $19.58 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 23.60, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.14 and a beta of 0.72.

Amcor (NYSE:AMCR  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported $0.19 EPS for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $0.19. Amcor had a return on equity of 19.43% and a net margin of 3.40%.The firm had revenue of $5.75 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.77 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $0.16 EPS. The firms revenue was up 71.3% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Amcor PLC will post 0.74 earnings per share for the current year.

Amcor Increases Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 17th. Investors of record on Friday, November 28th will be issued a dividend of $0.13 per share. This is a boost from Amcors previous quarterly dividend of $0.13. This represents a $0.52 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.1%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 28th. Amcors dividend payout ratio is 152.94%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Amcor

In other news, Director Stephen E. Sterrett acquired 10,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 19th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $8.55 per share, for a total transaction of $85,500.00. Following the transaction, the director directly owned 10,000 shares in the company, valued at approximately $85,500. This represents a ? increase in their position. The acquisition was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. 0.32% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Amcor Company Profile

(Free Report)

Amcor plc develops, produces, and sells packaging products in Europe, North America, Latin America, Africa, and the Asia Pacific regions. The company operates through two segments, Flexibles and Rigid Packaging. The Flexibles segment provides flexible and film packaging products in the food and beverage, medical and pharmaceutical, fresh produce, snack food, personal care, and other industries.

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Cetera Investment Advisers boosted its holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:TSM  Free Report) by 7.4% during the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 554,607 shares of the semiconductor companys stock after acquiring an additional 38,421 shares during the period. Cetera Investment Advisers holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing were worth $125,613,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Alliance Wealth Advisors LLC raised its stake in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 2.4% during the 2nd quarter. Alliance Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,815 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $411,000 after purchasing an additional 43 shares during the period. Pflug Koory LLC increased its holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 3.9% during the second quarter. Pflug Koory LLC now owns 1,133 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $257,000 after buying an additional 43 shares during the last quarter. Frazier Financial Advisors LLC raised its position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 9.1% in the second quarter. Frazier Financial Advisors LLC now owns 517 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $117,000 after acquiring an additional 43 shares during the period. Flagship Harbor Advisors LLC raised its position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 1.2% in the second quarter. Flagship Harbor Advisors LLC now owns 3,621 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $820,000 after acquiring an additional 43 shares during the period. Finally, Liberty One Investment Management LLC boosted its stake in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 4.3% in the second quarter. Liberty One Investment Management LLC now owns 1,076 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $244,000 after acquiring an additional 44 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 16.51% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Barclays raised their price target on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from $330.00 to $355.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a research report on Thursday. Itau BBA Securities started coverage on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a research report on Tuesday, October 7th. They set an outperform rating on the stock. Wall Street Zen lowered Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday, November 1st. Finally, Susquehanna boosted their price objective on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from $300.00 to $400.00 and gave the company a positive rating in a research note on Friday, October 10th. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has issued a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $371.67.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Price Performance

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing stock opened at $284.79 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $1.48 trillion, a P/E ratio of 29.21, a PEG ratio of 1.02 and a beta of 1.31. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. has a one year low of $134.25 and a one year high of $311.37. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20, a current ratio of 2.37 and a quick ratio of 2.15. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $285.44 and a 200-day moving average price of $241.53.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE:TSM  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 16th. The semiconductor company reported $2.92 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.59 by $0.33. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing had a return on equity of 36.06% and a net margin of 43.72%.The business had revenue of $32.36 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $951.89 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $1.94 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was up 40.1% on a year-over-year basis. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing has set its Q4 2025 guidance at EPS. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. will post 9.2 EPS for the current year.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Increases Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, April 9th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, March 17th will be given a $0.9678 dividend. This represents a $3.87 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.4%. This is an increase from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings previous quarterly dividend of $0.83. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, March 17th. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 26.97%.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Profile

(Free Report)

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, packages, tests, and sells integrated circuits and other semiconductor devices in Taiwan, China, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Japan, the United States, and internationally. It provides a range of wafer fabrication processes, including processes to manufacture complementary metal- oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) logic, mixed-signal, radio frequency, embedded memory, bipolar CMOS mixed-signal, and others.

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Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey lifted its stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (NYSE:EW  Free Report) by 2.8% in the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 87,365 shares of the medical research companys stock after buying an additional 2,413 shares during the quarter. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jerseys holdings in Edwards Lifesciences were worth $6,833,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Several other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in EW. Nuveen LLC bought a new stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences in the 1st quarter worth about $330,881,000. Jennison Associates LLC grew its stake in Edwards Lifesciences by 34.3% in the first quarter. Jennison Associates LLC now owns 10,086,033 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $731,036,000 after purchasing an additional 2,576,383 shares in the last quarter. Mirova US LLC increased its holdings in Edwards Lifesciences by 56.2% in the second quarter. Mirova US LLC now owns 2,931,297 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $229,257,000 after buying an additional 1,054,301 shares during the last quarter. VIRGINIA RETIREMENT SYSTEMS ET Al bought a new stake in Edwards Lifesciences in the second quarter valued at about $67,832,000. Finally, Woodline Partners LP raised its stake in Edwards Lifesciences by 7,805.0% during the first quarter. Woodline Partners LP now owns 825,358 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $59,822,000 after buying an additional 814,917 shares in the last quarter. 79.46% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Activity at Edwards Lifesciences

In related news, VP Daniel J. Lippis sold 1,020 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $82.55, for a total value of $84,201.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president owned 22,002 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,816,265.10. This represents a 4.43% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, insider Larry L. Wood sold 8,950 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, August 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $78.06, for a total transaction of $698,637.00. Following the sale, the insider owned 206,900 shares in the company, valued at $16,150,614. This trade represents a 4.15% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders have sold a total of 22,970 shares of company stock worth $1,862,878 over the last ninety days. 0.34% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Edwards Lifesciences Stock Up 0.3%

EW stock opened at $86.35 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 3.87, a current ratio of 4.68 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.06. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $78.20 and its 200 day simple moving average is $77.72. The stock has a market cap of $50.11 billion, a PE ratio of 12.42, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.97 and a beta of 1.03. Edwards Lifesciences Corporation has a fifty-two week low of $65.31 and a fifty-two week high of $87.21.

Edwards Lifesciences (NYSE:EW  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The medical research company reported $0.67 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.59 by $0.08. The business had revenue of $1.55 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.49 billion. Edwards Lifesciences had a return on equity of 15.01% and a net margin of 72.96%.The businesss revenue was up 14.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.67 earnings per share. Edwards Lifesciences has set its FY 2025 guidance at 2.560-2.620 EPS. Q4 2025 guidance at 0.580-0.640 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Edwards Lifesciences Corporation will post 2.45 EPS for the current year.

Analyst Ratings Changes

EW has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Piper Sandler reiterated an overweight rating and issued a $95.00 price target (up from $90.00) on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a report on Friday, October 31st. Stifel Nicolaus lifted their price objective on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $85.00 to $95.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, October 31st. Barclays reissued an overweight rating and set a $99.00 target price (up from $95.00) on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a report on Friday, October 31st. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c) rating on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein reaffirmed a market perform rating and set a $90.00 price objective on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fourteen have assigned a Buy rating, ten have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $91.39.

Read Our Latest Analysis on EW

Edwards Lifesciences Profile

(Free Report)

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation provides products and technologies for structural heart disease and critical care monitoring in the United States, Europe, Japan, and internationally. It offers transcatheter heart valve replacement products for the minimally invasive replacement of aortic heart valves under the Edwards SAPIEN family of valves system; and transcatheter heart valve repair and replacement products to treat mitral and tricuspid valve diseases under the PASCAL PRECISION and Cardioband names.

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Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS raised its holdings in Southern Company (The) (NYSE:SO  Free Report) by 1.4% during the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 2,120,654 shares of the utilities providers stock after purchasing an additional 29,904 shares during the quarter. Southern comprises 1.0% of Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYSs investment portfolio, making the stock its 17th biggest holding. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYSs holdings in Southern were worth $194,740,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its stake in Southern by 1.4% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 104,210,177 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $9,582,126,000 after buying an additional 1,419,724 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC increased its position in Southern by 0.9% during the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 26,006,919 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $2,377,494,000 after buying an additional 241,572 shares in the last quarter. Northern Trust Corp raised its holdings in shares of Southern by 1.0% in the first quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 10,912,663 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,003,419,000 after acquiring an additional 107,394 shares during the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. lifted its position in shares of Southern by 1.2% in the first quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 6,680,776 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $614,297,000 after acquiring an additional 81,066 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nuveen LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Southern during the first quarter valued at $510,229,000. 64.10% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several brokerages recently weighed in on SO. Evercore ISI began coverage on shares of Southern in a research note on Monday, October 6th. They issued an in-line rating and a $103.00 target price for the company. BMO Capital Markets lifted their price target on shares of Southern from $98.00 to $102.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, July 22nd. UBS Group upped their price objective on shares of Southern from $100.00 to $104.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, October 10th. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Southern from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday. Finally, Barclays set a $70.00 target price on shares of Southern in a research note on Tuesday, October 14th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have given a Buy rating, twelve have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Southern has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $99.56.

Southern Trading Down 0.6%

Shares of SO stock opened at $90.65 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $99.81 billion, a P/E ratio of 23.30, a PEG ratio of 3.31 and a beta of 0.45. Southern Company has a 1-year low of $80.46 and a 1-year high of $100.83. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.69, a current ratio of 0.74 and a quick ratio of 0.54. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $94.11 and its 200-day simple moving average is $92.50.

Southern (NYSE:SO  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The utilities provider reported $1.60 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.51 by $0.09. Southern had a net margin of 15.10% and a return on equity of 12.09%. The firm had revenue of $7.82 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.04 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $1.39 earnings per share. Southerns revenue was up 7.5% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Southern Company will post 4.29 EPS for the current year.

Southern Dividend Announcement

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 8th. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be paid a dividend of $0.74 per share. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 17th. This represents a $2.96 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.3%. Southerns dividend payout ratio is currently 73.27%.

Southern Profile

(Free Report)

The Southern Company, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. The company also develops, constructs, acquires, owns, and manages power generation assets, including renewable energy projects and sells electricity in the wholesale market; and distributes natural gas in Illinois, Georgia, Virginia, and Tennessee, as well as provides gas marketing services, gas distribution operations, and gas pipeline investments operations.

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Fiera Capital Corp grew its stake in Rogers Communication, Inc. (NYSE:RCI  Free Report) (TSE:RCI.B) by 56.1% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 78,335 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock after purchasing an additional 28,163 shares during the quarter. Fiera Capital Corps holdings in Rogers Communication were worth $2,322,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

A number of other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the company. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in Rogers Communication by 21.2% during the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 3,144,900 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock worth $96,613,000 after buying an additional 550,132 shares during the last quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. grew its position in shares of Rogers Communication by 7.9% during the 2nd quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 17,744 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock valued at $526,000 after buying an additional 1,297 shares during the last quarter. Tobam boosted its stake in Rogers Communication by 148.6% in the second quarter. Tobam now owns 4,005 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock valued at $119,000 after acquiring an additional 2,394 shares during the period. Forsta AP Fonden grew its holdings in shares of Rogers Communication by 30.7% during the second quarter. Forsta AP Fonden now owns 102,100 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock valued at $3,022,000 after purchasing an additional 24,000 shares during the last quarter. Finally, SBI Securities Co. Ltd. raised its position in shares of Rogers Communication by 106.2% during the 2nd quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 1,951 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock worth $58,000 after purchasing an additional 1,005 shares during the period. 45.49% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Rogers Communication Trading Up 0.0%

NYSE:RCI opened at $38.38 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $20.74 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 4.26, a PEG ratio of 3.29 and a beta of 0.81. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.55, a quick ratio of 0.59 and a current ratio of 0.62. Rogers Communication, Inc. has a 1 year low of $23.18 and a 1 year high of $40.26. The business has a fifty day moving average of $36.75 and a 200-day moving average of $32.70.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Rogers Communication ( NYSE:RCI Get Free Report ) (TSE:RCI.B) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 23rd. The Wireless communications provider reported $0.99 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.92 by $0.07. The business had revenue of $3.84 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.33 billion. Rogers Communication had a net margin of 32.49% and a return on equity of 17.14%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 4.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $1.42 earnings per share. Equities analysts predict that Rogers Communication, Inc. will post 3.57 earnings per share for the current year.

A number of research analysts recently issued reports on the company. Cowen restated a buy rating on shares of Rogers Communication in a research report on Friday, October 24th. Barclays boosted their price target on shares of Rogers Communication from $33.00 to $36.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Monday, November 10th. Scotiabank reaffirmed a sector perform rating on shares of Rogers Communication in a report on Monday, October 20th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Rogers Communication in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $36.00.

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Rogers Communication Company Profile

(Free Report)

Rogers Communications Inc operates as a communications and media company in Canada. It operates through three segments: Wireless, Cable, and Media. The company offers mobile Internet access, wireless voice and enhanced voice, device financing, device protection, global voice and data roaming, wireless home phone, bridging landline, machine-to-machine and Internet of Things solutions, and advanced wireless solutions for businesses, as well as device shipping and express pickup services; and postpaid and prepaid services under the Rogers, Fido, and chatr brands.

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Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey increased its stake in Packaging Corporation of America (NYSE:PKG  Free Report) by 3.7% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 33,453 shares of the industrial products companys stock after buying an additional 1,205 shares during the period. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jerseys holdings in Packaging Corporation of America were worth $6,304,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

A number of other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in PKG. Clearstead Trust LLC grew its stake in shares of Packaging Corporation of America by 118.6% in the first quarter. Clearstead Trust LLC now owns 129 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $26,000 after acquiring an additional 70 shares during the last quarter. Bruce G. Allen Investments LLC increased its stake in Packaging Corporation of America by 72.2% during the 2nd quarter. Bruce G. Allen Investments LLC now owns 136 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $26,000 after purchasing an additional 57 shares in the last quarter. TCTC Holdings LLC raised its holdings in Packaging Corporation of America by 86.4% in the first quarter. TCTC Holdings LLC now owns 151 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $30,000 after buying an additional 70 shares during the last quarter. Trust Co. of Toledo NA OH purchased a new position in Packaging Corporation of America in the second quarter worth about $33,000. Finally, Geneos Wealth Management Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Packaging Corporation of America by 40.4% in the first quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 198 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $39,000 after buying an additional 57 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 89.78% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several brokerages recently weighed in on PKG. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Packaging Corporation of America from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report on Saturday, November 8th. Truist Financial upped their price target on Packaging Corporation of America from $262.00 to $264.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Monday, October 13th. Zacks Research cut Packaging Corporation of America from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, October 27th. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price objective on Packaging Corporation of America from $200.00 to $222.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Tuesday, October 7th. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b-) rating on shares of Packaging Corporation of America in a research note on Thursday. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have issued a Buy rating and five have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $230.17.

Insider Activity at Packaging Corporation of America

In related news, CEO Mark W. Kowlzan sold 25,000 shares of Packaging Corporation of America stock in a transaction on Thursday, September 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $215.97, for a total transaction of $5,399,250.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 437,378 shares in the company, valued at approximately $94,460,526.66. The trade was a 5.41% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. 1.50% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Packaging Corporation of America Stock Down 0.8%

Shares of PKG stock opened at $197.55 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 3.54, a quick ratio of 2.32 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.54. 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 cap of $17.78 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.97, a P/E/G ratio of 1.44 and a beta of 0.92. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $208.27 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $200.89.

Packaging Corporation of America (NYSE:PKG  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 22nd. The industrial products company reported $2.73 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.83 by ($0.10). Packaging Corporation of America had a net margin of 10.18% and a return on equity of 19.98%. The business had revenue of $2.31 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.29 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $2.65 EPS. The companys revenue was up 6.0% on a year-over-year basis. Packaging Corporation of America has set its Q4 2025 guidance at 2.400-2.400 EPS. On average, research analysts expect that Packaging Corporation of America will post 10.44 earnings per share for the current year.

Packaging Corporation of America Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Shareholders of record on Monday, September 15th were paid a dividend of $1.25 per share. The ex-dividend date was Monday, September 15th. This represents a $5.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.5%. Packaging Corporation of Americas dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 50.56%.

Packaging Corporation of America Company Profile

(Free Report)

Packaging Corporation of America engages in the production of container products. It operates through the following segments: Packaging, Paper, and Corporate and Other. The Packaging segment offers a variety of corrugated packaging products, such as conventional shipping containers. The Paper segment manufactures and sells a range of papers, including communication-based papers, and pressure sensitive papers.

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Olympiad Research LP purchased a new position in shares of NexGen Energy (NYSE:NXE  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm purchased 10,505 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $73,000.

Other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Compound Planning Inc. acquired a new position in NexGen Energy in the first quarter valued at approximately $46,000. PenderFund Capital Management Ltd. increased its position in NexGen Energy by 45.0% in the 1st quarter. PenderFund Capital Management Ltd. now owns 11,600 shares of the companys stock valued at $52,000 after acquiring an additional 3,600 shares during the period. Ground Swell Capital LLC bought a new position in shares of NexGen Energy in the first quarter worth $55,000. Canton Hathaway LLC acquired a new position in shares of NexGen Energy during the second quarter valued at $57,000. Finally, DekaBank Deutsche Girozentrale grew its position in NexGen Energy by 318.3% in the 2nd quarter. DekaBank Deutsche Girozentrale now owns 11,651 shares of the companys stock valued at $77,000 after buying an additional 8,866 shares in the last quarter. 42.43% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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NexGen Energy Price Performance

NXE stock opened at $8.14 on Friday. NexGen Energy has a 52-week low of $3.91 and a 52-week high of $9.95. The company has a 50-day moving average of $8.70 and a two-hundred day moving average of $7.31. The stock has a market capitalization of $5.32 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -32.54 and a beta of 1.44.

Analyst Ratings Changes

NexGen Energy ( NYSE:NXE Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported ($0.03) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of ($0.02) by ($0.01). Equities analysts expect that NexGen Energy will post -0.05 EPS for the current fiscal year.

NXE has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. TD Securities restated a buy rating on shares of NexGen Energy in a report on Friday, August 8th. Raymond James Financial reiterated an outperform rating on shares of NexGen Energy in a report on Friday, October 10th. Weiss Ratings reissued a sell (d) rating on shares of NexGen Energy in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Zacks Research raised NexGen Energy from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, October 13th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have issued a Buy rating, one has assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, NexGen Energy presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on NexGen Energy

About NexGen Energy

(Free Report)

NexGen Energy Ltd., an exploration and development stage company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and evaluation and development of uranium properties in Canada. It holds a 100% interest in the Rook I project that consists of 32 contiguous mineral claims totaling an area of 35,065 hectares located in the southwestern Athabasca Basin of Saskatchewan.

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Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey increased its position in shares of Dell Technologies Inc. (NYSE:DELL  Free Report) by 20.9% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 48,289 shares of the technology companys stock after buying an additional 8,344 shares during the period. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jerseys holdings in Dell Technologies were worth $5,920,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in DELL. Symphony Financial Services Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Dell Technologies in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $275,000. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Dell Technologies by 4.0% in the 2nd quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 72,002 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $8,827,000 after acquiring an additional 2,790 shares during the period. Forsta AP Fonden raised its position in shares of Dell Technologies by 2.0% in the 2nd quarter. Forsta AP Fonden now owns 65,800 shares of the technology companys stock worth $8,067,000 after acquiring an additional 1,300 shares in the last quarter. National Pension Service lifted its stake in shares of Dell Technologies by 0.4% during the 2nd quarter. National Pension Service now owns 730,111 shares of the technology companys stock worth $89,512,000 after purchasing an additional 3,155 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Boston Partners boosted its position in Dell Technologies by 14.9% during the second quarter. Boston Partners now owns 5,896,622 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $724,578,000 after purchasing an additional 763,745 shares in the last quarter. 76.37% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Insider Activity

In other news, Director Lake Group L.L.C. Silver sold 6,617 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, October 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $151.63, for a total transaction of $1,003,335.71. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, Director Ellen Jamison Kullman sold 79,806 shares of Dell Technologies stock in a transaction on Wednesday, October 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $153.56, for a total transaction of $12,255,009.36. Following the completion of the sale, the director directly owned 65,662 shares in the company, valued at $10,083,056.72. This represents a 54.86% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Over the last three months, insiders sold 4,537,755 shares of company stock worth $642,644,973. 42.00% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities analysts have commented on the stock. Bank of America boosted their target price on shares of Dell Technologies from $167.00 to $170.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, October 1st. Argus boosted their price objective on shares of Dell Technologies from $150.00 to $200.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, October 9th. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price target on shares of Dell Technologies from $160.00 to $180.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Daiwa Capital Markets raised their price objective on Dell Technologies from $125.00 to $140.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, September 11th. Finally, Mizuho increased their price target on Dell Technologies from $160.00 to $170.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eighteen have given a Buy rating and seven have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $162.80.

View Our Latest Analysis on Dell Technologies

Dell Technologies Stock Down 0.3%

Shares of NYSE DELL opened at $133.58 on Friday. Dell Technologies Inc. has a 52 week low of $66.25 and a 52 week high of $168.08. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $143.87 and its 200 day moving average price is $128.45. The firm has a market cap of $89.82 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.64, a P/E/G ratio of 0.91 and a beta of 1.02.

Dell Technologies (NYSE:DELL  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 5th. The technology company reported $1.68 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. The company had revenue of $26.43 billion during the quarter. Dell Technologies had a net margin of 4.73% and a negative return on equity of 236.21%. Dell Technologies has set its FY24 guidance at $6.10-6.50 EPS. As a group, research analysts expect that Dell Technologies Inc. will post 6.93 earnings per share for the current year.

Dell Technologies Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 31st. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, October 21st were paid a dividend of $0.525 per share. This represents a $2.10 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.6%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, October 21st. Dell Technologiess dividend payout ratio is presently 30.88%.

Dell Technologies Profile

(Free Report)

Dell Technologies Inc designs, develops, manufactures, markets, sells, and supports various comprehensive and integrated solutions, products, and services in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Infrastructure Solutions Group (ISG) and Client Solutions Group (CSG).

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KATHMANDU, Nov 15: Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Ishwar Karki has been recommended for promotion to the vacant post of Additional Inspector General (AIG) of Nepal Police.

A meeting of the Promotion Recommendation Committee under the Ministry of Home Affairs held on Friday proposed DIG Karkiwho ranked first on the listfor promotion to AIG.

Related story Five DIGs recommended for promotion to AIG

The AIG position became vacant after the government appointed Dan Bahadur Karki, who also serves as Chief of the Kathmandu Valley Police Office, as Inspector General of Police (IGP).
Kane Investment Management Inc. lessened its holdings in Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE:BSX  Free Report) by 9.9% during the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 9,567 shares of the medical equipment providers stock after selling 1,047 shares during the quarter. Kane Investment Management Inc.s holdings in Boston Scientific were worth $1,028,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the business. GAMMA Investing LLC lifted its holdings in Boston Scientific by 15.4% in the second quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 29,486 shares of the medical equipment providers stock valued at $3,167,000 after acquiring an additional 3,932 shares during the period. MRA Advisory Group acquired a new stake in shares of Boston Scientific in the second quarter valued at about $273,000. Bank of New Hampshire grew its position in Boston Scientific by 552.0% during the second quarter. Bank of New Hampshire now owns 19,724 shares of the medical equipment providers stock worth $2,119,000 after buying an additional 16,699 shares during the period. NS Partners Ltd increased its holdings in Boston Scientific by 1.6% in the first quarter. NS Partners Ltd now owns 368,189 shares of the medical equipment providers stock valued at $37,143,000 after buying an additional 5,704 shares in the last quarter. Finally, New England Research & Management Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Boston Scientific during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $1,133,000. 89.07% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Boston Scientific Trading Down 2.1%

NYSE BSX opened at $102.73 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.49, a quick ratio of 0.82 and a current ratio of 1.37. Boston Scientific Corporation has a one year low of $85.98 and a one year high of $109.50. The companys 50 day moving average price is $99.72 and its 200 day moving average price is $102.56. The firm has a market capitalization of $152.30 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 54.94, a PEG ratio of 2.02 and a beta of 0.58.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Boston Scientific ( NYSE:BSX Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, October 22nd. The medical equipment provider reported $0.75 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.71 by $0.04. Boston Scientific had a net margin of 14.43% and a return on equity of 19.74%. The business had revenue of $5.07 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.97 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $0.63 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 20.3% compared to the same quarter last year. Boston Scientific has set its FY 2025 guidance at 3.020-3.040 EPS. Q4 2025 guidance at 0.770-0.790 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Boston Scientific Corporation will post 2.85 EPS for the current year.

BSX has been the subject of several research analyst reports. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price objective on Boston Scientific from $124.00 to $125.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, October 23rd. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Boston Scientific from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Saturday, October 11th. Canaccord Genuity Group reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $132.00 target price on shares of Boston Scientific in a research note on Thursday, October 23rd. Needham & Company LLC restated a buy rating and issued a $121.00 price objective on shares of Boston Scientific in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Finally, Morgan Stanley lifted their price target on shares of Boston Scientific from $125.00 to $130.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, October 23rd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twenty-one have assigned a Buy rating and two have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Buy and an average price target of $123.77.

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Boston Scientific

Insider Activity

In related news, Director Ellen M. Zane sold 12,891 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $98.28, for a total transaction of $1,266,927.48. Following the sale, the director directly owned 24,134 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,371,889.52. This trade represents a 34.82% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Also, EVP Joseph Michael Fitzgerald sold 50,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $99.47, for a total transaction of $4,973,500.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 178,342 shares of the companys stock, valued at $17,739,678.74. This trade represents a 21.90% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders sold 175,782 shares of company stock valued at $17,742,314 in the last ninety days. Company insiders own 0.50% of the companys stock.

Boston Scientific Profile

(Free Report)

Boston Scientific Corporation develops, manufactures, and markets medical devices for use in various interventional medical specialties worldwide. It operates through two segments, MedSurg and Cardiovascular. The company offers devices to diagnose and treat gastrointestinal and pulmonary conditions, such as resolution clips, biliary stent systems, stents and electrocautery enhanced delivery systems, direct visualization systems, digital catheters, and single-use duodenoscopes; devices to treat urological conditions, including ureteral stents, catheters, baskets, guidewires, sheaths, balloons, single-use digital flexible ureteroscopes, holmium laser systems, artificial urinary sphincter, laser system, fiber, and hydrogel systems; and devices to treat neurological movement disorders and manage chronic pain, such as spinal cord stimulator system, proprietary programming software, radiofrequency generator, indirect decompression systems, practice optimization tools, and deep brain stimulation system.

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Kane Investment Management Inc. bought a new position in shares of Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF (NYSEARCA:PPA  Free Report) in the second quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund bought 4,457 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $632,000.

A number of other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the business. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. grew its stake in Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF by 2.1% during the 1st quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 142,031 shares of the companys stock valued at $16,554,000 after acquiring an additional 2,984 shares in the last quarter. Cerity Partners LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF by 63.9% during the 1st quarter. Cerity Partners LLC now owns 19,157 shares of the companys stock worth $2,233,000 after purchasing an additional 7,471 shares during the last quarter. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF in the first quarter valued at approximately $27,000. ARQ Wealth Advisors LLC increased its holdings in shares of Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF by 19.6% in the first quarter. ARQ Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 5,111 shares of the companys stock valued at $596,000 after purchasing an additional 836 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC lifted its position in Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF by 19.7% during the first quarter. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC now owns 2,567 shares of the companys stock worth $299,000 after buying an additional 422 shares in the last quarter.

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Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF Stock Up 0.2%

Shares of PPA opened at $150.85 on Friday. Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF has a 52-week low of $100.39 and a 52-week high of $160.37. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $153.99 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $144.35. The company has a market capitalization of $6.56 billion, a PE ratio of 30.91 and a beta of 0.87.

About Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF

PowerShares Aerospace & Defense Portfolio (Fund) seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield of the SPADE Defense Index (the Index). The Index is designed to identify a group of companies involved in the development, manufacturing, operations and support of the United States defense, homeland security and aerospace operations.

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Neptune Insurance (NYSE:NP  Get Free Report) had its price target upped by investment analysts at Bank of America from $21.00 to $22.50 in a note issued to investors on Thursday,Benzinga reports. The brokerage currently has an underperform rating on the stock. Bank of Americas price target points to a potential downside of 8.54% from the stocks current price.

A number of other research firms have also recently commented on NP. Piper Sandler assumed coverage on Neptune Insurance in a research note on Monday, October 27th. They set an overweight rating and a $33.00 target price on the stock. BMO Capital Markets initiated coverage on shares of Neptune Insurance in a research note on Monday, October 27th. They issued a market perform rating and a $25.00 price target for the company. Cowen began coverage on shares of Neptune Insurance in a research note on Monday, October 27th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Zacks Research raised shares of Neptune Insurance to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Finally, Raymond James Financial assumed coverage on Neptune Insurance in a research report on Monday, October 27th. They issued an outperform rating and a $30.00 price objective on the stock. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have issued a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $27.88.

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Neptune Insurance Trading Down 1.1%

NP opened at $24.60 on Thursday. The firm has a market capitalization of $3.40 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -15.00 and a beta of 1.46. The companys 50 day moving average price is $28.37 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $30.74. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.55, a current ratio of 2.01 and a quick ratio of 1.22. Neptune Insurance has a fifty-two week low of $22.30 and a fifty-two week high of $33.23.

Neptune Insurance (NYSE:NP  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 12th. The company reported $0.11 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.12 by ($0.01). The business had revenue of $44.37 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $42.58 million. Neptune Insurance had a negative net margin of 2.53% and a positive return on equity of 11.06%. Neptune Insurance has set its FY 2026 guidance at EPS.

Insider Transactions at Neptune Insurance

In related news, CEO Trevor R. Burgess purchased 50,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, October 2nd. The stock was bought at an average price of $20.00 per share, for a total transaction of $1,000,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 2,032,964 shares in the company, valued at approximately $40,659,280. The trade was a 2.52% increase in their position. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, CFO James Steiner bought 119,050 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, October 2nd. The stock was purchased at an average price of $20.00 per share, with a total value of $2,381,000.00. Following the acquisition, the chief financial officer directly owned 4,384,715 shares in the company, valued at approximately $87,694,300. The trade was a 2.79% increase in their position. Additional details regarding this purchase are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders bought a total of 174,050 shares of company stock valued at $3,481,000 in the last 90 days. Company insiders own 0.63% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

An institutional investor recently bought a new position in Neptune Insurance stock. Emerald Mutual Fund Advisers Trust bought a new position in shares of Neptune Insurance Holdings Inc. (NYSE:NP  Free Report) in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund bought 24,761 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $792,000. 93.37% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Neptune Insurance Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Our mission is to create a smarter, more resilient insurance platform powered by AI, data science, and technology, enabling insurers to deploy capacity with confidence and delivering instant access to coverage for policyholders and agents. Neptune is a leading, high-growth, highly profitable, data-driven managing general agent that is revolutionizing the way homeowners and businesses protect against the growing risks of flooding.

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Security Financial Services INC. boosted its position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO  Free Report) by 24.2% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 6,215 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,212 shares during the period. Security Financial Services INC.s holdings in Novo Nordisk A/S were worth $429,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Jennison Associates LLC increased its stake in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S by 0.3% in the second quarter. Jennison Associates LLC now owns 18,885,343 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,303,466,000 after buying an additional 63,341 shares in the last quarter. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC lifted its holdings in Novo Nordisk A/S by 301,443.6% during the 2nd quarter. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC now owns 10,005,216 shares of the companys stock valued at $690,560,000 after purchasing an additional 10,001,898 shares during the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. grew its stake in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S by 11.3% in the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 5,692,554 shares of the companys stock valued at $395,291,000 after acquiring an additional 576,900 shares in the last quarter. Sustainable Growth Advisers LP raised its position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S by 3.8% in the 1st quarter. Sustainable Growth Advisers LP now owns 5,543,246 shares of the companys stock valued at $384,923,000 after buying an additional 202,443 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nuveen LLC bought a new stake in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in the first quarter worth $370,272,000. 11.54% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Novo Nordisk A/S Trading Down 1.9%

Shares of Novo Nordisk A/S stock opened at $48.22 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52, a current ratio of 0.78 and a quick ratio of 0.56. The company has a market capitalization of $215.32 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.25, a P/E/G ratio of 2.33 and a beta of 0.65. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $54.55 and a 200 day moving average price of $61.04. Novo Nordisk A/S has a 1 year low of $45.05 and a 1 year high of $112.52.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Novo Nordisk A/S ( NYSE:NVO Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported $1.02 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.77 by $0.25. Novo Nordisk A/S had a net margin of 35.60% and a return on equity of 78.64%. The firm had revenue of $11.74 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.98 billion. Novo Nordisk A/S has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Novo Nordisk A/S will post 3.84 EPS for the current fiscal year.

A number of equities research analysts recently commented on the stock. Barclays reaffirmed an equal weight rating on shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in a report on Wednesday, July 30th. Zacks Research upgraded Novo Nordisk A/S from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, September 29th. Sanford C. Bernstein raised shares of Novo Nordisk A/S from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a research note on Tuesday, September 9th. TD Cowen dropped their price target on Novo Nordisk A/S from $105.00 to $70.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, August 19th. Finally, UBS Group cut Novo Nordisk A/S from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 5th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have assigned a Buy rating, nine have given a Hold rating and three have assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $59.20.

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Novo Nordisk A/S Profile

(Free Report)

Novo Nordisk A/S, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the research and development, manufacture, and distribution of pharmaceutical products in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, North America, and internationally. It operates in two segments, Diabetes and Obesity Care, and Rare Disease.

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Flaharty Asset Management LLC boosted its position in shares of iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:IWO  Free Report) by 3.8% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 47,387 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after purchasing an additional 1,744 shares during the period. iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF accounts for approximately 2.8% of Flaharty Asset Management LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 14th biggest position. Flaharty Asset Management LLC owned about 0.12% of iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF worth $13,546,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Yarbrough Capital LLC acquired a new stake in shares of iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF during the 2nd quarter valued at about $27,447,000. TimesSquare Capital Management LLC bought a new position in iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF during the second quarter valued at approximately $24,298,000. Barings LLC lifted its stake in iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF by 5.2% in the first 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 during the last quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp grew its position in iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF by 90.8% in the first quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 121,436 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $31,031,000 after acquiring an additional 57,778 shares in the last quarter. Finally, BNP Paribas Financial Markets grew its position in iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF by 24.0% in the first quarter. BNP Paribas Financial Markets now owns 249,244 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $63,689,000 after acquiring an additional 48,169 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 74.88% of the companys stock.

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iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF Trading Up 0.4%

iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF stock opened at $312.12 on Friday. iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF has a 1-year low of $219.19 and a 1-year high of $337.26. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $322.79 and its 200-day simple moving average is $297.94. The company has a market capitalization of $12.53 billion, a P/E ratio of 21.86 and a beta of 1.17.

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.

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K3 Business Technology Group plc (LON:KBT  Get Free Report) shares crossed below its 200-day moving average during trading on Friday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of GBX 59.25 and traded as low as GBX 37.55. K3 Business Technology Group shares last traded at GBX 40, with a volume of 1,167,285 shares.

K3 Business Technology Group Stock Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 8.64, a current ratio of 0.74 and a quick ratio of 0.94. The company has a market cap of 17.87 million, a PE ratio of -7.23 and a beta of 0.83. The business has a 50-day moving average of GBX 40 and a 200 day moving average of GBX 59.25.

K3 Business Technology Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

K3 Business Technology Group plc, together with its subsidiaries, provides computer software and consultancy services in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Ireland, rest of Europe, the Middle East, Asia, the United States, and internationally. It operates through K3 Products and Third-Party Solutions segments.

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Jardine Matheson Holdings Limited (LON:JAR  Get Free Report) shares passed above its fifty day moving average during trading on Friday . The stock has a fifty day moving average of GBX 62.63 and traded as high as GBX 67.56. Jardine Matheson shares last traded at GBX 67.56, with a volume of 200 shares trading hands.

Jardine Matheson Price Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 71.64, a current ratio of 1.15 and a quick ratio of 0.90. The companys 50 day simple moving average is GBX 62.63 and its 200 day simple moving average is GBX 59.11. The company has a market capitalization of 199.90 million, a PE ratio of 1.99 and a beta of 0.40.

About Jardine Matheson

(Get Free Report)

Jardine Matheson Holdings Limited, through its subsidiaries, operates in motor vehicles and related operations, property investment and development, food retailing, health and beauty, home furnishings, engineering and construction, and transportation businesses in China, Southeast Asia, the United Kingdom, and internationally.

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Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA raised its position in shares of Prologis, Inc. (NYSE:PLD  Free Report) by 1.6% in the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 16,506,899 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after purchasing an additional 253,338 shares during the quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA owned approximately 1.78% of Prologis worth $1,735,205,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its position in shares of Prologis by 0.7% in the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 121,339,410 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $13,564,533,000 after purchasing an additional 869,310 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in Prologis by 1.4% in the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 22,416,833 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $2,345,922,000 after buying an additional 310,333 shares during the period. Nuveen LLC purchased a new stake in Prologis in the 1st quarter worth $1,456,768,000. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. lifted its position in shares of Prologis by 0.9% in the first quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 10,495,932 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $1,173,340,000 after acquiring an additional 93,201 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD lifted its position in shares of Prologis by 13.0% in the first quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 9,965,037 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $1,113,994,000 after acquiring an additional 1,146,454 shares in the last quarter. 93.50% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Prologis

In related news, Director Cristina Gabriela Bita sold 1,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, September 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $111.00, for a total value of $111,000.00. Following the transaction, the director directly owned 9,829 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,091,019. This trade represents a 9.23% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CAO Lori A. Palazzolo sold 25,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $111.33, for a total value of $2,783,250.00. Following the sale, the chief accounting officer owned 414 shares of the companys stock, valued at $46,090.62. This represents a 98.37% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders sold 27,000 shares of company stock valued at $3,013,665 over the last quarter. Insiders own 0.57% of the companys stock.

Prologis Stock Performance

Shares of PLD stock opened at $122.71 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 0.64, a quick ratio of 0.65 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.62. The company has a market cap of $113.98 billion, a PE ratio of 35.78, a PEG ratio of 3.13 and a beta of 1.29. Prologis, Inc. has a 12-month low of $85.35 and a 12-month high of $127.50. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $119.14 and its 200-day simple moving average is $111.71.

Prologis (NYSE:PLD  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, October 15th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.49 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.44 by $0.05. Prologis had a net margin of 36.71% and a return on equity of 5.55%. The business had revenue of $2.21 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.03 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $1.43 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 8.6% compared to the same quarter last year. Prologis has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.780-5.810 EPS. Analysts expect that Prologis, Inc. will post 5.73 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Prologis Announces Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, September 30th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, September 16th were given a $1.01 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, September 16th. This represents a $4.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.3%. Prologiss payout ratio is currently 117.78%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts have recently issued reports on PLD shares. Industrial Alliance Securities set a $119.00 price objective on shares of Prologis in a research report on Monday, October 20th. UBS Group set a $133.00 price target on Prologis in a research note on Monday. Scotiabank lifted their price objective on Prologis from $127.00 to $133.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research note on Monday, November 10th. Bank of America upgraded Prologis from a neutral rating to a buy rating and increased their target price for the company from $118.00 to $130.00 in a research report on Tuesday, September 16th. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c+) rating on shares of Prologis in a research report on Thursday. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, ten have assigned a Buy rating and seven have given a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $125.39.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on PLD

About Prologis

(Free Report)

Prologis, Inc is the global leader in logistics real estate with a focus on high-barrier, high-growth markets. At March 31, 2024, the company owned or had investments in, on a wholly owned basis or through co-investment ventures, properties and development projects expected to total approximately 1.2 billion square feet (115 million square meters) in 19 countries.

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Opinicus Capital Inc. grew its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY  Free Report) by 14.4% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 19,327 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after purchasing an additional 2,426 shares during the period. Opinicus Capital Inc.s holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb were worth $895,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of BMY. Trifecta Capital Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in the second quarter valued at $25,000. REAP Financial Group LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 202.8% in the second quarter. REAP Financial Group LLC now owns 639 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $30,000 after buying an additional 428 shares in the last quarter. Accent Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in Bristol Myers Squibb during the first quarter valued at approximately $33,000. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC increased its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb by 66.0% during the 1st quarter. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC now owns 581 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $35,000 after acquiring an additional 231 shares during the period. Finally, GKV Capital Management Co. Inc. bought a new position in Bristol Myers Squibb in the 1st quarter valued at $36,000. 76.41% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insider Transactions at Bristol Myers Squibb

In other Bristol Myers Squibb news, EVP David V. Elkins sold 56,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, September 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $47.33, for a total value of $2,650,480.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president owned 167,379 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,922,048.07. The trade was a 25.07% 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. 0.09% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages recently issued reports on BMY. Morgan Stanley reissued a hold rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Thursday, July 31st. Sanford C. Bernstein reiterated a market perform rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research report on Tuesday, October 14th. Scotiabank assumed coverage on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Thursday. They issued a sector perform rating and a $45.00 price target for the company. Finally, Dbs Bank upgraded shares of Bristol Myers Squibb to a moderate buy rating in a research report on Thursday, October 2nd. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and fourteen have issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $54.58.

Check Out Our Latest Report on BMY

Bristol Myers Squibb Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:BMY opened at $46.67 on Friday. The companys fifty day moving average is $45.34 and its 200 day moving average is $46.70. Bristol Myers Squibb Company has a 52 week low of $42.52 and a 52 week high of $63.33. The stock has a market cap of $95.00 billion, a PE ratio of 18.82, a PEG ratio of 2.23 and a beta of 0.33. The company has a quick ratio of 1.11, a current ratio of 1.21 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.54.

Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.63 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.52 by $0.11. Bristol Myers Squibb had a return on equity of 80.04% and a net margin of 10.58%.The firm had revenue of $12.22 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.75 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $1.80 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 2.8% on a year-over-year basis. Bristol Myers Squibb has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.400-6.600 EPS. Research analysts anticipate that Bristol Myers Squibb Company will post 6.74 earnings per share for the current year.

Bristol Myers Squibb Dividend Announcement

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 3rd. Investors of record on Friday, October 3rd were issued a dividend of $0.62 per share. This represents a $2.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.3%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 3rd. Bristol Myers Squibbs dividend payout ratio is currently 83.78%.

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.

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Vise Technologies Inc. acquired a new stake in Portland General Electric Company (NYSE:POR  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund acquired 14,068 shares of the utilities providers stock, valued at approximately $572,000.

A number of other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of POR. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its position in shares of Portland General Electric by 4.7% during the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 12,472,333 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $556,266,000 after acquiring an additional 559,201 shares during the last quarter. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. boosted its position in shares of Portland General Electric by 22.8% during the 1st quarter. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. now owns 4,864,352 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $216,950,000 after purchasing an additional 904,692 shares during the period. ATLAS Infrastructure Partners UK Ltd. increased its holdings in Portland General Electric by 164.5% in the 1st quarter. ATLAS Infrastructure Partners UK Ltd. now owns 4,400,635 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $196,268,000 after purchasing an additional 2,736,811 shares during the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. raised its position in Portland General Electric by 14.6% in the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 2,878,528 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $128,382,000 after purchasing an additional 366,640 shares during the period. Finally, Invesco Ltd. lifted its stake in Portland General Electric by 3.7% during the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 2,282,513 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $101,800,000 after purchasing an additional 82,427 shares in the last quarter.

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Insider Activity

In other news, CEO Maria M. Pope sold 18,896 shares of Portland General Electric stock in a transaction on Wednesday, September 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $42.50, for a total transaction of $803,080.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 194,135 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,250,737.50. The trade was a 8.87% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.40% of the companys stock.

Portland General Electric Stock Performance

Shares of POR opened at $49.42 on Friday. Portland General Electric Company has a 1 year low of $39.54 and a 1 year high of $50.95. The stock has a market capitalization of $5.56 billion, a PE ratio of 18.24, a PEG ratio of 4.18 and a beta of 0.67. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.28, a quick ratio of 0.84 and a current ratio of 0.97. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $44.75 and a 200-day simple moving average of $42.72.

Portland General Electric (NYSE:POR  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The utilities provider reported $1.00 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.98 by $0.02. Portland General Electric had a net margin of 8.43% and a return on equity of 8.07%. The firm had revenue of $952.00 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $975.64 million. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $0.90 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 2.5% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, analysts predict that Portland General Electric Company will post 3.21 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Portland General Electric Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 15th. Stockholders of record on Monday, December 22nd will be issued a $0.525 dividend. This represents a $2.10 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.2%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 22nd. Portland General Electrics dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 76.36%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on POR shares. Mizuho set a $47.00 price objective on Portland General Electric in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Zacks Research raised Portland General Electric from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, August 18th. BTIG Research upgraded shares of Portland General Electric to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. Jefferies Financial Group raised their price objective on shares of Portland General Electric from $43.00 to $46.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, Barclays lifted their price objective on shares of Portland General Electric from $43.00 to $47.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have issued a Buy rating, nine have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Portland General Electric has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $46.83.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on POR

About Portland General Electric

(Free Report)

Portland General Electric Company, an integrated electric utility company, engages in the generation, wholesale purchase, transmission, distribution, and retail sale of electricity in the state of Oregon. It operates six thermal plants, three wind farms, and seven hydroelectric facilities. As of December 31, 2023, the company owned an electric transmission system consisting of 1,254 circuit miles, including 287 circuit miles of 500 kilovolt line, 413 circuit miles of 230 kilovolt line, and 554 miles of 115 kilovolt line; and served 934 thousand retail customers in 51 cities.

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KATHMANDU, Nov 15: Nepali Congress (NC) President Sher Bahadur Deuba returned home on Friday after completing his medical treatment in Singapore. He had flown there on October 27, accompanied by his wife, Arzu Rana Deuba.

Deuba and his wife were injured during the Gen Z protest on September 9, when protesters attacked them. After receiving initial treatment in Nepal, the couple made their first public appearance on October 14. Deuba later attended the partys Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting, after which he handed over his responsibilities to Vice President Purna Bahadur Khadka and left for Singapore for further treatment.

Related story NC Prez Deuba off to Singapore for regular health check-up

Meanwhile, the NC CWC has yet to decide whether to hold the partys general convention as scheduled or call a special convention, and whether it should take place before or after the upcoming elections. Leaders say the committee has been meeting daily but has failed to reach a conclusion due to differing proposals and internal disagreements.

With Deubas return, party leaders expect the leadership to arrive at a clear decision.
Vise Technologies Inc. acquired a new position in Fomento Economico Mexicano S.A.B. de C.V. (NYSE:FMX  Free Report) during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor acquired 4,811 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $495,000.

Other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd acquired a new stake in Fomento Economico Mexicano in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $29,000. Farther Finance Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Fomento Economico Mexicano by 41.4% in the second quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 369 shares of the companys stock valued at $38,000 after acquiring an additional 108 shares in the last quarter. Banque Cantonale Vaudoise acquired a new stake in Fomento Economico Mexicano in the first quarter worth approximately $51,000. Brooklyn Investment Group boosted its stake in Fomento Economico Mexicano by 112.4% during the 1st quarter. Brooklyn Investment Group now owns 722 shares of the companys stock valued at $70,000 after purchasing an additional 382 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Smartleaf Asset Management LLC boosted its stake in Fomento Economico Mexicano by 69.2% during the first quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC now owns 785 shares of the companys stock valued at $79,000 after buying an additional 321 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 61.00% of the companys stock.

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Fomento Economico Mexicano Price Performance

NYSE FMX opened at $93.90 on Friday. Fomento Economico Mexicano S.A.B. de C.V. has a fifty-two week low of $81.07 and a fifty-two week high of $108.74. The stocks 50-day moving average is $94.53 and its two-hundred day moving average is $96.89. The firm has a market cap of $33.60 billion, a P/E ratio of 37.86, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 5.54 and a beta of 0.70. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50, a current ratio of 1.10 and a quick ratio of 1.06.

Fomento Economico Mexicano Increases Dividend

Fomento Economico Mexicano ( NYSE:FMX Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 28th. The company reported $0.88 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.06 by ($0.18). The company had revenue of $11.71 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $215.60 billion. Fomento Economico Mexicano had a net margin of 2.09% and a return on equity of 5.01%. On average, analysts anticipate that Fomento Economico Mexicano S.A.B. de C.V. will post 5.32 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 27th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, October 16th were given a dividend of $1.9982 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, October 16th. This represents a $7.99 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 8.5%. This is a positive change from Fomento Economico Mexicanos previous quarterly dividend of $1.36. Fomento Economico Mexicanos dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 89.92%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several analysts recently commented on FMX shares. UBS Group raised shares of Fomento Economico Mexicano from a neutral rating to a buy rating and cut their target price for the company from $115.00 to $111.00 in a research note on Friday, September 19th. Citigroup upgraded shares of Fomento Economico Mexicano from a neutral rating to a buy rating and upped their price target for the company from $93.00 to $97.00 in a research report on Tuesday, September 9th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c-) rating on shares of Fomento Economico Mexicano in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price target on shares of Fomento Economico Mexicano from $96.00 to $102.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, October 20th. Finally, Zacks Research upgraded Fomento Economico Mexicano from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, October 28th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $101.63.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on Fomento Economico Mexicano

About Fomento Economico Mexicano

(Free Report)

Fomento Economico Mexicano, SAB. de C.V., through its subsidiaries, operates as a bottler of Coca-Cola trademark beverages. The company produces, markets, and distributes Coca-Cola trademark beverages in Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.

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Invesco Bond Fund (NYSE:VBF  Get Free Report) announced a monthly dividend on Monday, November 3rd. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be paid a dividend of 0.07 per share by the financial services provider on Friday, November 28th. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.4%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 17th.

Invesco Bond Fund Trading Down 0.2%

VBF stock opened at $15.58 on Friday. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $15.73 and its 200 day moving average price is $15.54. Invesco Bond Fund has a 12-month low of $14.33 and a 12-month high of $16.09.

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Invesco Bond Fund Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

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Invesco Bond Fund is a close ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Invesco Ltd. The fund is co-managed by Invesco Advisers, Inc, INVESCO Asset Management (Japan) Limited, INVESCO Asset Management Deutschland GmbH, INVESCO Asset Management Limited, Invesco Hong Kong Limited, INVESCO Senior Secured Management, Inc, and Invesco Canada Ltd.

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Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA reduced its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS  Free Report) by 13.7% during the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 1,604,822 shares of the investment management companys stock after selling 254,178 shares during the quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA owned 0.53% of The Goldman Sachs Group worth $1,135,813,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of GS. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC raised its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 617,504.5% in the 2nd quarter. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC now owns 29,058,291 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $20,566,005,000 after acquiring an additional 29,053,586 shares in the last quarter. Nuveen LLC bought a new position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in the 1st quarter worth about $897,185,000. Ninety One UK Ltd bought a new position in The Goldman Sachs Group in the 2nd quarter worth about $408,780,000. AGF Management Ltd. boosted its stake in The Goldman Sachs Group by 2,429.6% during the 2nd quarter. AGF Management Ltd. now owns 485,375 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $343,524,000 after purchasing an additional 466,187 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Amundi boosted its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 13.6% during the first quarter. Amundi now owns 1,891,260 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $967,193,000 after buying an additional 225,993 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 71.21% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several brokerages have recently weighed in on GS. Dbs Bank increased their price objective on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $800.00 to $890.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday. Morgan Stanley lowered their price objective on The Goldman Sachs Group from $854.00 to $828.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, October 15th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reissued a neutral rating and issued a $750.00 target price (up previously from $625.00) on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Royal Bank Of Canada reaffirmed a neutral rating and issued a $843.00 target price on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. Finally, UBS Group upped their price objective on The Goldman Sachs Group from $762.00 to $805.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, October 7th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, sixteen have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, The Goldman Sachs Group presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $786.00.

The Goldman Sachs Group Stock Performance

Shares of GS stock opened at $790.56 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $237.11 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.06, a PEG ratio of 1.43 and a beta of 1.41. The company has a quick ratio of 0.67, a current ratio of 1.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.23. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 52-week low of $439.38 and a 52-week high of $841.28. The companys 50 day moving average is $785.07 and its 200 day moving average is $709.46.

The Goldman Sachs Group (NYSE:GS  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 14th. The investment management company reported $12.25 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $10.27 by $1.98. The business had revenue of $15.18 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $13.68 billion. The Goldman Sachs Group had a net margin of 13.18% and a return on equity of 14.79%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 19.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $8.40 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 47.12 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The Goldman Sachs Group Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 30th. Investors of record on Tuesday, December 2nd will be issued a dividend of $4.00 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, December 2nd. This represents a $16.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.0%. The Goldman Sachs Groups payout ratio is 32.50%.

Insider Transactions at The Goldman Sachs Group

In other news, COO John E. Waldron sold 9,244 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $750.11, for a total value of $6,934,016.84. Following the sale, the chief operating officer owned 115,268 shares in the company, valued at $86,463,679.48. This represents a 7.42% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 0.55% of the companys stock.

The Goldman Sachs Group Profile

(Free Report)

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc, a financial institution, provides a range of financial services for corporations, financial institutions, governments, and individuals worldwide. It operates through Global Banking & Markets, Asset & Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions segments. The Global Banking & Markets segment provides financial advisory services, including strategic advisory assignments related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, corporate defense activities, restructurings, and spin-offs; and relationship lending, and acquisition financing, as well as secured lending, through structured credit and asset-backed lending and involved in financing under securities to resale agreements.

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Intech Investment Management LLC lessened its holdings in shares of Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST  Free Report) by 44.0% in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 112,103 shares of the companys stock after selling 88,056 shares during the quarter. Intech Investment Management LLCs holdings in Vistra were worth $21,727,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Thoroughbred Financial Services LLC acquired a new position in Vistra during the 2nd quarter valued at about $1,692,000. Cetera Investment Advisers boosted its position in shares of Vistra by 12.4% during the second quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 193,941 shares of the companys stock valued at $37,588,000 after buying an additional 21,416 shares during the last quarter. Creative Planning grew its holdings in Vistra by 47.0% during the second quarter. Creative Planning now owns 62,513 shares of the companys stock worth $12,115,000 after buying an additional 19,975 shares in the last quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS raised its position in Vistra by 45.7% in the 2nd quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 113,373 shares of the companys stock valued at $21,973,000 after buying an additional 35,568 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Foundations Investment Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Vistra by 103.7% during the 2nd quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC now owns 5,496 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,065,000 after acquiring an additional 2,798 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 90.88% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several analysts have recently commented on VST shares. Weiss Ratings downgraded shares of Vistra from a buy (b-) rating to a hold (c) rating in a report on Thursday. Daiwa Capital Markets raised shares of Vistra from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $250.00 price objective for the company in a research report on Wednesday, September 17th. Wells Fargo & Company started coverage on shares of Vistra in a research note on Monday, October 27th. They issued an overweight rating and a $238.00 price objective for the company. Daiwa America upgraded Vistra from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, September 17th. Finally, Melius began coverage on Vistra in a research report on Wednesday, August 20th. They issued a buy rating and a $295.00 price objective on the stock. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have given a Buy rating and three have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Buy and an average target price of $234.21.

Insider Activity at Vistra

In related news, CEO James A. Burke sold 21,935 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, November 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $186.53, for a total value of $4,091,535.55. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 271,074 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $50,563,433.22. This trade represents a 7.49% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 745,845 shares of company stock worth $152,178,104. Corporate insiders own 1.42% of the companys stock.

Vistra Stock Performance

Shares of VST opened at $174.37 on Friday. Vistra Corp. has a 1 year low of $90.51 and a 1 year high of $219.82. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.74, a current ratio of 0.99 and a quick ratio of 0.80. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $198.04 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $186.22. The firm has a market cap of $59.08 billion, a PE ratio of 62.95, a PEG ratio of 2.14 and a beta of 1.30.

Vistra (NYSE:VST  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, November 7th. The company reported $1.75 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.78 by ($0.03). Vistra had a return on equity of 64.04% and a net margin of 6.70%.The firm had revenue of $4.97 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.60 billion. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Vistra Corp. will post 7 EPS for the current year.

Vistra Increases Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Stockholders of record on Monday, December 22nd will be paid a $0.227 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 22nd. This is a positive change from Vistras previous quarterly dividend of $0.23. This represents a $0.91 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.5%. Vistras dividend payout ratio is 32.49%.

About Vistra

(Free Report)

Vistra Corp., together with its subsidiaries, operates as an integrated retail electricity and power generation company. The company operates through six segments: Retail, Texas, East, West, Sunset, and Asset Closure. It retails electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial, and industrial customers across states in the United States and the District of Columbia.

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WealthShield Partners LLC lessened its position in shares of Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (NYSE:FIS  Free Report) by 31.6% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 26,316 shares of the information technology services providers stock after selling 12,156 shares during the period. WealthShield Partners LLCs holdings in Fidelity National Information Services were worth $2,142,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Baupost Group LLC MA acquired a new stake in Fidelity National Information Services during the 1st quarter valued at $260,853,000. Nuveen LLC bought a new position in Fidelity National Information Services during the first quarter worth $187,514,000. Invesco Ltd. boosted its holdings in Fidelity National Information Services by 22.9% in the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 9,304,011 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $694,824,000 after acquiring an additional 1,730,878 shares in the last quarter. Boston Partners increased its stake in Fidelity National Information Services by 10.3% during the 2nd quarter. Boston Partners now owns 11,801,151 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $956,986,000 after purchasing an additional 1,103,121 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Hotchkis & Wiley Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in Fidelity National Information Services by 17.4% during the 1st quarter. Hotchkis & Wiley Capital Management LLC now owns 6,666,499 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $497,854,000 after purchasing an additional 986,646 shares during the last quarter. 96.23% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities analysts recently weighed in on FIS shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut their price target on shares of Fidelity National Information Services from $85.00 to $80.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, November 6th. Stephens lowered their price objective on Fidelity National Information Services from $100.00 to $90.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. Weiss Ratings reissued a sell (d) rating on shares of Fidelity National Information Services in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods cut their price target on Fidelity National Information Services from $88.00 to $85.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, October 1st. Finally, Citigroup upgraded Fidelity National Information Services to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, October 23rd. Twelve analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, seven have issued a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $85.53.

Fidelity National Information Services Price Performance

Shares of NYSE FIS opened at $64.16 on Friday. The company has a 50 day moving average of $66.00 and a 200 day moving average of $73.45. Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. has a twelve month low of $59.51 and a twelve month high of $88.63. The firm has a market cap of $33.22 billion, a P/E ratio of 356.45 and a beta of 1.01. The company has a quick ratio of 0.59, a current ratio of 0.59 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.63.

Fidelity National Information Services (NYSE:FIS  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The information technology services provider reported $1.51 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.48 by $0.03. Fidelity National Information Services had a net margin of 1.09% and a return on equity of 18.73%. The business had revenue of $2.72 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.65 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $1.40 EPS. The firms revenue was up 5.7% on a year-over-year basis. Fidelity National Information Services has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.740-5.780 EPS. As a group, research analysts expect that Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. will post 5.74 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Fidelity National Information Services Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 23rd. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, December 9th will be paid a $0.40 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, December 9th. This represents a $1.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.5%. Fidelity National Information Servicess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 592.59%.

Insider Transactions at Fidelity National Information Services

In other news, Director Jeffrey A. Goldstein purchased 889 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, October 15th. The shares were acquired at an average price of $67.66 per share, with a total value of $60,149.74. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director directly owned 13,588 shares of the companys stock, valued at $919,364.08. This trade represents a 7.00% increase in their ownership of the stock. The acquisition was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 0.21% of the companys stock.

Fidelity National Information Services Company Profile

(Free Report)

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc engages in the provision of financial services technology solutions for financial institutions, businesses, and developers worldwide. It operates through Banking Solutions, Capital Market Solutions, and Corporate and Other segments. The company provides core processing and ancillary applications; mobile and online banking; fraud, risk management, and compliance; card and retail payment; electronic funds transfer and network; wealth and retirement; and item processing and output solutions.

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WealthShield Partners LLC grew its position in Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG  Free Report) by 20.7% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 73,140 shares of the restaurant operators stock after purchasing an additional 12,560 shares during the quarter. WealthShield Partners LLCs holdings in Chipotle Mexican Grill were worth $4,107,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the company. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. grew its position in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill by 5.8% in the first quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 8,979,637 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $450,868,000 after purchasing an additional 491,002 shares in the last quarter. Corient IA LLC bought a new position in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill in the first quarter worth approximately $753,000. Advisors Asset Management Inc. grew its stake in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 32.4% in the 1st quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. now owns 75,368 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $3,784,000 after buying an additional 18,458 shares in the last quarter. Hilltop National Bank bought a new stake in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill during the 2nd quarter worth $2,579,000. Finally, Banco Santander S.A. grew its position in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 47.6% in the first quarter. Banco Santander S.A. now owns 31,764 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $1,595,000 after acquiring an additional 10,246 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 91.30% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages have recently commented on CMG. BMO Capital Markets reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Evercore ISI decreased their price objective on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $53.00 to $45.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. KeyCorp decreased their target price on Chipotle Mexican Grill from $52.00 to $45.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Thursday, October 30th. Piper Sandler raised Chipotle Mexican Grill from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and decreased their target price for the stock from $53.00 to $50.00 in a research report on Tuesday, August 12th. Finally, Rothschild Redb upgraded Chipotle Mexican Grill from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 3rd. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twenty-two have assigned a Buy rating, eleven have issued a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Chipotle Mexican Grill has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $49.81.

Chipotle Mexican Grill Stock Up 0.5%

CMG stock opened at $31.55 on Friday. The business has a 50 day moving average of $38.17 and a 200 day moving average of $45.44. The firm has a market cap of $41.71 billion, a PE ratio of 27.92, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.65 and a beta of 0.98. Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. has a twelve month low of $29.75 and a twelve month high of $66.74.

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:CMG  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The restaurant operator reported $0.29 EPS for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $0.29. The firm had revenue of $3 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.06 billion. Chipotle Mexican Grill had a return on equity of 44.32% and a net margin of 13.04%.The companys quarterly revenue was up 7.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $0.27 earnings per share. On average, research analysts expect that Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. will post 1.29 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Chipotle Mexican Grill Company Profile

(Free Report)

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurants. It sells food and beverages through offering burritos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, tacos, and salads. The company also provides delivery and related services its app and website. It has operations in the United States, Canada, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

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Bayerische Motoren Werke (OTCMKTS:BAMXF  Get Free Report) and Dongfeng Motor Group (OTCMKTS:DNFGY  Get Free Report) are both auto/tires/trucks companies, but which is the better stock? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their dividends, institutional ownership, valuation, analyst recommendations, risk, earnings and profitability.

Volatility & Risk

Bayerische Motoren Werke has a beta of 0.81, indicating that its share price is 19% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Dongfeng Motor Group has a beta of 0.26, indicating that its share price is 74% less volatile than the S&P 500.

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Profitability

This table compares Bayerische Motoren Werke and Dongfeng Motor Groups net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Bayerische Motoren Werke 5.14% 7.58% 2.72% Dongfeng Motor Group N/A N/A N/A

Analyst Recommendations

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Bayerische Motoren Werke 0 3 0 1 2.50 Dongfeng Motor Group 0 0 0 1 4.00

Earnings and Valuation

This is a summary of recent ratings for Bayerische Motoren Werke and Dongfeng Motor Group, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

This table compares Bayerische Motoren Werke and Dongfeng Motor Groups top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Bayerische Motoren Werke $154.09 billion 0.38 $7.89 billion $12.57 8.11 Dongfeng Motor Group $14.77 billion 0.66 $8.07 million N/A N/A

Bayerische Motoren Werke has higher revenue and earnings than Dongfeng Motor Group.

Summary

Bayerische Motoren Werke beats Dongfeng Motor Group on 6 of the 8 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Bayerische Motoren Werke

(Get Free Report)

Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft engages in the development, manufacture, and sale of automobiles and motorcycles, and spare parts and accessories worldwide. It operates through Automotive, Motorcycles, and Financial Services segments. The Automotive segment engages in the development, manufacture, assembling, and sale of automobiles, spare parts, accessories, and mobility services under the BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce brands. The Motorcycles segment develops, manufactures, assembles, and sells motorcycles and scooters under the BMW Motorrad brand, as well as spare parts and accessories. The Financial Services segment is involved in the automobile and motorcycle leasing, credit financing, retail and dealership financing, multi-brand fleet, customer deposit, and insurance activities; and the provision of fleet management services under the Alphabet brand. The company sells its products through independent dealerships. Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft was founded in 1916 and is headquartered in Munich, Germany.

About Dongfeng Motor Group

(Get Free Report)

Dongfeng Motor Group Company Limited engages in the research, development, manufacture, and sale of commercial and passenger vehicles, engines, and other auto parts in the People's Republic of China. It operates in four segments: Commercial Vehicles, Passenger Vehicles, Financing Service, and Corporate and Others. The company's commercial vehicles include light, medium, and heavy-duty trucks, as well as pickup trucks and buses; passenger vehicles comprise sedans, MPVs, and SUVs; electric and new energy vehicles, and special commercial vehicles; and other automobile related products, as well as automotive parts and components, and automobile equipment. It also provides investment and advisory, car maintenance and repair, insurance agency, automotive technology development and system integration, and logistics, as well as financing and loan services. In addition, it is involved in trading of used car. The company is based in Wuhan, the People's Republic of China. Dongfeng Motor Group Company Limited operates as a subsidiary of Dongfeng Motor Corporation.

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OmniStar Financial Group Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO  Free Report) by 6.5% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 31,112 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,909 shares during the period. Altria Group makes up 1.4% of OmniStar Financial Group Inc.s portfolio, making the stock its 19th biggest holding. OmniStar Financial Group Inc.s holdings in Altria Group were worth $1,824,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the business. Mattson Financial Services LLC bought a new stake in Altria Group during the first quarter worth approximately $25,000. Global X Japan Co. Ltd. acquired a new stake in shares of Altria Group during the 2nd quarter valued at $25,000. Carderock Capital Management Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Altria Group during the 2nd quarter valued at $26,000. Compass Financial Services Inc boosted its stake in shares of Altria Group by 64.4% during the 1st quarter. Compass Financial Services Inc now owns 717 shares of the companys stock worth $43,000 after acquiring an additional 281 shares in the last quarter. Finally, GKV Capital Management Co. Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Altria Group in the 1st quarter worth $44,000. 57.41% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Altria Group Price Performance

NYSE:MO opened at $58.15 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $97.62 billion, a PE ratio of 11.25, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.45 and a beta of 0.51. Altria Group, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $50.08 and a fifty-two week high of $68.60. The stocks 50-day moving average is $63.28 and its two-hundred day moving average is $61.82.

Altria Group ( NYSE:MO Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $1.45 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.44 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $5.25 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.31 billion. Altria Group had a net margin of 37.24% and a negative return on equity of 295.26%. The firms revenue was down 3.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $1.38 earnings per share. Altria Group has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.370-5.45 EPS. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Altria Group, Inc. will post 5.32 earnings per share for the current year.

Altria Group declared that its board has authorized a share buyback program on Thursday, October 30th that authorizes the company to repurchase $2.00 billion in outstanding shares. This repurchase authorization authorizes the company to purchase up to 1.9% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares repurchase programs are typically a sign that the companys management believes its stock is undervalued.

Altria Group Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 10th. Shareholders of record on Monday, September 15th were paid a dividend of $1.06 per share. This is an increase from Altria Groups previous quarterly dividend of $1.02. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, September 15th. This represents a $4.24 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 7.3%. Altria Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 80.92%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities research analysts have recently commented on the company. Stifel Nicolaus set a $72.00 target price on Altria Group in a report on Thursday, August 21st. Barclays upped their price objective on shares of Altria Group from $49.00 to $57.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 6th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Altria Group in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Bank of America boosted their price target on shares of Altria Group from $64.00 to $72.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, August 22nd. Finally, UBS Group reduced their price target on shares of Altria Group from $68.00 to $61.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Friday, October 31st. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have assigned a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $62.33.

Check Out Our Latest Report on Altria Group

Altria Group Profile

(Free Report)

Altria Group, Inc, through its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells smokeable and oral tobacco products in the United States. The company offers cigarettes primarily under the Marlboro brand; large cigars and pipe tobacco under the Black & Mild brand; moist smokeless tobacco and snus products under the Copenhagen, Skoal, Red Seal, and Husky brands; oral nicotine pouches under the on! brand; and e-vapor products under the NJOY ACE brand.

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First Farmers and Merchants Co. (OTCMKTS:FFMH  Get Free Report) shares crossed above its fifty day moving average during trading on Friday . The stock has a fifty day moving average of $44.96 and traded as high as $47.00. First Farmers and Merchants shares last traded at $46.50, with a volume of 200 shares traded.

First Farmers and Merchants Price Performance

The company has a 50 day moving average of $44.96 and a 200 day moving average of $43.05.

About First Farmers and Merchants

(Get Free Report)

First Farmers and Merchants Corporation operates as the bank holding company for First Farmers and Merchants Bank that provides various banking and financial services in Middle Tennessee and Northern Alabama. The company's deposit products include personal and business checking and savings, and individual retirement and investment accounts, as well as certificates of deposit.

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Jeronimo Martins SGPS SA (OTCMKTS:JRONY  Get Free Report) passed above its fifty day moving average during trading on Friday . The stock has a fifty day moving average of $49.22 and traded as high as $50.8020. Jeronimo Martins SGPS shares last traded at $50.61, with a volume of 2,628 shares traded.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Separately, Kepler Capital Markets upgraded shares of Jeronimo Martins SGPS from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, November 5th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy.

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View Our Latest Report on JRONY

Jeronimo Martins SGPS Stock Performance

The firms 50 day moving average is $49.22 and its 200-day moving average is $49.68. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14, a quick ratio of 0.31 and a current ratio of 0.57. The firm has a market cap of $15.92 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.39, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.46 and a beta of 0.88.

Jeronimo Martins SGPS (OTCMKTS:JRONY  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The company reported $0.79 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.77 by $0.02. Jeronimo Martins SGPS had a net margin of 1.83% and a return on equity of 21.70%. The firm had revenue of $10.66 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $10.61 billion. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Jeronimo Martins SGPS SA will post 2.13 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About Jeronimo Martins SGPS

(Get Free Report)

Jeronimo Martins, SGPS, SA operates in the food distribution and specialized retail sectors in Portugal, Poland, and Colombia. The company operates through Portugal Retail; Portugal Cash & Carry; Poland Retail; Colombia Retail; and Others, Eliminations and Adjustments segments. It operates food stores under the Biedronka name; and a chain of health and beauty stores under the Hebe banner in Poland, as well as food stores under the Ara name in Colombia.

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KATHMANDU, Nov 15: Over 15 percent of the industrialists and traders have been blacklisted on charges of banking offenses mainly related to cases of cheque bounce.

According to Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), more than 150,000 businesspersons have been facing the case of financial offenses out of around 1 million businesses operating in the country.

Speaking at a program on Friday, NRB Governor Biswo Nath Poudel termed the number of soaring cases of blacklisting an unusual.

Related story Revised interest rate corridor system introduced

Of late, many entrepreneurs have been struggling to pay back banks loans, while they have been facing the check bounce cases due to ongoing economic slowdown. The impacts of Gen Z movement and violence have further worsened the situation.

NRB Governor Poudel said the criminalization of individuals in cheque bounce has led to the cases of blacklisting. According to him, the NRB has started discussion to review the provision of loan loss provisions that have created pressure on banks to blacklist individuals amid growing cases of non-payment of bank loans.

As per the unaudited financial reports unveiled by 20 commercial banks, their average NPL has reached 4.86 percent, up from 4.04 percent a year ago. As per the NRB rules, banks and financial institutions (BFIs) have to maintain provision ranging from 1-100 percent of amounts in outstanding loans.

The more a borrower delays in repaying the loan, the larger the amount the banks have to allocate in provisioning, which has created pressure on them to recover outstanding loans.

Poudel said the NRB is ready to implement policies that suit the country in the present context. The central bank is ready to be flexible as far as possible to address the ongoing odd situation that the countrys financial sector has been facing, said Poudel, stressing on the need for utilizing loanable funds in rural areas.
Paragon Capital Management LLC trimmed its stake in shares of McDonalds Corporation (NYSE:MCD  Free Report) by 1.7% during the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 25,036 shares of the fast-food giants stock after selling 442 shares during the period. McDonalds makes up about 3.8% of Paragon Capital Management LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 7th biggest position. Paragon Capital Management LLCs holdings in McDonalds were worth $7,315,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the stock. First American Trust FSB boosted its position in shares of McDonalds by 55.9% in the 1st quarter. First American Trust FSB now owns 36,917 shares of the fast-food giants stock worth $11,532,000 after purchasing an additional 13,234 shares during the last quarter. Banque Transatlantique SA increased its holdings in McDonalds by 58.0% in the first quarter. Banque Transatlantique SA now owns 248,826 shares of the fast-food giants stock valued at $71,829,000 after purchasing an additional 91,313 shares during the last quarter. Hamilton Capital LLC lifted its stake in McDonalds by 35.2% in the first quarter. Hamilton Capital LLC now owns 3,145 shares of the fast-food giants stock valued at $982,000 after buying an additional 819 shares during the period. Welch Group LLC boosted its holdings in McDonalds by 1.1% during the second quarter. Welch Group LLC now owns 206,004 shares of the fast-food giants stock worth $60,188,000 after buying an additional 2,180 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Banque Cantonale Vaudoise bought a new position in McDonalds during the first quarter worth about $8,444,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 70.29% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of analysts recently weighed in on MCD shares. Morgan Stanley set a $335.00 price target on shares of McDonalds in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Citigroup cut their target price on shares of McDonalds from $381.00 to $375.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. BTIG Research reissued a neutral rating on shares of McDonalds in a research report on Friday, October 24th. Mizuho upgraded shares of McDonalds to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 28th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company raised their price objective on McDonalds from $340.00 to $345.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, November 6th. Eleven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, fifteen have given a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, McDonalds has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $323.91.

McDonalds Trading Down 0.3%

MCD opened at $306.74 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $218.45 billion, a P/E ratio of 26.28, a P/E/G ratio of 3.23 and a beta of 0.50. McDonalds Corporation has a 12 month low of $276.53 and a 12 month high of $326.32. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $303.37 and its 200 day simple moving average is $304.71.

McDonalds (NYSE:MCD  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The fast-food giant reported $3.22 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $3.33 by ($0.11). The firm had revenue of $7.08 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.10 billion. McDonalds had a net margin of 32.21% and a negative return on equity of 225.52%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 3.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $3.23 EPS. On average, equities research analysts predict that McDonalds Corporation will post 12.25 EPS for the current fiscal year.

McDonalds Increases Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 15th. Shareholders of record on Monday, December 1st will be paid a $1.86 dividend. This represents a $7.44 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.4%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 1st. This is a positive change from McDonaldss previous quarterly dividend of $1.77. McDonaldss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 63.48%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, EVP Manuel Jm Steijaert sold 13,134 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $300.42, for a total transaction of $3,945,716.28. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 4,606 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,383,734.52. This trade represents a 74.04% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, CMO Edith Morgan Flatley sold 1,000 shares of McDonalds stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $315.00, for a total transaction of $315,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief marketing officer owned 6,858 shares in the company, valued at $2,160,270. This trade represents a 12.73% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders sold a total of 15,134 shares of company stock valued at $4,570,716 in the last quarter. 0.25% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

About McDonalds

(Free Report)

McDonalds Corp. engages in the operation and franchising of restaurants. It operates through the following segments: U.S., International Operated Markets, and International Developmental Licensed Markets and Corporate. The U.S. segment focuses its operations on the United States. The International Operated Markets segment consists of operations and the franchising of restaurants in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and the U.K.

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Woodley Farra Manion Portfolio Management Inc. trimmed its position in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG  Free Report) by 1.3% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 270,941 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 3,549 shares during the period. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. accounts for 4.1% of Woodley Farra Manion Portfolio Management Inc.s investment portfolio, making the stock its 6th biggest position. Woodley Farra Manion Portfolio Management Inc. owned about 0.11% of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. worth $86,734,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its stake in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 2.5% during the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 30,411,264 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $10,499,185,000 after buying an additional 739,130 shares during the period. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised its holdings in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 38.3% in the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 17,372,745 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $5,997,767,000 after acquiring an additional 4,815,007 shares in the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP grew its holdings in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 4.9% during the first quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 2,959,673 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,021,798,000 after purchasing an additional 137,354 shares in the last quarter. WCM Investment Management LLC increased its position in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 5.5% in the second quarter. WCM Investment Management LLC now owns 2,464,662 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $783,097,000 after purchasing an additional 128,071 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. raised its stake in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 4.2% in the second quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 2,381,835 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $762,473,000 after purchasing an additional 94,940 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 85.53% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts have commented on AJG shares. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods cut their price target on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $315.00 to $275.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Evercore ISI cut their target price on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $370.00 to $353.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Friday, October 31st. Wall Street Zen downgraded Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report on Saturday, November 1st. UBS Group upped their price objective on Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $322.00 to $329.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Friday, September 19th. Finally, Cowen reissued a buy rating on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. in a report on Friday, October 31st. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have issued a Buy rating and eight have given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $323.64.

Insider Activity

In other Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. news, VP Michael Robert Pesch purchased 4,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 3rd. The stock was bought at an average cost of $247.12 per share, with a total value of $988,480.00. Following the transaction, the vice president directly owned 41,849 shares in the company, valued at approximately $10,341,724.88. The trade was a 10.57% increase in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CFO Douglas K. Howell sold 8,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, September 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $299.54, for a total transaction of $2,396,320.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer directly owned 100,777 shares of the companys stock, valued at $30,186,742.58. This represents a 7.35% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders sold a total of 29,855 shares of company stock worth $8,916,928 in the last quarter. 1.60% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Stock Up 0.7%

AJG opened at $258.53 on Friday. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has a 12 month low of $239.47 and a 12 month high of $351.23. The company has a current ratio of 1.36, a quick ratio of 1.36 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $284.84 and its 200-day moving average price is $304.86. The company has a market cap of $66.39 billion, a P/E ratio of 36.72 and a beta of 0.71.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The financial services provider reported $2.32 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.51 by ($0.19). The firm had revenue of $3.33 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.34 billion. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. had a return on equity of 13.17% and a net margin of 14.54%.The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 20.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $2.26 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts expect that Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. will post 11.54 EPS for the current year.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 19th. Shareholders of record on Friday, December 5th will be issued a dividend of $0.65 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 5th. This represents a $2.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.0%. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.s dividend payout ratio is 38.86%.

About Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

(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.

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Fusion Capital LLC purchased a new position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor purchased 353 shares of the investment management companys stock, valued at approximately $250,000.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the stock. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC raised its holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group by 617,504.5% in the second quarter. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC now owns 29,058,291 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $20,566,005,000 after acquiring an additional 29,053,586 shares in the last quarter. Nuveen LLC purchased a new stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $897,185,000. Ninety One UK Ltd acquired a new stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in the 2nd quarter valued at $408,780,000. AGF Management Ltd. lifted its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 2,429.6% during the 2nd quarter. AGF Management Ltd. now owns 485,375 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $343,524,000 after purchasing an additional 466,187 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Amundi grew its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 13.6% during the first quarter. Amundi now owns 1,891,260 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $967,193,000 after purchasing an additional 225,993 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 71.21% of the companys stock.

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The Goldman Sachs Group Price Performance

Shares of NYSE GS opened at $790.56 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $237.11 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.06, a P/E/G ratio of 1.43 and a beta of 1.41. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a twelve month low of $439.38 and a twelve month high of $841.28. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $785.07 and a two-hundred day moving average of $709.46. The company has a current ratio of 1.11, a quick ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.23.

The Goldman Sachs Group Dividend Announcement

The Goldman Sachs Group ( NYSE:GS Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, October 14th. The investment management company reported $12.25 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $10.27 by $1.98. The Goldman Sachs Group had a net margin of 13.18% and a return on equity of 14.79%. The business had revenue of $15.18 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $13.68 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $8.40 EPS. The companys quarterly revenue was up 19.5% on a year-over-year basis. On average, research analysts forecast that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 47.12 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 30th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, December 2nd will be issued a $4.00 dividend. This represents a $16.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.0%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, December 2nd. The Goldman Sachs Groups dividend payout ratio is presently 32.50%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of analysts have weighed in on the company. BNP Paribas Exane raised their price target on The Goldman Sachs Group from $685.00 to $775.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Evercore ISI raised their target price on The Goldman Sachs Group from $752.00 to $830.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 30th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods upped their price target on The Goldman Sachs Group from $850.00 to $870.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a report on Friday, October 17th. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price objective on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $785.00 to $855.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, September 16th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada restated a neutral rating and issued a $843.00 target price on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, sixteen have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, The Goldman Sachs Group presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $786.00.

View Our Latest Report on The Goldman Sachs Group

Insider Activity at The Goldman Sachs Group

In other news, COO John E. Waldron sold 9,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, August 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $750.51, for a total transaction of $6,754,590.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer owned 106,268 shares in the company, valued at approximately $79,755,196.68. This represents a 7.81% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Insiders own 0.55% of the companys stock.

The Goldman Sachs Group Profile

(Free Report)

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc, a financial institution, provides a range of financial services for corporations, financial institutions, governments, and individuals worldwide. It operates through Global Banking & Markets, Asset & Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions segments. The Global Banking & Markets segment provides financial advisory services, including strategic advisory assignments related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, corporate defense activities, restructurings, and spin-offs; and relationship lending, and acquisition financing, as well as secured lending, through structured credit and asset-backed lending and involved in financing under securities to resale agreements.

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Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras SA (NYSE:EBR  Get Free Report) announced a special dividend on Thursday, November 6th. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be given a dividend of 0.3525 per share by the utilities provider on Monday, December 29th. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 17th.

Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras has decreased its dividend payment by an average of 0.0%per year over the last three years. Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras has a dividend payout ratio of 71.1% meaning its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Equities analysts expect Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras to earn $0.15 per share next year, which means the company may not be able to cover its $0.64 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 426.7%.

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Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras Stock Performance

Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras has a fifty-two week low of $5.45 and a fifty-two week high of $11.27. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $9.86 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $8.31. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50, a current ratio of 1.86 and a quick ratio of 1.85. The company has a market capitalization of $24.97 billion, a PE ratio of 21.34 and a beta of 0.62.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras

Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras Company Profile

Large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Schonfeld Strategic Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras during the 3rd quarter valued at $1,093,000. Creative Planning boosted its position in shares of Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras by 2.3% in the 3rd quarter. Creative Planning now owns 63,574 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $631,000 after purchasing an additional 1,403 shares in the last quarter. Amundi increased its holdings in shares of Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras by 46.7% during the third quarter. Amundi now owns 512,758 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $5,066,000 after acquiring an additional 163,294 shares in the last quarter. Brooklyn Investment Group raised its holdings in Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras by 138.6% in the third quarter. Brooklyn Investment Group now owns 39,576 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $393,000 after buying an additional 22,991 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Vident Advisory LLC lifted its position in Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras by 71.4% in the 3rd quarter. Vident Advisory LLC now owns 107,419 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $1,066,000 after acquiring an additional 44,762 shares in the last quarter. 2.64% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

(Get Free Report)

Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras SA  Eletrobras, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and commercialization of electricity in Brazil. The company generates electricity through hydroelectric, thermoelectric, nuclear, wind, and solar plants. As of December 31, 2023, it owned and operated 44 hydroelectric plants with a total capacity of 42,293.5 megawatt (MW); 5 thermal plants, including coal and gas power generation units with a total installed capacity of 1,632 MW; and two nuclear power plants comprising Angra 1 with an installed capacity of 657 MW and Angra 2 with an installed capacity of 1350 MW.

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Dollar General (NYSE:DG  Get Free Report) was downgraded by stock analysts at The Goldman Sachs Group from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research note issued to investors on Thursday,Zacks.com reports.

Several other analysts have also recently issued reports on DG. Guggenheim reiterated a buy rating and issued a $125.00 price objective on shares of Dollar General in a research note on Friday, August 29th. Morgan Stanley upped their target price on shares of Dollar General from $115.00 to $125.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Friday, August 29th. Raymond James Financial raised their target price on shares of Dollar General from $125.00 to $130.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, August 29th. Truist Financial boosted their price target on shares of Dollar General from $119.00 to $120.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a report on Friday, August 29th. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein raised their price objective on shares of Dollar General from $122.00 to $134.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, August 29th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have issued a Buy rating, fourteen have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $118.14.

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Dollar General Trading Down 0.0%

Shares of DG stock traded down $0.00 on Thursday, hitting $104.19. The stock had a trading volume of 2,375,055 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,569,086. The companys 50 day moving average price is $102.47 and its 200-day moving average price is $105.70. Dollar General has a 1 year low of $66.43 and a 1 year high of $117.95. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.71, a current ratio of 1.25 and a quick ratio of 0.27. The firm has a market capitalization of $22.93 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.29, a P/E/G ratio of 2.10 and a beta of 0.30.

Dollar General (NYSE:DG  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, August 28th. The company reported $1.86 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.56 by $0.30. Dollar General had a net margin of 2.86% and a return on equity of 17.97%. The business had revenue of $10.73 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $10.68 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $1.70 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 5.1% on a year-over-year basis. Dollar General has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.800-6.300 EPS. Analysts anticipate that Dollar General will post 5.75 earnings per share for the current year.

Institutional Trading of Dollar General

Hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Creative Planning grew its position in Dollar General by 26.8% in the 3rd quarter. Creative Planning now owns 92,459 shares of the companys stock valued at $9,556,000 after buying an additional 19,546 shares during the last quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Dollar General by 266.3% during the third quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 53,878 shares of the companys stock worth $5,568,000 after acquiring an additional 39,168 shares during the period. AQR Capital Management LLC raised its holdings in Dollar General by 416.4% during the third quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 2,525,608 shares of the companys stock worth $259,759,000 after purchasing an additional 2,036,573 shares in the last quarter. Credit Agricole S A acquired a new stake in Dollar General in the third quarter valued at about $7,695,000. Finally, Raymond James Financial Inc. lifted its holdings in Dollar General by 1.5% in the third quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. now owns 748,130 shares of the companys stock valued at $77,319,000 after acquiring an additional 11,403 shares during the period. 91.77% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Dollar General Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Dollar General Corporation, a discount retailer, provides various merchandise products in the southern, southwestern, midwestern, and eastern United States. It offers consumable products, including paper and cleaning products, such as paper towels, bath tissues, paper dinnerware, trash and storage bags, disinfectants, and laundry products; packaged food comprising cereals, pasta, canned soups, fruits and vegetables, condiments, spices, sugar, and flour; and perishables that include milk, eggs, bread, refrigerated and frozen food, beer, and wine.

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BXP (NYSE:BXP  Free Report) had its price objective trimmed by Evercore ISI from $77.00 to $76.00 in a report published on Friday morning,Benzinga reports. The firm currently has an in-line rating on the real estate investment trusts stock.

A number of other research analysts have also commented on BXP. Cantor Fitzgerald assumed coverage on BXP in a report on Wednesday, October 1st. They set an overweight rating and a $90.00 price target on the stock. Jefferies Financial Group raised their target price on shares of BXP from $79.00 to $84.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Monday, October 13th. Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price target on shares of BXP from $78.00 to $77.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, August 27th. Scotiabank raised their price objective on shares of BXP from $77.00 to $81.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research note on Thursday. Finally, Piper Sandler upped their target price on BXP from $80.00 to $90.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 9th. Eight analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, nine have given a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, BXP has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $79.42.

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BXP Stock Performance

NYSE:BXP traded down $0.20 during mid-day trading on Friday, hitting $70.60. The stock had a trading volume of 1,059,428 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,649,097. The company has a current ratio of 4.50, a quick ratio of 3.76 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.26. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $73.35 and a 200-day simple moving average of $70.18. The stock has a market capitalization of $11.19 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -55.59, a P/E/G ratio of 7.35 and a beta of 1.20. BXP has a 52 week low of $54.22 and a 52 week high of $84.75.

BXP (NYSE:BXP  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.74 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.72 by $0.02. The company had revenue of $871.51 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $860.88 million. BXP had a negative net margin of 5.82% and a positive return on equity of 1.35%. BXPs revenue was up 1.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $1.81 earnings per share. BXP has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.890-6.920 EPS. On average, research analysts expect that BXP will post 6.91 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

BXP Cuts Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 31st. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, September 30th were paid a dividend of $0.70 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, September 30th. This represents a $2.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.0%. BXPs dividend payout ratio is currently -220.47%.

Insider Activity

In other news, EVP John J. Stroman sold 16,838 shares of BXP stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $72.17, for a total value of $1,215,198.46. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CFO Michael E. Labelle sold 13,422 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $72.34, for a total transaction of $970,947.48. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer owned 9,223 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $667,191.82. This trade represents a 59.27% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Company insiders own 1.49% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On BXP

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in BXP. Truist Financial Corp increased its stake in shares of BXP by 1.2% in the second quarter. Truist Financial Corp now owns 11,987 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $809,000 after buying an additional 145 shares during the period. Benjamin Edwards Inc. increased its position in BXP by 2.5% in the 3rd quarter. Benjamin Edwards Inc. now owns 6,544 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $487,000 after acquiring an additional 159 shares during the period. Envestnet Portfolio Solutions Inc. raised its stake in shares of BXP by 2.5% during the third quarter. Envestnet Portfolio Solutions Inc. now owns 6,476 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $481,000 after acquiring an additional 160 shares during the last quarter. CVA Family Office LLC raised its stake in shares of BXP by 12.4% during the second quarter. CVA Family Office LLC now owns 2,055 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $139,000 after acquiring an additional 226 shares during the last quarter. Finally, O ROURKE & COMPANY Inc lifted its holdings in shares of BXP by 3.8% during the third quarter. O ROURKE & COMPANY Inc now owns 6,147 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $457,000 after purchasing an additional 226 shares during the period. 98.72% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

BXP Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Boston Properties, Inc (NYSE: BXP) (BXP or the Company) is the largest publicly traded developer, owner, and manager of premier workplaces in the United States, concentrated in six dynamic gateway markets  Boston, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington, DC. BXP has delivered places that power progress for our clients and communities for more than 50 years.

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Security Financial Services INC. lifted its holdings in shares of Accenture PLC (NYSE:ACN  Free Report) by 10.2% during the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 2,992 shares of the information technology services providers stock after buying an additional 278 shares during the period. Security Financial Services INC.s holdings in Accenture were worth $894,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC boosted its stake in shares of Accenture by 12.2% in the 2nd quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC now owns 2,316 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $692,000 after buying an additional 252 shares during the period. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA lifted its stake in Accenture by 0.6% in the second quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 8,998,826 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $2,689,659,000 after acquiring an additional 56,108 shares during the last quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLC increased its position in shares of Accenture by 6.0% in the 2nd quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLC now owns 265,109 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $79,239,000 after purchasing an additional 14,991 shares during the last quarter. WP Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of Accenture by 1.0% during the 2nd quarter. WP Advisors LLC now owns 4,719 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $1,410,000 after purchasing an additional 46 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Nixon Peabody Trust Co. grew its stake in shares of Accenture by 26.3% during the second quarter. Nixon Peabody Trust Co. now owns 1,559 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $466,000 after purchasing an additional 325 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 75.14% of the companys stock.

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Accenture Stock Performance

Shares of ACN opened at $245.29 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.42, a current ratio of 1.42 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.16. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $244.66 and a 200-day simple moving average of $273.22. Accenture PLC has a 52-week low of $229.40 and a 52-week high of $398.35. The company has a market capitalization of $161.52 billion, a PE ratio of 20.19, a P/E/G ratio of 2.16 and a beta of 1.28.

Accenture Increases Dividend

Accenture ( NYSE:ACN Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, September 25th. The information technology services provider reported $3.03 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.98 by $0.05. Accenture had a return on equity of 26.45% and a net margin of 11.02%.The business had revenue of $17.60 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $17.34 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $2.66 EPS. The businesss revenue was up 7.3% on a year-over-year basis. Accenture has set its FY 2026 guidance at 13.190-13.570 EPS. Q1 2026 guidance at EPS. Equities research analysts predict that Accenture PLC will post 12.73 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Shareholders of record on Friday, October 10th were given a dividend of $1.63 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 10th. This is a positive change from Accentures previous quarterly dividend of $1.48. This represents a $6.52 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.7%. Accentures dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 53.66%.

Insider Transactions at Accenture

In related news, CEO Ryoji Sekido sold 2,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, October 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $249.47, for a total value of $623,675.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 1,390 shares in the company, valued at approximately $346,763.30. This represents a 64.27% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CEO Julie Spellman Sweet sold 9,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $249.57, for a total transaction of $2,246,130.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 23,516 shares in the company, valued at $5,868,888.12. This represents a 27.68% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders sold a total of 33,319 shares of company stock valued at $8,335,225 over the last three months. 0.02% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of analysts have issued reports on the company. Susquehanna decreased their price target on Accenture from $330.00 to $270.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Thursday, September 18th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their price target on Accenture from $302.00 to $290.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Friday, September 26th. Mizuho cut their price objective on shares of Accenture from $348.00 to $309.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Monday, September 29th. Rothschild Redb downgraded shares of Accenture from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 3rd. Finally, Citigroup raised shares of Accenture to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, October 23rd. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fifteen have issued a Buy rating, eleven have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $294.25.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on ACN

Accenture Profile

(Free Report)

Accenture plc, a professional services company, provides strategy and consulting, industry X, song, and technology and operation services worldwide. The company offers application services, including agile transformation, DevOps, application modernization, enterprise architecture, software and quality engineering, data management; intelligent automation comprising robotic process automation, natural language processing, and virtual agents; and application management services, as well as software engineering services; strategy and consulting services; data and analytics strategy, data discovery and augmentation, data management and beyond, data democratization, and industrialized solutions comprising turnkey analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions; metaverse; and sustainability services.

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National Bank of Canada (OTCMKTS:NTIOF  Get Free Report) was upgraded by analysts at Zacks Research from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a note issued to investors on Thursday,Zacks.com reports.

A number of other equities research analysts also recently issued reports on NTIOF. National Bankshares raised shares of National Bank of Canada from an underperform rating to a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday. Royal Bank Of Canada reaffirmed a sector perform rating on shares of National Bank of Canada in a report on Thursday, August 28th. Scotiabank reiterated an outperform rating on shares of National Bank of Canada in a report on Thursday, August 28th. Cibc World Mkts upgraded National Bank of Canada from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, August 1st. Finally, Desjardins raised shares of National Bank of Canada from a hold rating to a moderate buy rating in a report on Tuesday. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, National Bank of Canada has an average rating of Hold.

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National Bank of Canada Stock Down 0.2%

Shares of NTIOF traded down $0.27 on Thursday, reaching $115.40. The companys stock had a trading volume of 51,800 shares, compared to its average volume of 67,051. National Bank of Canada has a twelve month low of $74.21 and a twelve month high of $116.50. The company has a current ratio of 0.75, a quick ratio of 0.75 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.11. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $109.57 and a 200-day moving average of $103.61. The stock has a market capitalization of $45.12 billion, a PE ratio of 15.74 and a beta of 0.95.

National Bank of Canada (OTCMKTS:NTIOF  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, August 27th. The financial services provider reported $1.95 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.98 by ($0.03). National Bank of Canada had a net margin of 15.34% and a return on equity of 16.05%. The company had revenue of $2.49 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.47 billion. Equities analysts predict that National Bank of Canada will post 7.63 EPS for the current year.

About National Bank of Canada

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National Bank of Canada provides financial services to individuals, businesses, institutional clients, and governments in Canada and internationally. It operates through four segments: Personal and Commercial, Wealth Management, Financial Markets, and U.S. Specialty Finance and International. The Personal and Commercial segment offers personal banking services, including transaction solutions, mortgage loans and home equity lines of credit, consumer loans, payment solutions, and savings and investment solutions; various insurance products; and commercial banking services, such as credit, and deposit, investment solutions, international trade, foreign exchange transactions, payroll, cash management, insurance, electronic transactions, and complimentary services.

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Truepoint Inc. grew its stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Free Report) by 14.1% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 412 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 51 shares during the quarter. Truepoint Inc.s holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $321,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of LLY. Wealth Preservation Advisors LLC bought a new stake in Eli Lilly and Company during the 1st quarter worth $27,000. Blume Capital Management Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 46.7% during the second quarter. Blume Capital Management Inc. now owns 44 shares of the companys stock valued at $34,000 after purchasing an additional 14 shares in the last quarter. IMG Wealth Management Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company during the second quarter valued at about $35,000. TD Capital Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 129.2% during the first quarter. TD Capital Management LLC now owns 55 shares of the companys stock worth $46,000 after purchasing an additional 31 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Family CFO Inc acquired a new position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company in the second quarter valued at approximately $54,000. 82.53% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Eli Lilly and Company Price Performance

LLY stock opened at $1,024.67 on Friday. Eli Lilly and Company has a 1 year low of $623.78 and a 1 year high of $1,033.62. The stock has a market capitalization of $968.70 billion, a PE ratio of 66.97, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.21 and a beta of 0.43. The companys 50-day moving average is $826.89 and its 200-day moving average is $780.87. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.86, a current ratio of 1.28 and a quick ratio of 1.00.

Eli Lilly and Company Announces Dividend

Eli Lilly and Company ( NYSE:LLY Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $7.02 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $6.42 by $0.60. Eli Lilly and Company had a return on equity of 92.72% and a net margin of 25.91%.The business had revenue of $17.60 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $16.09 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $1.18 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 53.9% on a year-over-year basis. Eli Lilly and Company has set its FY 2025 guidance at 23.000-23.700 EPS. Equities research analysts expect that Eli Lilly and Company will post 23.48 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 10th. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be issued a dividend of $1.50 per share. This represents a $6.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.6%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 14th. Eli Lilly and Companys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 29.35%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

LLY has been the topic of several recent research reports. Scotiabank initiated coverage on Eli Lilly and Company in a report on Thursday. They set a sector outperform rating and a $1,165.00 target price on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group boosted their target price on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $876.00 to $879.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, October 10th. Morgan Stanley upped their price target on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $1,090.00 to $1,171.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday. Berenberg Bank reissued a hold rating and issued a $830.00 price objective (down from $970.00) on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Wednesday, September 17th. Finally, Leerink Partners raised Eli Lilly and Company from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and boosted their price objective for the company from $886.00 to $1,104.00 in a research note on Monday, November 10th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fifteen have given a Buy rating and six have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Eli Lilly and Company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $999.28.

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About Eli Lilly and Company

(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.

Further Reading

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DPM Metals (OTCMKTS:DPMLF  Get Free Report) announced its earnings results on Thursday. The company reported $0.73 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.58 by $0.15, Zacks reports. The company had revenue of $267.41 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $227.95 million. DPM Metals had a net margin of 37.07% and a return on equity of 21.68%.

DPM Metals Stock Performance

OTCMKTS DPMLF traded up $0.96 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $23.92. 44,776 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 90,500. The company has a market capitalization of $3.99 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.09 and a beta of 0.66. DPM Metals has a one year low of $8.65 and a one year high of $26.76. The companys 50-day moving average is $22.39 and its two-hundred day moving average is $18.28.

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DPM Metals Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 30th were given a $0.04 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Monday, September 29th. This represents a dividend yield of 72.0%. DPM Metalss payout ratio is currently 11.43%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research firms have recently issued reports on DPMLF. Royal Bank Of Canada raised shares of DPM Metals to a moderate buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 10th. CIBC reiterated a neutral rating on shares of DPM Metals in a report on Wednesday, October 1st. Stifel Canada raised DPM Metals to a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, September 4th. Scotiabank reissued an outperform rating on shares of DPM Metals in a research report on Thursday, October 23rd. Finally, Macquarie raised DPM Metals to a strong-buy rating in a report on Wednesday, September 17th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have issued a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, DPM Metals currently has a consensus rating of Buy.

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About DPM Metals

(Get Free Report)

Dundee Precious Metals Inc, a gold mining company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, mining, and processing of precious metals. The company primarily explores for gold, copper, and silver deposits. It holds a portfolio of projects located in Bulgaria, Namibia, Serbia, and Ecuador.

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Cultural & Historical Significance

Aaleyah holds profound significance in Islamic culture as a name that reflects divine blessings and elevated status. Derived from Arabic roots meaning 'exalted' and 'sublime,' it embodies the Islamic concept of God's greatest gifts to humanity. The name carries spiritual weight, suggesting someone who is blessed and highly regarded in both worldly and spiritual realms. In Muslim communities worldwide, naming a daughter Aaleyah expresses gratitude to Allah for the precious gift of a child while invoking aspirations for her to achieve high moral character and social standing.



The name's connection to divine favor makes it particularly meaningful in religious contexts, often chosen by parents who wish to acknowledge their child as a sacred trust from God. Throughout Islamic history, names with similar roots have been associated with women of noble character and significant achievement, reinforcing the cultural expectation that bearers of this name will embody excellence and grace. The name also reflects the Islamic values of thankfulness, recognition of divine blessings, and the aspiration for spiritual elevation in one's life journey.
JPMorgan Chase & Co. upgraded shares of Riskified (NYSE:RSKD  Free Report) from an underweight rating to a neutral rating in a research note issued to investors on Friday, MarketBeat reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. currently has $6.00 target price on the stock.

Several other analysts have also weighed in on RSKD. Wall Street Zen lowered Riskified from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, November 8th. Weiss Ratings reissued a sell (d-) rating on shares of Riskified in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Piper Sandler lowered their price objective on shares of Riskified from $7.00 to $6.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, August 18th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods dropped their target price on shares of Riskified from $5.50 to $5.25 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, August 19th. Finally, DA Davidson restated a buy rating and set a $6.00 target price on shares of Riskified in a report on Thursday. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have issued a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $5.89.

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Riskified Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:RSKD traded down $0.51 during trading on Friday, reaching $4.48. The company had a trading volume of 2,963,027 shares, compared to its average volume of 486,192. The firms fifty day moving average is $4.72 and its 200 day moving average is $4.88. The firm has a market capitalization of $722.22 million, a PE ratio of -19.48 and a beta of 1.36. Riskified has a twelve month low of $3.94 and a twelve month high of $5.99.

Riskified (NYSE:RSKD  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, November 12th. The company reported $0.04 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.03 by $0.01. The firm had revenue of $81.86 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $80.25 million. Riskified had a negative return on equity of 7.87% and a negative net margin of 11.04%.The firms quarterly revenue was up 3.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $0.03 earnings per share. Riskified has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. Equities analysts predict that Riskified will post -0.15 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Riskified

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. ARK Investment Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Riskified by 1.2% in the third quarter. ARK Investment Management LLC now owns 368,310 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,724,000 after purchasing an additional 4,248 shares in the last quarter. California State Teachers Retirement System raised its position in Riskified by 5.5% during the second quarter. California State Teachers Retirement System now owns 93,086 shares of the companys stock valued at $464,000 after buying an additional 4,826 shares during the period. Y.D. More Investments Ltd lifted its stake in Riskified by 20.4% in the 2nd quarter. Y.D. More Investments Ltd now owns 39,789 shares of the companys stock worth $198,000 after acquiring an additional 6,743 shares in the last quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. purchased a new stake in Riskified in the 2nd quarter worth about $36,000. Finally, Orion Porfolio Solutions LLC acquired a new stake in Riskified during the 2nd quarter worth about $54,000. 58.98% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Riskified

(Get Free Report)

Riskified Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, develops and offers an e-commerce risk management platform that allows online merchants to create trusted relationships with consumers in the United States, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Asia-Pacific, and the Americas. It offers Chargeback Guarantee that ensures the legitimacy of merchants' online orders; Policy Protect, a machine learning solution designed to detect and prevent refund and returns policy abuse in real-time; Account Secure, a solution that cross-checks every login attempt; Dispute Resolve, which is used to compile submissions for fraud and non-fraud related chargeback issues; and PSD2 Optimize that helps merchants avoid bank authorization failures and abandoned shopping carts.

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WealthShield Partners LLC lessened its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Free Report) by 1.6% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 3,235 shares of the companys stock after selling 52 shares during the quarter. WealthShield Partners LLCs holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $2,522,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. boosted its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 97.5% during the 1st quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 101,305,650 shares of the companys stock worth $83,669,349,000 after purchasing an additional 50,002,551 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 6.7% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 79,224,392 shares of the companys stock valued at $65,432,218,000 after acquiring an additional 4,975,395 shares during the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its position in Eli Lilly and Company by 0.6% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 12,707,512 shares of the companys stock worth $10,495,261,000 after acquiring an additional 81,587 shares during the period. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 13.3% in the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 5,821,993 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,808,443,000 after buying an additional 682,203 shares during the period. Finally, Nuveen LLC purchased a new position in Eli Lilly and Company during the 1st quarter worth $4,613,912,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 82.53% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

LLY has been the subject of several analyst reports. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Eli Lilly and Company from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Saturday, November 1st. Hsbc Global Res raised Eli Lilly and Company from a moderate sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, August 27th. Sanford C. Bernstein restated an outperform rating on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their price objective on Eli Lilly and Company from $876.00 to $879.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, October 10th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their target price on Eli Lilly and Company from $1,100.00 to $1,050.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, September 16th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fifteen have given a Buy rating and six have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $999.28.

Eli Lilly and Company Trading Up 0.2%

Eli Lilly and Company stock opened at $1,024.67 on Friday. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $826.89 and a 200 day moving average price of $780.87. Eli Lilly and Company has a 52 week low of $623.78 and a 52 week high of $1,033.62. The stock has a market cap of $968.70 billion, a PE ratio of 66.97, a P/E/G ratio of 1.21 and a beta of 0.43. The company has a current ratio of 1.28, a quick ratio of 1.00 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.86.

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $7.02 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $6.42 by $0.60. Eli Lilly and Company had a return on equity of 92.72% and a net margin of 25.91%.The company had revenue of $17.60 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $16.09 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $1.18 EPS. Eli Lilly and Companys revenue was up 53.9% on a year-over-year basis. Eli Lilly and Company has set its FY 2025 guidance at 23.000-23.700 EPS. Equities research analysts predict that Eli Lilly and Company will post 23.48 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Eli Lilly and Company Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 10th. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be paid a dividend of $1.50 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. This represents a $6.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.6%. Eli Lilly and Companys dividend payout ratio is currently 29.35%.

About Eli Lilly and Company

(Free Report)

Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes; and Zepbound for obesity.

Featured Articles

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Shares of Kion Group (OTCMKTS:KIGRY  Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during trading on Thursday . The company traded as high as $18.49 and last traded at $18.49, with a volume of 319 shares. The stock had previously closed at $17.94.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research analysts have issued reports on KIGRY shares. DZ Bank downgraded shares of Kion Group from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reiterated a buy rating on shares of Kion Group in a research report on Monday, October 6th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has given a Buy rating and one has issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Buy.

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Kion Group Trading Down 0.7%

The stocks fifty day moving average price is $16.87 and its 200 day moving average price is $14.96. The stock has a market cap of $9.47 billion, a P/E ratio of 37.60 and a beta of 2.03. The company has a current ratio of 0.99, a quick ratio of 0.68 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.16.

Kion Group (OTCMKTS:KIGRY  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $0.25 EPS for the quarter. Kion Group had a net margin of 2.08% and a return on equity of 3.89%. The business had revenue of $3.16 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.94 billion. Equities research analysts expect that Kion Group will post 0.78 earnings per share for the current year.

Kion Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

KION GROUP AG provides industrial trucks and supply chain solutions worldwide. The company operates in Industrial Trucks & Services and Supply Chain Solutions segments. It offers forklift trucks, counterbalance trucks with electric drive and internal combustion engine, ride-on and hand-operated warehouse trucks, automated guided vehicle systems (AGVs), and towing vehicles under the Linde, STILL, Baoli, Fenwick, and OM brands.

Further Reading

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Commerzbank AG (OTCMKTS:CRZBY  Get Free Report)s stock price gapped up prior to trading on Thursday . The stock had previously closed at $39.0010, but opened at $40.49. Commerzbank shares last traded at $40.39, with a volume of 2,138 shares changing hands.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

CRZBY has been the topic of a number of research analyst reports. The Goldman Sachs Group downgraded shares of Commerzbank from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 26th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft upgraded shares of Commerzbank from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Monday, November 10th. Citigroup restated a neutral rating on shares of Commerzbank in a report on Tuesday, August 5th. Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated a sector perform rating on shares of Commerzbank in a report on Monday, August 11th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods cut Commerzbank from a hold rating to a moderate sell rating in a research note on Tuesday, September 23rd. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold.

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Commerzbank Stock Down 3.5%

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 14.69, a current ratio of 12.40 and a quick ratio of 33.14. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $37.16 and a 200-day simple moving average of $35.03. The firm has a market cap of $46.04 billion, a PE ratio of 17.27 and a beta of 0.57.

Commerzbank (OTCMKTS:CRZBY  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The financial services provider reported $0.61 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.62 by ($0.01). The company had revenue of $3.37 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.46 billion. Commerzbank had a return on equity of 7.49% and a net margin of 10.51%. Sell-side analysts predict that Commerzbank AG will post 1.96 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Commerzbank

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Rhumbline Advisers boosted its holdings in Commerzbank by 14.5% in the first quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 5,140 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $117,000 after purchasing an additional 650 shares during the last quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC increased its stake in Commerzbank by 18.1% in the 3rd quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 4,841 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $183,000 after buying an additional 741 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Yousif Capital Management LLC raised its stake in Commerzbank by 8.0% during 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.

Commerzbank Company Profile

(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.

Further Reading

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Women named Abetzi are often perceived as deeply connected to nature and possessing a calm, reflective demeanor. They tend to be observant and intuitive, with an ability to recognize when change is necessary and adapt gracefully to new circumstances. Like the autumn leaf that changes color before falling, they understand the importance of transitions and often serve as guides during times of transformation in their communities. Their personality typically combines practical wisdom with artistic sensitivity, making them both grounded and creative.



These individuals often exhibit patience and resilience, understanding that all things have their season and proper timing. They value tradition while embracing necessary evolution, embodying the balance between preservation and progress that the changing seasons represent. Their connection to natural cycles often gives them a long-term perspective on life's challenges, and they tend to be reliable sources of stability and wisdom for those around them. The name suggests someone who appreciates beauty in transition and finds meaning in life's cyclical patterns.
Tanaiste Simon Harris has said the accusation that he is a populist is an attempt from the left to caricature him and shut me down.

He said that, as citizens were talking about migration, it should also be raised by politicians as he accused the Dail of being the only forum in Ireland where it was not discussed.

Mr Harris has come in for criticism for stating that migration numbers in Ireland are too high, both asylum applications and general migration, and that it would be irresponsible not to discuss the countrys immigration system.

He has been accused by the opposition of dogwhistling and of mirroring the politics of Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, which Mr Harris has denied.

On Saturday, Labour TD Conor Sheehan said Mr Harris was quite populist, citing his recent comments on migration.

That, to me, was just populism. Like it was just Simon Harris saying something a) to distract and b) to divide, he said in an interview with The Journal.

Responding, Mr Harris said that he was shocked at how reluctant Irish parliamentarians were to discuss migration.

He stressed once again that migration was a good thing and that Ireland benefits from migrants contributing to society in Ireland and making it their home.

He said it would be bizarre if the country did not have a national migration strategy and said that the comments were being made now as the number of asylum seekers arriving in Ireland has risen dramatically in recent years.

The effort to shut down this debate is kind of stark, and its really worrying, and its one of the reasons why so many Irish people feel disconnected from politics, he said speaking in Co Kildare on Saturday.

I intend to play my part as a political leader, and Fine Gael intends to play its part as a political party in having a constructive engagement.

The only populist stuff (has come from) the left in an attempt to caricature me and shut me down and they wont succeed.

He added: Im really quite shocked and taken aback by how reluctant politicians in our national parliament are to discuss migration.

It must be the only forum in Ireland where people dont discuss migration.

In every community in Ireland, these conversations are taking place, and its actually time to show a little bit of political leadership here and actually be willing to discuss issues.

Its easy to discuss issues that everybody agrees on. Its easy to discuss straightforward issues.

Its much more about political courage to be willing to actually talk about an issue that is complex.

Asked about a proposal whereby asylum is only granted on a temporary basis, so that if conditions change in a country of origin, that people would be returned, Mr Harris said it was an interesting idea that merits consideration.

This country is a compassionate country, I want to really clear on this, I dont want us to lose that in the debate, he said.

The far right try to hijack our national identity, they dont speak for us. They dont have a mandate to speak for us.

Were a good, decent people in this country, and we want to do right by people in difficult circumstances.

He said that the majority of people who seek international protection in Ireland are refused after appeal and said that there needed to be an honest conversation about this in a respectful manner.

Weve got to call out the disgusting, despicable criminal acts of people who deserve the full rigours of justice to be served and some of the horrors weve seen

Thats separate and distinct to having a policy debate.
The weather is nicer than usual and, sadly, that always means greater danger for locals out late at night.

Accordingly . . .

We share this look at ALLEGED misdeeds, court cases, police action and, as always, community outreach.

Check TKC news gathering . . .

Domestic violence shelters reaching capacity | KCMO leaders say they're working to address root causes Domestic violence advocates in Kansas City are sounding the alarm, saying case numbers are climbing and shelters are at capacity.

Search underway for construction workers who attacked woman at Kansas City Walmart A search is underway for a construction worker who stabbed a woman at a Kansas City Walmart.

'THCa two-step' lands unlicensed Kansas City weed dealers in court "These totally unlicensed Temu versions of dispensaries are making millions by saying what they're selling isn't marijuana."

Initial court hearing for WyCo deputy accused of murder to be held on Zoom The first court hearing for a Wyandotte County sheriff's deputy charged with murder will take place over Zoom on Tuesday, FOX4 has learned.

Women charged after fire destroys women's bathroom at KCPD headquarters A probable cause document said officers found the women in a restroom with smoke and fire damage to the toilet seat.

Clay County associate youth pastor charged for alleged sex crimes involving teen church member An associate youth pastor in Clay County, Missouri, is facing several charges for sex crimes involving a teenager.

Kansas City man charged with burglarizing chain seafood restaurant, bank Court documents filed in Jackson County charge 65-year-old Joseph Scrivo with a pair of felonies for a June 29, 2025, burglary.

Woman sentenced to prison for 2022 Platte County murder After pleading guilty back in August to the murder of a 31-year-old woman near Farley, Missouri in 2022, McKayla Archambeau was sentenced in court on Friday.

Lenexa man charged with child sex crime after arrest A Lenexa man has been charged with a child sex crime after a recent arrest.

Classmates of murdered 11-year-old girl continue to advocate against violence in her honor A teenager could face up to 30 years in prison after pleading guilty to murdering 11-year-old Kourtney Freeman. Re'Mori Roath shot into Freeman's home and killed her in April 2024.

Platte County school bus violations decline as police increase enforcement Platte County school bus violations decline as police increase enforcement. Community awareness also making an impact.

Overland Park company's drones become new tool in fight against property crime As drone use is growing, so are the purposes, from infrastructure inspection to videography.

Fallen KCK officers, Lee's Summit officer who survived shooting named 'Officers of the Year' Valor awards went to two Kansas City, KS law enforcement killed in the line of duty and a Lee's Summit, MO officer who survived a shooting.

Developing . . .
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 15. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev sent a congratulatory letter to his excellency Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine, Trend reports.

''Dear Mr. President,

On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I cordially congratulate you and, through you, your entire nation on the occasion of the national holiday of the State of Palestine.

The peoples of Azerbaijan and Palestine are bound together by friendly and fraternal ties. Azerbaijan has always demonstrated solidarity with the issue of Palestine, and supports the establishment of an independent State of Palestine with East Jerusalem as its capital and its resolution based on the two-state principle in accordance with relevant UN resolutions and decisions. I express my confidence that the outcomes of the Middle East Peace Summit held in Sharm el-Sheikh will contribute to peace, stability, and security in the region.

We will continue to provide necessary humanitarian assistance to Palestine. I believe that the friendly relations and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Palestine, built on good traditions, will continue to develop successfully in the future.

On this remarkable day, I wish you robust health, happiness, success in your endeavors, and peace and tranquility to the brotherly Palestinian people,'' the letter reads.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 15. France has strongly condemned Russias missile and drone strikes on Ukraine, as a result of which, among other things, the Embassy of Azerbaijan was damaged, the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs said, Trend reports.

France strongly condemns the massive strikes carried out during the night of November 1314 by the Russian Federation, mainly targeting the Ukrainian capital Kyiv, its energy infrastructure, residential districts, and a hospital. The attacks resulted in numerous civilian casualties and injuries, including children. The Embassy of Azerbaijan was also damaged.

These strikes of unprecedented scale  about 430 drones and 18 missiles  represent a new escalation and demonstrate, if further proof was needed, Russias lack of intention to work towards peace.

France expresses its full solidarity with Ukraine, its people and authorities, as well as with the staff of the Embassy of Azerbaijan. It reaffirms its unwavering support for Ukraines sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. France will continue its efforts together with all its partners to strengthen its support for Ukraine and increase pressure on Russia to bring an end to its war, the ministrys statement said.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 16. Belgium condemns in the strongest and clearest possible terms the wave of massive Russian attacks that have struck Ukraine in recent weeks, said Maxime Prevot, Belgiums Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Affairs, and Development Cooperation, Trend reports.

"Belgium condemns in the strongest and clearest possible terms the wave of massive Russian attacks that have struck Ukraine in recent weeks.

These bombardments have deliberately targeted civilians, residential neighbourhoods, hospitals, energy infrastructure and essential services. They have killed and wounded innocent people, including children, and left entire communities in fear and darkness.

Let us be very clear: these are war crimes. They are part of a systematic strategy to break the morale of the Ukrainian people. And yet, despite this brutality, Ukrainians continue to stand with extraordinary courage. Their resilience in the face of terror commands our deepest respect and solidarity.

We are also profoundly concerned by the strike that hit the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Kyiv. Targeting a diplomatic mission is not only unacceptable, it is a direct attack on the principles that hold the international system together. Belgium stands firmly with Azerbaijan and with all diplomatic personnel affected by this violence.

To the people of Ukraine: you are not alone. We remain by your side. Together with our European and international partners, we will continue our support and increase pressure on Russia until this illegal and immoral war ends, he wrote on his page on X.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 15. Baku Metro CJSC, part of AZCON Holding, has signed a procurement contract with Metro Istanbul. The agreement, valued at 586,500 manat ($344,969), covers engineering consultancy and expert services for metro expansion projects under the 20252030 State Program, Trend reports.

Metro Istanbul will provide advisory services on evaluating engineering and technological solutions, analyzing operational models, assessing environmental and social impacts, and reviewing financial and commercial terms for international financial institutions. Detailed opinions and recommendations will be submitted in these areas.

Given that the expansion projects will be financed by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), an independent expert evaluation of project documents by an operator with proven operational experience is required to meet international standards.

Baku Metro has been studying modern metro systems worldwide for several years, adopting best practices and expanding international partnerships. Metro Istanbul currently operates 18 lines with a total length of 241 km and 236 stations. Its innovative solutions, management efficiency, and system scale make it one of the worlds leading metro operators.

This collaboration aligns with Baku Metros development strategy and will significantly contribute to ensuring high engineering standards in the design and implementation of new metro lines and stations.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 15. The next group of former internally displaced persons is returning to the village of Mamedbeyli in the Zangilan region and to the village of Khydyrly in the Aghdam region, Trend reports.

At this stage, 30 families, 143 people, have been resettled to the village of Mamedbeyli in the Zangilan region, and 50 families, 219 people, to the village of Khydyrly in the Aghdam region.

The former IDPs returning to the native village thanked President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Vice President Mehriban Aliyeva for their comprehensive care and expressed gratitude to the valiant Azerbaijani Army, which liberated the lands from occupation.

Currently, more than 50,000 people live in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur. Among them are former internally displaced persons who have returned to these areas, as well as employees involved in the implementation of restoration and construction projects, employees of local departments of various government agencies, and specialists employed in healthcare, education, culture, tourism, industry, and energy institutions that have resumed their activities.
AGHDAM, Azerbaijan, November 15. The next group of former internally displaced persons (IDPs) sent to their native land has arrived in Khidirli village of the Aghdam district, Trend reports.

At this stage, 50 families (219 people) were given keys to their apartments in Khidirli.

The ceremony was attended by representatives of the Special Representative Office of the President of Azerbaijan in the Aghdam, Fuzuli, and Khojavand districts, as well as the State Committee for Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons.

Currently, more than 50,000 people live in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur. Among them are former internally displaced persons who have returned to these areas, as well as employees involved in the implementation of restoration and construction projects, employees of local departments of various government agencies, and specialists employed in healthcare, education, culture, tourism, industry, and energy institutions that have resumed their activities.

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Individuals named Alchfrith are typically associated with a personality that combines traditional wisdom with adaptive intelligence. They often exhibit natural leadership qualities, demonstrating both the authority expected of historical nobility and the diplomatic skills necessary for navigating complex social situations. This combination makes them particularly effective in roles requiring mediation between established traditions and new approaches, much like their historical namesakes who operated during periods of significant cultural transition. Their decision-making tends to be deliberate and well-considered, reflecting a deep respect for history and precedent while remaining open to innovation when circumstances demand.



In interpersonal relationships, those named Alchfrith often display strong loyalty and protective instincts toward their community and principles. They typically possess a quiet confidence that inspires trust in others, coupled with a strategic mindset that allows them to see the broader implications of their actions. While they may appear reserved initially, they usually develop deep, meaningful connections with those who share their values and intellectual curiosity. Their personality often includes a strong sense of responsibility toward preserving important traditions while recognizing the necessity of evolution, creating a balanced approach to both personal growth and community leadership that respects the past while engaging constructively with the present.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 15. Uzbekistans Qanot Sharq airline will launch regular flights on the TashkentLondonTashkent route starting from December 15, 2025, Trend reports via the country's Ministry of Transport.

The new flights will operate biweekly, on Mondays and Thursdays. These services will be provided using the airlines latest aircraft model, the Airbus A321-XLR. Qanot Sharq will be responsible for operating the flights to Londons Gatwick International Airport (LGW).

Meanwhile, aviation authorities from Uzbekistan and the United Kingdom reached an agreement to increase the number of airlines offering regular flights between the two countries. This decision was made during an informal meeting held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in 2024, as part of the ICAOs Air Services Negotiation Event ICAN-2024.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 15. Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan had set ambitious plans to increase trade turnover $4 billion to $10 billion by expanding mutual supplies and substituting imports, Trend reports via the press service of the Uzbek president.

The plans were highlighted during the meeting between President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

Cargo transportation volumes between the two nations continue to rise, complemented by over 40 weekly flights connecting key cities. A total of 6,500 joint ventures have been established, with major projects underway across prioritized sectors. To further enhance industrial collaboration, a project portfolio valued at over $8 billion has been developed. Additionally, the parties have proposed the establishment of a Joint Investment Platform to facilitate such initiatives.

The discussions also placed significant emphasis on expanding mutually beneficial cooperation in critical sectors, including energy, transport, the chemical industry, agriculture and water management, environmental protection, and information technology, among others.

President Tokayev is currently on a state visit to Uzbekistan and is taking part in the 7th Consultative Meeting of Central Asian Leaders. The summits agenda is expected to include the establishment of an International Center for Industrial Cooperation, along with the signing of several agreements aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 15. Iran's Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadegh, will travel to Russia within the next 1-2 weeks to finalize the contract for the construction of the Rasht-Astara railway in northern Iran under the framework of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), the minister told reporters, Trend reports.

Sadegh stated that the signing of the contract had been delayed by 1-2 weeks due to legal issues related to the agreement. Iran has sent an invitation to Russia to sign the contract, with legal matters remaining a key focus alongside implementation details.

The minister emphasized that three main issues are central to the Rasht-Astara railway construction: acquisition of the land through which the railway passes, application of financial and transit fee concessions, and provision of funding for the railways construction.

Regarding the first issue, Sadegh noted that trust has already been established with Russia, as the Russian side has observed Irans swift progress in acquiring the necessary land. Legal and regulatory aspects continue to be carefully addressed in the second issue.

As for the third issue, it concerns the funding required for the Rasht-Astara railway construction. The total cost was initially estimated at 1.6 billion euros, with Iran expected to cover 15% of the amount. The Iranian side has repeatedly stated that it cannot provide these funds, a position that has been acknowledged and accepted by the Russian side, she noted.

She added that the contract must fully define the scope and details of the work, which has contributed to the slight delay in finalization.

An intergovernmental agreement signed between Russia, Iran, and India on September 12, 2000, laid the foundation for the North-South Transport Corridor. In general, several countries have ratified the said agreement (Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bulgaria, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Oman, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkiye, and Ukraine). The purpose of creating the corridor is to reduce the time of delivery of goods coming from India to Russia, as well as to Northern and Western Europe (the delivery time on the current route is more than six weeks; it is expected to be three weeks via North-South).

The Qazvin-Rasht railroad (175 km) was put into operation on March 6, 2019, to connect Azerbaijan's railroads with Iran's railway network within the corridor. The Rasht-Astara railroad is to be built on Iranian territory.

The North-South Corridor has three directions within Iran. The eastern direction is Turkmenistan and Central Asian countries; the middle direction is Russia and other countries across the Caspian Sea; and the western direction is Azerbaijan, Georgia, Russia, and Eastern European countries.

On May 17, 2023, an agreement was signed between Russia and Iran on the construction of the Rasht-Astara railroad in Gilan province in northern Iran. Nine stations will be built on the Rasht-Astara railroad line, which is about 163 kilometers long. With the completion of this railroad, the North-South international corridor will be improved, and Iran's railroad network will be integrated with the Caucasus countries, Russia, and Northern European countries. According to the agreement, the Russian side is expected to spend 1.6 billion euros for the construction of this railroad. This railroad will be built and completed within 48 months.

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ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, November 15. Turkmenistan is preparing to open a new Turkmen-Uzbek border trade center and strengthen regional cooperation as part of President Serdar Berdimuhamedovs upcoming participation in the 7th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia in Tashkent, Trend reports via the country's Cabinet of Ministers.

The plans were presented by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov at a government meeting, which included a briefing on preparations for the summit in Tashkent.

According to information, the summit agenda will cover expanded regional cooperation, including political, economic, and security issues, as well as coordination on major international topics. In addition, several parallel events will be held to deepen regional cooperation.

President Berdimuhamedov directed Rashid Meredov to oversee comprehensive preparations for both the summit and the state visit, underscoring the strategic importance of deepening relations with Uzbekistan, one of Turkmenistan's key neighboring partners.
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, November 15. Turkmenistan is preparing for the upcoming meeting of the Joint Intergovernmental Turkmen-Qatari Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation, which will take place in Doha this month, Trend reports via the Turkmen Cabinet of Ministers.

In an announcement delivered by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Nokerguly Atagulyev during a government meeting, it was stated that the upcoming session will center on broadening cooperation across key sectors, including trade, economics, investment, finance, banking, energy, transport and communications, information technology, agriculture, and environmental protection. Additionally, the agenda will explore avenues for strengthening cultural and humanitarian ties, with a particular focus on education, culture, youth policy, sports, and tourism.

President Serdar Berdimuhamedov approved Turkmenistans proposed composition of the Intergovernmental Commission.

Turkmenistan and Qatar have intensified their collaboration in recent years, particularly through the framework of their Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation.
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, November 15. Ashgabat is set to host the upcoming session of the joint TurkmenTatarstan Working Group on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical, and Cultural Cooperation in November. Trend reports via the Turkmen Cabinet of Ministers.

The announcement was made by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Hojamyrat Geldimyradov during the government meeting.

He underscored that preparations for the session are progressing, with a primary focus on deepening cooperation in key sectors such as trade, oil and gas, energy, transport, communications and IT, textiles, agriculture, environmental protection, science, education, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, culture, sports, and youth policy.

President Serdar Berdimuhamedov highlighted the strategic importance of strengthening relations with Tatarstan and signed a resolution to finalize the preparatory steps.

The ninth meeting of the Joint Working Group between Turkmenistan and Tatarstan, held in Kazan in August 2024, proved to be a pivotal forum for advancing economic collaboration. A key outcome of this meeting was the exploration of opportunities for expanding the presence of Tatarstan-based companies in Turkmenistan, particularly through the potential establishment of new production and assembly facilities for major enterprises such as KAMAZ and Tatneft.
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OPEC+ oil revenues forecast to surge to $2.5T by 2050, IEA says

Photo: Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan

OPEC+ oil production is set to rise steadily over the coming decades, with output projected to reach record levels by 2050, according to the latest International Energy Agency (IEA) outlook.

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TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 15. President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Zhaparov discussed measures to boost bilateral trade and accelerate the implementation of key cooperation projects in industry, transport, energy, and infrastructure, Trend reports via the press service of the Uzbek president.

The sides also emphasized the importance of maintaining active interregional exchanges and strengthening cultural and humanitarian ties. They exchanged views on current regional issues as well.

President Zhaparov is currently on a state visit to Uzbekistan and is participating in the 7th Consultative Meeting of Central Asian Leaders. The summits agenda is expected to include the establishment of an International Center for Industrial Cooperation, along with the signing of several agreements aimed at further deepening bilateral cooperation.

Meanwhile, trade turnover between Uzbekistan and the countries of Central Asia and Azerbaijan increased by 10 percent in the first nine months of 2025, reaching $5.5 billion. Trade between Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan accounted for nearly $700 million over the same period.
Individuals bearing the name Aleyn are often characterized by a profound depth of character that combines practical wisdom with spiritual insight. Drawing from the Fisher King archetype, they typically exhibit remarkable endurance in the face of suffering and a quiet strength that inspires others. There's a contemplative quality to their nature - they are observers and thinkers who process experiences deeply, often emerging with wisdom that others find valuable. This makes them natural counselors or guides, though they may not actively seek such roles. Their suffering, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, often becomes a source of strength and understanding rather than bitterness.



At the same time, Aleyns possess a grounded, practical aspect reflected in the 'fisher' component of their archetypal identity. They understand the value of patience, the importance of timing, and the need to work with natural rhythms rather than against them. This combination creates individuals who are both mystical and practical, capable of profound spiritual insight while remaining engaged with the real world. They often serve as bridges between different realms of experience - the spiritual and material, the wounded and whole, the questing and the finding. Their personality embodies the paradox that true strength often comes through vulnerability, and that those who have suffered deeply may become the most effective healers and guides for others.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 15. Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev met Tajik President Emomali Rahmon at the Kuksaroy residence ahead of the seventh Consultative Meeting of Central Asian heads of state, the Uzbek presidents office said, Trend reports.

The two sides discussed ways to deepen bilateral ties, focusing on strengthening the countries partnership in trade, industry, energy, agriculture and other priority sectors. They emphasized the need for coordinated measures to boost mutual trade and advance joint cooperation projects, the statement said.

Mirziyoyev and Rahmon also highlighted the importance of expanding cultural and humanitarian exchanges, as well as fostering more active interregional contacts.

The presidents exchanged views on regional cooperation in Central Asia, underscoring their shared interest in maintaining stability and promoting closer integration.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 15. The partnership between Azerbaijan and the Central Asian countries is shaping a new model of regional integration based on an alliance of middle powers, Professor of the University of World Economy and Diplomacy Ulugbek Khasanov told Trend.

This cooperation expands the influence of the participating countries beyond their individual capacities and creates new trade routes, reducing dependence on traditional corridors through Russia or Iran. It opens additional opportunities for the EU, China, and regional players in logistics and energy supply, the expert said.

Commenting on cooperation prospects ahead of the Seventh Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and Azerbaijan, Khasanov noted that the Consultative Meetings with Azerbaijans participation have already evolved into an effective mechanism of sustainable regional integration.

Over the years, this format has enabled the countries of the region to develop coordinated approaches in economic, transport, energy, and political cooperation. This strengthens trust, enhances resilience, and boosts the regions competitiveness, Khasanov noted.

He added that such an alliance format strengthens the negotiating positions of Central Asian states within the Eurasian geopolitical landscape.

The combination of Bakus dynamic regional posture with Astanas stable and balanced diplomatic profile allows for effective coordination on issues of security, trade, and multilateral diplomacy, he said.

Khasanov emphasized that the upcoming Seventh Consultative Meeting in Tashkent reaffirms the importance of the format as a tool for sustainable regional integration.

The summit will mark a new milestone in shaping a stable, interconnected, and prosperous Central Asia, he concluded.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 15. Today marks five years since the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), the European segment of the Southern Gas Corridor, entered commercial operation, delivering Azerbaijani natural gas to European markets.

TAP has evolved into one of the continents most critical supply routes, reinforcing Europes energy security and standing as proof of the successful realization of a complex, cross-border infrastructure project. More than an engineering accomplishment, the pipeline represents a strategic undertaking that connects countries, markets, and energy systems in pursuit of long-term sustainability.

None of this would have been possible without Azerbaijan, the nation that supplied the projects resources and played a decisive role in bringing the initiative to life. Guided by Bakus strategic vision, political resolve, and consistent energy policy, TAP has become a dependable corridor that strengthens Europes position in the global gas market. Today, the pipeline stands not only as a technological milestone but also as a testament to Azerbaijans central role in diversifying energy supplies and shaping a more resilient regional energy architecture.

At the inaugural meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council in 2015, President Ilham Aliyev recalled that a joint declaration on the Southern Gas Corridor had been signed in 2011 with then-President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso. That document formally identified Azerbaijan as the principal contributor to the corridor and the country responsible for driving the project forward.

Today, at a time when Azerbaijans role in safeguarding Europes energy security is acknowledged at the highest levels, the foresight behind President Ilham Aliyevs remarks in 2015 is even more evident:

"Diversification of energy resources is an issue which is discussed now on the main arenas of internal organizations. Azerbaijan is playing its role in diversification. When we are talking about diversification we are talking about diversification of sources, not only diversification of routes. Diversification of routes is important, but when the sources are same it doesn`t change a lot. Diversification of sources is important. Here, the Caspian gas, gas from Azerbaijan is the only new gas source for European consumers in the coming years. This will, of course, create an absolutely different picture."

When these words are viewed against todays geopolitical landscape, the accuracy and foresight of the head of states strategic vision become unmistakable. Since February 2022, Europes energy security has taken on unprecedented urgency, and diversification has shifted from a policy objective to an essential requirement.

Europe is now pursuing new, reliable, and predictable energy sources with greater determination than ever. And at this moment, Azerbaijans long-standing strategic course, set well before the current crises, has demonstrated its full significance.

Azerbaijan has emerged as a pivotal supplier of new gas to Europe, achieving not only diversification of routes but also, and more critically, diversification of supply sources, exactly as President Ilham Aliyev anticipated a decade ago. The Southern Gas Corridor, TAP, TANAP, and expanded production at Shah Deniz collectively form the backbone of Europes current energy architecture.

TAP history

In 2003, the Swiss EGL Group (Axpo) announced the Trans Adriatic Pipeline project. The feasibility study spanned nearly three years and concluded in 2006, during which two possible routes were evaluated: a northern path through Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Albania, and a southern path through Greece and Albania.

After assessing these alternatives, the Shah Deniz consortium officially confirmed on June 28, 2013, that it had selected the current TAP route for delivering gas from the Shah Deniz 2 project to consumers in Greece, Italy, and southeastern Europe. The groundbreaking ceremony took place in Thessaloniki, Greece, on May 17, 2016.

Test gas flows on the Greek section began in November 2019, and construction of the pipeline was completed in October 2020. Following its connection to Italys gas distribution network on November 15, commercial transportation of Azerbaijani gas to Europe commenced on December 31.

Today, Azerbaijan supplies natural gas to 12 countries, 10 of which are in Europe, including 8 members of the European Union.

According to the Azerbaijani Ministry of Energy, TAP has positioned Azerbaijan as the fourth-largest supplier of pipeline gas to the European Union, accounting for a 7% market share. To date, the pipeline has transported 51.2 billion cubic meters of gas to European markets, including 42.9 billion cubic meters to Italy, 4.9 billion to Greece, and 3.4 billion to Bulgaria. In the first nine months of this year alone, TAP delivered 8.5 billion cubic meters of gas, 7 billion cubic meters to Italy, 0.8 billion to Greece, and 0.7 billion to Bulgaria.

President Ilham Aliyev, speaking at the 11th Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council in April, emphasized that the geographic scope of Azerbaijani gas deliveries to Europe will continue to widen, as Azerbaijan is already involved in the development of gas distribution networks across several European countries.

"Some of them do not have one, some of them need to expand it, and Azerbaijan, as an investor, is planning to do that. So, the geography of our gas supplies will definitely grow through different ways, including interconnectors," the head of state noted.

TAP expansion

The planned increase in TAP throughput, an additional 1.2 billion cubic meters by 2026, was formally approved in January 2024. Since then, Azerbaijan has adjusted its gas production strategy to support this expansion. The upgraded capacity will allow for the transport of greater volumes of Azerbaijani gas, broadening the number of recipient countries and further extending the regional supply network.

Since 2022, a High-Level Energy Dialogue has been underway, co-chaired by the Azerbaijani Ministry of Energy and the European Commissioner for Energy. The expansion of the Southern Gas Corridor and the scaling-up of supply volumes remain central priorities of this platform. In recent years, Azerbaijan has mobilized its resources to ensure TAP operates at full capacity, while achieving nearly a 60% increase in gas exports to Europe and opening supply routes to non-TAP countries through Turkiye and Bulgaria. Any further growth in deliveries to Europe will depend directly on the policy orientation of the European Union.

Speaking at the 11th Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council, President Ilham Aliyev emphasized that the integrated 3,500-kilometer pipeline system now serves as a critical backbone of energy security for numerous countries.

"And now it is working at full capacity. Whether its the South Caucasus Pipeline, TANAP, or TAP - three integral parts of the Southern Gas Corridor - all are fully packed. So we need to expand. And for that, we will need, of course, financing. And we come to a very important point, which we have raised on several occasions - that international financial institutions, those who decided to stop financing fossil fuel projects, will probably reconsider their policy, especially taking into account the huge geopolitical changes that we all witness. Because without that, any further investments in transportation infrastructure and even in upstream will be very problematic," the head of state said.

Undoubtedly, European countries that currently receive Azerbaijani gas and are seeking to increase their volumes, as well as those aiming to gain access to Azerbaijani supplies, recognize that such growth requires the expansion of existing infrastructure.

In an interview with Trend, a European Commission representative highlighted that, as part of Europes strategy to diversify gas supplies and reduce reliance on Russian sources, the European Union intends to increase deliveries via the Southern Gas Corridor and is collaborating closely with the Azerbaijani government and other corridor partners to achieve this goal.

The representative noted that the EU continues to work with stakeholders to assess the potential for expanding TAPs throughput capacity amid a changing energy landscape.

"Since 2022, overall gas demand in the EU has declined due to energy efficiency measures and the increasing share of renewable energy. However, non-Russian gas remains critical for meeting demand and ensuring energy security. As current EU regulations no longer permit the use of EU budget funds for international fossil fuel projects, any expansion of TAPs transport infrastructure must be commercially justified and aligned with market demand and pricing conditions. In this context, regular TAP market tests are essential for evaluating interest and determining the need for additional capacity in a transparent and non-discriminatory manner," the European Commission representative said.

TAPs green agenda

The Trans-Adriatic Pipeline, spanning multiple countries and diverse geographic regions, exemplifies a strong commitment to minimizing environmental impact, protecting ecosystems, and supporting local communities.

As TAP Managing Director Luca Schieppati told Trend, the pipeline adheres to strict environmental, social, and cultural heritage (ESCH) standards, ensuring continuous monitoring, assessment, and management throughout its lifecycle.

"From planning and design to construction, we collected extensive data on sensitive environmental and social aspects to guide our operations, mitigate risks, and integrate principles of prevention, mitigation, and sustainability into the ESCH management system. The pipeline route and locations of aboveground facilities were carefully selected to minimize impact on ESCH-sensitive areas wherever possible. All facilities comply with national standards of the participating countries, approved Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs), EU directives, lender requirements, and TAPs internal management system," he stated.

TAP recently reaffirmed its commitment to the Gold Standard Pathway under the Oil & Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)s flagship initiative for methane emissions measurement and reduction. This recognition underscores TAPs dedication to accurately understanding, quantifying, and reducing methane emissions at every stage of operation. The certification confirms that TAP has developed a comprehensive roadmap for measuring and reporting methane emissions in line with the rigorous OGMP 2.0 standards, which serve as a global benchmark for transparency and efficiency in the oil and gas sector.

The technical feasibility of transporting hydrogen via TAP is also under evaluation.

Five years of successful operation of the Trans Adriatic Pipeline underscore the strategic vision of President Ilham Aliyev. TAP has evolved beyond a mere infrastructure project to become a critical pillar of Europes energy security, ensuring reliable supplies of Azerbaijani gas while facilitating the diversification of sources and transit routes.

Amid growing demand for sustainable energy and the imperative to strengthen energy security, European countries are showing clear interest in expanding Azerbaijani gas supplies. Nations already receiving Azerbaijani gas are seeking to increase volumes, while those not yet connected to the Southern Gas Corridor are expressing interest in accessing this dependable source.

The current geopolitical landscape and market realities call for a pragmatic approach. A full energy transition is unattainable without interim solutions. It is therefore essential that international financial institutions reassess their stance and continue supporting natural gas transport projects, particularly the expansion of the Southern Gas Corridor.

Experience from the implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor demonstrates that close collaboration between Azerbaijan and European partners, coupled with foresight and strategic planning, delivers tangible results. Today, the same level of determination and vision is required to safeguard Europes long-term energy security.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 15. The Southern Gas Corridor - with the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) as its last leg into the EU - was always regarded as an important addition to EU gas supplies and EU energy security, former UK ambassador to Azerbaijan James Sharp told Trend, as TAP marks 5 years since the start of commercial operation.

"Even if the total percentage it contributed was not huge, TAP was seen as an important diversification of supply, a way of delivering pipeline gas from the Caspian region for the first time, and through a route which did not depend on Russia. The Russian invasion of Ukraine in early 2022 showed clearly how prescient the Azerbaijani government and its partners had been - the importance of TAP for EU energy security was transformed from "nice to have" to "necessary"," he said.

The former ambassador pointed out that Azerbaijani reliability as an energy partner has never been in doubt.

"bp is are very happy operating here, with the contract stability and good relationship they enjoy with SOCAR and the Azerbaijani government. But the value of Azerbaijans reliability as a partner was dramatically highlighted following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the EUs attempts to reduce its imports of Russian pipeline gas. Suddenly Azerbaijan became the "go-to" provider for replacement gas supplies for South East Europe in particular. So, the Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria on TAP - which was originally seen as a small offshoot to the main purpose of TAP in delivering gas to Italy - suddenly became crucial for a large number of countries in Central and South East Europe who needed to reduce or stop Russian gas imports. Ive been impressed at how quickly Azerbaijan responded by increasing gas export volumes, agreeing deals and finding ways to deliver its gas to a much wider range of countries than had originally been anticipated. This was a true sign of a reliable partner," said Sharp.

As for the future expansion of TAP, the former ambassador noted that if it is to happen - Azerbaijan, Turkiye and their partners will need to take on some of the financial risk.

"Adding gas from Turkmenistan via a Trans-Caspian pipeline could help make the finances more attractive. One interesting angle is the recent start of the supply of Azerbaijani gas to Syria. While not involving TAP and while these initial volumes may not be large, it highlights opportunities for Azerbaijan to play an increasing role in the region, especially in the event of a wider peace agreement," he concluded.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 15. The State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) is holding active talks with major rating companies to obtain new ESG (Environment, Social and Governance) ratings, Trend reports via the company.

According to SOCAR, expanding access to alternative financial resources, strengthening cooperation with global investment funds, and increasing the use of green and sustainable financial instruments remain key priorities.

SOCAR noted that it became the first company in the Caspian region to receive an initial BBB ESG rating from MSCI based on ESG (Environment, Social, and Governance) criteria, demonstrating a stronger position compared to many national oil companies.

At present, SOCAR is also negotiating with other rating agencies to receive additional ESG ratings, the company stated.

S&P Global Ratings is widely regarded as one of the most influential international credit rating agencies, providing benchmark assessments of credit quality and risk across global capital markets. Its ratings play a decisive role in shaping the investment strategies and borrowing plans of investors and financial institutions. SOCARs current BB rating represents the companys strongest assessment in the past eight years.

SOCAR has maintained positive free cash flow for four consecutive years despite recent volatility in global energy markets, while also preserving a stable debt profile and strong liquidity. Effective risk management, operational resilience, and prudent financial decision-making have supported these results. The stable outlook issued by S&P Global Ratings reflects a positive and credible medium- to long-term expectation of SOCARs ability to sustain its current financial performance.

Additionally, the reduction of debt obligations, the preservation of liquidity, and growing confidence in international financial markets demonstrate the effectiveness of SOCARs long-term financial management strategy. As a result of this comprehensive approach, the company has, for the first time in its history, received two international investment-grade credit ratings, BBB from Fitch Ratings and Baa3 from Moodys. These assessments underscore SOCARs financial stability and credibility across global capital markets, the statement added.

S&P Global Ratings has also upgraded SOCARs long-term issuer rating to BB.

SOCARs enhanced financial resilience, its central role in the national economy, the scale and strategic significance of its operations, and continued improvements in corporate governance standards were identified as key factors behind the rating upgrade.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 15. Azerbaijans COP29 Presidency, in partnership with COP30, hosted a high-level Ministerial Dialogue dedicated to climate transparency as part of the 30th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Brazil's Belem, Trend reports.

The event was attended by Azerbaijans Presidential Climate Envoy and COP29 President Mukhtar Babayev, Deputy Foreign Minister and COP29 Chief Negotiator Yalchin Rafiyev, COP30 President Andre Correa do Lago, UNFCCC Executive Secretary Simon Stiell, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Executive Director Inger Andersen, senior representatives from the European Union, and environment ministers and deputies from China, the United Kingdom, Norway, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Angola, Tuvalu, and other countries, alongside leaders of various international organizations.

During the discussions, participants evaluated progress on the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF), a crucial mechanism for the effective implementation of the Paris Agreement, which is now celebrating its tenth anniversary. The dialogue emphasized the importance of Biennial Transparency Reports (BTR), first introduced at COP29, along with the challenges associated with their preparation and potential avenues for future collaboration.

Azerbaijans leadership during its COP29 Presidency was acknowledged for its significant contributions to advancing climate transparency, with the Baku Global Climate Transparency Platform (BTP) recognized as a pivotal initiative in strengthening global transparency efforts within the climate agenda.

In his address, COP29 President Mukhtar Babayev underscored the critical role of climate transparency in fulfilling the commitments of the Paris Agreement and highlighted that the collaborative environment fostered in this area would remain essential in driving forward the global climate agenda.

COP29 Chief Negotiator Yalchin Rafiyev highlighted Azerbaijans initiatives under COP29 to strengthen climate transparency and accountability. He noted the support provided to various countries in preparing BTRs through the BTP and stressed the importance of continuing high-level meetings to keep climate transparency at the forefront of the political agenda. Rafiyev underscored that this positive practice, initiated by Azerbaijan, should continue in future COP events.

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ASTANA, Kazakhstan, November 15. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev have held talks on strengthening bilateral cooperation, Trend reports via the press service of the Kazakh president.

In the course of the meeting, the presidents discussed the prospects for further developing the strategic partnership and alliance between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

Key areas of cooperation identified during the discussions included trade, industrial collaboration, transport and logistics, energy, agriculture, water resources, as well as cultural and humanitarian exchange. Additionally, the presidents engaged in dialogue on various regional and international matters.

President Tokayev is currently on a state visit to Uzbekistan, where he is participating in the 7th consultative meeting of Central Asian leaders. The meeting's agenda is expected to focus on the establishment of an International Center for Industrial Cooperation, along with the signing of multiple agreements aimed at further strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, November 15. The U.S. has lifted sanctions on the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC), Tengizchevroil (TCO), and the Karachaganak oil field in Kazakhstan, tied to Russian energy giants Rosneft and Lukoil, Trend reports via the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

The sanctions imposed in October on Rosneft, Lukoil, and their subsidiaries were partially relaxed through the issuance of General License No. 124B. This license permits U.S. companies to resume services and transactions related to these significant energy projects, though it specifically prohibits the sale or transfer of ownership stakes in any of the ventures.

Lukoil holds a 5 percent stake in the Tengizchevroil consortium and a 13.5 percent interest in the operator of the Karachaganak field, among other holdings. Rosneft, meanwhile, owns a 7.5 percent share in the Caspian Pipeline Consortium.
The proposal was put forward by Kazakhstans President, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, during the 2nd session of the Supreme Intergovernmental Council, attended by Uzbekistans President, Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

Tokayev emphasized the importance of continuing effective cooperation within the framework of the Middle Corridor, the North-South Corridor, and railway routes through Afghanistan.

According to Tokayev, governments should continue to create favorable conditions for all participants in logistics chains, addressing infrastructure, regulatory, and institutional challenges. He noted that at present, the countries have 78 joint projects worth more than $1.7 billion, which are expected to create over 15,000 jobs.

He also highlighted the significance of successfully implementing the Program to Increase Bilateral Trade, aiming for $10 billion by 2030. Tokayev noted that practical results are expected from the work of the newly established Council of Regional Heads and other bilateral mechanisms, including the Business Council and the joint trading company UzKazTrade.

President Tokayev is currently on a state visit to Uzbekistan. On November 16, he will participate in the 7th Consultative Meeting of Central Asian Heads of State.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, November 15. Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have agreed to establish a bilateral working group focused on geology and the extraction of rare and rare-earth metals, Trend reports via the press service of the Kazakh president.

The agreement was signed by Presidents Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan and Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan following the second meeting of the High Intergovernmental Council in Tashkent.

In addition to the formation of the new working group, the presidents signed a resolution establishing a Council of Regional Heads between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, aimed at addressing transboundary water management challenges. This includes efforts to forecast water flow across shared rivers.

Presidents Tokayev and Mirziyoyev also oversaw the exchange of several important intergovernmental and interdepartmental agreements. Among these were accords related to the coordination of radio frequencies in border regions, the conduct of joint military exercises, and the establishment of customs service representations in both countries.

Further memoranda were signed across a variety of sectors, including mining, healthcare, social medical insurance, energy, and tourism, underscoring the broad scope of cooperation between the two nations.
Those bearing the name Ancaeus are often characterized by their strong sense of duty and natural leadership abilities. Like the mythological figure who stepped up to guide the Argo, they tend to be individuals who assume responsibility when needed and possess the competence to handle challenging situations. Their personality combines physical strength with practical intelligence, making them effective problem-solvers in both personal and professional contexts.



The adventurous spirit of the original Argonaut often manifests in a love for exploration and new experiences. However, this is typically balanced by a grounded, reliable nature that makes them trustworthy companions and leaders. They may exhibit a competitive edge and determination to prove their worth, while maintaining deep loyalty to their principles and the people they care about. This combination of bravery and reliability makes them natural leaders in challenging circumstances.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, November 15. KazMunayGas (KMG) and Uzbekneftegaz (UNG) have reached an agreement on the principles of the Zharkyn geological exploration project in Kazakhstan, Trend reports via KazMunayGas.

The agreement was signed during the state visit of Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to Uzbekistan.

The Zharkyn hydrocarbon block is located in the Mangystau region of Kazakhstan. As part of earlier geological studies, KMG conducted a 2D seismic survey spanning 1,275 linear kilometers, which identified promising structures in the area. Under the new agreement, KMG and UNG plan to drill two exploration wells, each with a depth of 2,000 meters.

According to KMG, this is the first joint geological exploration project between the two national oil and gas companies and aims to strengthen energy cooperation between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

The agreement outlines the key terms of the strategic partnership, with both companies agreeing to a 50/50 partnership on the project. The Uzbek side will finance the exploration phase of the project.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, November 15. Kazakhstans Samruk-Kazyna and Uzbekistans Fund for Reconstruction and Development have signed a framework agreement to create a joint investment platform in key sectors, Trend reports via Samruk-Kazyna.

The agreement was finalized following the second session of the High Intergovernmental Council between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, attended by Presidents Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Shavkat Mirziyoyev in Tashkent.

The newly established platform will prioritize exploring investment prospects in key sectors, including metallurgy, mining, transportation, and logistics. Both parties have committed to collaborative efforts in identifying and developing emerging investment opportunities, as well as exchanging information on ongoing and forthcoming projects.

During President Tokayevs visit to Uzbekistan, a series of memoranda were signed spanning various sectors such as mining, healthcare, social medical insurance, energy, and tourism.

According to data from the Kazakhstan Bureau of National Statistics, the trade turnover between the two countries reached $17 billion during the period from January to August 2025.
The agreement was formalized following the second session of the High Intergovernmental Council between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, which took place in Tashkent and was attended by Presidents Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

The document outlines the mechanisms for bilateral cooperation concerning transboundary rivers and canals that serve both countries' populations and agricultural sectors. It includes provisions for coordinating the operational management of shared water infrastructure, conducting regular joint inspections, and implementing preventive measures to ensure the infrastructure operates reliably and avoids potential emergencies.

Furthermore, the agreement establishes a commitment to develop a joint automated system for monitoring water intake and discharge along transboundary sections, incorporating real-time data exchange. This system is expected to enhance oversight of water resource usage and promote greater transparency and trust between the water management authorities of both nations.

The agreement also outlines measures for the modernization and repair of water infrastructure, reducing water losses, implementing water-saving technologies, and improving the land reclamation of irrigated areas. Furthermore, the two countries will coordinate efforts to prevent and mitigate the effects of floods, droughts, and other natural disasters.

To implement the agreement, a Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan Intergovernmental Commission will be established. This commission will coordinate the implementation of the agreements, make decisions on the operation of shared water facilities, form specialized working groups, and facilitate dialogue between the competent authorities of both countries. The commission will meet twice a year, alternately in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

Kazakhstans Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Nurlan Nurgizhitov, emphasized that this agreement is the result of years of collaborative work, initiated in 2017. The agreement builds upon existing international obligations between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, including the 1992 Central Asia Cooperation Agreement on the joint management, use, and protection of transboundary water resources, as well as the UN Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes and the Convention on the Law of Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, November 15. President Sadyr Zhaparov has appointed Kudaibergen Bazarbayev as the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Kyrgyzstan to Kazakhstan, Trend reports via the press service of the Kyrgyz president.

Kudaibergen Bazarbayev, formerly Director of the State Agency for Civil Service and Local Self-Government under the Cabinet of Ministers, succeeds Dastan Dyushekeyev, who was relieved of his duties following the conclusion of his diplomatic service.

Bazarbayev has had a distinguished career in Kyrgyzstan's public administration and political spheres. He has served as a deputy in both city and district councils in Bishkek, held leadership positions within district administrations, and worked across various ministries, including Culture and Tourism, Social Development, Labor, Social Security, and Migration. Additionally, Bazarbayev has held senior roles within the presidential administration and provided advisory services to international organizations such as the World Food Programme.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, November 15. The upcoming 7th Consultative Meeting of Central Asian heads of state in Tashkent is set to give new momentum to regional integration and strengthen unity across Central Asia, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev said at a briefing, Trend reports, citing the president's press service.

Speaking to reporters following talks with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Mirziyoyev highlighted the key role of the Consultative Meeting format in advancing regional cooperation.

He also emphasized the importance of mutual support on multilateral platforms, including the United Nations (UN), the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), the Organization of Turkic States, and various 'Central Asia Plus' formats.

During Tokayevs state visit to Uzbekistan, the second session of the Supreme Interstate Council took place, focusing on key aspects of the bilateral agenda. A major milestone of the visit was the opening of the International Center for Industrial Cooperation.

Mirziyoyev noted that trade between the two countries has grown by about 15 percent since the beginning of the year, reaching nearly $4 billion, with comprehensive efforts underway to raise it to $10 billion by 2030.

In addition, projects worth roughly $1.3 billion were launched, and discussions covered the development of transport and energy cooperation in the region.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 15. An official announcement regarding the accession of new participants to the "Azerbaijan-Central Asia" green energy corridor can be expected soon, said Khayotjon Ibragimov, head of the Center for Energy Diplomacy and Geopolitics at Uzbekistan's University of World Economy and Diplomacy, Trends special correspondent reports.

Speaking to reporters in Tashkent, Ibragimov highlighted the growing international interest in joining the project as global electricity demand continues to rise.

"I am confident that we will soon see an official announcement regarding the inclusion of additional participants in this initiative, he stated.

The expert also underscored the significant potential of the proposed green energy corridor linking Azerbaijan with Central Asia. He pointed out that initial evaluations have reinforced the project's viability, particularly in light of Europes rising electricity needs and the anticipated increase in renewable energy generation in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.

In November 2024, in Baku, on the sidelines of COP29, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan signed a strategic partnership agreement on the production and transmission of green energy. This project integrates the countries energy systems and creates opportunities to export clean power to Europe, reducing the EUs dependence on traditional sources.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 15. The resolution proposed by the U.S. and the European trio (UK, France, and Germany) at the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will not create any changes in the current implementation of safeguards agreements in Iran, Irans permanent representative to the IAEA, Reza Najafi, told reporters, Trend reports.

Najafi noted that requiring the IAEA Director General to report based on expired UN Security Council resolutions would practically complicate the existing situation.

The official criticized the US and European trio for abusing international mechanisms to impose their views on Iran. At the Board of Governors, they are attempting to achieve in Vienna what they could not in New York by using their majority, he said.

He added that demanding reports from the IAEA Director General under expired UN Security Council resolutions is completely illegal and deals another blow to diplomacy.

Iran calls on all members of the IAEA Board of Governors to oppose the unilateral actions of the US and the European trio regarding our nuclear program, and Iran reserves the right to respond to this illegal move, Najafi emphasized.

The next meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors will be held in Vienna on November 19. Reports indicate that the European trio intends to present a draft resolution at this session, addressing concerns over Irans nuclear activities, imposing new restrictions, and requiring ongoing reporting on Irans uranium stockpiles.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Cultural & Historical Significance

Archenhaud carries significant weight in French cultural history as a name that emerged during the medieval period, particularly among noble families and military leaders. The name's distinctive sound and rare usage made it a marker of aristocratic lineage in regions like Normandy and Burgundy, where it was often borne by landowners and regional governors. Throughout French history, the name has been associated with individuals who played crucial roles in shaping regional politics and cultural development.



During the Renaissance, the name gained additional prestige as several notable scholars and architects bore the name, contributing to France's intellectual and architectural heritage. The name's persistence through centuries, though never common, reflects its enduring appeal among families valuing tradition and historical continuity. In modern times, Archenhaud represents a connection to France's rich medieval past and serves as a distinctive choice for those seeking a name with deep historical roots and noble connotations.
Asaduddin Owaisis formula to stop BJP in Bihar sparks buzz

A day after 2025 Assembly election results, the All India Majlis e Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) of Asaduddin Owaisi has proposed a formula to stop the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) from forming a government in Bihar

Patna: A day after 2025 Assembly election results, the All India Majlis e Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) of Asaduddin Owaisi has proposed a formula to stop the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) from forming a government in Bihar.

The BJP has long dreamed of forming a government in Bihar, and it is all but certain that its dream will come true as it has emerged as the single largest party after the 2025 Bihar Vidhan Sabha Chunav.

The Bihar Assembly has a total of 243 seats. The BJP has won 89 seats whereas its alliance partner, Janata Dal (United) has won 85 seats. With the help of other smaller parties, the BJP-JD (U) led NDA alliance has won a total of 202 seats  much more than the magic figure of 121 required to form a government.

However, there is a catch.

Nitish Kumar wants to remain Chief Minister of Bihar. But the BJP, which had declined to name him the CM face during the election, has so far maintaining a guarded silence over the new CM pick.

Amidst the brewing tension over the CM face within the NDA, the AIMIM has added fuel to fire by proposing an interesting formula which the Owaisis party believes will stop the BJP from forming a government in Bihar.

AIMIM Formula for Bihar

The AIMIM has won a total of 5 seats in the 2025 Bihar assembly elections. On the other hand, the Cong-RJD Mahagathbandhan has won a total of 35 seats  far less than the magic number of 121 to form a government.

However, if Nitish Kumar joins in with his 85 MLAs, the BJPs dream to form a government in Bihar could remain a dream again.

And this is what Asaduddin Owaisi has proposed.

There is still a chance

Janata Dal (U), RJD, Congress, AIMIM, CPI (ML), CPI (M) EQUAL to Government, the AIMIM Bihar Unit wrote in a post on social media platform X.

   







AIMIM

CPIML

CPIM

Equal to

#BiharElection2025  AIMIM Bihar (@aimimpartybihar) November 15, 2025

In another post on micro blogging site X, AIMIM rolled out a more detailed formula to form a non-BJP government in Bihar.

We have always been doing the politics of accommodation, not divisive

There is still a chance

AIMIM  Chief Minister

JD (U)  Two Deputy Chief Ministers and 20 Ministers

RJD  Six Ministers

Congress  Two Ministers

CPI (ML)  1 Minister

CPI (M)  1 Minister

Equal to Sarkar, the AIMIM Bihar wrote on X ending its post saying, Nitish Kumar Prime Minister face in 2029.

,      ,        

AIMIM 

 2 , 20 

 6 

 2 

CPIML 1 

CPIM 1 

Equal to



***   , 2029#BiharElection2025  AIMIM Bihar (@aimimpartybihar) November 15, 2025

To double down the AIMIM proposal, Asaduddin Owaisi himself, while talking to a news channel, said "he is ready to work with Nitish Kumar".

Is the AIMIM formula practical?

The AIMIM formula may look hypothetical, but mathematically it is practical as the above parties together have a total of 125 seats  4 more than the required 121.

This is why the AIMIM proposal of a non-BJP government in Bihar has sparked buzz.

Political analysts are of the opinion that the AIMIM formula can really destroy the BJP Bihar game plan, if it tries to make someone other than Nitish Kumar the new Chief Minister of Bihar.

It is in public domain that Nitish Kumar is not ready to leave the CM chair which he holds since last 20 years. But, the BJP does not want this as it wants to someone from the party to lead the new government.

The political commentators say if the BJP is not ready to support Nitish Kumar as CM, he may switch side and join hands with RJD-Congress Mahagathbandhan, which will also need support of 5 AIMIM MLAs to form a non-BJP government.

The Secular Parties Owaisi Dilemma

Interestingly, Asaduddin Owaisi had proposed to contest the 2025 Bihar elections as one of the constituents of the INDIA blocs Mahagathbandhan.

Owaisi started with a demand of 20 seats then came down to 10, then to 6 and finally to 5 which the AIMIM had won in 2020.

The Mahagathbandhan, however, refused to accommodate the AIMIM, and the result is that the AIMIM not only retained its earlier tally but also improved its vote share .

Political analysts say AIMIM as Chief Minister in Owaisis Bihar formula is a gimmick. If any negotiation indeed starts and these so called secular parties are really interested in forming a non-BJP government in Bihar, Owaisi may settle down for the post of Deputy CM, accepting Nitish Kumar as Chief Minister.

At the moment, the AIMIM formula looks like a pipe dream. Also, some political commentators are of the view that Owaisi's formula is unrealistic, and the AIMIM Chief is actually mocking the Mahagathbandhan parties. But, if the war within the BJP-JD (U) NDA alliance over the post of Chief Minister intensifies, it can certainly attract Nitish Kumar if he wants to remain Chief Minister of Bihar.

[Ahmed Abdullah Faizee is Trainee Writer at ummid.com]

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Delhi Blast: Suspicion First, Evidence Later

This phenomenon is not new. It is the natural extension of a decade-long drift where Muslims in India have not just been blamed for crimes they did not commit, but targeted for simply existing within a landscape where trust has become communal and suspicion automatic.

[Mohit Chauhan (@mohitlaws) shared this image on X with this comment: These are the family members of Nauman, who lost his life in the Delhis Red Fort bomb blast. Sanghis are trying to portray this as an attack on a religion, because they lack courage to stand against terrorists and Pakistan. This was not an attack on any religion, it was an attack on India and Indians. The mainstream media wont show you Naumans story because it doesnt fit their agenda of dividing India, the same agenda for which terrorists came to Pahalgam and now again to Delhi.]

When the blast shook Delhi recently, the immediate aftermath revealed something deeper than the debris: A reflexive national instinct to assign guilt before gathering facts.

Within minutes of the explosion , television panels speculated about Islamic groups, anonymous social media accounts circulated Muslim names, and political commentators hinted at familiar patterns  even as official agencies had not yet released a single verified detail.

This phenomenon is not new. It is the natural extension of a decade-long drift where Muslims in India have not just been blamed for crimes they did not commit, but targeted for simply existing within a landscape where trust has become communal and suspicion automatic.

The 12 Ummah report documents this trend with precision, underscoring how mob lynching, vigilante attacks, and pre-emptive blame have collectively reshaped the public imagination. The Delhi blast merely exposed how deeply this suspicion is embedded in the national psyche.

An Accusation Economy

The speed with which Muslims were framed after the Delhi blast is symptomatic of a larger problem: India has developed an accusation economy, where certain communities serve as convenient repositories for public fear. The process requires no evidence, no investigative timeline, no restraint. A name, a rumour, a WhatsApp forward  these are often enough to create the perception of guilt.

This climate is not accidental. It is shaped by years of vigilante violence and mob lynching, incidents in which Muslims were attacked for reasons ranging from cattle transport to unrelated personal disputes. The said report provides detailed accounts of such incidents across Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Jharkhand  all marked by a chilling uniformity  mobs act with confidence, victims plead without remedy, and police interventions are either delayed, diluted, or redirected against the survivors themselves.

When such a culture matures, it inevitably spills into national events. The Delhi blast fallout shows how public suspicion has now been pre-conditioned. Crime scenes no longer begin with forensic investigation; they begin with communal conjecture.

Lynching as a Social Instruction

To understand why a single blast triggers collective suspicion toward Muslims, one must examine how lynching has evolved over the past decade. Public lynchings are not merely acts of violence; they are social instructions. They tell communities where they stand in the hierarchy of citizenship and who is allowed to claim dignity, security, and protection.

There were multiple cases where victims were killed on mere allegations  carrying cattle, eating meat, or simply being outsiders. Videos of these acts often circulate online, not as shameful evidence but as trophies. The perpetrators do not hide their faces; in many cases, they proudly record their violence, confident that consequences will be minimal.

This confidence is not misplaced. In the Mohammad Akhlaq lynching case, a defining moment in Indias contemporary history, the legal process moved at a glacial pace for a decade. And then, in 2025, charges against the accused were quietly dropped due to insufficient evidence. Ten years after Akhlaq was murdered based on a rumour that beef was stored in his home, the system effectively declared that no one could be held responsible.

The message this sends is unmistakable: Mobs may kill, but justice may not follow.

When the states response to lynching becomes hesitant or hollow, society internalizes a dangerous logic  that Muslims can be harmed without repercussions, blamed without scrutiny, and judged without trial.

Delhi Blast: The Mob Mindset Without the Mob

What makes the Delhi blast response distinct is that the violence was not physical  it was psychological, rhetorical, and reputational. Yet the pattern was identical to a lynching, accusation without evidence, collective targeting, public shaming, predetermined guilt and absence of due process.

The difference is simply that instead of a street mob, the reaction came from digital platforms, prime-time studios, and political commentary. The violence was not in blows but in narratives  and these narratives travel faster, reach farther, and damage reputations long before facts can intervene.

The makes clear that vigilante violence does not always require a physical mob; sometimes, it is a social ecosystem that performs the lynching through words, suspicions, and insinuations. The Delhi blast revealed how that ecosystem now operates on autopilot.

From Fear to Self-Policing

For Indian Muslims, the psychological impact is profound. Lynching incidents have already made it risky to transport cattle, travel through certain districts, or even defend oneself in a public confrontation. Now, national tragedies like the Delhi blast add another layer: the fear that even when a crime has nothing to do with the community, suspicion will still fall on them.

This produces a culture of self-policing where some families avoid travel, young men are asked to refrain from gathering in groups to avoid drawing suspicion, people monitor their own speech and appearance in public spaces and students are taught to keep low profiles during tense political moments.

This is not Equality. It is Survival.

Restoring Due Process as National Discipline

India does not need new laws to prevent mob violence; it needs institutions that treat all citizens equally and reject narratives built on prejudice. The starting point must be the restoration of due process  not as a procedural formality but as a national discipline.

A blast in Delhi should trigger investigation, not imagination.

A rumour should not become a verdict.

A community should not become a suspect class.

If we continue down this path, the question will not be whether mobs rule the streets; it will be whether the idea of justice can survive in a nation where identity determines guilt.

A Moment for Reflection

The Delhi blast should have united citizens in grief and resolve. Instead, it has exposed how fractured trust has become. To rebuild it, India must confront the culture of impunity that has allowed lynching to become normalized and suspicion to become automatic.

The 12 Ummah report warns that mob violence is not simply a symptom of anger  it is a method of social control. And unless this method is rejected decisively, both democratically and justice will continue to shrink.

[The writer, Syed Azharuddin, is a Political Commentator]

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Those bearing the name Autolycus typically exhibit a complex blend of intellectual brilliance, charismatic charm, and strategic thinking. They are natural problem-solvers who excel at seeing opportunities others miss and navigating complex situations with remarkable finesse. Their intelligence often manifests as quick wit and verbal dexterity, making them compelling conversationalists and persuasive negotiators. While they value independence and resist being constrained by rules or conventions, they usually operate with an internal ethical code that prevents them from causing genuine harm. This combination of cleverness and underlying morality makes them fascinating individuals who can adapt to various circumstances while maintaining their core identity. They often serve as catalysts for change in their communities, using their unique perspectives to challenge stagnant systems and inspire innovation.
Individuals named Avichai are often perceived as strong, protective, and family-oriented. The literal meaning 'my father is alive' tends to manifest in personality traits centered around loyalty, responsibility, and a deep sense of connection to family heritage. They are typically seen as reliable individuals who value tradition and maintain strong bonds with their roots. Many Avichais display leadership qualities and a protective nature, possibly influenced by the name's association with biblical warriors. They often exhibit emotional depth and maturity beyond their years, carrying themselves with a sense of purpose and responsibility.



While they can be traditional in their values, they also demonstrate adaptability and resilience when facing challenges. The combination of family devotion and inner strength makes them natural pillars in their communities and families. Avichais are often described as having a calm, steady presence that others find reassuring. They tend to be thoughtful decision-makers who consider the impact of their actions on those around them, particularly their family members. Their connection to their name's meaning often gives them a profound appreciation for life and relationships, making them deeply committed partners, parents, and friends who prioritize the wellbeing of their loved ones.
Last weekend I once again attended the bi-annual OSM Hack Weekend in Karlsruhe hosted by Geofabrik. Ive also been at the OSM Hack Weekend in Berlin hosted at Wikimedia Deutschland a couple of weeks ago and havent written about that yet, so this is the combined report for both events.

Transitous

Transitous, our community-run public transport routing service, has been the topic of several discussions:

Ways to deal with GTFS static feed rotation happening out of sync with corresponding realtime feeds. This results in time periods where available realtime information cannot be matched to base schedule data and thus gets needlessly discarded.

How to best configure GBFS provider groups as supported by MOTIS v2.7.

Integrating GBFS data from Citybikes, which would substantially increase the amount of available rental vehicle data.

Assessing what it would take to add Transitous as an additional routing option to the OpenStreetMap website.

Investigating how far along the OSM Road Closures GSoC project is, as that kind of data is obviously very interesting to integrate eventually.

Exploring whether FOSSGIS e.V. would be a suitable organisational home for Transitous.

Available rental vehicles shown on Transitous' map view.

KPublicTransport

KPublicTransport, KDEs client library for accessing different journey planning services used by Itinerary and KTrip, got a few improvements to catch up with Transitous and MOTIS v2.6 and v2.7 changes:

Access to agency/operator URLs.

Querying available station-bound and free-floating rental vehicles from MOTIS.

Support for direct booking URLs for station-based rental vehicles.

Station-bound rental vehicles other than bikes are now also displayed with the correct vehicle icon on the map.

Itinerary's station map showing a car rental station and two free-floating rental bikes.

Indoor mapping

Indoor mapping was of course also on the agenda:

I got to try Tobiass JOSM patches improving level filtering. Especially the option to filter on elements without a level tag is helpful for fixing level tagging in existing buildings for me.

We talked about ongoing tagging discussions from TU Munichs BIM import, in preparation for the next quarterly OSM Indoor Meetup.

We discussed whether we should have another in-person Indoor tagging workshop following the one from 2022, in order to have some time to work on finalizing tagging proposals and updating the current indoor tagging documentation.

Emergency and weather alerts

At the CAP Implementation Workshop two weeks ago a WFS/OGC feature layer for CAP alerts was mentioned, and presented as something so far only offered by a commercial entity.

With my almost non-existent GIS knowledge this looked like something that shouldnt be too hard to provide by our CAP alert aggregation service as well. And thanks to the input from the right people I got a basic prototype set up in less than an hour. All the magic is provided by pg_featureserv, which can expose a PostGIS database (which we already have) in a way it can be consumed by e.g. QGIS.

QGIS with a CAP alert message layer.

One important difference here is that unlike its proprietary counter-part this doesnt expose many CAP fields yet, as we hold only the bare minimum as dedicated database columns right now. However, should anyone actually need this, adding more columns isnt a big deal.

Event planning

We also looked at upcoming events in 2026 and how we could have Transitous specifically and the Open Transport community more generally represented there:

39C3, 27-30 Dec in Hamburg Germany. Well try to have some kind of Transitous meetup there.

FOSDEM, 31 Jan-1 Feb in Brussels, Belgium. The CfP for the Railways & Open Transport track is still open and we have poked a few people to submit talks.

FOSSGIS-Konferenz, 25-28 Mar in Gottingen, Germany. The CfP is already closed, a few proposals have been submitted.

Still further out is next years State of the Map which will be end of August in Paris, France. Thats obviously something where Transitous should be present as well, and where we might have the option of a travel-optimized adjacent Transitous sprint along the way.

Ideas for a 2026 edition of the Open Transport Community Conference are also floating around already, volunteers to drive this still very much needed though.

You can help!

Hack weekends how this is called in the OSM community or sprints as this is known in the KDE community are immensely valuable and productive. Theres a great deal of knowledge transfer happening, and they are a big motivational boost.

However, physical meetings incur costs, and thats where your donations help! KDE e.V. and local OSM chapters like the FOSSGIS e.V. support these activities.
The leader of the Indiana state Senate, a Republican, has said that his chamber will no longer meet in December as planned to vote on redistricting, citing lack of support from his members
Women named Azelie typically exhibit a unique blend of gentle grace and quiet strength that makes them both approachable and admirable. They tend to be deeply intuitive individuals who possess remarkable emotional intelligence, allowing them to understand others with uncommon depth and empathy. Their reserved nature often masks a rich inner world of creativity and contemplation, making them excellent problem-solvers who approach challenges with thoughtful consideration rather than impulsive action. Azelies are known for their loyalty and dependability, often becoming the steady center in their social and family circles.



Despite their gentle exterior, Azelies possess a core of resilience and determination that enables them to overcome obstacles with quiet perseverance. They value authenticity and depth in relationships, preferring a few meaningful connections over numerous superficial ones. Their natural dignity and poise often make them role models within their communities, though they typically avoid the spotlight, preferring to make their impact through consistent, meaningful actions rather than dramatic gestures. This combination of inner strength and outward grace makes Azelies particularly effective in roles requiring patience, understanding, and steady leadership.
Italy's coalition partners rally behind Cirielli ahead of key regional election in Campania.

Edmondo Cirielli, the candidate backed by Italy's right-wing government in the upcoming regional elections in Campania, has pledged to give an extra 100 a month to residents who receive the minimum pension.

In a video post on X on Friday, Cirielli, 61, said the monthly pension top-up would come from regional funds.

The promise was among several election pledges including boosting employment and halving waiting times in the public health service in the southern Italian region.

If elected, Cirielli vowed that if he had not achieved 50 per cent of his aims after two and a half years - halfway through his mandate - he would resign "with immediate effect".

Roberto Fico

Cirielli, a senior member of Meloni's right-wing Fratelli d'Italia party, will face Robero Fico, a member of the left-wing, populist Movimento 5 Stelle (M5S).

Fico, 51, served as president of the Italian chamber of deputies from 2018 to 2022 under former premier and now M5S leader, Giuseppe Conte. He is backed by the M5S with the support of the centre-left Partito Democratico (PD).

Both Cirielli and Fico are seeking to replace the outgoing PD governor of Campania, Vincenzo De Luca, 76, who has served two terms over the past decade and cannot seek a third mandate.

Naples rally

Cirielli made his electoral pledges ahead of a major election rally at the Palapartenope stadium in Naples attended by prime minister Giorgia Meloni and deputy premiers Matteo Salvini and Antonio Tajani.

There were scenes of merriment - Tajani and Meloni hopped along to a chorus of "Anyone not jumping is a communist!" - but not before the premier launched a stinging attack against both De Luca and Fico.

Telling the crowd to spread the word about Cirielli, Meloni said there was "an alternative to failure, to cronyism, to mockery, to fried fish [festivals] to gain votes, to turncoats, to those who have given up everything just for the seat of power."

The first attack referred to De Luca whose boasts about his achievements in healthcare were slammed by Meloni as "just a three card trick".

The fried fish festival jibe referred to a spat with the Campania governor who famously called the prime minister a "bitch", an incident alluded to again by Meloni during her speech in Naples.

pic.twitter.com/U4IvGBHd9z  Crazy Ass Moments in Italian Politics (@CrazyItalianPol) November 14, 2025

The "turncoat" label was reserved for Fico who, Meloni recalled, once described the PD as "the number one threat to the country, and today he's allied himself with the regional president".

"I'd like to ask Fico if De Luca's way of governing is ok, because for years the Movimento 5 Stelle has described it as a clientelist model" - Meloni said - "Were they lying before, or has Fico decided to join the very system they were fighting against?"

Sangiuliano and Boccia

Meloni hailed Campania as a "heritage to be defended" rather than "a problem to be solved", to applause from the audience which included former culture minister Gennaro Sangiuliano in the front row.

Sangiuliano, who resigned as minister last year following a high-profile scandal involving his relationship with his former advisor Maria Rosaria Boccia, recently launched the election slogan 'Make Naples Great Again' as he seeks a seat as regional councillor.

Boccia had also been running in the Campania race but pulled out earlier this month after receiving a second notice of investigation following a complaint filed by Sangiuliano.

However, in a surprise twist on Wednesday, Boccia announced that she was back in the race.

Key election

A recent poll predicted Fico would win 53 per cent of the vote in Campania, compared to Cirielli's 42 per cent, however Meloni insisted that "predictions can be proved wrong".

Tajani went further, saying he was confident that Cirielli would be Campania's next governor, while Salvini said he saw a "wide open" race that "can be won."

With Melonis coalition currently governing 14 out of 20 Italian regions, the government is particularly keen to wrest control of Campania from the left.

Since coming to power three years ago, the coalition has won several regional elections and recently celebrated the re-election of governors Francesco Acquaroli in Marche and Roberto Occhiuto in Calabria.

Right-wing candidates also lost to the centre-left last year in Sardinia, Umbria and Emilia-Romagna as well as more recently with the re-election of Eugenio Giani in Tuscany.

The Campania elections will be held on 23-24 November together with regional votes in Veneto, governed by the right-wing Lega, and in the left-controlled Puglia.

Photo Corriere della Sera TV
High Court Reporter

A deadlocked jury in the case of a former Garda who alleged he was wrongfully struck by a 6'8" garda with a baton after a high speed pursuit has been discharged at the High Court after the foreperson told the judge they could not reach a decision.

At around 7pm on Friday night, the foreperson said there was no progress being made, and Mr Justice Michael O'Higgins thanked them for their service and excused them from jury service for five years.

It was the seventh day of the case and the jury began their deliberations at around 2:45pm on Thursday.

The case was brought by John Bowe (41), who was arrested following the chase, which occurred outside Bunclody, Co Wexford, on December 5th, 2014.

Mr Bowe, of Coolnaleen, Camolin, Enniscorthy, was subsequently convicted of various counts of dangerous driving arising from the chase.

Mr Bowe, an ex-garda, brought the action over alleged injuries sustained when Supt Rory Sheriff, then of Enniscorthy Garda station, struck Mr Bowe over the head with a retractable baton following the chase.

Supt Sheriff said that his actions were "proportionate and justified" following what he described as the most "extreme and dangerous" driving he had ever witnessed.

A barrister for Mr Bowe had told the jury he doesn't want to live in a country where people take the view that his client "got what was coming to him".

Supt Sheriff told the court he was chasing Mr Bowe through a field after a 25-minute car chase that hit speeds in excess of 140kph.

Supt Sheriff had said Mr Bowe turned back on him with a "metallic object" in his hand and lunged at him. The Supt then deployed his baton and hit Mr Bowe over the head "with full force, as hard as I could hit him", he said.

The metallic object Mr Bowe had in his hand turned out to be a set of keys with two bottle openers attached.

It was Mr Bowes case that Supt Sheriff  then a sergeant  wrongfully and violently struck him. Mr Bowe claims that arising from alleged injuries sustained, he was diagnosed with functional neurological disorder. The claims are denied

Mr Bowes case was against Supt Sheriff, the Garda Commissioner, the Attorney General and Ireland.

At the High Court tonight, Mr Justice O'Higgins adjourned the matter to the next list to fix dates and said the jury process, even if it finished in deadlock, was as important as if it resulted in a unanimous or majority verdict for either side.
Eva Osborne

Three women and two men have been arrested after gardai seized 2.1 million worth of drugs in Dublin and Wicklow.

Personnel attached to the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau conducted search operations at residential addresses in the Dublin and Wicklow areas on Thursday.

During the course of the operation, which was conducted with the assistance of the Ballymun and Balbriggan Drug Units, 98kg of cannabis and 2kg of cocaine  with a combined estimated street value of 2.1 million  were seized.

The five people were arrested and are being detained at Garda stations in the Eastern region.

A man in his 40s is being detained under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act 2007.

Three women (one on her 40s and two in their 30s) and a man in his 30s are being detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 1996.

Gardai said investigations are ongoing.
Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with special responsibility for Horticulture, Michael Healy-Rae TD, hosted and co-chaired a Horticulture Industry Forum grower meeting for the sector at Backweston Campus.

Welcoming a large turnout of horticultural growers to this open meeting of the Horticulture Industry Forum, the Minister commented: I am delighted to host the first Horticulture Industry Forum growers meeting since the HIF was established in 2014.

"The HIF meetings are important for the sector, and I wanted Irish horticultural growers to see first-hand how the forum operates and to enable them to meet directly with their sectoral representatives. This meeting allows growers share their experience on challenges and opportunities for their business.

The Minister added: Today is about active networking, engagement and discussion on real issues, as well as providing an opportunity to engage directly with my Department and other players in the sector.

Opening the event, the Minister reaffirmed his commitment to the sector with the welcome announcement of the opening of the Horticulture Innovation and Diversification Schemes for 2026.

The Minister stated: My Department, in collaboration with stakeholders, continues to drive the vision set out in the National Horticulture Strategy for a more profitable, value-added sector driven by sustainability and innovation.

"The opening of the 2026 Horticulture Innovation and Diversification Schemes demonstrates Governments commitment to the horticulture sector and the vision for it.

During the meeting, growers were given updates from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, the Irish Farmers Association and Bord Bia. Growers also received a presentation on the midterm review of the National Strategy for Horticulture 2023-2027, which will be published later this year.

The Minister also noted: This meeting marks an important milestone in the implementation of the National Strategy for Horticulture 2023-2026. Tremendous progress has been made in all areas, and I am delighted to say that we are on target to reach a farmgate value of 688 million in 2027.

The Minister welcomed the continued engagement of all stakeholders and growers in the implementation of this strategy and invited grower feedback on the mid-term review of the strategy through their sector representatives or direct to the Department by email to horticulturestrategy@agriculture.gov.ie.

As part of the implementation of this Strategy, the Minister also informed growers on the planned establishment of a Horticulture Education Leadership Group (HELG) and the appointment of a chairperson to take forward the excellent progress that has been achieved under Key Strategic Action 4 on the Review of Horticulture Education.

Concluding the meeting, the Minister thanked growers, stakeholders and sector representatives for attending and for their engagement and positive dialogue during the event.
Waterford gardai have issued advice following the theft of a laptop from a vehicle at Claremont on the Cork Road this week.

Gardai say that a silver HP laptop was taken from the vehicle during the night of November 10 and 11.

A garda spokesperson said: Advice for people is to ensure your vehicle is locked and to have a find my device app/program set up for your device. We have successfully retrieved items this way previously.
Waterford gardai are investigating the burglary of a house in the Johns Park area of the city last weekend.

Two e-bikes were taken from the house at Lower Grange in the early hours of Sunday, November 9.

One e-bike is a Samebike I026, described as dark blue with red rims.

The other is also a Samebike, but black.

Anyone with any information on this incident should contact Waterford Garda Station on 051 305 300.
Waterford College of Further Education held a very successful open day recently that was very well-attended.

Waterford News & Star photographer, Joe Evans was there to capture images of those in attendance.

Photos will also appear in the forthcoming print edition of the newspaper.

Photos of other events are also available to view here on the website under the 'Archive' section.

Volume two of the nostalgic photos collections from our archive, titled 'Colourful Memories of Waterford', will be officially launched in the book centre this month and copies of both volumes will be available at The Book Centre, in-store or through or office on Gladstone Street.

Hard copy prints of photos are also available to buy through our office.

Gabriele Tereraite with Stitch in the Dog Grooming class at WCFE.

Mei, Hairdressing and Barbering QQI Level 5 at WCFE.

Students, Charlotte, Heather and Michaela, at the WCFE Open Day Art Class.

Zoja and Zhanna, Travel & Tourism class at WCFE Open Day.

Computer Systems and Network tutor, Pierce Fewer with Youth Reach students, Joe and Tommy.

Bernadette, Gracie, Mia, Niamh and Emma, in Nursing Studies and Health at WCFE.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Balgaire holds deep significance in Scottish culture as a name derived from the Gaelic word for fox. In traditional Scottish folklore, the fox represents intelligence, adaptability, and survivalqualities highly valued in the challenging Highland environment. The name was historically given to boys believed to possess sharp wit and strategic thinking, often in families where hunting or tracking skills were important. During the Jacobite era, the name became associated with cunning resistance fighters who used guerrilla tactics against larger English forces, much like the fox outsmarting larger predators.



In clan traditions, naming a child Balgaire was thought to bestow the animal's legendary cleverness and ability to thrive in difficult circumstances. The name appears in various Scottish ballads and folk tales, often given to characters who overcome challenges through wit rather than strength. This cultural association made Balgaire a name of both practical and symbolic importance throughout Scottish history, representing the ideal of the clever underdog prevailing against more powerful opponents through intelligence and strategy.
World-renowned, Waterford-based surgeon Dr Morgan McMonagle is to close the South East Science Festival with a talk on his work in conflict zones.

At the event in the auditorium at SETU on the Cork Road on November 18, at 7:30pm, Dr McMonagle will discuss his work in Gaza from which he has just returned.

South East Science Festival spokesperson Eoin Gill said the event will give the public a rare, first-hand insight into life as a trauma surgeon in many of the worlds most volatile war zones and the added pressure that brings.

Morgan McMonagle studied medicine at UCD and also trained in Australia, the US and the UK.

"He has used his skills in conflict zones, recently receiving widespread media attention around his several missions in Gaza.

"Were honoured and privileged to have him as our final speaker on this years Festival programme.

Shortly after qualification, he moved to Australia, working in helicopter rescue environments.

"Following this, he trained in general and vascular surgery in the UK, where he operated on many young soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan with gunshot and shrapnel injuries.

Since moving to Waterford, he has served in the West Bank, Ukraine, Lebanon and several recent missions to Gaza.

"On one occasion, the hospital he was working in was bombed.

"Because journalists were not allowed into the conflict zone, the accounts of humanitarians like Morgan became very important and received widespread international attention.

Were honoured that he is part of the South East Science Festival programme and we could think of no better speaker to have to close what has been a phenomenal festival this year with an estimated 6,000 people attending events across three counties, said Mr Gill.

The event is free, but booking is essential.

The South East Science Festival programme for 2025 ran from November 8 and is funded by Research Ireland and run locally by CALMAST, the South East Technological Universitys STEM engagement centre.

Science Week events have been taking place across pubs, restaurants, libraries, theatres, schools and community hubs across Waterford city and county, Clonmel and Carlow.

Organisers say attendance was significantly up on last year.
A 21-year-old Waterford man assaulted his mother and hurled abuse at a Garda, a court has heard.

Kyle Hanrahan, of 103 Farran Park, Waterford City, appeared via video link at Waterford Circuit Court before Judge Eugene OKelly. Garda Lorraine ODwyer told the court that she arrested Hanrahan at his home on June 24, 2024.

He committed criminal damage by kicking the glass door of the home. He hit his mother on the face with a closed fist, causing her to fall down. Gardai observed red marks below her eye, cheek and chin. It is understood Hanrahan drank an entire bottle of spirits on the day and was heavily inebriated. He was conveyed to Waterford Garda Station but was unfit for questioning due to intoxication. When later asked about the criminal damage, he told Gardai: "I can't remember, I probably did it."

'High-risk'

The Court heard that Hanrahan had 37 previous convictions related to theft, assault and public order offences. Defence counsel Gareth Hayden BL said that Hanrahan had remorse for his actions and has struggled with alcohol. His probation report put him at a "high-risk" of reoffending.

Judge O'Kelly imposed a headline sentence of two years and six months for the assault, with the final year suspended for a period of 18 months. Hanrahan was ordered to have "meaningful engagement" with the Probation Service both during and after his imprisonment.

Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme
A wreath-laying ceremony was hosted yesterday at the statue of Luke Wadding OFM.

The ceremony was to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the founding of St. Isidores College, Rome, which was founded by Waterford-born Franciscan Wadding in 1625.

The ceremony, led by Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan, recognised Wadding as one of Irelands most influential theologians and historians.

Born in Waterford in 1588, Wadding was a scholar of international renown.

A Franciscan priest, theologian, and historian, he founded St. Isidores College as a centre for Irish Franciscan learning in Rome.

It remains a cornerstone of Irish religious and cultural heritage to this day.

It was also Wadding who first proposed that March 17 be observed as a feast day in honour of St. Patrick, Speaking on the commemoration yesterday, Mayor Ryan said:

Luke Waddings life and legacy reach far beyond his work in theology. He shaped how Ireland remembers itself, how we celebrate faith, scholarship, and culture.

It is fitting that Waterford, his birthplace, should pause to honour him on this historic anniversary. Representatives from local heritage, academic, and faith communities joined the Mayor for the wreath-laying event at the Luke Wadding statue on Greyfriars, Waterford.

The Waterford City and County Council event coincided with a similar remembrance at the college in Rome.
What have we learned from the funding of our airport? In general, we were simply played by government and the Dept. of Transport. There was never any real willingness to fund our airport and despite the protestation of ministers Butler and Cummins and the inclusion of the project in the Project for Government, we never had the political power to push it over the line.

All the talk about business plans and procurement process was simply a means to an end, to squeeze the life out of the project by kicking it down the road until investors get tired of waiting.

Minister Butler said that the Dept. believed we should have no more airports as if that was a sufficient reason to accept a refusal for anything.

Minister Cummins went on about price increases and procurement plans until peoples eyes glazed over.

By failing to provide matching funding for access infrastructure with real possibilities, government has demonstrated an antipathy to our aspirations. Thus far and no further?

It is ever thus. The (still unfinished) quest for 24/7 cardiology was replete with suggestions that such a facility is not needed here or that expansion of existing centres (Cork) was the solution.

Progress is only made through dogged persistence and public protest. Anyone paying attention to national health politics will have seen the comments from Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill that the major voluntary hospitals in Dublin (St Vincents, St James, Mater etc), which are funded by the state through the HSE but administered by very independent boards, must be brought under HSE funding management.

Remember the chairman of St Vincents in 2014. We are swinging around to compliance with pay rules? It's amazing how existing providers in medicine and education jealously guard the status quo.

In chatting about our airport, the subject of a full university and a UHW medical school emerged. Why is the latter deemed to be yet another something that we should not aspire to while the existing providers are expanding?

It is not part of any strategic aspiration or request by SETU, indeed one gets the impression that it is almost something not to be talked of or raised in polite company.

20-odd years ago Maynooth College was slightly smaller than WIT. Along came instant university status, courtesy of Minister for Finance Charlie McCreevy, and an almost unstoppable succession of new buildings, course and student number expansion.

There is no major hospital in Maynooth, yet it opened a new school of nursing last July, showing again the ability of universities operating under traditional legislation to act swiftly.

Simultaneously, while new nursing courses were being allocated to colleges around the country, SETU received the lowest number. SETU has been allocated new Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy schools but physical development of new buidings is a long way away.

Funding has been provided to develop new facilities to the planning permission stage. Having endured 20 years waiting for a new engineering building on the Cork Road, now under construction, I wont be holding my breath.

UHW has benefitted from increased staff numbers over the past few years as its status as one of nine national Model 4 hospitals seems to have finally been noticed. Capital investment has begun to arrive, albeit slowly.

If there was a coherent regional development plan, if all the bits fitted together, UHW would obviously be designated for at least a graduate entry medical school.

UPMC, which offers radiotherapy at Whitfield, already has two large private hospitals in the region and would surely contribute to a medical school and already operates such schools (Pitt Med) elsewhere.

UHW as a tertiary hospital has a rapidly growing consultant body with all the necessary specialties and necessary facilities, and already teaches a quota of young UCC medical students. There is a very large Royal College of Surgeons education facility on site and there was a hope some years ago that the RCSI would greatly expand it to form a nascent medical school, but instead they concentrated on their Dublin facility, which has gained independent university status.

We constantly hear it said that staff recruitment to UHW can be slow despite its excellent (and growing) reputation. It is quite obvious that a medical school would add enormously to the attraction of the hospital.

The benefit for students in the southeast who wished to follow a medical career would be huge and would also create, over time, a body of medical expertise nationally and internationally who would be interested, as they are in Cork, Dublin and Galway, for example, in returning to their own city or region. The benefits for smaller model 3 hospitals in Clonmel, Kilkenny and Wexford in using a hub and spoke medical training scheme with UHW would be very worthwhile, and contribute greatly to the attraction of the south east region for foreign direct investment.

It should be remembered that the population of this country has almost doubled in the past 50 years. This is not the country of scarcity of the mid-20th century. When the government spends vast sums on new facilities at SETU and UHW, however slowly, then surely there should be a plan to maximise on that investment?

Unfortunately, everything seems to be compromised by politics, medical and educational. Government promises that SETU would have a professorial structure and independent capacity to borrow for development, as Maynooth and all legacy universities are constantly doing, have gone unfulfilled.

There is growing dissent across the Tech Uni sector that its creation from a series of merged and disparate entities was quite unplanned and little more than a cost-saving measure. There is growing unhappiness from students in the Tech Uni sector that government has not delivered on its promises.

Waterford has sought university status since the mid-1930s. SETU, in its present manifestation, is an incomplete entity, despite promises of game-changing scale and investment.

Pharmacy and Vet medicine are welcome additions, but a graduate medical school, as a start, would be the real statement of intent that would copper-fasten and unite many strands of government regional and educational policy. All the pieces of the puzzle necessary for a medical school already exist in Waterford. If the will was there!
Bob Murphy, a Waterford and Kilkenny based artist, has launched an exhibition of his paintings at the Index Gallery, Waterford City Council Central Library, Lady Lane, Waterford city.

The exhibition in support of Solas Cancer Support Centre opened on Wednesday, November 5, and runs for two weeks during library opening hours.

Bobs journey in art has been lifelong.

He explains: "How I got into painting was by chance after many years. I have always liked painting as I did it going to school and did art for my leaving cert and got on well.

"When I left school, I promised myself that someday I would take up art again by chance as I had been mentioning to my family that I liked art. My wish came true when my sister-in-law Mary Butler gave me a present of an art painting kit using acrylic paint.

I have now been painting for over 20 years.

He began attending art classes once a week, and has continued to do so over the years.

While I am good to work nights on my own, I find the classes are really helpful and keep you focused, he said.

Bob's work includes landscapes, animals, ships and some portraits.

He says he has been guided along the way by teachers such as Alfonso Santini, Fergus Dillon and Jon ODonovan.

"I think it is also worth mentioning the people who have helped me on the way. My thanks to Alfonso Santini who initially helped me to get used to using acrylics and guiding me with the initial paintings.

"Then I had Fergus Dillon who sadly passed away a few years ago. I have always been impressed by his collection of watercolours of Waterford.

"Currently I am attending classes with Jon O'Donovan, who has helped me develop my skills with colours, shades and visual of paintings."

The public are invited to view Bob's exhibition, a comprehensive showcase of his work for the last number of years, at the Index Gallery Central Library, which is ongoing until this Wednesday, November 19.
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BusinessCompaniesHealthcare Opinion More casualties expected as ailing Healthscope prepares for sale Colin Kruger Senior business reporter November 15, 2025  2:00am

November 15, 2025  2:00am Save 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

If there is one thing Healthscopes lenders and landlords can agree on, it is that the operator of 37 private hospitals  a vital part of Australias health infrastructure  remains on the sick list with many of its hospitals unable to pay their bills in full. Financial numbers which have surfaced in the media show that 23 of these hospitals with private landlords are losing a collective $100 million a year. Healthscope boss Tino La Spina is leading a bid to buy the hospital group and turn it into a not-for-profit operator. Stephen Kiprillis It is no coincidence that the hospitals under the microscope are the ones where the land was sold off  and where the hospitals are paying rental rates which do not match the post-pandemic reality of the sector. That is a big problem as the receivers appointed to sell the business  on behalf of lenders owed $1.7 billion  prepare to receive final offers for Healthscope this month.

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The scenario is not dissimilar to when Canadian financial giant Brookfield surrendered control to lenders in March. State and federal governments will once again be preparing to pick up the pieces if the sales process fails to find buyers for all the hospitals, leaving Healthscope centres around the country facing closure. Healthscope boss Tino La Spina  who is among the bidders with a plan to make the hospital operator a not-for-profit  offered a brutal summation to his employees in September when he said the receivers had no other bidders for the entire business. Some hospitals have received significant interest while others have received no meaningful interest. This means that Healthscope would be broken up, with hospitals sold to a mix of for-profit and not-for-profit buyers. Some hospitals could be stranded without a buyer, he said. The lenders are not expected to get all of their money back, and extinguishing their interest bill will help alleviate one of the most significant burdens. But the size of their losses depends on the final sale price for Healthscopes assets, and that partly depends on how much pain landlords are willing to absorb to help make the hospitals viable. Healthscope wrote to landlords last month, on behalf of the receivers, suggesting significant and permanent rent reductions. Hardball tactics could include withholding future rent if a suitable deal is not agreed to.

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Healthscopes troubled Northern Beaches Hospital was the first to go but private buyers are expected to cherry-pick other hospitals. Renee Nowytarger Most of Healthscopes original lenders have already absorbed significant losses after selling their share of the loans to so-called vulture funds earlier this year at as little as 42c for every dollar of debt owed by Healthscope. Unlike the original lenders  which include some of Australias Big Four banks  these opportunistic investors can actually make a lot of money if the receivers pay out as little as 50c for every dollar owed. In contrast, the original lenders like Commonwealth Bank face a loss if they are paid less than 100c in the dollar for their loans. The sale of Sydneys Northern Beaches Hospital to the NSW government, yielding $190 million, is a sign of just how quickly lenders can recover their money with one or two big deals where Healthscope still owns the land and hospitals. It has been suggested that Healthscopes Gold Coast hospital is one of three operations that could find buyers this month at a similar price tag. So it is easy to see why Healthscopes biggest landlords, ASX-listed Healthco and Canadas Northwest, are fighting back against this suggestion that they need to tear up their rental contracts to fatten the returns for these new lenders.

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The Healthscope properties form a large part of Healthco and Northwests asset base and any rental backdown would deliver a severe blow to their respective investors. Healthco  backed by rich lister David Di Pilla  acquired 11 of the Healthscope hospital properties in 2022 for $1.2 billion. Di Pilla did not get his reputation for being one of Australias most astute corporate deal-makers for nothing. So, it is no surprise that a recent announcement from Healthco explicitly demonstrated how strong its position as landlord is. Related Article Healthcare As suitors circle Healthscope, its management mulls a different path As previously disclosed, the Landlords have entered into conditional agreements with alternative tenants for all the 11 hospitals owned by the Landlords (Conditional Agreements). The Conditional Agreements include detailed commercial terms which are acceptable to the Landlords, the ASX update this month, said. The clear message to lenders was that Healthco has been able to come to terms with other hospital operators with a deal that makes the hospitals viable. The statement does not explicitly say this involves a rent cut.

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It explains why the receivers paid up all the back rent owed to Healthco and Northwest until the end of this month to keep them onside as the sales process enters the final stage, and hopefully finalise a fresh rent deal. But landlords have pointed to the recent financial numbers made public by the Australian Financial Review also suggest that head office costs at Healthscope, and the multimillion-dollar monthly bill for advisers, would also go a long way to making the group viable again. For their part, the receivers and lenders would be hoping that, it is one thing to threaten to evict Healthscope as a tenant, it is a much tougher ask to actually hand it over to another private hospital operator and keep it running as a significant part of Australias health infrastructure. Everyone is just watching now to see who caves, and whether it is enough to save all the hospitals. Otherwise, taxpayers will be the ones picking up the pieces of a private hospital business that went horribly wrong. The Business Briefing newsletter delivers major stories, exclusive coverage and expert opinion. Sign up to get it every weekday morning.
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The Paley Institute announced in August that Al Muderis was joining its team, a self-styled orthopaedics powerhouse which employs 29 surgeons and 310 people to treat patients from more than 100 countries.

It is a subsidiary of Tenet, a Wall Street-listed healthcare juggernaut that provides resources to 640 hospitals and clinics across America and reported quarterly profits of $US3.9 billion ($5.94 billion) in April.

The billboard is promoting the Paley Institute, a global clinic selling highly complex orthopaedic clinical services around the world.

More than a dozen surgeons are photographed in a row, smiling with their arms crossed  including, on the very end, Australian surgeon Munjed Al Muderis.

Patient referrals from 50 states & 110 countries, the back-lit banner reads. You Deserve The Best Care, Too!

This masthead can also reveal details of several lawsuits against Paley and the Paley Institute in America in which patients complain of invasive, unnecessary and rushed surgeries that have gone wrong, including one on a 10-year-old child who was allegedly permanently disabled and a man who died on the operating table. Al Muderis is not involved in any of those cases.

Those fears echo some of the findings in a Federal Court of Australia judgment in August which found Al Muderis surgical practice was unethical and negligent and that he prioritised fame, money and numbers over the safety and care of his vulnerable patients.

Australian surgeons and experts have expressed alarm over these plans, fearful of importing an American-style approach to private sector healthcare of high-pressure sales tactics that drive unnecessary and expensive surgeries.

This vision reflects my ongoing commitment to delivering world-class orthopaedic and reconstructive care locally, and to ensuring Australian patients benefit from the most advanced global surgical innovations.

One of my longer-term plans is to bring the Paley Institute to Sydney, he wrote to doctors in a September letter, obtained by this masthead.

It proudly claims that its 15,000 hotel room nights generated a year makes it the worlds largest medical tourism orthopaedic group. Now Al Muderis plans to bring the company to Australia.

The Paley Institute website and social media pages are plastered with glowing patient testimonials (which are legal to provide in America but not in Australia), where Paley is called the man of miracles and bone wizard.

Like Al Muderis, Paley has passionate supporters online and an expansive network with decision-makers. In 2013, he was photographed with now US President Donald Trump and Ben Carson .

Al Muderis, Paley and the Paley Institute did not respond to requests for comment.

Dror Paley is the face of the company and known globally for pioneering limb-lengthening surgery, in which bones are broken and regrown using nails or rods to increase height for medical or cosmetic reasons, including controversially for people with (achondroplasia) dwarfism.

The Paley Institute has gained global recognition, and celebration in some quarters, for its innovative surgical techniques for children and adults suffering limb deformities.

If you want corporate American, profit-generating medicine, said one surgeon working at a major Australian childrens hospital who did not want to be named because the plans had not been made public yet, this is what the Paley Institute will bring. Its a corporate medicine approach.

The Paley Institute promises everything and operates on everyone, he said. Its so easy to have a kid with a horrible disease and say, Were going to do this and fix it.

The Australian paediatric surgeon said Paley had done some incredible work but warned there is little oversight or long-term research into some of his procedures, which he believes should be performed only in clinical trials.

The Paley Institute has also been the target of several recent medical negligence cases and Paleys limb-lengthening system was recalled globally in 2021 after patients reported nail corrosion caused metallosis, organ damage and toxicity in the blood stream.

Across press interviews, Paley has railed against bureaucracies preventing innovation in healthcare and is celebrated for inventing medical devices for limb-lengthening.

Children and young people unable to walk or affected by severe deformities regain function and mobility after his surgeries.

When a case seems hopeless and there is no longer any hope, only one name remains: Paley, the last resort, the final hope, one such testimonial on the website states.

We have become the worlds largest orthopaedic medical tourism centre in the world, Paley said. This is such an important technology, and there are so few surgeons doing this and why not get the best?

At the launch celebration, Paley praised Al Muderis for being absolutely recognised as the number one in his field.

As Al Muderis has been fighting several lawsuits in Australia  from the failed defamation battle against this masthead to medical negligence cases brought by his patients  he has expanded overseas, opening the Al Muderis Osseointegration Clinic in Abu Dhabi in July in collaboration with the Paley Institute.

We need innovation, he said. But not in a profit-driven business, not for medicine. Because then [patients] get the kinds of things outlined in court by Al Muderis.

Ian Woodruff, president of the medico-political organisation Doctors Reform Society, said importing the Paley Institute could fuel the huge profits of Australias private healthcare system.

Shortly afterwards, on August 8, the Federal Court of Australia delivered the 771-page judgment that found Al Muderis downplayed risks of surgery, made false promises, mistreated staff, had poor patient selection and negligent after-care for a significant cohort of patients.

Two weeks later, the Paley Institute announced on social media that Al Muderis had formally joined the ranks of its Florida operation to continue pushing the boundaries of whats possible in orthopaedics.

As Paley promotes medical tourism and recruits surgeons from around the world, he has also fought his own battles.

Medical negligence lawsuits are not uncommon, particularly in the US, but claims examined by this masthead raise allegations of high-pressure sales tactics and devastating consequences for patients and their families.

In one lawsuit before US courts this year against Paley and other doctors, documents obtained by this masthead allege that botched surgery left a 10-year-old girl with mental pain, scarring, disfigurement, permanent injury, loss of bodily function and the capacity for enjoyment of life.

The documents outline the girls consultation with Paley on October 31, 2022, when it is alleged he said she needed to undergo a surgical procedure for limb-length discrepancy NOW and the parents agreed for Paley to perform the surgery.

But on the operating day, the parents were told another surgeon, Claire Shannon, would conduct the surgery despite not having spoken to or examined the patient.

The parents were informed that Paley would be popping in but court documents allege he did not show up and the new doctor failed to appreciate the childs anatomy and caused a life-threatening injury.

A timeline included in the statement of claim details the childs alleged post-operative experience, where she woke up with 10/10 pain and was provided fentanyl to doze back to sleep but woke within five minutes again complaining of 10/10 pain.

She was given more rounds of fentanyl, but kept waking up with the same level of pain and crying, so was given oxycodone and a muscle relaxant causing her to go back to sleep.

After the surgery, Paley and Shannon flew to Warsaw for the grand opening of the Paley European Institute so were unavailable to care for and/or treat the child for any surgical complications, according to the documents.

The patient was discharged but continued reporting agonising pain as well as severe cramps, despite being prescribed Valium then morphine by the Paley Institute before needing further surgery.

The case alleged Paley was negligent because he agreed to examine, diagnose and treat the minor, and had a duty to exercise with professional standards of care.

Dr Paley was careless, negligent and breached [his] duty by failing to plan, treat and perform the surgery, then respond to severe pain complaints, resulting in significant injuries resulting in permanent disability, the complaint document filed in US courts states.

Paley and the other defendants have denied the claims. A settlement was reached for some of the allegations, but the matter remains ongoing, according to documents.

Another case was brought against the Paley Institute in October by Mohamed Yakout over a limb-lengthening surgery from 2022 that allegedly went horribly wrong.

Court documents allege the 30-year-old presented with mild limb-length discrepancy but was given an unnecessary and invasive and complex limb-lengthening procedure without proper investigation, explanation of risks or discussion of conservative alternatives.

The Paley Institute surgeon allegedly failed to diagnose a deep infection until many months after the surgery despite Yakout showing symptoms, the documents state, which caused permanent and catastrophic injury, pain and mental anguish after the surgery failed and the hardware was removed.

A third case detailed in court documents was brought against the Paley Institute and other parties in July by Florida resident Sandra Freia. She alleges doctors negligently performed a high-risk and elective spinal surgery on her husband, without proper investigation, which resulted in his death on the operating table on August 7, 2023. The parties deny the claims and the matter is continuing.

A separate Florida-based medical negligence firm this year posted social media advertisements soliciting patients harmed by limb-lengthening procedures performed at the Paley Institute.

The law firm, Freedland Harwin Valori Gander, said it represents numerous patients of the Paley Institute that have undergone unnecessary or failed surgery.

We limit our practice to catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases, the law firm claims.

The Paley Institute criticised these posts publicly, accusing the firm of ambulance chaser behaviour.

This masthead interviewed two lawyers from another US firm, who could not be named for confidentiality reasons, who alleged the Paley Institute is a surgery mill where profits influence decisions.

This is about the consolidation  within the healthcare system to the detriment of patients, one lawyer said, who could not be named due to client confidentiality.

The lawyer said the Paley Institute is a symptom of a much bigger problem in US healthcare, where corporate structures drive unnecessary surgeries and patients suffer physically and financially.

Theyre going to have some patients that are going to get good treatment, but its the unnecessary procedures that are being done on patients thats generating a lot of money for Tenet, he said. Its all about volume. Theres a big incentive to upsell.

Tenets most recently quarterly report states it spun $US2.4 billion in profits from its operations business (out of $US3.4 billion total profit) which included 65,902 surgeries across its network of hospitals.

University of Sydney law health expert Chris Rudge said negligence claims were not necessarily an indicator of poor practice, and even good doctors may face several lawsuits over their career because surgery is dangerous.

However, Rudge is concerned about importing US culture and business practices in healthcare.

Youre effectively importing not just a service but a whole business, he said. Its the American-style consumer pays, consumer risks model.

Toxic chemicals

Al Muderis has been promoting cosmetic limb-lengthening in Australia this year, described as booming in a recent Mamamia article.

He is quoted as claiming the controversial procedure was increasingly popular among women, to address confidence and bullying and improve chances of career success.

When you look at psychological history, you see a lot of short people get bullied at school, Al Muderis said. Its much harder to bully a taller person.

Paley has helped refine the procedure by designing new nails to reduce recovery time.

The procedures popularity surged this year after the Hollywood film The Materialists featured a main character who underwent the surgery.

The Paley Institutes website describes Paley as the worlds most experienced limb-lengthening surgeon having performed more than 20,000 surgeries over 30 years.

Paley is credited for bringing the Ilizarov method to the west, a Russian technique for increasing height by attaching a metal brace around the limb to pierce wires through the skin to break and regrow bone over several months.

The Russian technique for stretching limbs seen here in a Chinese clinic. AP

Surgical nails have been an alternative to the Ilizarov method since the 1990s where large nails are inserted into the bone and external remote controls or magnets move the nail externally to cause fractures, eliminating the metal cage and associated infection risks.

Paley invented the Stryde Nail with manufacturer Nuvasive in 2018, which used stainless steel instead of titanium, allowing heavier patients to weight-bear immediately after surgery.

A 2020 research paper by Paley stated 106 patients had been implanted with this system since May 2018, more than half of which were cosmetic.

Successful outcomes were achieved in all patients, the paper stated. There were no issues related to biological incompatibility.

However, behind the scenes, trouble was brewing.

American patient Alyssa Osos was implanted with the nail in 2018 after which she experienced heavy menstrual bleeding and reproductive organ pain, according to court documents, and an ultrasound found a large cyst on her right ovary.

Promotional material depicting the use of the Stryde nail developed by Dror Paley.

She would end up suing Nuvasive for negligence, alleging the device generated chromium toxicity or heavy-metal poisoning which caused these injuries before it was recalled. US court documents in that case allege X-rays discovered leftover fragments around the implantation site and surrounding tissues.

Three follow-up appointments revealed that Osos suffered from toxic chemicals in her liver, bone damage to her tibia, and chromium toxicity in her blood, the documents state.

In its defence, Nuvasive argued none of Osos smattering of random facts are tethered to any legal cause of action and unsuccessfully tried to get the case thrown out. Nuvasive and Paley did not respond to questions about this case.

The first Stryde nail used in an Australian patient was implanted in June 2019 at Macquarie University Hospital and the Limb Reconstruction Service.

We look forward to helping many other patients with this emerging technology, the centres website published on 8 July 2019.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration started receiving adverse reports related to the nail from March 2020. A year later it was formally recalled and is no longer used in patients.

There are nails produced by other manufacturers that do not cause these side effects.

The TGA did not recommend removing the Stryde devices, but said pregnant patients or those under 18 years should be monitored and further testing for carcinogens and toxicity would be completed.

There are 11 reports lodged on the TGAs adverse events database related to the Stryde nail and system between March 2020 and May 2022, with reports describing findings of significant corrosion, metal on metal wear and metallosis  a condition where metal debris causes tissue damage and other problems.

The UK regulator released a notice in January 2021 that claimed the long-term safety of the Stryde devices remains unknown, and the manufacturer had failed to adequately assess for safety.

Several biological endpoints have not been adequately assessed and others have failed to be considered, including chronic, reproductive and developmental toxicity, and carcinogenicity, the UK regulator stated.

In a YouTube interview in March 2021 with limb-lengthening influencer Cyborg 4 Life, Paley said the recall was voluntary after a British doctor had reported a patient whose tissue around the implant looked like a rusted iron.

Everyone is freaking out over this but I want to reassure everyone  corrosion from stainless steel is not new, he said.

Its not the first implant... It may be one of the first thats been recalled. But many implants have corrosion before... I dont think its caused serious harm the odd patient may get a little symptomatic.

Healthcare regulators pledged to review Augusts Federal Court judgment against Al Muderis, which he is appealing, but no action has been taken, and he retains full operating rights in Australia. According to social media posts, he is currently in Florida but will return to Sydney to see patients in January.

Still, Rudge said Al Muderis foray into limb-lengthening procedures raised issues.

Its not particularly inspiring to learn that another seemingly risky procedure is the next step for a surgeon who has faced scrutiny.

Macquarie University Hospital, which is named on Al Muderis letter to GPs outlining his Paley Institute plans, said the surgeon remains on indefinite leave.

Macquarie University Hospital has not been informed of plans by Dr Al Muderis to bring the Paley Institute to Sydney, it said in a statement.

Quality and safety standards are applied to all procedures at [Macquarie University Hospital], including limb-lengthening and other orthopaedic procedures, and we have nothing to report relating to this type of work.

Nuvasive and Tenet did not respond to requests for comment.

Charlotte Grieves book Duty To Warn will be available in February. Pre-order here.

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NationalWABushfires A decade on, the sight of smoke still brings back terrible memories of Esperance fires Michael Philipps November 16, 2025  2:00am Save 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 0 Leave a comment

A decade after one of WAs deadliest fires, the sight of smoke rising from the distance brings back memories for Esperance locals of the terrible events in 2015 that claimed the lives of four people. The Esperance fires are considered among the most devastating in the states history, responsible for the deaths of local farmer Kym Curnow, 45, Norwegian student Anna Winther, 29, British man Tom Butcher, 31, and German woman Julia Kohrs-Lichte, 19. The Esperance fires are considered among the most devastating in the states history. Only the Willow Springs/Nannup fire of 1958 is considered comparable in terms of loss of life, when four people were also killed. According to a Department of Fire and Emergency Services report, the fires were ignited by lightning on November 15 and fuelled by catastrophic wind conditions.

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The burn zone consisted of three separate areas; the Cascades fire that destroyed roughly 128,000 hectares, the Merivale fire that burnt around 18,000 hectares and the Cape Arid complex that covered 164,000 hectares. On November 17, the Cascades fire was estimated to have reached a fire intensity of 45,000 kilowatts per metre at its leading edge. According to the DFES report, it was thought to be the hottest grassland fire in WAs recorded history. As the bushfire season approaches ... when people are harvesting, it is something which makes people take extra care. Shire of Esperance President Ron Chambers It was that day when the four deaths occurred. Tom Butchers car was found on Grigg Road near Scaddan where he and his two passengers, Julia Kohrs-Lichte and Anna Winther, had died trying to transport a horse to safety from a nearby farm. Earlier, volunteer firefighter and local farmer Kym Curnows car had been found just 300 metres away, where he had crashed into a tree in what was believed to be an attempt to escape the fire.

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By the time the fires were brought under control, 19 properties had been lost  including three homes  30,000 hectares of crop and 4500 heads of stock had been destroyed, and there had been significant damage to public infrastructure. Related Article Tragedy Forever broken: Family of volunteer firefighter who died fighting Esperance blaze speak out Victoria Brown was the Esperance shire president at the time and recalls the enormity of the situation. I remember stepping out of council chambers in the early afternoon, having been inside in an air-conditioned, windowless room to see this black sky, sort of backlit with orange and the atmosphere was so eerie, she said. It was still ominous. It felt threatening, and it felt like the oxygen was being sucked out of the air as we stood there. I have never experienced the atmosphere of that day or the colour of the sky.

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Brown said another vivid memory was the response from the local community. We always think that we live in a very special community down here in Esperance, geographically, we are cut off from a lot of the state, so we have to be pretty self-sufficient, she said. We had people who were sitting up all night monitoring phones. We had the Shire CEO pull in all his staff to make sure that everybody that might be in the fire path was contacted and told to evacuate. We had the usual people saying, What can we do? How can we help? Do you want food? Do you want clothes? All the community wanted to do was help. Current Shire of Esperance President Ron Chambers said the loss of the four lives had impacted the local community.

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Thats something that I have talked about and discussed on a reasonably regular basis, whenever anyone sees the smoke go up, he said. In a relatively small community like Esperance, the significance of an event like that has a huge impact. Kym Curnow, Thomas Butcher, Anna Winther and Julia Kohrs-Lichte were killed in the Esperance fires. As the bushfire season approaches, and we are sort of there at the moment, when people are harvesting, it is something which makes people take extra care. Chambers has been a member of the local Quarry Road Bushfire Brigade for nearly 20 years and previously served as captain of the unit. He said there had already been a number of fires this season in the region.

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We went into prohibited fire season as of midnight [Tuesday] night. Weve had two fires down here (Wednesday), we had a fairly big one up north about a week and a half ago, and that was a fire that they went into the bush, he said. By the time the fires were brought under control, 19 properties had been lost So, its certainly going to be a danger after the reasonably wet winter that weve had. I think its certainly really highlighted the dangers of it. I believe that some of the changes that have been made, especially around training. Were better prepared nowadays.

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The shire is holding a memorial on Monday at the Jetty Headland to commemorate the events from a decade ago, and to remember the loss of the four people who died. Chambers said he understood some of the victims families would be attending. It is also an opportunity to thank our volunteers, their professionalism, their ability and the determination in which they look after our community, he said. Brown said the idea of the remembrance on Monday was one of acknowledgement, not only of those who lost their lives, but to also recognise the volunteers and those who were there to aid the community. I remember saying on that terrible day when the families arrived in Esperance, I said to them at the time, You can rest assured that your childrens names will always be spoken here. They will always be remembered here, and you will always be welcome here, she said.

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Weve kept in touch with Tom Butchers family and Annas family, who live in the UK and in Norway. We actually went and saw Toms mum on her farm in Wales when we went back to the UK for a holiday a couple of years ago, and it was lovely to sit in her farmhouse, talk to her about her dog, look at her sheep, and just do normal things. So whilst on Monday, we will all gather to reflect on the tragic deaths. We will also be renewing friendships. Get the days breaking news, entertainment ideas and a long read to enjoy. Sign up to receive our Evening Edition newsletter.

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Perth Michael Philipps is a producer and reporter with WAtoday.
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PoliticsFederalThe Dismissal Opinion I was 23 when my hero cancelled me, I taunted a prime minister, and played dumb with a spook Sally Gibson Writer November 16, 2025  2:00am

November 16, 2025  2:00am Save 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 104 View all comments

It was largely because of this masthead that the sacking of the Whitlam Labor government 50 years ago was coined The Dismissal. And also partly that the miniseries of that name ever came about. I was 23 years of age and working as a special writer on The Age under the inimitable Peter Smark and editor Creighton Burns when the phone rang from Sydney. It was an acquaintance, the late Byron Kennedy, who I knew through 3AWs producer of the Derryn Hinch show, Terry Hayes, and who himself was the producer of the hit film, Mad Max. He was calling to see if I was interested in working on an idea that he and his partner, George Miller, had for a miniseries on the sacking of the Whitlam government. Former Age reporter Sally Gibson asks the then-prime minister Malcolm Fraser about the last book hed read, at a book fair in December 1980. The Age Byron and George had recently completed Mad Max 2 and had the funds to invest in some passion projects, and as a Melbourne boy, Byron was an Age reader.

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We noticed an article you did in The Age, Byron said. It was about a prostitute and you wrote it in screenplay form with dialogue. Indeed, I had recently finished an article for the-then features editor, Eric Beecher, spending a week with a prostitute in one of Melbournes notorious unlicensed massage parlours. Id phoned a service advertised in the local rag and asked the owner for permission to shadow one of its sex workers for a week. In a dingy one-bedder in Dandenong Road, St Kilda East, I followed one of his girls and, to disguise my identity from the Johns, played the receptionist, greeting clients and taking calls when the girls were busy in the bedroom. Given the obvious drama in such a story, I wrote it as a three-act play. Byron continued: Were thinking of making a miniseries on the sacking of the Whitlam government. Would you like to write a three-page outline for a pitch to television? Would I ever! Id been a uni student doing honours in political science when Kerr did the unthinkable. Six years later, my rage had not abated and I leapt at the offer: I was keen to help Australians understand the full play of the politics that led to what I now believe was a coup detat rather than just a day-to-day tabloid story of loans affairs and sex scandals.

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The Channel 10 board apparently prevaricated over the appetite of Australian audiences for a political drama before giving it the green light and I was offered a five-week contract in Sydney to research the six-hour show, though I knew it wouldnt be enough. When Id first joined The Age in 1980, I had sought opportunities to express my rage, as Gough had advised. On one occasion I was assigned to cover a book fair where then prime minister Malcolm Fraser was officiating and discussed with the chief of staff my idea of asking Fraser what was the last book hed read. This was an insulting trope of the times suggesting the person was ill-read but disguised as an innocent question. Photo: Matt Davidson When I came up behind the PM and put my question, he turned around and, more than twice my age and at least a foot taller, dressed me down. And the lightning-fast Age photographer captured it. Now, it was November 1981, and the Kennedy-Miller miniseries had to be in the can by the following June to meet the governments new tax concessions for film and TV investment. I worked every day and night for eight months as I forensically examined books, news clippings, TV footage, Hansard, and interview material, weighing up the most likely scenario for the 300-odd scenes necessary and then co-writing the script with Terry Hayes leading.

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I was an extra in the critical last scene of the show when Whitlam marches through the doors of Old Parliament House to deliver his formidable Kerrs cur speech, which I can still quote word for word. In finally watching the whole show for the first time last weekend, I saw my young self with a pixie haircut right behind Max Phipps, after which the show cuts to the original footage. Related Article The Dismissal A huge mistake that changed history: Whitlam failed to tell the right people hed been sacked While the show was in post-production, I returned to journalism and, according to Terry, it was he who came up with a range of titles for the show, including the one that was accepted: The Dismissal. Disappointingly for me, the screening was delayed as Channel 10 did not want to be seen to be influencing the next federal election due to be fought by Fraser. In the end Bob Hawke won and the show was put to air on the three nights that followed, and was a smash hit in the ratings. I wonder now, had Fraser won that election, if the show would have ever been aired.

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Nevertheless, the most shocking event in Australian political history, henceforth, became known by the name of our miniseries, which is regularly cited among the best Australian TV shows of all time. Many of the actors were reputedly happy to work for free because they recognised the series significance. One of the directors said, wisely at the time, that none of us would ever work on anything like that again. He was proved right  though I did go on to have my own interesting government career, and a political campaign as an independent candidate. The most fascinating aspect of the project for me was at the start of my research. When word got out, I was phoned by someone introducing themselves as from the prime ministers office. Another tall, intimidating bloke, twice my size in both directions  who struck me more as an intelligence officer  arranged a cafe meeting with me near the studios in Kings Cross and tried to grill me ever so slowly on the tenor of the show. I kept my cool and played dumb while assuring him we were aiming for a balanced portrayal of events. He scheduled a second meeting closer to the completion of the shoot, where I reiterated my reassurance. In the end, the feedback from all sides was positive.

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Through the show, I was fortunate to get to know the cream of Australias directorial and acting talent from Bill Hunter (Rex Connor) and John Stanton (Fraser) to John Meillon (Kerr) Max Phipps (Whitlam), Robyn Nevin (Lady Kerr) and Ruth Cracknell (Margaret Whitlam) as well as directors Phil Noyce and George Ogilvie, among many others. The research took me into the minds of the key personalities; it was a rabbit hole that threatened to devour me given its import and social magnitude. Journalist Sally Gibson found herself co-writing TV mini-series The Dismissal in the early 80s. Fairfax Media Early in my research, I tried to secure an interview with each of the key players. I had come upon Whitlams home number and braced myself to call him from a landline under the stairs of my Glebe share house. How dare you call me on my private number! he boomed down the handset. But, but, but ... youre my idol! Yes, my all-time hero had cancelled me, for which my body still keeps the score. Related Article Political Sketch

The Dismissal The Dismissal: Norman Gunstons moment, while a boy got high on a king The next day, from his work phone, he denied me an interview to protect his legal rights to sue for libel should he be seen to be collaborating with the show. Yet in releasing his dysregulated emotions upon me, Gough told me all I needed to know about the impact of his personality on the proud John Kerr.

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However, my view was, and firmly remains, that Kerr was 100 per cent in the wrong. By taking such a monstrous affront to Whitlams treatment of him, Kerr himself lost everything, and we all lost the integrity of our polity. My rage only expands as the years go by. Sally Gibson is a journalist and was researcher and co-writer of The Dismissal. She appears this week on a special edition of the Truth Lies and Media podcast. The Opinion newsletter is a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up here
Individuals named Banning typically exhibit a strong, determined character marked by resilience and principled conviction. The name's meaning of 'son of the slayer' seems to influence perceptions of these individuals as natural problem-solvers who confront challenges directly rather than avoiding difficult situations. They often possess innate leadership qualities and a protective instinct toward those in their care, making them reliable in crises and steadfast in their commitments. Their determination is usually balanced by a strong moral compass, leading them to champion causes they believe in and defend those who cannot defend themselves.



In interpersonal relationships, Bannings are known for their loyalty and depth of commitment. While they may appear reserved initially, they form deep, lasting bonds with those who earn their trust. Their combination of strength and principle often makes them sought-after advisors and confidants. However, their strong-willed nature can sometimes manifest as stubbornness when they believe they are in the right. Despite this potential for inflexibility, most Bannings learn to balance their convictions with empathy, developing into well-rounded individuals who use their natural strengths to support and protect their communities while remaining open to growth and new perspectives.
She concedes that it sounds absurd, but for teenagers born around the time Snapchat was founded in 2011  the first generation raised in a world where social media is ubiquitous  snap streaks are just another part of their elaborate online lives. They keep up with pop-culture trends on TikTok and with each others adventures on Instagram. Its where they discover new hairstyles, music and recipes  a creative outlet and a place for community.

When we meet on the Monday at the beginning of their digital detox, the stress of lost streaks is on Maisies mind. So much so that shes ended a bunch of them early to stop the bombardment of notifications when she returns to the apps. Its made her reflect on her social media habits. I realised when I was losing my streaks that I had a bunch of 50-day streaks with people I dont know, who were just sending me photos of the ground.

Losing a snap streak can be a big deal. Teens who know they wont be able to use the app for a few days will often ask their friends to log in and do their streaks for them. They might pay Snapchat a few dollars to recover lost ones. Maisie recalls asking her parents to break the night-time lock on her phone when shes been too stressed to sleep because she hadnt snapped someone back. Flora describes it as a feverish panic. Genevieve likens it to waking up and remembering an assignment is due. Its that kind of stress, she says. Youd have to quickly log on and check it all and be like: OK, I can go about my day now. 

Maisie, Flora and their friends Anik Louw and Genevieve Rutledge  Canberra teenagers aged 14 and 15  are all about to lose their snap streaks. Theyve agreed to forfeit social media access for five days during the October school holidays in an experiment for Good Weekend .

Streaks are like a stupidly big thing for our generation, Maisies friend, Flora Peatling, explains. If you dont snap someone back, the app pings your phone, warning youre about to lose your streak. The other person will keep snapping you too, to try to keep it alive.

Its been 300 days since Maisie Mooney started exchanging photos with another teenager on Snapchat. They havent missed a day. Sometimes they send pictures of their faces, or their friends. More often, though, its something mundane. Like a picture of concrete, or the floor. Theyve never met in person, but theres a niggling anxiety that keeps Maisie engaging in the daily back-and-forth with this stranger. Its the pressure of the snap streak.

Maisie Mooney at home with her dog Milo. Her parents got her to delete TikTok after her daily screen usage soared from 30 minutes to three hours.

I got to work early and didnt know what to do because i normally do my snaps. i am now on my break and didnt know what to do so i am writing. i am really bored because idk what to do. i feel a little bit of FOMO coz i dont know if people are messaging me, also a little bit of anxiety coz idk if the snaps r important or if i am really missing out on something.

When I got home...i went to do my snaps and scroll, when I couldnt i grabbed my ipad and started watching tv. while watching tv i wanted to do my snaps. when i couldnt i felt a little weird, like when you know you had homework to do but cant remember what it is. i continued to watch tv till i needed to get ready for work.

If youre not posting stories then you start thinking, Oh people must think Im not doing anything, and Im just sitting at home bed-rotting for the whole holidays,  says Maisie, while Flora is worried about losing contact with people. But when I think about it, the people who care about you can still call and message, Flora says. So Im excited to not put my energy into: Lets see what this person Ive never talked to is doing for their school holidays.  Their biggest fear is boredom. Or as Anik, who spent 27 hours on social media the previous week, puts it: Not knowing what to do with your brain.

These four girls have agreed to a trial ban so they can share what it might feel like for the close to a million Australians between 13 and 15 (as of the 2021 census) who are the focus of the new rules. And they have their reservations.

That world will be switched off when Australia becomes the first country to ban young teenagers from social media next month. On December 10, eight major platforms  Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, X, Reddit and Kick  will be required to boot under-16s off their apps and show how theyre trying to stop them from joining up again or risk fines of up to $49.5 million. Other popular apps such as Roblox and Discord are exempt for now, but the list will be dynamic.

Yet for todays 13- to 16-year-olds, who are still in the thick of things, its a tough sell. Some of Inman Grants biggest critics are closest to home. Our video call is interrupted when the commissioners 13-year-old twin daughters come to the door. She invites them into the frame to share their thoughts.

Inman Grant has been persuaded by the testimonies older teenagers gave during the eSafety Commissions consultations  stories of bullying, leaked intimate photos, intense online entanglement and incessant pressure to have the perfect body, the perfect holiday, the perfect family, the perfect life. I think about that a lot, says Inman Grant. I was able to screw up a lot when I was a teenager, and it wasnt filmed with my humiliation amplified online.

Australias eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, is the person tasked with making it work. Shes keen to frame the policy as a social media delay rather than an outright ban. The idea is to defer the point at which kids take up social media, so that todays 10- to 12-year-olds dont have grounds to hassle their parents for at least another few years. Were trying to put friction into a system where none has existed, Inman Grant says. One of the huge policy intents of this is to create a normative change.

Parents want to get their kids off their devices and onto the playing fields. They want children to be able to enjoy their childhood, and that is what this is about, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, a few months before spruiking the policy at the United Nations. Alongside him in New York in September was Australian mother Emma Mason, whose teenage daughter died by suicide after being bullied online. Jurisdictions including the European Union say theyll be closely following what happens next.

An eSafety survey reports that 96 per cent of 10- to 15-year-olds use social media, and seven in 10 have seen harmful content online, such as misogynistic material or posts that encourage unhealthy eating habits. Half have been cyberbullied and about a quarter have been sexually harassed.

Australias social media ban is being promoted as a new weapon for parents whove been losing the battle to keep kids off screens. The case for action is best summed up in Jonathan Haidts 2024 book The Anxious Generation , which argues that smartphones and social media have rewired childhood away from play and led to a rise in mental illness. Six months after Haidts book shot up bestseller lists, the Albanese government became the first in the world to announce a social media ban.

Some parents make that case as well. Monique Taylor and her 12-year-old daughter, Bronte, live in a small town half an hour from the NSW border town of Albury. Bronte uses TikTok to make fan videos of Taylor Swift and deepen her passion for Greek mythology. Nobody else at her school shares those interests. Shes a country kid. There are other kids that do it because theyre skateboarders and no one else in the town they live in skateboards, so they film videos and send it to other people, Taylor says. Thats where they feel free and brave to be who they want to be.

Inman Grant politely ends her daughters interrogation, but many Australian teens would raise the same grievances if given the chance to debate the eSafety Commissioner one-on-one. Our young peoples side of the story isnt being seen, or its just being ignored, says 14-year-old Ananya Sharma, one of several teenagers Good Weekend spoke to about the ban. Social media doesnt have as much of a negative impact as its perceived to have.

They cant imagine how these needs will be met without social media. The questions keep coming, too. How are you going to stop real-life bullying, then? Taking away school?

We already do that, her daughter says. Everyone already does that. But it helps us connect to people overseas, because how are we supposed to do that now? How are we supposed to meet people? Where am I supposed to watch my celebrity crush at? How can you get inspiration?

Social media is not this benign thing that is full of joy and wonder, he says. It actually has some fairly negative sides to it and in some cases can be quite devastating.

Andrew Neal, the principal of Bacchus Marsh Grammar School in Victoria, has watched social media infiltrate the lives of school children throughout his 28-year career, including at its worst, when 50 teenage girls at his school had their likeness used in AI-generated nude photos uploaded online  also known as deepfakes. The girls moved on from that harrowing experience with remarkable grace, he says, but it was a wake-up call about how vulnerable they are online.

Flora describes a similar experience, of opening the app to look for a recipe and finding shes still there hours later, the algorithm leading her down disturbing rabbit holes: get toned with me; this is how you get thin; this is how you lose weight. She started going to the gym, then after a while thought, I wont eat. She says, It really impacted my mental health and body image badly. When I took a step back, I realised, This is clearly not healthy, whats the main cause? And then I pieced together that it was my Instagram feed. By hiding video after video, Flora cleansed that content, but there was no easy way to opt out.

Thats familiar to Maisie, whose parents got her to delete TikTok after her daily screen time soared from 30 minutes to three hours. You just get stuck scrolling and you dont really want to do anything else, she says. I feel like the phone sometimes controls me.

But for all the caveats, her concerns about the persuasive and pernicious design embedded in social media apps persist. She describes gamified features such as snap streaks and addictive elements like the endless scroll as powerful forces that kids cant see, let alone fight against.

Inman Grant is conscious there are kids who feel more themselves online than they do in the real world, particularly from diverse, disabled or LGBTQI+ communities. Its a way to find their tribe and really be themselves, she acknowledges. I want to make sure this is not something that cuts off their digital lifelines.

Neal doesnt think stripping access to apps will completely transform the teenage experience. The problem of adolescence  which is dealing with how you fit in, how you work with other people and what your personality is  is still central to teenagers developing and becoming adults, he says. Social medias role is to magnify all the worst aspects of that time  the insecurities and doubts. The genie is out of the bottle, he says. But the ban adds another armament, or arrow, to reducing the impact on kids.

Tuesday: Floras diary

6.30am: Woke up and went to check Insta. Got pretty frustrated because I couldnt look. Got extra sleep cuz I didnt get woken up from phone.

8.30am: Got anxious so checked Reddit msgs and logged out right after. Frustrated Im not doing better. Hard to stay away when the apps are right there.

Nobody knows exactly what to expect come December 10. Thats because the government has told the tech platforms to decide how they detect underage users and delete their accounts. The eSafety Commission has requested data on how many under-16s are on their platforms  Snapchat, for example, has given an early indication that 440,000 under-16s use its app. On day one, eSafety will be looking for evidence those accounts have been removed. Well check after a week, well check after a month, and then well have periodic check-ins, Inman Grant says. Well be looking at systemic failures rather than a few individual accounts being missed here and there.

Insights into how the tools will work can be gleaned from a government-sponsored trial that, earlier this year, tested 60 age assurance tools from 48 companies. Some tools guess a persons age using face scans, others by assessing hand movements.

When St Marks Anglican Community School in northern Perth was invited to be part of the trial, principal Steven Davies took the opportunity to see what it was all about and was surprised to find 400 families volunteered. Years 7 and 8 students were given short tasks to perform to test different age-assurance technologies. Some were closer than others, says Davies. Sometimes they predicted they were 18, so they could have easily got on, and some were closer to their actual age, which would have prevented them. The kids were quite amused.

Teenagers online are already bragging about how they will get around the ban by supplying their parents information, wearing masks or logging into virtual private networks (VPNs) to obscure their location. Inman Grant intends to stay a step ahead of them: she notes that its pretty easy for tech firms to detect when someones using the address of a well-known VPN, for example, and that the new rules will require these companies to be on the lookout for workarounds.

Some privacy experts and academics also think the ban is unworkable, citing concerns about the extent of biometric data that will be held by tech platforms, and the fact that age assurance technologies have been proven to be less reliable for people with darker skin tones. Inman Grant concedes shes not expecting perfection. Still, theres a chance the ban will be more robust than many teenagers think: these are companies whose billion-dollar business models rely on pinpointing their users personal interests to serve content and sell ads. And they have the resources: Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg has reportedly given a $US250 million ($380 million) four-year contract to a single AI researcher, while the office of the eSafety Commissioners entire budget is $254 million for the same period. Inman Grant says shes been told by TikToks chief executive that the app can detect a childs age in three seconds using a combination of AI profiling, inference models and third-party verification tools. If thats the case, hundreds of thousands of under-16s will find their accounts gone next month.

Anik Louw, who spent 27 hours on social media the week prior, says the biggest fear of what to do without it is not knowing what to do with your brain. Rohan Thomson

Tuesday: Aniks diary

Im bored and rlly just feel like scrolling. I dont feel like FOMO or left out Im just rlly BORED. I might go and watch TV bc im kinda bored of games now. I was definitely bored a lot today but I also think that games definitely dont get you hooked in as much as social medias personalised feeds and videos that are specifically generated for short attention spans like teenagers nowadays.

We should acknowledge that this is going to be difficult for those families with teenagers between 13 and 16 that already have social media, says clinical psychologist Dr Brad Marshall, director of Sydneys Screens & Gaming Disorder Clinic and an adjunct fellow at Macquarie University. He says 1 to 2 per cent of teenagers experience extreme screen addiction, while about one in 10 demonstrate heavy smartphone use. Those at the pointy end might experience withdrawals: irritable moods and emotional dysregulation. There could be some behavioural lashing-out, anger outbursts, some verbal conflict. You might see them socially withdraw, or take a bit of a stand, he says. But I dont believe the average parent is going to see significant withdrawals in their kids.

He has two expectations. First: that teens will try and find a way around the ban, especially heavy users. Second: that theyll move to other platforms. If teens migrate to messaging apps or email, Marshall thinks that will be a win  theyre less addictive platforms. Were not asking them to go back to sending letters via Australia Post, he says, comparing todays public anxiety to the hyped debate two years ago around school phone bans, which are now commonplace.

There were a lot of opinions, worried that it would isolate kids. If you look at the research, none of that happened, he says. Most studies indicate there were improvements in behaviour, or in social interaction at school. Did some of them get around it by putting a fake phone in the pouch, and staff were too burnt out to pull them up? Sure. But youll find many of them  not all of them, but many  enjoy that because it means theyre all forced to communicate face-to-face or play a game or sport.

Social pressure drives thousands of children to social media. According to eSafety research, in 80 per cent of cases, eight- to 12-year-olds who had social media accounts had help setting them up. Usually, that help came from parents or carers. Why? asks Inman Grant. Because they dont want their kids to be excluded.

The children Marshall does workshops with say theyre aware the apps want to suck them in. They understand the impacts on their schoolwork, on their emotions, on their sleep. And its not enough for them to actually make the decision [to stop using it], because the social isolation part is what they fear, he says. I think there are going to be many kids that are relieved they dont have to be on there anymore.

The hope is that a social compact, where all teenagers are in the same situation, will make it easier. Its also what compelled Maisie, Flora, Genevieve and Anik to agree to this experiment. They say they wouldnt have done it alone  the FOMO would have been too great.

Instead, at the start of the week, we delete the apps together before the girls go about their lives. Quickly they encounter a difficult  and annoying  adjustment period. They keep picking up their phones by instinct, only to realise they cant open the apps. The absence of messages and notifications feels eerie, and their inner voices say no one really wants to talk to me. They go to other screen-based activities to fill the void  games, music, FaceTime and online shopping  but frustration mounts.

By Wednesday and Thursday, however, they notice changes. Genevieve spends her first lunch break on her shift at McDonalds voluntarily cleaning the restaurant, because she doesnt know what else to do. At the end of the week, she takes herself for walks. That definitely made me feel better, because I was going outside and in the sun, she says, and nor is she checking her phone as constantly. I was really happy about that because I felt much more independent.

Anik, having spent almost three hours playing phone games on Tuesday, arranges a bunch of extra catch-ups with friends. I replaced interacting with people online with hanging out with people in real life, she says. It was definitely more fulfilling.

Floras screen time goes up  she spends longer on FaceTime calls  but she also plays the piano for the first time in four years and does some writing and walking that she wouldnt have otherwise. I feel very cleansed and a lot calmer, honestly, because theres not so much content and opinions and news and updates from random things being thrown in my face.

Maisie, meanwhile, gamifies her struggle with compulsion. She starts a tally for every time she picks up her phone only to find nothing there, which is when the FOMO arises. In the afternoon when I had to take the dog for a walk, I counted. If there were five tallies, Id take him for half an hour, but if it was over five, Id take him for an hour.

By Friday, her knees are sore because her walks have tended towards the longer side. Still, she chooses to walk even further, accompanying her mum to work in the morning instead of staying home because she feels less attached to her devices.

After a few days without social media, Genevieve Rutledge spent a work lunch break voluntarily cleaning for the lack of anything else to do. She also went for walks Rohan Thomson

Wednesday: Genevieves diary

In the morning, my mum and I completed errands, which I would normally not participate in doing. It was really nice to spend time with my mum and I found that my sense of time kinda got messed up because we had done so much in so little time. I didnt think of going on socials all morning.

Schools will play their part in preparing students. Davies, the St Marks Perth principal, is conscious that kids will need strategies to stay socially connected without the apps. Every school provides great opportunities for kids to get involved in the life of the school and get involved in groups with others. Perhaps schools might re-emphasise those opportunities. But Neal, the Bacchus Marsh Grammar School principal, isnt anticipating the school environment will suffer a huge shock, given so many have put phone bans in place. Schools have effectively got out of this space, he says. The key to this is going to be parents, because in reality, its them who will have to impose the ban.

Parents will fall into the same divides that exist with issues like alcohol, Neal predicts. There will be some for whom this is a thank god this happened. There will be a small group who think its an outrage, and my child should be able to do what they like. In a sense, thats an age-old fight. Some parents will help their kids evade the new rules or give them access via their own accounts.

Under a Facebook post sharing a list of five ways families can prepare their kids for the ban, one parent comments: Id prefer a list of five ways to bypass it. A parent who speaks to Good Weekend anonymously says thats what they intend to do so that their child stays connected to family and friends overseas. There must be hundreds of families like ours that will set up new accounts for them so they can keep using some platforms, they say. The blanket ban does not consider any individuals situation or needs. Those kids who are using it responsibly will be isolated from perfectly normal daily dialogue.

Inman Grant says a monumental change is coming for young people. December 10 is right before school holidays, so people will be leaving and they might not feel that sense of connection, she says. Her advice to parents for the next month starts with weaning kids off early. If a child is spending six hours a day online, she suggests trying to get it down to five hours the next week, then four, then three. Download their memories and photos. Get contact details for their friends and set up a group chat, and bookmark websites of their favourite influencers. You can say, Hey, we dont actually have to wait for Snapchat to delete your app  well wean you down and then we can do it together,  she says. So start the chat, delete the apps.

Im definitely not excited for the ban, but I dont feel Ill be like, Oh my god, this is the worst thing in the world.  Anik Louw

Thursday: Genevieves diary

I kinda forgot to journal this day, which I will take as a good sign. I was pretty busy with friends and work  both of which organised to take my mind off socials or being bored. The only time that I thought of going on my phone was when I was in a long queue and felt VERY Bored. Other than that, I think I had improved a lot since day 1 and 2.

The girls say theyre feeling refreshed when we meet on Friday to debrief. The last few days, while frustrating, havent been as tormenting as they feared, and Anik is now much less nervous about the looming date in December. I mean, Im definitely not excited for the ban, she says, but I dont feel Ill be like, Oh my god, this is the worst thing in the world. 

None of them have come to the revelation that they should ditch the apps of their own accord. Quite the opposite  a big part of whats got them through the week is counting down the days, knowing that its only temporary. Genevieve is still baffled theyll be kicked off the apps, only to get social media back when they turn 16. But I get why theyre doing it. And I think we can skip the starting patch of boredom and get straight into improving the habits we started this week.

Those habits, which they want to keep, include scrolling less, putting their phone away after replying to messages and not using their screens as a backup every time theyre bored.

When I check in over WhatsApp two weeks later to ask how thats going, the girls tell me their screen time shot up as soon as they got the apps back. But Genevieve has since set her own access limits to bring it back down, Maisie has removed a bunch of contacts she doesnt know on Snapchat and Anik says shes making more of an effort to hang out with friends more and be in the moment, if that makes sense? Flora is feeling less of a pull from the incessant pings, banners and red badges that come up on her phone.

I think Im definitely less obsessive and focused on social media, I have noticed Im checking it less and not noticing notifications as much, she says. I would be a lot more bitter and unmotivated if it was permanent, but I think honestly it wouldnt be a terrible thing. Its really made me realise: Oh yeah, you are addicted to your phone and the rush you get from notifications  Youre wasting so much time giving your energy to people that youve never even seen, why? So its been a really good eye-opening experience, and I

honestly think it would be beneficial to the majority of people.

To read more from Good Weekend magazine, visit our page at The Sydney Morning Herald,The Age and Brisbane Times.
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InspirationGermany Seven highlights you need to see at Berlins notorious wall Kate Armstrong November 15, 2025  2:00am Save 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

Seven wonders within the Berlin Wall Between 1961 and 1989, the German Democratic Republic constructed, fortified and guarded the 155-kilometre Berlin Wall, a concrete behemoth that cut the capital in half and separated its citizens. It was a symbol of the Cold War and the division of Germany. 1 Brandenburg Gate The landmark Brandenburg Gate. Nowhere represents Germanys division and unification like this landmark, a large neoclassical monument, topped by a chariot driven by the goddess Victory. Spanning Unter den Linden boulevard, its history traverses Prussian royalty, the Nazis, the walls construction (that rendered the gate to no-mans land), and then-US president Ronald Reagans appeal to his Russian counterpart, Mikhail Gorbachev, to tear down this wall. Many images capture the moment when, on November 9, 1989, framed by this monument, Germans celebrated on the wall.

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2 Berlin Wall Memorial The commemorative Bernauer Strasse strip of the Wall. By its geographical fate, Bernauer Strasse divided East from West. These days, for 1.4 kilometres along this street, a range of instalments document locals experiences, and plaques indicate many of the tunnels and events here. A memorial displays photos of individuals who were shot, drowned or fell from buildings. From the tower of the Berlin Wall Documentation Centre, you can view a reconstruction of the border installations, complete with watch tower and the death strip thats sandwiched between two barriers; altogether this was The Wall. 3 East Side Gallery The socialist kiss.

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On November 9, 1989, German Democratic Republic minister Guenter Schabowski mistakenly announced that a border crossing would open effective immediately. Thousands rushed there, overwhelming guards. The wall was dismantled the following year, except for a 1.3-kilometre section which is now the mural-rich East Side Gallery. One of the most famous features GDR leader Erich Honecker and the Soviet Unions Leonid Brezhnev, locked mouth-to-mouth. This socialist fraternal kiss was a common practice in communist countries. 4 Keiler Eck Memorial (former GDR border troop command post) The wall and one of the many watchtowers. Guenter Litfin was the first person to be fatally shot at the Berlin Wall when, on August 24, 1961, he tried to flee East Berlin by swimming across the Humboldthafen harbour. A watchtower, one of 32 command posts that oversaw border troops and organised patrols, commemorates his death. On Saturdays, you can climb the tower to get a sense of what life was like for those guarding, and those being watched. 5 The Reichstag Building

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The restored Reichstag is the seat of parliament once again. Bloomberg A symbol of unity and democracy, the Reichstag Building is the seat of the German Bundestag, Germanys federal parliament that returned to Berlin in 1999 (the city was reinstated as Germanys capital in 1991). The renovations by British architect, Sir Norman Foster, include a massive glass dome that provides a 360-degree vista of the city, as well as a birds-eye view of the plenary chamber below (you can tour for free; reservations via bundestag.de). 6 Checkpoint Charlie The restored Checkpoint Charlie. Wolfgang Scholvien Photograph The border crossing between the American sector and Soviet-controlled East Berlin was the site of many important events, including the confrontation between US and Soviet tanks in 1961 that nearly led to World War III. These days, the site  guard house, sandbags and signs in the US sector (all replicas)  has been reduced to a popular instagrammers prop. The best part is the outdoor exhibit nearby where the historical photos and narratives provide an excellent potted history of the wall.

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7 Berlin on Bike  Berlin Wall and Cold War Bike Tour Berlin by Bike and the Brandenburg Gate. Related Article Germany I tried to get into Europes most notorious nightclub (and failed) While you can do the tour on your own, a great way to visit landmarks along the wall is on a tour with Berlin on Bike. You can choose from different wall-related themes. Knowledgeable guides describe the context and background to the major points, from the walls no-mans land (the death strip) to guard towers. Along the way, note the double line of cobblestones. These follow the exact route of the former wall. The writer was a guest of Visit Berlin. See visitberlin.de/en

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Berlin

Europe Travel writer Kate Armstrong divides her time between the US, Mexico and Europe exploring places and subjects that spark her interest: culture, cuisine, cruises and anything offbeat. She usually travels solo.

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Reviews & adviceSavvy traveller Is China still cheap to visit? Yes, if you dont make these mistakes Brian Johnston November 15, 2025  2:00am Save 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

Prices have risen in China over the last few years and if youre checking into big-name hotels, eating fancy Chinese meals or any Western ones, and haunting hip nightclubs, then youre in for a shock. But China doesnt have to cost a lot. The biggest mistake is to stay at familiar international hotels, because youll usually get a better deal with Chinese brands. Most are reliable and many new; the only caveat might be that beds are harder than you may be used to, and youll get Chinese breakfasts. As soon as Western food and fluent English-speaking staff appear, prices rise. Photo: Greg Straight At the budget end, look for 7 Days Inn, Home Inn and Jinjiang Inn; for mid-range GreenTree Inn and Days China Inn; and at the upmarket end Jinjiang and Wanda hotels. Beyond the chains, many individual Chinese-owned hotels are perfectly fine.

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I did a search on trip.com for two nights in Chengdu in mid-October and found a Chinese hotel priced at $101 compared to a western-branded hotel at $230. Both had the same customer rating. Incidentally, international hotels in China are good value compared to those in other countries, so you can enjoy luxury on a relative budget. Shangri-La Chengdu costs $393 and Ritz-Carlton Chengdu $536 for the same period. Hotels in secondary cities like Chengdu are cheaper than Shanghai or Beijing. iStock Between cities, take a high-speed train rather than flying  its cheaper and most likely faster, when you factor in airport connections. AP Hotels cost more in Beijing and Shanghai and dip significantly in second-tier cities such as Chengdu and Xian, so plan your holiday accordingly.

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Timing is everything. Hotels cost less in the off-season (November to March), and the most in July and August (anyway, a frightful time weatherwise), as do full tours booked from Australia. At all costs avoid Chinese New Year and other Golden Week holiday times. Metros are the way to get around cities. Theyre efficient, fast and easy to work out. A single-journey ticket costs less than CNY10 ($2) and the value on a day or week pass is even better. Local buses are cheaper still, but can be difficult to navigate. Between cities, take the train rather than fly. Trains are usually cheaper and often faster if you factor in airport locations and check-in times. A second-class ticket on a high-speed train can be as little as CNY520 ($110) from Beijing to Nanjing, for example, which is a 1040-kilometre journey. Related Article Asia We thought travelling in China would be a breeze. We were wrong Consider sleeper trains if you really want to save on hotels, with prices such as CNY607 between Shanghai and Guilin (1520 kilometres).

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Dine like a local and youll never spend much. You can dine on street food for small change, in modest local eateries for under $20, and in mid-range restaurants for $50. Avoid Western meals, those in posh corporate-oriented restaurants and any seafood. Dont assume upmarket restaurants offer better meals; many provide over-elaborate, overpriced fare. Price isnt that reliable an indicator of meal quality in China. Youre likely to eat better in modest restaurants or even noodle shops, especially ones well-known for a few special dishes. If everyone is eating the same thing, tuck in too.

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Individuals named Barakah are often perceived as having a calm, grounded presence that brings comfort and stability to those around them. They tend to possess an innate sense of gratitude and appreciation for life's blessings, which manifests in their generous and compassionate nature. These individuals are typically seen as peacemakers who can diffuse tense situations with their wisdom and patience. Their spiritual depth often makes them reflective and thoughtful, with a strong sense of purpose in their actions.



Barakahs are known for their reliability and consistency, making them trusted friends and confidants who others naturally turn to for guidance and support. They often exhibit a quiet strength that inspires confidence without being overbearing, and their presence is frequently described as having a calming, positive influence on their environment. While they may not seek the spotlight, their contributions are often foundational to the success of group endeavors, and they derive satisfaction from seeing others thrive through their supportive efforts.
Individuals bearing the name Bates are often perceived as practical, grounded, and reliable with strong family values and traditional outlooks. They tend to be hardworking and methodical in their approach to life, reflecting the name's agricultural origins and connection to the earth. Many Bates are known for their loyalty and steadfastness, often serving as pillars in their communities and maintaining long-standing relationships. There's frequently an undercurrent of quiet strength and resilience, with the ability to endure challenges through patience and perseverance.



While sometimes reserved in new situations, they typically demonstrate deep care and commitment to those they trust. The name suggests someone who values stability and continuity, often excelling in roles that require consistency and attention to detail rather than flashy innovation. This practical nature is balanced by a capacity for deep thought and reflection, particularly regarding family heritage and personal values. The Christian association brings elements of faith and moral conviction, often manifesting as strong ethical principles and a sense of duty toward others. These personality characteristics combine to create individuals who are both dependable anchors in relationships and quietly influential in their chosen fields.
People named Bede typically exhibit a blend of intellectual curiosity and spiritual depth that reflects the name's historical associations. They are often characterized by their methodical approach to problems, their love of learning, and their ability to see patterns and connections that others might miss. Their contemplative nature makes them excellent at tasks requiring patience and attention to detail, though they may sometimes struggle with rapid decision-making or highly emotional situations. Bedes tend to be loyal friends and dedicated professionals who value substance over appearance.



In relationships, Bedes are known for their consistency and reliability rather than dramatic gestures. They form deep, meaningful connections based on shared values and intellectual compatibility. Their spiritual orientation often manifests as a strong ethical framework and concern for social justice, though they typically express these values through quiet action rather than public demonstration. While they may not be the most outgoing individuals in social settings, their wisdom and integrity often make them sought-after advisors and confidants. The combination of scholarly inclination and spiritual sensitivity gives Bedes a unique perspective that balances rational analysis with compassionate understanding.
Individuals named Benroy are often perceived as possessing natural leadership qualities and inner strength, reflecting their name's meaning of 'son of a lion.' They tend to demonstrate courage in facing challenges and exhibit protective instincts toward those they care about. Typically confident and assertive, Benroys often take initiative in group settings and are respected for their determination and resilience.



Their lion-like nature manifests as loyalty to family and friends, combined with a regal dignity in their personal conduct. While they can be dominant in personality, they usually balance this strength with compassion and a strong sense of justice, making them natural protectors and advocates for others. Many Benroys develop a reputation for reliability and the ability to remain calm under pressure, much like the majestic animal their name references. This combination of strength and sensitivity often makes them effective in leadership roles where both authority and empathy are required.
A new building for outdoor staff at Mayo County Councils Ballinasmalla Depot, at Castlegar, Claremorris, has been given the green light.

Head of Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District Padraig Flanagan told councillors at last week's monthly meeting that existing facilities for outdoor staff are very basic.

Cllr Richard Finn supported the proposal, saying: This will help bring us into the modern age. Staff have not had a proper base up to this and the new facilities will mean they can come and go and have all the services there that people in this modern age want.

Cllr Finn added that Claremorris is in dire need of the development, which will be a great addition to the town as well as the council.

It will enhance existing facilities which are dated and make it more environmentally friendly and also take some Mayo County Council traffic from the town. We must make life a bit easier for our working and outdoor staff. There have been no objections raised and this will bring all the machinery and rolling stock and materials together with the staff facilities, making it a significant milestone for this municipal district.

Patsy OBrien seconded the proposal and it was approved by all members.
Reading, PA (19601)

Today

Partly sunny, windy, and cold with wind chills in the teens and 20s all day. West winds will gust 25-35mph. A few lake-effect snow showers are possible north of I-78 in the afternoon and evening, especially in the Poconos. .

Tonight

Partly cloudy, cold, and brisk. Wind chills in the teens overnight.
Allentown, PA (18103)

Today

Partly sunny, windy, and cold with wind chills in the teens and 20s all day. West winds will gust 25-35mph. A few lake-effect snow showers are possible north of I-78 in the afternoon and evening, especially in the Poconos. .

Tonight

Partly cloudy, cold, and brisk. Wind chills in the teens overnight.
Individuals named Caddawyc are typically characterized by a strong sense of duty, protective instincts, and leadership qualities. They often exhibit a blend of practical strength and spiritual depth, reflecting the name's dual heritage of warrior and Christian traditions. These individuals tend to be natural guardians who take responsibility for their communities and families seriously. They possess strategic thinking abilities and the courage to defend their principles, yet they also demonstrate compassion and a desire to build peaceful, stable environments.



The warrior aspect of the name manifests as resilience and determination in facing challenges, while the Christian influence contributes to a sense of moral purpose and service to others. Caddawycs are often seen as pillars of their communitiesreliable, principled, and capable of both defending what they value and nurturing growth in those around them. They typically balance action with reflection, showing both the courage to confront difficulties and the wisdom to seek peaceful resolutions when possible. This combination makes them effective leaders who inspire loyalty and respect through both their strength of character and their commitment to ethical principles.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Cherrill represents an interesting intersection of early 20th century naming trends, combining French linguistic influence with English naming conventions. The name emerged during a period when English-speaking countries, particularly Britain and its colonies, were experiencing a fascination with French culture and language. This was reflected in the adoption of French words and endearments as given names. The Christian significance of Cherrill comes not from biblical roots but from its embodiment of Christian virtuesspecifically, the concepts of love, charity, and cherishing others. During its peak popularity from the 1920s to 1950s, the name reflected a shift in Christian naming practices toward names that expressed positive qualities and emotional values rather than strictly biblical references.



The name's rhyming relationship with Meryl and Beryl places it within a specific cultural moment when parents sought names that sounded modern yet familiar, melodic yet substantial. This pattern was particularly popular in middle-class Christian families who wanted names that felt contemporary while still conveying traditional values. The name's decline in later decades corresponds with changing naming trends and the rise of different international influences, but it remains a testament to a particular era of English-speaking Christian naming culture that valued elegance, warmth, and European sophistication.
Amplifying African Voices for Strategic Action (AFSA) Conference 2025

When: Friday, 21 November 2025 - Thursday, 27 November 2025 Where: Online Event

Start time: 15:00 Enquiries: acsus.research@wits.ac.za RSVP: Registration Link Cost: R2000.00

Communicating African Agency at AFSA 2025 explores how Africa asserts its voice in the G20, advancing solidarity, equity, and sustainability.

This gathering brings together scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to examine Africas evolving role in the G20 and beyond.

The sub-theme Communicating African Agency will focus on: How Africa crafts and communicates its own narratives. The role of media, diplomacy, and public engagement in amplifying African voices. Building solidarity, equity, and sustainability through effective communication strategies. By addressing this theme, the conference emphasizes the urgency of not only speaking for Africa but also ensuring Africa speaks for itself in shaping a just and inclusive global order.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Cinneide holds deep roots in Irish history as an ancient Gaelic name borne by several prominent figures in medieval Ireland. The name originates from the Gaelic 'Cinneidigh', meaning 'helmeted head' or 'ugly head', though the protective connotation of 'helmeted' became the dominant interpretation. Historically, it was associated with warrior chieftains and learned poets, particularly within the powerful O Dalaigh bardic family who served as hereditary poets to Gaelic nobility. The name symbolizes the intersection of martial prowess and intellectual tradition in Gaelic society, where protection of clan and culture were equally valued.



Through the anglicized form 'Kennedy', it gained international recognition while maintaining its Irish cultural identity. The name represents a bridge between ancient Gaelic traditions and modern Irish identity, embodying the resilience of Irish culture through centuries of change. Families bearing this name often take pride in its historical connections to both warrior and scholarly traditions, reflecting the complex social structures of medieval Ireland where martial skill and learning were not mutually exclusive but complementary aspects of leadership.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The Corcoran surname originates from ancient Gaelic Ireland, derived from O Corcrain, meaning 'descendant of Corcran'. The name Corcran itself comes from 'corcair', meaning purple or reddish, likely referring to a ruddy complexion. This places the Corcorans among the many Irish families whose surnames described physical characteristics of their founding ancestor. Historically concentrated in County Fermanagh in Ulster, the Corcoran clan was part of the larger Maguire lordship and played significant roles in local governance and landholding. The name survived the various upheavals in Irish history, including the Plantation of Ulster and the Great Famine, with many Corcorans emigrating to North America, Australia, and Britain while maintaining their Irish identity.



In the diaspora, Corcorans often became prominent in their new communities while preserving connections to Irish culture. The establishment of institutions like the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington D.C. demonstrates how the family name became associated with cultural patronage and civic leadership abroad. Throughout Irish history, the persistence of the Corcoran name represents the resilience of Irish families through colonization, economic hardship, and mass emigration. Today, it stands as a marker of Irish heritage worldwide, with bearers often maintaining strong interest in their ancestral roots and contributing to Irish cultural organizations and events.
The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is being increasingly integrated into parliamentary work and large sections of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) are flirting with the prospect of bringing the fascists directly into government. Against this backdrop the Free University (FU) in Berlin is seeking to muzzle its students and ban any criticism of the far-right party.

The university group Studis gegen Rechts (Students Against the Right Wing) had announced meetings at the three major Berlin universities. Topics to be raised at the meetings included the struggle against the AfD and the founding of its youth organisation Generation Deutschland. The Free University then banned the previously approved meeting just a few hours before it was due to begin, stating that it violated the universitys requirement of neutrality because it was directed against a specific party. For its part, Humboldt University declared that the meetings had not been registered with the HU and therefore could not take place.

Only Berlins Technical University allowed the students to hold their meeting, which was attended by hundreds of people. However, the university also made its approval conditional on the stipulation that no party political statements be made. The universities interventions were preceded by letters from the AfD demanding that the meetings be banned.

These acts are a blatant example of political censorship that cannot be tolerated. The IYSSE calls on all students to protest against this censorship to the FUs executive committee and defend Students Against the Right Wing! Students must not be deprived of their right to speak out against far-right tendencies, while more and more professors espouse such positions and universities are being transformed into militaristic think tanks. Students not only have the right, but also the historical duty to oppose war and fascism.

The FUs pseudo-legal justification that it is forced by the requirement of neutrality required of state institutions to ban anti-fascist events is absurd and spurious. Universities behave neutrally when they allow all students to debate their political views in and through events, and not when they despotically decide which positions may be represented and which may not.

The neutrality argument becomes grotesque when it is not the promotion of a particular party that is banned, but rather any criticism of a particular party. How are students supposed to seriously discuss any political development without critically examining individual parties?

In fact, all the talk of neutrality serves only to silence students. On October 22, 2024, following its brutal suppression of student protests against the genocide in Gaza, the FU had already adopted a new policy that fundamentally denies students any right to express themselves on general political issues at meetings held at the university. This right is only permitted in the context of research and teaching, i.e., is reserved for professors. This is not neutrality, but Wilhelmine (i.e., royalist) authoritarianism! Professors constantly invite politicians from various parties to their universities to express their views on political issues, but students are forbidden from doing so.

In June, Humboldt University also attempted to censor a meeting organised by the IYSSE that was directed against the genocide in Gaza and the German governments war policy. HU claimed that students were not allowed to express their views on general political issues through events on meetings. However, after a wave of protests, the university administration was forced to back down and approve the meetings.

While students face ever greater restrictions on their freedom of expression, the universities themselves are by no means neutral, but are increasingly taking sides with German militarism and defending far-right political positions. Numerous events have taken place at the FU and HU universities promoting rearmament and war against Russia. When the right-wing extremist HU professor Jorg Baberowski was criticised by the IYSSE for trivialising violence against refugees and glorifying Adolf Hitler, the university administration explicitly backed the professor and attacked the IYSSE.

Censorship at Berlin universities is part of a dangerous development. Even before the last federal elections, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) had entered into a pact with the AfD. His parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn and Bundestag President Julia Klockner have long been preparing for the AfD to participate directly in government, with the support of the right wing Axel Springer media group.

This is entirely consistent with the logic of their politics. Trillion-euro military build-up, support for genocide in Gaza and horrendous social attacks are incompatible with democracy. In order to make Germany fit for war again, democratic rights are being restricted, incitement against migrants intensified and, ultimately, the fascists integrated into the government.

The only reason Merz and SPD leader Lars Klingbeil are hesitant to take this step is the fear that open cooperation with the AfD will lead to mass protests, as it did at the beginning of the year. In this respect, the Gleichschaltung (enforced conformity) of the universities, which is now to be enforced by gagging the students, is a prerequisite for integrating the fascists even further into the government.

This is an international phenomenon. In the United States, Trump is already establishing a presidential dictatorship to enforce the interests of the countrys fabulously wealthy financial oligarchy against the population. In order to implement his war plans and smash the meagre social security systems, he is intensifying the persecution of immigrant workers, deploying the army domestically and collaborating with right-wing gangs of thugs. An essential part of his dictatorial ambitions is the Gleichschaltung (enforced conformity) of the universities.

The IYSSE has invited the American socialist David North to Humboldt University on Tuesday, November 18, to report on these developments and discuss a socialist perspective in the struggle against Trump under the title Where is America headed?

On the heels of the censorship at Berlin universities and the integration of the AfD into official politics, the meeting takes on special significance. It is necessary to understand that the root cause of the development of war, dictatorship and inequality is the crisis of capitalism. Trump did not fall from the sky, any more than the right-wing development in Germany. Rather, these developments make clear that the power of the billionaires is no longer compatible with the needs of the population.

This gives rise to the socialist perspective of expropriating the big banks and corporations and placing them under democratic control. Implementing this requires the mobilisation of the international working class, that is, those who create all the wealth and bear the entire burden of war and economic crisis. This is the only viable perspective for defending democratic rights. We therefore call on all students who want to fight against war and fascism to join this struggle and come to the meeting with David North on Tuesday.
This Feb. 9, 2023, photo provided by the Oklahoma Department of Corrections shows Tremane Wood. [AP Photo/Oklahoma Department of Corrections ]

Just hours before Tremane Wood was scheduled to die by lethal injection on Thursday, November 13, 2025, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt granted him clemency, commuting his sentence to life in prison without parole. Wood, 46, had been condemned to die for his role in the 2001 fatal stabbing of 19-year-old farmworker Ronnie Wipf during a botched armed robbery at an Oklahoma City motel.

While Tremane Woods attorneys did not deny his participation in the robbery, they maintained that his older brother, Zjaiton Jake Wood, was the one who delivered the fatal blow. Jake Wood testified in his younger brothers defense prior to his own trial. He said he stabbed Wipf with a knife and that his brother had not been at the motel, a claim contradicted by other testimony. Jake Wood had confessed to the murder and received a sentence of life without parole. He died by suicide in prison in 2019.

At his last-minute clemency hearing, the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board voted 3-2 to recommend mercy. The board cited possible prosecutorial misconduct and, critically, Tremane Woods grossly ineffective trial attorney, John Albert, who admitted to drinking heavily and using cocaine during the trial. Albert later apologized to Wood, writing, Im sorry, and noting, You got me at a bad time.

Governor Stitt, a Republican supporter of the death penalty who has previously ignored clemency recommendations for four other men, chose to accept the boards recommendation after prayerful consideration. Stitt said his action ensured that Wood received the same punishment his brother received. Woods clemency marks only the second time Stitt has intervened in nearly seven years in office, during which time 16 men have been executed.

Florida

Bryan Jennings, a former US Marine, was executed by lethal injection at 6:20 p.m. local time on Thursday, November 13, 2025. He was put to death for the 1979 rape and murder of 6-year-old Rebecca Kunash on Merritt Island.

This photo provided by Florida Department of Corrections shows Bryan Frederick Jennings.

Jennings was the record 16th inmate executed in Florida in 2025, a nation-leading total that doubles the states previous record of eight executions set in 2014.

Jennings, 20, home on leave from the Marine Corps, confessed that he went drinking, looked into windowswhich he always had this thing to look intoand then took the sleeping first-grader from her bedroom window. After abducting her and driving her to a nearby canal, Jennings raped her, smashed her head into ground, fracturing her skull, before holding her under water until she drowned.

When asked for any last words before receiving the lethal injection, Jennings declined. Florida utilizes a three-drug cocktail of a sedative, a paralytic and a drug to stop the heart. After the drugs were administered, Jennings twitched and his chest heaved for a few minutes. Though the procedure was declared without complications by the Department of Corrections, other reporters noted it took longer than is typical.

During his third trial, Jennings mother told jurors he never knew his biological father and was a problem child from birth, describing him as very destructive and hyperactive. She recounted wanting to admit him to a mental hospital in Boston on a doctors recommendation, but she changed her mind, fearing the stigma would prevent him from joining the military.

More recently, Jennings lawyers argued he was left without representation for months after his counsel died in 2022, which they contended denied him due process and monitoring of his mental health. The Florida Supreme Court rejected this contention. The US Supreme Court denied Jennings last-minute appeal for a stay of execution.

Jennings, a former US Marine, was one of six veterans executed in Florida so far this year. Also put to death were:

Edward James: executed March 20, 2025. US Army veteran convicted for the murder of an eight-year-old girl and her grandmother in 1993.

Jeffrey Hutchinson: executed May 1, 2025. US Army Ranger who served during the Gulf War, convicted of the murder of his girlfriend and her three children in 1998.

Edward Zakrzewski: executed July 31, 2025. US Air Force technical sergeant in Korea, convicted of the murder of his wife and two children in 1994.

Kayle Bates: executed August 19, 2025. National Guardsman deployed during the 1980 Miami riots, convicted for the 1982 murder, kidnapping, armed robbery and attempted sexual battery of a woman in Bay County.

Norman Grim Jr.: executed October 28, 2025. US Navy, convicted for the 1998 rape and murder of his neighbor.

The executions of these veterans are a demonstration of the US militarys brutality in its imperialist exploits around the world, the impact on those sent to do the fighting, and the callousness with which the government is willing to send them to their deaths after they have served their tours.

Governor Ron DeSantis has ordered more executions in a single year than any Florida governor since US Supreme Court reinstated the death penalty in 1976. DeSantis justifies the unprecedented rate by arguing that he seeks to deliver long-delayed justice to victims families for crimes committed decades ago, stating, Justice delayed is justice denied.

The acceleration of state killings by DeSantis is politically motivated, following the lead of President Trump, who signed an executive order on January 20, Inauguration Day, titled Restoring the Death Penalty and Protecting Public Safety. The order:

Rescinded the moratorium on federal executions put in place by the Department of Justice in 2021.

Directed the US attorney general to pursue the death penalty in all applicable federal cases.

Specifically required the death penalty to be sought for murders of law enforcement officers and for capital crimes committed by undocumented immigrants, regardless of other factors.

Encouraged the attorney general to help states maintain access to lethal injection drugs and to assist in carrying out state-level executions.

Calling for efforts to overturn Supreme Court precedents that limit state and federal authority to impose capital punishment.

South Carolina

Stephen Bryant [Photo: South Carolina Department of Corrections ]

On Friday, November 14, 2025, South Carolina executed Stephen Bryant, the third inmate in the state to die by firing squad in 2025. Bryant is the third man executed by this controversial method in South Carolina in 2025. Prior to this year, only Utah had used the firing squad in modern history, doing so in 1977, 1996 and 2010.

Bryant was convicted for the murder of three people during an eight-day killing spree in 2004. He received the death penalty for the murder of Willard T.J. Tietjen, who was shot nine times after allowing Bryant into his home. After the murder, Bryant used Tietjens blood to scrawl a taunting message on the wall: Victem 4 in 2 weeks. Catch me if u can.

Bryants attorneys argued he was deeply troubled in the months leading up to the crimes, having begged for help from a probation agent and his aunt because he was obsessed with thoughts of being sexually abused as a child by relatives. He attempted to cope using meth and smoking marijuana sprayed with bug killer.

Bryant was executed at the Broad River Correctional Institution in Columbia. He made no last words. He was strapped to a chair and a hood placed over his head. A red bulls-eye target was placed over his heart. Three volunteer corrections officers fired at him with high-powered rifles from 15 feet way. The 44-year-old was declared dead at 6:05 p.m.

A protester looks on outside of Broad River Correctional Institute prior to the scheduled execution of Stephen Bryant in Columbia, South Carolina, Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. [AP Photo/Matt Kelley]

South Carolina legalized the firing squad in 2021. The state executed two inmates by this method earlier this year; Brad Sigmon was the first to die, on March 7, 2025.

Witnesses said there was no warning before the executioners fired their weapons simultaneously at about 6:05 p.m. After Sigmon was shot, he appeared to take two short breaths and a blood stain appeared on his chest. He was pronounced dead about three minutes after the shots were fired. In a statement, his lawyer, Gerald Bo King, said that Sigmons death was horrifying and violent.

An autopsy photo of Mikal Mahdi, who died by firing squad April 11, showed only two distinct wounds. Dr. Jonathan Arden, a pathologist, stated, The evidence indicates that he was struck by only two bullets, not the prescribed three. Consequently, the nature of the internal injuries from the gunshot wounds resulted in a more prolonged death process.

Arden said it was likely it could have taken 30 to 60 seconds for Mahdi to lose consciousness, during which time Mahdi would have suffered excruciating pain as his lungs tried to expand against a broken sternum and he experienced air hunger as his lungs failed to inhale oxygen.

Bryant was the 43rd inmate executed in the US this year, a number not seen since 2012.
Following the decision by the Labor state government in Victoria to demolish 44 public housing towers in inner Melbourne, the residents remaining in the targeted flats are being subjected to a war of nerves by the government agency Homes Victoria.

Collingwood public housing

Premier Jacinta Allans government wants to demolish the public housing in the state capital, starting with the towers in Flemington and North Melbourne, in order to cede the valuable land to property developers for 40 years. The developers intend to build their own high rises to reap a handsome profit.

There are about 10,000 residents in the public towers. Under Labors plan, the developers will construct 30,000 units but only 11,000about one-thirdare earmarked for so-called social housing, which is far inferior to the existing public housing in security of tenure. Public housing has permanent tenure so many residents have been able to live in the towers for decades, but tenure in social housing can be as short as two years.

Residents remaining in the towers are living in limbo while they wait for Homes Victoria relocation officers to organise possible transfers for them to supposedly suitable housing. The balance of power is weighted against them in their dealings with the officers.

Many of the residents come from refugee backgrounds, with their lives upturned by war and dislocation, and English is not their first language. In particular, documents in official English can create enormous stress.

Negotiations between the relocation officers and the residents have consisted of to-ing and fro-ing about possible relocations, where at any point the officers can send a resident an official letter to speed up the process.

These letters are couched in terms that the residents cannot easily understand, conveying threats that if they do not quickly accept an offer they will have their priority removed. That would leave them vulnerable to homelessness while languishing on the Victorian Housing Register, which has 60,000 applicants for public or social housing, few of whom receive homes.

One resident who received a generic refused offer letter was informed that they had one more priority offer only and would suffer removal from priority if they refused it.

The letter was written in incomprehensible terms. It suggested they could appeal such a decision by obtaining evidence from their doctor to be provided on a specific form. Then further ambiguous information was provided about the suitability of areas for relocation.

This opaque official communication caused distress to the resident, who told the World Socialist Web Site: They said that if I dont take the second place they offer, then they can take me off the list. I know this area [the existing towers] very well. I have lived here pretty much my whole life. Its terrible, its terrible.

The resident suffers from serious ill health and is waiting for blood pressure and other medical test results, but Homes Victoria has not taken this into consideration.

The adverse health situation is so serious it made the resident unable to work, but because a specific medical form had yet to be filled in, the resident was being treated as not requiring special consideration.

The accommodation that Homes Victoria offered was so unsuitable that the resident immediately refused it, but this refusal generated the generic letter from Homes Victoria. This sort of communication serves to depersonalise the recipients and adds to the stress they are already feeling about being uprooted from their homes of many years.

Another resident had received a similar official communication after their relocation negotiations broke down. They had already filled in the form to apply for special consideration and were being unfairly ordered to do it again. This appeared to be a punitive requirement in response to having refused an offer.

The resident explained the pressure applied by a relocation officer to accept an offer. After I refused this house, she called me next day and said, Do you make a decision? I said I refused. Then they said: We need you to take this house. You need to choose.

I said, Let me think about it, give me time. She said, Today is Friday. You have to make a decision over the weekend. You have to give us your answer on Monday.

How can you make a decision like that in two days? They are doing this to us, pushing us. This is the way they are treating us. How come I have to make a decision in two days when this is where I am going to live my whole life?

The result was intensified stress. Yes, I have a lot of stress. I dont go to my work. I was supposed to work today, I would have made good money, but the reason I didnt go is this stress I am under. When I received this letter, I was so shocked.

And my children are stressed too! They say, We dont want to go far. We dont want to do this.

The government dont listen and they dont care. The people in government just want to fill their pockets.

They need to treat the residents, who have been living here a long time, like human beings. The [relocation officers], theyre not human. They are lying. They just want to make the government happy. All they want to do is make sure they shift you out.

This constant pressure on me is having a terrible effect. For example, when I got this message saying that I had to appeal. Ive had to see a doctor, Im getting so stressed

Im getting false things told to me. I feel like they just want me out. Im so stressed I dont sleep. Like how are you meant to make such a decision in two days? It is just pressurising us. Yeah, Im getting punished.

The fact that Homes Victoria is proceeding in this brutal manner demonstrates the Labor governments determination to impose this program. This underlines the political bankruptcy of the perspective of appealing to the Labor government to change course. Yet this is being advanced by the Greens, the pseudo-left groups such as Victorian Socialists and Socialist Alliance and a bevy of single-issue protest groups.

This perspective has been tried and failed in various forms, such as a parliamentary inquiry and a Supreme Court case. The Labor government remains adamant that the towers must come down because it is part of its cost-cutting program directed against the working class.

There needs to be an opposed perspective, based on a turn to the wider working class for support and the formation of rank-and-file committees to fight the capitalist program of austerity and war.

This requires a socialist perspective. The vast resources created by the working class must be used to meet the pressing social needs of the majority, including for decent affordable housing, not the profits of the wealthy few.

A Neighbourhood Action Committee has been formed to unite the residents in the towers and the broader working class to halt the demolition of the public housing towers. The committees next meeting will be held on Sunday, November 16 at 2.30 p.m. at the Kensington Neighbourhood House, 89 McCracken St Kensington, and there is an online Zoom option.

We urge all public housing residents throughout Australia, and supporters of public housing throughout the working class, to join and become active within our Neighbourhood Action Committee. Contact us today!

Contact the SEP:

Phone: (02) 8218 3222

Email: sep@sep.org.au

Facebook: SocialistEqualityPartyAustralia

Twitter: @SEP_Australia

Instagram: socialistequalityparty_au

TikTok: @sep_australia
Prison guards stand outside holding cells during a media tour of the Terrorism Confinement Center, or CECOT, in Tecoluca, El Salvador, Feb. 2, 2023. [AP Photo/Salvador Melendez]

On November 12, Human Rights Watch (HRW) and Cristosal (a human rights organization for El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras) released a damning report on the inhumane and illegal treatment of 252 Venezuelans detained for four months in CECOT (Center for the Confinement of Terrorism), El Salvadors maximum security torture prison. The 236-acre facility is staffed by 1,000 prison guards, 250 riot police and guarded by 600 members of the armed forces.

You have arrived in hell. Here you will spend the rest of your lives. With this declaration, the director of El Salvadors CECOT greeted the hundreds of men dragged into the countrys maximum security torture camp.

The report documents an extensive, coordinated and deliberate series of incidents of physical, psychological, sexual abuses, deprivation and torture carried out with the express intent to subjugate and humiliate detainees.

On March 14, the Trump administration invoked the Alien Enemies Act, declaring the small and local Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua a national security threat. The 1798 Alien Enemies Act grants the president unchecked powers to detain or deport nationals of enemy states without due process.

Ignoring a judges order, the following day, March 15, US authorities illegally removed 238 Venezuelans to El Salvador, with most taken directly to CECOT prison. The White House never provided a full accounting of who exactly was sent to the prison camp but later claimed 101 were deported under regular immigration procedures, while 137 were removed under the Alien Enemies Act, accused of Tren de Aragua membership. Additional smaller groups were sent on March 30 and April 12.

Among those detained was Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was returned to the US on June 6 after months of torture and growing public outcry in the United States.

The report confirms detainees are kept in conditions that are intentionally inhumane. The report states that The prison has no yards, recreational areas, or conjugal spaces. Each cell has only two non-private toilets and two water basins. There are no sinks, showers, natural light, fans, or ventilation systems. The aluminum bunks inside the cells lack mattresses and sheets and are designed to hold two prisoners per bed. Guards surveil prisoners constantly and the lights are always on.

Food is of limited and poor quality, served in small plastic containers and cups that are passed through the cell bars. The three meals are identical, and detainees are forced to eat with only their hands. Every five days, each person has his head shaven.

The abuses begin the moment they are detained, continued as they are transported and escalated after they arrive. The beatings continue daily during cell searches, when detainees allegedly violate prison rules (such as showering at the wrong time or speaking too loudly) and even when they request medical attention.

The most severe beatings occur in a punishment area called the Island, consisting of six small solitary confinement cells. Detainees are taken there under various pretexts and beaten with batons, fists and kicks before being left locked inside for hours or days without adequate food, water or light.

A single window in the ceiling at the end of the module serves as the only source of light and ventilation. Each punishment cell measures 2.5 meters by 4 meters (8.2 feet by 13 feet) and consists of a cement slab, a water tub with a bucket, basic drainage and a toilet. A room that serves as an infirmary is situated directly across from the torture cells.

Recounting his experiences in this island, one detainee stated: They kept hitting me, in the stomach, and when I tried to breathe, I started to choke on the blood. My cellmates shouted for help, saying they were killing us, but the officers said they just wanted to make us suffer.

Another detainee described being sexually assaulted by four guards while in the confinement cell, and the report documents pervasive instances of sexual abuse which go under-reported due to stigma and the resulting trauma.

According to a former detainee, the prison guards are heavily armed and armoured, are supported by riot police and have military forces posted around the entrance and perimeter. The guards in the prison concealed their identities, wearing identical gray shirts and black pants, hoods and no identification. They refer to each other only with intimidating nicknames.

Among the guards, there was one called Satan, who was the most abusive. There was another known as the Tiger, who was the boss of them all. And another, called Vegeta, was the only guard who used a phone; he was the one who took photos and videos of us, stated Julian G. to Human Rights Watch.

Notably the report states, Officers also appear to have acted on the belief that their superiors either supported or tolerated their abusive acts.

All of these acts are flagrant, deliberate violations of due process, human rights and international law.

Compounding the torture, those held were cut off completely from contact with their loved ones, with both the US and Salvadoran governments repeatedly denying requests for information on their whereabouts.

Despite prior reports of abuse and torture in CECOT, the United States nonetheless sends the detainees to the facilitya violation of the principle of non-refoulement in the UN Convention Against Torture (CAT). Non-refoulement is an international legal principle that prohibits a country from returning refugees or other individuals to a place where their life or freedom would be threatened, or where they would face torture, cruel or degrading treatment.

Of the 252 Venezuelans who were subjected to arbitrary detention and enforced disappearance, ICE data shows that of those sent to CECOT, 49 percent had no criminal record at all. Only 3.2 percent had violent or potentially violent charges. This flies in the face of the deluge of propaganda from the US government that those detained were gang members or terrorists.

Following massive public outcry, on July 18, the detainees were released in an exchange with Venezuela, where they continue to face the very same danger and uncertainty they sought to flee from, including the threats of war.

The horrors documented in CECOT are the product of a capitalist system that is turning with increasing ferocity against the working class. Terrified at the growing support for socialism among workers and youth, the US ruling class is preparing the suppression of mass social opposition inside the United States itself. The Trump administration seized on the Alien Enemies Act because it provides a legal fig leaf for unlimited state power.

The Democratic Party responded not by opposing these attacks but by financing and expanding the machinery of repression. The Big Beautiful Bill Act allocates tens of billions of dollars for new for-profit prisons modeled on CECOT, while both parties collaborate to criminalize immigrants, protesters and political opponents.

The creation of Alligator Alcatraz in Florida and other similar concentration camps throughout the US marks a new stage in this process. With the branding of antifa as a terrorist organization by the Trump administration, any expression of opposition to the destruction of democratic rights, to the capitalist system or to imperialist war will become grounds for indefinite detention.

The scenes now unfolding in Chicago, Los Angeles and major cities across the country, where federal agents and militarized police assault workers, are test runs for a broader campaign of state violence.

As Trotsky explained in his analysis of the rise of fascism in the 1930s, the bourgeoisie turns to dictatorship when it can no longer rule through the traditional forms of democracy. The descent into torture, indefinite detention and mass deportation is inseparable from the catastrophic levels of inequality and social misery produced by American capitalism.

The fight against these crimes cannot be waged through appeals to the Democratic Party or any faction of the existing political establishment. It requires the independent political mobilization of the working class across national boundaries, armed with a socialist program to dismantle the apparatus of repression and bring those responsible for these atrocities to justice.

Only such a movement can prevent the spread of the CECOT model internationally and halt the drive toward dictatorship.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Democrat-New York, right, and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Democrat-New York, outside the White House in Washington, September 29, 2025. [AP Photo/Evan Vucci]

The publications of the pseudo-left organizations have been remarkably silent on the Democratic Partys bailout of the crisis-ridden Trump administration. This week, eight senators who caucus with the Democrats voted to end the government shutdown on terms dictated by Trump and the Republicans.

Not a single article has appeared to date on the websites of Left Voice, Socialist Alternative, the Party for Socialism and Liberation or the Revolutionary Communists of America. These organizations of the privileged middle class prefer to ignore the fact that the Democrats have yet again demonstrated their essential unity with the fascist Trump and his Republican co-conspirators in their war against the democratic and social rights of the working class. The Democrats claim to be fighting to defend health care by extending Affordable Care Act subsidies and blocking the doubling, tripling and even quadrupling of insurance premiums for tens of millions of people has been exposed as a fraud.

By their silence, the pseudo-left organizations themselves are complicit in the lurch to dictatorship of the financial oligarchy, which controls both parties.

Jacobin, the unofficial publication of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), has published two articles. But the content of these articles, promoting illusions that the Democrats and trade union bureaucracies can be pressured to the left and the capitalist system can be reformed, make the DSA no less complicit in the war against the working class. Without a trace of a class analysis, and employing the most banal tropes of protest politics, Jacobin seeks to channel the growing revolt of workers and youth against dictatorship, war, genocide and inequality back behind the Democratic Party.

The more significant of the two Jacobin articles, written by Eric Blanc, was posted November 10 under the headline Democrats Caved in the Shutdown Fight. Unions Let Them. As always in articles by the pseudo-left, as noteworthy as what is said is what is not said. There is no mention of capitalism or socialism. There is no call for an independent mobilization of the working class, including strike action, to bring down Trump. The would-be dictator is portrayed merely as an individual, not the representative of a criminal ruling oligarchy.

Blanc deplores the weakness of most union leaders and the Democrats. He writes:

This shutdown fight was a structure test showing where were strong and where were weak. The results are in: most top union leaders are failing to meet the moment. Despite a widespread desire from below to fight, institutional inertia and risk-aversion up top remain the norm. As Sanders noted last night, what last Tuesdays election showed is that the American people want us to stand up to Trumpism, to his war against working class people, to his authoritarianism  that is what the American people want us to do. But tonight that is not what happened.

Blanc does not mention that Sanders, along with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, opposed calls by a handful of Democrats to force Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, widely known as the senator from Wall Street, to resign his post as leader of the Senate Democrats.

As to the source of this weakness, Blanc has nothing to say. It is not, according to him, lodged in objective class relations or the crisis of American and world capitalism, but rather in the subjective proclivities of various union leaders and Democratic politicians.

After approvingly citing Sanders on the consequences of soaring health care costs, the article criticizes the October 27 decision of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) leadership to call on the Democrats to end the shutdown without any guarantees on Obamacare subsidies. Blanc hastens to add, I do not doubt the sincerity of [AFGE President Everett] Kelleys commitment to his membership, but complains that he should have pressured the Republicans rather than the Democrats.

He then criticizes the Culinary Union leadership for tacitly backing the Democratic vote to end the shutdown, saying it could have organized protests in front of lawmakers offices. The AFL-CIO and big progressive unions should have protested daily against those senators who refused to commit to defending healthcare, Blanc adds.

He writes: Part of the reason Democratic politicians dont fight is that most union leaders dont fight eitherat least not in a way that meets the urgency of this authoritarian and oligarchic moment.

As to why neither the union bureaucrats nor the Democratic politicians fight, Blanc and Jacobin are silent. That is because they are covering up the reality that the Democratic Party is a party of the financial oligarchy and the military-intelligence apparatus, and the trade union leadership is an agency of the corporations and the capitalist state, which derives its fat salaries and perks by serving as the industrial police of the ruling class to impose layoffs, speedup, and low wages and suppress the class struggle.

What is denied is the necessity for the working class to break with the Democrats and establish new, democratic organizations of working class resistance independent of the union bureaucratsrank-and-file committeesto unite workers nationally and internationally against the capitalist system.

Blancs reformist delusions reach their high point when he writes that going forward workers should launch ambitious campaigns to pressure the regimes pillars of support  businesses, media outlets, school administrations, and the rest  to break from Trump.

He concludes by declaring that a new leadership must be built in the Democratic Party and the trade union apparatus, once again promoting the fatal illusion that these instruments of the capitalist class can be made to fight for the working class.

In opposition to such attempts to divert and politically disarm the working class, the World Socialist Web Site wrote on November 10 of the Democrats vote to end the shutdown:

This action is not merely a capitulation to Trump but deliberate collaboration with the Republican administration under conditions of deepening political, social and economic crises for American capitalism. It is a calculated decision to save the fascist administration as its position becomes more and more precarious The Democrats have enabled Trump because they support the fundamental pillars of his domestic agenda, and they are terrified of anything that could trigger a mass movement from below.
At a party room meeting on Wednesday, the Liberal Party voted to ditch their nominal commitment to reduce carbon emissions to net zero by 2050. The next day, Liberal leader Sussan Ley publicly announced the policy change.

Liberal Party leader Sussan Ley [Photo: Facebook/Sussan Ley MP]

The shift goes far beyond the intrinsic significance of the policy itself. The climate targets of all of the major parties are a sham, which they willfully violate, including the current federal Labor government, under which emissions are increasing.

Of greater significance is the fact that the change marks a further shift to the right by the Liberals, under conditions where they are facing an existential crisis.

The immediate impulse was provided by the Liberals Coalition partner, the National Party, a regional and rural-based party. They preempted any Liberal decision by announcing a fortnight ago that they were dispensing with net zero.

That declaration posed a question mark over the future of the Coalition, if the Liberals were to maintain net zero. It was clearly aimed at strengthening the hand of right-wing factions within the Liberal Party, some of whose representatives, such as Jacinta Price and Andrew Hastie have openly undermined Leys leadership and called for the party to adopt a more Trumpian program.

The context is the Liberal debacle in the May 2025 election. The party received its lowest vote since it was founded in 1944. An urban party, it was all but wiped out in the major cities, holding just 9 out of 88 metropolitan seats, deepening a tendency that had been apparent in the previous two elections.

Ley, a member of former Prime Minister Scott Morrisons centre right faction, won the leadership of the Liberals after the election in a narrowly contested ballot. She was supported by the remaining moderates, while her opponents Angus Taylor, and Price for deputy, had the backing of the right-wing factions.

Ley has largely sought to defer any decision on policy questions. After the election rout, the Liberals announced a protracted review into all policies that they had taken to the poll. With that dragging on, the Nationals made a move.

In announcing the change, Ley was reduced to a pathetic incoherence. While the Liberals would no longer have a policy of net zero, they would be pleased if such an emissions reduction were to occur by 2050.

The Liberals would support Australia remaining a signatory to the Paris climate agreement, even as they rejected measures to achieve the nominal emissions reductions that the agreement calls for. The Liberals would repeal existing emissions mechanisms, and replaced them with an unspecified technology-led approach.

The mishmash of Leys presentation was aimed at presenting the new policy as a compromise between the right-wing factions and the moderates, who had wanted to retain net zero. The obvious contradictions in Leys statements make clear this is not the case. The outcome of the meeting was a rout for the moderates, whose own political capital within the Liberal Party is approaching net zero.

In the lead-up to the party-room meeting, several moderates had spoken publicly against dumping the policy. They warned that it would confirm the Liberals descent into political oblivion, making it almost impossible for them to regain the city seats that they have lost over the past three elections.

According to media reports, moderates had raised internally that ditching net zero was a red line, which could not be crossed without consequences. That raised the possibility of a split or of defections.

Despite those warnings, the vote appears to have been roughly 60-40 percent in favour of dispensing with the policy. And since Leys announcement, moderates have grumbled anonymously to the press, but it appears clear that they will accept the outcome.

That is a marker of the breakdown of the Liberal Party as a broad Church conservative party. For many years, as the primary urban party of the ruling elite, the Liberals maintained within their ranks disparate right-wing forces, including those moderate types that pitched themselves as socially progressive and economically conservative, self-styled centre-right elements and more far-right forces.

Whatever equilibrium was maintained between the contending forces has unravelled over the past decade. A significant turning point came in 2018, when then Liberal Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull was ousted by his party. Turnbull, a wealthy businessman with close ties to the financial elite, had genuflected to the concerns of inner-city layers of the population, over gay marriage and the environment.

He was replaced by Leys factional ally Scott Morrison, whose leadership marked a shift to the right. Morrison closely aligned his government with the first American administration of the fascistic President Donald Trump and deepened Australias involvement in a US-led war drive against China, which had been supported by all governments since 2011. He also dog whistled to a far-right millieu on such issues as immigration and the pro-business drive to end all pandemic safety measures.

Notwithstanding his right-wing pitch, including overtures to climate change deniers, it is notable that it was Morrison who signed up to the Paris climate agreement and instituted the policy that has now been dumped. That signals the even deeper shift to the right that has occurred since.

The Liberals have largely lost their inner city seats to Teal independents. Many of them are former Liberals or have had longstanding connections to the party. While being rabidly pro-business, they have pitched to concerns over the environment and have presented the Liberals hostility to measures to address climate change as being out of step, including with substantial sections of business.

The Teals are in some respects Turnbull-style Liberal moderates. Three of the six Teal MPs have family who were high-ranking Liberals. The fact that they are outside the Liberal Party already had the character of a split, prior to the latest turmoil.

As the WSWS has explained, underlying the Liberal crisis are profound shifts in class relations. The relatively broad middle-class of the post-World War II era, upon which the Liberals were based, no longer exists. Many small businesspeople face a precarious and uncertain existence. Layers of professions, such as teachers and health staff, have been proletarianised and increasingly identify their own social plight with that of the broader working class.

Meanwhile, the social polarisation of the past four decades has changed the composition and character of the upper classes. In addition to the financial elite, there is a privileged and grasping upper middle-class, narrower and with greater access to wealth, than the middle-class of old. It is these layers that the Teals speak for.

The ditching of net zero makes clear that Leys attempts to hold the Liberal Party together are doomed to failure. While she remains the leader for now, she has capitulated to the right, rendering her little more than a figurehead.

Those elements within the Liberal Party, such as Price and Hastie, who have been agitating for a more far-right pitch across the board, will only be emboldened. In addition to dispensing with net zero, they have called for a more aggressive assault on immigrants, an Australia First style turn to state-protected industry and the promotion of virulent nationalism.

That is bound up with a broader shift to the right, also expressed within the Labor Party itself. Its program is indistinguishable from that of previous Liberal governments, from pro-business tax cuts to the rich, to social cuts targeting workers and the poor. Labors military policies, aimed at completing Australias transformation into a frontline state for war with China, and its attacks on immigrants and refugees, have helped to foster an official atmosphere of xenephobic nationalism.

While Labor was touted in the media for its landslide win in the 2025 election, the vote polled was its second lowest winning tally in its history. In working-class areas, the rejection of Labors program was more pronounced particularly over its complicity and defence of the genocide in Gaza. To the extent that Labors vote increased in some areas, it was in part due to picking up Liberal voters.

What is developing is a search by sections of the ruling elite for a new far-right formation, either emerging from the Coalition or elsewhere.

The far-right anti-immigrant One Nation is polling at a record 15 percent. The extent to which its successes are accelerating the disintegration of the Coalition are made clear by the ongoing discussions between former National leader Barnaby Joyce and Pauline Hanson of One Nation about a possible defection.

Even more right-wing forces, including the neo-Nazi National Socialist Network, are coming to greater prominence, aided by extensive media coverage.

As is the case internationally, the impulse for the development of far-right tendencies is coming from above, including from some of the countrys wealthiest businesspeople. Amid a crisis of global capitalism and the breakdown of the old political mechanisms of capitalist rule, such as the Coalition, they recognise the need for new formations whose far-right policies are in line with the lurch to authoritarianism demanded by the program of austerity and war supported by the entire political establishment.

As that searching around continues, the ruling elite is more dependent than ever on Labor and its affiliated trade union apparatus. Its pro-business and pro-war policies are placing it on a collision course with the working class.
On November 9 an individual in the city of Nelson, New Zealand, was diagnosed with measles, the 18th case identified in an outbreak affecting different parts of the country, including Auckland, Wellington, Manawatu and Taranaki. Thousands of people have been potentially exposed to the virus.

A sign outside of Seminole Hospital District offering measles testing, Feb. 21, 2025, in Seminole, Texas. [AP Photo/Julio Cortez]

While 17 previous casesmostly confirmed in Octoberare no longer infectious, the most recent case had no known links to any of them, indicating that the highly contagious and potentially deadly virus is spreading undetected. Health NZ warned: New Zealand continues to remain at high risk from measles.

Measles is preventable through vaccination, but New Zealands vaccination rate has fallen over recent years. The re-emergence of the disease in developed countries around the world is an indictment of capitalist governments, which are dismantling public health systems and promoting anti-vaccination charlatans such as US Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

In the United States, over 1,281 confirmed cases of measles were reported in July, the highest number in three decades, with cases in at least 38 states.

Radio NZ (RNZ) reported on October 22 that only about 80 percent of New Zealanders have immunity against measlesmuch lower than the 95 percent needed to prevent a widespread outbreak. After the National Party government belatedly appealed for people to vaccinate their children, the percentage of children under 2 years old who had received the vaccine increased to 82.6 percent, as of November 11, up from 75.1 percent a year ago.

Vaccination is lowest in Maori and Pacific Island communities, which are among the poorest sections of the working class.

In late 2019, under the previous Labour Party-led coalition government of Jacinda Ardern, New Zealand experienced a severe measles outbreak, with 2,194 reported cases, 35 percent of which required hospitalisation. The worst complications involved encephalitis (brain inflammation), pregnant women losing their babies and live-saving treatment for children.

At that time, according to the Ministry of Health, immunisation coverage for children less than 24 months old was 91 percent, with unvaccinated populations concentrated in working class areas like South Auckland. The outbreak spread from New Zealand to the impoverished Pacific country of Samoa, which had a largely unvaccinated population who had been targeted by a disinformation campaign led by Kennedy and other anti-vaccination campaigners.

There were 5,700 cases in Samoa, 1,800 hospital admissions and 83 deaths, most of them children.

Following the 2019 outbreak the Labour-led government allowed measles vaccination rates to plummet from 91 to 84.4 percent for under-two-year-olds by 2021. While the Ardern government initially implemented strict lockdowns and an elimination strategy for COVID-19, measles preparedness was criminally neglected.

In late 2021, the government caved to the demands of big business for an end to the zero-COVID policy. Labour, with the crucial collaboration of the trade union bureaucracy, imposed the same disastrous let it rip policy that had already led to millions of deaths worldwide. Thousands of people died in 2022 and 2023, as under-staffed hospitals were overwhelmed by COVID patients.

Sections of the political establishment, including the far-right ACT Party and especially NZ Firstwhich was part of the Labour-led coalition from 20172020openly stoked anti-vaccine sentiments. NZ First leader Winston Peters visited an anti-vaccination protest encampment on the lawn of parliament in early 2022. Both parties are now playing a major role in the National-led government.

Health Minister Simeon Brown announced on November 3 that 117,000 measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccines were available and 28,000 in productionan amount that is insufficient to address the crisis caused by under-vaccination. Tairawhiti Medical Officer of Health Dr Oz Mansoor told RNZ that more than 500,000 New Zealanders were likely susceptible to measles.

The outbreak has included high-risk exposure events, including one infectious person who travelled on a ferry between the North and South Islands on October 3, potentially exposing hundreds of people.

There were cases reported at Auckland Grammar School and two Wellington secondary schools, Wellington Girls College and Wellington College.

Wellington Girls College principal Julia Davidson told RNZ on November 3 that she had asked Health NZ whether a student prize-giving event should proceed despite a confirmed case of measles. The event was permitted by the government agency. A student was later found to have attended the event while symptomatic.

The school then identified about 900 close contacts of the student with measles, and asked students in years 9, 10 and 11 to stay home. Davidson said: were ignoring [Health NZs] advice at the moment by keeping people home for three days We have staff who have babies under one, people who have family members who are compromised, health wise. The school cancelled all planned events except exams.

The Director-General of Health Audrey Sonerson sent a letter to health and education leaders on October 31 that students should continue to attend school regardless of their vaccination status if there has not been a case of measles discovered at a school. If a case arose, school rolls would be compared with immunisation records and students without two MMR doses would be asked to stay home.

The governments top priority is to avoid any disruption to the economy and profits. Speaking to RNZ, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon sought to shift responsibility for the public health crisis onto individuals: In a first world country, we shouldnt be having measles outbreaks. We shouldnt be having schools shut down. But we need parents to do their part, which is to get their kids vaccinated.

This is the same government which continues to allow COVID-19 to run rampant, with tests increasingly hard to find, mask mandates and other mitigations scrapped, and public health information about vaccines and other preventive measures virtually non-existent.

In total, 5,475 people are reported to have died from COVID since the pandemic began, including four deaths in the week ending November 9. More than 47,000 people have been admitted to hospital with the virus.

The same utterly negligent approach has been taken with measles, despite repeated warnings from experts about the low vaccination rate. Modelling by the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science has warned that as many as 150 people a week could get infected with measles if an epidemic takes hold.

Since the pandemic, the public health system has been further starved of funding, by both Labour and National governments, in order to cut taxes for the rich and to transfer billions of dollars to the military.

Immunisation Advisory Centre senior adviser Mamaeroa David told RNZ on October 25 that hospital and general practice staffing shortages contributed to the perfect storm My biggest concern is were going to start actually losing children to measles this round.

Tens of thousands of nurses, doctors and other healthcare workers, as well as teachers, took part in a mass strike on October 23the largest strike in New Zealand since 1979to oppose the governments efforts to slash their wages and its refusal to address the staffing crisis in public hospitals. The union leaders are currently in talks with the government in an attempt to impose sellout agreements and prevent future strikes.
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Ukrainian soldiers prepare to fire at Russian positions from a U.S.-supplied M777 howitzer in Kharkiv region, Ukraine, July 14, 2022. [AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka]

On Monday, the Trump administration plans to deport 83 people from the United States in the first mass deportation to Ukraine in years.

If the flight is allowed to take place, the men will be flown to Poland and then driven to the border with Ukraine, where Ukrainian officials will conscript them into the armed forces and send them to the front. As one anonymous adviser to Zelensky thuggishly told the Washington Post while confirming Mondays flight, The US can deport as many as they want. Well find good use for them.

Among the detainees are individuals who have lived in the US since they were children. Many have US citizen spouses and children who fear Mondays flight like they would fear their spouses execution. Most do not even speak Ukrainian, and many are not even Ukrainian citizens, having been born in the Soviet Union before Ukraine existed as a separate country.

Deportation to conscription into the Ukrainian army is the equivalent of a death sentence. As one detainee on Mondays flight told the Washington Post: I deserve to get deported, but not in the war zonenot where the war is right now. How can you deport me somewhere where the war is?

The Socialist Equality Party (US) demands the immediate cancellation of the deportation flight and the immediate release from immigration detention of each individual in question. Those who face deportation on Monday may face death on Tuesday. Not a single Democratic politician has so much as tweeted about the deportation flight. Ocasio-Cortez, Sanders, Mamdani and the rest are so hell-bent on presenting the corrupt dictator Volodymyr Zelensky as a beacon for democracy that they allow Trump to execute the flight with a cover of silence.

The German motorship St. Louis, of the Hapag-Lloyd Line, arrives in New York and immediately makes preparations to return to Hamburg without passengers in this Sept. 28, 1938 photo. In 1939, before the outbreak of World War II, The St. Louis left Germany with 937 Jewish refugees aboard but its entry to Cuba and Florida was denied. [AP Photo]

If Mondays flight takes place, it will be the modern Voyage of the Damned. This was the term used to describe the US governments 1939 refusal to allow the ship MS St. Louis and its hundreds of Jewish passengers seeking refuge from Hitler from docking in Cuba. The Democratic administration of President Franklin D. Roosevelt refused to allow the ship to dock and turned it back to Europe. A large portion of the ships passengers returned to Belgium and France. Between 200 and 300 of them were murdered in the Holocaust. It is a dark historic irony that the fascists and Nazi adulators in the Ukrainian government evidently made Mondays flight possible.

The deportation confirms that the Trump administration is operating, as a rule, in brazen violation of the law. It is a direct assault on the fundamental international legal principle of non-refoulementthe cornerstone of modern international immigration law. Enshrined in Article 33 of the 1951 Refugee Convention and reaffirmed in multiple subsequent declarations, non-refoulement prohibits any state from returning a person to the frontiers of territories where his life or freedom would be threatened. It is absolute and applies regardless of nationality, status or political expediency.

The administrations violation of non-refoulement principles is the immigration law equivalent of its systematic assassination of Venezuelan and Colombian fishermen.

The flight is not the product of some formal legal accord. It is the result of a backroom deal cut by the corrupt Ukrainian government led by Zelensky, mired in a corruption scandal that implicates every level of the state. Who knows how many kilos of gold or air defense systems the Ukrainian government traded away in exchange for 83 lives? And even if those who face deportation somehow evade conscription, they are being deported to a dictatorship.

In a petition for a writ of habeas corpus, one of the lawyers challenging the deportations, Eric Lee, quoted the State Departments own 2024 Human Rights Report on Ukraine. It found [s]ignificant human rights issues involving Ukrainian government officials included credible reports of. . . torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment; arbitrary arrest or detention; serious restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom, including violence or threats of violence against journalists. The report notes that [s]ome of these human rights issues stemmed from martial law, which continued to curtail democratic freedoms due to wartime conditions, including freedom of the press and legal protections.

The flight also spells grave danger for the hundreds of thousands of young Ukrainians who fled the country after the war began in 2022. Not satisfied with rounding up and brutalizing thousands of young conscripts within its own borders, the Ukrainian government is now extending its reach to expatriates living abroad.

This has long been a goal of the dictatorial Ukrainian government, and indicates that this flight is just the beginning of a broader campaign to fuel the Ukrainian army through a global policy of mass deportation. If Trump can deport Ukrainian refugees into the Ukrainian army, wouldnt also Germany, France or Britain, where hundreds of thousands of young Ukrainian refugees live? Last year, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said in Chicago that the government was pursuing repatriation of those who had fled the war, declaring, We have to win this war. Thats only half of the battle. We are facing enormous challengesdemographic, primarily We will fight for our demographics.

The modern-day Voyage of the Damned places added urgency to the case of Bogdan Syrotiuk, a 26-year-old socialist imprisoned by the Zelensky government on baseless treason charges. Syrotiuks only crime was to oppose the NATO-backed war and advocate unity between Ukrainian and Russian workers against the capitalist oligarchies and imperialist powers driving the conflict. He has been detained for a year-and-a-half under deplorable conditions in Nikolaev.

That the US government would now forcibly send longtime US residents to this same authoritarian statewhere political dissenters like Syrotiuk are silenced, jailed, and branded as traitorsunderscores the criminal character of both the Trump and Zelensky regimes. The campaign to free Bogdan Syrotiuk is inseparable from the demand to halt the deportation flight: both stand for the defense of democratic rights and opposition to the war which threatens to spiral into a nuclear conflagration.

The planned deportation flight is part of a broader assault on immigrants and refugees being carried out by the fascistic Trump administration. In Chicago and other cities, immigrant communities are being terrorized by brutal ICE raids.

Just days ago, on November 8, the administration allowed Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans to expire, forcing hundreds of thousands to leave the country or face detention and deportation. These actions come as the US escalates its military presence in the Caribbean and steps up threats of war against Venezuela. Overall, the attack on immigrants is the spearhead of the administrations attempt to establish a dictatorship in the US.

As Mondays flight shows, the persecution of immigrants is inseparably linked to the broader campaign of militarism, repression, and the destruction of democratic rights. The same oligarchy that is deporting refugees to war zones is waging an unrelenting war on the entire working class.

The working class must oppose Mondays deportation flight with all its strength. It must come to the defense of immigrants and refugees not as an act of charity, but as part of a unified struggle against dictatorship, imperialist war, and capitalist exploitation and a demonstration of international class unity.



The fight to defend democratic rights begins with the defense of the most vulnerableand it must be armed with a socialist program to put an end to the system that breeds war, repression, and inequality.
Those bearing the name Cyrene typically exhibit a remarkable blend of strength, independence, and practical intelligence. Drawing from the mythological figure's characteristics, Cyrene-named individuals often demonstrate natural leadership abilities and a no-nonsense approach to problem-solving. They tend to be physically active and connected to the natural world, with an innate understanding of practical matters and survival skills. Their independence can manifest as self-reliance to the point of stubbornness, but this is typically balanced by deep loyalty to family and close friends.



Psychologically, Cyrene individuals often possess what ancient Greeks would call 'metis'practical wisdom and cunning intelligence. They're quick thinkers who excel in crisis situations, much like their namesake who single-handedly battled a lion. There's often an earthy sensuality about them, combined with a straightforward honesty that others find refreshing. While they may not seek the spotlight, their competence and reliability naturally draw people to them for guidance and support. Their strength is not aggressive but protective, making them natural guardians of people and principles they value.
Over the past two months more than 1,000 musicians and record labels have signed on to an initiative to remove their music from Israel in a protest against the massive crimes carried out by the Zionist regime.

The campaigns website explains that No Music for Genocide is a cultural boycott of Israel. The participating artists and labels, it goes on,

have geo-blocked and removed their music from that territory in response to Israel's genocide in Gaza; occupation and ethnic cleansing of the West Bank; apartheid within Israel / '48; political repression of Pro-Palestine efforts wherever we live; and the music industry's own ties to weapons and crimes against humanity. This tangible act is just one step toward honoring Palestinian demands to isolate and delegitimize Israel as it kills without consequence on the world stage.

No Music for Genocide points to the music industrys double standards and blatant hypocrisy. It notes that within months of Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022,

every major label either unilaterally removed their entire catalogue from Russia or closed operations entirely, implicitly or explicitly condemning Putin's actions while donating to Ukraine. No such measures have been taken against Israel (or in support of Palestinians) after decades of illegal occupation, apartheid, and over two years of accelerated genocide in Gaza. Israel has violated the October 2025 ceasefire over 100 times in Palestine to kill 100s more Palestinians, just as Israel has repeatedly, violently violated earlier ceasefires in both Palestine and in Lebanon.

The list of performers joining the anti-Israel boycott, primarily from the US, Ireland, the UK and Europe, includes Fontaines D.C., Kneecap, The Knife, Massive Attack, Lorde, Bjork, Paul Weller, Wet Leg, Clairo, Lucy Dacus, Nao, Wolf Alice, Of Monsters and Men, Nilufer Yanya, Faye Webster, Arca, MIKE, Japanese Breakfast, Redveil, Hayley Williams, Marina, Muna, Idles and Obongjayar.

The members of Kneecap- Mo Chara, Moglai Bap, DJ Provai [Photo-Kneecap Press]

A representative of No Music for Genocide told Rolling Stone:

Were hopeful that this new ceasefire will put an end to the worst of the worst, if Israel doesnt violate it, but our urgency remains unchanged. The peace plan, imposed on Palestinians under the threat of continued genocide, offers no guarantees or credible paths for a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza; the end of Israeli apartheid and occupation; Palestinian rights to self-determination, self-governance, and the return of refugees; nor holding Israeli war criminals accountable.

On social media, the group argues that despite the so-called ceasefire,

Palestinians face the brutal consequences of genocide. Israel has inflicted at least 240,000 casualties (with some estimates higher than 650,000) and displaced 95% of Palestinians in the enclave while destroying or damaging 92% of its housing units and 94% of its farmland. Almost all facilities required to sustain life have been targeted. In the Occupied West Bank, state-settler violence against Palestinians has reached historic highs.

In its frequently asked questions (FAQ) section, No Music for Genocide poses the question: Is it antisemitic to criticize and boycott Israel?

In response, the group remarks that decades before the Holocaust,

countless Jewish scholars and religious leaders vehemently opposed the political ideology, Zionism, that led to the modern nation-state of Israel. Zionism's European founding fathers openly spoke about their ambitions in Palestine as a colonial project in the 1800s.  More and more Jews around the world are reviving the tradition of Jewish anti-Zionism. In any case, the priority right now is ending Israeli apartheid, occupation, and genocide, not bad faith accusations of antisemitism.

Massive Attack [Photo by Platonova Alina / CC BY 3.0

In a statement to NPR, Israeli embassy officials in Washington, representatives of a mass murder regime despised in every corner of the globe, condemned the musicians protest as discriminatory, immoral and misguided.

Such boycotts do nothing to advance peace or improve the lives of either Israelis or Palestinians. On the contrary, they deepen division and harm the very people they claim to support.

In response to the anti-Nazi boycott of 1933 organized by American Jewish organizations, Propaganda Minister Joseph Goebbels declared that reports of Nazi crimes were nothing but international atrocity propaganda and that German Jews would be harmed morally and commercially if the boycott were not ended.

There is no doubt that No Music for Genocide and the response of large numbers of performers and musicians speak to the broad leftward shift currently under way. The Zionists horrific crimes, backed to the hilt by all the great powers, have opened the eyes of tens of millions, especially among the young, to the nature of the present social and economic order.

As we commented in September, in reporting on the Film Workers for Palestine appeal for a boycott of Israeli film institutions:

The steady accumulation of appeals, protests and open letters by thousands of actors, directors and others speaks to genuine anger and a growing radicalization in artistic and intellectual circles. It also hints at a political impasse that needs to be overcome. Protests aimed at government and existing parties, and even the legitimate punishment of Israeli institutions, will not change the ghastly situation. Only the movement of the international working class, coming into action against the capitalist society responsible for these world-historic crimes, can do that. The artists will have to turn their attention in that direction.
Nicholas (Nick) Acker, 36, was found dead at the Allen Park DNDC on Saturday, November 8. [Photo]

Are you a postal or other logistics worker? Send us a report on conditions in your facility by filling out the form at the end of this article.

On Sunday, November 16, at 3:00 p.m. US Eastern Time, the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC) and the Socialist Equality Party (US) are holding an online public meeting to organize the fight against layoffs and hunger. Register here to attend.

Nick Acker, the postal worker who died at the Allen Park Detroit Network Distribution Center (DNDC) facility on November 8, was laid to rest on Friday. Many questions remain unanswered in the days since his death, and no official cause has been released. His coworkers, however, are speaking out and demanding answers.

Nick arrived at work around 11:00 p.m. on Friday, November 7, but his body was apparently not recovered until 12:30 p.m. the following day. Firefighters told local media that he had been dead for approximately six to eight hours before he was found. While management told the press that his fiancee contacted police when he did not return home from work, she stated that she waited outside the facility for three hours before receiving help, and that she did not contact the police. Nicks coworkers confirmed this in comments to the World Socialist Web Site.

Josh, whose name has been changed to protect his identity, said: When I got to work, it was blocked off. We couldnt come in, and no one really knew what was going on. You could see his family over there crying, but we didnt know who the family belonged to That same day, they were still trying to get us to work, even to the point that they wanted us to go to another building to follow the mail. We had to fight and say, Were not walking in that building.

Josh continued, The way they handled her [Nicks fiancee] was messed up, too. She was outside for three hours in the coldno one brought her inand they even told her about the death over the intercom.

He recounted what a coworker on first shift had told him: She showed up because her husband hadnt come home from work, and they said he hadnt clocked out. [My coworker] saw firefighters and EMS come through the gate, and thats when someone got on the intercom and said it was a tragedy. Thats when they said [his fiancee] ran in, but they wouldnt let her through the door. She had to stand at the door for hours.

They said she wasnt next of kin, thats why they wouldnt let her in, he said. But they wouldnt have even known he was missing if it wasnt for her! She called the post office and said her husband hadnt come home, and his location was still showing at the job. Thats when they went and looked.

They kept hearing his walkie-talkie. The maintenance guys ride bikes around the facility, and Nicks bike was by the ladder where he died. They walked up the ladder, and thats when they found him.

A traumatic death

Another Detroit-area postal worker told the WSWS that they only learned of Nicks death after a coworker was prevented from entering the facility and was informed by another employee that someone had died inside.

We learned about [Nicks death] from a driver, a coworker who was there, the worker said. I didnt see anything online until Monday. I dont think anyone knew. The only reason we knew is from a driver who happened to be there to get packages. They told him he couldnt come in because there was a fatality.

Josh said, Its been real insensitive and inhumane. Honestly, its like they just wanted to say nothing happened. Management is trying their best to just push it under the rug. Its been quiet at work. No ones talking to each other. Its not a good place right now. Ive never seen anything like this.

The union eventually stepped in and got us an administrative leave day. We were told we were going to get two days off and return to work on Monday. And they said there would be a grief counselor available all week. Well, they slashed that to one day, and no grief counselor came. They put out a few pamphlets, and that was it. Back to work.

Josh explained that Nicks coworkers were essentially punished if they attended the funeral. We had to use our own personal time off to go to the funeral, and anyone who took more than two hours was written up. He said that many coworkers wanted to attend but did not have enough personal time off saved this late in the year.

At first everyone kept saying he had a heart attack and died, but thats not what happened, Josh explained. Apparently, the plant managers dont want the building to be shutting mail sorting down when theyre checking for mail. When you check for mail at the end of the night, usually its just a few parcels on the belt, and youre supposed to shut the belt down. But they dont want the belt to be shut down because they want the mail to constantly run.

So Nick was trying to check the mail while the belt was running. And mind you, these belts are 50 to 100 feet in the air. Apparently, he slipped and fell, his jacket got caught in the belt, and he broke his leg. We heard he broke his arm, too, and he lost consciousness.

The belt kept running. I heard his face had a lot of burn marks and there was a lot of internal bleeding. It really just sounds like a traumatic death.

Is anyone going to do anything about this?

Josh said that postal workers are under constant pressure from management and supervisors to keep machinery running at all times, or they risk being written up and disciplined. He asked a maintenance worker whether Nicks death was preventable, and he said it was 100 percent preventable.

It is not supposed to be like this, Josh continued. Everyone should know where everyone is. But it just shows you the lack of effort. They really do not care, you know? I dont understand how someone could be gone that long and no one noticed. And thats what were all saying, too.

This is not the correct protocol. If he was locked out, and the machine was off, he would have just slipped and fell, and probably just sprained a leg or something.

Nick was always funny. He cracked jokes and laughed, Josh said. Ive never seen him with an attitude. He was a good guy. He had just gotten engaged, and he was so happy about that.

The million-dollar question is: Is anyone going to do anything about this? Its like theyre keeping it so hush-hush. No one is really saying anything. The only information were getting is from the maintenance men, and theyre taking a stance. A lot of them have been calling off all week.

The union could be doing way more100 percent way morebut I feel like management has a hold on them.

Josh added, We dont really know if theyre going to open an investigation. Theyre trying to call it a freak accident, so I think theyre not going to investigate it because theyre saying its just an accident.

All the machinery is so old. It should have been updated. It could have been prevented. It just shows you that no one cares about us. And honestly, every conversation Ive had with a coworker, everyone says, That could have been us. Everyone feels the same.

I think thats why its hitting so hard, because no ones doing anything about it. Not the unions, not management. It could have been any one of us. Nick could have been me.

Another coworker of Nicks said: Its sad to say, but I am not surprised that a tragedy occurred in this plant. I say to myself on a daily basis that the place is a nightmare, a disaster, and a clown show.

A mail carrier described how mail carriers are tracked via TIAREAP (Technology Integrated Alternate Route Evaluation and Adjustment Process) to monitor carriers movements and contact them if they have been stationary for too long.

[USPS] track the carriers, she said. As long as we have our scanners with us, they can see where we are, how long we are sitting. She added that this is not the case for maintenance workers, and they they can often disappear in the plant with no one knowing where they are for long stretches of time.

A strategy to fight back

On Thursday, five days after his death, US Representatives Rashida Tlaib and Debbie Dingell issued a letter to Postmaster General David Steiner. Both of us care deeply about the staff of the NDC in Allen Park, many of whom are our constituents. We have toured the facility together on several occasions, and we have discussed and expressed our concerns regarding the facility over the years, they wrote.

The Democratic Partys intervention is aimed at suppressing the growing anger and opposition of workers to the conditions inside the postal system. This opposition is increasingly finding expression through the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC).

Last summer, the USPS Workers Rank-and-File Committee launched an inquiry into working conditions aimed at expos[ing] conditions at USPS to the workers of the world and to arm postal workers with crucial information which they need to organize a fight. The Democrats are intervening not to challenge these conditions, but to contain the political fallout and redirect opposition back into safe, pro-corporate channels.

Postal workers also participated in the inquiry into the death of Ronald Adams, Sr., an autoworker at the nearby Dundee Engine facility in southeast Michigan. Adams was killed when an overhead gantry crane unexpectedly engaged, pinning him and fatally crushing his upper torso.

The death of Nick Acker is is the product of a system that prioritizes mail throughput and profits over the lives and safety of workers. Across the country and around the world, workers are confronting the same ruthless disregard for their well-being, enforced by management, protected by the unions, and covered up by the political establishment.

Postal workers must draw the necessary conclusions. No confidence can be placed in the Democratic Party, the union bureaucracy, or the corporate-controlled media. The fight to uncover the truth about Nicks death and to prevent future tragedies requires the building of rank-and-file committees in every workplace, democratically controlled by workers themselves and independent of the union apparatus.

We urge postal workers, and workers in all industries, who want to share information, expose unsafe conditions and take up the fight to build rank-and-file committees to contact the World Socialist Web Site today by using the form below.
Individuals named Dedrik are typically perceived as natural leaders with a strong sense of responsibility toward others. They often exhibit qualities of reliability, determination, and practical wisdom, making them well-suited for positions where guidance and decision-making are required. Their inherent leadership tendencies are balanced by a genuine concern for the well-being of those around them, living up to the name's meaning of 'people's ruler' in the most positive sense. Dedriks tend to be methodical in their approach to challenges, preferring structured solutions over impulsive actions. They often possess strong organizational skills and the ability to bring people together toward common goals. While they can be authoritative when necessary, they typically lead through consensus-building and fair judgment rather than autocratic rule. Their strength lies in their ability to balance firm leadership with compassionate understanding, making them respected figures in both professional and personal contexts. These personality characteristics often manifest as a quiet confidence rather than overt dominance, with Dedriks earning respect through consistent action and thoughtful leadership rather than forceful personality.
Individuals named Deorsa are often perceived as grounded, practical, and deeply connected to their roots and traditions. They typically exhibit strong work ethics, reliability, and a methodical approach to life's challenges, reflecting the farmer archetype embedded in the name's meaning. Their connection to the earth often translates into patience, stability, and a nurturing disposition toward both people and projects they care about.



Beyond their practical nature, Deorsas often possess quiet strength and resilience, able to weather difficulties with the same steadfastness as farmers enduring seasonal changes. They tend to value community, family heritage, and cultural preservation, often serving as keepers of tradition while still adapting to modern circumstances. Their leadership style is typically more collaborative than authoritarian, preferring to work alongside others rather than command from above, mirroring the cooperative nature of traditional farming communities. This combination of practicality and cultural awareness makes them particularly effective in roles that require both hands-on skill and cultural sensitivity.
In the new historical drama Nuremberg, Russell Crowe stars as Nazi Hermann Goering, one of 22 men from the Third Reich to stand trial for war crimes at the end of the Second World War.

It explores the relationship that developed between the Reichsmarshall and American psychiatrist Douglas Kelley (Rami Malek) in the lead-up to the Nuremberg trials in 1945. Kelley had been sent to assess the Nazi criminals in order to ensure they were fit to stand trial, but had ambitions of learning what made these men so different that they were capable of committing heinous acts of violence.

Based on the historical event, as well as the non-fiction book The Nazi and the Psychiatrist by Jack El-Hai, the movie dramatises events while aiming to provide an accurate portrayal of what happened between the inmate and the doctor.

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However, as a drama, some license is taken and certain facts are missed out. For those curious to learn more, here is everything you need to know about the real event.

The true story behind Nuremberg

Hermann Goering pictured in the courtroom during the Nuremberg trials. (Getty Images)

At the end of the Second World War, Allied forces were eager to punish the defeated Germans and chose to hold them accountable by putting them on trial.

The trial was put on to convict the defendants, but also acted as a means of assembling and presenting evidence of Nazi crimes as a whole, and to offer a history lesson. Never before had a prisoner been charged with crimes against humanity, and the trial helped shape lawmaking for years to come.

24 of the most important surviving Nazi officials had been arrested, 22 of whom would face an International Military Tribunal consisting of judges from the UK, America, France and the Soviet Union. Robert Ley died by suicide before the trial took place, and Gustav Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach's poor mental and physical condition meant he did not stand trial.

The film stars Rami Malek as psychiatrist Douglas Kelley and Russell Crowe as Hermann Goering. (Sony Pictures)

As the men prepared to stand trial, American psychiatrist and US Army major Douglas Kelley was brought in as the chief psychiatrist of the Nazi leadership.

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He assessed their health, mental state, and, on a personal level, wanted to learn whether there was anything different, psychologically, about the Nazis from others. He began to use his time interviewing and testing the prisoners with things like the Rorschach test in the hope of finding an answer.

During his time as chief psychiatrist, Kelley became particularly fascinated by Goering. The pair developed a close kinship in the months they worked together, so close they became that the Nazi leader even at one point asked Kelley to adopt his daughter Edda and take her to America.

The Nuremberg trials took place from November 1945 to 1 October 1946. (Sky)

Following his research, Kelley concluded that there was nothing that differentiated the Nazi prisoners from others, psychologically speaking.

He argued that the men were creatures of their environment and that anyone else was capable of the same thing, warning that society should be vigilant not to fall victim to the same patterns as the far-right could take root and grow anywhere.

The Nuremberg trials took place from 20 November 1945 to 1 October 1946. During the trial, evidence was put forward of the extensive war crimes committed by the Nazis during the Second World War, including the presentation of footage from concentration camps, which revealed the horror of the Holocaust.

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While the Nazis on trial put forward major defences, the tribunal rejected the idea that only a state, and not individuals, could be found guilty of war crimes. In the end, after 216 court sessions, the court found 19 of the accused guilty and acquitted three.

Goering, the most famous of the prisoners facing trial at Nuremberg, was sentenced to be hanged but died by suicide before his execution. He died by using a cyanide pill he had hidden from his captors.

Hermann Goering and Rudolf Hess are pictured front left and centre at the Nuremberg trials. (Getty)

Kelley left Nuremberg in January 1946 and wrote the book 22 Cells in Nuremberg about his time with the Nazis. He went on to work as a psychiatrist and criminologist, but struggled with alcoholism and outbursts of anger.

He died by suicide in 1958 at the age of 45; he died in the same manner as Goering  by ingesting cyanide.

The facts missed in the Nuremberg movie about the Nazi criminals

The Nuremberg War Crimes trial ended in 1946, with 19 Nazis found guilty. (Getty Images)

Nuremberg focuses predominantly on Goering, much like Kelley did in real life. But he was not the only Nazi leader made to stand trial; there were other prominent figures from the Third Reich there, such as Adolf Hitler's deputy Rudolf Hess, chief of security police Ernst Kaltenbrunner, and Karl Doenitz, who was Hitler's designated successor.

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It is revealed in the movie that Robert Ley, the head of the German Labour Front, died by suicide in his cell before the trial took place, and that Goering also died by suicide after he was pronounced guilty at the Nuremberg trials. The death by hanging of Julius Streicher, editor of the Anti-semitic paper Der Stuermer, is depicted in the film.

However, the movie does not reveal the exact fate of the other prisoners; rather, it implies that the remaining defendants were hanged like Streicher, but this was not the case. Of the 22 Nazis who faced trial, 19 were found guilty by the international tribunal of judges and three of them, Hans Fritzsche, Franz von Papen, and Hjalmer Schacht, were acquitted.

Hermann Goering with Alfred Rosenberg and Karl Doenitz at breakfast before the Nuremberg Trials. (PA)

Of those convicted, seven Nazis  Hess, Doenitz, Walther Funk, Erich Raeder, Baldur von Schirach, Albert Speer, and Konstantin von Neurath  were given prison sentences ranging from ten years to life.

Goering, Streicher, Kaltenbrunner, Alfred Rosenberg, Joachim von Ribbentrop, Alfred Jodl, Wilhelm Keitel, Hans Frank, Wilhelm Frick, Arthur Seyss-Inquart, and Fritz Sauckel were condemned to die by hanging. Martin Bormann was condemned to death in absentia.

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Goering requested to die by firing squad, believing it was a more dignified death than hanging, but was refused. Instead of facing the noose, he died by suicide. After the other Nazis were hanged, all of the bodies were taken to Dachau concentration camp, where they were cremated and their ashes were thrown into a river.

Nuremberg, the movie, does not reveal the fate of every Nazi who stood trial at Nuremberg. (Sky)

The seven Nazis given prison sentences were sent to Spandau Prison in West Berlin, where they served their time. Schirach, Doenitz, and Speer served their full sentences, while Funk, Raeder, and Neurath were each released early due to ill health in the intervening years.

Hess was the last inmate at Spandau prison and was alone from 1966 and 1987. He died by suicide at the age of 93 in August 1987. After his death, the prison was demolished and replaced to avoid it becoming a shrine for neo-Nazis.

Rudolf Hess pictured in Berlin's Spandau Prison around 1986, he was the last inmate in the prison and died in 1987 by suicide. (Getty Images)

Of the three Nazis who were acquitted, two were tried in a German denazification court. Fritzsche was convicted of Nazi crimes in 1947 and given a sentence of nine years' hard labour. In 1950, he was released under amnesty and died of cancer in 1953.

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Papen was sentenced to eight years' hard labour in 1947 but won his freedom on appeal in 1949. He went on to publish several memoirs and books and died in 1969 at the age of 89. The third Nazi to be acquitted, Schacht, worked in the German banking industry until his death in 1970.

Facts missed about Douglas Kelley in Nuremberg

Nuremberg centres on Rami Malek's Douglas Kelley during his experience with the Nazi prisoners. (Sky)

Nuremberg explores several aspects of Kelley's time with the Nazi prisoners, but El-Hai's non-fiction book reveals the details it misses or changed.

It is depicted in the film that Kelley was dismissed from his position after spending time with Goering's wife, Emmy, and daughter, Edda, whom he smuggled letters to and from Goering. While Kelley did meet with Emmy and Edda Goering, he was not dismissed for it  in fact, Kelley chose to leave his position at Nuremberg after feeling that he had learned all he needed to know.

He left as he believed he had fulfilled his responsibilities to the tribunal, and he returned to America in January 1946, where he reunited with his wife Dukie. Unlike how it is depicted in the movie, Kelley was not present at the Nuremberg trials when Goering took the stand in March 1946.

The film changes some facts about Douglas Kelley's time in Nuremberg, likely for dramatic effect. (Sky)

Another change made in the movie relates to a man who would later become Kelley's professional rival: Gustave Gilbert. While he served as the most senior psychiatrist in Nuremberg, Kelley was joined by psychologist Gilbert (played by Colin Hanks) in October 1945.

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The film portrays the pair as being at odds with each other from the get-go, with Gilbert revealing his ambitions to write a book about the war criminals without Kelley's involvement. While Gilbert was seen as a bit of an interloper, Kelley and Gilbert did agree to write a book together about their findings.

Nuremberg depicts Douglas Kelley as being dismissed from his position; in fact, he left of his own accord. (Sky)

It was Kelley who reneged on this agreement when he left Nuremberg. Kelley took his findings and research back to America and prepared to publish 22 Cells in Nuremberg by himself.

Gilbert stayed in Nuremberg for the remainder of the trial and published his own book, Nuremberg Diary, in 1947 (shortly after the release of 22 Cells), followed by The Psychology of Dictatorship in 1950.

The film also depicts Goering turning on Kelley, and in their last conversation, telling him that he will amount to nothing and will not have a place in history like he will. In reality, Goering said this to Gilbert and when Kelley left Nuremberg, Goering broke down and wept.

Nuremberg is out in UK cinemas now.
MUNCIE, IN  Actor Hugh Jackman was back in Muncie on Friday, Nov. 14, and visited a memorial for a Delaware County sheriff's deputy who lost his life this week in a traffic accident.

The memorial  in the form of a Delaware County sheriff's vehicle  is in front of the county's justice center at 3100 S. Tillotson Ave.

Actor Hugh Jackman, shown during a visit to Ball State University on Sept. 15, was back in Muncie on Friday, Nov. 14. The "Wolverine" star paid his respects at a memorial for a Delaware County sheriff's deputy who was killed in a Wednesday traffic accident on Interstate 69.

Deputy Blake Reynolds was fatally injured early Wednesday while assisting the driver of a disabled semi along Interstate 69 in northwestern Delaware County.

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Another northbound semi crashed into both the disabled semi and the deputy's patrol vehicle.

More: Delaware County deputy's death in the line of duty prompts tributes, offers of help

Also on Friday, Jackman visited the AMC Muncie 12 movie theater, 860 E. Princeton Ave. The theater reportedly hosted a showing of "Song Sung Blue," a Jackman film that will premiere in December.

Also on Friday, the actor stopped at Muncie City Hall and visited with Mayor Dan Ridenour and members of his administration.

The "Wolverine" star also visited Muncie  and the Ball State University campus  in mid-September.

His girlfriend, actress Sutton Foster, is an adjunct professor at Ball State.

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Douglas Walker is a news reporter at The Star Press. Contact him at 765-213-5851 or at dwalker@muncie.gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Muncie Star Press: Actor Jackman back in Muncie, pays his respects at deputy's memorial
If Cynthia Erivo has taught us anything during the Wicked: For Good press tour, its that shes committed to rewriting the rules of fantasy dressing. I did expect a mix of black and green, as per her last press tour, but it feels that this time out, she is taking the high-gloss, high-fashion darkness route. And honestly? It suits her.

Universal Pictures

For the Singapore photocall, Cynthia arrived in a Mugler by Miguel Castro Freitas black patent leather hourglass trench from the Spring 2026 collection  a look that feels part villain, part futuristic commander. The moment she stepped beneath that golden archway, it was impossible not to think The Matrix. Trinity would absolutely nod in approval.

This isnt just a trench coat; its a sculpted silhouette with exaggerated hips, sharp shoulders and a liquid shine that turns the actress into a living piece of art. On the runway it looked fierce, but on Cynthia it becomes something sharper  almost like shes stepped into an alternate universe and traded her broomstick for a cyberpunk bike in a Matrix crossover.

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Some might be wanting more than black looks, but what can I say? It works. Instead of echoing her on-screen persona, shes building a distinct style narrative that stands on its own. Take Elphaba out of the equation, and this is still peak Cynthia.

Between the latex sheen, the structured silhouette, and the red heels punctuating the look  a quiet nod to Dorothys ruby slippers  she continues to deliver fashion moments that feel fully inhabited.

Stylist: Jason Bolden. Makeup Artist: Joanna Simkin. Nail Tech. Shea Osei.
Shoppers at Kroger stores in North Texas will soon see a familiar face on a new product.

Dallas star Patrick Duffy and his wife and fellow actor Linda Purl are launching Duffys Dough this week at more than 80 stores across the Metroplex. Expansion into the Houston area will come in the next few weeks.

If the name doesnt give it away, Duffys Dough is all about bread  sourdough, to be exact.

The pair are sourdough fanatics and want to use their shared love to help fight hunger. Thats why, after operating costs are settled, 100% of profits from Duffys Dough will go to charitable causes like No Kid Hungry and Meals on Wheels of America.

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Even in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, one in five people in the population are affected by food scarcity, Duffy told the Star-Telegram at a north Fort Worth Kroger this week. The great majority of those are children.

 More service stories from our newsroom:

'How much will a Thanksgiving meal cost this year?

TCU's new role in 'Landman' Season 2

Traffic IS getting worse in N TX. Here's proof.

How to check flight delays at DFW Airport, Love Field

A gift for a gift

Duffys journey with sourdough started more than 70 years ago, when his mother was gifted a starter that had been passed down from Alaskan Gold Rush miners.

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Growing up, Duffys mother would make sourdough pancakes and dinner biscuits, but he didnt realize what the breads were being made of. It wasnt until he was college-aged that Duffy learned about the historic starter.

It wouldnt be for a few decades later that Duffy would think about selling the bread. That came after he reconnected with Purl after a few years.

I was trying my very best to impress her, so I was baking, Duffy said.

Initially, Duffys and Purls idea was to sell a dehydrated sourdough starter kit.

After finding some small success, the duo knew they needed to find a bigger partner to realize their vision. Seeking advice, they asked a friend who worked at Newmans Own, who said they needed to go to a boardroom and make a handshake deal.

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Duffy and Pearl did their research and settled on Kroger, due to the companys customer-friendly and price-conscious approach. The problem was that they didnt know anyone at the grocery chain.

They asked around their friend groups to see if anyone had any Kroger connections. One friend said they were on a board with someone on the Kroger board, which helped get the ball rolling.

We took our little starter and some samples of our bread and our recipes, and we crawled in there begging, Purl said. It was a great meeting, it went on for four hours.

Duffys Dough is in business

Duffy and Purl formed a deal with Kroger, and the grocer kept them involved at every step.

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The packaging for Duffys Doughs take-and-bake products features Duffys face, just like Newmans Own does with founder Paul Newman. Duffy said that was part of the deal, which he was happy to oblige.

This is gonna go on long after were gone, Duffy said. My face will look the same, no matter how old I get.

Duffys Dough is launching with five products out of the gate:

Sourdough loaf

Multigrain sourdough loaf

Artisan sandwich roll

French dinner roll

Demi sourdough baguette

Duffy and Purl said eventually they would like to add more products to Duffys Dough, whether that be a sourdough pancake mix or cinnamon rolls.

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They also make a jalapeno cheese loaf at home, which could be in the mix. But for now, theyre focusing on the five products available.

One step at a time, Duffy said.

The cast of "Dallas" when it premiered in 1978. From left, Steve Kanaly, Linda Gray, Charlene Tilton, Larry Hagman, Jim Davis, Barbara Bel Geddes, Victoria Principal and Patrick Duffy.

Baking up a legacy

For many, Duffy is known as Bobby Ewing, one of the stars of the long-running prime-time soap opera Dallas.

The show was a cultural phenomenon over its run from 1978 to 1991, with more than 80 million people alone tuning in to the episode explaining who shot J.R., the scheming oil tycoon played Larry Hagman. The show would then be revived for three more seasons in the early 2010s.

Duffy, who appeared in more than 300 episodes, attributed the success of the show to its reflection of the times.

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The country was in the middle of an oil crisis. Ronald Reagan was going to become president. Cowboy culture was huge. And the Dallas Cowboys were Americas team at that point, Duffy said.

Those combinations, along with the fact that there hadnt been a prime-time soap opera on television since Peyton Place in the 1960s  everything hit at the right time.

I was just fortunate to be a part of it, Duffy said.

Speaking of another oil industry show that films in North Texas, Duffy said he hasnt seen Landman yet, but has heard good things. He also said hes available if Taylor Sheridan needs him.

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As for now, Duffy and Purl said theyre focused on shepherding Duffys Dough and continuing to address food scarcity around the nation.

Thats what we want to do and actually end up being remembered by, Duffy said. That and reruns of Matlock and Dallas.
Hugh Jackman made a surprise appearance Friday at an Indiana sheriff's corporal's memorial after the official died in an on-duty crash.

Corporal Blake Reynolds died on Wednesday on I-69 near Yorktown while pulling over and helping a disabled semi. Another semi driver lost control and hit both Reynolds patrol car and the disabled vehicle.

The Delaware County Sheriffs Department created a memorial outside its Muncie station, where the community left flowers to honor Reynolds and support his family.

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Rick Snyder, president of the Indianapolis Fraternal Order of Police, shared photos of Wolverine star visiting Reynolds memorial on X.

Shoutout to world-renowned actor and producer Hugh Jackman for stopping by and paying his respects at the Memorial for Fallen Delaware County (IN) Corporal Blake Reynolds, Snyder wrote in the post, adding, Sacrifice touches the spirit of everyone.

Hugh Jackman attended the Muncie, Indiana, memorial of Corporal Blake Reynolds, who was hit and killed this week while pulling over and helping another stranded semi truck driver (Getty Images)

Jackman, who is dating his former Broadway co-star Sutton Foster, an adjunct theatre faculty member at Ball State in Muncie, also stopped by City Hall, as seen in more photos shared on social media.

"Actor Hugh Jackman stopped by for a visit with Mayor Ridenour and city hall staff! We were honored to welcome him to Muncie and share a glimpse of the awesome work happening in our community, reads a Facebook post from the City of Muncie.

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His kindness, energy and genuine interest in our city made this visit one we wont soon forget."

Jackmans return to Indiana comes two months after he spoke at a Ball State Department of Theatre and Dance student event in Sursa Hall and also visited a media class.

Jackman also stopped by Muncie City Hall and visited with Mayor Dan Ridenour and staff (Facebook/City of Muncie)

Jackman and Foster have been dating since early this year, following his split from wife Deborra-Lee Furness. Their 27-year marriage ended in 2023.

Around the time her alleged romance with Jackman surfaced, Foster filed for divorce from her 10-year marriage to Ted Griffin.
If you follow Marla Maples on social, you'll see Gran Mar Mar is enjoying life as a grandmother.

In the six months since Tiffany Trump, the only daughter of President Donald Trump and his second ex-wife Marla Maples, welcomed a baby boy with billionaire husband Michael Boulos, Maples has posted many a photo of the first daughters new son.

Some of those Instagram posts include the trademark "baby feet" photos and the "sniffing of a baby's head" for that iconic "baby smell" pose. And lots of emojis.

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Tiffany Trump and Michael Boulos welcomed Alexander Trump Boulos at 4:44 a.m. May 15, 2025. Maples was quick to embrace being a grandmother with her own nickname: "Gran Mar Mar."

"No greater joy in the world," Maples commented on Tiffany Trump's sons birth announcement. "Michael and Tiffany this Gran Mar Mar loves you all so much!! You rocked it, my girl!"

Baby Boulos joins 10 older kid-relatives who have the president of the United States of America as a grandfather. Below is information about Alexander Trump Boulos, his mother Tiffany Trump, and her mother Marla Maples.

Youngest to oldest Trump grandchild: Baby Boulos born days after Kai Trump's 18th birthday

When did Tiffany Trump become a mom?

On May 15, 2025, days after Mothers Day, Tiffany Trump gave birth to Alexander Trump Boulos.

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Congratulatory messages came soon after. And so did photos  eventually.

Two months after he was born, Maples posted photos of her and Alexander when he was a few days old.

I couldnt wait any longer to share photos with my precious grandson Alexander who is two months old today! Maples said on Instagram. Her July 15 post featured photos and video of Alexander Trump Boulos as a newborn. Everyone kept asking me, What will you have him call you? And I remembered how, before Tiffany was born, my mother stitched a precious blanket with the name she had chosen for herself, Granna Ann. But Tiffany had her own idea and Granna Ann soon became Mom Mom. Needless to say, the needlepoint got replaced.

Maples explains further: So I whispered to Alexander, I dont care what you call me  even if its Little Granny. In the post, Maples gives her followers a glimpse of her newborn grandson and compliments her daughters parenting. Tiffany, your dedication and your love as a mother bring tears to my eyes and fills my heart with joy.

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Within the past six months, Maples has included baby Boulos in her Instagram Stories, Reels and posts  while also complimenting her one and only daughter, Tiffany Trump.

How many grandchildren does Donald Trump have?

On May 15, 2025, Tiffany Trump and Michael Boulos welcomed a baby boy, Alexander Trump Boulos. Their son is the 11th grandchild for President Donald Trump and the first for Tiffany Trump's mother Marla Maples.

Here's a list of Donald Trump's grandchildren and their parents:

Kai Madison Trump, eldest daughter of Donald Trump Jr. and his ex-wife Vanessa Trump, and the eldest grandchild of Donald Trump

Donald Trump III, eldest son of Donald Trump Jr. and Vanessa Trump

Spencer Trump, son of Donald Trump Jr. and Vanessa Trump

Tristan Trump, son of Donald Trump Jr. and Vanessa Trump

Chloe Trump, daughter of Donald Trump Jr. and Vanessa Trump

Arabella Kushner, daughter of Ivanka Trump and husband, former White House senior adviser Jared Kushner

Joseph Kushner, son of Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner

Theodore "Theo" Kushner, son of Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner

Luke Trump, son of Eric Trump and "Fox News" host Lara Trump

Carolina Trump, daughter of Eric Trump and Lara Trump

Alexander Trump Boulos, son of Tiffany Trump and Michael Boulos

Who is Tiffany Trump?

Tiffany Trump is the only daughter of Donald Trump and Marla Maples, who were married from 1993 to 1999.

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Tiffany Trump, a 32-year-old former model, married the 28-year-old businessman Boulos in 2022 at Mar-a-Lago, Donald Trump's private club and home in Palm Beach, Florida.

Unlike her older siblings, Tiffany Trump has largely stayed out of the political arena during her father's nearly 10 years in the spotlight.

Like her father, Tiffany Trump attended the University of Pennsylvania and graduated in 2016 with a bachelor's degree in sociology. After graduation, she continued her studies at Georgetown Law School in Washington, D.C. The couple met in 2018, when he was studying project management at City University of London and Tiffany Trump was a law student at Georgetown. Both were vacationing in Santorini and met in Mykonos at Lindsay Lohan's Beach Club, according to People magazine.

News reports show Tiffany Trump and Boulos have lived in Miami, Florida, since Tiffany graduated from Georgetown University in 2020.

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Marla Maples moved back to Palm Beach County in 2022. Tiffany Trump and Boulos live fairly close to the rest of the Trump family in South Florida.

Photos of Alexander Trump Boulos, son of Tiffany Trump and Michael Boulos, 11th grandchild of Donald Trump

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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 Palm Beach Post: Marla Maples, mom of Tiffany Trump, posts Boulos baby Instagram photos
Cody Detwiler, the founder of the popular YouTube channel WhistlinDiesel and

notorious enthusiast of pushing cars past their limits, was arrested on Wednesday on two counts of tax evasion related to his January 2023 purchase of a 2020 Ferrari F8 Tributo.

The Tributo, if its presumably the same one featured in a few of the channels viral videos, is clearly no longer with us, but the headache remains.

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Detwiler shared information about his arrest on his WhistlinDiesel Instagram page, including videos and stills of him being taken to the police car, a screenshot of his arrest record, and a copy of his mugshot, with a caption that read "Won so big they thought I was cheating. (100% real not AI)."

The indictment was sworn into the Williamson County Courts on Wednesday, November 5th, one week before the YouTube personality's public arrest.



He has since been bailed out on a surly bond of $20,000.

Count 1 states that "Cody Shane Detwiler, heretofore, to-wit, on or about January 30, 2023 before the finding of this presentment in said County and State, did unlawfully and willfully attempt in any manner to evade or defeat any tax due the State of Tennessee in an amount of five hundred dollars ($500) or more, to-wit sales tax due on the purchase of a 2020 Ferrarii F8 Tributo, in violation of Tennessee Cody Annotated 67-1-1440(g), a Class E Felony, and abasing the peace and dignity of the state of Tennessee."

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Count 2 repeats the same language but presents the tax evasion to the WHISTLINDIESEL, LLC.

The Ferrari in question is presumably the 2020 Ferrari F8 Tributo that the YouTube sensation accidentally set on fire, along with a rental van, in a cornfield two years ago. The video, which shows the fire rapidly engulfing the two vehicles, has garnered over 16 million views on the WhistlingDiesel YouTube page.

In its videos, WD's Ferrari had Montana plates on it because in Big Sky Country, there is no sales or excise tax on vehicles, a loophole used by supercar owners for decades that many states are looking to snuff out.

While it is unclear whether the out-of-state registration is directly involved in the tax evasion charges against Detweiler and WD in relation to this vehicle.

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The Tennessee state sales tax alone on a $400,000 purchase is enough to send supercar owners looking for such loopholes. Tennessee is around the national average with a 7% state tax, not including additional county or local sales tax, which could raise the tax on a purchase closer to 10%.

Detwilers first hearing will be held in Williamson County, Tennessee, on Wednesday, November 19th, at 8:55 a.m. local time, according to the County's online record system.

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People named Eferhard are typically characterized by remarkable inner strength and unwavering determination. They possess a natural resilience that allows them to face challenges with composed courage, often serving as pillars of stability in their communities. Their bravery extends beyond physical courage to include moral and intellectual fortitude, making them reliable in situations requiring principled stands. Eferhards tend to be deeply loyal to their beliefs, families, and commitments, demonstrating a consistency that earns them trust and respect. They approach life with thoughtful deliberation rather than impulsivity, weighing decisions carefully but acting decisively once their course is set. While they may appear reserved or traditional, this often masks a profound depth of character and strong protective instincts toward those they care about. Their leadership style is typically understated but effective, built on competence and reliability rather than flashy charisma. The combination of strength and steadfastness makes Eferhards natural guardians of traditions, values, and communities.
WhistlinDiesel -- a YouTuber with more than 10 million followers -- has been arrested for tax evasion ... TMZ has learned.

Law enforcement sources tell TMZ ... the star -- whose real name is Cody Detwiler -- was arrested Wednesday afternoon and booked into Williamson County Jail in Franklin, Tennessee. He bonded out of jail later in the day.

TMZ

According to the indictment, obtained by TMZ, WhistlinDiesel is facing two felony counts of tax evasion related to the sales tax owed on a 2020 Ferrari F8 Tributo, apparently purchased in January 2023.

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A Ferrari F8 appears in a video WhistlinDiesel posted to YouTube back in August 2023 ... when the car caught on fire while he tried to drive it through the middle of a field. The van that was driving alongside the Ferrari also appears to catch fire.

WhistlinDiesel became popular online for a variety of videos ... many of which involved him crushing cars and other large objects with the help of his "Killdozer" -- a tricked out bulldozer.

We've reached out to Detwiler ... so far no word back.

Story developing ...
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Credit: Courtesy of Netflix

Netflix is constantly releasing new movies, but only a select few get the theatrical release treatment each year. Typically, this is only done when Netflix is confident that the movie can contend for major awards. Having seen the streaming service's newest comedy-drama, "Nouvelle Vague," in a theater myself, I can confirm that this period piece is absolutely deserving of the theatrical treatment. In fact, it's one of my favorite films of the year so far, and at this point, I've seen dozens.

Coming from acclaimed filmmaker Richard Linklater ("Dazed and Confused," "Before Sunrise," "School of Rock"), this movie is a retelling of the making of the film "Breathless." Directed by the legendary Jean-Luc Godard, that crime drama became the gold standard of French New Wave cinema, or, as it's called in French, Nouvelle Vague.

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The French New Wave was an art movement in the 1950s and 60s that is still influencing how films are made today. And if "Breathless" is the gold standard of the New Wave, then "Nouvelle Vague" is the perfect homage.

"Nouvelle Vague' transports you back to 1950s France, and looks good doing it

"Nouvelle Vague" is, above all else, an incredibly stylish period piece. You not only feel like you're in 1950s France, but you feel like you're watching a French New Wave film. From a technical standpoint, it's a stunning homage to the genre, and we may never see homage done so well again.

Now, as far as this movie holding its own as a cinematic achievement ... well, to quote Jodie Ruth-Forest as Suzanne Schiffman in this film, It's no Citizen Kane. Frankly, it's no Breathless either, though again, that's a high bar to clear. "Nouvelle Vague" has some flaws, including that it inexplicably drags for the final half hour despite only being an hour and 47 minutes long. Even more inexplicable, I struggle to think of anything to cut from the movie, which is probably a shock to those who know me. I can almost always find 20 minutes to cut from a film, but I struggle to find a frame from this movie that I'd drop.

That's in no small part due to the incredible performances in this comedy-drama. Guillaume Marbeck is incredible as Jean-Luc Godard, and it should be a star-making performance for the French actor. The same could be said of Aubry Dullin as Jean-Paul Belmondo, and this film should certainly go on Zoey Deutchs reel. The dialogue is witty; you'll laugh on more than one occasion. You truly do fall in love with some of these characters by the time the movie is over.

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You also fall in love with cinema, even if you're a self-proclaimed cinephile like me. That's perhaps the biggest achievement of Nouvelle Vague. Yes, it's an incredible homage, but watching this movie, you can't help but find yourself wanting to go home and queue up Breathless immediately (which you can do on HBO Max), ideally in an impeccably tailored sport coat and trousers, wearing sunglasses indoors and smoking a cigarette.

Stream "Nouvelle Vague" on Netflix now

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Staying true to its mission to honor Pennsylvania talent, Centre Film Festival will begin Sundays festivities in the Rowland Theatre with the screening of homegrown films, including a short film shot in Centre County.

The Wayward writer and director Phoebe Post is no stranger to the sites included in her film. The State College native said it was a nostalgic admiration for where she grew up that inspired her to write the film and travel cross-country (she now lives in California) to direct it.

It comes from a place of kind of missing where I grew up, and central Pennsylvania, and sort of this uniqueness to Middle America in general, where people can live hard lives but theyre very resilient, Post said.

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Post is a returning filmmaker; her Western film On a Narrow Range was featured in last years festival. She has since shifted genres with The Wayward, and said it wasnt a hard transition.

I think Im more committed to the essence of the story, Post said. Im totally open to switching genres and places.

The short film The Wayward will be shown Sunday during the Centre Film Festival. The film was shot in locations around Centre County. A still from the film is pictured.

The Wayward is about 18 minutes long and follows EmmyLou, a woman recently released from jail who embarks on a mission to right wrongs, and along the way discovers which relationships are worth fighting for.

Post said the commonality between The Wayward and On a Narrow Range is the way they comment on womens role in society and female relationships.

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Ive always been very interested in making films about women and telling stories about women, Post said. The complex relationships that women can have either with each other or other people felt like something that I had kind of seen ... growing up here. So it felt like it was most appropriate to come back to Centre County and make the film.

Viewers will see locations such as Bellefonte, Hollidaysburg, State College and Boalsburg in the film, and Post hopes locals will be able to point them out. She made it a goal to hire locally, and she said that adds to the films authentic feel. Pennsylvania voices are both on and behind the camera.

I think the most rewarding part was being on set with talent and crew who are mostly from Pennsylvania, and seeing their reactions and sort of like live feedback to what we were making, Post said. It was really just validating.

Post and her crew received a grant from The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau to help fund the film. The nonprofit recently began heavily promoting Happy Valley as a prime destination for film production.

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We had a lot of meetings and I talked to them about what I was trying to make, Post said. Definitely had to tap into my business side and put all the numbers together. And I mean, 82% of the films budget stayed within the county, so thats how much went back to business or people in the county ... which Im really proud of.

Post is both excited and nervous for the films premiere. But shes settled by the fact that familiar faces will be in the audience. Following the film, there will be a Q&A session where viewers can pick Posts brain about the short film.

The genuine feedback of strangers can be so valuable, Post said. I love when people tell me what they think, even if they didnt like it ... I dont think its art if everybody likes it.

Post is currently in the developmental process of expanding the short film into a feature, and is primarily looking for financing. She hopes the opportunity arises for her to return to Happy Valley with the feature film in the coming years.

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The Wayward will be screened at 10:45 a.m. Sunday at the Rowland Theatre in Philipsburg. Students tickets are free and festival all-access passes to the festival for non-students are $60. Free shuttle services will be offered from the White Building on Penn States campus to the Rowland Theatre.

Find the full transportation and events schedule at centrefilm.org.
ComingSoon Senior Editor Brandon Schreur spoke with Titanic actor Billy Zane about the new timely thriller movie Deadly Vows. Zane discussed how he got involved with the project, why he wanted to be involved with the timely and important film, and more.

Inspired by true events, Deadly Vows is a gripping thriller about love turned lethal. After fleeing the Iran-Iraq war, Darya begins a new life in Los Angeles and is swept off her feet by the charming Sam Lebon, a description of the film reads. But behind his promises of safety lies a violent darkness. As their relationship twists into abuse and control, Darya makes a daring escape, only to discover Sam has ordered her death. Hunted and alone, she must outwit a relentless predator before his vow becomes her execution.

Deadly Vows is now available on digital and on-demand platforms courtesy of Quiver Distribution.

Brandon Schreur: I just watched this movie last night, and I really enjoyed it. Its such an interesting, powerful movie that goes into some different directions than I expected. But I was in for it the whole time. Can you tell me a little bit about how you got involved with this project, Deadly Vows? Whats the story of how you got cast in this movie, and what made you want to play this character?

Billy Zane: A producer I had worked with, named Karmel Bortoleti, who produced a film that I directed called INT.HALLWAY/NIGHT, which is coming out soon, had sent it to me and introduced me to [co-director Bella Bahar Danesh]. And when I realized that this very gripping story about this woman who survives the Iran/Iraq war, who then relocates and starts her life over in Beverly HillsShe gets into a very complex relationship and ultimately finds that she has a price on her head, as perpetrated by her husband. And how she survives that, but more so, how she overcomes the trauma and realization of that tragic turn of events, through the power of forgiveness, is what really moved me about the story. Her survival mechanism was fascinating.

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I think its a lesson that needs to be told today. The fact that its based on true events was equally gripping to me. I wanted to throw in and support this story, and be this kind of calming force in her life, which was Detective Manny, and help her through the physical and logistical journey of survival. He was even moved by her choices and affected by her emotional intelligence in managing it after the fact. I thought those were really cool themes.

Totally. And Ill say, thats something that moved me while watching this. The movie starts, and its about domestic abuse, which is a really heavy, hard topic. And this is very clear that its not something to be swept under the rug. It deals with it in a real, heavy way. I thought there was intensity and truth to that. Bouncing off what you said, when you were reading the script for Deadly Vows for the first time and preparing for this role, was there anything that really stuck out to you like, Yes, this is the moment, we need to make sure that people understand and get this?

Well, there wasnt one particular moment. Though Ive made my share of thrillers and maybe horror, and played some fairly despicable characters, theres always a cautionary tale in there. Theres always a journey and a lesson to be learned. Im not a big fan of celebrating or platforming violence of that nature, especially perpetrated towards women. However, in this case, the fact that its a true story needed to be explored, and the journey of, again, survival. That was the trigger for me. How she processed this, I dont think I would have done the movie or played this role had that not been one, true, and two, how she overcame and survived.

And, like, truly survived. Theres a fairly, I guess, long and consistent record of people, if they physically survive trauma  if theyre not processing, you carry it in your body and it manifests as illness or other forms of tragedy. You have to really purge that process. And thats important to learn. A lot of people overcome, so they think, but if you carry that hate, youre not surviving.

Totally. Because of the subject matter here, I think its fair to say that Deadly Vows is a dark movie. It has a very hopeful message, and its very good in how it presents everything, but, like, its kind of a heavy watch. And Ill tell you, last night after I watched this movie, I went to the theater to see Lynne Ramsays Die My Love. That was a heavy double feature. I came back from that and was like, Oh, man, cinema can be real dark sometimes.

They can. Thats a double whammy. You should have, like, put a screwball comedy on or something much lighter, like Peter Sellers.

Right. But I also think its so important to tell these kinds of stories. And so, my question is, how do you approach something like this as an actor? Like, is it kind of a similar process when youre doing an intense movie like this compared to doing something lighter or a comedy? Or, to get into character for this movie, do you kind of have to go to a dark place?

I mean, the role I played was of a professional detective who has seen a variety of tragedy, trauma, difficulty, and criminality. Hes clearly made it his lifes work to offset that, right those wrongs, and bring people to justice. Help victims through their journey. So, connecting to the nobility of Manny wasnt difficult. It was an honor.

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The key was to create moments of humanity and maybe a little levity  or comic relief, though I dont really want to use that term  to round off a character like that. And also provide elements for the film to kind of exhale and breathe a little bit with little asides and little beats that just give you a break from the heavy stuff.

Yeah, I think that totally comes across so well. That kind of jumps into what I wanted to ask next, because, Billy, youve been around in Hollywood for so long and youve worked with all kinds of legendary directors throughout your career. Im curious what it was like working with the director of this movie, Jared Cohn. I mean, hes done a lot of like action and genres in the past. What did you feel he brought to the table in telling this story, and how was that experience working with him?

Jared was great. Consummate professional. He jumped on for the same reasons. We were all, as they say, grabbing an oar in the same boat, rowing toward the same shore, and for the right reasons. I think he had a take on it that was able to navigate otherwise potentially treacherous waters. Bella had a hand, a strong creative hand, in it; it was her story. I appreciate his emotional intelligence and experience in the process. It was a pleasure to work with him.

Thanks to Billy Zane for taking the time to discuss Deadly Vows.

The post Titanics Billy Zane on Timely Movie Deadly Vows & Its True Story | Interview appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
Katalin Vermes/Lionsgate

Now You See Me: Now You Dont, the third film in the Now You See Me franchise, is a jet-setting adventure flick that takes its characters from New York and Belgium to France and Abu Dhabi. I wanted to hit those same notes of the previous films, where it's a travelogue, director Ruben Fleischer says. And since I'm going to these amazing places, I'm going to try to feature as beautiful and cinematic locations as I can possibly find. When you're doing bank heisting magicians, you want to elevate it as much as possible.

The majority of the production took place in Hungary, primarily in Budapest, in the summer of 2024. Although it was first selected due to budgetary reasons, Hungary offered a lot of compelling locations and great craftsman to build additional sets on soundstages. Once we realized that we were shooting in Hungary, we specifically scripted things to take place in Europe, Fleischer says. Originally, the first act was more New York-based. Instead of trying to create New York in Budapest, we decided to lean into the Europe of it all.

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Now You See Me: Now You Dont not only reunites the original Four Horsemen, a group of renegade magicians (played by Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Isla Fisher, and Dave Franco), but also introduces new characters into the mix. A group of young, budding magiciansJustice Smiths Charlie, Dominic Sessas Bosco and Ariana Greenblatts Juneteam up with the old hats to steal the Heart Diamond from tycoon Veronika Vanderberg (Rosamund Pike). The adventure takes them around the world, eventually ending up in Abu Dhabi.

Now You See Me: Now You Dont Katalin Vermes/Lionsgate

We wanted a big third act and I wanted an escalation from the prior two films, Fleischer says. So if the action started in New York and went to old-world Europe, how could we contrast that? What was really modern city? They went to Asia in the last one. We thought that Abu Dhabi nicely contrasted where we had already been in this film. Here Fleischer breaks down the key locations in Now You See Me: Now You Dont.

South Africa

The Vanderberg family diamond mine is located in South Africa, however the production created the mine in a quarry outside Budapest. We built Veronikas glass structure from scratch and then put it deep into the quarry, Fleischer says. Then with visual effects, we made it seem higher. The quarry was only four levels, but we extended it to around six or eight levels so that it had more height behind her in the shots.

New York City

The Four Horsemen appear to reemerge in a New York City warehouse during a reunion magic show, although its actually Charlie, Bosco, and June doing a neat trick. The scene was shot in a neighborhood of Budapest called Csepel. It was a really cool environment that resembled New York, Fleischer says. It was just some random warehouse that we built that set in. We made it feel like it was an old factory with cement, and we built a proscenium for the stage.

NOW YOU SEE ME: NOW YOU DONT Shane Mahood/Lionsgate

After the show, the young magicians return to their loft apartment, also in New York City. That scene was filmed in Toronto during the films reshoots because Daniel originally was meant to first encounter the trio in a karaoke bar. When we're doing our reshoots, we decided to put it in their apartment because it gave them a bit more of an introduction, Fleischer notes.

Antwerp, Belgium

Although a pivotal sequence takes place in Antwerp, the production only spent three days filming in the Belgian city. Exteriors were shot in Grote Markt and Central Station, while the majority of the action was captured in Budapest using a variety of real-world locations. The party scene, where the Horsemen heist the Heart Diamond from Veronika, was primarily filmed in the central hall of the Museum of Fine Arts in Budapest. The Hungarian State Opera House stood in as the staircase entryway into the party and the former British Embassy, now abandoned, was used as the room where Veronika is photographed with the diamond.

Now You See Me: Now You Dont Katalin Vermes/Lionsgate

I wanted as much production value in the frame as I could, Fleischer says. Whats great about Hungary is they really give you the run of place. There werent many locations that said, You cant do that. For the Museum of Fine Arts, we brought in marble walls. We couldnt move these ancient Roman pieces from the floor so we covered them with plastic boxes. Overall, I wanted as much scale as possible.

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After the Horsemen steal the diamond, Veronikas security team chases them to the roof, where a helicopter is waiting. In a trick of the eye, the helicopter vanishes and the Horseman zip-line down to a waiting boat. The escape scene combined the roof of the Budapest University of Technology and Economics, an ornate building situated along the Danube River, and constructed sets.

We had a boat parked where they came down to the the river and them landing on the boat was all real, Fleischer says. But the actual zip line we did against green screen in a parking lot. The boat sequence was shot on the actual Danube at night. There really is a river in Antwerp, although its a lot flatter there than Budapest, with less hills.

Chateau de Roussillon, France

When the magicians head to France, they discover a mysterious countryside estate that is the former headquarters of The Eye. Its filled with trick-of-the-eye rooms, but from the outside it appears to be an upscale French manor. The production used Nadasdy Castle in Hungary for the exterior and built the interiors on two stages at Stern Studios. One of sets was an Ames room, a distorted space that creates the illusion that people on one side are larger than those on the other. In order to correctly choreograph the stunts that would take place on that set, the team went to the Museum of Illusions Budapest.

Now You See Me: Now You Dont Katalin Vermes/Lionsgate

When the characters fight, they change size and scale, Fleischer says. I knew what an Ames room was, but I didn't really know exactly how the action could work so we went there before we built it.

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One room in the manor spins, so the team built the set into a giant contraption that could mechanically rotate. In another, mirrors cover the walls at specific angles, allowing up to 78 reflections to occur in one frame. The filmmakers created scale models of each room ahead of building the sets, and did a lot of tests to ensure everything created the right illusion. Everything was really trippy, Fleischer says. We had one really cool build that didnt make the final cut that was basically an optical illusion using convex and concave walls to trick you into thinking it looks deeper than it is.

French Police Station

When Lula May (Lizzy Caplan) breaks Merritt out of a jail in rural France, the scenes actually take place in Szentendre, Hungary. The town, located outside of Budapest on the Danube River, is a popular tourist attraction. It was used for the exterior of the police station. The interior were filmed in an closed-down local museum, although the jail cells were additions. Szentendre is this really charming Medieval village thats only about a half hour north of Budapest, Fleischer says. The museum had some rooms, but we built other rooms on it as well.

Abi Dhabi

After wrapping in Europe, the production relocated to Abu Dhabi for three weeks of filming. They shot both in the city and in the nearby desert, where Dune: Part Two also happened to be working. They did all their desert sand stuff there too, Fleischer says. I'd never experienced that degree of rolling sand.

In the film, the Horsemen journey to Abu Dhabi during an F1 race, where Veronika is preparing to showcase her racing team. The track was a real one, located at the W Abu Dhabi Yas Island. The hotel is built over the track and the viewing bridge became Veronikas suite, where she eventually captures the original Horsemen in a cage they have to escape. As they battle to free themselves (a scene that was done on a set), the younger magicians steal Veronikas car.

Now You See Me: Now You Dont Katalin Vermes/Lionsgate

The driving scenes were done on the streets of Abu Dhabi, which was really cool, Fleisher says. Traditionally, F1 vehicles go on tracks and I had never seen a chase with an F1 car on the streets. The F1 storyline got integrated once we found this crazy W hotel. We were like, Oh, she has a race team and that's why they have to go there. It was a bit of reverse engineering the story to fit the location.

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Of course, there is more to it than initially meets the eye. After things go haywire at the race track, Veronika believes she is being driven to the Vanderberg vault, located 40 stories under the desert of Abu Dhabi. There she has a final showdown with Charliea moment that has been faked by the Horsemen. The vault scene was shot in an abandoned gas silo in Hungary and production design added the replica of a stolen Caravaggio painting to one of the walls. That supposedly was one of the most valuable paintings that has ever been stolen, so we put it in his vault as if there was illegal art stuff in there, Fleisher notes.

Eventually, it is revealed to Veronika that its a trick. The climatic scene, a magic show put on by the Horseman, was filmed at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, in an outdoor space that spans an impressive water feature. The filmmakers added a stage to amp up the visual spectacle.

We really wanted them to be on a stage for that final moment with the reveal, Fleischer says. If you think of the first movie, which is the the one that establishes them, they are Vegas-style stage magicians. We had the opening show in the warehouse, but then everything else is more heist-y and it's not as performative. Doing the scene in the Louvre gave us the most incredible cinematic location we could think of to stage a performance.

He adds of using so many real places, The locations contribute so much to the film and inform their journey. We are taking these kids from a shitty warehouse in Brooklyn on this whole adventure and by the end theyre on a magnificent stage in Abu Dhabi. It feels like theyve graduated from small scale to big, international scale.

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Originally Appeared on Conde Nast Traveler

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As the Florida Strawberry Festival returns to Plant City for its 91st year, the theme for 2026 is Still Growing!"

And so is the musical lineup  although now we have a hint at some of the headliners.

The 2025 festivities brought in over 600,000 attendees, with musicians including Reba McEntire and Nelly adding to the festivals rosteralongside the livestock shows, rides and strawberry cuisine.

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The 2026 lineup promises country stars new and old,including Dierks Bentley and Riley Green,as well as contemporary Christian artists like Lauren Daigle and some punk rock flair from the Offspring.

The Florida Strawberry Festival will take place from Feb. 26 through March 8. Advance tickets go on sale at 8 a.m. on Dec. 11 at the Amscot Main Ticket Office at 2209 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City, online at flstrawberryfestival.com or by phone at 813-754-1996.

More artists will be announced in the coming weeks. Let us know in the comments who youd like to see added to the list.

Florida Strawberry Festival lineup for 2026

Thursday, Feb. 26

10:30 a.m. Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra

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3:30 p.m. The Oak Ridge Boys

7:30 p.m. Alabama

Friday, Feb. 27

3:30 p.m. Jo Dee Messina

7:30 p.m. Jamey Johnson

Saturday, Feb.28

3:30 p.m. Lonestar

7:30 p.m. Ty Myers

Sunday, March 1

6:30 p.m. Riley Green featuring Hannah McFarland

Monday, March 2

3:30 p.m. Gene Watson

7:30 p.m. To be announced

Tuesday, March 3

3:30 p.m. Sandi Patty

7:30 p.m. Lauren Daigle

Wednesday, March 4

3:30 p.m. John Foster

7:30 p.m. Brantley Gilbert

Thursday, March 5

10:30 a.m. Bill Haley Jr. & The Comets

3:30 p.m. The Bellamy Brothers

7:30 p.m. Dierks Bentley

Friday, March 6

3:30 p.m. The Marshall Tucker Band

7:30 p.m. Forrest Frank

Saturday, March 7

3:30 p.m. To be announced

7:30 p.m. The Offspring

Sunday, March 8

7:30 p.m. To be announced
JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV)  The Grammys nominated four Mississippi artists for awards that could further show the country why the state is known as the birthplace of Americas music.

Music from the National Folk Festival was a musical highlight for November. However, Mississippi musicians Charlie Musselwhite, Jamal Roberts, Bobby Rush and Haley Williams may also take the stage for Mississippi this upcoming February. Below is an overview of the artists and what the academy nominated them for.

Muni Long, from left, Jamal Roberts, and Tamar Braxton perform during the BET Awards on Monday, June 9, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Jamal Roberts

Birthplace: Meridian

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Best Gospel/Performance Song

Jackson hosts 82nd National Folk Fest with 300+ performers

FILE  Hayley Williams of Paramore performs at the Bud Light Super Bowl Music Fest in Phoenix on Feb. 9, 2023. Paramores Crave was named one of the top songs of the year by The Associated Press. (Photo by Rick Scuteri/Invision/AP, File)

Hayley Williams

Birthplace: Meridian

Best Rock Performance

Best Rock Song

Best Alternative Music Performance

Best Alternative Music Album

Bobby Rush poses in the press room with the award for best traditional blues album for All My Love for You during the 66th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)

Bobby Rush

Birthplace: Homer, Louisiana

Best Traditional Blues Album

Charlie Musselwhite performs during the Sixth Annual Jammy Awards at the Theater at Madison Square Garden Thursday, April 20, 2006 in New York. This years Jammy Awards kick off the four-day Green Apple Music and Arts Festival, which celebrates Earth Day. (AP Photo/Jason DeCrow)

Charlie Musselwhite

Birthplace: Kosciusko

Best Traditional Blues Album

To see if these four Mississippians will win up to six awards, tune in to the 2026 Grammys on CBS on Sunday, February 1, 2026.

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Limp Bizkit will not head to Estonia next year, with the bands show in the Baltic capital of Tallinn canceled after Fred Dursts old pro-Russia comments resurfaced online.

The band was set to play the Unibet Arena in Tallinn on May 31, 2026, but the events Facebook page has since been changed to Canceled. According to Estonias public broadcaster, ERR, the gig was first postponed, with hopes of finding a new date, before pre-sale tickets were made available on Monday.

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But eventually, the shows promoter, Baltic Live Agency, chose to cancel the gig outright. We inform you that due to circumstances beyond the organizers control, the Limp Bizkit concert planned for May 31, 2026, is canceled, they said in a statement. Our apologies!

Reps for Baltic Live Agency and Limp Bizkit did not immediately return Rolling Stones requests for comment.

Almost immediately after the Tallinn show was announced on Nov. 7, there was swift backlash over Dursts history of pro-Russia stances. For instance, in 2015, after Russias annexation of Crimea, Durst spoke about his desire to obtain a Russian passport, wrote a letter to Crimean authorities calling Vladimir Putin a great guy with clear moral principles, and held up a sign on stage that read Crimea=Russia.

At the time, Durst was married to Kseniya Beryazina, a Russian make-up artist from Crimea. (They divorced in 2019.) Dursts comments also resulted in Limp Bizkit being banned from Ukraine for five years.

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In response to Limp Bizkits Tallinn show, Estonias Minister of Foreign Affairs, Margus Tsahkna, said: My position is clear, and I will repeat it: Russia is the aggressor, and Crimea is occupied by Russia. Those who justify Russias aggression and the occupation of a neighboring country are not welcome in Estonia. They have no place on Estonian stages and should not be earning income here.

The Ministry of Culture also reportedly contacted concert organizers, with a spokesperson saying, It is unacceptable for people to perform in Estonia who support a state whose president is the subject of an international arrest warrant.

At the time Baltic Live Agency, tried to minimize the fallout, with its media director, Gunnar Viese, telling ERR, The only way we can explain it is that at the time [until 2019], Fred Durst was married to a Russian Crimean woman and evidently living in a distorted information bubble.

In explaining why Baltic Live Agency booked the band, Viese cited Limp Bizkits recent history of concerts in countries that back Estonia and Ukraine over Russia, such as Germany, Austria, and Poland. He also noted that Durst has not made any overtly political statements about Russia, or the war in Ukraine. While Durst did tell Russian fans he hoped to see them soon on social media in 2024, those comments were seen as standard communication between artist and fan.

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[Warning: The below contains MAJOR spoilers for Fire Country Season 4 Episode 5 Happy First Day, Manny.]

Theres quite a bit to enjoy in the Friday, November 14, episode of Fire Country. Station 42s new battalion chief is keeping it in the family with Manny (Kevin Alejandro) filling in the spot left open with Vinces death. We even like that he and Sharon (Diane Farr) clash over changes hes making (the coffee!) and whos in charge during a call. Eve (Jules Latimer) comes up with a plan involving chickens to help build up Three Rock again. W. Earl Brown brings Wes Fox over from Sheriff Country, for some family time with Sharon and Bode (Max Thieriot). And speaking of those Leones, mother and son finally talk, sharing what theyve been keeping from one another.

Now that Jake (Jordan Calloway) has told Bode about the note blackmailing Vince from an R, whom he and Eve think is his ex, Renee (Constance Zimmer), he wants him to tell his mom. But instead, Bode decides to search the house and finds a PO Box key. He hides it from her, but Sharons also keeping something from him: the fact that ATF thinks someone deliberately set the fire that led to his dads death. As she explains to Manny, she doesnt want to tell Bode something that will unleash an anger in him.

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Eve, meanwhile, pushes Jake to tell Bode to tell his mom, but the captain doesnt want to ruin the fact that theyve just gotten back onto speaking terms (after Bode blamed Jake for keeping him from going back into the fire that killed his dad). But it does come up on their way to a call, with Jake testing the waters in pointing out that Vince was a great man but nobodys perfect; Bode refuses to even acknowledge the possibility of Vince having an affair since he worshipped Sharon.

During the course of responding to a fire at the drive-in, Bode can see somethings going on with Sharon and Manny and his mom is hiding something, and Jake calls him out on the irony of it. He finally tells Bode that he needs to tell Sharon. Eve agrees. And when Bode clues in Wes on the situation, Sharons stepfather agrees with Jake to tell his mom, play offense, and use his whole team, including Sharon and his friend. Good ones tell you what you dont want to hear, Wes reminds Bode.

And so when Jake gets home, its to Bode moving back in. He also didnt check out the PO Box, agreeing that his father wasnt perfect and had his secrets. He then heads to his moms to tell her about it. But first, Sharon tells him about the ATF investigation and makes sure he knows he cant go all vigilante. Then, Bode shows her the note. But Sharon assures him Vince wasnt having an affair. Rather, the fact that she would extort him for money and hed get into this position with her  So, whos she? Shes my mother, Sharon reveals, teeing up Christine Lahtis debut as Ruby in the November 21 episode.

What did you think of the latest episode? What do you think of that tease about Sharons mom? Let us know in the comments section below.

Fire Country, Fridays, 9/8c, CBS

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When the name Saint Patrick comes to mind, many people conjure images of leprechauns and rowdy celebrations. However, the fifth-century icon is known for much more than just the festivities that take place today in honor of his name.

As a vastly influential Christian figure in Europe and across the world, his story is now being told by none other than Martin Scorsese.

The second season of Fox Nation's "The Saints" debuts on November 16 with an episode spotlighting the life of Saint Patrick and his role in Christian history.

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The debut episode chronicles Patrick's life as a teenager when Irish invaders attacked his home in Britain where he lived with his father, a deacon. He was captured and enslaved, spending six long years as a shepherd  but during that time, he also deepened ties with his faith, which would ultimately come to define him.

Martin Scorsese Returns To Fox Nation This Fall With Powerful New Season Of 'The Saints'

A statue of Saint Patrick in Saint Patrick's Church in Toronto, Ontario, Canada is displayed on Jan. 27, 2018.

After escaping and making the long trek back to Britain, he would later return to Ireland once more to spread his Christian beliefs and dedicate his life to the cause. He became the most successful Irish bishop to evangelize his people  having been dubbed "the Apostle of Ireland"  and his efforts are credited with the establishment of many schools, churches and monasteries, cementing his legacy.

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His two most famous religious works are the Confessio, a collection of his personal writings chronicling his early life and time spent enslaved, and the Letter to Coroticus, in which he criticized Britain's mistreatment of Irish Christians, calling for their freedom.

Stars Unite As Fox Nations Patriot Awards Gear Up To Honor The Heart And Heroism Of America

Martin Scorseses daughter, Francesca Scorsese, made her Fox Nation directorial debut with an episode of "Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints."

Saint Patrick had many legends associated with him  one of the most well-known being his description of the Holy Trinity, which he famously compared to a shamrock because of the plant's distinct three leaves. Due to the widespread nature of the teaching, the Irish wear shamrocks on Saint Patrick's Day to pay tribute to him.

Ahead of the release of the highly anticipated new season of "The Saints," its acclaimed director, Martin Scorsese, hosted a premiere at the Whitby Hotel in midtown Manhattan on Monday where St. Patrick's episode first aired.



Joined by his daughter Francesca and executive producer Matti Leshem, the trio previewed what to expect this season, and shared how their faith inspired them to create the acclaimed series.

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Martin Scorsese Says His New Fox Nation Series 'The Saints' Was A Story He Always Wanted To Tell

Parade viewers wave flags and cheer on marchers during the annual St. Patrick's Day & Evacuation Day Parade in Boston, Massachusetts on March 16, 2025.

"For many years, I dreamed of telling stories of the lives of the saints," Scorsese previously said. "Its been an obsession of mine for as long as I can remember. So the chance to do this series meant the world to me, and its heartening to know that people have responded to it. Im very excited to be coming back for a second season."



Fox Nation subscribers can now stream St. Patrick's episode of "Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints."

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FOX Nation programs are viewable on demand and from your mobile device app but only for FOX Nation subscribers. Go to FOX Nation to start a free trial and watch the extensive library from your favorite FOX Nation personalities.

Fox News' Brian Flood contributed to this report.





Original article source: Martin Scorsese explores the legacy of St. Patrick to kick off new season of Fox Nations The Saints
Individuals named Elija are typically characterized by strong moral convictions, spiritual depth, and natural leadership qualities. They often exhibit a blend of traditional values and modern adaptability, making them respected figures in their social circles. Their name suggests a person of principle who stands firmly for their beliefs, much like the biblical prophet who challenged religious corruption and restored true worship. This spiritual foundation often translates into practical wisdom and the ability to guide others through difficult situations.



Beyond their spiritual inclinations, Elijas are frequently described as passionate, determined, and resilient. They possess an inner strength that helps them overcome challenges and a natural charisma that inspires those around them. Many demonstrate excellent communication skills and a genuine concern for others' wellbeing, often taking on mentoring or counseling roles. Their combination of faith and practicality allows them to navigate complex situations with both compassion and effectiveness, making them valuable members of their communities and families.
Q: I am a Catholic woman who is engaged to be married this

summer. My fiance, who is divorced, does consider himself Catholic but is not practicing and never attends services with me. Several months ago, I approached one of the priests in my parish about our wedding and asked to have our services at a catering hall and to have it performed by a priest. I advised the priest that my fiance was Catholic but not practicing. He then asked me if he had been baptized, and I told him that he was. The priest then informed me that the ceremony must be performed in a church. I then advised him that my fiance had been divorced and that I thought he could not re-marry in a church. He informed me that it could be discussed. All this leaves me with the chore of finding an officiant, possibly a justice of the peace, when my desire is to have a priest perform the ceremony.

I thought that since I am a documented parishioner of my parish, they wouldnt turn me away, or at least discuss other options with me instead of giving me a flat out, No. Now my question: Was I informed correctly by my parish priest? Isnt it common now for many people to get married at offsite locations? Also, what are the stipulations, if any, of a person who is divorced, in getting married in a church? Any assistance you can provide would be much appreciated.  (From J)

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A: God, I wish Father Tom was not dead! Dear J, you need a priest not a rabbi to help you, but I will share with you what I have been taught. If what I tell you does not check out with a priest, just tell him, I should never have asked Rabbi Gellman!

The priest you spoke to told you the truth of Catholic wedding practice. First of all, if your fiance married and divorced a Catholic woman, then he cannot be married by a priest in any place unless and until his previous marriage is officially annulled by the Church (or if she has died). Then, if the marriage is annulled, you two can indeed be married by a priest, but generally only in your parish church.

I understand this Church practice. Marriage is a sacrament, and churches are places for sacraments. Catering halls are places for eating chopped liver on little crackers. However, some dioceses have loosened up a bit on the offsite wedding rules.

The diocese of Montana and the diocese of Baltimore have begun, in the past few years, to authorize offsite weddings officiated at by clergy. So unless you plan on a Montana/Baltimore move, my advice is to get an annulment and then get married in your parish church.

If this is too complicated for you and your guests, here is an idea: Get married privately in the church and then have a renewal of vows ceremony in the catering hall for all your guests. That way you can have your sacrament and your chopped liver, too.
With so many Americans burnt out from U.S. hustle culture and high living costs, expats are finding that Panama is a solution for their long-awaited golden years.

Alan Wells, 73, counts himself among the Americans whove looked abroad for a simpler, more affordable retirement.

Wells, retired for 14 years, took up a permanent residence in Boquete, Panama, in 2015. In 2016, he bought what he described as a modest 900-square-foot house in a neighborhood about 30 miles from the Costa Rican border. After purchasing it for around $100,000, he immediately doubled the homes size to around 2,000 square feet.

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Its probably worth a couple of hundred thousand dollars today, he said.

As many retirees debate moving abroad, Wells shared his perspective with Fortune on how the experience overseas has been for him.

Why make the move?

Growing up in Cincinnati, Ohio, Wells had never been to a foreign country before his move to Panama, but said his experience was magical when he moved.

His daughters weddings in Panama introduced him to the community, and after meeting a widow at one of the receptions, Wells began considering a move to Central America as a single retiree.

They [my daughters] decided they preferred the U.S. to Panama; I decided I prefer Panama to the U.S. So we switched, Wells said. I tell them, Thank you for your welfare contributions to my Social Security fund so that I can live down there.

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Throughout his career, Wells spent most of his time in Memphis, Tennessee, at FedEx. After moving to Panama, Wells used to spend just a week each year in Louisville, Kentucky.

But life changessuch as COVID and grandkidsturned him into a snowbird. Today, he commutes between Louisville and Boquete twice a year, spending six to nine months in Panama a year now.

Courtesy of Alan Wells

Can you afford more in Panama than in the U.S.?

That depends on the particular the part of the U.S., he said. Panama is not a great deal different spending-wise compared to Louisville. However, he said if he lived in a bigger city, such as Miami or Los Angeles, it would be different.

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Housing in Louisville is about 20% cheaper than the U.S. average, where the typical household spends $61,334 a year and roughly $1,784 a month on housing. In L.A., the cost of living is about 49% higher than the national average.

Wells said he has friends who moved to Panama from L.A. because they couldnt afford to live there anymore, and a now living very nicely.

I can afford a great deal more in Panama than I can in the U.S., but I do maintain residences in both countries, he explained, adding that, $500 is my cost of living, plus food, in Panama.

The rest of his expenses in Panama are as follows:

Home insurance: $300 per year

Car: $250 per year

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Electric bill: $40 a month

Trash and water: $11 a month

Internet: $70 a month (includes cable)

One important factor in his expenses in Panama is that Wells does not pay for heat or air conditioning, because the climate is perfect.

Meanwhile, his U.S. expenses are three to four times higher. Annually, he pays roughly $1,000 for homeowners insurance, $1,500 in property taxes, and about $1,000 for car insurance.

How long did the process take to become a permanent resident?

Wells said the process in total took him about seven to eight months to complete (including paperwork, background checks, income verification, and flights to Panama City for the final government appointments).

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Especially for those retiring, recent shifts in visa rules, tax policies, and local costs mean the process is more complex than youd think, experts say.

In order to get a residency in Panama, Wells said you have to demonstrate a minimum income of $1,000 a month. His income is split evenly between Social Security payments, investment returns, and required minimum IRA distributions.

How did you spend your days when you moved compared to now?

The first few years in Panama, Wells spent most of his time exploring the mountains of the country. Today, he goes to the gym, and links his computer systems (as an IT guy) from Kentucky to Panama.

The culture in Panama reminds him of his Southern lifestyle back home.

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Panamas the size of Tennessee, so in the first few years you travel a lot theres a lot to see, he said. Its a very small, very narrow country, but you go from plains to mountains to coastline, its awesome.

In fact, he can reach the Pacific Ocean in about an hour and the Caribbean in about three.

How do you prepare for language barriers and medical care?

Wells said medical care is cheap and sufficient for certain things, but good and cheap is not really a thing.

If something serious happened, my kids would put me on an airplane and take me back to the States, he added.

For the language barrier, Wells said he is disappointed he hasnt learned as much Spanish as he hoped, but any educated Panamanian learns English as a mandatory second language, and most adults I meet speak some English.

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A successful retirement or move overseas requires careful planning, thorough research, and flexibility to navigate evolving financial, legal, and lifestyle challenges. Wells advice: Dont jump in. You really want to take a couple of sample trips before you make any decisions.

People come down here, take a tour, buy a house, and then realize theyre 4,200 feet up a mountain and freezing every night, he said.

We stayed in a little casita just to see how things were and to look around at the real estate to find something we could actually live in.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Each state boasts its very own oldest restaurant, and Pennsylvania's is McGillin's Olde Ale House in Philadelphia. While it isn't as old as the White Horse Tavern in Rhode Island  America's oldest restaurant  McGillin's has been operating for a long time, as far back as 1860. Isn't it interesting to think you can go for a beer somewhere that opened the same year Abraham Lincoln was elected?

Since it's been around for so long, McGillin's has become a staple in Philadelphia. One of the most underrated cities in the States, Philadelphia is a city in which around 10% of residents claim Irish heritage. Thus, it's no wonder that this old Irish bar is a firm favorite among locals and visitors alike. With McGillin being a name of Irish origin, you would assume that the people who originally opened this establishment were Irish  and you'd be correct.

In 1860, the tavern was opened by Catherine and William McGillin, who were both Irish immigrants. Originally called the Bell in Hand Tavern, Catherine and William, who were known fondly as "Ma" and "Pa," raised their 13 kids above the bar. Patrons came to give the tavern the nickname "McGillin's," which would later become the official name of the establishment.

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Read more: One Of West Virginia's Best-Kept Secrets Is A Train Ride Through A Canyon You Can't Reach By Car

Grab a bite to eat, a beer, and a taste of history at McGillin's

The bar inside McGillin's Olde Ale House with drinkers and TV screens - theartofliving.nyc / Instagram

It was in the year 1910, the 50th anniversary of the restaurant, that it officially became McGillin's Olde Ale House, with a new facade to match the new name. Surviving both World Wars as well as Prohibition, McGillin's became a real tour de force in Philadelphia. It wasn't until 1958, years after the deaths of both Ma and Pa McGillin, that the establishment would leave the McGillin family. Purchased by brothers Henry Spaniak and Joe Shepaniak, the restaurant remains in that family today.

Today, McGillin's is a must-visit for anyone traveling through Philadelphia. The restaurant has become a modern watering hole, with food and drink specials every day of the week. However, the interior of the restaurant rings true to its roots and history. Signs of iconic stores and bars throughout the ages in Philadelphia adorn the walls of the old tavern, a reminder of a collection that began growing way back at the end of the 19th century.

A great spot for beer enthusiasts, McGillin's even has three of its very own beers that guests can sample  McGillin's Real Ale, McGillin's Genuine Lager, and McGillin's 1860 IPA. And given its central location, McGillin's is an easy detour for those exploring downtown Philadelphia. For example, it's a great stopover on the way to Brewerytown, one of Philadelphia's coolest neighborhoods that's brimming with breweries, located just 20 minutes away from McGillin's by car. The Reading Terminal Market is also on the list of unmissable stops in Philadelphia, and McGillin's is only an 8-minute walk from there.

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Read the original article on Islands.
Calling NOT A HOTEL properties timeshares feels like a misnomer, but thats exactly what they are. Ownership of the high-end Japanese vacation properties is divided into fractional shares and owners, through a proprietary app, are able to book out dates in their own villas (and other villas in the network) as well as charter company-owned yachts or reserve private Michelin-starred chefs for their stays. Were just thinking about providing the best architecture with the best experiences and services, says founder and CEO Shinji Hamauzu. Now a thriving network of 33 properties across Japan with over a thousand owners, NOT A HOTEL is the villa rental company you need on your radar now.

Here are a few of their most remarkable properties.

Earth, by Sou Fujimoto

Photo: Newcolor inc.

When asked about the design for Earth, architect Sou Fujimoto says it was born from the resonance between our initial inspiration, Not a Hotels grand vision, the process of exchanging opinions, and the gentle, rich world that existed there. Consistent with his modus operandibreaking down boundaries between structure and landscapehe designed this circular villa in response to the tropical climate and beaches of tiny Ishigaki Island, which lies 1,250 miles southwest of Tokyo. The 7--bedroom house is shared among 12 owners. During their months worth of time, they can try their hand at distilling their own awamori, a distilled rice spirit made in the Okinawa region; reserve a private cruise on a sabani, a traditional sailboat; or book a private dinner with live sanshin music.

Toji, by Suppose Design Office

Photo: Kenta Hasegawa/Newcolor inc.

With the purchase of a $500,000 share of Not a Hotels Toji, owners gain access to one of five villas in Minakami for 30 days each year. Created by Suppose Design Office, a Japanese design firm known for its experimental approach, the structures offer a contemporary take on the age-old concept of a hot spring village. Each of the reddish structures, clad in -ichimonji-buki, a traditional kind of Japanese -copper plating, features a private natural hot spring bath, an infinity pool, and a sauna. Its really not about whether the place is famous or not, its about the beauty and excellence of the site itself, says Not a Hotels founder and CEO, Shinji Hamauzu, of his selection process.

Base M, by Yosuke Aizawa

At the foot of Mount Asama in Kitakaruizawa, Yosuke Aizawa designed a series of three bases, a term befitting his fashion label, White Mountaineering. Typically a collaborator with major fashion brands such as Moncler or Adidas, here Aizawa translated his chic outerwear vocabulary into steel-clad homes. Each structureBase S, Base M, and Base Lfeatures a stocked miniature convenience store, an outdoor fireplace, and a sauna, as well as a private restaurant shared among the three properties. Following Aizawa, Not a Hotel has partnered with some big fashion names, with future projects by Nigo and Pharrell Williams in the works for 2027.

Setouchi, by Bjarke Ingels Group

Photo: Kenta Hasegawa/Newcolor inc.

At first, when the Bjarke Ingels Group reached out to Not a Hotel, Hamauzu thought it was an impostor sending the email. After he accepted that it was in fact Bjarke Ingelsa global force in modern architectureboth teams quickly got to work, with the entire design for the Sagi Island site completed in 11 months. The trio of villas are named after the degrees of view they offer: 180, 270, and 360. Curved walls and hidden courtyards mimic the islands seascape and hidden coves on Japans Seto Inland Sea. Owners can reserve an 80-foot yacht or dinner on a yakatabune, a traditional houseboat, both vessels also designed by Not a Hotel.

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A version of this story originally appeared in the November 2025 issue of Elle Decor.

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There are plenty of options for getting a live Christmas tree, but what about one that's so fresh, it's still in the ground?

Christmas tree farms will soon be reopening in the Augusta area for the holiday season. Not only do these make for great photo ops, but you can get your lumberjack on and cut the tree down yourself if you'd like. If not, that's fine, the staff will cut it down for you. Here are four we found opening nearby and what to expect:

Rows of trees grow at Gay's Christmas Tree Farm in Augusta, GA.

Gay's Christmas Tree Farm

2335 Tobacco Rd, Augusta

Opening 9 a.m. Nov. 22, Gay's Christmas Tree Farm is growing Murray Cypress and Carolina Sapphire as well as pre-harvested Douglas and Fraser Fir. The prices are the same as last year at about $11 per foot. The farm is open 2 p.m. until dark Monday-Thursday, 2-7 p.m. Fridays, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays, and 1 p.m. until dark Sundays. For more info, go to gayschristmastreefarm.com.

A little girl plays with a tree growing at Still Creek Tree Farm in Beech Island, SC.

Still Creek Tree Farm

442 Pine Log Rd, Beech Island, SC

Opening noon Nov. 21, Still Creek Tree Farm has seven different varieties in the Pine and Cyprus families ranging in price from $5 to $10 per foot. They also have imported, fresh-cut Fraser Firs at or below market price. The farm also puts on hayrides and visits with Santa Claus, but you'll have to stay tuned to their Facebook or Instagram. Still Creek will be open 3:30-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, noon-5:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, and by appointment.

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Holiday Newsletter: Get the latest news on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's from Augusta Chronicle

Santa Claus poses for a photograph at Clarks Hill Christmas Tree Farm in Clarks Hill, SC.

Clarks Hill Christmas Tree Farm

39 Bennie Dorn Rd, Clarks Hill, SC

Opening Nov. 22, Clarks Hill Christmas Tree Farm has a range of trees from Leyland Cypress and Carolina Saphire to Red Cedar and Clemson Greenspire. Those 7-9 feet average about $10 per foot, with higher prices for the bigger trees. The farm will be open 2-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, and 1-5:30 p.m. Sunday. For more info, go to clarkshillchristmastreefarm.com.

Tom Sawyer poses for a photograph at Tom Sawyer's Christmas Trees in Monetta, SC.

Tom Sawyer's Christmas Trees

402 Uncle Duck Rd, Monetta, SC

Opening 1 p.m. Nov. 23, Tom Sawyer's Christmas Trees grow several different types of tree like Thuja Green Giant, Blue Ice, and White Pine as well as having Fraser Firs from North Carolina. Prices vary depending on the size and kind of tree you want, but they all generally start at 6 or 7 feet between $50-$80 for all but the Fraser Firs which start at $140. The farm will be marking the beginning of their season with a special blessing of the trees. For more info, go to tomsawyerschristmastrees.com.

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Miguel Legoas is a Deep South Connect Team Reporter for Gannett/USA Today. Find him on Instagram @miguelegoas and email at mlegoas@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Augusta-area Christmas tree farms opening 2025. Where and how much?
You may have noticed that some Toyotas in the 1990s had gold badges that stood out in the sea of usual silver. If you're wondering if it means anything beyond looking stylish, you may be let down. Drivers from the 1990s recall seeing these golden badges on certain Toyota models that had a "Gold Package." But these Gold Package versions were less about improved performance upgrades and more about making a statement.

So how much did it cost to have a Gold Package version? One owner claims it cost $500 more back in the 1990s  a pretty large sum just to have a golden status symbol on your car. Still, it was one way to make your car stand out, since Toyota apparently chose its most popular models to get the Gold Package treatment. This included Camry, Corolla, and Land Cruiser vehicles. Think of it sort of like the tri-color badge on some off-roading Toyota models  it's meant to represent a certain spirit rather than a physical upgrade.

Read more: 10 Of The Worst-Looking Cars Ever Designed

The meaning behind Toyota's logo

gold toyota badge on steering wheel - Roman foto art/Shutterstock

The current Toyota logo that we all know debuted in 1989, right before the golden trend took over. It was meant to celebrate the brand's 50th anniversary, with the two inner ovals meant to represent the heart of the company and its customers. Toyota explained that the ovals overlap to represent how the company and its customers have a trust between one another. Meanwhile, the outer oval represents the entire world "embracing" Toyota.

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Toyota chose to keep the design simple in its appearance, with the empty space representing its "infinite values." These values include quality, going beyond expectations, creating a joyful driving experience, innovating, integrating safety, and protecting the environment. It's not for everyone, but a gold version of this symbol carries more weight and emphasis on these meanings while also acting as a status symbol for drivers with extra cash all those decades ago.

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Read the original article on SlashGear.
It may have been built with Eurovision in mind, but on Wednesday the Festhalle in Bern, Switzerland, played host to a far more important occasion  for turophiles. For the first time in the events 37 year history, the World Cheese Awards took place in Switzerland, in many peoples eyes the home of cheese.

It may come as no surprise that a home cheese won. For the second time in four years, a gruyere was named the worlds best. With a beautiful dark orange rind and powerful umami notes, the 18-month aged cheese (catchily named Gruyere AOP Vorderfultigen spezial) overcame stiff competition, including from three British cheeses in the top 14.

For three days, Switzerlands capital became the capital of cheese, with a record 5,244 entries (the first time the 5,000 barrier has been broken) from 46 countries and hundreds of global experts, from cheesemakers and mongers to importers, affineurs, writers and cheese-loving comedian Marcus Brigstocke, convening to crown this years best fromage.

A record 5,244 entries were put to the test by 265 judges - Guild of Fine Food (KARGO Kommunikation)

Cheese writer Patrick McGuigan praised the winning cheese, describing the aroma as having a real beefiness. He said: When you taste it its savoury, its deep, its umami. Perry Wakeman, a head judge at the awards, chief executive of cheesemonger Rennet & Rind and widely considered Britains best affineur, said the cheese was familiar, like all the Swiss alpine cheeses many will have tried, but dialled up to 13. He said: Its a big old cheese. The texture is beautiful, flinty, the crystals are so delicate. I kept going back for it. Its the kind of cheese that gets people into cheese. I think thats what makes this cheese special, it would get people excited about cheese from whatever walk of life.

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Pius Hitz of Bergkaserei Vorderfultigen, which makes the winning cheese, described himself as honoured and proud. Considering almost 20 per cent of the entered products were locally made, it really was no shock that a Swiss cheese won; in the end, four Swiss cheeses were listed in the top six.

While the World Cheese Awards are often criticised for a strong showing from the home country  the host has won five of the past seven events, one outlier being a champion gruyere in Wales in 2022  local cheeses, having travelled less distance, often arrive in better condition. Last year, despite not winning, two Swiss alpine cheeses finished joint second, and they are usually present on the podium.

Judges from 46 countries were split into teams of two or three, each sampling around 45 cheeses - Guild of Fine Food (KARGO Kommunikation)

The cheeses were evaluated on appearance, texture, aroma and, primarily, taste - Guild of Fine Food (KARGO Kommunikation)

Britain has arguably one of Europes most thriving cheese industries, and after being entirely absent from the event in 2024, three of its cheeses were recognised in the top 14 this year. Pave Cobble, a soft sheeps milk cheese from White Lake in Somerset, scored highly, as did Sparkenhoe Red Leicester.

But it was another Leicestershire cheese, aged Rutland Red from Long Clawson Dairy, that was Britains top cheese, finishing joint eighth. McGuigan described it as having an amazing colour, sort of sunset red. He added that the flavours were interesting, quite a lot of yogurt and acidity, a bit of roasted nuts, it was quite fresh. According to Canadian judge Nick Tsioros, the complexity of flavours was really nice, it was sharp, caramel, nutty; it inspired me to want to eat more. While no British cheese has won outright since 2017, when Cornish Kern was victorious, they are a routine fixture in the top spots.

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Throughout the day, the 265 judges from 46 countries were split into teams of two or three, each sampling around 45 cheeses. I was one of them, evaluating the entries on appearance, texture, aroma and, primarily, taste, and handing each cheese a bronze, silver and gold medal  or nothing at all.

One of the entries at the World Cheese Awards 2025 - Guild of Fine Food (KARGO Kommunikation)

Judging alongside a Swiss cheesemaker and a Uruguayan cheese expert, I faced a mixed bag at our table. One had a vaguely toilet-like ammonia whiff, while a Swiss tete de moine (judging is blind, but with some cheeses its obvious) was style over substance. One truffle-flavoured number was awful, with a crumbly texture somewhere between Styrofoam and rice cakes. A jet black, charcoal-enriched cheese was an abomination.

But there were hits, too. A tiny, camembert-style cheese made with sheep and goats milk was a delicate delight, and a litany of Swiss mountain cheeses impressed. Each of the 110 tables must pick a super gold, to be judged by the super jury, and our table deliberated between two finalists, a sweet, nutty alpine cheese and a rather unique hard cow and goats cheeses washed in cider  you could taste the booze in the cheese. Ultimately, the more classic (and probably Swiss) option won out.

Each year, there are more  and more interesting  cheeses. From blue cheeses coated in dark chocolate to cheeses flavoured with all sorts of herbs and spices, there is an experimental streak taking hold in the cheese world, and a petal-coated soft French cheese scored highly, finishing second.

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John Farrand, the managing director of the British-based Guild of Fine Food, which organises the event, said: The host country scoops the biggest prize in cheese again. Perhaps it is that our judges are immersed in the terroir of the nation, perhaps it is the simple fact that the cheese has less far to travel, but the reality is that this cheese has won through our multi-layered and robust blind-tasting judging process and ended up achieving the highest score, impressing the super jury from 14 different nations.

Farrand added he was delighted by Britains strong showing, after none of its cheeses made last years event in Portugal due to Brexit-related border issues. Its perhaps an indication that British cheesemakers continue to not only innovate but consistently make high quality cheeses that are impressing the judges.

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Sleek, black and evil in appearance, the SR-71 Blackbird was THE masterpiece of Cold War engineering.

Flying faster and higher than any fighter, this stealthy reconnaissance aircraft could snoop where it wished with impunity. Despite first flying over sixty years ago, its performance remains unbeaten by crewed air-breathing aircraft today. With its malevolent beauty and almost supernatural performance, the Blackbird was astonishing.

To create such a machine, new technologies and ideas had to be forged; full of ingenious ideas and performing dare-devil missions of strategic importance, here are just 10 incredible features of the SR-71 Blackbird:

10: King of the Cold War

King of the Cold War

The Cold War, held roughly between 1947 and 1991, was a struggle for dominance between the United States and the Soviet Union. With both superpowers armed to the teeth with nuclear weapons and multiple proxy wars across the world, it was a time of great tension. The SR-71 was the capable strategic reconnaissance aircraft of the Cold War.

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When I asked former SR-71 Blackbird pilot BC Thomas to explain why the SR-71 was so important, he noted that, The SR-71 has the deserved reputation of being the most unique air-breathing aircraft ever built. No other could fly as fast, as high, or carry thousands of pounds of equipment above 80,000 feet.

10: King of the Cold War

King of the Cold War

It was the primary strategic reconnaissance asset for the West during the final 25 years of the Cold War. The SR-71 could sustain continuous Mach 3+ flight for over an hour while obtaining the highest quality reconnaissance information from multiple sensors, and with aerial refuelling (pictured), the aircraft could have circumnavigated the Earth in one flight.

The aircraft was one of the first to employ stealth technology, thereby ensuring that it was almost invisible to radar. Its speed and altitude also cloaked its presence. During this time of sparse reconnaissance satellite coverage over potential enemy targets, the SR-71 could sneak up, gather vital information, and leave the area without warning, and often without notice.

9: Speed

Speed

The SR-71 was the fastest airbreathing crewed aircraft to fly, able to cruise at three times the speed of sound. To put this into perspective, this is around twice as fast as the fastest US Navy carrier fighter flying today.

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Our maximum speed limit, directed by the Flight Manual, was Mach 3.3, but the SR-71 was not power-limited, so it could fly faster; however, doing so would exceed the compressor inlet temperature limit, as well as other limits both heat-related and structural.

9: Speed

Speed

I am certain that no pilot ever put both throttles in maximum afterburner and let the aircraft accelerate to see how fast it would go. That would be a violation of military orders, the flight manual restrictions, and common sense. I, and most probably all other pilots, never purposely violated any published limits while flying the SR-71.

The SR-71 could attain Mach 3.5, but the aircraft would be in an untested and prohibited area outside of its flight envelope, and serious damage to the aircraft might occur. The SR-71 was point-designed to cruise continuously at Mach 3.2, which is quite an achievement, but it was not intended to have a lot of margin above that speed.

8: Survivable

Survivable

The SR-71 combined speed, stealth and high altitude for survivability, but it also had a few other tricks, according to BC Thomas, The SR-71 was never successfully intercepted by surface-to-air missiles or aircraft. It had a state-of-the-art electronic defensive system which would defeat an incoming missiles homing and steering.

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Detectors on board would alert the crew of a missile launch instantly and, since the SR-71 did not normally fly at its maximum speed or altitude, the aircrafts defence was simultaneously to jam the missiles guidance while accelerating, climbing, and turning with 45 of bank.

8: Survivable

Survivable

No surface-to-air missile could out-turn, and thus hit, an SR-71, a fact demonstrated many times, especially during the Vietnam War. Attempts to shoot down an SR-71 continued until August 25, 1981, which was the last time an enemy (North Korea) fired a surface-to-air missile at an SR-71; that mission was flown by Maury Rosenberg, pilot, and Ed McKim, Reconnaissance Systems Officer (RSO). It missed.

The SR-71 had no real analogue, the closest counterpart being the far more conventional Soviet MiG-25R. Whereas the Blackbird used a great deal of titanium to survive the temperatures of high-speed flight, as well as an unusual powerplant, the MiG-25 used steel and a more conventional engine. The MiG-25R was slower, shorter ranged and more vulnerable: at least nine were shot down.

7: Missions

Missions

Reconnaissance flights penetrated Soviet airspace, overflew the land mass, and many were shot down. The Los Angeles Times reported in December 1992 that 40 reconnaissance aircraft were lost and 200 American airmen died conducting these flights. That number of lost personnel was confirmed by Paul Glenshaw in the Smithsonian Air & Space Magazine in 2017.

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So aerial reconnaissance flights against potential enemies (the Soviet Union, China, North Korea, Cuba, the Middle East) were a top priority. These flights had to be conducted routinely and had to be survivable. The SR-71 was developed to fill that need.

7: Missions

Missions

From 1966 to 1990, the SR-71 flew over 3500 operational reconnaissance missions while logging 11,000 hours in a flight environment which was most hostile: aircraft skin temperature averaged 620 degrees Fahrenheit (327 degrees Celsius), outside air pressure was 0.4 pounds-per-square-inch (psi), altitude was 15-16 miles (79,200 to 84,480 feet) straight up, aerodynamic damping was low, and true airspeed was typically 2000 to 2100mph, making pitch controllability critical.

For operational survivability, the SR-71 was one of the safest military aircraft, as no Air Force crew member was killed while flying one, a testament to outstanding aircraft maintenance and crew training. A remarkable record given its extreme flight envelope and potential attack risk. (One pilot - Jim Zwayer - did die testing the SR-71 in January 1966, but he worked for Lockheed, not the air force).

6: YF-12 Fighter

YF-12 Fighter

The Lockheed SR-71 was a two-seat reconnaissance aircraft and the most famous member of the Blackbird family. The first member of the family was the single-seat A-12, fist flown on 26 April 1962, which was developed into the M-21 capable of launching the D-21 drone, and perhaps most impressively, the Lockheed YF-12 fighter-interceptor (pictured) first flown on 7 August 1963.

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Until the late 1950s each generation of fighter interceptors was faster than the last. It stood to reason that the Mach 2.3 capable F-106 would be replaced by something even faster: the F-108 Rapier. Unsurprisingly, a fleet of Mach 3 fighters that weighed twice the weight of a loaded Lancaster bomber proved too expensive to develop.

6: YF-12 fighter

YF-12 fighter

It seemed a shame to waste the expensive radar, missiles and fire control system developed for the F-108 so they were fitted to the only available airframe of comparable performance, the extremely secret Lockheed A-12 reconnaissance aircraft.

The cost of the war in Vietnam and a less defensive military posture saw the funding for the 93 aircraft the USAF wanted scrapped. Elements of this weapon system eventually found their way onto the F-14 Tomcat.

5: Kit

Kit

Despite flying at such extreme altitudes, the Blackbird was able to photograph items on the ground with incredible detail. It was also able to quietly snoop on enemy electronic signals. It was loaded with the most advanced aerial reconnaissance equipment in the world.

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We spoke to Blackbird pilot BC Thomas who noted, We carried an array of sophisticated sensors and recorders which could glean reconnaissance data with cameras capable of high-quality photographs horizon-to-horizon. We also had radar imagery capable of one-foot resolution.

5: Kit

Kit

This was the Advanced Synthetic Aperture Radar System (ASARS), which could deliver readable radar pictures night or day, bad weather or clear. Im no photo interpreter, but even I could tell what was pictured. The SR-71 also carried electronic intelligence (ELINT) systems which are still classified.

We advertised that the SR-71, within 24 hours notification, could be over any target on earth and be capable of surveying 100,000 square miles of terrain each hour. It was no idle boast.

4: Navigation

Navigation

An SR-71 flying in the wrong patch of airspace could cause diplomatic problems or far worse consequences. But navigating with great accuracy at speeds in excess of 2000mph (3218 km/h) in the days before GPS was no easy thing. The solution was Astro-inertial navigation.

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Such a system had been developed for the massive Skybolt air-launched missile. The system known as the Nortronics Division Astroinertial Navigation System was adapted for use in the SR-71 and given the designation NAS-14V2. This enabled an accuracy within half a mile after thousands of miles of high-speed flight, a remarkable achievement in pre-satellite navigation times.

4: Navigation

Navigation

According to BC Thomas, The Astro-inertial navigation system (ANS), once aligned, could automatically track 61 stars from a catalogue, identifying their position, and through a complicated algorithm, quickly compute the aircrafts altitude, attitude, speed, ground track.

It would continually update the aircrafts position while directly controlling the aircrafts ground track (if engaged by the pilot) and providing automatic pointing and control of the cameras and sensors. Even at maximum speed, the ANS could provide course guidance within a quarter of one mileunbelievable technology before the advent of GPS.

3: Exotic powerplant

Exotic powerplant

The Pratt & Whitney J58 (known as the JT11D-20 to the manufacturer) was an incredible engine, and the SR-71 had two. At lower speed, these function as normal turbojets, providing the aircraft with all its required thrust. The inlets have movable cones known as spikes.

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At higher speeds, air entering the inlet bypasses the engines and is channelled straight to the afterburners and ejector nozzles, making a ramjet. One of the most remarkable things about the SR-71s propulsion system is how little thrust was made by the engine itself at speed.

3: Exotic powerplant

Exotic powerplant

At Mach cruise, the J58 engine was responsible for a mere 17% of the Blackbirds thrust: of the remaining thrust, 54% came from the inlet and 29% from the ejector!

The engine pioneered several technologies. It was the first dual-cycle engine, a combined turbojet-ramjet. An afterburner adds fuel to the rear of an engine for extra thrust; for fighter aircraft, this is used sparingly, but the J58 was the first operational engine to be designed for the continuous use of afterburner. The afterburner itself was innovative, using spray bars of variable geometry, another first. The aircraft relied on a special fuel, JP7, which had a higher flashpoint than normal jet fuel, allowing safe use at higher temperatures.

2: Dont blame friction!

Dont blame friction!

We asked hypersonic expert Dr Chris Combes his thoughts on what makes the skin of very fast aircraft so hot, and it may surprise you to learn it is not friction: This is a bit of a minor pet peeve, but something I hear frequently nonetheless. It is common knowledge that high-speed flight leads to aerodynamic heating.

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Famously the Concorde experienced surface temperatures in excess of 212 Fahrenheit (100 degrees Celsius) and the SR-71 saw surface temperatures well above 570 degrees Fahrenheit (300 degrees Celsius). This is not even to mention vehicles returning to Earth from space, as re-entry temperatures can easily exceed 1800 degrees Fahrenheit (1000 degrees Celsius). But where does the heating come from?

2: Dont blame friction!

Dont blame friction!

Based on our everyday experience, many cite friction as the leading cause of heating, but this would be incorrect. Similar to the way that air cools when it expands, air heats up when it is compressed.

Supersonic flight creates shock waves that rapidly compress air and lead to considerable heating. This effect scales with the square of the Mach number, so that atmospheric air can be heated to about 480 degrees Fahrenheit (250 degrees Celsius) with a shock wave at Mach 2 and nearly 2732 Fahrenheit (1500 degrees Celsius) with a shock wave at Mach 5.

1: Stealth

Stealth

The Blackbird boasted a speed and altitude performance that made it impossible to intercept, but Lockheed wasnt taking any chances, and the aircraft was also a pioneer of radar stealth. This approach aimed to minimise an aircrafts chance of being detected by radar involves careful attention to shape and materials.

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The overall blended shape and smooth finish of the SR-71 with its long fuselage chines (a chine is a longitudinal line of sharp change in the fuselage cross-section) aids stealth. The rudders are canted in so they avoid forming a 90-degree angle with the fuselage, which can increase the radar signature. The sharp sweep of the wing reflected radar energy away from the hostile transmitter.

1: Stealth

Stealth

Within the Blackbirds black paint were suspended iron ferrite balls. When radar energy hit the paint, it caused molecular oscillations, which converted the radar energy into heat. The heat was then dissipated into the airframe. The colour of the black paint also aided visual stealth by hiding the aircraft in the inky-black sky found at extreme altitudes.

This iron ball paint is a form of Radar Absorbent Material (RAM). Other forms of RAM were used in the Blackbirds chines, the leading and trailing edge of the wing, the inlet spike and the nose. The Blackbird was the first operational stealth aircraft decades before the word and concept became widely known.

The Blackbird Today

The Blackbird Today

32 SR-71s were built, and 12 in total were lost in accidents. It first entered service in January 1966, and was first retired from the US Air Force in 1989. Three SR-71s briefly re-entered service in 1996 after the US Congress released funds, but it was then permanently retired from the USAF in 1998. NASA operated two SR-71s (which had been loaned from the USAF) between 1991 and 1999, carrying out various experiments around altitude and speed.

The Blackbird Today

The Blackbird Today

20 SR-71s remain in existence today at museums. Notable places to see one are at the National Museum of the US Air Force (near Dayton, Ohio) and The Smithsonian Institution Steven F Udvar-Hazy Center (near Washington, DC). Europeans should head for the American Air Museum at Duxford, near Cambridge in England.

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Its wonderful that this incredible aircraft is being preserved for future generations.

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NEED TO KNOW

In 1982, 16-year-old Richard Jahnke Jr. shot his father to death

The trial riveted the country and shed more light on the situation, with Richard, his sister and his mother claiming the late man had abused them all for years

"My husband put on a good appearance to the outside world, but inside that house it was pure hell," Maria Gonzales Jahnke testified

Richard Jahnke Jr. was just 16 years old when he shot his father to death with a shotgun.

It was a dark evening in November 1982 when the teenager opened fire on his IRS agent father  Richard Jahnke Sr.  as he arrived home with his wife, Maria Gonzales Jahnke.

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Per a PEOPLE article published in March 1983, the couple was returning from a dinner in Cheyenne, Wyo., after celebrating the 20th anniversary of the day they met.

Maria, 40, sat in the passenger seat of a VW Beetle while her 38-year-old husband stepped out of the car and walked up his driveway to open the garage.

PEOPLE described the elder Richard as "a short, balding, tough-faced 200-pounder" and an "IRS investigator who rarely left the house without a gun."



Dave Buresh/The Denver Post via Getty Richard Jahnke Jr. Richard Jahnke Jr.

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He was killed instantly by the blast, with Richard Jr. ("Richie" to friends and family) later saying, "I heard a ringing in my ears. Only it wasn't a ringing, but my mother's shrieks. I couldn't bear to have her see me, to point her finger at me."

Meanwhile, Richie's then-17-year-old sister, Deborah, was inside the house, sitting by another gun  a high-powered rifle  ready to defend herself in case her brother had missed. Following the shooting, both Richie and Deborah escaped through a rear window.

But the ensuing trial would shed light on what Maria herself called "pure hell," with the family members claiming that Richard Sr. had abused them all for years.

The abuse began, Maria claimed in her testimony, when the children were just 2 years old. Her husband owned an arsenal of 32 rifles, shotguns and pistols  guns, she testified, he "lived for."

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Both Richie and Deborah would go on to face possible life imprisonment: Richie, after being charged with first-degree murder and conspiracy, and Deborah, charged with conspiring with her brother to kill their father.



At his trial, Richie testified that Deborah had inquired about his plan for their mom moments before their parents returned home, saying, "What about Mom? Are you going to shoot her too?" before adding, he claimed, "Shoot Mom."



Maria testified too, saying in what PEOPLE described as "a barely audible voice," that her husband "put on a good appearance to the outside world, but inside that house it was pure hell."

Asked by District Attorney Tom Carroll why she had stood by and allowed the abuse for so long, Maria said: "I was afraid for the children and myself," adding, "I'm no angel. When you live under such terrible fear, you do things you are ashamed of."

But Richie's testimony was far more gruesome, with the teen testifying for more than three hours about how much his father, he claimed, "hated" him.



"He hurt me inside. He hated me so much, he just wanted to make me miserable. He beat me all my life," he alleged, with his attorney noting that the family's house was half an acre from any neighbors. "He wanted to hurt me; he wanted to hurt my family. He hit me with a leather belt  'Stop crying, you baby, or I'll really give you something to cry about.' He'd only stop when his nose began to bleed; he had high blood pressure."

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Richie continued, "He used to beat my mother; sit on her, pounding away, her mouth foaming with blood, calling her 'slut' and 'a fat s---.' Last year, when my sister got acne, my dad accused her of not washing. He dragged her into the bathroom and scrubbed her face so hard she began to bleed. He showed her how to brush her teeth. He scraped her gums so hard, they bled. He pushed my sister against the wall, and to discipline her, he'd grope her breasts. I once saw him reach into my sister's pants and feel around. My mother saw it too, but pretended she didn't."

AP Photo/Ed Andrieski Richard Jahnke Jr., left, walks beside one of his defense attorneys, Louis Epps, as he is escorted to jail on Feb. 19, 1983. Richard Jahnke Jr., left, walks beside one of his defense attorneys, Louis Epps, as he is escorted to jail on Feb. 19, 1983.

Richie would go on to describe what he claimed was sexual abuse by his father against his sister, claiming their mother "got mad at my sister and said it was her fault for wearing shorts."



"I hurt so much. My parents were always arguing. They slept in different rooms; it was a relationship without love," Richie said in his testimony. "We lived without love, without compassion  it made me so inhuman.... we're all trapped. There was no place to go. I remember my mother praying aloud that he'd be hit by a car  but it never happened. She wanted to leave him, but she was scared."

Richie added that he had promised his sister he would protect her, saying, "She needed to be free. I had to free my mother and myself...free them from the pain and misery my father had caused us, and would always cause us."



Richie's lawyer, James Barrett, summed up the case for the jury by describing how Richard Sr. had, allegedly, "murdered his son by inches, bits and pieces, day by day, week by week. That's the crime  slow torture."



Following seven hours of deliberation, the seven-woman, five-man jury announced its verdict: Richard Jr. was convicted of manslaughter but acquitted of conspiracy charges and would be sentenced to five to 15 years in the state penitentiary.

Deborah, meanwhile, was found guilty of aiding and abetting voluntary manslaughter and sentenced to three to eight years in prison.

AP Photo/Ed Andrieski Richard Jahnke Jr. walks with Sharon Lee Tilley, left, a child abuse worker, as they leave the Laramie County Courthouse in Cheyenne, Wyo., Feb. 19, 1983. Richard Jahnke Jr. walks with Sharon Lee Tilley, left, a child abuse worker, as they leave the Laramie County Courthouse in Cheyenne, Wyo., Feb. 19, 1983.

Following a public outcry over what many deemed to be harsh sentences, Wyoming Governor Edgar Herschler commuted both sentences, with Richie and Deborah both released in 1985.



Speaking to PEOPLE in 1983, Maria confided: "I swear by all that's holy, when those shots rang out, I never thought Richie was shooting. I thought that my husband, who was so violent, was being gunned down by some enemy. I remember leaning down over his body when suddenly I felt a hand touch mine. I looked up and saw George Hain, who lives across the street, and came running over. He said, 'I'm here if you need me.' My whole life, I was so isolated; I knew nobody."

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"George called the police station, and when they were finished questioning me, the police said, 'Your neighbors, the Hains, want you to spend the night with them.' I couldn't believe it," she continued. "They were so kind and loving to me. And then all the neighbors started to come, to tell me how sorry they were, not only for my troubles, but for being so wrapped up in their own lives. Now they want to show how much they care about the woman down the street."

But Maria offered an optimistic assessment of the situation, saying, "Oh, I'm going to live. I'm going to live to the hilt. My son has freed me. He has freed all of us. I hated this house with such passion, but now it is free of hate and fear."

"My husband's things are just as he left them, and one day, when I am ready, they will all be gone," she continued. "It tore out my heart when I heard that Deborah wanted me to be shot, too. She has been so hurt and needs so much help. My poor children face ordeals, but now, for the first time, we have hope. We can live."



If you suspect child abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child or 1-800-422-4453, or go to www.childhelp.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.

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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
Two area men have been sentenced for their roles in a drug operation.

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Drey Lewis, 30, and Tyler Watkins, 35, were each sentenced to 10 years in prison for narcotics and money laundering crimes, according to the United States Attorneys Office, Southern District of Ohio.

Both men are from Middletown.

U.S. Attorney Dominick Gerace II announced Thursday several arrests, indictments, guilty pleas, and sentencings that occurred during the government shutdown.

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Lewis was an inmate at the Butler County Jail.

He coordinated drug activity from a federal prison. This included a Mexican source of supply, the U.S. Attorneys Office said.

Watkins handled the drugs and money outside of prison.

Gerace said that the U.S. Attorneys Office remained active during the shutdown.

They completed excepted duties related to national security, violations of federal law, and essential public safety functions, he added.

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Individuals bearing the name Fakih are typically characterized by their analytical mindset and deep sense of responsibility. They approach life with the careful deliberation of a scholar, weighing options thoroughly before making decisions. This thoughtful nature often makes them excellent problem-solvers who can see multiple perspectives and find balanced solutions. Their intellectual curiosity drives them to continuously seek knowledge, not just in academic pursuits but in understanding people and the world around them. They tend to be excellent listeners who value substance over superficiality, and their conversations often reflect depth and insight.



In social settings, Fakihs are often respected for their wisdom and fairness. They typically exhibit strong moral principles and are not easily swayed by popular opinion, preferring to follow their carefully considered convictions. While they may appear reserved initially, they form deep, meaningful relationships based on mutual respect and intellectual connection. Their leadership style, when they assume such roles, tends to be consultative and principle-based rather than authoritarian. They handle conflict with diplomacy and seek to understand root causes rather than merely addressing surface issues. The combination of intellectual rigor and ethical commitment makes them natural advisors and trusted confidants in their personal and professional circles.
Two men died after a plane crashed into a field in Ohio on Friday night.

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The crash happened at around 5:08 p.m. in Henry County near County Road Y and Township Road 14a, the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) told CBS affiliate WTOL in Toledo.

OSHP identified the two men as Roger Hendricks, 85, and Terry Hendricks, 82.

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The crash scene was about two miles south of the Village of New Bavaria in Henry County, WTOL said.

A single-engine 2013 Jabiru J230-SP lost altitude during a flight and crashed into a field, OSHP said.

NTSB wrote in a social media post that they are investigating the crash.

NTSB investigating the Nov. 14 crash of a Jabiru J230-SP airplane near New Bavaria, Ohio.  NTSB Newsroom (@NTSB_Newsroom) November 15, 2025

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The U.S. Department of Justice announced two vendors and a former diversity manager were convicted of a conspiracy to defraud Facebook involving a kickback scheme.

Brice E. Anderson and Terrance Lockett have pleaded guilty to conspiring with Barbara Furlow-Smiles of Atlanta, a former diversity program manager at Facebooks parent company Meta, to defraud the company, USDOJ said in a Thursday release.

Furlow-Smiles pled guilty to related charges in December 2023.

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According to justice officials, the fraud schemes involved creating fictitious invoices and paying cash kickbacks, allowing the defendants to steal significant sums of money from Facebook.

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These defendants conspired with a DEI executive at Facebook to steal significant sums from the company, based on false claims that they had worked on various DEI projects, U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg said.

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Furlow-Smiles was the Lead Strategist, Global Head of Employee Resource Groups and Diversity Engagement at Facebook, Inc., now known as Meta Platforms, Inc., from January 2017 to September 2021.

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In that role, she led Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs at Facebook and was responsible for developing and executing DEI initiatives, operations, and engagement programs.

Furlow-Smiles used her positions at Facebook and Nike to cheat and defraud the companies by causing them to pay for goods and services that were never provided.

Furlow-Smiles created a complex web of lies, all for her personal gain. Anderson and Lockett joined in this fraud for their own excessive greed, FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown said.

Anderson owned Titan Branding LLC and conspired with Furlow-Smiles to fraudulently obtain nearly $1.2 million from Facebook, the U.S. Attorneys Office said.

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Anderson received fraudulent payments from Facebook and paid kickbacks to Furlow-Smiles in cash and through transfers to accounts held in the names of Furlow-Smiles husband and others, according to officials.

Lockett hosted a podcast called the Officially Outed Podcast and owned a business called Officially Outed Media.

Lockett conspired with Furlow-Smiles to steal over $243,000 from Facebook by claiming that Officially Outed Media had provided marketing services related to DEI events.

Furlow-Smiles was sentenced to five years, three months in prison and ordered to pay restitution totaling over $5 million, according to USAO.

USDOJ said sentencing for Anderson is scheduled for March 9, 2026, and for Lockett on Feb. 18, 2026.

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Oxford MBAs decked out in sub fusc

Oxfords Said Business School didnt stumble into its leadership in social impact. It earned that reputation the way Oxford seems to do most things these daysby mixing centuries-old intellectual curiosity with a very modern impatience for incremental change. Spend even a little time on campus and you feel it: the sense that business isnt just a vehicle for growth, but a lever for shaping society in ways that matter. And Said has been leaning hard on that lever for years.

When people talk about social impact at Oxford, they almost always start with the Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurship. Its been the beating heart of the schools impact mission for more than two decades. Whats striking about the Skoll Centre is how deeply embedded it is in the schools culture. Its not a silo or a special-interest nook; its woven into the daily life of the MBA. A student once described the experience to me as Oxfords version of a wake-up call, meaning that once you go through its programming, you cant really look at business choices the same way again.

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Part of that is the range of touchpoints students have with real changemakers. The Skoll World Forumthe schools signature annual eventbrings global leaders in social innovation to campus for a week of conversations, debates, and big-picture thinking. Students arent just passive note-takers. They network, question, challenge, and often wind up rethinking their post-MBA plans. One alum told me that attending a session on climate migration completely rerouted his career. He entered the MBA aiming for consulting and ended up launching a start-up that builds financial tools for displaced communities.

This spirit of hands-on engagement threads through the entire program. Oxfords Impact Lab is a prime example: an extra-curricular crash course that pairs MBA students with organizations tackling everything from affordable energy to refugee integration. The dynamic is part boot camp, part laboratory. Students learn frameworks in the morning and then stress-test them with practitioners in the afternoon. Its messy, unpredictable, and often transformative. Several students have said the Lab was the moment they realized impact work isnt a nicheits a discipline.

Even the MBA curriculum leans deliberately into social outcomes. Said was one of the early adopters of systems thinking and purpose-driven strategy, long before every business school started sprinkling ESG-language into syllabi. Courses like Analytics for Social Innovation and Global Opportunities and Threats: Oxford (GOTO) push students to examine big systemic problemsclimate, inequality, health, governanceand then develop practical, implementable solutions. Its one thing to debate policy in an academic setting. Its another to be asked, as one GOTO instructor often does, What would you actually do on Monday morning?

And Oxford students do quite a lot on those Monday mornings. The Oxford Seed Fundstudent led and proudly impact focusedchannels capital into early-stage ventures that prioritize social and environmental returns. Its a rare combination of MBA-level investment experience and mission-driven venture capital exposure. Students learn what it looks like to evaluate impact not as a fuzzy moral bonus but as part of a coherent investment thesis.

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Another reason Oxford stands out is its global orientation. This is a school where the average MBA cohort feels like a meeting of the U.N.more than 60 nationalities, dozens of industries, and perspectives shaped by lived experiences in places where business problems arent theoretical. Bring that diversity into a classroom discussing water scarcity, food systems, or financial inclusion, and suddenly you get insights you wouldnt find anywhere else. Faculty often tell stories of students connecting dots between policy and business in ways that surprise even the experts.

One of our favorite anecdotes comes from a team of Oxford MBAs who worked with a health-tech nonprofit in East Africa. They flew in expecting to advise on distribution strategy. By the end of the week, they had built an entirely different model after realizing the real barrier wasnt distributionit was trust. Their Oxford training didnt just help them evaluate the problem; it helped them listen. And that ability, the nonprofit later said, made all the difference.

Saids commitment extends to its alumni network as well. Oxford grads are everywhere in the impact world: running foundations, building B Corps, shaping ESG policy, leading sustainability teams, launching climate-tech ventures. Whats notable is that these alumni see themselves as part of a continuing conversation. They come backto teach, mentor, partner, and often to recruit. Oxford has turned social impact into a full-circle ecosystem.

And the schools location in Oxford is more than historic charm; it creates access. Students mingle with researchers from the Blavatnik School of Government, the Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment, and the broader universitys science and policy communities. Few business schools can match that interdisciplinary depth. When you want to understand the climate economy or the ethics of AI or the future of public health, having world-class experts one courtyard away is an advantage you feel immediately.

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Oxfords leadership also reflects a philosophical stance: the belief that business must engage directly with the worlds thorniest problems. Its not a marketing slogan; its a mandate. You see it in how the school frames its mission, what it funds, who it hires, and the kinds of students it attracts. Social impact isnt an elective identity here. Its the starting point.

So when we talk about Oxford Said as a leader in social impact, were not just praising a program or a portfolio of initiatives. Were acknowledging a school that has reshaped how MBAs think about their responsibilities. A school that pushes them to consider not just profit, but purpose. And most importantly, a school that has turned social impact from a side path into a central, serious, global force in business education.

In a year where many institutions are scrambling to define their role in a turbulent world, Oxford Said already knows what it stands for. It stands for impactnot in theory, but in action. And thats why it belongs on our Best in Class list.

POETS&QUANTS 2025 HONORS

DEAN OF THE YEAR: RICE BUSINESS PETER RODRIGUEZ

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BUSINESS SCHOOL OF THE YEAR: ESCP BUSINESS SCHOOL

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FOR MBA ADMISSIONS: DUKE FUQUAS SHARI HUBERT

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD IN BUSINESS SCHOOL BRANDING: ILLINOIS GIES JAN SLATER

MBA PROFESSOR OF THE YEAR: MICHIGAN ROSS ANDY HOFFMAN

205 BEST IN CLASS AWARDS FOR TEACHING QUALITY, CAREER SERVICES & MORE

The post 2025 MBA Best In Class Award For Social Impact: University of Oxford (Said) appeared first on Poets&Quants.
Three investigations by journalists at The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com were recognized as among the best in the country by Editor & Publisher magazine.

Republic reporting uncovered a gang of teenagers in Gilbert whose attacks on other young people went unchecked by police for more than a year; detailed the fallout of so-called crime free provisions in rental leases; and revealed a sharp increase of incidents where Phoenix police point firearms at children, some as young as 2 years old.

Each of these investigations shows the power of local reporting and the skill and tenacity of our journalists, said Greg Burton, Republic executive editor. We thank our readers for their support, as well as the judges."

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Editor & Publishers annual EPPY Awards contest honors achievements in digital journalism and innovation. The articles about the Gilbert Goons  by Republic reporters Robert Anglen and Elena Santa Cruz  won first place for best investigative series. An examination of crime-free housing policies by reporter Hannah Dreyfus took second place in the same category.

The article about police pointing guns at young people, by former Republic reporter Sahana Jayaraman, won second place for best investigative feature.

The investigations were the culmination of months of work by journalists at The Republic and have had ongoing effects in metro Phoenix and across Arizona.

Anglen and Santa Cruz were the first to tie the beating death of 16-year-old Preston Lord at a Halloween party in 2023 to the "Gilbert Goons."

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They detailed how the Goons recorded their blitz-style attacks on teens in parks and parking garages, outside fast-food restaurants and at house parties in Phoenix's southeast suburbs.

Gilbert was the nexus of attacks, which also occurred in Mesa, Chandler and Pinal County. Authorities did not begin making arrests in the Goons' attacks until after The Republic's report.

The investigation into crime-free housing policies showed how the legally binding contract for renters expands criminal activity that can lead to an immediate eviction to include a broad range of actions, such as making too much noise, not properly registering visitors or lighting up a joint.

It gives landlords broad power to decide that a crime occurred, even without an arrest, conviction or an actual crime.

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In a first-of-its-kind analysis that was part of the series, Dreyfus worked with the nonprofit research organization RAND to show the policies didnt reduce crime  their stated reason for existing.

Since the publication of the articles, three Arizona cities have directed their police departments to reevaluate their programs and the Attorney General's Office is reviewing the data and legal implications of the crime-free addendum. Two lawmakers also plan to introduce legislation on the issue at the state Capitol when the Legislature convenes in January.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Republic investigations win EPPY awards
A 13-year-old boy, Jacob Duncan, was tragically killed by a stray bullet on January 26, 2024, at his home on Bennett Road near Pageland, South Carolina.

Despite having witnesses and video evidence, nearly two years have passed without any arrests in connection with Jacobs death.

His family hopes that a new reward might lead to a breakthrough in the case.

Its hard living every day knowing your grandsons murderer is still out there, said Billy Terry, Jacobs grandfather. And you dont know who he is.

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ALSO READ: Stray bullets strike home weeks after teen killed nearby, family living in fear

On the night of the incident, Jacob and his older brother Eric were in a shed behind their home when shots were fired from a passing car. A bullet pierced the shed wall, hitting Jacob.

Eric Duncan, Jacobs brother, recounted the harrowing moments he spent with Jacob as he lay dying, saying, I was with him in his last moments. I was telling him I love you bruh, dont do this to me bruh.

Chesterfield County Sheriff Cambo Streater, who is leading the investigation, expressed the challenges faced, noting that despite many people being present, little information has surfaced.

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Its very frustrating and very unique that you had that many people and yet so little information came to us, he said.

Surveillance footage captured the car driving by and the flashes from the gunshots, but it has not provided the crucial piece needed to solve the case.

Streater believes the shooter intended to target Jacobs home, though Jacob himself was likely not the intended target.

In an effort to encourage more information to come forward, the group Concerned Citizens for Chesterfield County has announced a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest, with an additional $2,500 reward offered by the sheriffs office.

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As the investigation continues, Jacobs family holds onto hope that justice will be served, with Billy Terry expressing a desire for Jacobs memory to bring their family closer to justice.

Every light that shines will maybe help bring out the darkness, he said.

VIDEO: Stray bullets strike home weeks after teen killed nearby, family living in fear
The 77-year-old Johnston County woman who was reported missing a week ago and had dementia and Alzheimer's has been found dead.

According to the Johnston County Sheriff's Office, Linda Airington and her husband, who also has dementia, were last seen together on Friday, Nov. 7, at Murphy's gas station in Smithfield. Around 4:30 that afternoon, the family got a call from Wake County authorities that they had found the husband walking on I-40 and Jones Sausage Road, disoriented.

He told authorities they ran out of gas and their truck was found abandoned, but Linda has not been seen since, and the husband could not remember the events that afternoon.

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On Friday, Nov. 14, deputies from both sheriff's offices in Wake and Johnston counties were searching the area near the I-87 and I-40 interchange when they found a woman's body, who was later identified as Linda Airington.

"On behalf of the Wake County Sheriff's Office, we extend our deepest condolences to Mrs. Airington's loved ones. We ask the community to join us and the Johnston County Sheriff's Office in offering prayers and support as they find comfort during this difficult time," Sheriff Willie Rowe said.

Her cause of death is being determined by the state's medical examiner's office.

It's not the news the family wanted to hear.

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"Linda was a wonderful person and would do anything to help anyone that she saw who needed something," said Rich Leonard, Linda's son-in-law.

"We know that she's in her hands now and she's with her family, her parents and her brothers and sisters that have passed. We're thankful that we know she's not suffering and she's not out in the cold or anything like that," said Leonard.

Leonard says Airington was heavily involved in her church community and loved by all. He says her symptoms progressed quickly.

Alzheimer's and dementia advocates share more about warning signs.

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"Are they asking the same questions over and over again? Are they asking you about things that you told them yesterday or a few hours earlier? And are they usually very easy to get along with? Go with the flow and love everyone and they seem bothered or anxious by the crowd," said Lisa Levine with Dementia Alliance of North Carolina.

Advocates also say to use the holidays to see loved ones and connect with local groups for support.

"It's important to lay eyes on your family members and see them. And as soon as you can as soon as you learn about dementia, you need to put things in place. You need to start thinking ahead, what could happen and be prepared for those things, because we get very overwhelmed when we become a caregiver," said Levine.

If you have any information that could help in the investigation, please contact the Johnston County Sheriff's Office at (919)989-5000.
Eight men have been charged in a years-long car theft ring that caused millions of dollars in losses, police and federal prosecutors announced Friday.

Authorities said the men stole hundreds of cars, working in the dead of night, looking for Honda, Acura and Jeep vehicles.

NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said the thieves worked fast. They cruised the streets of the city in the middle of the night. They knew exactly what they were looking for-and how to steal it.

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"These thieves were very sophisticated, very complex. They were able to go 'old school' to break into the car, meaning popping the driver's side door lock. But then, they use computers to basically reprogram keys to match that car. So a theft would take less than less than 2 minutes to steal the car," he said.

According to the indictment, the men mainly targeted cars parked on the street in the Bronx or Queens.

"They loved the Honda CRV, anywhere from 2023 to newer. And for some reason, they really enjoyed stealing black Honda's white Hondas and they loved the dark interiors," Kenny said.

The alleged scheme, which lasted for at least four years, may have targeted as many as one thousand cars.

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Investigators say the thieves drove the stolen vehicles into New Jersey, where they would forge new VIN numbers and then sell the cars to unsuspecting buyers through sites like Facebook Marketplace.

"They would alter the VIN, meaning change a few numbers on the VIN or change the VIN plate itself. Then they would take the car and build a history for that car. They would go get the car serviced at a Honda dealership. It has a history," Kenny explained.

The vast majority of the cars were Hondas, specifically late model CRVs.

United States Attorney Jay Clayton said that, as alleged, the operation caused "millions of dollars in losses."

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On Friday night, Central California will learn new details about a crime spree that haunted the Valley for years.

"Debbie Dorian, who was killed and who set off this long, decades-long investigation," ABC News anchor JuJu Chang told Action News.

Chang reports from Fresno on the 1996 murder of Debbie Dorian. She was a few months out of Fresno State when her father found her dead.

RELATED: ABC's JuJu Chang sits down with Action News ahead of Friday's 20/20 on Debbie Dorian

Chang goes to the former crime scene at Debbie's Northeast Fresno apartment complex and to the campus.

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"I went to Fresno State and walked across the campus that was really touched by this murder because it went unsolved, and she was a bright, vibrant co-ed," Chang said.

On Friday, Chang will introduce you to Beth.

For years, Action News has reported on her as "Jane Doe #1."

She is one of several women Nickey Stane assaulted in Visalia after Debbie's death.

"What was that moment when she sat down with you and revealed her name publicly for the first time?" Action News asked Chang.

"There were a lot of butterflies all around because we never want to pressure anyone to do something that might impact them," Chang said. "Beth was so courageous."

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It was the DNA found at the scene of Beth's assault that connected her crime to Debbie's murder, and later tied Stane to all of it.

RELATED: DNA match solves murder of California woman after almost 3 decades

JuJu told Action News about exclusive body-camera video that includes a conversation with Stane.

"It's fascinating to see the evolution and the spiraling of him on camera," Chang said.

There is also a critical jailhouse call. Action News first brought you details of it two years ago when prosecutors played it in court, but we were not allowed to record it.

RELATED: Debbie Dorian's killer Nickey Stane sentenced

On Friday, viewers will hear the call.

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"He is talking to family members, and as you know, these kinds of jailhouse phone calls are recorded, and he basically implicates himself (by) saying words to the effect of, 'I've done bad things,'" Chang said.

Chang has spent several months reporting on this, making many trips to Fresno. She even went to the farm of Vince Zavala.

Zavala is a retired investigator who cracked the case and helped send Stane to prison.

"He's the kind of guy who makes me feel good covering these stories that can often be so dark," Chang said of Zavala.

For news updates, follow Gabe Ferris on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
This past weekend I had the privilege of accompanying my dad, Chuck Martin, on his honor flight. Dad served from 1959 to 1966 in the National Guard and during the Berlin Wall crisis was mobilized to active duty.

We were sent out with fanfare, spent the day in Washington visiting many of the memorials there, and returned that night back to great acclaim. There was a serendipitous moment upon our arrival in D.C. Instead of hearing from our captain, we heard the distinctive voice of former President Barack Obama welcoming us (Barack Obama surprises Wisconsin war veterans on honor flight to D.C., Nov. 11).

My dad and I wondered if perhaps it was a prerecorded announcement. However when we deplaned, there he was, in the flesh, shaking each of our hands and thanking each veteran for their service.

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Regardless of your politics, I hope you would agree with me that it was a very classy moment and made this already special day just a little more remarkable.

Thank you, Badger Honor Flight, for all you do to honor those who have served and thank you Obama for making the effort to greet each veteran and giving them one more thing to talk about to their loved ones that night upon their return.

Jeff Martin, Chetek

Opinion: Wisconsin gun deer season a gathering full of simple blessings in the silence

Letters: Constitution and age make Trump unfit for third term as U.S. President

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Please include your name, street address and daytime phone.

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Write: Letters to the editor, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 330 E. Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 500, Milwaukee, WI, 53202. Fax: (414)-223-5444. E-mail: jsedit@jrn.com or submit using the form that can be found on the on the bottom of this page.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Obama surprising honor flight was a very classy moment | Letters
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Freeman carries profound cultural significance rooted in medieval English society, where it originally distinguished individuals who possessed legal freedom from serfdom or villeinage. These freemen enjoyed rights to own property, conduct trade, and participate in local governance, representing a crucial social class between nobility and bonded laborers. During the colonial era in America, the concept took on new meaning as many settlers sought to establish communities based on principles of personal liberty and self-determination, making 'Freeman' both a literal description and an aspirational identity.



In Christian contexts, the name resonates with theological concepts of spiritual freedom, echoing biblical passages about being 'set free' from sin and bondage. The surname became particularly meaningful during periods of religious reformation and social change, when individuals sought liberation from both spiritual and temporal constraints. Throughout history, the name has been embraced by various freedom movements and has come to symbolize the universal human aspiration for autonomy, dignity, and self-governance across cultures and eras.
PHILADELPHIA (AP)  Steel: 50%. Copper: 50%. Cars: up to 25%. But an even bigger Trump-era levy looms: 107 % on Italian pasta.

Mamma mia.

It started with the U.S. Commerce Department launching what it says was a routine antidumping review, based on allegations Italian pasta makers sold product into the US at below-market prices and undercut local competitors. That has led to a threat of 92% duties, which would come on top of the 15% tariff President Donald Trumps administration imposed on European exports generally.

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The news sent shockwaves through Italy, where 13 producers would be subject to the whopping one-two punch. They say sales in their second biggest export market would shrivel if prices to American consumers more than double. And while the measure would hardly prompt pasta shortages, it still has perplexed importers like Sal Auriemma, whose shop in Philadelphias Italian market, Claudio Specialty Food, has been operating for over 60 years.

Pasta is a pretty small sector to pick on. I mean, theres a lot bigger things to pick on," said Auriemma, pointing to luxury items as an alternative.

But pasta? Its basic food, he said. "Somethings got to be sacred.

Pasta adds heft to Italy's economy

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Italy is a nation of avid pasta eaters. Less known is that most of the tortellini, spaghetti and rigatoni its factories churn out gets sent abroad. The U.S. accounts for about 15% of its 4 billion ($4.65 billion) in exports, making it Italys largest market after Germany, data from farmers association Coldiretti show.

The punitive pasta premium has become a cause celebre for Italys politicians, executives and economists. Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida told lawmakers in mid-October that the government was working with the European Commission and engaging in diplomatic efforts, while supporting the companies legal actions to oppose U.S. sanctions.

EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic addressed reporters in Rome last month, stressing the lack of evidence backing the U.S. decision and calling the combined 107% levy unacceptable.

Margherita Mastromauro, president of the pasta makers sector of Unione Italiana Food, told The Associated Press that prices for Italian pasta in the U.S. remain high, and certainly higher than American-made rivals  undermining any dumping claim.

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She said that the measures could deal a fatal blow to small- and medium-sized producers. Lucio Miranda, president of consultancy group Export USA, agreed.

A duty rate of 107% would definitely kill this flow of export, Miranda, who is Italian, said by phone from New York. Its not going to be something that you can just dump on the consumer and move on, life continues. It will definitely be a deal killer.

Wacky Mac owner cries foul

The Commerce Departments investigation started in 2024 after complaints from Missouri-based 8th Avenue Food & Provisions, which owns pasta brand Ronzoni, and Illinois-based Winland Foods, whose multiple brands include Prince, Muellers and Wacky Mac.

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The offices review focused on La Molisana and Garofalo, chosen as primary respondents because they are Italys two largest exporters, the Commerce Department said in an emailed statement. Any sale price below either producers costs or the price they charge in the Italian market would be considered dumping, in line with numerous other reviews of Italian pasta since 1996, it said.

The two companies presented information incorrectly or withheld it, significantly impeding analysis, according to the Commerce Department. And in the face of these alleged deficiencies, the office presented its 92% duty estimate, which it extended to 11 other companies based on an assumption the two companies behavior was representative.

After they screwed up their initial responses, the Commerce Department explained to them what the problems were and asked them to fix those problems; they didnt, White House spokesperson Kush Desai said in an emailed response to the AP's questions. And then Commerce communicated the requirements again, and they didnt answer for a third time.

La Molisana declined to comment when contacted by the AP. Garofalo didnt respond to a request for comment.

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The sanctions would be applied not just to imports going forward, but also the 12 months through June 2024, according to the Commerce Department. It added that only 16% of total Italian pasta imports may be affected. Its final decision is scheduled for Jan. 2, which could be extended by 60 days.

'Completely senseless'

A little over an hours drive northeast from Naples is Benevento, a sleepy hilltop town of 55,000 people famed for its ancient Roman theater and Aglianico red wine. Its also home to Pasta Rummo, founded in 1846, which prides itself on its seven-phase, slow work production method.

CEO Cosimo Rummo is outraged by the threat to his companys annual 20 million euros in exports to the U.S.

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These tariffs are completely senseless, Rummo said in a phone interview. These are fast-moving consumer goods  Who would ever buy a pack of pasta that costs 10 dollars, the same price as a bottle of wine?

He added that he has no intention to start producing pasta stateside, as some companies have done and so would be spared the prospective levy. That includes Barilla, which for decades has been the main Italian pasta brand in the U.S. and now has large-scale production facilities there.

An unsavory prospect

When the transatlantic imbroglio started simmering, Robert Tramonte of Arlington, Virginia sought assurances. The owner of The Italian Store called his supplier, who told him theres enough pasta inventory stocked in the warehouse to keep prices steady until Easter.

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Tramontes clients count on him for top-shelf product and he was relieved that, at least for the time being, they wont have to shell out for the real deal. Or worse -- perish the thought! -- purchase made-in-America pasta.

Theyve tried to make Italian products and use the same ingredients, but the source wasnt Italy, he said. And they just didnt taste the same.

___

Zampano reported from Rome and Wiseman from Washington. Associated Press videojournalists Paolo Santalucia in Rome and Tassanee Vejpongsa in Philadelphia contributed to this report.
Israels stocks of AIM-9M Sidewinder air-to-air missiles are now more effective against long-range kamikaze drones like Irans Shahed-136, thanks to changes to their seekers, according to a new report. Shahed-type and other similar one-way attack drones present particular challenges for any aerial intercept attempt, given their relatively small size, minimal signiture, slow speed, and low-altitude flight profiles.

The Israeli AIM-9M seeker changes are among the details included in a report on drone defense lessons learned in the wake of Irans attacks on Israel on the night of April 13-14, 2024, that the Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) think tank published today. During that barrage, U.S. and other foreign forces joined the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to help shoot down dozens of incoming drones and missiles.

An Israeli Air Force F-16 fighter with an AIM-9M Sidewinder missile seen on the outboard station under its left wing. Israeli Air Force

The defenders quickly surmised that the best weapon to shoot them [incoming long-range one-way attack drones] down is the AIM-9X, the most modern variant of this five-decade-old heat-seeking missile, FRPI President Aaron Stein wrote, citing an interview with unnamed U.S. Air Force personnel. The older variant, the AIM-9M, did not work well for the American drone defenders. Its also worth noting that the Saudis relied heavily on the AIM-120 AMRAAM to shoot down Houthi drones during its war with the Yemeni group, as the AIM-9 was less reliable. You can read all about that in our previous article here.

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The AIM-9X, the baseline version of which first entered U.S. service in 2003, is substantially different, inside and out, from its immediate predecessor, the AIM-9M, as you can read about in more detail here. Among the many changes found on the X variant is a new and advanced imaging infrared (IIR) seeker that can see far further and with much greater fidelity than the one on the M model. The AIM-9X, of which numerous subvariants have since been developed, also features new thrust vectoring and high-off-boresight targeting capabilities to increase its effectiveness against a wide array of threats.

A breakdown of the key components of a current-generation Block II AIM-9X Sidewinder. USN

The Israeli Air Force, however, has made a change to the AIM-9Ms seeker and employed them with considerable success, according to FPRIs report.

The report does not elaborate on the changes and notes that the Israelis have not yet shared the technology with allies, even the United States.

An AIM-9M Sidewinder is visible on the right wingtip of this Israeli Air Force F-16I fighter. The jet is also carrying an Israeli Python 3 air-to-air missile and a Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) precision-guided bomb under its right wing. Israeli Air Force

It isnt clear what was modified, and if it was hardware or software based, or both, to increase its effectiveness against smaller, slower-flying targets, especially at lower altitudes, where various kinds of clutter on the surface below can hamper detection and tracking. Seeker here could also be shorthand for a broader set of modifications to the Israeli AIM-9Ms. As something of a tangential example, years ago, the U.S. Army added new proximity fuzes featuring small conformal radar antennas to existing FIM-92 Stinger short-range, heat-seeking surface-to-air missiles to improve their effectiveness against various targets, and particularly drones.

An AIM-9M Sidewinder seen at the moment of launch. USN

FPRI highlights these underlying issues in talking about the difficulties that U.S. and other foreign fast jet pilots experienced just in trying to find Iranian drones, let alone shoot them, on the night of April 13-14, 2024. TWZ has been underscoring these challenges on for years now, as well.

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The issue with the slow, low-flying drones is that they travel at about the same speed as a fast-driving vehicle. The speed the Shahed flies is far slower than most other flying objects, according to FPRIs report, again citing an interview with unnamed U.S. Air Force personnel. They are also flying very low to the ground and if drones are near roads it is going to complicate radar and sanitization. The defender then has to use an [electro-optical] or [infrared] sensor to tell if it is a car or a drone.'

As an aside here, several U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle crews unsuccessfully tried to take down Iranian long-range kamikaze drones on the night of April 13-14, 2024, with Laser Joint Direct Attack Munition (LJDAM) precision-guided bombs after running out of missiles, something TWZ was first to report. The very vaguely car-like attributes of those one-way attackers were brought up as part of the reason why this was even attempted. LJDAMs are designed to engage targets on the surface, including ones on the move.

The Royal Air Force, which flew defensive missions that night, has the option to set their speed filter on their mechanically scanned radars to zero.' FPRIs report continues. The problem, of course, is that it will then pick up everything that is moving against the flat desert background. This required the Royal Air Force to work closely with the US Air Force to point them out and then transmit data via link 16 [datalinks] for them to get their kills.'

The US Air Force, in contrast, were all operating more modern radars and carrying the Sniper [targeting] pod. This allowed for the pilots to use the radar to find the targets and then to identify them with the Sniper pods infrared sensor, the report adds. The Shaheds have no lights, so they are hard to spot visually. They do, however, put off a very small infrared signature, which allows for their visual identification with the pod. Their most obvious characteristic, as it turns out, is the noise that the engine puts, which is audible to the naked ear within a couple miles on the ground.

In regard to the last point above, it is interesting to note that Ukrainian forces have fielded a network of acoustic sensors to help spot incoming Russian standoff weapon attacks, which are largely carried out using variants and derivatives of the Shahed-136. The U.S. military has also now been experimenting with similar capabilities based on observations from Ukraine.

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To go back to the Israeli modified AIM-9Ms, FPRI is now advocating for that country to share how it has changed those missiles with allies and partners like the United States. Though it is increasingly being supplanted by the AIM-9X, the AIM-9M remains in active U.S. service. Other countries continue to employ M variant Sidewinders, as well.

Improved counter-drone capabilities for the AIM-9M could be particularly valuable for Ukraine, which now employs these missiles regularly from its fleet of Western-supplied F-16s. Those jets are routinely used to hunt incoming drones. There have been indications in the past that Ukraine has fielded AIM-9Ms in the surface-to-air mode, as well. Authorities in the country have notably shown uncrewed surface vessels (USV) armed with M variant Sidewinders, but it is unclear if that combination has been used operationally. In June, Ukrainian Lt. Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraines Defense Intelligence Directorate (GUR), told TWZ that USVs had been firing AIM-9Xs during actual missions.

A Ukrainian F-16 carrying AIM-9Ms, as well as AIM-120 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM). Ukrainian Air Force

A Ukrainian Magura V7 uncrewed surface vessel armed with a pair of AIM-9M Sidewinder missiles. Ukraine Defense Intelligence Directorate

FPRIs report does note that the U.S. Air Force has already pursued a very effective alternative air-to-air munition for use against drones. This is the Fixed Wing, Air Launched, Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Ordnance (FALCO) version of the laser-guided 70mm Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS II) rocket. Originally developed as an air-to-surface weapon, all APKWS II rockets consist of a standard motor, one of several warhead options, and a laser guidance section in between. The FALCO configuration includes a proximity fuze and other changes to improve its effectiveness in the air-to-air role. It is worth noting here that APKWS II rockets are also now combat-proven in the surface-to-air and surface-to-surface roles.

Air Force F-16s first began using the FALCO rockets operationally to shoot down enemy drones sometime last year, as TWZ was first to report. The services F-15E Strike Eagles and A-10 Warthog ground attack jets can also now employ the air-to-air-optimized laser-guided rockets. This is a capability that is likely to continue expanding beyond those platforms.

U.S. Fighter aircraft shoot down Iran-backed Houthi one-way-attack drones with AGR-20 FALCO Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) Laser Guided 2.75" Rockets.#HouthisAreTerrorists pic.twitter.com/bDoVnKwotc  U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 19, 2025

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Though they offer immense magazine depth and cost benefits, FALCO rockets are not without limitations, as TWZ has highlighted in the past. This includes the need to laze or designate the target through the entire intercept attempt. The rockets are not able to aggressively maneuver and can only effectively be employed against relatively steady flying, non-reactionary, low-performance targets like drones, as well as subsonic cruise missiles. Work is underway on a new dual-mode guidance system for the APKWS II that adds an imaging infrared seeker to improve its effectiveness against aerial targets, as well as ones on the surface, but it still wont be on the same level, capability-wise, as a traditional air-to-air missile like the AIM-9X.

Even with the introduction of the specialized air-to-air version of the APKWS II, Air Force jets have continued to fly patrols in the Middle East (and elsewhere) with air-to-air loadouts that include AIM-9M and AIM-9X Sidewinders, as well as AIM-120 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM).

A pair of US Air Force F-16s seen flying somewhere over the Middle East earlier this year with mixed air-to-air loadouts that include 70mm rocket pods, AIM-9M and AIM-9X sidewinders, and AIM-120 AMRAAMs. USAF

If nothing else, Israels reported changes to the seekers on its AIM-9M missiles are another example of how existing munitions are being adapted in response to the growing threats posed by drones.

Contact the author: joe@twz.com
The federal government has halted its plans to cut more flights at major airports now that the longest shutdown in United States history is over, but the effects of pulling the plug on government for 43 days could linger as a busy Thanksgiving travel week approaches.

The shutdown froze payments to millions of federal workers, including air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration agents whose jobs revolve around keeping flying a safe means of travel.

Those workers are promised back pay, but circumstances in the aviation industry have yet to return to the status quo from before the shutdown. As of Nov. 14, flights remained cut by 6% at dozens of busy U.S. airports

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Its an awkward time for disruptions. The Thanksgiving holiday is traditionally one of the busiest days for fliers in the U.S., and 2025 could break travel records set in 2024.

McGhee Tyson Airport wasnt hit by major flight cuts during the shutdown. But many destinations the Knoxville airport services  from which travelers could expect to catch connecting flights  experienced thousands of delays and cancellations.

Commercial flights arent headed back to normal immediately, according to Blake Stringer, director of the Center for Aviation Studies, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Ohio State University.

This next week, you will see ripple effects of this continue, Stringer told Knox News by phone.

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Airlines will have to move away from drawing down routes, repositioning planes and prioritizing specific flights, Stringer said.

It is really a complex system that is a full-time job in the synchronizing, he said. And so when you bring it down, it just takes time to get it back.

Heres what to expect as the holiday season gets underway and how to avoid last-minute travel trouble.

2025 has 'exposed' the aviation industry is 'stressed'

Delays are likely for the next week or so, Stringer told Knox News.

The length of the shutdown  coupled with years of staffing shortages among air traffic controllers  put real pressure on aviation, he said.

McGhee Tyson Airport was the fastest growing major airport in the U.S. in 2024.

That job is stressful, and they make split second decisions to keep thousands of travelers in the air safe every single day," he said. "Now, you've got the added personal burden of, I'm not getting paid. I have bills I have to pay. I have a mortgage note.

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This year has been tough for the industry and "has definitely exposed that the system is stressed," he said, with the deadly crash between an American Airlines jet and a Black Hawk military helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport happening just 29 days into 2025.

There are improvements that need to be made," he said. "Having said that, the government is pushing to fund those necessary improvements at the federal level. So, we will see improvements from this year, and that's a good thing.

Flight disruptions triggered by the shutdown should start smoothing out soon, he said, with fewer delays and cancellations each day.

Those numbers, I think, shrink over the next 10 days, he said. And then I think that the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving, you will see things running just like they were running this summer.

How to handle holiday air travel

But some headaches are an unavoidable part of traveling. As Thanksgiving gets closer, Stringer suggests, travelers could check with their airlines to see if connecting flights might be rerouted through airports that aren't facing cuts.

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McGhee Tyson spokesperson Becky Huckaby told Knox News the airport is operating normally post-shutdown. Thanksgiving is a major travel time, though, and McGhee Tyson was the fastest growing major airport in the U.S. in 2024.

Huckaby said the airport hopes travelers will practice patience as they arrive ahead of the holiday. Fliers hoping to beat long lines should arrive with plenty of time to check in, head through security and wait by the gate. Keep an eye on any notes from the airline youre flying with, she said.

Taking a look at TSAs requirements for carry-on luggage could save some time and heartache, she said. And so could planning for bad weather, especially in destinations to the north.

Mariah Franklin reports on technology and energy for Knox News. Email: mariah.franklin@knoxnews.com. Signal: mariahfranklin.01

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: U.S. airport delays could continue as McGhee Tyson braces for holidays
(Corrects to use term 'girls' in paragraphs 2, 18, instead of 'underage women' and 'underage girls')

By Gram Slattery, Steve Holland and Nandita Bose

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Donald Trump was eager to claim victory this week after the record-long U.S. government shutdown ended on his terms. But almost immediately, the White House was forced to battle a familiar bogeyman: Jeffrey Epstein.

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A trove of emails released by Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday reignited questions about Trump's relationship with the disgraced financier and how much the president knew about Epstein's alleged abuse of girls.

While the White House swiftly dismissed the effort as a Democratic smear campaign, the headline-grabbing messages underscored a potential vulnerability for Trump that could shadow the president and his Republican Party into next year's midterm congressional elections.

Trump has weathered controversies that would have sunk many politicians. But the Epstein saga has proven to be a persistent liability that disrupts Trump's message discipline and complicates his effort to keep his coalition focused on policy rather than scandal.

SOME REPUBLICANS BREAK RANKS

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Many of Trump's most loyal supporters believe the government is withholding sensitive documents about Epstein, a convicted sex offender who died by suicide in jail in 2019, that would reveal his ties to powerful public figures.

A handful of Republicans have broken ranks to join Democrats seeking a full documents release, drawing a rebuke from Trump, who called them "soft and foolish."

"I think the hope was that it would die down and go away, and that was never going to be the case," said Republican strategist Terry Sullivan, who headed Secretary of State Marco Rubio's 2016 presidential campaign.

"It's an impossible issue to handle effectively," he added. "It's impossible to prove a negative. If he (Trump) didn't know anything, how do you prove it?"

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Pia Carusone, a Democratic strategist and partner at political consultancy SKDK, said the specter of Epstein could depress Republican turnout in the 2026 midterm elections if new revelations keep dripping out.

Some Trump supporters for years have fanned conspiracy theories about Epstein's clients and the circumstances of his death. While Trump has not been accused of wrongdoing related to the wealthy financier, he has faced a backlash from supporters over his administration's refusal, citing privacy concerns, to disclose all Epstein-related investigative files.

"The MAGA base has a way of attaching to insider issues and blowing them up," Carusone said. "I think he's very vulnerable on this."

While nine in 10 Republicans say they approve of Trump's performance in the White House overall, just four in 10 say they approve of his handling of the Epstein files, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted in October.

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The White House said it would not be distracted by the Epstein saga.

Democrats and the mainstream media are desperately trying to use this hoax as a distraction to talk about anything other than Democrats getting utterly defeated by President Trump in the shutdown fight. These emails prove literally nothing, White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson said.

UNITY SHOWS CRACKS

The president demonstrated near-total control over his party during the 43-day government shutdown. Even with this week's Epstein emails, some prominent conservative influencers downplayed messages that suggested Epstein believed Trump "knew about the girls." The messages also showed Trump disapproved of his behavior and forced Epstein out of his Mar-a-Lago social club in Florida.

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Trump has repeatedly denied any knowledge of Epstein's alleged abuse and sex trafficking of girls.

Republican unity has not held around the Epstein issue overall, and Democrats have still managed to cause trouble for Trump.

On the same day the government reopened, a petition supported by all House Democrats and four Republicans got the final signature needed for a vote on a bill to compel the Justice Department to release all files related to Epstein.

High-level Trump aides failed to convince Representative Lauren Boebert to take her name off the Epstein petition, going so far as to meet with her in the Situation Room, a White House space typically used for pressing national security matters.

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Republican Representative Nancy Mace, another Trump loyalist, also did not budge in her support for the petition. A source familiar with the situation who spoke on condition of anonymity said that when Mace and Trump were unable to connect by phone, she wrote a message to the president that referenced her experience as a sexual assault survivor.

The recalcitrance of Boebert and Mace, members of a Republican congressional conference that has shown almost complete obedience to Trump, suggests the president will have to navigate internal dissent carefully to ensure the Epstein saga does not fracture his party heading into the midterm elections.

After days of declining questions from reporters, Trump broke his silence on Friday night, lamenting how the Epstein affair had distracted from his accomplishments.

"When you talk about the Epstein hoax, what happens is, you're not talking about how well we've done," Trump told journalists aboard Air Force One. "They want to waste people's time, and some of the dumber Republicans like that."

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Those comments came just hours after Trump announced that he would ask the Justice Department to investigate Epstein's ties with JPMorgan and prominent Democrats. The U.S. bank said it regrets its past association with Epstein, who was a client between 1998 and 2013, and did not help him commit "heinous acts."

Democratic and Republican strategists said the last few days have illustrated the Epstein scandal's remarkable staying power and its ability to commandeer any news cycle.

The continued attempts by the White House to suppress or deflect news around the saga have had the effect of prolonging the attention paid to it, they said.

"I don't think anyone could argue that they handled it well," veteran Republican strategist Alex Conant said, "because we're still talking about it."

(Reporting by Gram Slattery, Steve Holland and Nandita BoseEditing by Colleen Jenkins, Ross Colvin and Rod Nickel)
Columbus doesn't need a king either

Re "Ginther to launch reelection bid," Nov. 13: Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther shouldn't be launching his 2027 campaign for reelection and raising big money for it nearly two years before the general election. He and his donors should focus on more immediate issues until Nov. 3, 2026.That's the day voters will elect members of Congress, statewide office holders and members of the Ohio General Assembly. Persons holding those offices will have a significant effect on Columbus and its city government.Ginther should therefore tell his donors to support Democrats running for important offices in 2026. It's wrong that he's collecting limited donor dollars for his 2027 campaign, when the funds are sorely needed by Democratic office seekers in the coming year. He will have plenty of time to raise money after next year's elections.The only reason for Ginther to begin his campaign and fundraising so early, with a list of powerful donors and officials, is to intimidate other potential candidates from running. This is selfish and undermines democracy.If Ginther gets his way, he will have a coronation in 2027 instead of an election. Columbus needs a No Kings protest against him.

Joseph Sommer, Columbus

Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther speaks at the media event Sep 29, 2025 announcing the renovation of the downtown YMCA into 121 affordable housing units. The Jacobethan Revival and Late Gothic Revival building, built in 1922, is on the National Register of Historic Places. Residents who lived in the building prior to its decommissioning in 2019 by the YMCA have been moved to other residences. Woda Cooper is the private developer leading the public/private redevelopment.

Not suckers or losers

I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation for all the businesses, organizations and people who reached out to recognize our veterans on Veterans Day. As a 28-year veteran, it means a lot to know that we are appreciated.

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Also, for all those veterans who kept their oath and defended the Constitution by not voting for a treasonous insurrectionist, proudly know that you are not suckers and losers and are true patriots!

David Guza, Plain City

Can democracy survive Ohio?

Whats become of the Republican Party in Ohio reflects poorly on our state.

Weve seen state GOP politicians repeatedly thwart the voters' will and ignore the Ohio Constitution in their egregious gerrymanders.

Weve seen our two GOP senators ignore their constituents needs while applauding President Donald Trumps unconstitutional actions.

And weve seen Ohios own Vice President JD Vance repeat Trumps lies (remember their claim that Haitian immigrants in Springfield were eating pets?) and tell many whoppers of his own.

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And, now thanks to a Washington Post report, we learn that in 2019, a small group of right-wing donors rented a resort outside of tiny Rockbridge, Ohio, for a summit to secure the future of the MAGA movement.

They were out to turn Trumps movement into an enduring political coalition, with a pipeline of voters, donors and candidates that would cement a radical transformation of the GOP.

An organization of businessmen and political donors that was spawned from that meeting called the Rockbridge Network helped fuel Trumps reelection and propelled one of its own  Vance  into the vice presidency.

If American democracy survives Trump and the MAGA movement, history will record that some of its severest challenges came from Ohio.

Sara Patrick, Strongsville

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Why on Earth is Columbus' mayor stealing the spotlight | Letters
The premier of the southern German state of Bavaria is calling for a comprehensive change of course in Germany's energy policy  including the construction of new nuclear power plants.

"It's not about building large reactors like in the past. I'm talking about smaller, smart reactors, such as those already in use in Canada," Markus Soder told the Sunday edition of the Welt newspaper.

Soder said the state would not have to subsidize such "mini reactors" with as much money as it did previous plants.

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According to the Canadian government, such reactors do not yet exist in Canada. So far, only preparatory work is underway in the Ontario region, with the aim of launching the first reactor by around 2030.

Soder is the leader of Bavaria's conservative Christian Social Union (CSU) party, the sister party of Chancellor Friedrich Merz's Christian Democratic Union (CDU).

In recent years, he has repeatedly spoken out against Germany's phase-out of nuclear power, completed in 2023. However, even the former operators of nuclear reactors agree that nuclear power is the most expensive form of electricity generation.

Soder emphasized that he, too, is against state subsidies for energy production. "We want to build gas-fired power plants and expand renewable energies, but we overlook the fact that all of this is highly subsidized. We are pushing down energy prices with state money instead of focusing on cheap production."

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He called once again for the gas reserves in northern Germany to be exploited to help meet the country's energy needs.

Serious consideration must also be given to whether the mining of rare earths in Germany is worthwhile, he said.
It was a very ''unwelcome to California'' for a new school teacher in San Jose.

She and her family had just moved here from Minnesota, when a background check upended their new life.

She was mistakenly tagged as a convict -- and had to prove she was not. And it can happen to anyone.

And it does happen, especially if you have a common last name. This teacher has never been arrested -- but someone else's criminal record was pinned to her name. A big reason? Her last name is "Smith."

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Jodi Smith and her family had just moved from Minnesota to the Bay Area last year, when trouble shook their new lives.

"I don't know, I think I was just in shock," Smith said. "Literally we had just moved our family 2,000 miles... and then this."

Her husband had been hired by Apple; Smith got a job teaching special ed in the Oak Grove School District of San Jose.

It was enough to support their family of four in the pricey Bay Area.

Until it wasn't.

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"I just moved to the most expensive state in the freaking country. And I immediately lose my job. And that was freaking scary," Smith said.

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It happened just weeks into the last school year. Smith was suddenly pulled out of her classroom.

"They call me into the office, the head of HR... my background check, like it came back that I lied on it," she said. "Well, my heart stopped."

It turned out that the state's Commission on Teacher Credentialing -- known as CTC -- had denied her a teaching credential.

The CTC said a background check showed she was convicted of driving under the influence, in Tulare County, in 2009.

But that was impossible.

"Like, this isn't me. And it was so hard because you can't talk to anybody. I just kept saying this isn't me, this isn't me, and it didn't matter because they weren't gonna do anything about it," Smith said.

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Smith noted her fingerprint check showed no criminal record.

At first the CTC said she had to go to the courthouse and obtain the court record, and file it with a new application that included the conviction. And by the way, she'd have to pay a new application fee.

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Smith wrote back to the CTC, saying it wasn't her court record. The CTC said to take it up with the Department of Justice, which did the background check.

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"I mean it was incredibly infuriating!" Smith said.

Weeks later the DOJ did send that rap sheet. Turns out it listed arrests of three people who all share Smith's last name: Smith.

One of them had been convicted of that DUI.

Smith said a disclaimer noted the report was a "soft" background check, based on names and numbers, not fingerprints.

The CTC used it anyway.

"How on earth do you think you're going to do a name background check with a name like 'Smith' being one of the most common names in the country... and then the CTC says, yep, this makes sense, let's deny her credentials," Smith said.

Smith filed a dispute with the DOJ to remove that DUI from her record.

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But the wheels turned slowly.

MORE: Here's how a Bay Area couple almost paid $30,000 more on their income taxes

And students were in class. She was the teacher... but she had no credentials. Just a crime on her record.

"I hid in my classroom, and I had my door shut 90% of the time and cried," Smith said, tears falling as she spoke to 7 On Your Side.

Smith was re-assigned as a teacher's aide, then as an emergency substitute -- still running the class, but earning a fraction of her normal wages.

"I didn't know if it was right or wrong that I was showing up as a sub... if teaching these kids without a credential is legal," she said. "And then on the other side, I'm like, these are children sitting in front of me that need a teacher. Their parents expect them to be taught."

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"I still showed up to work. Put a smile on my face. When you saw me, I was dying inside," Smith said.

The DOJ did investigate her case. By December, it found that indeed Smith was not the person convicted in 2009. Jodi's name wasn't even "Smith" back then -- she was single, using her maiden name, Stanton.

The DOJ cleared her record. Smith got her credential.

But damage was done; $24,000 in lost wages, time lost with students, and months of anguish.

7 On Your Side asked the DOJ and CTC about the toll of a mistake. They did not comment.

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But the Attorney General's office tells us that the DOJ is required by law to provide all possible matches for criminal records using many identifiers, not just fingerprints.

The CTC tells us only that it's up to applicants to clear mistakes on their records.

The Attorney General's website says comprehensive background checks for licensing and credentials are meant to protect citizens, like schoolchildren.

It says: "These applicants are often candidates for positions that place them in a position of trust for some of California's most vulnerable citizenry, elderly, and dependent adults and children. As such, it is vital for the hiring or licensing authority to be aware of specified active arrests or convictions. Entrusting applicants with the responsibility of the position prior to a criminal background check potentially jeopardizes the safety and integrity of the workplace and may leave some individuals exposed to unnecessary harm. Employment and licensing authorities may also face legal liability if applicants with specified active arrests or convictions are employed or licensed when statute prohibits such action based on the successful completion of a criminal background check."

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Smith filed a claim for her loss, but both agencies are immune from paying almost all civil damages.

"I guess I'm at fault because my name is common," she said. "There's no protection for people with common names... If I had a million dollars I'd move back to Minnesota right now. I don't love this state."

The DOJ conducts about two million background checks every year. It did not say how often mistakes happen, but that it has devised a special process to challenge errors.

Defense attorneys tell us people with common names often are targeted. If it's happened to you, let us know.

Take a look at more stories and videos by 7 On Your Side.

7OYS's consumer hotline is a free consumer mediation service for those in the San Francisco Bay Area. We assist individuals with consumer-related issues; we cannot assist on cases between businesses, or cases involving family law, criminal matters, landlord/tenant disputes, labor issues, or medical issues. Please review our FAQ here. As a part of our process in assisting you, it is necessary that we contact the company / agency you are writing about. If you do not wish us to contact them, please let us know right away, as it will affect our ability to work on your case. Due to the high volume of emails we receive, please allow 7 to 10 business days for a response.

If you're on the ABC7 News app, click here to watch live
Sir Keir Starmer is expected to tell Donald Trump that the BBC must get its house in order after the US president vowed to forge ahead with a lawsuit of up to $5bn (3.8bn) against the broadcaster.

The Prime Minister is set to use a call with Mr Trump this weekend to say he believes the BBC must uphold the highest possible standards, including correcting mistakes quickly.

On Friday night, Mr Trump said he was still planning to sue the corporation, despite the broadcaster apologising for doctoring one of his speeches.

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Speaking on board Air Force One, the president told The Telegraph that he would formally seek damages of between $1bn and $5bn against the BBC as early as next week.

He claimed that Sir Keir was very embarrassed by the scandal and had already tried to put a call in to me about it.

Credit: White House pool

It is understood that Sir Keir will use the call to insist that the BBC is a strong British institution and has a crucial role to play in an age of disinformation.

The Telegraph understands that, from Mr Trumps perspective, the call will be a sense check to see what the BBC is doing to reform its processes as his legal team plans its next step.

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A senior White House official told The Telegraph that the phone call between the two world leaders would be amicable, saying: Its always going to be friendly. Thats just how the two of them are.

The BBC was thrown into turmoil by The Telegraphs revelation that it had doctored a speech delivered by Mr Trump to make it seem that he was inciting rioting at the Capitol on Jan 6 2021.

Tim Davie, the BBCs director-general, and Deborah Turness, the chief executive of BBC News, resigned last week after a backlash against the corporations worst crisis since the Jimmy Savile scandal.

On Thursday, the corporation apologised to the US president but rejected his claim of defamation. Despite the apology, Mr Trump said he could still bring legal action.

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He said: I think I have to do it. Theyve even admitted that they cheated They changed the words coming out of my mouth. The people of the UK are very angry about what happened, as you can imagine, because it shows the BBC is fake news.

Praising The Telegraphs reporting as a great service  exposing fake news, he said the broadcaster had acted worse than what CBS did with Kamala.

The president was referring to a broadcast of CBSs 60 Minutes last year, shortly before the election, when an interview with his political opponent Kamala Harris was edited to make her answer sound more coherent.

On Saturday night, Rishi Sunak, the former prime minister, said the BBC had failed in representing the views of Britain as a whole, saying that the corporation cannot be captured by any one part of the UK  it must belong to all of us.

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He wrote in The Sunday Times: It is falling short in that task, calling on the broadcaster to appoint an internal watchdog responsible for spotting problems and addressing them before they have turned into a scandal.

He added: This is the BBC Verify that the corporation actually needs. It cannot continue to sit back and wait for others to highlight its mistakes, and then ponder whether to react before comforting itself that any criticism must be driven by base political motives.

Downing Street sources said that Sir Keirs position on the BBC had not changed since earlier this week when he was asked about it at Prime Ministers Questions.

In a separate interview on GB News on Friday night, Mr Trump claimed he had an obligation to take on the BBC, which he labelled corrupt and beyond fake.

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He said: This was so egregious. If you dont do it, you dont stop it from happening again with other people. I think you probably have an obligation. Id like to find out why they did it.

Credit: Fox News

The president hit out at the BBCs stupid claim that it had unintentionally misled viewers about the content of his speech on Jan 6 2021.

They wrote me a nice letter saying [they] apologise. But when you say its unintentional, I guess if its unintentional, you dont apologise, he said. But they took my words, you know, and I made a beautiful statement, and they made it into a not beautiful statement.

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Lord Hall of Birkenhead, a former BBC director-general, told the BBC not to pay Mr Trump a penny in an interview with Laura Kuenssberg, the broadcasters political editor, on Saturday afternoon.

But Sam Nunberg, a political adviser to Mr Trumps 2016 campaign, said that the BBC should be taking this extremely seriously.

He told Radio 4s Today programme: Remember, while the president Im sure has been advised that he cannot sue because of the statute of limitations in England here, in the United States, as a resident of the state of Florida, where I speak to you from, he could bring the case here.

I suspect that a case for defamation for editing his speech on Jan 6 on the clips where it shows that he would be responsible for the violence that day, that case itself would survive the motion to dismiss.

The BBC would not be able to get the case thrown out before it would get to a jury and at that point I think a jury here in the United States, and particularly in the state of Florida, of the president of the United States would be quite favourable.
Major Chinese airlines are offering full refunds for flights to Japan after Beijing told Chinese citizens to avoid travelling there, while Hong Kong authorities also urged residents to exercise caution in the country.

Beijing's warning late on Friday and the notice issued by the Hong Kong Security Bureau on Saturday marked the latest escalation in tensions over Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's suggestion that Tokyo could deploy its military forces in the event of a conflict in the Taiwan Strait.

Air China, China Southern, China Eastern, Hainan Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Xiamen Airlines and Spring Airlines issued separate statements on Saturday saying they would allow free ticket refunds or itinerary changes for flights booked until December 31.

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Most of the policies apply to tickets bought before noon on Saturday, with only Sichuan Airlines extending the cut-off to 2pm.

The announcements came hours after China's foreign ministry issued a statement on Friday night urging Chinese tourists to avoid travelling to Japan "in the near term".

The safety of Chinese citizens in Japan had "continued to deteriorate", the ministry said, citing a series of targeted attacks this year.

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It added that the Japanese leader's "provocative remarks" on Taiwan-related issues had severely undermined the atmosphere for Sino-Japanese exchanges and posed "significant risks" to the safety of Chinese citizens in Japan.

Those already in Japan were advised to "closely monitor the local security situation, enhance safety awareness and strengthen self-protection measures".

Japan's chief cabinet secretary, Minoru Kihara, said on Saturday that Tokyo had lodged a protest over the travel advisory and "strongly" asked Beijing to "to take appropriate actions".

Kihara, the top government spokesman, said the two sides had different understandings of the matter.

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"Precisely because of differing positions, multilayered communication between Japan and China is all the more important," he said, without elaborating on the "appropriate actions".

However, a commentary published by Yuyuan Tantian, a social media account affiliated with Chinese state broadcaster CCTV, said Beijing was prepared for further measures and the travel advisory was the first step.

It said the strong words used by Sun Weidong, China's foreign vice-minister, in a meeting with Japanese ambassador Kenji Kanasugi on Thursday was a sign that Beijing already had concrete retaliations in mind if Tokyo did not retract the statement.

Sun told Kanasugi that China would "certainly and resolutely strike back with a powerful, head-on blow" against any attempt to interfere in Taiwan reunification and that Japan should take all responsibility for such retaliation.

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According to the commentary, this indicated the possibility of further measures from Beijing, including imposing its "unreliable entity list" for national security reasons, or even suspending intergovernmental communications relating to economic, foreign policy or military matters.

China is one of the biggest sources of foreign tourists to Japan, with 7.48 million trips by mainland Chinese travellers in the first nine months of this year, according to official Japanese data.

That marked a 42 per cent increase compared with the same period last year, representing the highest number from any foreign country or region.

Japan is also a favourite destination for Hong Kong tourists, with about 2.6 million visiting last year.

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In its notice on Saturday, Hong Kong authorities urged residents to exercise caution and prioritise personal safety in Japan, citing a rise in attacks against Chinese citizens in the country.

"The government reminds Hong Kong residents who intend to visit the country or are already there to exercise caution, attend to personal safety, pay attention to local announcements on the latest situation and notices on consular services from the Chinese embassy or consulate general in Japan," the notice from the city's Security Bureau said.

The moves by Beijing mark the latest escalation in tensions with Tokyo after Takaichi appeared to suggest intervention in a potential Taiwan conflict. Beijing sees the remarks as a departure from Tokyo's long-term strategic ambiguity on how it would react to military actions against Taiwan, which lies only about 107km (66 miles) from Japanese territory.

The travel advisory came a day after Beijing summoned the Japanese ambassador and lodged "solemn representations", with foreign vice-minister Sun criticising Takaichi's "egregiously wrong and highly dangerous" comments.

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Beijing sees Taiwan as part of China to be reunited by force if necessary. Most countries, including the United States and Japan, do not recognise self-ruled Taiwan as an independent state but oppose any attempt to take the island by force.

Chinese state media outlets have in recent days ramped up criticism of Takaichi's comments. On Saturday, military mouthpiece PLA Daily weighed in with a front-page commentary urging Tokyo to "immediately correct its mistake and retract its egregious remarks".

"[Japan] must not proceed further down the wrong path, or it will bear full responsibility for all consequences arising therefrom," said the article, which appeared under the pseudonym Jun Sheng, or "voice of the military".

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has said her remarks about a potential Taiwan conflict were only "hypothetical" and that she would refrain from making similar comments again. Photo: Kyodo alt=Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has said her remarks about a potential Taiwan conflict were only "hypothetical" and that she would refrain from making similar comments again. Photo: Kyodo>

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In a press conference in Tokyo on Friday, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said Takaichi would not retract her remarks.

He defended the comments as the prime minister's description of a potential "survival-threatening situation", a classification that, under Japan's 2015 security legislation, allows for the deployment of the country's military forces.

Tokyo maintains that Takaichi's comments did not deviate from Japan's position regarding Taiwan, which it says remains unchanged from what is stated in the Japan-China Joint Communique of 1972.

On Friday, Tokyo summoned China's ambassador after its consul general in Osaka responded to Takaichi's remarks with a social media post saying that "the only option is to chop off that dirty head that's recklessly thrust itself in". The post had been deleted before the meeting took place.

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In Taipei, Karen Kuo, a spokeswoman for the island's leader, said Beijing's "politically motivated, multifaceted threats against Japan pose a grave danger to security and stability in the Indo-Pacific".

Former Taiwanese leader Ma Ying-jeou wrote on social media that Takaichi's remarks were "extremely unwise" and that foreign governments should not meddle in cross-strait issues, which he said should be handled only by people from the two sides.

Observers in mainland China said Beijing's strong reaction reflected its deep suspicion of Takaichi's stance towards Taiwan.

Earlier this month, Beijing lodged strong protests after Takaichi posted photos of her meeting with Lin Hsin-i, a former senior Taiwanese politician, on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea.

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She referred to Lin as "senior adviser to the presidential office of Taiwan" and called for "deepening practical cooperation between Japan and Taiwan", which Beijing said "sent a severely wrong signal to the 'Taiwan independence' forces".

On Wednesday, Beijing criticised Tokyo for making "another wrong step" by conferring an honour on Frank Hsieh Chang-ting, the former head of Taipei's de facto embassy in Tokyo and now a senior adviser to Taiwanese leader William Lai Ching-te.

According to Wu Jinan, the former president of the Shanghai Association for Japanese Studies, the idea that "a Taiwan contingency would be a Japan contingency" was first voiced by former Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe, one year after he stepped down.

"As a sitting prime minister, Takaichi's public expression of a similar stance represents a fundamentally different context and impact due to her official capacity, making the nature of her remarks more severe," he said in an interview with The Paper, a Shanghai-based news outlet.

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Lian Degui, director of the Centre for Japanese Studies at Shanghai International Studies University, said previous sitting Japanese leaders had been cautious not to use Taiwan as a case to explain "survival-threatening situations".

"The severity of Takaichi's erroneous remarks lies precisely in this," Lian told The Paper.

"Takaichi is the first sitting Japanese minister since Japan's defeat in 1945 to publicly advocate the 'Taiwan contingency is a Japan contingency' rhetoric in an official setting and link it to the exercise of the right to collective self-defence."

Additional reporting by Fiona Sun

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This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2025 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
Beijing on Friday expressed deep concern and issued a stern warning to Tokyo against shifting its non-nuclear policy, after comments by the Japanese prime minister about Taiwan sharply escalated tensions.

Sanae Takaichi, who took office on October 21, has been considering revising Japan's long-standing non-nuclear weapons principles, Japanese media reported on Friday citing government sources.

This came after Japan's defence minister, Shinjiro Koizumi, urged the country to consider acquiring nuclear-powered submarines, while Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said Japan had "not ruled out any options" on the issue.

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Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

Regarding what would be a significant strategic shift for Tokyo from its decades-old principle of "not possessing, producing or permitting the introduction of nuclear arms", Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said that China was "seriously concerned".

"These fully reveal that Japan is making a major negative policy shift, which sends a dangerous signal to the international community," Lin told a regular press conference on Friday.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has reportedly declined to clarify whether Japan will remain committed to its non-nuclear principles. Photo: Reuters alt=Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has reportedly declined to clarify whether Japan will remain committed to its non-nuclear principles. Photo: Reuters>

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"We urge Japan to repent for its history of aggression, stick to the path of peaceful development, stop finding excuses for its military build-up, and take concrete actions to earn the trust from its Asian neighbours and the international community."

Additionally, Beijing on Friday issued a travel warning urging Chinese nationals to avoid visiting Japan. It said that the Japanese leader's "blatantly provocative remarks" concerning Taiwan posed "significant risks to the personal safety and lives of Chinese citizens in Japan".

Takaichi last week told the Japanese parliament that a Taiwan contingency involving the use of military force could be interpreted as a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan, which could allow Tokyo to engage in military action alongside US forces. Beijing has criticised her remarks as "seriously damaging bilateral ties and challenging the post-war international order".

Thursday and Friday saw China and Japan summon each other's ambassadors, with Beijing protesting against Takaichi's hint of military intervention in the Taiwan Strait and Tokyo objecting to an already deleted online post by the Chinese consul general in Osaka calling to "cut off the intruding neck".

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Beijing sees Taiwan as part of China to be reunited by force if necessary. Most countries, including Japan and its treaty ally the United States, do not recognise Taiwan as an independent state, but are both opposed to any attempt to take the self-ruled island by force.

Lin said Japan had been "drastically readjusting" its defence policy, increasing its defence budget, relaxing restrictions on arms exports, seeking to develop offensive weapons and going further down the path of military build-up. This, combined with Takaichi's "provocative remarks on Taiwan", had raised questions and concerns among its neighbours.

"Has Japan truly made a clean break with militarism? Is Japan sincerely committed to the exclusively defence-oriented policy and the Three Non-Nuclear Principles? Will Japan still act on its commitment to peaceful development?" he asked.

Japan's Three Non-Nuclear Principles were first declared by then prime minister Eisaku Sato in 1967, for which he won the Nobel Peace Prize. As the only nation to have suffered atomic bombings, Japan also actively calls for international nuclear disarmament.

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However, Takaichi has declined to comment in parliament on whether the commitment to the three principles will remain in new security policy documents.

She is reportedly reviewing the principle of not allowing nuclear weapons to be brought into Japan, citing growing concerns over nuclear-armed China, North Korea and Russia.

The White House has also given approval for South Korea, another US treaty ally, to build a nuclear-powered submarine, Seoul announced on Friday.

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2025 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Garatun holds significant cultural weight within Christian agricultural communities, particularly those with Celtic and Anglo-Saxon roots. Historically, the name emerged in regions where triangular land formations were common, often representing the Holy Trinity in Christian symbolism. These triangular farmsteads were strategically positioned at the confluence of rivers or at mountain bases, creating naturally defensible positions that also symbolized the unity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The name became associated with stewardship of sacred lands and the preservation of traditional farming methods passed down through generations of Christian families.



Throughout medieval Europe, bearers of the name Garatun were often entrusted with managing church lands and monastic farms, where the triangular layout served both practical and spiritual purposes. The three-sided configuration mirrored the Trinity while providing efficient land division for crop rotation. This dual significance made the name particularly respected in rural Christian communities, where agricultural success was seen as divine blessing. The name's association with triangular geometry also connected it to architectural innovations in church and cathedral construction, further cementing its religious importance across various Christian traditions.
Nov. 14 marks the end of Rebecca Schleicher and Ben Hill's careers on NewsChannel 5.

The two morning show personalities announced their departure from the station earlier this month in a segment hosted by longtime NewsChannel 5 personality Nick Beres. The anchors both aim to pursue opportunities outside news media, they said.

Schleicher, a 10-year traffic anchor, said on the air that her decision to leave was "an extremely tough decision."

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"After nearly 20 years in the news business, I feel called to make a change," said Hill, morning show co-anchor for five years. "Our kids are growing fast and I don't want to miss a moment with them."

The departures of Schleicher and Hill mark the latest in a series of on-air exits among Nashville news personalities. Over the years, local stations have said goodbye to a mix of legendary, longtime anchors and broadcasters with less than ten years on Music City screens.

Who else has left Nashvilles broadcast news scene in recent years? Heres what to know.

More: Bob Mueller, Lelan Statom, Holly Thompson and other news vets on stories that most moved them

Vicki Yates

Channel 5 anchor Vicki Yates during a newscast Monday, May 22, 2023, in Nashville, Tenn. Yates is retiring after 20 plus years as a broadcast journalist.

Vicki Yates concluded her 33-year tenure at NewsChannel 5 in June 2023.

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At the time of her departure, she had the second-longest tenure as a news anchor in Nashville, exceeded only by News 2s Bob Mueller. She also shared the third-longest uninterrupted on-air presence in the citys television news history, tied with former WSMV anchor Demetria Kalodimos.

Yates began her Nashville career in 1990. Over the years, her reporting earned her seven regional Emmy awards, and she served as a mentor to aspiring women journalists across all of Nashvilles TV newsrooms.

In 2024 Yates joined WNPT, Nashville PBSs main broadcast channel, as a correspondent.

More: Tennessean staff, alums salute 50-year colleague. 'Beverly is like a family member'

Amy Watson

A 2024 headshot of NewsChannel 5 morning anchor Amy Watson, who posted on Facebook in late August 2024 that she will retire in October to take care of her ailing mother

Veteran NewsChannel 5 morning anchor Amy Watson announced her retirement in August 2024 after a nearly two-decade run. According to a social media post from Watson, she retired to care for her mother, who had dementia.

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Her mother died shortly after, Watson announced in a Facebook post.

She continues to be active on social media, where she posts regular updates about her family and personal life.

"Im happier, more relaxed, and honestly a different person," Watson wrote in an October post. "I don't know where you are in life but I hope Im an example that simpler living is okay and franklymuch, much better."

Neil Orne

Channel 2 morning show co-host Neil Orne on the set Nov. 15, 2024

Neil Orne stepped away from WRKN Channel 2 last November after nearly 30 years as a morning show co-host. He joined the station in 1995 from Maine, where he had worked in country radio, and began as a weekend weather forecaster and reporter.

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Over the years, Orne shared the anchor desk with more than eight co-hosts, including a two-year stretch in the mid-2000s alongside his then-wife, Heather  Nashvilles only husband-wife news team.

At the time of his departure, Orne ranked as the sixth-most veteran TV news personality still on air in Nashville, following Mueller (44 years at WRKN), Davis Nolan (42 years at WKRN), Lelan Statom (30 years at NewsChannel 5), Jennifer Kraus (30 years at NewsChannel 5) and Nick Beres (29 years at NewsChannel 5).

"When youre 58 and waking up every morning at 1:30 a.m., you have a constant pros and cons list going," Orne told The Tennessean. "And the cons started to outweigh the pros."

Orne expressed concern about the evolving nature of local TV news and its ability to stay relevant, but clarified that he wasnt retiring, just seeking new challenges.

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In August, Orne said in a social media post: "Ill likely be starting a brand-new page soon for some exciting things in the near future. Im so grateful for all the follows and support over the yearsits truly been a blast."

Bree Smith

Bree Smith, a NewsChannel 5 meteorologist, pictured in her home in Hendersonville, Tenn., Tuesday, July 20, 2021. Smith opened up to her fans about her dad's addiction on Father's Day 2021 through Facebook Live. Smith lost her dad when she was 10.

Meteorologist Bree Smith parted ways with NewsChannel 5 in January 2025 after nine years on air.

Smith was known for her funny social media videos about the weather, holidays, behind-the-scenes moments at the station, and scare pranks targeting anchor Rhori Johnston, The Tennessean previously reported.

Neither Smith nor WTVF provided advance notice or details about her departure, which took place on Jan. 10. Smith later stated that her contract had simply ended and declined to discuss negotiations.

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In an email that month, station manager Richard Eller confirmed executives wanted Smith to stay.

In March, Bree Smith testified before a state House subcommittee in support of HB1299  the Preventing Deep Fake Images Act  and revealed she had been targeted by sexually explicit AI-generated deepfake videos. When she sought assistance from her employer, she was told that "nothing could be done," she shared.

NewsChannel 5 station manager Richard Eller later told The Tennessean that WTVF wholeheartedly shared Smiths frustrations and had made significant efforts to stop the impersonators, though without success.

Smith remains popular with her audience and is active on social media, posting frequent updates about the weather, her family and her birdfeeder. Smith also continues to advocate for mental health wellbeing, online and in the community.

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In October, she hosted a fundraiser for STARS Nashville, a nonprofit that provides education and services to students in Middle Tennessee schools around substance use disorder, trauma, bullying, depression, grief and loss and other issues.

Nikki Burdine

Nikki Burdine on the set of News 2 in Nashville in December 2024. Burdine and the station parted ways in February 2025 after she worked at the station for seven and a half years

Nikki Burdine mysteriously departed from WKRN News 2 after seven and a half years as the morning show co-anchor. Her February departure came only three months after Orne's exit.

Speculation surrounding her departure swirled after Burdine's name and photo were removed from the "anchors" section on News 2's staff page and she stopped appearing on air.

At the time of her departure, neither Burdine nor News 2 executives commented on her employment status.

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In August, Burdine stated she was fired for promoting perfume on her social media accounts. In a brief interview with The Tennessean, she acknowledged she had "probably" promoted other products, which she received for free, while employed at News 2.

Burdine remains in Nashville and hosts the "Not the News" podcast, alongside Orne. According to the program's description online, the two former anchors discuss "everything they couldn't talk about when they were on TV."

Burdine also stays active on social media, frequently sharing lifestyle and beauty content.

Davis Nolan

WKRN News 2 meteorologist Davis Nolan at Centennial Park in Nashville, Tenn., Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024

Nolan, Nashville television's longest running weather forecaster, announced his retirement in July, after a 44-year career as meteorologist for WKRN News 2.

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Nolan is only one of two Nashville news personalities with more than 40 years on the air at the same station, the other being Mueller.

Nolan, who runs a meteorology consulting business, said he'll continue doing a fishing segment, Fishing Funtacular, from time to time on News 2. He also will continue to post about weather on WKRN's social media channels, The Tennessean reported.

Courtney Allen

Courtney Allen, a news anchor and investigative reporter, announced her departure from WSMV Channel 4 in October after joining the station in October 2021.

"Thank you to everyone who trusted me to share your story, gave me opportunities to connect with the community, and helped me grow personally and professionally," she wrote online. "WSMV 4, Nashville is Nashville's station, and being part of its legacy is an honor."

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At the time of the announcement, Allen did not reveal the reason for her departure or share any future plans. She did not respond to The Tennessean's request for comment and her social media remains inactive.

Diana Leyva covers trending news and service journalism for the Tennessean. Contact her at Dleyva@gannett.com or follow her on X at @_leyvadiana

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Why these Nashville TV news personalities left the airwaves recently
Nov. 15A decade ago, city leaders were seeking ways to jumpstart population growth, and an idea was hatched that would bring educated, high-wage earners to Decatur.

The Best and Brightest Initiative is celebrating its 10th anniversary of successfully attracting recent college graduates to the city.

The initiative has brought 109 people  65 members and 44 significant others  to Decatur, and 84% still live in the city, said John Joseph, who founded the program in 2015.

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"We thought when we started the initiative we would be 35 to 40% (after attrition)," Joseph said.

While working in Decatur Corridor Development, Joseph came up with the idea from his research on ways to help the city grow. He then took the idea of Best and Brightest with him when he moved to the Decatur-Morgan County Entrepreneurial Center, where he is the director.

Joseph said there were a handful of programs around the country that would give money to help students, "but that's all they did."

He expanded the concept to offer mentors, create a network of employers, hold dinners with initiative members and prominent city residents, urge participants to get involved in the community and more.

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"At Best and Brightest, we don't want to just give you a check," Joseph said. "We want to give you a foundation for great life. We want to invest in people, not just businesses."

Joseph approached a group of prominent residents, including Jack Fite, Britt Sexton and state Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, in 2014 with the idea of offering $15,000 to help pay off student loans if the recent college graduate commits to living in the city for five years.

Fite this week said he was impressed with Joseph's idea.

"It was just such a unique, out-of-the-box idea," Fite said. "I'm very thankful for John's foresight."

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Orr said Best and Brightest caught his attention because it "has a return on investment, and that's not just in human capital. John had done the math and figured out how important a living unit is to an area when it comes to the income they bring into the community with a little seed money."

The senator said the hope was that Best and Brightest members would stay long term in Decatur, and "John has shown that they have done that."

"It's been successful," Orr said.

The 2010 U.S. Census showed Decatur's population at 55,683, and the city wasn't growing.

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"There were only two or three spots in the whole state that were growing at the time, so it wasn't just a Decatur problem," Fite said. "We were trying to come up with ideas on how to attract to our community."

Fite was chairman of the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce's committee created to find ways to boost the city's residential growth.

Initially, Joseph convinced the Fite-Sexton group and other residents and businesses to donate about $175,000 in private seed money for the project.

Joseph admitted he had his doubts when they first put the initiative online and began advertising for members.

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"You just don't know if anyone is going to notice or apply," Joseph said. "And then we had about 50 applications within five or six months."

The first class of the Best and Brightest Initiative brought in nine newcomers (members and significant others). Of the nine, six are still living Decatur, Joseph said.

"When we first started, I told the donors, 'Lets try to see if we can keep one in three,' which I think would be a realistic retention rate," Joseph said. "There are so many things that can cause a person to have to move, even if they don't want to move."

Joseph said they had to learn how to market and figure out the right message that would attract people to Best and Brightest.

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He also said they wanted interested people to know that we "don't want you to just come here and live in house. We want our members to be a part of the community."

David Medina, a biologist with Tactical Solutions, and Victoria Felgar, a U.S. Army employee at Redstone Arsenal, made the lengthy cross-country move as a couple from Tacoma, Washington, to Decatur. Medina was one of the first members of the initiative, and Felgar followed him to Alabama.

Felgar said they didn't know anyone in the area and probably would have lived in Huntsville if it wasn't for Best and Brightest. She said they've made a lot of friends through the initiative and even had some of their Washington friends follow them to Decatur.

"We were exposed to what Decatur has to offer, and we love it," said Felgar, who is now engaged to Medina. "Tacoma is bigger than Decatur, but Decatur has more of the outdoorsy life that we like, especially the (Tennessee) River."

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Lindsey Allen is a Best and Brightest member who came to Decatur three years ago from Jacksonville and brought her husband, Hunter Allen, with her. While he's a Decatur native, she's a newcomer.

"We've made countless friends," said Hunter Allen, who became the city's Parks and Recreation director in August. "And it really helped me reacclimate."

He said the money from Best and Brightest helped his wife with her student loans.

"We were able to buy a home because of the help we got from Best and Brightest," Hunter Allen said.

Decatur's Best and Brightest was up to 21 members when Orr got the state Legislature involved in 2020. Orr got the Legislature to allocate $120,000 each for Decatur and the Demopolis area in Marengo County. The one difference is the member had to be an Alabama native to receive the funding.

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"He (Joseph) had to have proof of concept so we could take it to a higher level," Orr said. "We put in the state money as a pilot project. We also want to see this might be replicated elsewhere in the state."

He said they've been more successful in Decatur than Demopolis because it's easier to attract students to this more urban area than to the rural Black Belt of south Alabama.

Starting with $100,000 a year, the city got involved five years ago and then really increased its support in the second year with $500,000 for each of four years, including fiscal 2026.

"After we got a chance to see how it could work on a small scale, they proved they can make it work," said former City Council President Jacob Ladner, whose term ended last week.

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Ladner said he committed to $500,000 a year for the final four budgets of his term because Joseph said he could grow the program to over 100 new residents.

"It's all about residential growth," Ladner said. "And I believe in what he's doing, so I said I would do my best to convince the council and mayor to support it."

Best and Brightest had 32 people in 2023. The number jumped to 56 last year and almost doubled this year.

"You could see that there's support for this program out there," Joseph said. "We're talking about half of a percent of this year's (city's fiscal 2026 budget of $101 million) that's bringing it new skilled workers, new community volunteers and leaders and new customers for small businesses. They're returning the money to the taxpayers."

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Orr said he appreciates that the city "took ownership of Best and Brightest. They've seen the economic impact on their coffers." He said this will allow the state to move on after next year and help another community start a similar program.

After initially focusing on science, technology, engineering and math graduates, Joseph added medical and education majors to meet the needs of Decatur Morgan Hospital and Decatur City Schools.

He also changed the initiative so members can use the $15,000 for not only student loans but also housing expenses.

Orr said one of the things he's been impressed with about the initiative is that Best and Brightest members have gotten involved in civic organizations, churches, nonprofits and other key areas of the city.

"You can't put a dollar sign on that," Orr said.

 bayne.hughes@decaturdaily.com or 256-340-2432
A teen boy has died following a Saturday afternoon shooting near his home in the Roseland neighborhood, according to authorities.

The boy, 15, got into an argument with an unknown gunman just before 12:40 p.m. in the 9200 block of South LaSalle Street, Chicago police said. The gunman then pulled out a firearm and shot the boy in the chest.

The boy, Robert D. Gunn Jr., was transported to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, where he was pronounced dead, according to the Cook County medical examiners office. An autopsy is scheduled for Sunday.

Police said no suspects are in custody and detectives are investigating.
A Bakersfield police detective accused of having obscene material involving a 15-year-old girl was released Wednesday subject to a range of conditions including electronic home monitoring.

Bakersfield Police Department detective Marc Lugo was arrested in May on suspicion of illegal possession of obscene material involving a minor after a tip identified an Instagram account that had engaged in explicit communications with a 15-year-old girl from South Carolina.

Lugo was released to the custody of his wife, Heather Lugo, also a BPD detective, and ordered to participate in electronic home monitoring, remain under house arrest and not use the internet or devices capable of accessing the internet.

Lugo remains on paid administrative leave until the conclusion of the department's administrative review process, expected to take place after the criminal trial.
A YouTube clip from Montana has left viewers shaking their heads (and, let's face it, internally cheering a little) after two men learned the hard way that taunting wildlife isn't a good idea.

The short video posted by ABC7 (@ABC7) shows the pair approaching a moose standing on the side of an icy road. One man creeps up and touches the animal on its hindquarters, only to slip and fall as the massive creature whirls around in response.

The moose charges as the men scramble away. Lucky for them, neither was hurt  but it was a close call that could have easily turned deadly. Moose are powerful and unpredictable, and encounters like this can end in serious injury for both humans and animals.

As wildlife experts so frequently remind people, wild animals are not props for social media and deserve distance and respect. In national parks, approaching animals closely like this can lead to fines and even bans. Not only is harassing wildlife dangerous for people, but it can also injure and stress the animals. Plus, in some cases, animals are euthanized after harming people  even if they were provoked.

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Sadly, this is only one example of many swirling on the internet showing people harassing wildlife or just getting too close. From tourists provoking a bull elk in Colorado to people feeding wild animals and getting too close to large predators like bears  yes, bears. This sort of behavior is unbelievably more common than it should be.

Conservation groups such as the Wildlife Conservation Society and widely accepted principles like Leave No Trace offer simple, science-based guidelines for safely sharing spaces with wildlife  including giving them plenty of space, avoiding feeding or startling them, and reporting harassment (like the men in the video) to local authorities.

Viewers flooded the comments with outrage and disbelief.

"That moose was tame in its charge here. They were lucky that's all it did," one user wrote, while another added, "In my state that is 100% illegal....you can NOT harass the wildlife."

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Others called for fines or criminal charges, pointing out that harassing wildlife is both dangerous and unlawful in many states, including Montana.

As more than one commenter summed it up perfectly: "Play stupid games, win stupid prizes."

Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely Only in some areas No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

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Whats in a name? History.

In Merced County, the city of Los Banos is whitewashing its history by mispronouncing its name.

Phonetically, the proper, historical pronunciation of the town is: lohs BAN-yohs.

But its been bastardized through the years when pronounced: lohs BAN-ohss.

Dropping the simple y sound at the end of the correct pronunciation is not only disrespectful, its also cultural and historical erasure.

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In a state with Spanish names peppered everywhere  San Jose, Los Angeles, San Diego, Fresno, etc.  it would be respectful if California correctly spelled or pronounced that place in deference to cultural history.

Credit for the citys name goes to Felipe Royo de Laquesta, a Franciscan monk, whose missionary work would take him to bathe in a creek and nearby pools in the Diablo Mountain Range.

The area was named Los Banos del Padre A. Royo in his honor, and it was used by Mexican ranchers to identify the area when petitioning for land on the north fork of Los Banos Creek in the early 1800s.

The name was shortened not long after that and given to a settlement built around a store near Volta, just northwest of present-day Los Banos. Translated into English, Los Banos means The Baths.

What happened to the n?

In March 1873, entrepreneur Moses Korn petitioned for a post office to be located near Volta because residents would have to travel to Gilroy for their mail. Eight months later, the federal government approved the post office and named him postmaster.

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The n  one of 27 letters in the Spanish alphabet  remained until 1889 when Henry Miller moved the post office to the current site of Los Banos over opposition from residents who didnt want it moved. Miller won out because he had the backing of the Southern Pacific Railroad.

This 1877 post office document has Los Banos with the tilde and without the tilde. Over the years, the tilde has disappeared.

Pictures of the new railroad depot show a lack of the tilde as well, explained Milliken Museum docent Javier Powell in a Facebook video that explains how Los Banos got its name. And with that, the new Los Banos became Los Banos, marking the end of an 80- to 90-year process.

Shortly after American settlers moved in, the Latino population dropped to about 2%, said Powell, who spent a month researching the citys history. With Basques and Italians among the newcomers not knowing Spanish, the loss of the tilde wasnt significant, Powell said.

But through the decades, the tilde has appeared and disappeared. Former Los Banos Enterprise publisher Gene Lieb, recalls seeing copies of the newspaper from 1910 with the tilde in the masthead. He even showed people letterhead from the local bank that used the tilde.

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Liebs reintroduction of the tilde in 2007 ran into controversy. Descendants of Italians and Basques who claimed their ancestors started the city chided the publisher for spelling the citys name correctly.

City officials jumped into the fray, defending Los Banos as the name on paperwork when the city charter was approved in 1907, said Lieb, now publisher of the West Side Express newspaper.

My contention was that all they had was manual typewriters that didnt have the tilde, Leib told me in 2012. The tilde wasnt there, not because they didnt want to put it there, but because no typewriter had it.

Los Banos is correct

In todays high-tech world, it is easy to use diacritical marks on names. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation last month allowing names with diacritical marks to be recorded on birth, marriage and death certificates. The legislation, AB 64, was authored by Assemblymember Blanca Pacheco, D-Downey, after two previous versions failed.

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Recording peoples names correctly sends the message that their identity matters and they belong here, Pacheco said in a statement. Our names represent our culture, our family and our dignity.

The same can be said for place names like Los Banos.

San Jose and San Jose State University request the use of the accent mark in their names. La Canada Flintridge, 9% Latino, proudly uses the tilde. Without the tilde, Los Banos has no meaning at all. Theres no way the city can point to the springs and pools in the Diablo Mountains and say it birthed the communitys name.

The debate continues

Insurance agent Joe Gutierrez, a former Spanish-language instructor at Merced College, said he would prefer the tilde be used but admitted the community is divided on the issue. He has lived in Los Banos for 35 years.

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History-wise, the tilde is right, Gutierrez told me. Somewhere along the line it was dropped.

Gutierrez remembers the uproar a decade ago when the tilde appeared on the city newspapers masthead. He would prefer the tilde be used to accurately reflect the citys name, but believes it will be up to the city council to educate itself and residents about the original name with the tilde.

Once you put the tilde in, youre going to divide the community, said Gutierrez. Im proud of the history of this city. This is a proud history. Lets embrace it.

Gutierrez remembers his early years in Los Banos where the city logo would proclaim Los Banos: The City of Spring Baths.

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With or without the tilde, Powell of the Milliken Museum said the citys connection to Father Felipe Royo de Laquesta is still there, its just evolving.

I agree, Los Banos has a rich history. Officially using the tilde would affirm that identity and show respecto.
CORONA  A historic Main Street with rusted and vacant storefronts is, for resident and teacher Amanda Dunlap, a sign that young people need more reason to stay.

Corona, a rural village of just over 1 square mile about two hours south of Santa Fe off Interstate 54, is bleeding students, she said.

You do see all of those kids moving out, said Dunlap, an agriculture teacher for Corona Public Schools, a district of around 100 students.

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Unless they come from land-owning rancher families, she added, theres little reason for kids to stay or return  spurring a brain drain that helped push the population from more than 500 in the 1950s to just 129 by 2020, according to census estimates.

For me it was always, How can we prevent that mass exit with all of our kiddos?  Dunlap said.

Leaders across rural New Mexico, many of whom have watched similar declines, think they may have a path forward  and it starts in school.

Backed by $400,000 from the Department of Workforce Solutions, they've launched an initiative to build career pathways beginning in preschool and extending to age 20.

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Rural school administrators and department officials gathered this week in a small Corona auditorium to unveil the Rural P-20 Workforce Collaborative, a career technical education program for a couple dozen rural districts.

The initiative aims to promote work-based learning in every grade. The goal is to replicate urban districts' success in career education while halting trends of youth departing rural hometowns for opportunities in bigger towns and cities.

I hope that this partnership is just the beginning, said Lee White, superintendent of Loving Municipal Schools, a district of about 700 students and a lead partner on the proposal.

White added the investment in career programs aims not only to pique students interest in a way they otherwise might need to leave their hometown for  but also to connect them to work that exists in and serves their rural community.

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Very similar to what the urban districts are providing, we feel that it's important that our rural districts can offer some of those similar opportunities," White said.

Loving, Corona Public Schools and Mosquero Municipal Schools are among the initiatives core partners  a collaboration spurred not by the state, but by Corona leaders who visited rural communities in West Texas for inspiration.

Johnna Bruhn, superintendent of Mosquero Municipal Schools, said her district of roughly 90 students is as rural as it gets.

So when it comes to attempting to develop relationships with workforce development, we have to seek outside of our county  we have to seek other creative means, she said.

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It was in places like Roscoe  a Texas town that, like Corona, has dedicated its flatlands to wind energy  that New Mexico's rural districts saw how a West Texasbased nonprofit connected rural schools to career opportunities in their communities.

Corona school leaders spearheaded the effort to establish a partnership between the Texas nonprofit, Collegiate Edu-Nation, and rural New Mexico months before the Department of Workforce Solutions caught wind of the efforts.

Bruhn said visiting the Texas districts left her gung-ho about the P-20 career education model; her district has already adopted video calls with working professionals, where pre-K through 12th graders can ask career questions.

When state officials learned of the brewing partnership with the Texas nonprofit  and had just received new flexible funding  it was a really happy coincidence, said Sarita Nair, New Mexico's Workforce Solutions Cabinet secretary.

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Her department earlier this year received a $17 million, three-year allotment through the Community Benefit Fund, part of a $210 million package approved last legislative session to support communities as they transition toward clean-energy jobs.

One of the bills sponsors, state Senate President Pro Tempore Mimi Stewart, an Albuquerque Democrat, said in a news release the plan was designed to spark exactly this type of creative partnership.

Lee White, Corona

Superintendent Lee White of Loving Municipal Schools addresses an audience during a recent news conference in the village of Corona. Loving and Corona are two leader districts in a state-funded effort to invest in career technical education in rural school districts.

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This investment, she said, will give young people real skills and paths to stay in the rural communities they love while building our states capacity to face the challenges of a changing climate and economy.

Coronas economy is already shifting. The SunZia project has erected so many wind turbines throughout the region in recent years they've begun to outnumber residents.

When the wind farm came, Dunlap said, project managers stressed the need for drone operators, electricians and construction workers.

Before that, work options in Corona were limited.

We're agriculture-based. Ranching pays the bills around here, said Cody Lightfoot, school board president for Corona Public Schools.

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For non-ranchers, he added, you either work at the school, or like me down here at the highway department  those were the only two jobs.

But the new initiative, he said, opens doors.

They don't have to wait  to go into a community college or something to figure out what they're going to do, Lightfoot said. Its a game changer for rural schools.
New Castle County never promised speed in addressing tax assessment appeals.

The county still has 3,909 formal appeals to go through as of Nov. 14, according to a county spokesperson. More than 3,400 of those are residential properties. That is out of more than 5,200 formal appeals.

The county has settled 820 appeals, and 315 county-approved stipulations are awaiting a signature from property owners.

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Additionally, 155 appeals were found deficient and are awaiting more documents. Thirty-two formal hearings are scheduled.

There has been a lot of push and pull among the county, the courts and the taxpayers in the last few months. Property tax bills were held, payment deadlines were extended, and appeals were slowly rolling throughout. A press release from July warned that going over the more than 5,200 appeals was a "time-consuming process" expected to take several months.

Delaware Supreme Court just upheld a Chancery Court ruling keeping the residential and non-residential tax rates on the books for this year. The state legislature thiss month extended the payment deadline to the end of the year for people not paying through escrow accounts.

NEW TAX BILLS EN ROUTE What to know on New Castle County property taxes post-lawsuit

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Jay Youngcourt of Claymont is getting nervous about the timeline. His appeal, which he said was assigned the number 26, has not had a decision yet. He last heard from the county that his appeal documents were being reviewed on Oct. 10 and on Oct. 17, and that if a formal hearing is needed then the county will reach out again with the relevant details.

"We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate through the appeals process," the Oct. 17 email from the county assessment division reads. "Rest assured, New Castle County is dedicated to ensuring each appeal receives the attention it deserves."

Youngcourt is confident his appeal will end up in his favor, but he said his mortgage escrow account and overall budget for the next year is in "major limbo."

"It's messing with my 2026 budget," he said. "Until they get a tax bill posted, we can't get a mortgage escrow analysis done."

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New tax bills will be sent out no earlier than Nov. 20, and the due date for payments is Dec. 31. Details on applications to payment plans and potential credits and refunds of prior excess payments are forthcoming.

Shane Brennan covers Wilmington and other Delaware issues. Reach out with ideas, tips or feedback at slbrennan@delawareonline.com.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: More than 3,900 tax appeals are still pending in New Castle County
The federal government is now funded through the end of January, but benefits like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program will take some time to be distributed.

Some local people who rely on food assistance say they've yet to see their full benefits restored.

And one local food pantry that is trying to fill the void says it's seeing more first-time clients than ever.

Some SNAP recipients say they have received part of their monthly benefits.

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They hope the rest of the money will come just in time for Thanksgiving.

For now, some are resorting to local food pantries to feed their families.

"The normal for one person is $298. I have my mom on it and they gave her $19," Nicole Belmont said.

Belmont says she and her mother have received partial benefits so far.

She came to the Pilsen food pantry for the first time, as she waits for the rest of her SNAP money to come in by next week.

Maria Torres says she and her husband are on a fixed income.

SEE ALSO: ABC7 Chicago kicks off annual Feed the Love campaign as SNAP benefits in limbo | How to donate

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Torres said in Spanish she typically receives $200 worth of SNAP benefits per month, but only has received $80 since the government shutdown ended.

The Pilsen Food Pantry says they just saw one of their busiest weeks ever since they opened the pantry in 2018.

"In a regular week before pre- SNAP benefits being cut off, we were seeing an average of 24 first-time clients per week, which is a small amount of people we serve. Last week we were looking at about 120 just last week, first-time clients," said Steve Wiley, Pilsen Food Pantry manager.

Care for Real, a food pantry out of Edgewater, says they're also seeing a dramatic increase in first-time clients.

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"On Monday night we've seen a 65 percent increase of neighbors coming to ask for food, many of them coming first time asking for food, many of them coming for the first time either because of the government shutdown, or because pause on SNAP funding," said Gregory Gross, executive director of Care for Real.

The Illinois Department of Human Service says the remaining benefit payments will be made in the coming days, with all SNAP recipients receiving their full November payments by the 20th of this month.

It's something that families are anxiously waiting for.

"It's been hard you see we are out here trying to do what we can. But it's been hard feeding the kids," Belmont said.

The Pilsen Food Pantry says they currently need more volunteers and monetary donations to continue to serve families.
Nov. 15 (UPI) -- Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent comments about Taiwan have prompted the Chinese government on Friday to advise its citizens against traveling to Japan.

While the advisory does not prohibit China's citizens from going to Japan, the warning is the most serious rebuke of the Japanese prime minister's comments so far, according to CNN.

Hong Kong's Security Bureau on Saturday issued a similar notice to its residents.

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Seven Chinese airlines also told passengers who are scheduled to fly to Japan that they will refund ticket prices or allow ticketholders to change their flight routes through the end of the year.

The travel warnings came after Takaichi last week told lawmakers Japan could use its military to intervene in any conflict that might occur in the Taiwan Strait that separates Taiwan from mainland China.

She said any military action against Taiwan by China would create a self-defense situation that could trigger a military response from Japan.

Chinese officials have demanded the prime minister retract her comments, including one official who referred to her as an "evil witch" and another who mentioned cutting off a "dirty neck" that stuck itself into Chinese matters, NBC News reported.

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Takaichi so far has refused to retract her comments, though, according to China Daily.

China has laid claim to Taiwan and has hinted at using military force, if necessary, to assert its territorial claim to the self-ruling island nation that became the refuge of Chinese nationalists after communist forces took control of the mainland in 1949.

The prime minister's comments also drew a rebuke from former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.

Ishiba, during a radio interview on Thursday, said Takaichi's comments were "very close to claiming that a Taiwan contingency is a Japan contingency."

Other national leaders had avoided saying how the Japanese government might respond to matters in Taiwan under certain situations, he added.
Nazrin Abdul

While states often interact primarily through economic interests on the international stage, the relationship between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan transcends this traditional framework. Here, cooperation is not merely transactional - it is anchored in shared history, cultural affinity, and fraternal solidarity. Economic collaboration exists and is important, but it serves as a platform to reinforce deeper ties of trust, mutual respect, and a sense of shared destiny.

This unique dimension of the relationship was highlighted in a recent interview by President Ilham Aliyev with Uzbekistan National News Agency. The Azerbaijani president emphasized that bilateral relations have reached an unprecedented level, describing the partnership as an "alliance." Such terminology reflects a relationship rooted in brotherhood, not just diplomacy or trade.

The world recognizes that Azerbaijans deepest wound was the occupation of Garabagh, which was ultimately liberated through the decisive victory of its armed forces. Today, the Azerbaijani government is undertaking extensive efforts at the state level to rebuild and restore the region. Even while Azerbaijan was still grappling with the aftermath of the conflict, offers of assistance came from its closest allies to support the reconstruction of Garabagh. While the country is fully capable of undertaking this restoration independently, such gestures from fraternal nations are warmly welcomed, carrying significance that goes far beyond practical aid. Such gestures not only strengthen bilateral ties but also foster a profound sense of fraternal closeness between the two peoples.

Recalling this pivotal moment, President Ilham Aliyev highlighted the special role of the country: "Uzbekistan was the first country and President Mirziyoyev was the first among world leaders to put forward the initiative to provide assistance in the restoration of the Garabagh region. We will always remember and regard this action as a symbol of solidarity, friendship and brotherhood between our countries and peoples.

Leadership initiatives have further reinforced bilateral ties. Reciprocal high-level visits, with five visits in just a year and a half, underscore a relationship characterized by high dynamism. Such engagements signal not only personal rapport between leaders but also a strategic commitment to deepening collaboration across all sectors. Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan actively coordinate within multilateral frameworks, including the Organization of Turkic States, UN, Non-Aligned Movement, OIC, ECO, and CICA, strengthening both bilateral and regional cooperation.

Trade and investment cooperation between the two countries has expanded rapidly, reflecting strong political will and shared economic priorities. Nearly 120 Uzbek-invested enterprises operate in Azerbaijan, spanning industry, agriculture, construction, transport, and services. Trade turnover in 2024 reached $252 million, and in the first nine months of 2025, it surged by 87.5% year-on-year to $319 milliona striking indicator of accelerating economic engagement.

Investment collaboration is also on the rise. The 2023 establishment of the joint Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan Investment Company, with $500 million in capital, demonstrates a commitment to strategic projects within both countries and in third markets. Notable projects, such as the garment factory in Khankendi, illustrate how economic cooperation can simultaneously foster social and cultural ties, reinforcing the fraternal dimension of bilateral relations.

Institutional mechanisms, such as the Intergovernmental Commission on Cooperation and the Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan Regional Forum, have been instrumental in identifying opportunities and facilitating sustained economic engagement. With nearly 200 bilateral agreements providing a robust legal framework, both countries are well-positioned to expand cooperation across all sectors.

Transport and logistics remain a key pillar of Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan cooperation. The Middle Corridor International Transport Route, in which Azerbaijan serves as a crucial transit hub for Central Asian goods, has gained strategic importance. In 2024, transit traffic between the countries increased by over 18%, surpassing 1.3 million tons, with continued growth in 2025. Azerbaijans modern infrastructureincluding the Alat Free Economic Zone (AFEZ), the BakuTbilisiKars railway, nine international airports, and a growing commercial fleetpositions it as a regional logistical hub. The opening of the Zangezur Corridor further strengthens Azerbaijans role in connecting Central Asia to global markets.

Air connectivity complements these developments. Frequent flights between Baku and Uzbek cities facilitate business, tourism, and cultural exchange, cementing people-to-people ties alongside strategic economic corridors.

Energy cooperation is another cornerstone of bilateral engagement. SOCAR exports petroleum products to Uzbekistan, while the joint venture "Neftegaztekhnologiya," operating since 2016, highlights industrial collaboration. Strategic agreements signed in 2024 between Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan to integrate energy systems and advance renewable energy mark a forward-looking commitment to sustainable regional development.

Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan relations today are more than the sum of trade agreements and diplomatic visits. They reflect a strategic partnership rooted in shared values, historical solidarity, and mutual economic interest. From reconstruction assistance in Garabagh to joint ventures, transit corridors, and energy integration, the relationship demonstrates resilience, depth, and dynamism.

In this context, the Azerbaijani-Uzbek partnership stands as a model of how economic pragmatism, strategic foresight, and fraternal solidarity can converge, shaping not only bilateral relations but also regional stability and prosperity. The trajectory of cooperation suggests that this alliance will continue to expand across multiple dimensions, reinforcing both countries roles as pillars of the Turkic world and broader Central Asian connectivity.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Hershel is a name deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, derived from the Yiddish name Hirsch, which itself comes from the Hebrew word 'tzvi' meaning deer or gazelle. In Jewish culture, the deer has long been symbolic of grace, beauty, and swiftness, qualities often associated with the tribe of Naphtali in biblical texts. The name became particularly popular among Ashkenazi Jews in Eastern Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries, where it was often used as a vernacular form of the Hebrew name Tzvi. During the Holocaust era, the name gained additional historical significance through figures like Hershel Grynszpan, whose actions became a catalyst for major historical events. The name carries with it centuries of Jewish cultural heritage and has been borne by scholars, artists, and community leaders throughout Jewish diaspora history.



The name's evolution reflects the broader story of Jewish migration and cultural adaptation. As Jews moved from Hebrew-speaking communities to Yiddish-speaking regions of Europe, biblical names were often translated or adapted into vernacular forms. Hershel represents this linguistic bridge, maintaining its connection to Hebrew tradition while functioning comfortably in European Jewish communities. In modern times, the name has come to symbolize both cultural preservation and the resilience of Jewish identity through centuries of diaspora and adaptation.
By Eduardo Baptista

BEIJING (Reuters) -China has begun preparations to send a Shenzhou spacecraft to its permanently inhabited space station ahead of schedule, state broadcaster CCTV reported on Saturday.

Shenzhou-22 is being sent without anyone on board to the Tiangong space station six months ahead of its planned launch in order to put China's manned space programme back on track.

The Shenzhou missions have run like clockwork since 2021 until ten days ago when Shenzhou-20 was damaged while docked at Tiangong, forcing its three-person crew to stay an extra nine days along with another trio of astronauts.

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On Friday, the Shenzhou-20 crew boarded the Shenzhou-21 spacecraft and successfully returned to Earth, leaving the newly arrived trio of astronauts who had arrived two weeks ago without a vessel that could take them home in the event of an emergency.

Shenzhou-22 is being sent ahead of schedule to plug this security risk and allow the Shenzhou-21 crew to return to Earth around April 2026, once they complete their half-year shift.

"Preparations for the Shenzhou-22 mission have commenced. The spacecraft will carry a full cargo load, including astronaut provisions and equipment for the space station," CCTV reported.

Tiangong has a maximum capacity of six crew, but this can only be temporarily sustained as the facility is designed to host three astronauts for six months.

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China has not yet announced what will happen to the damaged Shenzhou-20, which is suspected to have been hit by space debris, slightly cracking the window of the its return capsule.

Experts have suggested the vessel could be undocked from Tiangong and deorbited over the Pacific.

(Reporting by Eduardo Baptista; Editing by Alexander Smith)
Chinas first super-sized Type 076 amphibious assault ship, the Sichuan, has left port for its first sea trials. The Type 076 is unlike any other big deck amphibious warship design globally, featuring an electromagnetically-powered catapult to support an air wing expected to include naval versions of the GJ-11 stealthy flying-wing uncrewed combat air vehicle (UCAV).

The Type 076 amphibious assault ship Sichuan seen leaving Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard for its first sea trials. Government of the Peoples Republic of China

Sichuan, which has now also been assigned the hull number 51, left Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai on its maiden voyage earlier today. The ship, which is currently the only one of its type, has been under construction in that yard since at least 2023. A ceremony marking its launch was held on December 27, 2024, and it was actually floated for the first time in its basin sometime afterward.

This sea trial will mainly test and verify the reliability and stability of the power, electrical, and other systems, according to a release from Chinas Ministry of National Defense. Since its launch, the ship has successfully completed mooring tests and equipment installation and debugging, and has met the technical conditions for sea trials.

 China launched the maiden sea trail for its world's first electromagnetic catapult-equipped Type 076 amphibious assault ship, the Sichuan.



This new-generation amphibious assault ship of the PLA Navy has a full-load displacement of over 40,000 tons, capable of carrying pic.twitter.com/lbkEPAe9ug  Shen Shiwei  (@shen_shiwei) November 14, 2025

There had already been signs in recent weeks of significant new progress on the final fitting out of Sichuan, including the painting of full markings on its flight deck.

GEOINT analysis on 28 October 2025 shows newly painted deck markings onboard Chinas Type 076 Landing Helicopter Dock vessel.

https://t.co/epfzHD4aZI



Spotlight Report  Critical intelligence delivered to your inbox. https://t.co/n0XDPQNx8A#GEOINT #China #Shanghai #Sichuan pic.twitter.com/NcyuSKW4lM  AllSource Analysis (@AllSourceA) November 13, 2025

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Finally a clearer image of the first Type 076 LAH / drone carrier with the recently applied deck markings. pic.twitter.com/NAyK1X19vc  @Rupprecht_A (@RupprechtDeino) November 13, 2025

Another image, seen in the social media post below, had emerged at the end of last month showing what is very likely a red-colored catapult test truck on Sichuans deck. This, in turn, had pointed to the start of testing of the ships lone catapult.

Shipbuilders and navies around the world, including Chinas Peoples Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) and the U.S. Navy, have long used weighted trucks to test catapults on aircraft carriers as part of their construction or following maintenance.

The video below shows testing of the catapults on the U.S. Navys supercarrier USS Gerald R. Ford using weighted trucks.

Overall, Sichuan represents a particularly notable development for the PLAN. Chinese officials have said the Type 076 displaces more than 40,000 metric tons (44,000 U.S. tons). TWZ has previously assessed that the ship is around 864 feet long and that it is some 141 feet wide (or 263 and nearly 43 meters, respectively). Chinas previous Type 075 amphibious assault ships, of which there are now four in service, have a stated displacement of between 32,000 and 36,000 metric tons (35,000 to 40,000 U.S. tons) with a full load, and are just over 761 feet long and nearly 121 feet wide. Sichuan is also notably wider than other big deck amphibious warfare ships in service globally, including the U.S. Navys America class.

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Sichuans unusually wide flight deck is absolutely core to the design. Along with the ships two islands, this has long made clear the ship is heavily focused on sustained flight operations. This will include fixed-wing types launched via the catapult at the bow end and recovered via some form of arresting gear.

Another view of the Sichuan as it heads out to sea for its first sea trials. Government of the Peoples Republic of China

There have been growing signs for years now that a navalized variant of the GJ-11 UCAV, also sometimes referred to as the GJ-21, will be an especially significant part of Sichuans future air wing. Most recently, around the beginning of this month, pictures emerged showing a version of the drone with an arresting hook very prominently deployed. Last year, apparent GJ-11 mockups had also appeared at a test and/or training site right on Changxing Island in Shanghai, very close to where the Type 076 was being built.

As it seems, for the first time clear images of a GJ-21 in flight are posted and this one  based on the still installed pitots  has its tail hook down. pic.twitter.com/5h1nVZHzIe  @Rupprecht_A (@RupprechtDeino) November 1, 2025

A pair of apparent GJ-11 mockups at a test and/or training site on Changxing Island in Shanghai in May 2024. Google Earth

Just this week, Chinese authorities announced that the land-based version of the GJ-11, now officially named the Mysterious Dragon, had entered operational service with the Peoples Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). Any future naval versions of the drone could also find their way onto other big deck ships in the PLANs inventory, including its first catapult-equipped aircraft carrier, the Fujian, which was commissioned last week.

A PLAAF GJ-11 Mysterious Dragon UCAV. PLAAF

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Sichuans air wing will not be limited to variations of the GJ-11 design, and is expected to include a host of other current and future crewed and uncrewed types. Various helicopters, as well as an as-yet unnamed crewed tiltrotor aircraft under development in China, which is now in flight testing, could be part of that mix.

The Type 076 design also has a well deck at the stern to support traditional amphibious assault operations.

As TWZ previously wrote about the overall significance of the Sichuan:

The potential value to the PLAN of having a fleet of very large deck amphibious assault ships that are highly capable of large-scale drone operations as well as traditional amphibious assaults is clear. These ships could be used to launch and recover UCAVs like the GJ-11 and other types of drones to perform a host of missions from maritime strike to intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). They could be used to provide additional mass in support of the operations of larger carrier strike groups and help to free the air wings of flattops like Fujian up for tasks they might be better suited for. In addition, they could provide a lower tier of naval aviation support that could be employed independently.

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Simply having more naval aviation capacity overall would give the PLAN added flexibility for various operations closer to the mainland, including a potential military intervention against Taiwan or defending its expansive and largely unrecognized territorial claims in places like the South China Sea. Type 076s could also help project naval and air power further from Chinas shores, something that has also been a driving factor behind the countrys broader carrier ambitions.



The Type 076 could help provide support during humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. Big deck amphibious warfare ships, in general, provide their operators with immensely valuable platforms for projecting both hard and soft power.

A view of Sichuan from the stern as it leaves port for its first sea trials. Government of the Peoples Republic of China

Sichuan is reflective of a larger effort by the PLAN to significantly expand its capabilities and operational capacity, including for projecting power well beyond Chinas shores and any regional contingencies. A dramatic expansion in the naval aviation realm has been a particular centerpiece of this modernization push, which traces all the way back to the 1990s. This is all further underscored by the increasingly strong evidence that Chinas next supercarrier will be a nuclear-powered design.

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Whether the PLANs current ambitions include plans to acquire more Type 076s is unclear. Putting it to sea now is certainly another major step in the process of getting Sichuan into actual operational service.

Contact the author: joe@twz.com
China has warned its citizens against traveling to Japan as it escalates a backlash over comments by the countrys prime minister about the island of Taiwan.

The dictum is Beijings most substantive retaliation yet to Sanae Takaichis remarks. Even as it may be more symbolic than anything, the move suggests Beijing is willing to wield its economic heft to press geopolitical points, a well-worn playbook.

Recent blatantly provocative remarks on Taiwan have further damaged the atmosphere for people-to-people exchanges creating additional risks to the safety and security of Chinese citizens in Japan, a statement published by the Chinese Foreign Ministry said Friday.

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The ministry and its missions remind Chinese citizens to refrain from visiting Japan for the time being, it said.

Following the announcement, a number of Chinese airlines including Air China, China Eastern and China Southern on Saturday published notices on their websites offering customers refunds or free changes on certain tickets to Japan, Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reported.

On Sunday, Chinas Ministry of Education also advised its citizens to exercise caution when making plans to study in Japan, citing a worsening public security situation in the country and claiming there had been a surge in crimes targeting Chinese nationals.

The moves by Beijing are its latest displays of outrage in a roughly week-long row after Takaichi, in response to a question in Japans parliament, said that a Chinese attack on Taiwan would count as a situation threatening Japans survival, and thus could trigger a military response from Tokyo.

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Beijing views the self-governing democracy of Taiwan as its territory and has vowed to take control of the island, by force if necessary. For Beijing, Taiwans sovereignty is the most sensitive issue in its relations with other nations  a red line not to be crossed.

Chinas Ministry of Defense on Friday separately warned that Japan would suffer a crushing defeat if it dared to intervene militarily in the Taiwan Strait.

Beijings travel warning was mirrored on Saturday by authorities in the financial hub Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region of China, with residents there urged to exercise caution in visiting Japan.

Nearly 7.5 million travelers from China visited Japan between January and September this year, by far the highest count of any country or region, according to official data cited by Japanese public broadcaster NHK.

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The travel advisory follows official protest from both sides related to the incident  with each country summoning the others ambassador  and a surge of vitriolic backlash against Takaichi from within China, where nationalist, anti-Japanese sentiment has been on the rise in recent years.

The falling-out comes less than two weeks after Takaichi and Chinese leader Xi Jinping met for the first time on the sidelines of an international summit and agreed to pursue constructive, stable ties.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Chinese leader Xi Jinping shake hands prior to their meeting on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in South Korea last month. - The Asahi Shimbun/Getty Images

A heavy price

The backlash was kicked off by Chinas Consul General in Osaka Xue Jian, who last Saturday shared a news article about Takaichis remarks and commented the dirty neck that sticks itself in must be cut off, in a post on X that has since been deleted.

State media has since published a barrage of scathing commentaries and editorials, while rampant social media discussion has disparaged Takaichi, Japans first woman prime minister.

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A commentary from the Peoples Liberation Army Daily published Saturday attacked Takaichi and said if Japan intervened militarily in the Taiwan Strait, China would give it a head-on blow. A PLA-affiliated X account also circulated comments translated into Japanese warning Japan would pay a heavy price in such a case.

Tokyo on Friday summoned Chinas ambassador to Japan to protest Xues highly inappropriate remarks and demand Beijing take appropriate actions, its foreign ministry said.

Beijing had a day prior summoned Japans ambassador to China, in a meeting where Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong said Takaichis comments had seriously damaged the political foundation of China-Japan relations, and slammed Japan for not retracting them.

Japans Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi on Friday said there was no need to retract Takaichis comments, stressing that they were made within the context of a discussion on an existential crisis situation.

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Separately on Friday, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are important not only for Japans security but also for the stability of the international community.

On Monday, Takaichi said her remarks were hypothetical and that she would refrain from making similar comments in parliament again.

Previous Japanese leaders have avoided discussing Taiwan in the context of a military response. And Washington deliberately remains vague on how it would respond to a hypothetical invasion, a policy known as strategic ambiguity.

Beijing, which is widely seen as aiming to establish itself as the dominant power in the region, looks warily at the American alliance with Japan when it comes to its own regional security and ambitions.

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Takaichi has called for closer security ties with the US and last month moved to accelerate the countrys defense build-up, but like previous Japanese prime ministers she must balance the countrys close economic ties to China.

This story has been updated with additional information.

CNNs Junko Ogura, John Liu and Joyce Jiang contributed to this report.

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BOLDUAN: Is there an example of anyone beating Donald Trump at this game?

SCHNEIDER: Never. This is his game and hes great at it, and she is barking up a tree that she says is going to fall on her really hard.

JENNINGS: You know, its interesting, he has some people who profess to be strong supporters who do oppose him more often than the people that you might not think are his strongest supporters. Shes one of them. Thomas Massie in Kentucky is another one. Rand Paul, my home state senator, he takes on Trump, although they professed to be Trumps supporters in this case. I think he had the order out of order.

I trace all this back to his decision, the righteous decision to strike Iran. She was against it. So were some of the people who occupy that wing of the party. He defied them. And since that time, they all seem to be stridently picking at him on this issue or that. And then of course, everybody knows in Washington, Miles, you know, the fastest way to get in front of a television camera for a Republican is to come out and crap on Donald Trump.

And so that is what she is doing. That is what she is doing because she 

TAYLOR: I trace back further than that, Scott.

JENNINGS:  is mad over these issues and thats what happened.

TAYLOR: Scott, I trace it further back than that. I trace it back to ten years ago when you said Donald Trump was an authoritarian. And you know what, Scott, Ive got to hand it to you, that was a remarkable forecast. Because ten years later, I think you called it. Heres Donald Trump today, the man with the heart and soul of a fascist showing us, he now has the bona fides

JENNINGS: Hes not a fascist.

TAYLOR: by tonight ordering investigations into American citizens (INAUDIBLE) members of his party.

(CROSSTALKS)

JENNINGS: Why are you so upset he is running the executive branch?

TAYLOR: For the same reasons you predicted he shouldnt, for the same reasons, Scott, you said he violated his oath and he should never be back in that office.

JENNINGS: I happily voted for him.

TAYLOR: Thats why Im upset for the man being in the Oval Office.

JENNINGS: I happily voted for him three times.

TAYLOR: I know that.

JENNINGS: The alternative was terrible.

TAYLOR: And a lot of your friends were shocked.

JENNINGS: Yes. Well, a lot of my friends wouldve been shocked at you trying to subvert the elected president of the United States, which you did.

TAYLOR: Well, and I proudly did. I proudly said 

(CROSSTALKS)

TAYLOR: Well, Scott, I wouldve loved to have seen you stand up.

JENNINGS: Good luck.
To counter its image as one of the world's worst plastic polluters, Coca-Cola has made many eco-friendly promises and started some green initiatives at its plants around the world. However, its commitment to these principles seems to go only as far as the next headline or photo opportunity.

Recently, Coca-Cola South Africa came under fire for the death of an owl at its bottling plant in Midrand, The Citizen reported.

What's happening?

In early October, company officials contacted a pest control company to get rid of an owl inside their factory. It is unclear exactly what species the owl was, but experts speculated that it was likely a barn owl, since that is the more common of the two species active in the area. The pest control professional did not have the expertise to capture and relocate the owl, so she contacted the Owl Rescue Centre next.

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"She explained the urgency of the matter to us. All production was stopped and Coca-Cola was losing hundreds of thousands in revenue," wrote Brendan Murray from the conservation group in his Facebook post about the incident, per the Citizen.

Despite Murray's best efforts to hurry to the plant, he received another call on the way: The owl was dead. "It's clear that they don't have any value for our wildlife. It seems as if they were not prepared to lose more revenue," Murray said, per the Citizen.

Coca-Cola sent the Citizen a statement that the barn owl died from flying into a glass window and door. However, even if that is true, the question remains whether that happened because the owl was being chased, likely because the company valued restarting production over the life of the animal.

Why is one owl important?

Although the life of one owl is small compared to the massive impact that the company has had on the lives of both humans and wildlife across the planet, this is a microcosm of Coca-Cola's attitude toward the environment. It might greenwash its products with small green initiatives, but it continues to embrace many harmful environmental practices.

What's being done about the incident?

Commenters online were outraged over the incident and called for retribution, as quoted by the Citizen.

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"Boycott Coca-Cola," wrote one user. "All their products are bad for us anyway."

"That's the last Coke for me," agreed another.

If the owl itself isn't reason enough to stop drinking Coca-Cola, then what it represents might be.

"Ironically, the owl was probably inside their plant doing pest control of its own," said one commenter.

"I will literally stop buying Coca-Cola not only because of this owl, but because the owl in situ means there are rats," said another user.

The National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is also conducting an investigation.

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"This is the third or fourth time we've had issues with Coca-Cola. They are a serial problem," said Murray, per the Citizen.

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 Center Square)  Quietly tucked inside Republicans funding deal to end the government shutdown is a provision wiping the congressional Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO) scorecard, effectively forgiving nearly $3.4 trillion in deficits.

When Republicans passed their budget reconciliation bill in July, which included a permanent extension of the 2017 tax cuts, they broke precedent by operating under current policy baseline. This accounting method treats tax cut extensions as a continuation of current policy that costs nothing, rather than new policy that decreases federal revenues.

As a result, Senate Republicans were able to codify the tax cuts via a simple majority vote without having to fulfill reconciliation rules that require offsetting the deficit impact. Senators could not, however, bypass similar PAYGO rules unless they had 60 votes.

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Under PAYGO, a law meant to ensure budget neutrality, the Office of Management and Budget records the deficit impact of legislation.

If Congress passes legislation that hikes mandatory spending or decreases revenue, and does not offset the deficits by the end of the year, automatic spending cuts to Medicare and other programs are triggered.

The tax cuts in the reconciliation bill added roughly $3.4 trillion to the PAYGO scorecard. But rather than finding offsets or accepting the automatic cuts to mandatory spending, Congress added a provision in the recent government funding bill  which fulfilled the 60-vote requirement  to reset the PAYGO scorecard to zero.

That's why this was included in the appropriations bill. It had nothing to do with appropriations, Romina Boccia, director of budget and entitlement policy at the Cato Institute, told The Center Square. It was all about getting those 60 votes, because that's what PAYGO requires in order to eliminate those required spending reductions that would have been triggered by the Republicans' reconciliation bill.

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This is hardly the first time Congress has wiped the PAYGO scorecard to avoid the consequences of a bills deficit impact.

In fact, Congress has never allowed the automatic spending cuts to take effect. Lawmakers wiped the PAYGO scorecard for the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and the American Rescue Plan, while simply excluding both the CARES Act and the CHIPS and Science Act from the scorecard.

There's a lot of hand-waving when it comes to these deficits, but unfortunately, because Congress has pretty much consistently eliminated the spending cuts from the PAYGO scorecard in all instances  whether the Democrats put the deficits on there, or the Republicans  there's been very little fight on it, Boccia said.

What it tells us is that PAYGO has become completely worthless, and that we should replace it and stop pretending like we have a deficit-controlling rule on the books when it's pretty much understood that it will always be negated, she added.

The U.S. racked up close to $2 trillion in net federal deficits during fiscal year 2025, according to the Congressional Budget Office, causing the national debt to top $38 trillion in October.
Nov. 14 (UPI) -- President Donald Trump lowered but did not eliminate reciprocal tariffs on beef, fruits, coffee and other foods in an effort to lower food prices for consumers.

The president announced the reduced tariffs a day after securing trade agreements with Argentina, Ecuador, El Salvador and Guatemala, although a 15% tariff remains in effect for Ecuador, according to The Hill.

"Today's order follows the significant progress the president has made in securing more reciprocal terms for our bilateral trade relationships," the White House announced Friday in a news release.

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"President Trump's deals have had and will continue to have broad impacts on domestic production and the economy as a whole, including enhanced market access for our agriculture exporters."

The other nations will continue to have a 10% tariff in effect, but they could be lowered or eliminated for certain products.

Certain agricultural products won't be subject to reciprocal tariffs, including tropical fruits and fruit juices, beef, cocoa and spices, bananas, oranges, tomatoes and fertilizers, according to the White House.

Consumers are paying more for coffee, beef and other foods since Trump initiated his reciprocal tariffs policy in April to offset tariffs being charged on U.S.-produced goods in respective nations, CNN reported.

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The Consumer Price Index shows people are paying about 20% more for coffee than they did a year ago due to the president's 50% tariff on coffee imported from Brazil, which is the nation's largest supplier of the beloved caffeinated beverage.

Tomatoes also are costing more and will continue to have a17% tariff when imported from Mexico after a trade agreement between that nation and the United States expired in July.

Bananas and other food products that are not produced in the United States also are subject to tariff reductions.
A 61-year-old Corona man was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon after deputies said he attempted to abduct two young girls in separate incidents, according to the Riverside County Sheriffs Office.

The first incident occurred around 4:13 p.m. on Nov. 11 in the 25000 block of Santiago Canyon Road, where deputies from the Lake Mathews Station responded to a report that a 12-year-old girl had been grabbed by the arm and nearly pulled into a vehicle. The girl escaped and ran to a nearby adult for help, deputies said.

Authorities quickly obtained a description of the suspect and his vehicle. During a search of the area, the suspect, identified as Delory Sinclar of Corona, was located and arrested in the 11000 block of De Palma Road in the Temescal Valley area of unincorporated Corona. Investigators later learned that Sinclar had also attempted to kidnap a 14-year-old girl just prior to his arrest. Neither of the victims sustained injuries.

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Following his arrest, Lake Mathews investigators obtained search warrants for Sinclars residence and vehicle. On Nov. 12, deputies served a warrant at his home on Blackhorse Circle in the Horsethief Canyon area, recovering evidence related to the kidnapping, other possible crimes, and a large quantity of illegal narcotics, the sheriffs office said.

Delory Sinclar, 61, of Corona, was arrested by Riverside County deputies for allegedly attempting to kidnap two minors and is facing additional charges including molesting a minor and possession of illegal narcotics. (Riverside County Sheriff)

LAPD seeks additional victims in child abduction, assault case

Sinclar was booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center on $1 million bail, facing charges including kidnapping, attempted kidnapping, annoying or molesting a minor, and possession of illegal narcotics.

The Riverside County Sheriffs Office is continuing to investigate and believes there may be additional victims. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact Investigator Andrews at the Lake Mathews Sheriffs Station at 951-272-5600.

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The case remains active and ongoing, and no further details were released 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 KTLA.
BKL, the architectural firm that initially designed the Rogers County Courthouse, will work again with the county to renovate it.

The Rogers County Commissioners approved a $401,321 contract with the firm during their Monday meeting. BKL will supply blueprints for the renovations, help the county prepare construction and bidding documents and provide oversight during construction. Under the contract's terms, the design phase of the project will take about 10 months, while bidding will begin next October.

The board had considered BKL's proposal at its previous meeting, but only District 3 Commissioner Ron Burrows had been present. Burrows, who has spearheaded the county's remodeling and expansion plans, tabled voting on the contract until the other two commissioners returned so they could ask questions.

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The total cost of $401,321 includes a $40,000 package of new furniture for the expanded courthouse. Burrows said the cost only accounts for BKL's labor to secure the furniture, not the value of the furniture itself.

"It is listed as an alternate," Burrows said. "It is an option we can choose to go with or not based on how the project goes. If we come in under, maybe we could look at that."

"That's not been an experience for us very much lately," District 2 Commissioner and Chairman Steve Hendrix replied.

Hendrix said he opposed buying new furniture; he said the county's departments could make use of what they have until needs arise.

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Bryan Miles, BKL's director of construction, said the firm could always remove the furniture package later.

The renovation will disperse the county planning commission, maintenance department and Oklahoma State University Extension from their offices in the courthouse. The maintenance department will take over a former auto repair shop at 327 S. Cherokee Ave.

The planning commission and OSU Extension will become two of the three occupants of the Rogers County Annex, the former Department of Human Services building at 2020 Holly Road the county purchased earlier this year. The Rogers County Election Board, now based at 415 W. First St., will join them under current plans.

The county hasn't released detailed plans of how the renovations will transform the courthouse, which Burrows said must expand to meet the needs of Rogers County's rapidly growing population. Burrows has said District Attorney Matt Ballard's office will take over the OSU Extension office, as Ballard's staff has grown in recent years.

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Another growing county department is the planning commission, for whom the commissioners voted to purchase two SUVs Monday.

Missy Richardson, the planning commission's director, said the department has nine people but just four vehicles, one of which is on its last legs.

"One of the four is now limping along, thanks to our creatures underneath in the stormwater system below the parking lot," Richardson said. "We're having some rodent problems eating the wires in our cars."

Hendrix said Richardson had asked for the vehicles in her budget request, but he thought it more appropriate for her to present them as a separate item.

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Richardson said one of the vehicles, a Chevrolet Tahoe, is already ready for pickup but the other, a Chevrolet Traverse, won't be available until Jan. 26, 2026.

Also at Monday's meeting, the commissioners recommended the Oklahoma Department of Transportation to choose Talala-based Kellogg Engineering to redesign a low water crossing on 4130 Road.

The low-water crossing, which sits on the Rogers-Craig county line north of Chelsea, spans Little Dog Creek. District 1 Commissioner Dan DeLozier said even a few inches of rain can cause the creek to flood the road, which is why earlier this year, the commissioners identified bridging it as its top priority with its share of the statewide County Improvements for Roads and Bridges fund.

Kellogg previously worked with ODOT and Rogers County to redesign the Winganon Causeway, the only bridge drivers can use to cross Lake Oologah. The final phase of that project, which began in 2023, came closer to ending Nov. 4 when ODOT reopened the county road connecting Oologah and Talala to the causeway bridge.

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The commissioners took no action after conferring for nearly an hour in a closed executive session about a civil rights lawsuit filed against them.

A Vinita woman, Kimberly Harrel, filed a federal civil rights suit Oct. 8 against the state, Rogers County and four other plaintiffs. Harrel's daughter Logan died last October when a teenager from Missouri who law enforcement said was driving a stolen car crashed into the Harrels' vehicle, injuring the mother and killing her daughter.

The teenager, Anthony Giancola, and his parents are three of the other defendants. The state is currently prosecuting Giancola under seven charges, including first-degree murder. The fourth is Keenin Marcotte, the Rogers County Sheriff's Office deputy who was pursuing Giancola at speeds over 100 mph up until the fatal crash.
Chicago police issued a warning on Friday about recent crash-and-grab burglaries targeting retail businesses on the city's Northwest and West sides.

Police say new video shows the alleged suspects driving a stolen car through a business to get inside.

They then take items like clothing and shoes before driving away in another stolen vehicle, which appears to be a van.

The thieves have hit at least two businesses in Garfield Park and Humboldt Park. Police said the burglaries happened at the following times and locations:

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4000-block of West Madison Street on Nov. at 4:48 a.m.

800-block of North Kedzie Avenue on Nov. 10 at 4 a.m.

The suspects are described as males around 15-19 years old who weigh about 110-150 lbs. They wear all black with black masks.

Police asked anyone with information to call Area Four detectives at 312-746-8253 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com and use Reference #P25-4-026.

INTERACTIVE SAFETY TRACKER Track crime and safety in your neighborhood
Individuals bearing the name Hueil are typically characterized by strong independence, natural leadership abilities, and a principled rebelliousness. They possess the courage to stand against established authority when they perceive injustice, reflecting the legendary Hueil's defiance of King Arthur. These personalities often demonstrate strategic intelligence combined with martial confidence, making them effective in challenging situations where conventional approaches prove inadequate. Their loyalty runs deep to family, close companions, and personal principles, though they maintain a healthy skepticism toward hierarchical power structures and may resist being constrained by others' expectations.



The Hueil personality balances fierce determination with a strong sense of personal honor and regional identity. They tend to be protective of their community and traditions while remaining open to innovation when it serves their principles. While sometimes perceived as stubborn or confrontational, this stems from deeply held convictions rather than mere contrarianism. Their charisma naturally draws followers, and they excel in positions where they can defend what they value while maintaining their autonomy. The combination of strategic thinking, personal bravery, and commitment to principle makes Hueil-named individuals formidable when championing causes they believe in, though they may struggle in environments requiring strict conformity or unquestioning obedience.
Trooper Kody R. Gullett has been named the 2025 Trooper of the Year at the Ohio State Highway Patrols Xenia Post.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Trooper Gullett, 26, was selected by his fellow officers at the Xenia Post for his leadership abilities, professional ethics, courteous treatment of others, enthusiastic work attitude, and cooperation with supervisors, peers, and the public.

TRENDING STORIES:

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Trooper Gullett joined the Ohio State Highway Patrol in November 2022 and has served at the Xenia Post since then.

Originally from Dayton, he graduated from Miamisburg High School and served in the U.S. Air Force.

He holds a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from Cleary University and currently resides in Beavercreek.

Trooper Gullett has been recognized within the post and the broader Piqua District for taking on leadership responsibilities, including leading recruitment efforts for the Xenia Post.

He has received several commendations for his service.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
Welcome to the online version of From the Politics Desk, a 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, Peter Nicholas surveys Democrats on what they think should happen to President Donald Trumps ballroom if they take back the White House in 2028. Plus, Kristen Welker dives into where the politics around health care stand with the shutdown resolved. And I answer this weeks reader question on redistricting.

Sign up to receive this newsletter in your inbox every weekday here.

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 Adam Wollner

If Democrats regain the White House, what would they do with Trump's ballroom?

By Peter Nicholas

The East Wing that President Donald Trump tore down last month stood for decades.

The ballroom hes building in its place could be gone not long after the first wave of guests sit down for dinner, depending on the outcome of the 2028 presidential race.

If elected, a Democratic president would have plenty to worry about aside from White House decor. But a new president may face considerable pressure from within the Democratic fold to do something about a massive new ballroom forever linked to Trump.

Already, Democratic lawmakers and candidates are workshopping ideas for repurposing the space in favor of something thats decidedly un-Trump. If any of these come to fruition, the $300 million ballroom that Trump birthed could take on a function that he never intended.

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Here are some of the proposals:

Convert it into a museum: Saikat Chakrabarti, a Democrat whos running for retiring Rep. Nancy Pelosis seat in California, suggested turning the ballroom into a Smithsonian-run museum. If elected, he said he will introduce a bill aimed at converting the ballroom into a museum focused on corruption and autocracy.

A hybrid model: Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., envisions a structure that could accommodate some dinner guests, but would also showcase exhibits related to U.S. democracy.

One side of the space would display the various attempts to undermine and thwart popular democracy in American life, starting with King George III during the Revolutionary War era and ending with Trumps attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 election, Raskin said. He said he would name the space the Democracy Matters Ballroom.

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Let the people decide: Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., said the ballrooms future should be decided by way of vox populi. We need a White House that is not for the tech billionaires, but for forgotten Americans, he said.

In that spirit, we should ask Americans  in rural communities, urban centers and hollowed-out factory towns  for their ideas of what to do with the space, Khanna added.

Get rid of it: Others would prefer to just do away with the ballroom entirely.

I dont think it would be a bad idea to tear it down, Rep. Steve Cohen, D-Tenn., said. Its this gigantic blob there thats Donald Trump.

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Read more from Peter 

With the shutdown over, where does the health care fight go next?

Analysis by Kristen Welker

While signing the bill to end the government shutdown Wednesday night, President Donald Trump repeated his call for turning Obamacare subsidies into direct payments for Americans, his latest attempt to flesh out his partys path forward on health care.

Coalescing around a full-fledged plan to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act has been a white whale for Trump and his party for more than a decade. The president told me last December, before he took office, I want to have better health care for less money, and there are ways of doing it, I believe.

But 10 months into Trumps second term, with Republicans in full control of Washington, theyve yet to offer an alternative plan. (Remember, Trump chipped away at the health care law during his first term, but the GOPs efforts to fully repeal it didnt win enough votes to pass.)

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It speaks to how politically fraught this moment is for the GOP ahead of next years midterm elections.

Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel, a key architect of the Affordable Care Act, told me on Meet the Press NOW on Thursday that Republicans have no ideas about how to make health care affordable.

Voters made clear in this months elections that affordability and the economy were among their top concerns. And while almost everyone agrees that health care costs are moving in the wrong direction, it remains to be seen what Republicans in Washington will do to try to show Americans theyre meeting the moment.

Our recent NBC News poll suggests they have work to do.

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That poll found voters were effectively split on which party would do a better job dealing with the economy, the worst showing for Republicans since late 2017 and down from consistent double-digit leads for the GOP from 2018-2023. And Democrats have a 23-point edge over Republicans on the question of which party would handle health care better, tied for their largest lead since 2008.

Trump said repeatedly he would meet with Democrats on health care as soon as the shutdown was over. Will that meeting happen? And after Democrats failed to extract an extension of Obamacare subsidies as part of the deal to reopen the government, how will the issue play into their midterm messaging, both in primaries and general elections?

Ill unpack all of it this Sunday on Meet the Press with Sens. Tim Kaine, D-Va., and John Barrasso, R-Wyo., and Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif.

 Mailbag: Unintended redistricting consequences

Thanks to everyone who wrote in! Heres this weeks reader question:

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Is there any possibility that in the feverish redistricting that has happened and will happen, that some formerly solid Republican districts will become diluted and therefore more competitive and potentially in play in 2026?

So far, Republicans have appeared to avoid putting any solidly GOP seats in play in next years midterm elections with their mid-decade redistricting push.

Lets look at their biggest effort to this point in Texas. Under the new lines enacted over the summer, no Republican incumbent is running in a district that President Donald Trump won by less than 10 points, according to our own Ben Kamisar.

That also doesnt mean that all five Democratic districts Republicans targeted will necessarily flip next November. Three of them  Texas 9th, 32nd and 35th districts  moved so far to the right that they will almost assuredly be pickups for the GOP. But Trump would only have won the other two districts, the 28th and 34th, by single digits, so Democrats will still have a shot to hold on to them  especially since midterm environments tend to favor the party thats out of power in Washington.

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Theres also one GOP-held seat that largely wasnt touched by redrawing in Texas but could end up being competitive if the political winds are blowing Democrats way. Trump carried Texas 15th District, represented by Republican Rep. Monica De La Cruz, by 18 points last year, but only by 2 in 2020.

It underscores an important point in all of this: Political coalitions change, sometimes dramatically, from election to election. The new maps this year are generally being drawn using the 2024 election as a baseline. And while we can make broad, informed assumptions about which direction districts are likely to go in, ever-shifting electorates make it difficult to predict exactly how new maps in Texas and elsewhere will play out down the road.

 Today's other top stories

Thats all From the Politics Desk for now. Todays newsletter was compiled by Adam Wollner and Owen Auston-Babcock.

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If you have feedback  likes or dislikes  email us at politicsnewsletter@nbcuni.com

And if youre a fan, please share with everyone and anyone. They can sign up here.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
AES Indiana, the utility that has a monopoly on electricity in central Indiana, has proposed rate hikes that would increase bills for its 530,000 customers by 13% by 2027, the Indy Star reported, on top of the 40% they have already risen since 2020. However, Indianapolis City-County Council members from both sides of the aisle are taking a stand against the hikes to protect their residents.

AES proposed hikes that would raise the average home's monthly bill by about $20, raking in an additional $193 million in annual revenue for the utility. While the company cited infrastructure upgrades and investment in clean energy as the reason for the hikes, its plan also included a proposal to increase its shareholders' profits from 9.9% to 10.7%.

Jesse Brown, a self-identified Democratic socialist council member, countered that the utility should find a way to operate with shareholders receiving only 5%, because Indiana residents can't afford to pay extra just to boost profits for investors.

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"You can't squeeze blood from a stone," Brown said in his comments to IURC, which must approve or deny the rate hike early next year, the Indy Star reported. "Without drastic changes like the ones I propose, we will see hardworking Hoosiers become homeless, just for the profit of a monopoly utility company."

Brown joins council Republicans in opposing the change. On Sept. 8, Republican councilors Michael-Paul Hart and Joshua Bain put forth a resolution that urges AES to back down on the proposal.

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A Mexican migrant allegedly assisted by a Wisconsin judge in evading arrest by immigration authorities earlier this year has been deported, officials said Friday.

Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, 31, who has a lengthy criminal history, was sent back to his native country on Thursday, the Department of Homeland Security said.

"Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, a previously removed illegal alien, has a laundry list of violent criminal charges including strangulation and suffocation, battery, and domestic abuse. Judge Hannah Dugan's actions to obstruct this violent criminals arrest take activist judge to a whole new meaning," said DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin.

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Dem Judge In Hot Seat After Dhs Exposes 'Whole New Level' Of Activism, Sheltering Illegal Immigrant

Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, 31, left, and Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan.

"Thanks to the brave men and women of ICE law enforcement, this criminal is OUT of our country," she added. "If you are here illegally and break the law, we will hunt you down, arrest you, and remove you from our country. That's a promise."

Flores-Ruiz, who was previously deported from the United States in 2013, made headlines in April when he was arrested after a pre-trial hearing before Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan.

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Dugan was also arrested for allegedly hiding Flores-Ruiz in her jury room to prevent his arrest as ICE agents attempted to take him into custody at the courthouse.

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Dugan is accused of knowingly helping Ruiz exit a courtroom through a back door that was not accessible to the public in an effort for him to evade ICE authorities. She also allegedly told officers in her court that they needed a warrant to make the arrest.

Former Daca Recipient With Violent Criminal Past Flees Ice, Tries Balcony Jump During Chicago Arrest

The surveillance footage released by Milwaukee County appears to show Judge Hannah Dugan, wearing her black robes, confronting ICE agents in the courthouse hallway.

At the time of the incident, Flores-Ruiz's alleged victims were in the courtroom with state prosecutors when Dugan helped him escape immigration arrest, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said.

She was arrested and charged with obstruction and has pleaded not guilty.

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In May, the judge filed a motion to dismiss the charges against her, saying she was acting in her official capacity as a judge and therefore is immune to prosecution. She argued that the federal government violated Wisconsins sovereignty by disrupting a state courtroom and prosecuting a state judge.

Flores-Ruiz entered the U.S. illegally in 2013 through Nogales, Arizona before he was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol. It was not known when he re-entered the country.

Last week, a judge sentenced him to time served for the immigration violation.

Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, 31, was deported to his native Mexico following months in detention after a Milwaukee judge allegedly tried helping him evade arrest by immigration authorities.

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"I very much hope you can find a way to make a living back home rather than coming back here," U.S. District Judge Pamela Pepper told him during his sentencing.

Fox News Digital's Greg Wehner contributed to this report.





Original article source: DHS deports illegal migrant charged with violent crimes who'd been aided by judge to avoid ICE arrest
Department of Homeland Security agents are "surging" to Charlotte, North Carolina, on Saturday, Nov. 15, to "ensure Americans are safe and public safety threats are removed," according to department spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin.

Americans should be able to live without fear of violent criminal illegal aliens hurting them, their families, or their neighbors," said McLaughlin, the DHS assistant secretary for public affairs, in a statement emailed to USA TODAY on Nov. 15.

"We are surging DHS law enforcement to Charlotte to ensure Americans are safe and public safety threats are removed," McLaughlin said. "There have been too many victims of criminal illegal aliens, and President Trump and Secretary Noem will step up to protect Americans when sanctuary politicians wont.

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The arrival of federal agents comes as President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown expands to more Democratic-run cities, including Charlotte, led by Democratic Mayor Vi Lyles.

A pastor reads the Bible during a standoff with police officers outside the Broadview ICE facility, after U.S. President Donald Trump ordered increased federal law enforcement presence to assist in crime prevention, in Chicago, Ill. on Nov.1, 2025. Law enforcement officers operate during a protest near the Broadview ICE facility, following U.S. President Donald Trump's order to increase the federal law enforcement presence to assist in crime prevention, in Broadview, a suburb of Chicago, Ill. on Nov. 1, 2025. Protesters stand outside the Broadview ICE facility, after U.S. President Donald Trump ordered increased federal law enforcement presence to assist in crime prevention, in Chicago, Ill. on Nov. 1, 2025. A protester records a Cook County Sheriff's police officer outside the Broadview ICE facility, after U.S. President Donald Trump ordered increased federal law enforcement presence to assist in crime prevention, in Chicago, Ill. on Nov. 1, 2025. Flowers lay near the feet of Illinois State Police officers outside the Broadview ICE facility, after U.S. President Donald Trump ordered increased federal law enforcement presence to assist in crime prevention, in Chicago, Ill. on Nov. 1, 2025. Police confront demonstrators during.a protest outside of the immigration processing and detention facility on Oct. 11, 2025 in Broadview, Illinois. Demonstrations have been taking place outside of the facility for several weeks as the Trump administration's Operation Midway Blitz has been underway, arresting and detaining immigrants in the Chicago area. Demonstrators in costume protest outside of the immigration processing and detention facility in Broadview, Illinois, on Oct. 12, 2025. Demonstrators with opposing viewpoint argue outside of the immigration processing and detention facility on Oct. 12, 2025 in Broadview, Illinois. Demonstrations have been taking place outside of the facility for several weeks as the Trump administration's Operation Midway Blitz has been underway, arresting and detaining immigrants in the Chicago area. Community members attend a religious service in a designated "Free Speech Zone" outside of the immigration processing and detention facility on Oct. 12, 2025 in Broadview, Illinois. Demonstrations have been taking place outside of the facility for several weeks as the Trump administration's Operation Midway Blitz has been underway, arresting and detaining immigrants in the Chicago area. Demonstrators stand outside a cordoned-off area during a standoff with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and federal officers in the Little Village neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois, October 4, 2025. Police clash with demonstrators during a protest outside an immigrant processing and detention center on October 3, 2025 in Broadview, Illinois. The site has been the target of frequent protests as federal law enforcement agents continue Operation Midway Blitz in the Chicago area, an operation designed to apprehend and deport undocumented immigrants living in the area. A protester washes chemical irritant from his eyes after federal agents deployed tear gas and pepper balls outside of the ICE processing facility on Sept. 26, 2025, in Broadview, Illinois. People protest outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in the Chicago suburb of Broadview, Ill., Oct. 3, 2025. People protest outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in the Chicago suburb of Broadview, Illinois, on Oct. 3, 2025. Federal agents detain a protester outside of the Broadview ICE processing facility, after President Donald Trump ordered increased federal law enforcement presence in Chicago to assist in crime prevention, in Broadview, Ill., Sept. 26, 2025. A protester runs as pepper balls are fired by federal agents outside of the Broadview ICE processing facility, Sept. 26, 2025. Federal agents detain a protester outside of the Broadview ICE processing facility, Sept. 26, 2025. U.S. Border Patrol agents and police keep watch as people protest outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in the Chicago suburb of Broadview, Illinois, on Oct. 3, 2025. People protest outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in the Chicago suburb of Broadview, Ill., Oct. 3, 2025. A demonstrator is detained as people protest outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in the Chicago suburb of Broadview, Ill., Oct. 3, 2025. A police officer holds a demonstrator as people protest outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in the Chicago suburb of Broadview, Ill., Oct. 3, 2025. A man is detained as people protest outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in the Chicago suburb of Broadview, Ill., Oct. 3, 2025. A demonstrator is detained as people protest outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in the Chicago suburb of Broadview, Ill., Oct. 3, 2025. A demonstrator is detained as people protest outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in the Chicago suburb of Broadview, Illinois, on Oct. 3, 2025. Military veterans hold a press conference to express support for a 70-year-old Air Force veteran who was shoved to the ground before being taken into custody for standing in a roadway while protesting last week outside of an immigrant processing and detention center on Oct. 2, 2025 in Broadview, Ill.. The site has been the target of frequent protests as federal law enforcement agents continue Operation Midway Blitz in the Chicago area, an operation designed to apprehend and deport undocumented immigrants living in the area. Supporters of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), waving U.S. flags, argue with an anti-ICE protester about immigrant detention outside the Broadview ICE facility, amid heightened federal security following President Donald Trump's order to expand federal presence and intensify immigration enforcement in Chicago through the Department of Homeland Security, in Broadview, Ill., on Oct. 2, 2025. Activists protest outside of an immigrant processing and detention center on Oct. 2, 2025 in Broadview, Ill. A federal law enforcement agents confronts demonstrators from the turret of an armored vehicle during a protest outside an immigrant processing and detention center on October 3, 2025 in Broadview, Illinois. The site has been the target of frequent protests as federal law enforcement agents continue Operation Midway Blitz in the Chicago area, an operation designed to apprehend and deport undocumented immigrants living in the area. Chicago protests push back against increased federal immigration raids 1 of 28 A pastor reads the Bible during a standoff with police officers outside the Broadview ICE facility, after U.S. President Donald Trump ordered increased federal law enforcement presence to assist in crime prevention, in Chicago, Ill. on Nov.1, 2025.

In response to DHS's efforts, the city of Charlotte's government shared a statement on Nov. 15: "The expected U.S. Customs and Border Protection's operations are causing unnecessary fear and uncertainty in our community as recent operations in other cities have resulted in people without criminal records being detained and violent protests being the result of unwarranted actions."

Additionally, the city's government said in its statement that anyone who needs "the police, don't hesitate to call 911. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department does not participate in Immigration and Customs Enforcement or U.S. Customs and Border Protection operations and is not involved in the planning or execution of any federal immigration enforcement activities."

The city also asked community members who want to make their voices heard, "do so peacefully," as local officials "do not want to see violence like many witnessed in other cities."

What is DHS doing in Charlotte?

Before the announced deployment, Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry L. McFadden said on Nov. 13 that federal officials had not disclosed any specific details about DHS's operation, including how many agents would be sent to the city or what their mission would entail. The sheriff added that his agency would not be "involved with any measures regarding enforcement with Immigration and Customs Enforcement and CBP."

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Charlotte, the largest city in North Carolina, is a Democratic stronghold in a state that Trump won during last year's presidential election. In Mecklenburg County, Democratic nominee Kamala Harris received 66% of the vote while Trump won the state by four percentage points.

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem held a press conference in Bradenton Monday, Oct. 20, 2025, to highlight the department efforts in the first nine months of the Trump Administration.

Lyles, in a Nov. 13 X post, said local officials didn't know what immigration authorities were planning to do in Charlotte, but she asked residents to remain calm.

"I understand this news will create uncertainty and anxiety for many people in our community," Lyles said on X. "Everyone in our community deserves to feel secure and I am committed to doing all that I can to inform our community, help make sure everyone feels safe, and understands their rights."

According to the Charlotte Observer, "masked federal agents" made their presence known Saturday, Nov. 15, including at a church in east Charlotte.

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Right now, everybody is scared. Everybody, the church's pastor, who did not want to identify himself to the outlet, said. One of these guys with immigration, he say he was going to arrest one of the other guys in the church. He pushed him.

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles speaks during an interfaith vigil at Little Rock AME Zion Church in Charlotte, April 30, 2024.

Which other cities have federal agents been deployed to?

While McLaughlin did not elaborate further on DHS's operation, the "surge" into Charlotte comes after federal agents have been deployed to Los Angeles, Washington, DC, Memphis, Chicago and Portland. The deployments of federal agents and National Guard troops have been challenged in court and have drawn criticism over officers' use of force and what's been seen as increasingly aggressive tactics by the Trump administration.

Late last month, Trump threatened to send more than the National Guard to "troubled" U.S. cities. At the time, he didn't identify which cities he intended to send troops to.

Were sending in our National Guard and if we need more than the National Guard, well send more than the National Guard because were going to have safe cities, Trump said Oct. 28 at a U.S. naval base in Yokosuka, Japan, during his weeklong Asia trip. Were not going to have people killed in our cities. Whether people like that or not, thats what were doing."

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While Lyles and other city officials are in opposition to the DHS's operation, Congressman Tim Moore, a Republican who represents a district outside Charlotte, said he has "full confidence in our federal law enforcement partners and appreciates their ongoing work to uphold the rule of law and protect the people of North Carolina."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: DHS says immigration agents 'surging' to Charlotte this weekend
Satellite imagery shows at least nine US military vessels have been operating in the Caribbean over the last two weeks, as tensions between the US and Venezuela escalate.

It follows a series of US air strikes against alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific in recent months, which the Trump administration says are necessary to stem the flow of drugs.

The build-up involves thousands of troops and the world's largest warship being positioned within striking distance of Venezuela, and has sparked speculation about the potential for some kind of military action.

Where are US warships?

The build-up in the Caribbean began in August with the deployment of air and naval forces, including a nuclear-powered submarine and spy planes, according to US officials.

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It now includes a range of aircraft carriers, guided-missile destroyers, and amphibious assault ships capable of landing thousands of troops.

Analysis of satellite images and ship tracking websites has made it possible to identify at least nine military vessels in the region over recent weeks.

[BBC]

The largest is the USS Gerald R Ford, an aircraft carrier seen near a port in the US Virgin Islands on 4 December, about 600 miles (950km) from the Venezuelan coast.

It was previously spotted closer to Venezuela in mid-November, about 125 miles (200km) south of Puerto Rico, a US territory in the Caribbean, before heading towards the Dominican Republic.

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The ship, which travels in a strike group with other supporting vessels, is more than 330 metres (1,100 feet) long.

[BBC]

BBC Verify has also identified eight more US vessels in the Caribbean.

This includes the MV Ocean Trader, a special operations command vessel, spotted on satellite imagery on 25 November between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, and a USS Antonio class vessel.

The closest vessel to Venezuela we located was a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser seen on 4 December, about 15 miles (25km) north of the country's coast.

[BBC]

What about planes?

The US has also deployed F-35 fighter jets to its bases in the Caribbean, and has flown bombers and spy planes over the region.

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BBC Verify used flight tracking data to identify four US military aircraft flying near Venezuela on 20 and 21 November.

A US B-52 long-range bomber briefly appeared on flight tracking website Flightradar24 off Guyana - Venezuela's eastern neighbour - at around 23:45 GMT (19:45 local time) on 20 November.

The data shows the bomber - call sign TIMEX11 - departed from the US state of North Dakota that afternoon and landed back there the following morning.

A US Air Force surveillance aircraft - call sign ALBUS39 - appeared on flight-tracking data just after 22:00 GMT (18:00 local time) on 20 November, flying for about two hours near the eastern coast of Venezuela.

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Around a similar time a US Navy Super Hornet fighter jet - call sign FELIX11 - was seen circling off the western coast.

And a US Air Force refuelling tanker - call sign PYRO33 - was also over the southern Caribbean around 01:30 GMT (21:30 local time) on 21 November. It then stopped broadcasting its location until it was later seen heading north-west.

[BBC]

In October, three B-52 bombers took off from an airbase in Louisiana and circled off the coast of Venezuela before returning, according to flight tracking data from FlightRadar24.

And last month tracking data shows several P-8 Poseidon reconnaissance aircrafts flew south over the Caribbean from a US naval base in Florida.

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Experts say these flights suggest the US is trying to gather military intelligence from the region.

"We see activity by P-8As around the world anywhere the US Navy has an interest in boosting its marine domain awareness," says Henry Ziemer, an Americas specialist at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).

US President Donald Trump has also acknowledged that he authorised the CIA to conduct covert action in Venezuela, although the scope of what that might mean remains highly classified.

Is the US preparing to attack Venezuela?

The build-up has prompted concerns that the US is preparing to directly target Venezuela, or potentially try to topple the socialist government of President Nicolas Maduro.

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"The level of forces, and the fact that they are plainly not tailored for the purpose of pure drug interdiction has raised suspicions the US may be heading towards war with Venezuela," says Mr Ziemer.

"The escalation risks are significant, but I think that within the Trump Administration there is still considerable debate over what will come next," he adds.

Asked if the US was going to war against Venezuela, Trump told CBS' 60 Minutes on 3 November: "I doubt it But they've been treating us very badly."

However, on 29 November, President Trump said that the airspace above and around Venezuela should be considered "closed in its entirety".

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The Venezuelan government has accused the US of stoking tensions in the region, with the aim of toppling the government.

In response in November they declared a "massive mobilisation" of troops, which saw 200,000 personnel sent across the country.

"Overall, I believe the pace of strikes against targets at sea will increase in the near future, while the United States tries to make up its mind about whether it can strike inside Venezuela," says Mr Ziemer.

How many air strikes on boats have there been so far?

Since early September, US forces have carried out at least 22 separate strikes in international waters both in the Caribbean and in the eastern Pacific. US officials reported four people were killed in the latest strike on 4 December.

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In total at least 87 people have been killed, according to statements from US officials.

While US forces have not released the identities of the people killed, officials have alleged they were all "narco-terrorists".

An investigation from the Associated Press reported that several Venezuelan nationals killed in the strikes were low-level traffickers driven by poverty to a life of crime, as well as at least one local crime boss.

[BBC]

Why is the US conducting strikes?

Trump and members of his administration have justified the strikes as a necessary to stem the flow of narcotics from Latin America to the US.

In a statement, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said that the campaign - which has been officially named Operation Southern Spear - is aimed at removing "narco-terrorists from our hemisphere" and securing the US from "the drugs that are killing our people".

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In some cases, US officials have claimed that the targets were tied to Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan gang designated as a foreign terrorist organisation by the Trump administration at the start of the year.

But little information about the targets or what drug trafficking organisations they allegedly belonged to has been officially released by the Pentagon.

The Trump administration has insisted that the strikes are legal, justifying them as a necessary self-defence measure aimed at saving American lives.

But some legal experts have said the strikes could be illegal and violate international law by targeting civilians, with no due process afforded to the suspects.

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US officials have faced particular scrutiny over a follow-up strike - or "double-tap" - on 2 September.

Additional reporting by Kumar Malhotra, Tom Edgington and Bernd Debusmann Jr. Graphics by Leo Scutt-Richter.
(This story was updated to accurately reflect Reardon's knowledge of Bumble's Backyard rules at the time Bree died.)

The death of a dog that ran out of the gate of a private dog park in Columbus has sparked debate about who is to blame: The owner or the park.

On Oct. 29, Bree, an Irish setter, ran through a gate at Bumble's Backyard, a private dog park and bar in south Franklinton at 1280 Brown Road, and was fatally struck by a vehicle shortly after.

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Owner Kelly Reardon, who owned Bree for six years, said she took to social media to share details about the incident out of concern that Bumble's had not shared what happened to other members or the public for more than a week after Bree died. Reardon also said another dog had escaped days before Bree's death, which raised more alarm that the issue was known but unaddressed.

"I did not want yet another dog to be in an unsafe situation," Reardon said.

Bree, an Irish setter is pictured at a Puppy Palooza event at Clippers stadium. Bree was fatally struck by a vehicle on Oct. 29 after escaping the Bumble's Backyard private dog park.

Bumble's Backyard released a statement on Nov. 11 regarding Bree's death, noting recent inspections confirmed the gates were in proper condition and that new safety measures are being implemented.

The post drew hundreds of reactions, with commenters both offering condolences and questioning the park's accountability.

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Bumble's owners, Lauryn and Evan Betterton, also confirmed that earlier in the week, before Bree's death, a dog escaped because guests did not follow proper double-gate protocol. The owner safely recovered their dog.

While some dog owners online argued that such incidents are unpredictable and owners remain responsible for their pets, others said Bumble's Backyard should acknowledge potential flaws in its gate system or reinforce safety protocols.

Reardon said she believes the tragedy was preventable and unexpected at the private facility she considered higher quality.

"I brought her there because I love her and thought it was safer," Reardon said. "The fact that no one was made aware immediately after is deeply concerning."

Kelly Reardon lost her dog, Bree, an Irish setter on Oct. 29 after she escaped through a gate at Bumble's Backyard and was hit by a vehicle.

The Bumble's team, who assisted Reardon in the search after Bree escaped and remained in communication with Reardon following the incident, said they were devastated and shared information about the steps taken to strengthen safety. Reardon said the owners told her over email that they refrained from posting publicly to protect her privacy.

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The owners also said there is no telling what happened in the moment Bree escaped. However, "the most likely explanation is that the gate was not fully latched when it was last used."

The facility has since added new reminders and monitoring to further reduce the chance of accidents, according to the owners.

How safe are dog parks for dogs?

At public dog parks, the expectation for safety may not be as high as in a private facility. According to a Sniffspot survey, the Midwest ranked No. 1 for best public dog parks, but one in five respondents said they still felt dog owners were irresponsible, and 12% felt public off-leash parks were unsafe.

The Columbus area has a small handful of private off-leash dog parks, including Bumble's and The Wag.

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These facilities are generally at your own risk, said Jeremy Grant, assistant chief of the Licking County Dog Shelter & Adoption Center. While theres no comprehensive data tracking how often dogs escape fenced areas, Grant said its a common occurrence across parks and backyards.

"It ranges and depends on different scenarios. Its hard to put a number to this particular situation, but its one of those things where its an ongoing issue," Grant said.

On the county level, Grant said the shelter typically sees "about a dozen" dogs hit by vehicles each year. In 2025, that number has already climbed to 20.

He said incidents involving dog escapes can be unpredictable.

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"You never know when it could happen," Grant said. "Its important to check everything."

What are the safety measures at Bumble's Backyard?

Bumble's has a double-gate vestibule made of a heavy wooden gate and self-closing gates. But if gates are not fully latched - or if guests exit and enter at the same time - dogs may still slip through.

Reardon said she followed all posted rules by leashing Bree inside a double-gated vestibule before exiting, but claimed "the exterior gate was not secured."

Bumble's said its rules were updated as membership grew and now direct guests to leash dogs before exiting the park.

Reardon said the updated rules are different from the rules she followed when Bree died.

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"Our team has also been active in advocating for safer road conditions surrounding the park, meeting with local engineers and community officials to address speeding, lighting, and crosswalk safety in the area," the owners said.

New reinforcements include adding new signage reminding guests when to leash and unleash their dogs, updating staff communication protocols for monitoring gate use, a new magnetic latch system - designed for commercial pools and fitness centers - that provides both an audible alert and a flashing visual signal if a gate remains open for more than 15 seconds and consulting with a fencing company on the feasibility of adding a third gate for additional separation.

About Bumble's Backyard

Bumble's Backyard opened in 2024 as Columbus' first dog park and bar, offering day passes along with monthly and annual memberships.

According to its website, dogs must be neutered and up to date on vaccinations. The park's entry and exit rules are:

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"When entering the park, unleash your dog in the vestibule between the double gates. When exiting the park, leash your dog at the leash wall in front of the interior gate prior to opening the gate."

A second dog park bar called The Wag will open at 1330 Norton Ave., on Nov. 15.

Trending reporter Amani Bayo can be reached at abayo@dispatch.com.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Dog death escaping Bumble's Backyard dog park in Columbus sparks debate
Heres what youll learn when you read this story:

When humans pump groundwater, it has a substantial impact on the tilt of Earths rotation.

Additionally, a study documents just how much of an influence groundwater pumping has on climate change.

Understanding this relatively recent data may provide a better understanding of how to help stave off sea-level rise.

Water has power. So much power, in fact, that pumping Earths groundwater can change the planets tilt and rotation. It can also impact sea-level rise and other consequences of climate change.

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Pumping groundwater appears to have a greater consequence than ever previously thought. But nowthanks to a study published in the journal Geophysical Research Letterswe can see that, in less than two decades, Earth has tilted 31.5 inches as a result of pumping groundwater. This equates to.24 inches of sea level rise.

Earths rotational pole actually changes a lot, Ki-Weon Seo, a geophysicist at Seoul National University and study lead, says in a statement. Our study shows that among climate-related causes, the redistribution of groundwater actually has the largest impact on the drift of the rotational pole.

With the Earth moving on a rotational pole, the distribution of water on the planet impacts distribution of mass. Like adding a tiny bit of weight to a spinning top, authors say, the Earth spins a little differently as water is moved around.

NASA research published in 2016 alerted us to the fact that the distribution of water can change the Earths rotation. This study in Geophysical Research Letters attempts to add some hard figures to that realization. Im very glad to find the unexplained cause of the rotation pole drift, Seo says. On the other hand, as a resident of Earth and a father, Im concerned and surprised to see that pumping groundwater is another source of sea-level rise.

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The study included data from 1993 through 2010, and showed that the pumping of as much as 2,150 gigatons of groundwater has caused a change in the Earths tilt of roughly 31.5 inches. The pumping is largely for irrigation and human use, with the groundwater eventually relocating to the oceans.

In the study, researchers modeled observed changes in the drift of Earths rotational pole and the movement of water. Across varying scenarios, the only model that matched the drift was one that included 2,150 gigatons of groundwater distribution.

Surendra Adhikari, a research scientist at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory who was involved in the 2016 study, says the additional research is important. Theyve quantified the role of groundwater pumping on polar motion, he says in a news release, and its pretty significant.

Where the water moves fromand tomatters. Redistributing water from the midlatitudes makes the biggest difference, so our intense water movement from both western North America and northwestern India have played a key role in the tilt changes.

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Now that the impact of water movement is known for such a shortand relatively recenttime, digging through historical data may help show trends and provide greater depth to the understanding of groundwater movement effects.

Observing changes in Earths rotational pole is useful, Seo says, for understanding continent-scale water storage variations.

This data may also help conservationists understand how to work toward staving off continued sea level rise and other climate issues. Hopefully, changes can be properly implemented over time.

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The premier of the eastern German state of Saxony is calling for energy to be sourced from Russia again after the end of the war in Ukraine.

"It must be in our interest to resume energy supplies from Russia after a ceasefire," Michael Kretschmer told the Funke media group on Saturday.

"Russia must be a trading partner again in the future - without us becoming dependent on it again." Good economic relations also increase Germany's security, he said.

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Kretschmer, who is from Chancellor Friedrich Merz's conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has repeatedly spoken out in favour of resuming Russian gas supplies when the war eventually ends. He has been criticized for this even from within the ranks of his own party.

The European Union has imposed wide-ranging sanctions on Moscow over the war in Ukraine, now into its fourth winter.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has characterized the measures as economic warfare. He has repeatedly pointed out that Europe in particular is suffering as a result.

Kretschmer said Germany "must also consider the sanctions against Russia from our own economic perspective." German energy policy is leading to deindustrialization, he argued.

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Asked whether he felt threatened by Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kretschmer replied that "Russia has attacked another country. Therefore, we must position ourselves to defend ourselves."

This can only be achieved if Germany is economically strong, he said.
UPDATE @ 9:35 a.m.:

The Endangered Missing Adult Alert issued for a Greenville man has been cancelled.

Police confirmed John Neaves has been found safe.

INITIAL REPORT:

Have you seen this missing 66-year-old man?

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Greenville Police are searching for John Neaves.

He walked away from his home on Summer Drive around 1 a.m. on Saturday and did not return, according to the Ohio Attorney Generals Office.

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Neaves suffers from memory issues. Police are concerned about this safety.

He was last seen wearing a grey hoodie, grey pants, a Red Sox hat, and carrying a blanket.

Contact Greenville Police at (937) 548-1103 or 911 if you recognize John Neaves.

We will continue to follow this story.

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Cultural & Historical Significance

Isaakios represents the Hellenized form of the Hebrew name Isaac, carrying profound significance across Abrahamic traditions. In the Hebrew Bible, Isaac was the son promised to Abraham and Sarah in their old age, with his name meaning 'he will laugh' reflecting Sarah's laughter of disbelief and later joy. The name became central to Jewish identity as the second patriarch and father of Jacob/Israel.



In Christian tradition, particularly within the Byzantine Empire, Isaakios became a prominent name among emperors, saints, and theologians. The Greek form maintained the original meaning while adapting to Hellenistic culture, appearing frequently in historical records of the Eastern Roman Empire. Several Byzantine emperors bore this name, linking it to imperial power and Orthodox Christian leadership. The name also appears in early Christian monastic traditions, particularly among desert fathers and influential theologians of the Eastern Church.



The name's journey from Hebrew through Greek to various European languages demonstrates the cultural exchange between Semitic and Indo-European civilizations. It served as a bridge between Jewish and Christian traditions while maintaining its core meaning and symbolic weight across millennia of religious and cultural evolution.
As President Donald Trump and Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greenes feud over Jeffrey Epstein boils over, survivors of the late sex criminal have reportedly issued a collective statement of support for the Georgia Republican.

The bizarre development comes amid a deepening internal rift in the MAGA movement.

The letter, as reported Saturday by MeidasTouch News, thanked Greene for standing up against the intimidation, silencing, and abuse that Epstein survivors have endured for decades.

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When you speak the truth and refuse to bow to threats, you become a survivor by proxyan ally who carries part of the fight with us, the message continued. That courage matters. You have our full support. We stand united with you against any attempt to bully, rewrite history, or shut down accountability.

The 27 reported signatories, who faced or were otherwise impacted by Epsteins abusesuch as Maria and Annie Farmer, Courtney Wild, and the family of Virginia Roberts Giuffrepromised to defend Greene with everything we have and offered to help and to talk.

Greene, a far-right politician, former Trump disciple, and frequent purveyor of bigotry and conspiracy theories, has drawn the presidents ire in recent days for her efforts to compel government transparency on the Epstein case.

She was among four House Republicans to back a successful bid to force a (now forthcoming) floor vote on the release of the Justice Departments Epstein-related documents.

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The president, in turn, has publicly withdrawn his support of Greene, dubbing her a RINOor Republican in name onlyas well as nicknames like Marjorie Traitor Greene and Marjorie Taylor Brown (because, he explained, Green grass turns Brown when it begins to ROT!).

Greene on Saturday said Trumps abuse has fueled and egged on threats against her.
Former President Bill Clinton has long been one of the high-profile names fueling curiosity about Jeffrey Epstein's criminal case files.

"The American people want to know what went on at Epstein island ... we know that Bill Clinton went there many times," House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Kentucky, told Newsmax in August. Epstein owned a small private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where sex trafficking of young girls allegedly occurred. "We just want to ask him what he saw when he was there and who all was involved."

President Donald Trump also implied that Clinton went to the island in a Nov. 14 Truth Social post, saying Larry Summers, Reid Hoffman, J.P. Morgan, Chase and Clinton, "spent large portions of their life with Epstein, and on his 'Island.'" He also said he would ask the Department of Justice to investigate the Democrats linked to the late financier and sex offender.

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But Epstein said in an email, part of thousands of documents released by the Committee on Nov. 12, that Clinton never went to the island.

"Clinton was NEVER EVER there, never," Epstein wrote.

Here is what to know:

More: Did the White House say, 'Epstein was talking about a different Donald Trump?' No.

The "Best Friends Forever" statue featuring President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein is on display in front of Busboys and Poets cafe 14th & V in Washington, D.C.. It was previously put up, then taken down, then put up again on the National Mall. Damage to statue of Donald Trump of Jeffrey Epsten holding hands after being removed from the National Park Service ahead of the end of its permit. The statue was a tongue-in-cheek reference to Trump's once close friendship with the late sex offender. Damage to statue of Donald Trump of Jeffrey Epsten holding hands after being removed from the National Park Service ahead of the end of its permit. The statue was a tongue-in-cheek reference to Trump's once close friendship with the late sex offender. Damage to statue of Donald Trump of Jeffrey Epsten holding hands after being removed from the National Park Service ahead of the end of its permit. The statue was a tongue-in-cheek reference to Trump's once close friendship with the late sex offender. A statue depicting President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." A statue depicting President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." A statue of President Donald Trump and the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was unveiled Sept. 23, 2025 on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." It's the Secret Handshake Project's third such anti-Trump installation since June 2025. A statue of President Donald Trump and the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was unveiled Sept. 23, 2025, on the National Mall in Washington, DC. It's the Secret Handshake's third such anti-Trump installation since June. A statue depicting President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." A statue depicting President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." A statue depicting U.S. President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." A statue depicting U.S. President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." A statue depicting U.S. President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on September 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." A statue depicting President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." Trump, Epstein hold hands in sculpture on National Mall 'In Honor of Friendship Month' 1 of 14 The "Best Friends Forever" statue featuring President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein is on display in front of Busboys and Poets cafe 14th & V in Washington, D.C.. It was previously put up, then taken down, then put up again on the National Mall.

Clinton has flown on Epstein's plane

In 2019, the year Epstein was indicted in New York on sex trafficking charges, Clinton confirmed he flew on Epstein's plane on multiple occasions in the early 2000s, but has denied going to the island Epstein owned.

The late Epstein accuser Virginia Giuffre has said she saw Clinton there, but never saw him doing anything illegal.

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In a January 2015 email to author Michael Wolff where Epstein denies Clinton visited the island, he says someone else, whose name is redacted, had falsely claimed to see Clinton at the island.

"[Redacted] the storyteller, crafted much of it out of whole cloth," he wrote, and argued it undercut other allegations.

These emails prove Bill Clinton did nothing and knew nothing," Clinton spokesperson Angel Urena told USA TODAY in a statement. "The rest is noise meant to distract from election losses, backfiring shutdowns, and who knows what else.

Where is Epstein's island? What happened there?

The island Epstein owned was in the U.S Virgin Islands.

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Epstein also owned property in New York and Palm Beach, Florida, where federal U.S. prosecutors alleged sex trafficking occurred.

In January 2020, prosecutors with the U.S. Virgin Islands filed a lawsuit against Epstein's estate, alleging a criminal enterprise took place on his property there involving the sexual abuse of young girls.

"Epstein owned and arranged for private planes, helicopters, boat and automobiles to transport victims to, from and within the Virgin Islands, and provided money to pay these young women and underage girls," the lawsuit stated.

Numerous girls forced into his scheme were 12 to 17 years old, the lawsuit alleged, stating local authorities last observed related events happening in 2018.

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A web of companies owned by Epstein, dubbed the "Epstein Enterprise" by prosecutors, "deceptively lured underage girls and women into its sex trafficking ring with money and promises of employment, career opportunities and school assistance."

One 15-year-old girl tried to escape by swimming, the lawsuit states.

The estate settled the case with the U.S. Virgin Islands for $105 million in December 2022.

Did Trump ever go to Epstein's island?

Trump previously denied ever visiting late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's private island in one of his "very good moments."

Trump was in Scotland answering questions from reporters on July 28 as the controversy continued to plague his administration for weeks.

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I never had the privilege of going to his island, and I did turn it down, but a lot of people in Palm Beach were invited to his island," Trump said. In one of my very good moments, I turned it down. I didn't want to go to his island.

What do the Epstein emails say about Trump?

The House Oversight Committee released thousands of pages of documents from the Epstein estate on Nov. 12. The House Democrats started the day pointing to emails from Epstein where he alleges Trump "knew about the girls," and another saying Trump spent hours with one of the victims.

The release came as Congress reconvened to reopen the government, and a bipartisan effort to force a vote on releasing the Epstein files gained enough signatures.

"These emails prove absolutely nothing other than that President Trump did nothing wrong, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said at a Nov. 12 press briefing. Trump also took to Truth Social to call the controversy, as he has before, a hoax.

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The Democrats are trying to bring up the Jeffrey Epstein Hoax again because theyll do anything at all to deflect on how badly theyve done on the Shutdown, and so many other subjects, Trump said. Only a very bad, or stupid, Republican would fall into that trap.

(Michael Wolff was a freelance USA TODAY contributor from 2012 to early 2017. USA TODAY had no knowledge of any relationship between him and Jeffrey Epstein, nor any actions beyond his submissions for publication. We are committed to integrity and transparency, as we uphold our editorial standards and maintain the trust of our readers.)

(This story has been updated with additional information.)

Contributing: Holly Baltz, Francesca Chambers, USA TODAY Network

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Kinsey Crowley is the Trump Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at KCrowley@usatodayco.com. Follow her on X (Twitter), Bluesky and TikTok.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump says Bill Clinton was at Epstein's island. Emails say otherwise.
The European Union plans to spend more money on defence and border security next year  even though the overall budget will be slightly smaller.

Negotiators from the European Parliament and the member states both say they have agreed that a total of around 190 billion ($220 billion) can be allocated in the 2026 budget.

The EU member states say planned spending on security and defence will increase by just under 200 million to 2.8 billion. Around 230 million more  and thus a total of slightly more than 5 billion  is earmarked for migration and border management.

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The agreement still has to be officially confirmed by the EU member states and the European Parliament, but this is considered a formality.

The decision is based on a proposal by the European Commission, which presented a budget of 193.26 billion for the coming year at the beginning of June. According to the Brussels authorities, the money is also to be used to support Ukraine and improve Europe's competitiveness.

Last year, the countries and the parliament agreed on a slightly larger total budget of just under 200 billion for 2025. The member states had argued that next year's budget should be 186.24 billion.

As usual, the EU Parliament wanted more and entered the negotiations with a demand for 193.9 billion.

The plan for 2026 is the sixth under the so-called multiannual financial framework (MFF) for the period 2021 to 2027. The bloc's total budget amounts to around 1.1 trillion.

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A new multiannual budget for 2028 to 2034 is currently being debated in Brussels. The European Commission wants it to amount to around 2 trillion, which is about 700 billion more than is estimated for the current budget period.

Germany has already given the commission a clear rejection of this proposal. There is also considerable resistance to the commission's plans in the European Parliament.
A former Tacoma lawyer was sentenced in federal court Friday to 18 months in prison for stealing more than a half-million dollars from a disabled clients trust account while blaming her for spending too much money, the U.S. Attorneys Office said.

Colby Parks, 66, embezzled more than $530,000 from an elderly woman who had received about $1.66 million due to serious permanent injuries she suffered as a passenger in a motorcycle accident, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office in the Western District of Washington.

Parks, who became the trustee for the womans account in 2010, siphoned funds for his own use that were intended to pay the womans expenses, the office said in a news release.

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At some point your ethical barometer had to go off over the ten years that you were stealing from a disabled elderly person, U.S. District Judge Richard A. Jones said during Fridays sentencing, according to the news release. You transitioned from need to greed and that transpired into entitlement.

In a statement, U.S. Attorney Neil Floyd said that Parks betrayed his clients trust and repeatedly lied to her about it and to those who investigated his financial abuse.

Only after Mr. Parks was indicted and pled guilty did he settle the civil suit and agree to pay restitution to the victim, Floyd said.

A grand jury indicted Parks on Oct. 2, 2024, on a dozen counts of wire fraud, The News Tribune previously reported.

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He pleaded guilty to one count as part of a plea deal in May and repaid $530,000 to the victim in two installments this past summer, according to a sentencing memorandum filed on his behalf earlier this month.

Colby recognizes that his actions severely impacted his former client. In addition, his actions ruined his professional life as an attorney, destroyed his good-name, and worst of all, adversely impacted his wife and three daughters, the memo said. Even before the Courts sentencing, Colby has paid a heavy price for his crime. Although he cannot undo the past, Colby has done everything in his power to make amends for his actions.

The memo also said that Parks has struggled with mental health problems for years and noted that 70 letters of support were submitted to the court on his behalf prior to sentencing.

Parks resigned his law license instead of facing discipline from the Washington State Bar, which could have disbarred him, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office.

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In all, Parks made more than 600 transfers of the victims funds to accounts that he controlled, totaling more than $880,000  far more than twice as much as he had been entitled to receive in fees for trustee services, according to the office.

By the end of 2019, the victims accounts held only $15, the office said in the news release. She was forced to sell her home. And even then, Parks diverted proceeds from the sale by claiming the victim owed him money he had advanced to her.

The year prior, Parks had the woman take out a reverse mortgage on her home and used those proceeds to fund the trust account when it had dwindled to just $20,000, the U.S. Attorneys Office said.

For ten years I asked for printed statements. I never reviewed one invoice, the victim said in court Friday, according to the news release. You were the person I trusted with my funds for ten years. You have devastated my life.

The U.S. Attorneys Office said it had asked for a 33-month prison sentence.
(AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Jenna Ellis, a former senior legal advisor for President Donald Trump, blasted her ex-boss for a post where he mocked Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) for getting remarried too quickly after his wife of 31 years passed away.

On Truth Social on Friday night, Trump continued blasting Massie, calling him Rand Paul Jr., and informed his new wife she will soon discover shes stuck with a LOSER.

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Did Thomas Massie, sometimes referred to as Rand Paul Jr., because of the fact that he always votes against the Republican Party, get married already??? Boy, that was quick! No wonder the Polls have him at less than an 8% chance of winning the Election. Anyway, have a great life Thomas and (?). His wife will soon find out that shes stuck with a LOSER! the president posted.

Massie was married to his first wife Rhonda Howard Massie for 31 years until her death in 2024.

Yesterday my high school sweetheart, the love of my life for over 35 years, the loving mother of our 4 children, the smartest kindest woman I ever, my beautiful and wise queen forever, Rhonda went to Heaven, Massie announced at the time.

The congressman recently announced he remarried Carolyn Grace Moffa, approximately a year and a half after his first wifes passing.

Carolyn and I would like to announce our recent marriage! We were legally married in Kentucky on October 19th by the pastor of the church we have been attending for several months. This weekend we celebrated with close friends and family at a Christian wedding ceremony in pic.twitter.com/7fmikl7li3  Thomas Massie for Congress (@MassieforKY) November 3, 2025

Massie has faced plenty of attacks from Trump, especially as hes one of the lawmakers pushing legislation to release more files related to the case of late child sex predator Jeffrey Epstein. The latest post from Trump, however, is by far the most personal attack the president has thrown at the Kentucky Republican.

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Ellis, a personal friend of Massie, took to X on Saturday to blast the attacks from the president, who has been married three times.

Ellis posted:

Thomas Massies beloved wife Rhonda passed away unexpectedly in June 2024. They were married 31 years. I know personally from my friendship of more a decade with Massie how incredibly difficult it was to find himself suddenly a widower and losing his best friend. I have prayed for him every day. I was absolutely delighted he married a year and a half later and wish only the best for him and his beautiful bride Carolyn. To have the kind of deep faith in the Lord, resilience, and courage to find love and joy again in a new season of his life should be met only with deep admiration and encouragement. The Lord brought him out of his suffering and into a new day. Some things are still sacred and should still be beyond this kind of political mud-slinging.

Thomas Massies beloved wife Rhonda passed away unexpectedly in June 2024. They were married 31 years. I know personally from my friendship of more a decade with Massie how incredibly difficult it was to find himself suddenly a widower and losing his best friend. I have prayed https://t.co/8WxdqB7RCp  Jenna Ellis  (@realJennaEllis) November 15, 2025

Ellis was a senior legal advisor to Trumps 2020 campaign and she went on to become part of the legal team trying to overturn the official 2020 presidential election results by claiming fraudulence. Trump still claims the election was rigged, though there is no proof of the type of widespread fraud he refers to. Elliss Trump journey ended with her agreeing to a three-year suspension of her Colorado law license after she agreed to a plea deal in Georgia when she was indicted for attempts to overturn election results.

The post Ex-Trump Lawyer Slams Trump Attacking Massie For Getting Married After His Wife Died: Some Things Are Still Sacred first appeared on Mediaite.
Former Homeland Security official Miles Taylor on Friday confronted pro-MAGA pundit Scott Jennings on CNNs NewsNight for changing his tune on President Donald Trump, noting that Jennings used to openly condemn Trump, calling him an authoritarian years ago.

The NewsNight panel was discussing recent fractures among Republicans over Trumps battle against transparency regarding the Jeffrey Epstein case. Jennings said he traces the anger back to Trumps righteous decision to bomb Iran earlier this year.

Politics: Michelle Obama Shuts Down Presidential Talk With Damning Reality Check For America

I trace it back further than that, Scott, countered Taylor. I trace it back to 10 years ago, when you said Donald Trump was an authoritarian. And you know what, Scott? Ive got to hand it to you, that was a remarkable forecast. Because 10 years later, I think you called it.

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Heres Donald Trump today, the man with the heart and soul of a fascist, showing us he now has the bona fides by tonight ordering investigations into American citizens, Taylor continued. Thats why members of his administration  have turned against him.

Jennings described Trump as an authoritarian in a 2016 opinion column in the Louisville Courier-Journal. He also said live on CNN after the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riots that Trump clearly violated his oath of office to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution.

Jennings added that the riots were an insurrection that should be labeled as such.

Politics: This Is The End: Top Manosphere Podcaster Delivers Brutal Assessment Of Trump

He tried to counter Taylor, who was a former chief of staff to Trumps ex-DHS Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen before writing a highly critical essay in 2018 that led Trump to order an official Department of Justice investigation into Taylors supposed treason.

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Why are you so upset he is running the executive branch? Jennings asked Taylor, who fired back, For the same reasons you predicted he shouldnt, for the same reasons, Scott, you said that he violated his oath and he should never be back in that office.

He reiterated, Thats why Im upset for the man being in the Oval Office.

Jennings said he happily voted for Trump three times while Taylor was trying to subvert the elected president of the United States, which Taylor said he proudly did, and then wished the former official good luck with the DOJ investigation.

Jennings said earlier in the show that the fastest way to get on television as a Republican is to crap on the president.

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Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) and Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), have all had public gripes with Trump. Among them are his big, beautiful bill adding trillions of dollars to the federal budget deficit, killing merely suspected drug smugglers without due process and fighting the release of classified files on Epstein  who once called Trump his closest friend.

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
Does a video show a true story about a veteran who shot three teens who were attempting to rob him and was then charged with murder? No, that's not true: The details of this story do not match a real case. The video uses clips from several unrelated news reports. In 2019, there was a Georgia homeowner who fatally shot three masked teens who had tried to rob him in his front yard, but this person was not charged with murder and was not identified as a veteran in news reports.

The video appeared in a post (archived here) published on Instagram by @mindsetoftherich on Nov. 14, 2025. It was captioned:

Justified or not, what do you think?

This is a screenshot of the video:

Image source: Lead Stories screenshot from instagram.com/reel/DQ-Dl1vDui7.

Text captions on the video read:

Man eliminates 3 kids breaking into his home, and mother claims this was an excessive use of force were his actions justified?

A retired veteran was charged with murder after shooting and killing three intruding teenagers in his home.

The video is made up of a mashup of unrelated clips. It begins with footage of a distraught woman at a microphone, presumably in a courtroom, supported by another woman. The ragebaiting voiceover says:

My son only tried to rob you. You took his life! That was an abuse of force to him and you must pay for this!

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This unexpected take - that the robbers deserve sympathy - is a common feature of ragebait videos, which push a provocative or offensive story line so that social media users will react, re-post and pump up audience engagement, which profits the creator of the fake story, through increased traffic and potential revenue from ads that chase traffic.

The second clip shows security camera footage of three men wearing black hoodies climbing an exterior stairway to a second floor entry. The railing and walls are painted tones of orange and peach. A palm tree is visible. In the upper right corner is some white text that is cut off. A Google reverse image search identifies this footage from Neptune Beach, Florida in many news stories about the unrelated incident. One example (pictured below) is an April 15, 2020 article (archived here) titled, "Video: Neptune Beach resident shoots at 3 armed robbers, police say".

The video footage captures the sound of several gunshots. Only one of the home invaders was hit, and all three were able to flee the scene. Later Leonard Wayne Larramore was admitted to the hospital with a gunshot wound to the chest -- Larramore survived, was charged with armed home invasion robbery, and jailed. A second man turned himself in on April 28, 2020. Lead Stories found no mention in news reporting of the resident's name or any reference to their occupation or military service. No charges were filed against the resident.

Image source: Lead Stories screenshot from news4jax.com/news/local/2020/04/15/video-neptune-beach-resident-shoots-at-3-armed-robbers-police-say.

At 17 seconds into the video there are three mugshots displayed across the bottom of the frame. Searching for those images, Lead Stories found those three men were charged with capital murder in the Jan. 2018 murders of Bao and Jenny Lam of Spring, Texas. An article (archived here) on patch.com includes the mugshots (pictured below) with this photo caption:

Khari Ty Kendrick, age 23, Aakiel Ricardo Kendrick, age 21, and Erick Alfredo Peralta, age 20, were arrested on Wednesday for the murders of Bao and Jenny Lam. All three are being held without bond. (Courtesty: HCSO)

Image source: Lead Stories screenshot from patch.com/texas/houston/suspects-spring-couples-murder-held-without-bond.

At 41 seconds and again at 1 minute, 16 seconds of the video we are fact-checking, a police car is shown blocking off a residential street. This image is from Indianapolis, Indiana (pictured below) and appears in a Dec. 31, 2022 video (archived here) published by wthr.com titled, "IMPD: Man was parked in his grandmother's driveway when he was shot by officers".

Image source: Lead Stories screenshot from wthr.com/video/news/local/impd-man-was-parked-in-his-grandmothers-driveway-when-he-was-shot-by-officers/531-8902f819-30df-44a3-868b-cc860053e90d.

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At 30 seconds in the video clip we are fact checking, a man wearing a red ball cap is shown being interviewed by a news reporter. This man, a neighbor, appears at 56 seconds in a 11Alive report (embedded below) about an incident in Rockdale County, Georgia on Sept. 16, 2019. A homeowner fatally shot three masked teens who tried to rob him outside in his yard. The homeowner is not named in news reports, there is no mention of their military service, and no charges were filed.

Lead Stories encountered another mashup video following a similar storyline (pictured below) with different video clips. It was posted on Facebook by @Cops.Camera.USA on Nov. 10, 2025.
A Fayetteville State University alumnus has been hired as the university's new chief of police.

Damon D. Williams will begin his new duty Dec. 8, serving as chief of police and associate vice chancellor for Police and Public Safety for Fayetteville State University, according to a Nov. 13 news release from the university.

Williams' predecessor, Roberto Bryan Jr., was announced as Fayetteville's 26th police chief on May 30. Bryan had served as the university's chief of police since June 2022.

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The release states that Williams has more than 20 years of leadership experience in both municipal and university law enforcement, and was recognized for his commitment to community policing, modernizing departments and fostering public trust.

Fayetteville State University Chief of Police Damon D. Williams.

Williams, who graduated from Fayetteville State University and received a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, most recently served as chief of police and director of Public Safety at North Carolina Central University, where he managed law enforcement operations, implemented security strategies, and oversaw emergency management initiatives, according to the release.

More: How much do the city of Fayetteville's top earners make in 2025, and what do they do?

Williams also has served as chief of police in Mooresville, Tarboro, Maxton and Taylortown, where his leadership resulted in securing more than $1.1 million in state and federal grants to upgrade equipment, expand staff training, and enhance community programs in those municipalities, the release states.

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The release said Williams currently serves as vice president of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Law Enforcement Executives and Administrators, and he is a former president of the North Carolina Association of Chiefs of Police.

Appointing Chief Williams reflects our deep, ongoing commitment to ensuring campus safety remains the top priority at Fayetteville State University, Chancellor Darrell T. Allison said. Chief Williams proven track record and deep understanding of university policing align with our mission to provide a secure and safe environment where every Bronco can thrive.

Williams' new role will include overseeing campus police and safety operations, coordinating emergency response planning and creating a secure and welcoming environment on campus.

Public safety reporter Joseph Pierre can be reached at jpierre@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Damon Williams, new Fayetteville State University chief of police
The FBI has increased the reward to $20,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspects involved in the 2021 homicide of Amit Patel in Columbus.

Amit Patel was killed on Dec. 6, 2021, outside a bank on Buena Vista Road in Columbus. The incident involved two suspects who used a stolen Toyota Tacoma to flee the scene after the shooting.

On the day of the incident, Patel was visiting the bank to deposit money from his business when he was approached by the suspects. One suspect got out of the vehicle and shot Patel, who died at the scene.

A screenshot from surveillance video shows the stolen Toyota Tacoma as it left the scene of the homicide.

The suspects fled in a stolen Toyota Tacoma with missing license plates, taking all the money Patel had with him.

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The FBI and Columbus Police are actively seeking information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects. They have released surveillance images of the stolen vehicle as it left the scene.

The increased reward highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to solve the case and bring justice for Patel and his family.

If you have any information concerning this case, contact the FBIs Toll-Free tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or the Columbus Police Department Homicide line at (706) 225-3161.

You may also contact your local FBI office, the nearest American Embassy or Consulate, or you can submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

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The Orleans Parish School Board budget meeting on October 28, 2025. (Photo by Christiana Botic/Verite News and Catchlight Local/Report for America)

NEW ORLEANS  A decade of court oversight of special education services in New Orleans public schools, the result of a legal settlement, will most likely cease by the end of the year, the judge presiding over the legal settlement said Wednesday.

The decision, if it comes to pass, would come at the request of the Louisiana Department of Education and the Orleans Parish School Board, which have been subjected to intensive monitoring under a consent decree since 2015. The agreement settled a 2010 class-action lawsuit that alleged the citys charter schools discriminated against special education students in their application processes and did not provide them appropriate educational services, as federal law requires.

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The case was brought by the Southern Poverty Law Center on behalf of parents and guardians of special-needs students in New Orleans schools. Though problems with special education continue to be identified at some New Orleans charter schools, the consent decree was intended to address systemic issues  whether the state and district are catching those issues and implementing plans to correct them  not individual students experiences, said U.S. District Judge Jay Zainey.

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For the past eight years, an independent monitor assigned by the court has found the defendants  the Department of Education and OPSB  in substantial compliance with all provisions outlined in consent decree. Citing those findings, the state and school board earlier this year formally requested an end to the agreement.

The plaintiffs oppose terminating the settlement, arguing that the state and NOLA Public Schools district have not created sufficient monitoring, oversight or complaint systems. Their opposition hinges on a 2024 report from the Louisiana Legislative Auditor that found faults in the states monitoring of special education programs  most districts self-reported their compliance with federal rules dictating education plans, without on-site monitoring. (However, some of those problems resulted from the fact that much of the states monitoring capacity has been directed toward New Orleans schools, possibly as a result of the consent decree, according to the audit report.) The audit also noted that the agency reduced the number of workers dedicated to special education between 2012 and 2019.

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Lauren Winkler, lead attorney for the plaintiffs, said her team has asked the district to make it easier for parents to bring issues about schools forward to the central office through creating an open complaint system on their website. That was never implemented.

[There are] really simple solutions that are not super costly, Winkler said. We tried to meet with them to agree to some and they just wouldnt.

Winkler said noncompliance still exists in the schools. More than people contacted the Southern Poverty Law Center about their negative experiences with New Orleans schools special education programs ahead of this weeks hearing.

If we didnt have any parents coming forward with issues, wed maybe have a different position, Winkler said. With the breadth of issues in the amount of people that came to us, as weve been preparing for this, I think thats indicative of the systemic issues that are still here.

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But in a court filing last week, Zainey wrote that the court anticipates ending federal oversight by the end of the year.

The consent judgement was a temporary measure and was never meant to be a permanent fixture of the school system, Zainey said in court. Things have been much improved from how they used to be in Orleans Parish.

Zainey invited parents to share their experiences with the court and representatives from the Louisiana Department of Education and Orleans Parish School Board during informal hearings on Nov. 12 and 13. Most parents asked the court to continue the federal monitoring of New Orleans schools, but its unclear whether their statements will change Zaineys plans. Zainey encouraged the states ombudsman, who connects families with resources and informs them of their rights in relation to special education, to connect with parents following their statements.

But most of the parents speaking at the informal hearing were those who had already tried, and were still trying, to seek recourse through communication with district or state officials.

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Grace Thompson spoke in front of the judge Wednesday morning about her sons experience at Audubon Gentilly. According to Thompson, her son was supposed to receive speech therapy and a one-on-one aide to help in class, but never received them. Thompson said shes tried to seek help through the districts accountability office, which, she said, has offered little guidance and has been slow and inconsistent in its communications.

Ive literally been calling them for the last year and a half, Thompson told the judge. They know who I am.

Steve Corbett, CEO of Audubon Schools, said Audubon Gentilly has provided students with all necessary services and has been found fully compliant with federal special education law. The most recent state special education monitoring report found no unresolved areas of noncompliance at the school.

Other parents also spoke of slow communication with the district and the schools their children attend. They said their children werent receiving the services outlined in their individualized education plans, that their learning has regressed, that schools were slow in performing evaluations and reevaluations, and that oversight was only afforded to children with parents that could be there to actively fight for them.

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District Superintendent Fateama Fulmore and state representatives were present at the hearing. In response to hearing parent concerns, Fulmore said she appreciated the opportunity to hear from them directly and that her team will follow up.

We have an obligation to every child in this system to get this right, Fulmore said. We are doing better.

Lyric Lee, a former student at Morris Jeff Community School who had an Individualized Education Program and graduated last year, said she learned at a young age how to advocate for herself, her brother and other students who have special needs. She said the consent decree should continue.

Ive learned when people are not kept on a watch, they feel like they dont have to do it, and theyll do everything possible to make sure they dont have to, Lee said.

This article first appeared on Verite News New Orleans and is republished here under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.

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Individuals named Jourdaine are often perceived as deeply spiritual, introspective, and flowing with emotional depth, much like the river their name represents. They tend to possess a calm, steady demeanor that can weather life's challenges while maintaining inner peace and resilience. Jourdaines are typically known for their strong moral compass and commitment to their principles, often serving as pillars in their communities or families.



Their personality often combines French elegance with spiritual depth, creating individuals who are both refined and profoundly connected to matters of faith and meaning. They approach life with a sense of purpose and destiny, viewing their journey as one of continuous growth and spiritual development. While they may appear reserved initially, Jourdaines form deep, lasting relationships built on trust and mutual respect. Their natural empathy and understanding make them excellent counselors and confidants, though they may sometimes struggle with setting boundaries due to their compassionate nature.
A South Carolina killer who taunted police by writing a message in blood after murdering three men in a week has become the third inmate executed by firing squad in the state this year.

Stephen Corey Bryant, who once scrawled "catch me if u can" on a wall using the blood of 62-year-old victim Willard "T.J." Tietjen, was executed on Friday, Nov. 14, for the 2004 murder. He was pronounced dead at 6:05 p.m.

Bryant's executioners strapped him to a chair and placed a hood over his head. Three volunteer corrections officers shot him simultaneously from 15 feet away.

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Bryant's attorneys had argued that he should be spared from execution because he was sexually abused as a child and had brain damage caused by his mother using drugs and alcohol while she was pregnant. The South Carolina Supreme Court rejected those arguments earlier this week and allowed the execution to proceed.

"Mr. Bryant is the seventh man South Carolina has executed in fourteen months," one of his attorneys, Bo King, said in a statement after the execution. "Each was forced to make the barbaric and unconscionable 'choice' between bloody, burning, or protracted deaths. Each execution has been brutal and shameful. None has made South Carolina safer or more just.

USA TODAY reached out to the South Carolina Attorney General's Office for a response late Friday.

Bryant is the 43rd inmate to be executed in the U.S. in 2025, the most executions carried out in a single year since 2012. He's also only one of six men executed by the firing squad in modern U.S. history.

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Here's what you need to know about Bryant's execution.

South Carolina's firing squad chair is pictured behind its electric chair, which is covered, at the Broad River Correctional Institute in Columbia, South Carolina. Death Row inmates can choose among firing squad, electric chair and lethal injection for their executions. If they don't select one, the default is the electric chair.

News media witnesses describe execution

When the curtain was drawn for the three members of the news media acting as witnesses, Bryant was already strapped down to the execution chair, they said in a news conference afterward.

Bryant's feet were shackled to the chair, his arms were strapped behind him and to the chair, and his head also was strapped down, they said. Bryant declined to say any last words, and thats when a hood was placed over his head. Within about a minute, three corrections volunteers shot him, they said.

A post-it-sized bullseye over Bryant's heart flew halfway across the room after the shots were fired and blood pooled across his chest.

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One of the witnesses, Jeffrey Collins with the Associated Press, said that Bryant was breathing shallowly for about 30 seconds after the shots rang out and that roughly 40 seconds after that, he seemed to either spasm or cough once before going completely still.

He said that three of Tietjen's family members witnessed the execution and held hands throughout the process. Their only visible reaction was flinching when the shots were fired, he said.

Bryant's last meal was spicy mixed seafood stir-fry over rice, fried fish over rice, two egg rolls, three stuffed shrimp, two candy bars, German chocolate cake and Pepsi, a corrections spokeswoman said.

What was Stephen Bryant convicted of?

In October 2004, Stephen Bryant was on probation for burglary when he went on an eight-day killing spree that left three men dead and one critically wounded.

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The last man murdered was Willard "T.J." Tietjen, who was shot nine times in his home just east of Columbia after allowing Bryant to come in on Oct. 11, 2004.

That afternoon, Tietjen's wife and daughter kept trying to call him but he wasn't answering. At 5:30 p.m., someone picked up his cellphone but it wasn't Tietjen. It was Bryant.

"T.J. is dead," he told Tietjen's wife of 39 years, Mildred Tietjen, who testified during the sentencing phase of Bryant's trial, according to The Item newspaper of Sumter, South Carolina.

When Tietjen's daughter, Kimberly Dees, called her dad's number, Bryant again picked up and said: "I'm having a wonderful day, how are you?" before he told her he had killed her dad three hours earlier, Dees testified.

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When police arrived to Tietjen's home, they found he had been shot nine times and that the killer used his blood to write a taunting message on the wall: "Victem 4 in 2 weeks. Catch me if u can." Tietjen's eyes had been burned with cigarettes and candles had been lit around his body, court records say.

Bryant also left a handwritten note in a Manila envelope on Tietjen's chest: "I am the light. I am so bright. I am the sun. Yours truly, The Prowler," it said. A note on the table said: "Good luck finding me. LMFAO," The Item reported.

Earlier that week, Bryant had shot three other men, two fatally. They included his friend, 36-year-old Clifton Gainey, and a stranger, 35-year-old Christopher Burgess. A 56-year-old man named Clinton Brown was shot in the back and left for dead but survived.

Bryant pleaded guilty to all his crimes. A judge sentenced him to life in prison for the murders of Gainey and Burgess, and the death penalty for Tietjen's.

Stephen Bryant is pictured.

Who was Willard "T.J." Tietjen?

Tietjen was a devoted dad, grandpa and husband who had retired from the Air Force after being stationed all over the world, from the Philippines and Germany to Thailand and Oregon.

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His daughter testified that her dad took her to plays and concerts, and taught her to fish, hunt, roller skate, appreciate nature, and respect her country, The Item reported in 2008.

"We spent a lot of happy hours together," Dees said, adding that he imparted a very important life lesson to her: "The value of life. All life has value ... We're all part of God's creation."

On the stand, Dees recalled how her 5-year-old son comforted her over the death of the family patriarch they both adored.

"He told me he would always be with me and stay with me so nobody could ever murder me," she said, according to The Item.

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Meanwhile Mildred Tietjen testified that she married her husband just three months after meeting him in December 1964 on a blind date when he was stationed in Iowa, The Item reported.

"He had such a zest for life," she said, before recalling his last words to her: "I love you."

Why was Stephen Bryant executed by firing squad?

South Carolina allowed Bryant to choose among three execution methods: firing squad, electric chair or lethal injection. If he hadn't chosen, the default method is electric chair.

The firing squad has been rarely used in the United States, though it appears to be gaining momentum as states say they're struggling to obtain the drugs needed for lethal injections.

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Before this year, Utah was the only state to use the method, and had only done so three times: in 1977, 1996 and 2010. Utah had planned to use the method on an inmate in August but the Utah Supreme Court stopped it over concerns about his dementia.

South Carolina legalized firing squads in 2021 and began using the method this year, executing two inmates in April and May.

A defense attorney who witnessed the last such execution in April described it as "barbaric" and "a horrifying act that belongs in the darkest chapters of history." State officials defend the method as constitutional.

On top of Utah and South Carolina, Mississippi, Oklahoma and Idaho have legalized firing squads. Idaho, which approved firing squads in 2023, is set to make them the state's default method next year.

When is the next execution?

The next execution in the U.S. is that of Richard Barry Randolph in Florida for the 1988 murder of his neighbor, Minnie Ruth McCollum, who was raped, beaten, and stabbed in East Palatka, about 45 miles east of Gainesville.

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If it moves forward, Randolph's execution will be the 44th in the U.S. this year, a number that hasn't been seen since 2010.

Amanda Lee Myers is a senior crime reporter who covers the death penalty for USA TODAY. Follow her on X at @amandaleeusa

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: South Carolina serial killer 3rd to die by firing squad this year
The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Warning for southwestern Los Angeles County until noon Saturday. Forecasters said Doppler radar showed thunderstorms producing heavy rainfall, with rates between 0.2 and 0.5 inches per 30 minutes.

The heavy rain brings heightened threats of flooding, mudslides and debris flows, particularly to wildfire burn scar areas.

Evacuation warnings are in place for communities near these burn scar areas  Eaton, Palisades, Canyon, Bethany, Hurst, Kenneth, Sunset, Lidia, Franklin and Bridge.

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For some residents near the Palisades burn scar, the warnings were elevated to evacuation orders on Friday night. Those residents are being notified by Los Angeles police officers going door-to-door.

Forecasters said the Southern California region is expected to receive rain through the weekend and possibly into next week with the worst of the storm arriving overnight into Saturday morning.

According to the National Weather Service, a front followed by a strong low-pressure system will continue bringing rain, and possible thunderstorms, throughout the weekend. (National Weather Service) Heavier rain is expected tonight, with 2 to 3 inches likely in southern areas and 3 to 6 inches in favored mountains and hills. (National Weather Service) Forecasters warn of a growing risk for dangerous flooding, debris flows, rockslides, mudslides, major road closures, swiftwater rescues and significant impacts near recent burn scars. (National Weather Service) Treacherous travel, toppled trees in Southern California as storm dumps heavy rain on region. (KNN) LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA  NOVEMBER 15: Motorists drive toward downtown during a powerful atmospheric river storm on November 15, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. The multiple day storm is triggering evacuation and flash flood warnings today in the Eaton and Palisades fire burn scars due to debris flow fears. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images) LOS ANGELES, CA  NOVEMBER 15, 2025  A Metro bus rides along the North Spring Street Bridge as a rain swollen LA River flows in Los Angeles on November 15, 2025. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images) LOS ANGELES, CA  NOVEMBER 15, 2025  A woman walks past a flooded baseball diamond in Downey Recreation Center Park in Los Angeles on November 15, 2025. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images) Altadena , CA  November 14: Silverwood Landscape Construction employee Floriberto Marine places sandbags outside of the Altadena Golf Coarse on Friday, November 14, 2025. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht/MediaNews Group/Los Angeles Daily News via Getty Images) Rain comes down on the Palisades Fire zone on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, in the Pacific Palisades section of Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) A pedestrian with an umbrella walks on a bridge over the rain-soaked 110 Freeway in Los Angeles Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) Cars ride the 110 Freeway toward downtown during heavy rain in Los Angeles, California, on November 15, 2025. A multiple-day powerful atmospheric river storm is triggering evacuation due to possible mudslides to areas burned by wildfires and flash flood warnings in Southern California. (Photo by Apu GOMES / AFP) (Photo by APU GOMES/AFP via Getty Images) A surfer rides a wave as clouds gather above Bolsa Chica State Beach in Orange County, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)

A Flood Watch will be in effect on Saturday, Nov. 15 from 1 a.m. to 10 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.

All areas within the City of Los Angeles are anticipated to experience moderate to heavy rainfall on Saturday, city officials said. Significant impacts within the Flood Watch area could include roadway flooding and closures, power outages, and potentially damaging debris flows in the Palisades, Hurst, and Sunset burn scar areas. All residents are urged to take precautions.

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With dangerous road conditions and possible heavy flooding on the way, residents are urged to take these precautions:

Secure your outdoor space  move furniture, umbrellas, and other lightweight items to indoor or secured areas so they do not fly away.

Gather emergency supplies to shelter-in-place during the storm, including food, water, radios, medication, and pet supplies.

Prepare for power outages with batteries, flashlights, backup cell phone chargers and charging cables.

Prepare medical devices and cell phones for potential power outages by charging them completely and getting backup systems ready

Check in on your neighbors to make sure they know about the storm conditions and are prepared

Sign up to receive text, email, and phone call emergency alerts for your home, work, and school at NotifyLA.org.

During the storm, residents should take the following actions:

Avoid driving if at all possible. Do not attempt to drive through flooded roads

Bring pets inside during the storm to keep them safe from falling debris

Call 911 for life-threatening situations, such as people trapped by flooding or damaged trees and debris flows threatening buildings

If you see flooding, fallen trees or other significant damage that is not immediately life-threatening, report it via 311 or visit lacity.gov/myla311

Do not operate generators indoors or in garages

Assume all downed power lines are electrified and dangerous. Avoid contact and call 911 or report power outages to the Department of Water and Power at 1-800-342-5397

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Residents who need sandbags can find a local distribution site here:

Areas under an Evacuation Warning can be found here. The latest storm updates from L.A. city officials can also be found here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Florida education leaders on Thursday approved a set of principles that would teach a conservative-backed vision of the United States.

The State Board of Education, which also approved social-studies changes intended to highlight ideological evils of communism, signed off on Florida becoming the first state to adopt the Heritage Foundations Phoenix Declaration: An American Vision for Education.

The declaration is a statement of principles described as fostering a love of country, teaching children to seek the good, true and beautiful and aiming for students to achieve their full, God-given potential.

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Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas said the declaration establishes an affiliation with the Heritage Foundation and promotes what the board supports rather than what it opposes.

We often call out what is problematic in education, pushing an ideology over indoctrination, whether thats the instruction of sexual orientation and gender identity in elementary schools or divisive concepts like critical race theory and DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) that treats people differently based on the way God created them, Kamoutsas said. Well, this talks about what we want to see. We want to see parents empowered. We want to see curriculum, transparency, we want to see academic excellence in all of our students.

The Washington, D.C.-based Heritage Foundation has a stated mission of building and promoting conservative public policies. Critics addressing the education board Thursday described the Heritage Foundation declaration as promoting indoctrination.

Marihelen Wheeler, a retired teacher from Alachua County, said the state should increase teacher pay before adding to their work.

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Talk to teachers about what youre discussing now, Wheeler said. I dont know how often you include teachers, but youve got to do it because youre not going to be able to keep Florida teachers with this kind of addition to the teachers load.

Board of Education Chairman Ryan Petty suggested the declaration can unite people and that its important to be for something.

We shouldnt allow ideologies to take over and replace their version of truth with objective truth, Petty added.

The declaration lists a series of principles such as parents being the primary educators of their children and public education money always following the children.

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The principles also call for:

--- Schools to be fully transparent with parents.

--- Schools to prioritize proven teaching methods rooted in foundational subjects over fads or experimental teaching methods.

--- Education to be grounded in objective truth, free from ideological fads, while also being focused on Americas founding principles and roots in the broader Western and Judeo-Christian traditions.

--- Students to be prepared for challenges and responsibilities of adulthood and taught the whole truth about America --- its merits and failings --- without obscuring that America is a great source of good in the world.

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Also Thursday, the board approved new standards tied to a 2024 law (SB 1264) that requires instruction on the history of communism.

Among other things, students will be asked to compare the Communist Manifesto and the Bill of Rights; communist and socialist thought; the effects of anti-communists on American communism between 1917 and 1956; the harm done by communist espionage; and the roles of anti-communist politicians, including the late President Harry Truman, the late President Richard Nixon, the U.S. House Un-American Activities Committee, and the late U.S. Sen. Joseph McCarthy.

While at the Freedom Tower in Miami last Friday to mark Victims of Communism Day, Gov. Ron DeSantis said that while America won the Cold War, the communist ideology hasnt gone away.

It comes back and its repackaged, and they try to do it under various different banners. And so you have to understand whats at stake here, DeSantis said.

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I think its important to talk about it in a very clear-eyed way, the destruction, the lives of 100 million dead at the hands of Marxism, Leninism, DeSantis said. But I think its also important that we just recognize the whole absurdity of it all, of the whole idea of communism and Marxism, Leninism.

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Fly-tippers have dumped a "grotesque" mountain of waste in a field in Oxfordshire.

The "environmental catastrophe unfolding in plain sight" is up to 150m (490ft) long and 6m (20ft) high and has appeared on a site between the River Cherwell and the A34 near Kidlington.

Calum Miller, Liberal Democrat MP for Bicester and Woodstock, has raised the issue in Parliament, saying it was "threatening an environmental disaster".

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He also said Cherwell District Council had estimated the cost of removing the waste would be greater than its entire annual budget.

"This is not a licensed waste site and we can just see the quantity of waste that has been dumped here, that's illegal, so it's criminal," Mr Miller said, calling it "pollution on a grotesque scale".

"That's not something that local residents and taxpayers can afford."

He says "criminal gangs are dumping waste on this scale" across the country and it will take government intervention before pollutants "leech out" into local rivers.

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The Environment Agency said it would try to "ensure those responsible" for the waste cleared it up.

Charity Friends of the Thames said the illegal rubbish dump was created about a month ago by an organised crime group.

Chief executive Laura Reineke said: "This is an environmental catastrophe unfolding in plain sight.

"Every day that passes increases the risk of toxic run-off entering the river system, poisoning wildlife and threatening the health of the entire catchment.

"The Environment Agency must act now, not in months or years, which is their usual reaction time."

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A restriction order had been put in place by the Environment Agency.

It is hard to distinguish any particular bits of waste as it appears to have been shredded with earth mixed in.

Some of the rubbish from the top of the pile has toppled and is now only five metres from the river.

Billy Burnell is a local angler who regularly fishes in the area [BBC]

The River Cherwell is a tributary of the River Thames, which means it flows through Oxford before joining the Thames.

Local angler Billy Burnell regularly fishes in the area and said he noticed the pile in September.

He called it "horrific" and said the potential run-off into the river is an "environmental disaster waiting to happen" and would like to see "instantaneous reactions" from the authorities to incidents like this.

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Miller asked the government for help to remove the illegal tip before it caused a fire or was washed into the river system.

Addressing MPs on Thursday, he said: "Criminals have dumped a mountain of illegal plastic waste... weighing hundreds of tonnes, in my constituency on a floodplain adjacent to the River Cherwell.

"River levels are rising and heat-maps show that the waste is also heating up, raising the risk of fire.

"The Environment Agency said it has limited resources for enforcement, that the estimated cost of removal is greater than the entire annual budget of the local district council."

Calum Miller MP said the cost of removing the waste would be high [BBC]

Environment minister Mary Creagh said the government had inherited a failing waste industry that had caused an "epidemic of illegal fly-tipping".

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She told MPs the Environment Agency had served a restriction order to prevent further access to the site.

In a statement, the body said it was investigating and appealed for information.

"We share the public's anger about incidents like this, which is why we take action against those responsible for waste crime," it said.

"The cornerstone of our investigations is to ensure those responsible for waste clear it.

"The Environment Agency would only step in and clear this or any site if it was abandoned, had no identifiable person, or the waste posed an imminent threat to life  we operate under the Polluter Pays Principle."

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Thames Valley Police has said it was not currently involved in the case and the Environment Agency was leading the investigation.

A recent House of Lords report found efforts to tackle serious waste crime have been "critically under-prioritised" despite the problem becoming bigger and more sophisticated.

The Environment and Climate Change Committee recommended an independent "root and branch" inquiry into how "endemic" waste crime is tackled.

You can follow BBC Oxfordshire on Facebook, X, or Instagram.

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BECKLEY  On Friday, Mountaineer Food Bank held its first ever award ceremony to honor its continuing partnership with state veteran outreach programs.

At Linda K. Epling Stadium, hundreds of veterans waited in their cars as the volunteers from the Beckley Veterans Affairs office and Disabled American Veterans handed out food, hot drinks and holiday spirit. Part of the Veterans Table program  which serves 500 to 600 veterans each month in Raleigh County  Fridays food drive carried added significance. Mountaineer Food Banks CEO visited to present the VA and DAV with a commemorative plaque honoring their support and the work of their volunteers.

The ceremony also marked the annual National Veterans and Military Families Month, which highlights the sacrifices of military families and the impact of programs like Veterans Table across southern West Virginia.

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This has become one of the pillar programs of the food bank because we feel so strongly that our veteran population in West Virginia has done so much for us, Mountaineer Food Bank CEO Chad Morrison said. Anything that we can do to give back to them means so much for our organization and supporters. Mountaineer Food Bank is a statewide distribution and logistical hub for food pantries throughout the state.

Were able to support over 1,400 veterans across the state every single month through the Veterans Table program, Morrison said.

For too many of our veterans, the battle doesnt end when they return home, DAV State Adjutant Adam Greathouse said. This critical partnership is rooted in a shared mission to serve those who have served us and to remove any and all barriers and stigma attached to food insecurity.

Created in 2017, Veterans Table is an integral part of a network that sends food boxes to about 1,400 veterans each month across the state and continues to absorb the ripple effects of the recent federal government shutdown even as demand for emergency meals stays high.

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State support typically flows first through West Virginias two largest food banks  Mountaineer Food Bank and Facing Hunger Food Bank  and local food pantries then apply for a share of those dollars to purchase food for their communities.

As the government reopens, initiatives Veterans Table continue to support the nutritional requirements of veterans, especially those living on a fixed income.

Oh, its a big help, U.S. Navy veteran John Toth said. Ive been coming here just about since they started it and its basically a food drop with the Army bringing in the trucks, the crews setting up the lanes and the volunteers starting to hand out food around 10 a.m.

Toft added, We normally do three lines, but today I see four going across.

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Fridays plaque ceremony marked the start of a more formal way to thank partners who keep the lines moving, according to Chief Development Officer Alicia Bossi.

Mountaineer Food Bank has maintained an active partnership with the VA and DAV for many years and expects that partnership to grow across West Virginia with Bossi adding that the food bank hopes to make the event annual as it builds a broader recognition program for donors and volunteers.

I love our mission and that we get to give back to folks across West Virginia, Bossi said. Our volunteers are the heart of what we do and we want people to call, follow us online or visit our website if they want to be part of it.

The program expanded through a formal partnership with the Beckley VA and DAV in 2021 and now relies on volunteers who spend eight to 10 hours a day in vans delivering food to veterans in 11 counties within the VAs service area.

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When the shutdown hit, we had to run seven days a week across all 48 counties we serve, Morrison said. You had [nearly 200] food banks all doing the same thing, trying to get as much food as they can at the same time in a supply chain not made for that level of strain.

The Beckley ceremony highlighted how a statewide hunger network depends on national institutions, local volunteers and small, steady acts of service to reach veterans who live on fixed incomes or who may not drive and who may still feel the shock of disrupted federal benefits long after headlines move on.

We see you, Morrison said of those veterans and families still struggling after the shutdown. Were not going anywhere.
Millions of Americans greeted the end of the government shutdown  and the resumption of food stamp benefits  with relief. But others are learning they could soon lose federal food aid permanently.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins directed USDA staff during the record-setting 43-day shutdown to continue ushering states toward compliance with Republicans signature tax and spending law, which is projected to kick millions out of the nations largest anti-hunger program in the next few months.

Those changes, combined with other provisions in the new law, will represent the most significant cuts to the social safety net in decades. And it all comes as low-income families are confronting stagnating wages that arent keeping up with the skyrocketing cost of living  an issue that some Republicans blamed for their losses in off-year elections this month.

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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides an average of $6 per day for nearly 42 million people, roughly 40 percent of whom are children. Under the new law, parents and older Americans will be required to meet stricter work requirements, and states eventually will have to share in the cost of SNAP benefits, which could force further program cuts, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. Tens of thousands of legal immigrants will also lose access to the program under the law.

The loss of SNAP was really stark during the shutdown, said Dottie Rosenbaum, director of federal SNAP policy at the left-leaning Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. But [the One Big Beautiful Bill Act] is the largest cut in the program's history. That is also going to be really deeply felt.



States have started notifying participants they will be subject to new, tighter work requirements, setting up a three-month countdown for people to comply or lose benefits entirely.

Some states, like New York and California, have waivers that lift work requirements in places with high unemployment rates, which are expected to slow the full impact. But certain lawfully present immigrants, including refugees, are being notified that they are no longer eligible for SNAP, effective immediately.

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While we are concerned about any person in this country going hungry needlessly, there is something spectacularly cruel about ripping out the safety net of people who came to this country who need just a little bit of time to get back on their feet and to begin to be able to contribute economically to this country, said Naomi Steinberg, vice president of policy and advocacy at HIAS, a Jewish nonprofit that assists refugees and asylum seekers.

HIAS estimates that the SNAP changes will cut benefits for roughly 250,000 refugees and other humanitarian visa holders.

Rollins has also indicated that she may press for current SNAP participants to reapply, despite existing requirements that participants regularly certify their incomes and other factors that determine eligibility. The new plan could add red tape that will make it more difficult to get benefits.

USDAs Food and Nutrition Service issued new guidance in October and November during the shutdown on how to comply with tightened work requirements and follow other changes in the law, but some states are still struggling to interpret it. In California, where more than 5 million people use SNAP, California Department of Social Services Director Jennifer Troia said in a recent webinar that the state is still working through the new guidance.

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This is a priority for us, Troia said. We will move toward compliance with FNS guidance, while also balancing the need for accuracy and clarity.

Millions of low-income families will also lose access to Medicaid in the next few years, when stricter work requirements and other changes for that program kick in. Republicans tax and spending law has made certain legal immigrants, including refugees, ineligible for Affordable Care Act subsidies. And the Trump administration is working on a new public charge regulation that could deter millions of lawfully present immigrants from participating in federal safety net programs.

As low-income people struggle to pay utility bills and make rent, many fall back on the charitable food network to help pay for groceries. But food banks and pantries are still scrambling to recover from nearly $1 billion in federal funding cuts earlier this year  and from the chaos resulting from the pause in SNAP benefits during the shutdown.

During the week of Oct. 27, food banks purchased 325 percent more food through Feeding Americas Grocery Purchase Program than during the same time last year, according to the nonprofit.

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Matt Jozwiak, who runs Rethink Food, a charity meal organization in New York City, said his organization increased the number of meals it provided from between 40,000 to 50,000 per week to 120,000 during the shutdown.

It could not be worse, Jozwiak said. This is just like whats to come. This is bad, but [OBBA is] permanent.



With hundreds of thousands of refugees and other immigrants bracing to be kicked off SNAP, some refugee resettlement organizations are offering more emergency food options to help fill the hole.

We have a truck, we have a warehouse, and it made sense, said Laura Thompson Osuri, executive director of Homes Not Borders, a Washington-area nonprofit that assists newly-arriving refugees. Her group is now focused on food security.

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She says the OBBA changes will affect roughly 20,000 refugees in the Washington area.

Still, private-sector and nonprofit contributions wont be enough when the SNAP changes go into full effect. According to Feeding America, SNAP provides nine meals for every one provided by food banks.

Cyndi Kirkhart, who runs Facing Hunger Food Bank in West Virginia, is worried about her organizations ability to keep up.

When I wrote my budget last year for this year, I sure didn't put this crisis in it, Kirkhart said, referencing Novembers benefits lapse. Now, I'm going to anticipate there's going to be more crises, and I'll just have to budget more and hope that the same kinds of help and support line up. But at some point, everyone is affected by crises. So at what point do folks go, I can't do any more, right?
Former Arnold Police Chief Eric Doutt is facing six felony counts of felony possession with intent to deliver for allegedly selling cocaine.

According to police paperwork, the (confidential informant) advised that they have purchased cocaine from Doutt on multiple occasions over the past several years, at times, 23 times per day, and that he/she contacts Doutt at his telephone number to arrange these transactions.

Police say Doutt, 56, was seen on three separate occasions selling cocaine. The most recent was Thursday morning.

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Shortly after, Doutt was pulled over in East Franklin Township and taken into custody.

Anytime a police officer, particularly a police chief, is arrested, it has this tendency to erode confidence, in the children, in the parents, the residents in the area, the people where he works now at UPMC. It has a chilling effect, said John Cencich, a professor and criminologist at Pennsylvania Western University.

Doutt worked for the Arnold Police Department from 1990 to 2024, holding multiple roles, including DARE officer and police chief. He is currently employed, according to his LinkedIn, as an officer for UPMC Passavant, and formally sat on the New Kensington-Arnold School board.

This is now the second police chief in Westmoreland County to be arrested in two years. Shawn Dennings, the former Greensburg Police Chief, was sentenced in May of this year for selling narcotics.

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PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Former Greensburg police chief sentenced to prison

It has to do with the profit. Whether its being involved in illegal gambling, illegal narcotics, human trafficking, Cencich SAID.

UPMC has not responded to our request for comment about Doutts job at Passavant.

Doutt was unable to post his $250,000 bail and remains in the Armstrong County jail.

People in Arnold say theyre shocked, particularly because Doutt was a member of the school board and a former DARE officer.

That is absolutely crazy that somebody could betray the trust of the public like that. Absolutely insane, neighbor Joe Deluca said.

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They are supposed to be the ones that are the outstanding members of the community, neighbor Anthony Yohe said, adding, Thats very disturbing, that somebody who is supposed to be taking care of our children is accused of all of this stuff.

I mean, absolute power corrupts, though, ya know, Deluca said.

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AUSTIN (KXAN)  A former Burnet County commissioner was found guilty Friday afternoon on six counts of cruelty to animals, according to local newspaper The Highlander.

In 2022, the Burnet County Sheriffs Office seized nearly 80 head of cattle from Billy Wall after finding the cattle to be malnourished and emaciated.

PAST STORY | Burnet County commissioners herd at center of livestock cruelty investigation, cattle seized

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The Highlander reported that attorneys agreed to a two-year deferred sentence. If Wall violates probation, he faces one year in county jail for each count.

Billy Wall, former Burnet County Precinct 3 commissioner (Burnet County Photo)

September 2022 image of locked gates with Burnet County Sheriffs Office tape where seized cattle were located (KXAN Photo/Dalton Huey)

Wall was a commissioner at the time of his arrest and served Precinct 3. See more coverage on the trial on The Highlanders 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 KXAN Austin.
A former Oldham County deputy judge-executive is facing charges in connection to alleged misconduct while in office, according to a Nov. 14 release from the Office of the Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman.

According to Oldham Circuit Court records, Joseph Ender, 44, was issued a criminal summons Nov. 14 on charges of felony theft of services greater than $10,000 and misdemeanor official misconduct.

According to the indictment, Ender diverted equipment and employees from the Oldham County Road Department to complete work on his private property.

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The release credited action from the Attorney Generals Department of Criminal Investigations and Special Prosecutions Unit for Ender's indictment. Assistant Attorney General Lindsey Studebaker will prosecute the case.

Ender was fired by Oldham County Judge-Executive David Voegele in June, days after Ender filed a complaint with Coleman's office. Voegele said he "lost trust" in Ender in May when audio recordings of a close-door meeting regarding a proposed data center project began circulating online, according to previous reporting by The Courier Journal.

Ender is scheduled to appear in court Jan. 8, 2026 for his arraignment.

Killian Baarlaer contributed.

This story may update.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Fired Oldham County deputy judge-executive indicted after investigation
Fox News Rachel Campos-Duffy insisted on Saturday that political violence is a leftist problem and people need to stop saying it comes from both sides.

On Fox & Friends Weekend, Campos-Duffy argued the left needs to take more responsibility for todays political violence following someone targeting the office of Alina Habba, acting US Attorney in New Jersey. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the suspect who allegedly destroyed part of Habbas office and was pacing like a caged animal outside of her office with a bat has now been arrested.

Campos-Duffy cited conservative activist Charlie Kirk being assassinated in September, saying she is concerned for speakers replacing him at Turning Point USA events.

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We have to stop with this, you know, its on both sides. No, it actually isnt. The violence were seeing is on the left, the rhetoric is coming from the left, Antifa is on the left. These attacks are coming from left and until we identify it for what it is we cant resolve it, she said. This is a leftist problem!

In an interview the day prior on Fox News, which Campos-Duffy watched on air in part, Bondi cited some instances of political violence, including a man being arrested for attempting to burn down Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiros (D) residence.

Griff Jenkins on Fox & Friends Weekend said hes never seen political tensions as high as they are today, and he doesnt see signs that they are cooling down anytime soon.

The rhetoric has not been this high in my lifetime and Ive been in Washington for more than 30 years. I mean, theres moments, but it keeps escalating, he said.

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Alina Habbas a friend of ours, but this is something that everybody whos working for Trump is thinking about, Campos-Duffy added.

Watch above via Fox News.

The post Fox Host Decries Violence Were Seeing Is On the Left and Not the Right After Alina Habba Targeted first appeared on Mediaite.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Kaage holds deep cultural significance in Japanese tradition, where shadows are not merely absence of light but represent profound philosophical concepts. In Japanese aesthetics, particularly in the concept of 'yugen' (mysterious depth), shadows are celebrated for their subtle beauty and ability to suggest what cannot be directly seen. The traditional art of 'kage-e' (shadow pictures) and the architectural use of shadows in Japanese homes demonstrate how shadows are integral to cultural expression.



Historically, shadows were associated with ninja culture and samurai tactics, where operating from shadows represented strategic advantage rather than cowardice. In Shinto and Buddhist traditions, shadows symbolize the unseen spiritual world and the balance between visible and invisible realms. The name embodies the Japanese appreciation for subtlety, indirectness, and the beauty found in partial concealment, reflecting cultural values that prioritize depth over surface appearance.
French authorities have provided the first real look at the latest version of the Air-Sol Moyenne Portee (ASMP; or Medium-Range Air-to-Surface) ramjet-powered, nuclear-armed cruise missile. Officials in France have also confirmed that the ASMPA-Renove (ASMPA-R) variant is now in service with the countrys Navy.

A French Navy Rafale M fighter, belonging to the services Force Aeronavale Nucleaire (FANU), or Naval Nuclear Aviation Force, conducted a test launch of an ASMPA-R without a live warhead earlier today as part of what was dubbed Operation Diomede. The test involved a flight representative of a nuclear raid, according to a machine translation of a social media post from Catherine Vautrin, Frances Minister of the Armed Forces.

A French Navy Rafale M with an ASMPA-R missile on its centerline station. French Ministry of the Armed Forces

A separate statement from the Ministry of the Armed Forces of France says the ASMPA-R officially joined the FANUs arsenal on November 10. The ASMPA-R has already been operational since 2023 with the Forces Aeriennes Strategiques (FAS), or Strategic Air Forces, part of the French Air and Space Force. Both services use Rafale variants as the launch platform for these missiles. French authorities did release pictures of an Air Force Rafale carrying an ASMPA-R last year, around the first known test launch of the missile. However, the weapon was entirely blurred out. A grainy image from the actual test was also released, but it was so low quality that there were no discernible details.

A French Air Force Rafale seen carrying an ASMPA-R missile in 2024. The missile has been entirely blurred out. French Ministry of the Armed Forces

The image that French authorities released from the ASMPA-R test launch 2024. French Ministry of the Armed Forces

It is worth noting here that a portion of the French Navys Rafale M fleet has already had a nuclear mission with older ASMP-Ameliore (ASMP-A; ameliore translating into English as improved) missiles. Frances sole aircraft carrier, the Charles de Gaulle, is the only surface ship in NATO currently known to be capable of hosting nuclear weapons, but the ship does not conduct routine patrols with ASMP-series missiles onboard.

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We can now see that the renovated ASMPA-R is externally very similar to the preceding ASMP-A. Both missiles notably feature a pair of air intakes along the middle of their bodies, which is part of the ramjet propulsion systems. As seen below, the tail fin configurations do appear to be different between the A and R models. The A model has smaller fins at the rear and larger ones just in front, while the R somewhat reverses that arrangement. The reason for this is unclear.

A side-by-side comparison of an ASMP-A missile, at top, and the ASMPA-R seen in the pictures released today. French Ministry of the Armed Forces/MBDA

The ASMPA-R does reportedly have a greater range than the ASMP-A  372 miles (600 kilometers) versus 310 miles (500 kilometers)  but both missiles are said to reach a peak speed of Mach 3.

There had been reports that the ASMPA-R features a new nuclear warhead, but some sources also say it is the same TNA design found on the ASMP-A variant. The TNA is a so-called dial-a-yield design with reported yield settings ranging from a minimum of 100 kilotons to a maximum of 300 kilotons. It is possible that the TNA warheads in the R models have also been modernized as part of the upgrade process.

Otherwise, the ASMPA-R is generally described as a life-extension upgrade package for ASMP-A missiles, which first began to enter service in 2009. The ASMP-As replaced the original ASMPs, which had started entering service in 1986. The baseline ASMP had a maximum range of 186 miles (300 kilometers) and an older TN 81 warhead with the same reported range of yield settings as the newer TNA.

A French Air Force Rafale carrying an ASMP-A missile. MBDA

ASMP-series missiles fired from French Air Force and Navy Rafales make up the aerial leg of Frances current nuclear dyad. The missiles combination of supersonic speed and standoff range is intended to help ensure the missiles successfully reach their targets, while also helping to keep the launch platforms further away from threats.

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The development of the ASMPA-R, which dates back to the mid-2010s, is part of a larger ongoing effort to modernize Frances nuclear deterrent arsenal. This effort also includes the new M51.3 nuclear-armed submarine-launched ballistic missile, which officially entered service last month. M51-series missiles arm the French Navys Triomphant class nuclear ballistic missile submarines, forming the sea leg of the countrys nuclear dyad.

France is also working on a new air-launched cruise missile, the Air-Sol Nucleaire de 4eme Generation (ASN4G; or 4th Generation Air-to-Surface Nuclear), which is expected to be scramjet-powered, longer-ranged, and capable of reaching hypersonic speeds, typically defined as anything above Mach 5. Todays statement from the French Ministry of Armed Forces also confirms that the goal is still for the ASN4G to begin entering service in the 2035 timeframe.

There have also been a number of significant developments regarding French nuclear deterrent policy, in general, this year. Reports in February said the French officials were eyeing forward-deploying nuclear-capable Rafales to Germany, citing concerns about the commitment of the United States to the NATO alliance. Within NATO, there are three nuclear powers, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Some non-nuclear member states are also party to agreements wherein they could gain access to U.S. nuclear gravity bombs in the event of a major crisis.

In March, French President Emmanuel Macron also announced that his country would establish a new nuclear-capable air base, the countrys fourth overall, which will host French Air Force Rafales. In July, France signed an agreement to formally coordinate its deterrence forces with those of the United Kingdom, as well.

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There has been a certain new openness about nuclear weapons and deterrence within NATO, as a whole, in the past few years, which has come amid concerns about spillover from the conflict in Ukraine and general Russian aggression.

Regardless, Frances own nuclear modernization efforts are continuing apace, with French Navy Rafale Ms having now joined their French Air Force counterparts as launch platforms for the ASMPA-R cruise missile.

Contact the author: joe@twz.com
Want a free tree and some expert advice on how to help it thrive in the desert?

Head to Branigan Library on Nov. 19, 2025 for a climate-focused talk that will dig into the future of tree planting in southern New Mexico.

The event is part of New Mexico State University's Cambios Climate Change Speaker Series. Dr. Marisa Thompson, a horticulture specialist, will discuss which trees are best suited for the region's climate, according to a community announcement.

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Attendees will have the opportunity to receive free trees while supplies last. Additionally, each participant will receive a flyer with tips for propagating trees at home.

The Dona Ana Soil & Water Conservation District is providing the trees for the event. The district will also provide an update on its federally funded project to expand the tree canopy across Dona Ana County. This initiative seeks to mitigate the effects of heat islands.

As average temperatures in the Southwest continue to rise due to climate change, selecting appropriate trees for shade and relief becomes increasingly important. The event aims to educate the community on making informed choices for their landscapes.

The talk, titled Climate-Ready Trees: Smart Shade Solutions for Cooler Landscapes, will cover various tree species that can thrive in the local climate. Thompson will provide insights into how these trees can help create cooler environments around homes and neighborhoods.

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This story was created by reporter Andy Dossett, ADossett@gannett.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Free trees and planting tips offered at Las Cruces climate event
NORTHBOROUGH  From out of the rubble and bad reputation of the former Motel 6 comes Spark by Hilton, a brand-new hotel with a clean slate and nothing but goodwill on its success.

Located right off the Boston-Worcester Turnpike (Route 9), Spark by Hilton officially opens Wednesday, Nov. 19, according to Jaimin Patel, who co-owns the hotel with his brother, Shashin Patel, and their father, Jayesh Patel.

Spark by Hilton is a newer premium economy hotel brand from Hilton that focuses on quality and comfort at an affordable price.

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It's a cornerstone on Route 9. And we wanted to make sure we brought Northborough's first branded Hilton hotel to the town, which we did," Jaimin Patel said. The town's Master Plan said they wanted a Hilton or Marriott brand at this site."

Together, the family owns three hotels: Hampton Inn, 736 Southbridge St., Auburn; the Holiday Inn Express and Suites, 21 New Boston Road, Sturbridge; and Spark by Hilton, 27 Belmont St., Northborough

We had an original plan of demolishing this property and rebuilding the whole site, Jaimin Patel said. COVID derailed that, so we did the next best thing, which was basically a full gut job at this Motel 6 stop.

Brothers Jaiman and Shashin Patel, owners of Spark by Hilton in Northborough.

Jaimin Patel said Hilton representatives came out the week before its opening and ranked it a Top 5 Spark in the system.

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It's not a lipstick job. It's a full demo (demolition) and redone from inside-out, Jaimin Patel said. It's completely transformed this corner lot on Route 9. It's beautiful. It's absolutely beautiful.

With the double whammy of COVID and a fire on the premises, Motel 6 closed its doors for good in 2021.

My family put their blood, sweat and tears into this project, Jaimin Patel said. We are very prideful owners. We want to do things the right way. The town deserves this. They were craving it. It was in their Master Plan... When the town sees this opening, they are going to be very pleased and very happy what my family has done here.

And it's doubtful that anyone will miss the old Motel 6 and its seedy reputation.

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In 2012 alone, the former hotel has been the site of a killing, several prostitution stings and a serious stabbing.

Prostitutes from Providence and other areas had used the Motel 6 to set up shop, an issue that other hotel chains in Central Massachusetts have also dealt with.

Two Shrewsbury men, both 23, were stabbed at Motel 6 in what police described as a drug deal that went awry. One of the men was stabbed in the neck.

Joseph Webster, 19, of Worcester was fatally stabbed, suffering more than 10 stab wounds, in an attack in March 2012 at the motel.

On May 2, 2016, James Howze pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and larceny of a motor vehicle and was sentenced to 33 to 35 years in state prison.

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Lara Cori, who also used the name Lara Corey, was sentenced in the summer of 2015 to 18 to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to voluntary manslaughter and armed robbery. Jaimin Patel said the new 89-room hotel looks nothing like the old place. The only similarity between the old Motel 6 and new Spark by Hilton is that they share the same address, he said.

It's a brand-new building. The only thing that's old is the elevator, but that's been redone, he said. It's a new roof. It's new piping. It's new walls. It's new flooring. Its new paint. It's new decor. It's a new sprinkler system. It's a new sewer system. Everything is brand-new in the place.

Jaimin Patel said the hotel is as new as it can be with all amenities, including free breakfast, free parking, free WiFi and free use of its onsite fitness center, that you would want in a first-rate hotel.

I'm proud to put my family's name behind this building, Jaimin Patel said. This project came out really, really, really well. And when Hilton themselves say that this is a top Five Spark in their system, that speaks volume.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: New Northborough Spark by Hilton hotel to open on former Motel 6 site
MIDDLETOWN, Pa. (WHTM)  The Pennsylvania Air National Guard announced one of its wings went into lockdown Saturday morning due to a report of shots being heard near an aircraft flightline.

The PA National Guard reported that its 193rd Special Operations Wing in Middletown, Dauphin County, went into lockdown today at around 10:45 a.m.

The base activated its Active Shooter response measures, secured the base, and confirmed that all was clear shortly after.

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According to the National Guard, a wing member suffered a minor injury while responding to the lockdown and was transported via ambulance to a local medical facility for treatment.

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Harrisburg International Airport officials believe the shots heard may have come from local bird hunters. The National Guard says all wing personnel have been accounted for.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza (AP)  Israel returned the bodies of 15 Palestinians to Gaza on Friday, officials at Nasser hospital in Khan Younis said, in the latest step to fulfilling the terms of the fragile U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement.

The bodies were returned after militants late Thursday handed over the body of one of the last four remaining Israeli hostages taken during the Oct. 7, 2023, attack that launched the war in Gaza.

Israel identified the returned body as that of Meny Godard, who was abducted from Kibbutz Beeri in southern Israel. His wife, Ayelet, was killed during the attack.

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The armed wings of Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad said Godards body was recovered in southern Gaza.

The remains of 25 hostages have been returned to Israel since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began on Oct. 10. There are still three more in Gaza that need to be recovered and handed over. Hamas returned 20 living hostages to Israel on Oct. 13.

For each hostage returned, Israel has released the remains of 15 Palestinians, an exchange central to the ceasefires first phase. Overall, the number of bodies of Palestinians received so far is 330, of which only 95 have been formally identified, according to Gaza Health Ministry officials.

Health officials in Gaza have said identifying the remains handed over by Israel is complicated by a lack of DNA testing kits.

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The bodies of 27 unidentified Palestinians were interred in Gaza on Friday.

Displaced families endure wet, wintry conditions

As winter settles over Gaza and the first rains begin, displaced families are struggling to keep their makeshift shelters from collapsing under the weather.

As cloudy skies Friday threatened another downpour in Gaza City, Abdel Rahim Halawa, a father of seven children, worked to fasten a tarp over his tent made of wood, blankets and sheets of plastic.

All of the mattresses and blankets got drenched this evening. If more rain comes on us, we dont know how we can live anymore, he said.

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Some families have taken shelter in what remains of destroyed buildings. One family lives inside a section of concrete held up by a single crooked column, its open side covered with a piece of tarp.

Yes, it might collapse. Some committees came and told us its forbidden to live inside of it, but we have no alternative, especially in the winter with the severe cold, said Saed Salhi, who is living in the structure with four members of his family, all displaced from their home in Jabaliya in northern Gaza.

UN human rights chief says settler violence must end

The U.N.'s human rights chief, Volker Turk, on Friday joined a chorus of condemnation over a recent string of attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank, urging an end to the violence and for Israel to hold the perpetrators accountable.

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U.N. Human Rights Commissioner spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan said more than 260 attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians and their property in the West Bank were recorded in October, more than in any month since 2006.

We reiterate that the Israeli governments assertion of sovereignty over the occupied West Bank and its annexation of parts of it are in breach of international law, as the International Court of Justice has confirmed, said Al-Kheetan.

Israeli settlers on Thursday torched and defaced a mosque in a Palestinian village in the central West Bank. That followed violence two days earlier during which dozens of masked Israeli settlers set fire to vehicles and other property in the Palestinian villages of Beit Lid and Deir Sharaf.

The attacks on the two Palestinian villages prompted Israeli President Isaac Herzog to denounce them as shocking and serious. The Israeli armys chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, said the military will not tolerate the phenomena of a minority of criminals who tarnish a law-abiding public.

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U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Wednesday that there's concern that the events in the West Bank "could undermine what were doing in Gaza.

Israeli officials have sought to cast settler violence as the work of a few extremists. But Palestinians and rights groups say that the violence is widespread and carried out by settlers across the territory, with impunity from Israels far-right government. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hasnt commented on the surge in violence.

The Palestinian Health Ministry in the West Bank said six teenagers  aged 15 to 17  were shot and killed by Israeli fire in four separate incidents over the last two weeks. In the most recent incident Thursday, two 15-year-old boys were killed near the village of Beit Ummar.

The Israeli military said that in three of the incidents its soldiers were responding to terrorists hurling either Molotov cocktails or explosives or carrying out a terror attack. In the other, the military said troops acted according to standard operating procedures and opened fire against Palestinians throwing rocks to remove the threat.

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What's next for Gaza

The next parts of the 20-point ceasefire plan call for creating an international stabilization force, forming a technocratic Palestinian government and disarming Hamas.

The fragile agreement aims to wind down the war that was triggered by the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel that killed about 1,200 people and saw 251 taken hostage.

Israel responded with a sweeping military offensive that has killed more than 69,100 Palestinians in Gaza, according to Gazas Health Ministry. The ministry, part of the Hamas-run government and staffed by medical professionals, maintains detailed records viewed as generally reliable by independent experts.

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___

This story has been updated to correct that there were more than 260 attacks by settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank in October, not 206.

___

Follow APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has reiterated that his party will not cooperate with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

"Not because there is a firewall between us  forget that word - we are worlds apart from this party," Merz told a meeting of his conservative bloc's youth movement in the south-western German town of Rust on Saturday. "We have nothing in common with them."

Merz has consistently said that his bloc would never work with the AfD, a concept called the firewall.

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He emphasized that he has no intention of jeopardizing the legacy of this party, which he associates with the names of Helmut Kohl and Konrad Adenauer.

Merz also stressed that under his leadership, Germany should remain a country open to immigrants. He said that while irregular migration must be consistently combated, immigrants who want to work in Germany will continue to be welcomed in the future.
A Grady County Sheriffs Office deputy credited with saving his partners life during the multi-county pursuit of a suspect has been named as the 2025 Oklahoma Officer of the Year.

Attorney General Gentner Drummond, the states top law-enforcement official, presented Deputy Kenton Blumenthal with the award on Thursday, Nov. 13, in Oklahoma City. Blumenthal, a third-generation law-enforcement officer who has served Oklahoma communities since 2017, was recognized during a ceremony, as were the states other regional officers of the year.

Blumenthal earlier had been named as the Southwest Region Officer of the Year. Other regional honorees included Investigator Darren Gordon of the Oklahoma County District Attorney's Office (Northwest Region), Officer Nicholas Winters of the Coweta Police Department (Northeast Region), and Deputy Chief Gary Colley of the Stringtown Police Department, Sheriff Kody Simpson of the Atoka County Sheriff's Office, Lt. Jimmy Taylor of the Atoka Police Department, and Detective Aaron Thomas of the Stringtown Police Department, who collectively represented the Southeast Region.

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Regional winners were selected by judging panels of city, county, tribal and state criminal justice professionals. Last year, Drummond created the regional and statewide program to recognize law-enforcement officers.

"Deputy Blumenthal is highly deserving of this honor," Drummond said. "He is an exceptional law-enforcement officer whose bravery ended a tremendously perilous situation that threatened communities across multiple counties. I congratulate Deputy Blumenthal and thank him for his service."

AG Drummond describes high-speed chase

The event that resulted in Blumenthals honor happened in December 2024, when an armed suspect led multiple law-enforcement agencies on a multi-county, high-speed pursuit that eventually entered Grady County.

Drummond said the suspect, who had a history of violence, had stolen a vehicle and endangered citizens across multiple counties and cities for nearly an hour. The suspect rammed through roadblocks, struck a police vehicle and drove past Blumenthal's own residence at more than 100 miles per hour while the deputy's child played in the front yard.

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When the pursuit ended at the suspect's residence, Blumenthal and another deputy pursued him on foot through challenging terrain, Drummond said, with the suspect concealing himself in tall grass in an apparent ambush attempt, then suddenly standing, drawing two pistols and pointing them toward the deputies.

2025 Oklahoma Officer of the Year, Kenton Blumenthal of the Grady County Sheriff's Office

Blumenthal made the split-second decision to use deadly force, neutralizing the threat and ending the dangerous situation, Drummond said.

Grady County Sheriff Gary Boggess said Blumenthals quick thinking saved his partners life, because his partner never (saw) the guns.

Grady County Sheriffs Capt. Billy Moon echoed that sentiment: When you have an incident that's as dangerous and as volatile as that was, it couldn't have been done any better. He definitely is one of the guys that you want on the scene when things go bad. I know exactly how he's going to react and what he's going to do and I trust him. I trust him to get anything done that we need done, so I know he's I know he's going to handle business.

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Blumenthal said the recognition hasn't changed me, who I am. I didn't do this to be rewarded or anything. I did it to make sure that we all went home and ultimately, the bad guy was placed in custody.

Sgt. Zachary Havenar of the Oklahoma Department of Tourism was named the Lethality Assessment Protocol Officer of the Year, recognizing his commitment to domestic violence victim safety and trauma-informed use of the LAP screening tool.

The ceremony also featured the presentation of the inaugural Johnny Christian Award, honoring the legacy of Bryan County Sheriff Johnny Christian, who served Oklahoma law enforcement for more than 25 years. Marton "Bo" Williams of the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service received the award, which recognizes an officer who embodies Sheriff Christian's integrity, leadership and dedication to mentoring others.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Grady County deputy named as the 2025 Oklahoma Officer of the Year
Lined up outside the West Side's Aspire Center for Workforce Innovation, hundreds of Chicagoans patiently waited for a crucial box of food amid an already uncertain time for people living with food insecurity on Saturday.

"I'm retired now, so I count every penny. You go to the grocery store, the fruits, veggies, meats, everything is off the chain," said one SNAP recipient.

The Greater Chicago Food Depository hosted nine separate emergency food distribution events across the Chicago area on Saturday to meet the need as the state works to pay out SNAP benefits.

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Even as the federal government reopens, many in Illinois still have not received benefits and may not until later this week.

People at Saturday's distribution at Austin's Aspire Center for Workforce Innovation took home milk, bread, and a box of shelf-stable foods.

"When the SNAP program was suspended by the government, we knew that there were going to be millions of people across this country, and hundreds of thousands of people here in the city of Chicago, who all of a sudden would fall into a world of hurt," said Greater Chicago Food Depository Executive Director Kate Maehr. "We knew before the shutdown, we had record number of people struggling with hunger. One in four families here in the city of Chicago faces hunger."

SEE ALSO | ABC7 Chicago kicks off annual Feed the Love campaign as SNAP benefits in limbo | How to donate

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Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson took time out of his schedule to help personally pass out boxes of food to his constituents.

He also signed an executive order that directs city resources to nonprofits and food pantries working to help meet the need during this time.

"I know what it's like to come home after school, and you open up the refrigerator, and there's no food in it," Johnson said. "All of Chicago is coming together at a critical time in our world's history to show up for the least of these."

Chicago's Janice Wilson spoke with ABC7 from her car as she picked up food on Saturday morning.

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She says she has not received any SNAP benefits this month, making these events crucial for her and her family.

"This here is a blessing. Whatever they are doing at the food pantry, it's a blessing," Wilson said.

When times are tough, Chicago comes together.

Click here for more information on Saturday's Greater Chicago Food Depository distribution events.
When the GreenLight Fund launched in Dallas, it promised to provide innovative solutions.

As previously reported by The Dallas Express, over 100 Dallas business leaders, including Mark Cuban and the Gene and Jerry Jones Family Foundation, supported the funds $5 million launch in November.

The organization prioritizes its approach around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

We tackle ongoing disparities perpetuated over generations by unjust systems and policies, the funds website reads.

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GreenLight Fund coordinates small, local grants for unmet needs often resulting from racial and economic disparities, according to its website. It openly centers racial equity, builds diverse and representative teams, celebrates intersectionality of our identities, and creates spaces of belonging and acceptance.

Without explicitly centering the deeply rooted link between poverty and race, we can inadvertently perpetuate the kinds of racial power disparities and dynamics we seek to eradicate, the website reads.

The fund pledged to boost equity and access with the GreenLight Method  from how we identify and elevate community needs, to how we vet, select, invest in, and measure proven programs.

GreenLight Fund is committed to operating in ways that are consistent with our values, deeply community-centered and in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, the funds website reads.

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The federal government, through the Corporation for National and Community Service  now AmeriCorps  pledged $4.68 million to GreenLight Fund starting in 2012, according to government records. It is unclear if the government ever paid for the funding.

Earlier this year, President Donald Trump directed the Department of Justice to investigate federal funding for discriminatory DEI programs. In July, Attorney General Pam Bondi outlined the criteria for illegal discrimination to trigger DOJ action.

Centering Racial Equity

The Boston-based GreenLight Fund had $52.68 million in assets as of 2022, according to InfluenceWatch.

The funds long-time former CEO, Margaret Hall, donated to various Democratic politicians, including Hillary Clinton, Raphael Warnock, and Elizabeth Warren, as InfluenceWatch reported. She left the fund in 2024, replaced by now-CEO Ali Knight, who pledged to continue blending innovation with equity.

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Robert Mays is GreenLight Funds vice president of people, equity, and culture. Prior to his current role, per LinkedIn, he served in the same position at Planned Parenthood.

The Ford Foundation  one of Americas largest grantmaking foundations, which often bankrolls left-wing causes  gave $750,000 to the fund since 2017, as InfluenceWatch first reported.

GreenLight Fund claims there is an urgent need for change for racial equity, according to its website.

Black, Indigenous, Asian, Hispanic, and LatinX individuals and families across our country, continue to face deep-rooted racism, poverty, health disparities and a lack of opportunities perpetuated over generations by unjust systems and policies, the website reads.

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GreenLight Fund uses intersectional language, closely tied to Critical Race Theory, as The Dallas Express reported. It claimed oppression worsens at intersections between different identities.

These are compounded when there are intersections with gender and sexual identities, disabilities, age, religious beliefs and other categories that can marginalize people, the website reads.

The GreenLight Fund began in 2004, focusing on community-centered work to build what it called inclusive prosperity. It has made progress to move people out of poverty, especially those historically impacted by structural racial and economic inequities.

Yet, without explicitly centering the deeply rooted link between poverty and race, we can inadvertently perpetuate the kinds of racial power disparities and dynamics we seek to eradicate, the website reads.

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While we have made intentional, tangible progress identifying our blind spots, addressing practices stemming from our power and privilege, overcoming biases, and strengthening diversity, equity and inclusion over the past several years, we know we still have much more work to do, it continues.

GreenLight Fund adopted racial equity as a major pillar of its strategic plan in 2021. It is committed to intentionally and explicitly centering racial equity in everything we do  both internally and in our program work within our communities.

The funds strategy would place racial equity as a core component, its team and culture would build a diverse team of leaders, staff, and board members, its selection process would emphasize increasing diversity, representation, and participation of community members directly impacted by deep-rooted inequities.

Its program model would also boost equity and access throughout the GreenLight Method  from how we identify and elevate community needs, to how we vet, select, invest in, and measure proven programs.

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The fund pledged to accelerate progress towards racial equity across its growing, national network of sites.

Backing DEI Hiring

GreenLight Fund coordinates a network of nonprofits across 15 regions nationwide  launching its Dallas hub in November, according to its 2025 Impact Report. Its grantmaking process includes five steps: discover, scout, select, invest, and measure.

Its system operates as a pull network, bringing programs from across America to meet what it identifies as local needs.

GreenLight searches the country for proven programs to address local unmet needs and invests in their expansion in partnership with our communities, the report reads.

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One of its many portfolio organizations is Genesys Works, with a Keller mailing address. According to InfluenceWatch, this group deals with large companies to reserve positions for minority candidates.

Genesys Works aims to give pathways to career success for high school students in underserved communities with skills training, work experience, and relationships, according to its website. It also commits to equity.

We acknowledge systemic barriers and advocate for increased access to resources and opportunities that promote upward mobility, the groups website reads.

Genesys Works partners with major corporations, including Cloudflare, Deloitte, Target, and Texas Childrens Hospital.

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In 2022, the group called to reevaluate historic recruitment practices. It said every year, companies commit to supporting DEI, but people of color are still underrepresented in the most influential fields.

If companies are seeking diverse candidates for hire, they have to meet these candidates where they are, said Jeffrey Artis, then-president and CEO. Providing young people who lack traditional access to careers early exposure to the workplace is just one of the strategies our company partners use to widen the talent pool, diversify the pipeline and build a stronger workforce.

Genesys Works emphasized the benefits of diversity in the workplace, and called for more inclusive hiring practices.

Each year, our programming provides thousands of young people with resources, access to skills training, social capital, and meaningful work experiences, the website reads. In return, companies committed to creating equity and positive change in todays work culture receive access to an untapped pool of trained candidates.

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Genesys Works cited COVID-19 at the time, saying prioritizing diversity continues to be critical for businesses.

Stay the course, its website reads. Learn more about how your company can partner with us to develop meaningful strategies that advance your DEI goals and offer economic opportunities to young people in your communities.

The Dallas Express contacted Genesys Works but did not receive a response. The Dallas Express also requested input from the GreenLight Fund and Cuban regarding the groups DEI efforts, but did not get a reply.
Attorney General Pam Bondi and the prosecutor overseeing the criminal case against former FBI Director James Comey pushed back Friday against a judges suggestion that records of grand jury proceedings in the politically charged case had gone missing.

Bondi and the attorney she tapped for the prosecutor role at President Donald Trumps suggestion, Lindsey Halligan, submitted unusual written statements to U.S. District Judge Cameron Currie in an attempt to clear the air about Halligans hurried grand jury presentation in September.

At a hearing Thursday in federal court in Alexandria, Virginia, Currie expressed surprise that transcripts prosecutors gave her of the Sept. 25 grand jury proceedings ended at 4:28 p.m., but that Comeys indictment was not presented to a magistrate judge until 6:47 p.m. that evening.

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Halligan said that gap of more than two hours simply reflected the grand jurys discussions about the case, which are not recorded or transcribed.

The period in question consisted solely of the grand jurys private deliberations, during which no prosecutor, court reporter, or other person may be present, Halligan wrote in a two-page statement, submitted under penalty of perjury. There are no missing minutes, contrary to the suggestion raised by the court.

Still, the Justice Department did not appear to dispute another point the judge made Thursday: Bondi did not have a complete record of the grand jury proceedings when she purported to retroactively ratify Halligans actions last month. Prosecutors offered Bondis ratification as a rebuttal to Comeys claims that Halligan wasnt properly appointed as an interim U.S. attorney when she obtained the indictment.

Currie noted Thursday that while Bondis initial ratification was dated Oct. 31, prosecutors did not obtain a more complete transcript of the grand jury session until Nov. 5, after she requested it. That meant Bondi could not have had those additional materials when she claimed to ratify Halligans actions in front of the grand jury.

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The new one-page ratification from Bondi, dated Friday, confirms that shes now seen all the relevant transcripts. For the avoidance of doubt, I have reviewed the entirety of the record now available to the government and confirm my knowledge of the material facts associated with the grand jury proceedings, she wrote.

Its not clear that even the more extensive ratification Bondi has now offered can cure possible legal flaws with Halligans appointment. Defense attorneys for Comey have argued that Bondi lacked the power to appoint Halligan to the prosecutor post on a temporary basis because the administration already appointed another attorney, Erik Siebert, to fill the same vacancy back in January. New York Attorney General Letitia James, whom Halligan brought charges against days after securing the Comey indictment, is also challenging Halligans appointment.

Siebert resigned a few days before Comey was indicted, although Trump later claimed to have fired him.

Comeys lead attorney, Patrick Fitzgerald, declined to comment Friday on the new Justice Department filings.

Comey and James have both pleaded not guilty. Comey is charged with obstruction and making a false statement to Congress related to testimony he gave in 2020 to the Senate Judiciary Committee. James is charged with bank fraud and making false statements to a financial institution in connection with her purchase of a secondary residence in Virginia.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Liberty carries deep cultural significance that spans religious, political, and social dimensions. In Christian tradition, liberty represents the spiritual freedom described in 2 Corinthians 3:17: 'Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.' This theological concept of freedom from sin and spiritual bondage has influenced Western thought for centuries. Historically, the name gained prominence during the Age of Enlightenment and revolutionary periods, particularly in America and France, where it became associated with democratic ideals and human rights. The Statue of Liberty, dedicated in 1886, cemented the name's association with immigration, hope, and the American dream. During the abolition movement and women's suffrage era, 'Liberty' became a rallying cry and symbolic name representing liberation from various forms of oppression. In modern contexts, the name continues to embody aspirations for personal autonomy, social justice, and the fundamental human right to self-determination.
From left, Wayne County Director of Elections Greg Mahar and canvassers Toni Sellars, Lisa Capatina, Richard Preuss, and Edward Keelean at a Board of Canvassers meeting on Nov. 14, 2025, in Detroit. The canvassers considered whether to count 37 absentee ballots from Hamtramck that were discovered after Election Day. (Hayley Harding / Votebeat)

This article was originally published by Votebeat, a nonprofit news organization covering local election administration and voting access. Sign up for Votebeat Michigans free newsletter here.

More than three dozen Hamtramck voters have been disenfranchised after three non-election officials walked into the city clerks sealed office on election night, compromising the security of absentee ballots that were mistakenly left there.

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The Wayne County Board of Canvassers deadlocked Friday on whether to count the 37 ballots, which were discovered in that office the day after Election Day, having been opened but not removed from their envelopes. Because the board didnt have a majority of votes in favor of counting them, the ballots will not be included in the final tallies of the election.

Its not clear whether officials at any level are obligated to tell those 37 voters about the fate of their ballots. Greg Mahar, Wayne Countys director of elections, said he wasnt aware of any requirements around that. State officials said they werent aware of any regulations on that either.

Those uncounted ballots could have been pivotal for the result of the closely contested, open-seat mayoral election in the city, which borders Detroit. According to unofficial results, engineer Adam Alharbi currently leads City Council member Muhith Mahmood in the race by only 11 votes.

At issue in the canvassing boards deliberations was the ballots chain of custody, which must be maintained to ensure the results of the election are accurate and legitimate. Clerks offices are sealed around the time of elections, meaning only election officials come into and out of places where ballots are stored.

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Due to what officials have said was human error by those who were counting absentee ballots on election night, the 37 ballots in question were opened but never counted. Upon noting a discrepancy in the numbers, election officials looked for the ballots, City Clerk Rana Faraj told the canvassers at their meeting Thursday, but did not find them until the next day. Those ballots were then sealed in a secure envelope and brought to the county.

But the clerk and her team later realized that three other city officials, including interim City Manager Alex Lagrou, walked into the office late on election night, Faraj said. That broke the chain of custody of those ballots, casting doubt onto whether they could be counted.

Its uncertain why Lagrou and the other officials entered the office. Lagrou could not be reached for comment Friday. Its not clear who the other non-election officials were.

Becki Carmargo, assistant corporation counsel for Wayne County, told the canvassers on Friday that the board had precedent to reject the ballots based on similar cases in the past. She recommended that the ballots be rejected.

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The Democrats on the board, Richard Preuss and Edward Keelean, both argued the votes should be counted. Preuss, the boards vice chair, said he would like to see affidavits or sworn testimony from the officials who entered the office, because throwing out votes without having evidence is reckless.

I havent seen any evidence saying theres any fraud, he said, and to say that these 37 dont count because of an allegation of potential fraud is completely contrary to this boards sworn duty.

Lisa Capatina, a Republican and the chair of the board, argued that such an investigation would be outside of the power of the canvassers. The canvassers are ministerial, she said, meaning their primary job is to confirm the election results.

The canvassers ultimately voted along party lines, and the 2-2 deadlock means the ballots will not be counted.

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The mayoral election now hinges on 120 cured ballots tabulated during the canvassers meeting Thursday. Those will be taken into the count on Tuesday as the board finalizes the canvas.

Mahmood, the currently trailing mayoral candidate, told Votebeat before the meeting that he hoped the canvassers did the right thing.

At the end of the day, those are peoples votes, he said. He declined to comment further after the meeting.

Hayley Harding is a reporter for Votebeat based in Michigan. Contact Hayley at hharding@votebeat.org. Votebeat is a nonprofit news organization covering local election integrity and voting access. Sign up for their newsletters here.
Across New Mexico, the federal government manages approximately 27 million acres of public land  forests, parks, monuments, wildlife refuges and more.

"All of these areas are facing challenges," Len Montgomery, the great outdoors campaign director for Environment New Mexico, said Thursday evening. "Climate change, development, habitat fragmentation and pollution  but as if that weren't already challenging enough, we've got some really big political challenges."

These compounding challenges  and how conservationists hope to address them  were the subject of a town hall Thursday at Tumbleroot Brewery and Distillery hosted by the Environment New Mexico Research Policy Center. Four panelists answered questions from audience members and outlined New Mexico's potential next steps  including during the legislative session starting in January  amid shifting federal policy on public land.

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The purpose of the event was to give attendees a sense of hope and direction, plus information about what's happening, Montgomery said in an interview earlier Thursday.

"There is so much happening in the news right now and so many headlines that I think it is very hard for people to follow what's happening to our public lands and on other environmental issues versus what's been proposed, what's been floated, what's something that someone just said on a speech or posted on X," she said. "And we know that New Mexicans and particularly people in the Santa Fe area are very connected to our public lands."

Federal challenges

At the town hall, Montgomery split the current public land challenges into four categories: the government shutdown, which officially ended Wednesday; the rollback and rescission of rules and regulations; budget and staffing cuts; and the push for increased logging, mining and drilling.

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She specifically mentioned recent actions by the Bureau of Land Management  which President Donald Trump recently nominated former New Mexico Congressman Steve Pearce to lead  around Chaco Canyon and the Public Lands Rule.

The Trump administration earlier this month said it would initiate meetings with Native American tribes in the Chaco Canyon area as it considers revoking a 20-year ban on oil and gas development across more than 300,000 acres and surrounding Chaco Culture National Historical Park imposed during the Biden administration.

"For decades, groups have fought supporting the pueblos to keep that area protected," Montgomery said. "So much of the rest of the area has been developed that it's one of the places that the plants and animals can thrive."

Montgomery expects there will be an upcoming public comment period where people can voice their thoughts on the proposed change.

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The Public Lands Rule  also a Biden-era initiative  "elevates conservation as an equal value with mining, logging, drilling, grazing and other activities that are practiced on Bureau of Land Management land," Montgomery said. A public comment period on a proposal to repeal the rule ended Monday and yielded about 70,000 comments nationwide, around 200 of which mentioned New Mexico.

Panelist Dan Roper, New Mexico state lead with the nationwide river and steam conservation organization Trout Unlimited, said his message to New Mexicans in the face of the potential rescission of these regulations remains relatively optimistic  at least locally.

"Sometimes it feels like, 'Oh my gosh, the sky's falling, and everything's under attack,'  he said.

"The sky isn't falling yet, but I'd say everything that we care about as conservationists is kind of on the chopping block right now," he said. "But we haven't lost, and in fact I think there are a lot of opportunities still to move the needle forward, especially here in New Mexico at the state level."

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State-level action

These opportunities include action during the legislative session, partnering with industry and expanding the state's Outstanding Natural Resource Waters  streams, lakes and wetlands that get enhanced protections  said panelist Zoe Barker, legislative director for Conservation Voters New Mexico.

IMG_4418.jpg (copy)

An aerial view of Chaco Canyon in September.

The upcoming 30-day legislative session will be primarily budget-focused, Barker said, "but budget can go a long way." The Land of Enchantment Legacy Fund, for example, provides long-term funding for state agencies and programs that support public lands, wildlife and conservation, she said.

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"Funding our state agencies is so, so important and something that is really easy to overlook when we're talking about these issues, but they're the ones that can kind of pick up some of the slack and also just help support this effort throughout the state," she said.

Panelist Chris Smith, wildlife and wild places program director with WildEarth Guardians, was the self-described "whimsical" voice at the town hall. He suggested everyone find a piece of land they care about and go there every week, every month, every year and every decade, observing the ecological processes.

Montgomery agreed, but proposed taking it a step further.

"We need to get to a place in this country where protecting the environment is not a controversial or partisan or niche issue," she said. "And so I would say find the piece of land and then go find someone you don't see eye to eye with on everything politically, or who you know hasn't spent time outside, and bring them to that piece of land. Go find some kids, bring them to that piece of land. We need to rebuild the environmental ethic."
The airport has become a hotbed of issues in the spotlighta shortage of air traffic controllers, long TSA lines exacerbated by the government shutdown, and packed terminals highlighting the nations strained aviation system.

But theres another critical group keeping planes moving on timeand theyre facing a dire shortage: aviation maintenance technicians.

Some 83% of technicians are expected to retire or leave the profession globally over the next decade, according to the CAE Aviation Talent Forecast. By 2034, that translates to a need of about 416,000 new aircraft maintenance technicians worldwide.

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Jason Pfaff, CEO of the Aviation Institute of Maintenance, told Fortune the occupation has largely suffered from a lack of awareness and has become largely hidden.

Theres a very acute shortage in our country today of aviation mechanics, Pfaff told Fortune. We have on average about half the number of trained certified mechanics that we need.

To meet the demand, many aviation technician programs, including AIM, offer 21-month training programsall at a fraction of the cost of a four-year degree. If students then pass the FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) exams, they become one of the most in-demand people in aerospace, Pfaff added. Depending on the campus, AIM employment placement rates average around 73%.

While the work isnt all glamoroustechnicians often endure extreme weather, noisy tarmacs, and the smell of jet fumesthe payoff can be substantial. In the U.S., the median salary for these roles is around $79,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Climbing the ranksand taking advantage of overtimecan quickly push pay well into the six figures. And in some cases, total compensation can reach $300,000 or more, said Bianca Miller, an avionics technician at Newark Liberty International Airport.

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The opportunities are endless, Miller previously told Fortune. At the end of the day, there really is no wrong.

A broader lack of attention to the trades

The demand for aviation maintenance technicians is playing out in real time. Take Pittsburgh International Airport, for example. Thanks to an expansion from American Airlines, the number of aviation maintenance positions is expected to nearly double from about 360 at the end of last year to about 600 this year, according to Christina Cassotis, the airports CEO.

And while she said they havent had trouble finding or retaining aircraft maintenance talent, the airport hasnt been immune from the broader shortage of skilled trade workers. When Pittsburgh began construction on its new terminal in 2021, for instance, there werent enough workers in the region to support the project.

I think that in the past few years, we have over-indexed on college as the right career path for most, and careers in the trades havent been given the attention they deserve as a viable option, Cassotis said.

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Its a sentiment echoed far beyond aviation.

Just last week, Ford CEO Jim Farley sounded the alarm on the shortage of talent to fill manual-labor jobs in the U.S.

We are in trouble in our country. We are not talking about this enough, Farley told the Office Hours: Business Edition podcast. We have over a million openings in critical jobs, emergency services, trucking, factory workers, plumbers, electricians, and tradesmen. Its a very serious thing.

A lack of skilled trade workers also threatens the tech industrys rapid buildout of AI data centers.

If youre an electrician, youre a plumber, a carpenterwere going to need hundreds of thousands of them to build all of these factories, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang told Channel 4 News in the U.K. earlier this year.

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The skilled craft segment of every economy is going to see a boom. Youre going to have to be doubling and doubling and doubling every single year.

Gen Z, for its part, appears to be listening. Enrollment at two-year public trade-focused institutions is up nearly 20% since spring 2020, according to National Student Clearinghouse. And in aviation maintenance specifically, AIM has seen Gen Z applications soar by about 40% over the last two years.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
A grizzly bear attack in Canada caused renewed concern about how shrinking habitats and rising global temperatures are bringing people and wildlife into increasingly risky proximity.

What's happening?

On Oct. 12, two hikers were airlifted to a hospital after a grizzly bear attack on a hiking trail.

The attack occurred in the McGregor Mountain area, northeast of Prince George, according to Canada's Conservation Officer Service on Facebook.

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Two hikers encountered a female grizzly with two cubs on the Farm Cabin Trail near Pass Lake. According to CBS News, an air ambulance evacuated both victims of the attack from the area.

They were transported and treated at the University Hospital of Northern British Columbia. One victim remained in the hospital after both were admitted in stable condition.

Conservation Officer Service Program Assessment Team (PAT) specialists investigated the area and recommended that hiking in the Pass Lake area be restricted until investigations concluded.

Due to the location and nature of the incident, they determined the bear's actions were defensive and decided that "no action will be taken" against the animal.

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However, they later confirmed, through DNA analysis, that a deceased grizzly bear found in the vicinity of the original attack location was the bear involved in the attack.

Why is this encounter concerning?

Sadly, encounters like this have become far more common worldwide as rising temperatures and human activity destroy bear habitats and push wildlife closer to human settlements.

One video earlier this year captured a Florida man being attacked by bears in his front yard after he went out to confront them, an Arkansas man was attacked while working on a tractor, and a string of brown bear attacks caused a national park in Alaska to temporarily close.

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.

Urban sprawl and development have forced wildlife into urban areas, neighborhoods, and popular hiking trails with few remaining alternatives.

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All of this is exacerbated by pollution from human activity and the use of dirty energy sources, which have driven global temperatures higher and intensified extreme weather events such as wildfires, droughts, and hurricanes  events and conditions that send wildlife scrambling for any resources they can find.

What should you do during a bear encounter?

If you're heading into bear country, the Conservation Officer Service recommends staying alert and making noise regularly to avoid surprises, traveling in groups, carrying bear spray, keeping a clean camp, and respecting closures and warnings.

If you encounter or see a bear, the service recommends avoiding the area, staying calm, not running or speaking, backing away slowly, and standing your ground if the bear charges.

If the bear approaches while you're on the ground, the National Park Service advises covering your head and neck with your arms and "playing dead."

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.
Pages of history features excerpts from The News Journal archives including The Morning News and The Evening Journal. See the archives at delawareonline.com.

Nov. 16, 2000, The News Journal

Cheswold drops lawsuit against proposed asphalt plant

A lack of money prompted the Cheswold Town Council to give up its efforts to block construction of a $2.5 million asphalt plant in the middle of town.

By a 3-0 vote Wednesday, council voted not to appeal a Kent County Superior Court ruling forcing the town to grant zoning clearances for Cheswold Aggregates to obtain a building permit. The case would have gone to the state Supreme Court.

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After the meeting, the towns Board of Adjustment signed the letter authorizing Kent County to issue the permit.

Page 21 of The News Journal from Nov. 16, 2000.

Since the firm sued the town in 1999 over the zoning ruling, Councilman Jim Plummer said Cheswold has spent more than $40,000 in legal fees and still owes more than $15,000. The towns insurance company has spent more than $20,000 on the case.

I dont think any of us liked doing this, Plummer said after the meeting. But we couldnt afford to go on and we didnt think we could get the decision reversed.

But residents vowed to testify against the plant when its plans are reviewed by the state Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.

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Council was hamstrung, said Dennis Coker, of Cheswold. They had to cut their losses  but were going to keep fighting this group of investors who want to make Cheswold into a dumping ground.

In December 1998, the towns Board of Adjustment blocked Laurel-based Cheswold Aggregates plan to build the hot-mix plant in the middle of this town of about 350 people six miles north of Dover.

Cheswold Aggregates took the town to court over the issue in 1999. Earlier this month Judge Henry duPont Ridgely ruled the zoning decision blocking construction of the plant wasnt consistent with an earlier decision allowing a concrete plant to be built in town.

Recent construction news: Bayhealth plans major additions to Dover hospital and new buildings at Milford site

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Nov. 18, 1975, The Morning News

Top court backs school desegregation ruling

The U.S. Supreme Court yesterday removed one of the few remaining obstacles to a school desegregation plan which could involve busing children between Wilmington and its suburbs.

The court upheld the U.S. District Court decision of March 27 which laid the groundwork for a remedy involving the city and suburban schools.

That March decision, a 2-1 vote, stated that Wilmingtons schools were racially segregated and were kept that way by portions of the states 1968 Educational Advancement Act which the judges felt violated the U.S. Constitution.

Front page of The Morning News from Nov. 18, 1975.

Yesterdays Supreme Court ruling, from which three justices dissented, permits the U.S. District Court to continue hearings into proposed remedies. Almost of these require busing across existing district lines.

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In addition to its obvious local significance, the Supreme Court ruling should draw national attention since it shows the court is willing to consider city-suburb remedies in other cases. The courts view on this matter had been clouded since its ruling on July 25, 1974 that a metropolitan remedy would not be allowed in the Detroit desegregation case.

The Wilmington school board is a plaintiff in the case, along with the black parents who filed the suit in July 1971.

Nearly 20 plans  only a few being taken seriously  involving suburban areas now are before the District Court judges.

Wilmington city attorney David S. Swayze said, The interdistrict remedy is cemented. Id suggest that a Wilmington-only plan now couldnt pass constitutional muster.

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The favorite of the state board and suburban districts is a largely-voluntary zone transfer plan. The judges noted repeatedly during the presentation that backers of the zone transfer plan could give no firm assurances the proposal would work.

When the hearings resume Dec. 15, the state board will continue presenting a more drastic proposal  a five-district consolidation plan. The proposal merges portions of Wilmington with combinations involving nine suburban districts to create five enlarged school systems covering most of New Castle County.

In addition, the judges will have to consider two other significant proposals.

One, offered by the De La Warr School District, calls for the creation of a single county school system which would have four district attendance areas.

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Depending on the extent of the remedy the judges order, the plan could affect between 50,000 and 80,000 students, including 14,000 in Wilmington.

The city school enrollment is about 84% black. The suburban districts, aside from De La Warr and Appoquinimink, have white enrollment of at least 92.9%....

Recent school news: What do Delaware teachers think about working in public schools? Union survey shows change

Nov. 21, 1925, The Evening Journal

New school at Newark dedicated

The new Newark public school built and equipped at a cost of $280,000 was dedicated with appropriate exercises in the presence of a large crowd of residents of the town and vicinity at the school building early this afternoon. The building has been completed and occupied since early last spring but the dedication exercises were postponed until this time.

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There was some disappointment in the fact that Pierre S. duPont, from whose fund with the Delaware School Auxiliary $120,000 was given towards the building of the school, was unable to be present. Urgent business made it impossible for him to attend. ...

Front page of The Evening Journal from Nov. 21, 1925.

In addition to giving $120,000, the auxiliary also gave the plot of ground on which the school is erected and provided the architect without cost.

The district was bonded for $160,000 which was the maximum amount that could be raised in the district under the law. ...

Following the dedication exercises held in the gymnasium of the school, there were special exercises in front of the building where an American flag was presented to the school by American Flag Council No. 28, Junior Order of American Mechanics of Newark.

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The Ferris Industrial School Band was present and played The Star Spangled Banner.

Members of the senior class took part in the exercises, singing Our Delaware and America.

The high school classes moved into the new modern building in April, but there remained considerable work to be done on the school grounds and no playground for the primary school children. It is largely because of this fact that the board decided not to move the primary school children to the new building until the start of the fall term.

The grammar school remains in the building at Delaware Avenue and Academy Street. In time an additional wing will be built to the new building and it will then also take care of the grammar school.

Reach reporter Ben Mace at rmace@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: History in News Journal Nov. 16-22 with school ruling, town lawsuit
A community effort is setting the table this holiday season to help Chicago residents who are in need.

Ignite-Futures with Promise and Rock of Our Salvation Church are joining forces with Chef Ora Triest to feed the homeless community.

The annual dinner, called Home for the Holidays" aims to fill even more hearts and bellies this Thanksgiving.

"During the holidays, it's important that we come together as a community to help those who are in need," said Chef Ora. "I enjoy serving and sharing my love for cooking. This is a part of my mission as a chef and a Black woman from Chicago."

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This year's dinner, which is on Thanksgiving Day, will be at 5628 West Washington Boulevard. It's free and open to all, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meals are first come, first served.

Chef Ora visited ABC7 Chicago to talk more about this mission to give back and how others can join the effort.
One Wednesday morning, Adam Gonzalezs day started like any normal day. He got his 17-month-old son ready for day care, put him in the car and drove to a school in Chicagos Roscoe Village neighborhood. As he approached Rayito de Sol Spanish Immersion Early Learning Center, which is located in a shopping plaza, he noticed two unfamiliar cars out front. Immediately, Gonzalez felt worried, as if something might have happened  maybe it was a car accident, since he saw flashing lights. But as he cautiously got closer to the vehicles to see what was happening, he noticed that the vehicles werent police cars with blue lights. Then he saw men wearing black body armor, some masked, and his heart sank. It became clear they were Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.

As a lawyer and a volunteer with rapid-response work, Gonzalez knew how to handle the next few minutes that would unfold in front of his sons school. He said he knew not to get too involved by getting too close, but to record the incident. He knew not to antagonize, especially with his child with him, but to document as his sons teacher, Diana Patricia Santillana Galeano, was dragged out by ICE agents with her arms behind her back in front of kids, coworkers and parents during morning drop-off. In a video of the Nov. 5 event, the teacher was pushed up against a car as she was telling the agents she had papers.

I heard her yelling tengo papeles, which is Spanish for I have papers, you heard parents yelling, leave her alone, you heard staff yelling, she has papers, Gonzalez told Salon in a phone interview. You just hear her crying, and then they put her in the car.

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In September, the Department of Homeland Security announced Operation Midway Blitz as part of the Trump administrations broader immigration crackdown. Across the country, ICE agents have been deployed in multiple cities conducting heavily armed raids. Multiple videos have shown that these enforcement tactics have been aggressive. In one video, a father was arrested by immigration agents while armed officers drove away with his toddler in the car in a Home Depot parking lot in Los Angeles. Guns were drawn as agents conducted a raid on a Chicago apartment building.

After Galeano, the day care teacher, was arrested, Gonzalez said the parents were still crying, and the older kids  the 4- and 5-year-olds were asking why everyone was so sad.

It was beyond traumatic. Its been less than a week, but I still have moments where I relive what I saw, and I can hear the crying, he said. It was just a gut punch that this place that was so safe for us, that was so much a community, so much a family, and that day it was taken away from us.

In a press release, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security claimed to set the record straight, stating that ICE is not targeting schools or day care centers.

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The illegal alien female was arrested inside a vestibule, not in the school, said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin in the press release.

On Thursday, Galeano was released. The event continues to cause widespread fear among parents, children, and childcare workers in the Chicago area.

Alice Dreyden, who works at a Head Start center in Chicago, told Salon the presence of ICE in the community is affecting her workplace as well.

Weve lost several families just due to specifically not feeling safe with ICE in the area, Dreyden told Salon in a phone interview. One of my toddlers, a 15-month-old, who I got really close with, just stopped showing up one day.

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She called their home, went by to visit and see if the family was OK, but couldnt get an answer. She eventually learned the family returned to the country they came from because they didnt feel safe. Dreyden said she is seeing firsthand how the fear of ICE is affecting young children, even if they dont understand all the details of whats happening. Sometimes, she said, families are afraid to leave their homes and drop their children off at school, which can be disruptive to their routines and affect their sense of consistency and stability.

Kids pick up on all of that. They may not understand the details, but they absolutely understand that the adults are afraid and things arent safe, Dreyden said. And that is so damaging developmentally to a young child, to have to be in that kind of environment.

Dreyden added she sees the fear directly in the 2-year-olds she cares for at school.

Usually when we would walk around the neighborhood in the past, and wed see a fire truck or an ambulance, with their sirens on, the kids would wave and think it was really interesting, she said. And now some of them just kind of their eyes get wide and they dont like it, its really sad to see in someone so young, to see their little nervous systems try to jump at everything.

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According to the National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN), chronic separation from a caregiver can be very overwhelming. While it depends on the circumstances, the most traumatic part can be exposure to frightening events. Such as witnessing a parent being handcuffed, the institute says.

Dr. Carla Marie Manly, a psychologist based in California, told Salon that early childhood is an especially formative period in life, and that being exposed to hostile, aggressive, or other fear-inducing events can certainly affect them.

When a violent event occurs in school or other safe setting, the child comes to equate that once-safe space with being a source of fear, anxiety, and instability, Manly said. When a childs teacher is taken away, the child can feel abandoned, scared and unsafe.

Start your day with essential news from Salon.

Sign up for our free morning newsletter, Crash Course.

In July 2025, a study from the University of California, Riverside, stated that even the threat of separation can generate profound emotional harm for children of immigrant families.

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Erma Jackson, who has a home childcare center in Chicago, told Salon the mere presence of ICE in Chicago is absolutely affecting children and schools across the city.

They may not think about why we may be hesitant to answer the door if we dont have a camera because we dont know whos on the other end of the door, Jackson said. When they see that fear, they become afraid.

When Salon spoke to Gonzalez nearly a week after the day care raid, he said he still hadnt sent his son back to the day care. He was still trying to figure out how to move forward along with other parentsand its not just the parents of Rayito de Sol Spanish Immersion Early Learning Center.

All over Chicago, people have to make that decision every day, especially the Latino community, he said. People have to make the decision, do I go to work so I can feed my child, or do I stay at home and know Im safe? Or do I send my child to school that day and worry ICE will be outside the school?

The post ICE arrest at Chicago day care was beyond traumatic appeared first on Salon.com.
HUNTLEY, Ill. (WTVO)  Police in Huntley have arrested a man and a woman accused of having sex with a dog.

Efin Nolte, 23, and Katelyn Heiden, 27, were arrested Friday as part of a bestiality investigation that began in July, according to the Huntley Police Department.

Officials were made aware of a video showing a man engaging in sex acts with a dog, and investigators ultimately determined the video was made in Huntley by McHenry County residents.

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Nolte and Heiden were identified as suspects in the case.

On Friday, November 14th, detectives searched electronic devices belonging to the pair and said forensic evidence was found that led to the pairs arrest.

Nolte and Heiden were each charged with sexual conduct with an animal.

They were booked into the McHenry County Jail, pending the outcome of a pretrial detention hearing.

Police said the investigation was still active and 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 MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  An immigrant who was arrested after a Milwaukee judge allegedly helped him dodge federal agents has been deported.

Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, 31, pleaded guilty in September to illegally reentering the United States after he reached a deal with prosecutors. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security tweeted Friday afternoon that he has now been deported.

The tweet did not say whether he was transported back to his native Mexico or some other destination. The Associated Press sent an email message to his attorney, Martin Pruhs, seeking more details but he did not immediately respond.

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Flores-Ruiz is at the center of a case against that could end with Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan in prison.

According to court documents, Flores-Ruiz left his home in Mexico at age 18 in 2013 and sneaked into the United States. He was apprehended and deported immediately after crossing the border, but reentered the country a few days later, making his way to Milwaukee where he worked in restaurants for about 12 years.

He was charged in March with three counts of misdemeanor battery after he allegedly got into a fight with his roommate. U.S. immigration agents learned he was in the country illegally after the Milwaukee County Jail submitted his fingerprints to federal databases, according to court documents.

He was scheduled to appear at a hearing before Dugan on April 18. U.S. immigration agents planned to arrest him at the hearing but, prosecutors say, Dugan learned they were waiting for him and led him out of her courtroom through a private door. From there Flores-Ruiz made his way outside. Agents captured him after a foot chase in the streets.

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A federal grand jury indicted Dugan in May on charges of obstruction and concealing an individual to prevent arrest. She's set to stand trial beginning Dec. 15. She could face up to six years in federal prison if convicted.

"Judge Hannah Dugans actions to obstruct this violent criminals arrest take activist judge to a whole new meaning," the Department of Homeland Security said in its posting Friday. Thanks to the brave men and women of ICE law enforcement, this criminal is OUT of our country.

Dugan has denied any wrongdoing, arguing she has the right to run her courtroom the way she sees fit. Her attorneys declined to comment on Friday, but they filed briefs earlier in the day noting that Milwaukee County Chief Judge Carl Ashley sent an email to county judges about two weeks before Flores-Ruiz was arrested saying that courts must remain safe havens from immigration enforcement.

Flores-Ruiz spent most of the past seven months in jail. State prosecutors dropped two of the battery charges against him in October after he agreed to plead no contest to the third. He was sentenced to time served.

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U.S. District Judge Pamela Pepper sentenced him to time served on the illegal entry charge on Nov. 6 as per prosecutors' recommendation after he agreed to plead guilty and promised not to fight deportation.

___

This story has been updated to correct the plea that Flores-Ruiz entered to the charge of illegally reentering the U.S. He pleaded guilty, not no contest.
(This story has been updated with new information.)

The Indiana Senate will not convene in December for redistricting, stopping President Donald Trump's push to redraw the state's congressional map in its tracks.

Senate Republicans still do not have the votes to successfully pass a bill to redistrict, as Gov. Mike Braun has called for them to do, so they will simply not try, Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray announced Nov. 14.

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"Over the last several months, Senate Republicans have given very serious and thoughtful consideration to the concept of redrawing our state's congressional maps," he said. "Today, I'm announcing there are not enough votes to move that idea forward, and the Senate will not reconvene in December."

State lawmakers had planned to convene during the first two weeks of December to consider redistricting, incorporating it into their 2026 regular legislative session. Without the participation of the Senate, the Indiana General Assembly can't pass such legislation.

In response to the news, the Trump team has begun calling some Indiana lawmakers to invite them to meet with the president in the Oval Office, at a to-be-determined time and date. Sen. Aaron Freeman, R-Indianapolis, said he fielded such a call and plans to go.

"If the president of the United States invites somebody to come to the Oval Office, in Aaron Freeman's book, I'm going," he said. He's not yet made up his mind about redistricting because he said he hasn't seen a map.

In a Nov. 14 statement, Braun expressed dismay at Senate Republicans' decision.

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I called for our legislators to convene to ensure Hoosiers voices in Washington, DC are not diluted by the Democrats gerrymandering," he said. "Our state senators need to do the right thing and show up to vote for fair maps. Hoosiers deserve to know where their elected officials stand on important issues.

It's unusual for lawmakers not to heed a governor's call for a special session. Freeman said he thinks it's wrong, and said he plans to show up Dec. 1 regardless.

Trump has been waging the redistricting campaign in an effort to shore up the Republican majority in Congress ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, despite the tradition of redistricting directly after a decennial census. Indiana's current congressional map has seven seats held by Republicans and two by Democrats; the push from the White House was to draw a new map that would favor Republicans in all nine districts.

For Indiana's supermajority Republican legislature to reject Trump's push is extraordinary, given Trump has found success in at least three other states where Republicans have slimmer majorities: Texas, Missouri and North Carolina. Though efforts in some other states, like Kansas and Nebraska, have stalled.

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With the Indiana House Republican caucus already on board, and assuming all Democrats would vote no, the Senate Republicans needed 25 "yes" votes to make redistricting happen. There are 40 Republican senators.

Counting the vote has been a largely closed-door process, with only a portion of Republican senators ever making their position clear publicly. By IndyStar's count, 13 senators have indicated their support for it, eight made clear their opposition, another eight hadn't decided, and 11 said nothing. Three of the opposing senators announced their position in the past week.

There's been a consistent pressure campaign for months, mainly from outsiders. Vice President JD Vance visited the Indiana Statehouse twice to hold private conversations. Voters in some senate districts have received phone calls or texts from little-known 501c4 organizations. D.C.-based advocacy organization Club for Growth bought television ads in the Indianapolis market this week; a new group called Fair Maps Indiana, featuring former Trump campaign veterans, also launched a voter outreach campaign.

'We're going to spend what it takes': Outsiders pump money into Indiana redistricting fight

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U.S. Rep. Andre Carson, whose 7th Congressional District would have been carved up, attributed this decision to Indiana's traditionally independent streak.

"Prayer, people, and partnerships power change. Hoosiers do things differently. Were about collaboration, not division," he said in a statement. "Were about independent thinking  not taking orders from Washington. I want to thank Senator Bray and all the Republican and Democratic members of the Indiana Statehouse who held firm on Hoosier values. This is a win for all of us." It's unclear whether the Indiana House will still convene Dec. 1. House Speaker Todd Huston did not immediately return a request for comment. Organization Day, the ceremonial beginning of the 2026 legislative session, is on Nov. 18.

Contact IndyStar Statehouse reporter Kayla Dwyer at kdwyer@indystar.com or follow her on X@kayla_dwyer17.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana Senate won't meet to redistrict, stopping Trump's Indiana push
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Loring has deep roots in Germanic and English history, originally derived from the Old German personal name 'Lothar' meaning 'famous army' or 'renowned warrior.' It emerged as a surname in medieval England and Germany, often borne by families of military distinction or noble lineage. Throughout European history, the name has been associated with families who held lands and titles, particularly in regions with strong Germanic influence. The name carries connotations of military honor, leadership, and ancestral pride, reflecting the warrior traditions of Germanic tribes who valued battlefield prowess and family legacy.



In American history, the name gained prominence through early settlers and military figures who helped shape the nation's development. Many Lorings served in the American Revolution and Civil War, continuing the martial traditions associated with the name. The establishment of places like Loring Air Force Base further cemented the name's connection to military service and national defense. Today, the name continues to represent a bridge between Old World heritage and New World opportunity, maintaining its association with strength, honor, and enduring family values across generations.
Hannity with Sean Hannity to discuss the reopening of the government and other matters. Last night, Vice President JD Vance gave an exclusive interview on Fox News'with Sean Hannity to discuss the reopening of the government and other matters.

Once the interview aired, people on Twitter (now known as X) started circulating a clip, calling out what JD Vance said about the housing crisis.

JD Vance: "A lot of young people are saying housing is way too expensive. Why is that? Because we flooded the country with 30 million illegal immigrants who were taking houses that ought by right go to American citizens."What is he talking about? pic.twitter.com/4iwe8GgqYA  Lucas Sanders  (@LucasSa56947288) November 13, 2025

Twitter: @LucasSa56947288

He says, "A lot of young people are saying housing is way too expensive. Why is that? Because we flooded the country with 30 million illegal immigrants who were taking houses that ought by right go to American citizens. And at the same time, we weren't building enough new houses to begin with, even with the population that we have."

Related: A Video Of Kristi Noem Blaming Democrats For Flight Delays Is Being Played At Airports, And Everyone Is Creeped Out

Let's just say they were bewildered by the duality of what he was saying...

Honestly amazing how every illegal immigrant is simultaneously a destitute ward of the state AND fully approved for 30 year mortgages and soaking up all the quarter million dollar housing stock. https://t.co/RC3jCAQtBd  Joe Patrice (@JosephPatrice) November 13, 2025

Twitter: @JosephPatrice

Aside from that, though, people also noticed something about JD Vance's face:

what happened to his face? https://t.co/gY8BbKrPZG  Jose (@josecanyousee) November 13, 2025

Twitter: @josecanyousee

Related: "Oh My God": People Are Not Holding Back AT ALL After Trump Made Another White House "Upgrade," And Hoo Boy, You Gotta See This One

His face literally isnt moving. Botox overload. https://t.co/zXbJj9MURf  Geechi  (@Geechi_Luciano) November 14, 2025

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Twitter: @Geechi_Luciano

He looks like hes wearing a flesh colored Batman mask  Hutch (@hutchinson) November 13, 2025

Twitter: @hutchinson

Oh my god hes slowly making himself more orange bahahahahahahah https://t.co/VidMj2mJcL  Max  (@MaxMaaxMaaax) November 14, 2025

Twitter: @MaxMaaxMaaax

Related: Donald Trump Hated His Time Magazine Cover... But He'll Probably Hate These 16 Photos Wayyyyyyyyyyyy More

For research purposes, here are some screenshots of JD Vance from past interviews. Like this one from 2023 with Face the Nation

Face the Nation / Via youtube.com

Here's an image from a 2024 interview with CNN:

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The Ingraham Angle: And finally, here's a picture from a Fox News interview he did a month ago with

Fox News / Via youtube.com

Related: Mike Johnson Just Got Completely Destroyed By A Furious GOP Voter About The Government Shutdown On Live TV, And The Video Is Brutal

And for a refresher, here's an image from the Hannity interview he did yesterday:

Fox News / Via youtube.com

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.

And if you want to watch the full interview, check it out here.

We don't make the rules, but if you can't get at least 5/10 right on our weekly news quiz, you're officially out of touch. Take the quiz to put your knowledge to the test

Also in In the News: Trump Accidentally Burned Himself With His Own Question, And People Cannot Stop Laughing

Also in In the News: Karoline Leavitts Unbelievable New Claim About Trump Has Already Backfired, And The Internet Is Having A Field Day With It

Also in In the News: A Clip Of Donald Trump Getting Angry After Being Fact-Checked Is Going Mega Viral, And It Sums Up His Entire Presidency In A Nutshell

Read it on BuzzFeed.com
Nov. 15 (UPI) -- Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed Saturday that it has seized a fuel tanker bound for Singapore from the United Arab Emirates.

The IRGC Navy said in a statement the Talara was carrying 30,000 tons of petrochemicals and had been monitoring it after a court ordered the ship's seizure on Friday morning, according to IRNA, Iran's official government news agency.

The "unauthorized cargo" -- high-sulphur gas oil, which is used to fuel ships and other marine vessels -- led three small surface vessels to intercept the Talara has it sailed south through the Strait of Hormuz, Al Jazeera and the BBC reported.

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"This operation was carried out successfully in accordance with legal duties and for the purpose of safeguarding the national interests and resources of the Islamic Republic of Iran and under the orders of judicial authorities," the IRGC Navy said.

Talara's Cyprus-based owner, Columbia Shipmanagement Ltd. operates the tanker, and its cargo and that it has lost contact with the vessel, according to Al Jazeera.

The Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy has confirmed the seizure of the violating oil tanker in the Sea of Oman. The IRGC announced that the oil tanker Talara was seized to protect the interests and resources of the Iranian nation. According to the IRGC Navy's public... pic.twitter.com/nZNoJ3oakF IRNA News Agency (@IrnaEnglish) November 15, 2025

U.S. Central Command officials on Friday said they are aware of the ship's seizure and are "actively monitoring" the matter, the New York Times reported.

"Commercial vessels are entitled to largely unimpeded rights of navigation," the Central Command officials added.

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Iran has seized other tankers while often accusing them of carrying illicit cargo, intruding in Iranian waters or in retaliation for the seizure of an Iranian vessel.

Iranian officials have threatened to close shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, which is a narrow strait extending for 90 miles and connecting the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf.

A fourth of the world's oil and a fifth of its liquefied natural gas are shipped through the waterway.

The U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet patrols the area to help protect commercial shipping.
The ship, a Marshall Islands-flagged tanker named Talara, is not the first ship the IRGC has hijacked, but it had stepped back from such threats recently.

Iran has taken credit for seizing a ship on Friday that was off the coast of the UAE near the Strait of Hormuz.

Irans Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy has seized an oil tanker off the southern coast of Makran under a judicial order over violations by the vessel, Iranian state media IRNA said, revealing details about the takeover.

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The IRGC Navy had monitored the ship, which was a Marshall Islands-flagged tanker named Talara.

The IRGC has its own naval vessels, mostly small fast boats. The relatively small Iranian navy has several other larger ships. The IRGC is often involved in Irans naval actions in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. It has hijacked many vessels in the past. It increased those operations back in 2019, confiscating several ships.

However, Iran has appeared to step back from these threats recently.

Iranian Navy ships on a training exercise (credit: Wikimedia Commons)

What do we know about the Iranian decision to redirect this ship toward Iranian waters?

The IRGC Navy said the operation was carried out in line with legal duties and to protect the national interests and resources of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

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The IRGC sent vessels to follow the Talara in the first hours of Friday after [an Iranian] court ordered the seizure of the vessel.

Tehran claimed that the ship was carrying unauthorized cargo. Iranian media said the vessel was loaded with 30,000 tons of petrochemical materials. It was on course for Singapore.

According to other reports, the ship suddenly changed course on Friday. It was then directed into Iranian waters. Several small boats, apparently from the IRGC, were seen with it.

Ynet noted that Cyprus-based Columbia Shipmanagement, which operates the vessel, said it had lost contact with the tanker, which was reportedly transporting high-sulfur gas oil.

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British maritime security firm Ambrey, which first reported the unusual incident, said it occurred about 40 kilometers off the UAE coast.

Meanwhile, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) had also alerted about the ship being deviated from its course.

Ynet added that while tensions eased slightly after a ceasefire in Gaza, incidents have continued. Just last month, a tanker allegedly carrying Iranian cargo to the Houthis and linked to Irans so-called shadow fleet was attacked in the Gulf of Aden. Israel and the Houthis both denied involvement.

Al-Ain media in the UAE noted that, according to Ambrey, three small boats approached it [the tanker] as it crossed the Strait of Hormuz heading south.

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The report noted that the ship was directed toward Iran around 7 a.m. On Friday, the US Navys Fifth Fleet, which oversees the region, said, We are aware of the incident involving the Marshall Islands-flagged vessel Talara, the report added.

America was monitoring the situation. The Al-Ain report noted that last year, the Revolutionary Guard seized a container ship, accusing its operator of having links with Israel.

It is not clear what will come next. Tehran may try to make a show of its capabilities to continue seizing or diverting ships toward Iranian waters. Irans goal is to show it still has the power to project its naval capabilities in the region. Iran suffered a setback earlier this year in a 12-day conflict with Israel.

Irans actions come as it has also spoken out about Iraqs elections, the conflict in Sudan, and tensions in the Caribbean.

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Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei has warned about the dangerous consequences of US military activities in the Caribbean and Latin America for international peace and security, the IRNA noted.

This means Iran may be seeking to warn the US and the West that it is willing to create a crisis in the Persian Gulf or the Gulf of Oman.

Irans decision to confirm seizing the tanker shows that it is trying to make this seem like a legal case. Tehran often uses the pretense of legality to justify its actions, even when those actions are clearly a form of piracy.

The Iranian regime tries to make it seem like Tehran complies with international law. Iran has friendly relations with countries in the Gulf, particularly Qatar, Oman, and Iraq. It also backs the Houthis in Yemen.
The suspect is a Netivot resident in his twenties who arrived in Israel on a direct flight from Rome, Italy, on a foreign airline.

Police stopped an attempt to smuggle over 100 pistols into Israel this week at Ben-Gurion Airport, a police spokesperson said.

The pistols were confiscated by the Israel Police unit.

One suspect in the smuggling attempt was arrested, and police have submitted a court request to have his detention extended.

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The suspect is a Netivot resident in his twenties, according to the police statement. He arrived in Israel on a direct flight from Rome, Italy, on a foreign airline.

Police detectives monitored the suspect upon his arrival at the airport, the police spokesperson said, and observed his movements from passport control to luggage retrieval. At that point, he was detained by Ben-Gurion Airport Police Unit 747.

A Ryanair flight lands at Ben-Gurion Airport, March 31, 2025. (credit: YOSSI ALONI/FLASH90)

Police arrest suspect in smuggling case at Ben-Gurion Airport

The disassembled pistols were discovered in the suspect's luggage and then transferred to the Israel Police's forensic identification laboratories for further investigation, evidence collection, and destruction.

A smuggling attempt is considered a serious offense that can be punishable by up to 5 years in prison, the police spokesperson added.

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Earlier this week, Unit 747 also thwarted a drug smuggling attempt, confiscating materials worth NIS 6 million.

A resident from Beit Shemesh in his thirties was arrested in connection with the drug smuggling, which was an attempt to move 18 kg of the drug MDMA. The suspect was on a return flight to Israel from Prague.
I keep a picture of Katie in my wallet, I think about her every long ride, almost every ride I go on, Teresa said Saturday.

Teresa is just one of many and has been hit by a car herself, left with a broken leg and her own trauma.

According to data provided by the pedestrian safety organization Bike Walk Jax, 471 people have lost their lives to traffic crashes in Jacksonville between 2022 and 2024.

In fact, Jacksonville was ranked in the top-15 most dangerous cities nationwide for pedestrians in 2024, as reported in Smart Growth Americas biannual Dangerous by Design report.

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I ride my bike every day, I commute to work, I rode here from St. Augustine to be here, and I am constantly seeing people on their phones or not paying attention, Rose added.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

Saturday morning for World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, loved ones of those who have lost their lives to traffic fatalities in Duval County spoke alongside city leaders to keep the names alive of their loved ones.

However, loved ones of those lost also demanded change from a city they say still has a lot of work to do in roadway and pedestrian safety.

Im working with the state of Florida to make sure that we have Beaver Street potentially as a protected bike lane, Liberty Street is a bike lane now, we need to make that a protected bike lane, Jacksonville city councilman Jimmy Peluso reassured at Saturdays event. This is what we need to be doing to make sure families feel comfortable. Thats of paramount importance.

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Peluso also added that hes discussed with city officials the idea of adding more speeding cameras to school zones across the city.

I think a lot of people are intrigued by it, Peluso acknowledged. And if its a way to make sure we slow down traffic by our schools, that is paramount.

Peluso did say, however, the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office is still working through funding logistics for any possible speeding camera expansions.

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Jailed Tunisian opposition figure Jawhar Ben Mbarek has been hospitalised due to severe dehydration, his family has said, as his health continues to deteriorate after more than two weeks on hunger strike.

Ben Mbarek, the cofounder of Tunisias main opposition alliance, the National Salvation Front, started his hunger strike on October 29 to protest his detention in jail since February 2023.

In a Facebook post on Friday, Ben Mbareks sister, Dalila Ben Mbarek Msaddek, warned that her brothers health had now severely deteriorated and doctors detected a highly dangerous toxin affecting his kidneys.

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Msaddek said Ben Mbarek had received treatment but refused nutritional supplements at the hospital where he was transferred on Thursday night, insisting on continuing his now 17-day protest.

The politician was discharged from hospital on Friday afternoon and returned to prison, Msaddek added.

On Wednesday, Ben Mbareks lawyer Hanen Khmiri said he had faced torture at the hands of guards at Belli prison, as they attempted to force him to end his protest.

He was severely beaten, we saw fractures and bruises on his body, Khmiri said, adding that she had filed a complaint with the public prosecutor, who promised to investigate.

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He told me that four of the prison guards beat him severely in a place where there is no surveillance camera, she said.

Ben Mbarek is one of the most prominent opponents of Tunisian strongman President Kais Saied, who has been in power since 2019.

In April, he was sentenced to 18 years in prison on charges of conspiracy against state security and belonging to a terrorist group, in a mass trial of opposition figures slammed by human rights groups as politically motivated.

Jawhar Ben Mbarek, a member of the Citizens Against Coup campaign, gestures during a demonstration against President Kais Saied in 2021 in the capital Tunis [File: Fethi Belaid/AFP]

Ben Mbarek has denied the charges, which he has called fabricated.

Rights groups have warned of a sharp decline in civil liberties in Tunisia since a sweeping power grab by Saied in July 2021, when he dissolved parliament and expanded executive power so he could rule by decree.

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That decree was later enshrined in a new constitution, ratified by a widely boycotted 2022 referendum. Media figures and lawyers critical of Saied have also been prosecuted and detained under a harsh fake news law enacted the same year.

Last week, Ben Mbareks family and prominent members of Tunisias political opposition announced they would join him in a collective hunger strike.

Among the participants was Issam Chebbi, the leader of the centrist Al Joumhouri (Republican) Party, who is also behind bars after being convicted in the same mass trial as Ben Mbarek earlier this year.

Rached Ghannouchi, the 84-year-old leader of the Ennahdha party, who is also serving a hefty prison sentence, also said he would join the protest. Chebbi and Ghannouchis current condition is not known.

Prison authorities have maintained the men are under continuous medical supervision and denied rumours about the deterioration in the health of any detainees.




Democratic strategist James Carville roasted Sen. John Fetterman (R-PA) after Fox News Kayleigh McEnany claimed the senator is the single smartest guy in Carvilles party.

Carville joined McEnany on Saturday in America where he offered criticism for his own party, including the streamlined process to replace former President Joe Biden on the 2024 with former Vice President Kamala Harris.

McEnany asked at one point who Carville saw as potential 2028 candidates for his party.

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If I name three people, two people are gonna call me and say you didnt put it on the list. But but there is a a wealth of talent. Some of it is known. I mean, [Gavin] Newsom the big mistake we made is not having a contested primary. If you remember on July 7th in The New York Times, I said there should be four town halls and we just, the Harris people shut it down. She had no opportunity to show us what she could do, Carville said.

After longtime Democratic strategist offered up one of his own partys mistakes, McEnany then offered another: not listening to Fetterman.

Can I tell you another huge mistake of your party? Not listening to Senator John Fetterman. That is the single smartest guy you have in your party. He doesnt hate. He says it like it is, McEnany said.

If John Fetterman is the smartest person in the Democratic party, the Democratic Party is in really, really, really deep trouble. Really deep trouble! Carville said, laughing.

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McEnany suggested the centrist Democrat come join the big tent of the Republican Party. Carville offered praise for a different Democrat from the same state, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro (D).

If I want to listen to somebody from Pennsylvania Democratic Party, I will listen to Gov. Josh Shapiro every day, seven days a week, Carville said.

Watch above via Fox News.

The post James Carville Hits Back at Fox News Hosts Pick for Smartest Democrat first appeared on Mediaite.
Nov. 14JAMESTOWN  Two Jamestown women are facing felony child abuse charges for incidents that allegedly happened at Buffalo City Lil' Explorers Daycare, according to court documents.

Karen "Kay" Lynn Schempp, 42, owner of Buffalo City Lil' Explorers Daycare, and Kaylee Lynn Cumber, 33, each face formal charges of two counts of abuse of child, Class B felonies.

Schempp and Cumber are scheduled to make their initial appearances on Dec. 3.

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Schempp and Cumber are each accused of being a person who provides care, supervision, education or guidance for a child unaccompanied by the child's parent, adult family or household member, guardian or custodian in exchange for money, goods or other services and while providing services inflicted or allowed to be inflicted on the child mental or bodily injury on April 17 and April 24.

A Class B felony is punishable by 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine. The mandatory minimum sentence is one year in prison.

Court documents say a Jamestown Police Department officer was assigned to investigate a child abuse/neglect case on April 23 after he learned that officers took a report of child abuse/neglect on April 22 at Jamestown Regional Medical Center. Court documents say Schempp was at the emergency room with an 8-year-old child for a head contusion that she reported was caused by another Buffalo City Lil' Explorers Daycare employee, Amber Zinck, on April 4.

On April 24, court documents say that Zinck told a Jamestown Police Department detective and family service specialist with Buffalo Bridges Human Service Zone that she was playing a game with the child where she pulls the leg while the child lies on the floor and the child was laughing and never hit or bumped his or her head while in Zinck's presence. Zinck said she believes the story that Schempp told was contrived and retaliatory for comments made about Schempp's husband. Zinck told the detective and family service specialist about numerous questionable business practices that she observed while working at Lil' Explorer's Daycare.

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Court documents say Zinck said she witnessed Schempp hit a child in the mouth and lied to the child's parents by telling them the child fell. Zinck also said Schempp made comments about deleting video surveillance footage when a known day care licensing inspection was about to happen and also witnessed Schempp deleting footage.

Court documents say Zinck said Schempp gave all children melatonin after lunch so they would sleep during nap time. Zinck also said Schempp and Cumber mistreated children by calling them derogatory names, rough handling, force feeding and other inappropriate behavior such as leaving an infant in a room alone with no supervision.

On April 25, a licensing inspection was conducted at the day care facility and a search warrant was authorized to seize the video surveillance system.

Court documents say the video footage from April 17 shows Cumber dragging a child by the arm to the kitchen and slapping the child in the face with Schempp present but engaged on her phone without much reaction to the incident. Court documents say Cumber's slap was loud enough to be heard on the video.

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Court documents say video footage showed children being left alone with an employee who is not allowed to be left alone with children, incidents of Schempp and Cumber on their phones and not paying attention to the children, and Cumber being mad at children for not eating. Court documents say video footage also showed a child having food forcefully removed from her mouth on two occasions with one instance of getting lightly slapped in the mouth by Cumber on April 24.

During the inspection, a 6-year-old child was asked about melatonin and said Schemp gives children "treats after lunch" and pointed to the bottle of "treats," which was Vicks ZZZQuil Pure Zzzs melatonin gummies, court documents say.

During an interview with Schempp, she admitted to slapping her own child in the face but said she does not hit the other children, court documents say. She said she occasionally left the children unattended while talking with other staff but only for a few minutes. Schempp also said she gave her child melatonin but denied giving it to other children and did not seem to know the melatonin was at the day care. Schempp also denied deleting video surveillance footage.

During an interview with Cumber, she said she sometimes had to be "rough" at seating children down but denied "slamming them in their seats" or any other rough handling, court documents say. Cumber also denied force-feeding the children.

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Court documents say a day care licensing specialist with the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services submitted license revocation paperwork prior to the visit on April 25 and Schempp voluntarily surrendered her day care license. Buffalo City Lil' Explorers Daycare was shut down on April 25.

Court documents say a final report from the Buffalo Bridges Human Service Zone confirmed the finding of neglect against Schempp and Cumber, and both will be placed on the Child Abuse and Neglect Index for three years.
Japan is ramping up its response to a record number of deadly bear attacks, local media reported on Saturday.

Facing an acute shortage of experienced hunters, the government has decided to encourage retired police officers and former soldiers to obtain hunting licences, the newspaper Asahi Shimbun reported.

The move comes after Japan eased its strict firearms laws to allow police officers to use rifles on bears.

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According to the Environment Ministry, 13 people have been killed by bears nationwide since April - the highest number ever recorded. Dozens more have been injured.

Encounters between bears and humans have been rising for years. Experts point to the abandonment of farmland and the depopulation of rural areas as Japan's population shrinks and ages.

Another reason hungry bears are increasingly venturing into residential areas, they say, is a lack of food in mountain forests. Beech nuts, a key food source, have become scarce, likely also due to climate change.

Most attacks have been reported in the northern prefectures of Iwate and Akita. The situation has become so serious that Akita Governor Kenta Suzuki recently visited the Defence Ministry in Tokyo to request military support.

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Troops are now helping local authorities set up live traps and remove and dispose of bears that have been killed. The soldiers themselves do not shoot the animals.

"People's lives and livelihoods are at risk," Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said. The government plans to provide additional funding for hunters, whose numbers are declining and whose average age continues to rise.

Large populations of Asiatic black bears, or moon bears, live in the forested mountains of Honshu, Japan's main island. Officials in Akita estimate several thousand animals in that prefecture alone.

Thousands of brown bears also inhabit the northernmost island of Hokkaido.
Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania revealed that he received 20 stitches following a fall near his home two days ago, prompted by what his office described as a flare-up stemming from a cardiac-related issue.

The senator appeared to be in good spirits as he shared a photo of his injuries with a smile Saturday afternoon in a social media post.

His spokesperson previously revealed that the Democratic senator had a ventricular fibrillation flare-up, which caused him to feel lightheaded and fall to the ground.

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Fetterman, 56, said that he had been discharged Saturday from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and was happy to be home with his wife and children.

20 stitches later and a full recovery, Im back home with [Gisele Fetterman] and the kids, Fetterman said. Im overwhelmed [and] profoundly grateful for all the well-wishes.

Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman revealed that he received 20 stitches following a fall near his home two days ago, prompted by a flare-up of a cardiac-related issue (@SenFettermanPA/X)

He added that he is grateful for the UPMC staff and incredible medical care that put me back together.

On Thursday, Fettermans spokesperson said the senator was taking an early morning walk when he fell near his home in Braddock.

Out of an abundance of caution, he was transported to a hospital in Pittsburgh, the statement said. Upon evaluation, it was established he had a ventricular fibrillation flare-up that led to Senator Fetterman feeling light-headed, falling to the ground and hitting his face with minor injuries.

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Adding some light relief, Fetterman was quoted by the spokesperson: If you thought my face looked bad before, wait until you see it now!

Fetterman was one of eight Senate Democrats to vote with Republicans and end the longest government shutdown in history last week (AP)

Fetterman was one of eight Senate Democrats to vote with Republicans on a temporary funding bill that ended the longest government shutdown in history last week.

Most of his followers wished him a speedy recovery, but a handful took the opportunity to accuse him of voting to take away healthcare from millions of Americans.

Democratic members of Congress were pushing for an extension of COVID-19 pandemic-era tax credits for the Affordable Care Acts health insurance marketplaces as part of a reopening deal, but the provisions were not included in the legislation.

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Fetterman has faced several health problems in recent years, including a stroke he suffered in 2022 while campaigning for his Senate seat.

He was open about the struggle with his mental health during the recovery and was treated for clinical depression in 2023 at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The MacGillivray name holds deep significance in Scottish Highland history, particularly associated with Clan MacGillivray, a sept of Clan Chattan. Originating from the Gaelic 'Mac Gillebhrath' meaning 'son of the servant of judgment,' the name reflects the clan's historical role in the Scottish judicial and social systems. The MacGillivrays were prominent in the Lochaber region before settling in Strathnairn, and they played crucial roles in the Jacobite uprisings, particularly at the Battle of Culloden in 1746 where their chief and many clansmen fell fighting for Bonnie Prince Charlie.



The clan's legacy extends beyond Scotland through diaspora communities in Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. In Canada, MacGillivrays were instrumental in the fur trade and early settlement, while in the United States, they contributed to frontier development. The name represents a proud Highland heritage, embodying the resilience of Scottish clans through periods of political turmoil, the Highland Clearances, and cultural preservation. Today, Clan MacGillivray maintains active societies worldwide that celebrate Scottish traditions and genealogy.
Two Hardin County residents have been charged with a Class C felony for misusing funds and misrepresenting their work with the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.

Attorney General Russell Coleman secured a civil court order closing C & P Garage at 1182 Jones St. in Radcliff in August "for taking advantage of Kentucky veterans," according to a press release from the Kentucky Attorney Generals office. In connection with that case, Carlos Fernandez, 65, and Patricia Parrott, 60, both of Radcliff, have been charged with one count of theft by unlawful taking, greater than $10,000 and less than $1 million.

The charges in an indictment are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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The Attorney Generals Department of Criminal Investigations investigated the case.

Executive Director of the Attorney Generals Special Prosecutions Unit Tim Cocanougher and Assistant Attorney General Jennifer Hall will prosecute the case.

The Attorney Generals Office of Consumer Protection secured the court order in a separate civil case to temporarily shut down the organization.

Reach reporter Maggie Menderski at mmenderski@courier-journal.com.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Hardin County business accused of misusing funds Veteran Affairs funds
ATLANTA (AP)  The fate of the Georgia election interference case against President Donald Trump and others is now in the hands of a new prosecutor who has to decide how he is going to move forward with the sprawling indictment.

After courts removed Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis over an appearance of impropriety created by a romantic relationship with the special prosecutor she had chosen to lead the case, it was up to the Prosecuting Attorneys' Council to someone to take over. Council Executive Director Pete Skandalakis said Friday that he would handle the case himself after he was unable to find anyone else willing to do it.

The indictment against Trump and 18 others was returned by a grand jury in August 2023 and uses the states anti-racketeering law to allege a wide-ranging conspiracy to illegally overturn Trumps narrow loss to Democrat Joe Biden in Georgia.

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Here are some things to know about Skandalakis and what might come next for this prosecution.

How did Skandalakis end up with this case?

When a prosecutor recuses or is removed from a case in Georgia, the executive director of the nonpartisan Prosecuting Attorneys' Council steps in to appoint a substitute prosecutor. Skandalakis, who has led the agency since January 2018, said in an e-mailed statement that he contacted several prosecutors about taking over the election interference case and they all declined.

The judge overseeing the case had said that if a new prosecutor wasn't appointed by Friday, he would dismiss the case. Skandalakis said that while he could easily have let the judge's deadline pass without appointing anyone and allowed the case to be dismissed, he did not believe that to be the right course of action.

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He acknowledged that he had not had a chance to fully review the case, having only recently received from Willis' office 101 boxes of documents and an eight-terabyte hard drive with the full investigative file. Appointing himself to the case, he said, will allow me to complete a comprehensive review and make an informed decision regarding how best to proceed.

Prior to his time at the council, Skandalakis spent about 25 years as the elected Republican district attorney for the Coweta Judicial Circuit, southwest of Atlanta. But former Gwinnett County District Attorney Danny Porter, who has known Skandalakis for more than 40 years, said they shared a philosophy that the district attorney's office should be nonpartisan.

I wouldnt put too much weight on the fact that he ran as a Republican, Porter said. I feel certain that hes going to do what he said hes going to do and give it a fair and transparent review and come to conclusions based on the law and the facts.

Skandalakis is no stranger to sensitive high-profile cases. He took on the investigation into the June 2020 shooting death of Rayshard Brooks, a Black man, by a white police officer after Willis recused her office from the case. He ultimately decided that the two officers involved had acted reasonably, and he declined to pursue charges.

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What happens next?

Skandalakis will continue to review the case file to decide how he wants to proceed. The judge has set a Dec. 1 status hearing and said the prosecution should be prepared to say at that time whether it intends to seek a new indictment in the case.

Skandalakis has declined to comment beyond the statement he released Friday. But Porter, who has served as a substitute prosecutor, said the first step is generally to get the case filed, which Skandalakis has done. Then, Porter said, it is not improper to have a discussion with the removed prosecutor about their summary of the case, but that should be the last contact between the two prosecution teams about the case.

Then the substitute prosecutor would start from scratch, figuring out how the case is organized, determining the budget and resources needed to handle it and figuring out how to handle it.

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The size of this case makes all that a nearly impossible task for one person to do, Porter said. While Skandalakis has a great staff with some really talented prosecutors, they all have other cases on their plates.

The Prosecuting Attorneys' Council has a tight budget, and the state legislature is dominated by Republicans, many loyal to Trump, who are unlikely to grant any special appropriations for this prosecution. But Skandalakis could look for money elsewhere to hire contract attorneys and cover other expenses, Porter said.

Then Skandalakis will have to decide whether he wants to continue on the course that Willis had charted, pursue only some of the charges or dismiss the case.

I think the case as it's indicted is completely untryable, Porter said, adding that he would try to slim it down, either by seeking a new indictment or asking the judge to sever some counts to break it down into smaller cases, Porter said.

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What is in the indictment?

The indictment includes charges related to a Jan. 2, 2021, phone call between Trump and Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger during which Trump urged the states top elections official to help him find the votes he needed to win. Other charges have to do with a getting a slate of Republican electors to falsely declare that Trump won the state, allegations of harassment of a Georgia election worker and a breach of election equipment in a rural south Georgia county.

Four of the 19 people charged pleaded guilty after reaching deals with prosecutors in the months following their indictment. Trump and the other 14 people charged have all pleaded not guilty. It seems unlikely that any action against Trump could proceed while he is in office, but the others do not have that shield.
President Donald Trump said he knows nothing about recently released comments made by Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier who committed suicide while facing sex trafficking charges.

The newly-public email says Trump knew about the girls.

Asked by reporters Nov. 14 aboard Air Force One what Epstein meant by the comment, Trump said I know nothing about that.

Trump also said he hasnt thought about pardoning Ghislaine Maxwell, the Epstein associate serving 20 years in prison after being convicted on five counts related to sex trafficking.

The "Best Friends Forever" statue featuring President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein is on display in front of Busboys and Poets cafe 14th & V in Washington, D.C.. It was previously put up, then taken down, then put up again on the National Mall. Damage to statue of Donald Trump of Jeffrey Epsten holding hands after being removed from the National Park Service ahead of the end of its permit. The statue was a tongue-in-cheek reference to Trump's once close friendship with the late sex offender. Damage to statue of Donald Trump of Jeffrey Epsten holding hands after being removed from the National Park Service ahead of the end of its permit. The statue was a tongue-in-cheek reference to Trump's once close friendship with the late sex offender. Damage to statue of Donald Trump of Jeffrey Epsten holding hands after being removed from the National Park Service ahead of the end of its permit. The statue was a tongue-in-cheek reference to Trump's once close friendship with the late sex offender. A statue depicting President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." A statue depicting President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." A statue of President Donald Trump and the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was unveiled Sept. 23, 2025 on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." It's the Secret Handshake Project's third such anti-Trump installation since June 2025. A statue of President Donald Trump and the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was unveiled Sept. 23, 2025, on the National Mall in Washington, DC. It's the Secret Handshake's third such anti-Trump installation since June. A statue depicting President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." A statue depicting President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." A statue depicting U.S. President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." A statue depicting U.S. President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." A statue depicting U.S. President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on September 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." A statue depicting President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. A plaque below the figures states "In Honor of Friendship Month." Trump, Epstein hold hands in sculpture on National Mall 'In Honor of Friendship Month' 1 of 14 The "Best Friends Forever" statue featuring President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein is on display in front of Busboys and Poets cafe 14th & V in Washington, D.C.. It was previously put up, then taken down, then put up again on the National Mall.

I dont rule it in or out, I dont even think about it, Trump said.

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Democrats in the House released emails this week that show Epstein discussing Trump, including one that said Trump spent hours at my house with a victim. The emails have reignited the controversy around the Epstein case, which has dogged Trump during his second term.

The Trump administrations decision not to release more Epstein documents has prompted backlash, and a push by Congress to get the records. A petition aimed at releasing all of the Epstein documents garnered enough signatures this week to force a vote on the issue in the House.

Responding to a question about reports that he lobbied Republican lawmakers to withdraw their signatures from the petition, Trump said We think its bad to talk about (Epstein) because it gets away from the subject of how well the Republicans are doing.

They want to waste peoples time, and some of the dumber Republicans like that, Trump added.

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Epsteins 2019 federal indictment alleged he "sexually exploited and abused dozens of minor girls at his homes" in Manhattan and Palm Beach, and at other locations. Epstein paid some of his victims to recruit more underage girls, according to the indictment. He was facing up to 45 years in prison when he killed himself.

Trump responded to the release of the emails this week by asking the Justice Department and the FBI to investigate Democrats linked to Epstein, including former President Bill Clinton. Attorney General Pam Bondi said she was initiating a probe.

Im the chief law enforcement officer of the country, Trump said of requesting the investigation. Not that I want to use that, but I am the chief law enforcement agent in the country, and Im allowed to do it.

Contributing: Francesca Chambers, USA TODAY

(This story was updated to add a video.)

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump responds to Epstein email saying 'he knew about the girls'
For the boatload of migrants from Sudan and Eritrea, the promised land of Europe seemed near. After a gruelling three-day voyage across the Mediterranean from Libya, they were finally nearing Crete, and a coastguard vessel was coming to pick them up. As they clambered aboard, exhausted and dehydrated, one man beamed at a waiting TV crew.

Thank you very much for helping us here, he said. Only then did the joy turn to despair as it was explained to the 46 men that the coastguard was not from Greece but Libya. Please dont take us back, begged one man, as the vessel sailed them back to a Libyan detention centre. Throw me in the water, every time.

Filmed by a Sky News crew for a searing new documentary  Europes Migration Crisis: How East Libya Became the People Smuggling Frontline  this may look to some viewers like just the kind of tough action needed to deter the migrants. Many will, after all, go on to become customers of the people-smuggling gangs operating in the English Channel. Yet, they are also now pawns in a game of geopolitical chess  masterminded by a Libyan warlord who is copying the tactics of his one-time mentor, Colonel Muammar Gaddafi.

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General Khalifa Haftar, 82, is the strongman ruler of Libyas breakaway eastern region, from where the unlucky migrants in the Sky News documentary set sail. Eastern Libya seceded in the wake of Gaddafis overthrow in 2011, but is unrecognised internationally.

Haftar is, however, backed by Vladimir Putin, who sees east Libya as a useful foothold in north Africa, and whose Wagner mercenary group joined forces with Haftar in a botched attempt to overthrow the UN-backed government in Tripoli in 2020.

Now, having failed to achieve his goals by force, Haftar appears to be using migrants as a weapon instead. His forces have been increasingly proactive in recent months, stopping migrant boats in the waters off eastern Libya and raiding trafficking networks in eastern cities such as Tobruk.

Haftar, in return for presenting himself as a solution to Europes migrant woes, is thought to be seeking both funding from the EU and recognition for his Kremlin-backed government.

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I dont think theyre doing migrant patrols purely out of the kindness of their hearts, Alex Crawford, the documentarys presenter, told The Telegraph. They said there was no deal with Europe, but at the same time, told us that they want recognition and European funds.

Migrants struggle in the Mediterranean, around 35 miles off the Libyan coast, October 2021 - Valeria Mongelli/Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved

It is not the first time Libyas rulers have sought leverage for policing Europes southern border. In 2010, Gaddafi infamously threatened to turn Europe black unless the EU paid him 4bn a year to stop illegal migrants. Brussels later agreed to pay 50m a year to fund border controls and joint naval patrols  an arrangement that was dissolved after Gaddafis overthrow the following year.

Libyas subsequent lapse into civil war saw people trafficking soar, peaking in 2016 when 181,000 migrants crossed the Mediterranean, most arriving in Italy. The following year, Rome struck an EU-backed deal with the Tripoli government to fund interdiction efforts by Libyas coastguard. This significantly reduced arrivals to Italy from Libya, which fell to 13,000 in 2018. Since then, numbers have risen again  as have concerns over the ethics of the deal itself.

Human rights groups, however, accuse the Tripoli government  in reality a loose coalition of militias  of abusing migrants, and of secretly colluding with the traffickers. One coastguard commander, whose men were trained by the EU, was even sanctioned by Brussels as a suspected trafficker in 2018. However, with 67,000 migrants crossing last year alone, and more expected thanks to the escalating civil war in Sudan, Brussels has had little choice but to continue with the deal, worth 55m a year to the Tripoli government.

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Haftars rival government in eastern Libya now seems to be angling for its own cut of the action  and the EU seems to be playing ball. Just last month, the EUs border control agency, Frontex, discreetly invited Haftar officials to a meeting at its HQ in Warsaw.

Eastern coastguard forces have also received training from Greek and Italian counterparts. British and American generals and diplomats have also visited Haftar to discuss defence co-operation, particularly in combating the Islamic extremist groups that ran amok in much of Libya a decade ago. He is fond of telling visiting Western functionaries not to lecture about democracy, saying: Security comes first, politics comes later.

Yet, like the militia-backed government in Tripoli, Haftar is an awkward partner for the West. Having helped Gaddafi seize power in 1969, he fell out with the colonel after being captured during Libyas disastrous war with Chad in 1987, resurfacing in America and joining a CIA-backed opposition group. He joined Libyas 2011 uprising, but fell out with other revolutionaries who saw him as a new Gaddafi in the making.

Former Libyan leader Colonel Muammar Gaddafi in Tripoli following the September 1969 coup that brought him to power - AFP FILES

While he is credited with bringing stability to eastern Libya  Benghazi, the biggest city, is considered safer than Tripoli  critics say his fiefdom is now a dictatorship, with opposition movements cowed. Like Gaddafi, Haftar is also said to be grooming his son  named Saddam after Saddam Hussein  to succeed him.

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Saddam Haftar leads the Tariq Ben Zeyad militia, whose forces are understood to be involved in counter-trafficking operations, despite accusations of human rights abuses.

While Libyas rival governments squabble over oil revenues and land, there are enough migrants to keep both in work. The UN has documented nearly a million in Libya, with many more undocumented ones. An EU-funded scheme whereby migrants are flown home from Libya and given help resettling has returned only 100,000 in a decade. In the Sky News documentary, migrants say they are undeterred by the risk that crossing the Mediterranean may end up in drowning or jail. Our dream is just to get to Europe one day to help our families, one said.

Exactly how many migrants from Libya then head for Britain is unclear, but the route is popular with citizens from countries including Pakistan and Bangladesh, as well as African nations such as Sudan, Eritrea and Somalia. All are well represented on the cross-Channel small boats. Haftars government insists its counter-trafficking work is well-intentioned, but some critics liken him to an arsonist with a fire extinguisher. Given that he has turned eastern Libya into a police state, they doubt that any people-smuggling boats depart without his tacit say-so.

I suspect they know who the people smugglers are  its all under their control, says one ex-diplomat who knows Libya well. If they stop the boats and take the migrants back to Libya, [the smugglers] can charge them to make the trip again.

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Jalel Harchaoui, a Libya specialist based in Paris, doubts that Haftar controls the smuggling gangs directly, but says he could frighten Europe by allowing surges in trafficking. He told Sky: If every time the [migration] statistics go up, and trigger panic in Italy and Greece, and all of a sudden the Europeans offer gifts and incentives, what are you going to do? Bring down the figures and then let them spike again.

Khalifa Haftar salutes supporters during a rally in Benghazi, March 2025 - ABDULLAH DOMA/AFP or licensors

Haftar also seeks diplomatic parity with Tripoli, a point he made unsubtly when the Greek, Italian and Maltese foreign ministers, along with the EU commissioner for migration, Magnus Brunner, paid a visit in July. He cancelled their audience abruptly after they refused to be photographed with his ministers  something that would have signalled tacit recognition of his government. That shows he thinks he has some clout, and isnt just going to do people favours, Harchaoui tells The Telegraph.

The question is how big a favour Haftar expects in return. Most diplomats believe he does not want outright independence for eastern Libya, as the countrys lucrative oil industry  which part-funds his own government  is too widely dispersed to make two separate states viable. But with President Assad now having fled Syria, Haftar is Putins only Mediterranean ally  yet another bargaining chip in his dealings with Europe. Much as the continent may not want to do business with him, it may prove wise to keep him on side.

Its worrying for the West because he can control three of the most sensitive things in Europe  migrants, oil and terrorists, says the ex-diplomat. What happens, for example, if the Kremlin tells him to start letting terrorists get on to those people-smuggling boats? The West is doing its best to reach out to him, but so far hes not showing much sign of playing ball.

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Europes Migration Crisis: How East Libya Became the People Smuggling Frontline will air on Sky News on November 15 at 9pm

Try full access to The Telegraph free today. Unlock their award-winning website and essential news app, plus useful tools and expert guides for your money, health and holidays.
By Doina Chiacu

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Republican lawmaker Marjorie Taylor Greene accused U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday of putting her life in danger, saying his online criticism has triggered a wave of threats against her.

Greene, once a longtime Trump loyalist who has more recently taken positions at odds with the president, said she has been contacted by private security firms warning about her safety.

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"Aggressive rhetoric attacking me has historically led to death threats and multiple convictions of men who were radicalized by the same type (of) rhetoric being directed at me right now," Greene, a U.S. House of Representatives member from Georgia, wrote in a post on X. "This time by the President of the United States."

Trump broke with Greene on Friday night in a withering social media post in which he referred to Greene as "Wacky" and a "ranting lunatic" who complained he would not take her calls. He continued his criticism on Saturday with two more social media posts, calling her a "Lightweight Congresswoman," "Traitor" and a "disgrace" to the Republican Party.

GREENE SAYS TRUMP AGGRESSION FUELS 'RADICAL INTERNET TROLLS'

In her first response posted on Friday, Greene accused Trump of lying about her and trying to intimidate other Republicans before a House of Representatives vote next week on releasing files related to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender who was friendly with Trump in the 1990s and 2000s before they had a falling out.

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On Saturday, Greene wrote that she now has a "small understanding" of the fear and pressure felt by Epsteins victims.

"As a Republican, who overwhelmingly votes for President Trump's bills and agenda, his aggression against me which also fuels the venomous nature of his radical internet trolls (many of whom are paid), this is completely shocking to everyone," she wrote.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on her post.

On Wednesday, Greene was one of only four House Republicans who joined Democrats in signing a petition to force a vote on releasing the full Justice Department files related to Epstein.

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Trump has called the furor over Epstein, who died in a jail cell in 2019, a hoax pushed by Democrats.

He suggested in his Truth Social post that conservative voters in Greene's district might consider a primary challenger and that he would support the right candidate against her in next year's congressional election.

Online backlash from Trump supporters is not unusual. Right-wing influencers and conservative media personalities have become a potent online force in amplifying talking points and false claims, and attempting to discredit Trumps rivals.

(Reporting by Doina Chiacu and Nandita Bose;Editing by Rod Nickel)
SRINAGAR, India (AP)  A cache of confiscated explosives detonated inside a police station in Indian-controlled Kashmir, killing at least nine people and injuring 32 others, police said on Saturday.

The blast occurred in the Nowgam area of Srinagar, the regions main city, late Friday when a team of forensic experts and police were examining the explosive material, said Nalin Prabhat, the regions police director-general. He ruled out any foul play, saying it was an accident.

The dead included six police and forensic officials, two civil administrators and one civilian, authorities said. Some of the injured were in critical condition.

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The huge blast ripped through the police station, setting it and multiple vehicles on fire. According to the news agency Press Trust of India, small successive explosions prevented immediate rescue operations.

A deadly car explosion

The police station blast came days after Mondays deadly car explosion in New Delhi, which killed at least eight people near the citys historic Red Fort. Indian officials called it a heinous terror incident carried out by anti-national forces. The car blast happened hours after police in Kashmir said they had dismantled a suspected militant cell operating from the disputed region, arresting at least seven people, including two doctors from Indian cities, and seizing a large quantity of bomb-making material in the city of Faridabad, near New Delhi.

Indian security agencies have since carried out a series of raids in Kashmir as part of their investigation into the car blast, questioning hundreds while detaining scores others.

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Indian police said Saturday they used DNA to identify the car's driver and that he was a Kashmiri doctor. Government forces blew up his family home in the southern district of Pulwama on Thursday night, officials said.

In the past, troops have demolished homes of suspects they accuse of being tied to militants fighting against Indian rule in Kashmir as a punishment.

Stored explosives

Police had brought the explosive material seized in Faridabad to Kashmir as part of their investigation and were kept securely in an open area at the police station, where the investigation that led to the suspected militant cell began last month, according to Prabhat, the top officer.

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Prabhat said a team of experts was taking samples for forensic investigation when the blast occurred, calling it an accidental explosion.

Any other speculation into the cause of this incident is unnecessary, he said.

The blast could be heard from miles away in Srinagar, locals said. Some of the victims' body parts were recovered from nearby houses, over 100 meters (328 feet) away from the police station. Multiple houses also suffered damage.

The explosion produced a deafening roar that rattled houses and flung open windows closed tight, Bashir Ahmed, a resident, told The Associated Press.

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Relatives of killed civilian protest his death

Nearly a dozen relatives of Mohammad Shafi Parray, killed in the blast, assembled at his home in Nowgam and marched in protest to the police station, chanting: We want justice.

One of Parry's relatives, who didn't give her name, said the deceased, a tailor by profession, was summoned by the police Friday night. Why did (the police) take him?" she shouted.

A local police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity in keeping with departmental policy, said the tailor had been called to the station to stitch bags for storing explosive material samples.

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India and Pakistan each administer a part of Kashmir, but both claim the territory in its entirety.

Militants in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir have been fighting New Delhis rule since 1989. India insists the Kashmir militancy is Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Pakistan denies the charge, and many Kashmiris consider it a legitimate freedom struggle.
The longest government shutdown in U.S. history has ended after more than a month.

President Donald Trump signed legislation late Wednesday to reopen the federal government, hours after the House of Representatives voted 222209 to approve a funding package. The move ends weeks of disruption that left hundreds of thousands of federal workers without pay and shuttered key services, from food assistance programs to national parks.

Under the agreement, federal employees will receive back pay for the missed weeks. Federal agencies, preschools, and food benefit programs will resume operations, and delayed economic data releases will restart.

Trump signs bill, blames Democrats

Trump signed the bill around 10:25 p.m. Wednesday, shortly after the House vote. In televised remarks from the Oval Office, he blamed Democrats for the shutdown.

President Donald Trump shows the signed bill package to reopen the federal government in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 12, 2025.

The extremists in the other party insisted on creating the longest government shutdown in American history, and they did it purely for political reasons, Trump said, surrounded by House Republicans.

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All but two House Republicans voted in favor of the measure, while only six Democrats supported it. The Senate had approved the deal earlier in the week after several Democrats dropped policy demands over health care to end the stalemate.

Hochul: Shutdown created 'chaos' for New Yorkers

Gov. Kathy Hochul criticized Republican leadership following the deal, saying the shutdown caused unnecessary hardship for New Yorkers.

At a time when Republicans control every lever of the federal government, they shut it down, creating chaos in our airports, in our federal workforce, and for hungry families who depend on SNAP, Hochul said in a statement.

She urged New Yorks congressional Republicans to extend Affordable Care Act tax credits and focus on affordability for working families.

My statement on the short-term funding bill: pic.twitter.com/xZ4CJAmVb9  Joe Morelle (@RepJoeMorelle) November 13, 2025

New York lawmakers divided

Rep. Joseph Morelle (D-Irondequoit) said he voted against the bill because it fails to bring down the crushing cost of health care for working people.

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Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has not yet released a formal statement but took to social media to press House Speaker Mike Johnson on health care, writing: So, Speaker Johnson wheres your healthcare plan?

So, Speaker Johnson... wheres your healthcare plan? pic.twitter.com/UFEC1GZG2M  Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) November 13, 2025

On the Republican side, Rep. Claudia Tenney (RUtica) said Democrats manufactured a crisis to damage President Trumps America First agenda, adding that House Republicans had pushed for a clean funding bill from the start.

Rep. Elise Stefanik (RSaratoga County), who recently announced a run for governor, said she voted to end the shameful Schumer Shutdown and accused Hochul of cheering on the shutdown.

New Yorkers are already facing an affordability crisis, Stefanik said. They deserve a governor who can deliver results and save New York.

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The shutdowns long-term political impact remains to be seen, but for now, federal workers and agencies across New York are preparing to resume operations.

Contributing: USA Today network

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Longest government shutdown ends. Heres what NY leaders are saying
Surveillance video captured tense moments in the North Valley as a group of masked robbers broke into a Madera jewelry store located on North Country Club.

Within seconds, the store owner took matters into his own hands and opened fire on the crooks sending them running out the door.

As unsuspecting customers left Olivia's Fine Jewelry store in Madera around seven Thursday evening, surveillance video captured a group of about five masked people charge in.

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The thieves quickly filed into the store, darting straight for the glass cases, sending the employee at the counter to seek safety.

One suspect stayed at the door as a lookout.

In a matter of seconds, the owner came out of the back of the store with his own gun, firing 3 to 5 shots.

The crooks took off running as he chased them out the door.

"It's shocking to the conscience. It's scary to the family because it is a mom-and-pop store with family being your own employees, it's your own business and your livelihood," says Sergeant Blake Short, Madera Police Department.

Even though the shots were fired, authorities say no one was hit.

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The thieves were able to make off with an estimated $170,000 in high-value jewelry.

"I believe the store owner did what he felt was necessary at the time. We don't always recommend that in this field. Fortunately, no one was harmed in this situation," says Sergeant Short.

Madera Police call the robbery sophisticated, adding that the young adult suspects had a clear plan.

"Preliminary investigation shows they were in the area for a little while, we would call that pacing. This was definitely meticulous. It was thought out. It did not appear to be a first time for these individuals," says Sergeant Short.

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Bullet holes through display cases, caution tape outside.

The commotion sent shockwaves through the shopping center.

"I got scared; it was very scary. We heard just a loud noise. I told the manager I think that's a gunshot," says Veronica Casillas, a nearby store employee.

Authorities were able to recover the getaway car, described as a dark grey Audi. They say the suspects ditched it just outside the Madera city limits.

The investigation remains ongoing and no additional descriptions of the suspects have been released.

For news and weather updates, follow Brisa Colon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Donald Trumps longtime supporters are coming for White House gatekeeper Susie Wiles, blaming the presidents so-called Ice Maiden for his missteps on everything from the Jeffrey Epstein files to his America First agenda.

After a turbulent week marked by criticism of the presidents comments on affordability, skilled worker visas, Chinese students, and his halting response to the newly released Epstein emails, MAGA loyalists have openly accused his chief of staff of steering the president off-course.

Susie Wiles, whom Trump affectionately calls the Ice Maiden, is a central force in the West Wing. / Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

Wiles, long viewed as one of the architects behind Trumps 2024 campaign revival and now a central force inside the West Wing, has spent years cultivating a reputation as a disciplined, discreet operativesomeone who not just advises Trump, but tries to keep him focused and filters out the noise for him.

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But for some hardline conservatives and MAGA loyalists, her gatekeeping is now the problem.

Psssssst hey Susie Wiles, you may wanna pivot now. The MAGA ship is sailing and several of you missed the boat, far-right commentator Ann Vandersteel wrote on X this week

Oh, and friendly reminder, we the people are YOUR boss. President Trump is too. And WE are his boss.

This is what happens when SwampySuzie runs your White House. https://t.co/kVoiaOVnUd  Robert Barnes (@barnes_law) November 12, 2025

Lawyer Robert Barnes also weighed in, writing that this is what happens when SwampySuzie runs your White House alongside a CBS scoop about financial industry executives being invited to dine with the president.

Others suggested the veteran operative ought to be replaced.

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She needs to go before she gets him destroyed in the midterms, wrote one social media user, who describes herself as just a red girl living in a blue world.

Too many boomers as gatekeepers. Get a young COS with the pulse on modern American issues, wrote another.

She needs to go before she gets him destroyed in the midterms. Unless that is her goal and I assume it is.  lisa (@lisa_k_h) November 14, 2025

The backlash came after a difficult couple of weeks for Trump, who received a resounding rebuke last week as Democrats swept off-year elections across the country, partly due to anger over cost-of-living pressures.

It was a s--t-show, one senior operative close to the president said.

But Vice President JD Vance told the Daily Beast: The Twitter trolls running their mouths dont know the first thing about Susie Wiles or how this White House works. There are few people in this world that have done more to advance the MAGA agenda than Susie, and we are all incredibly grateful for the leadership she brings to this administration.

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Donald Trump Jr. added that Wiles has been the most loyal and trusted advisor and friend my father could have ever asked for and has built a White House and Administration carrying out the America First Agenda.

However, frustrations started to boil over when Trump responded to the election defeats by describing affordability as a Democratic hoax and repeatedly insisted prices had gone down under his administrationwhen this is not the lived experience for millions of Americans.

MAGAs rage intensified on Tuesday when the president dismissed concerns from his base that Chinese students were taking up college places that Americans wanted.

I know what MAGA wants better than anyone else, he said in a jaw-dropping interview with Fox News ally Laura Ingraham.

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By the next day, however, that rage turned white hot when the America First president suggested that there were no talented workers in the U.S. after being cornered for allowing high-skilled foreign workers into the country.

Donald Trump interviewed on The Ingraham Angle. / screen grab

If you want to raise wages for American workers, you cant flood the country with hundreds of thousands of foreign workers, Ingraham told him.

Well, I agree, but we also do have to bring in talent, Trump replied.

We have plenty of talent, Ingraham fired back.

No you dont, no you dont... you dont have certain talents and people have to learn! he lamented.

U.S. President Donald Trump holds a meeting with White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine and other cabinet members in the Situation Room at the White House in Washington, D.C., June 21, 2025. / The White House/Handout via via Reuters

While some accused Trump of abandoning his principles, and even declared they would no longer support him, others set their sights on his chief of staff.

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But Trump has long been a staunch defender of his top aide, whom he affectionately calls Ice Maiden and once praised as the most powerful person in the world.

The 68-year-old was the first major staffing appointment the president made after winning the election last year, marking the first time a woman has held the position of chief of staff in the White House.

Chris LaCivita (3rd L) and Susie Wiles (4th L), senior advisers to President Donald Trump's campaign, at an election night event after Trumps victory. / Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

Susie Wiles just helped me achieve one of the greatest political victories in American history, Trump said on Nov. 8, 2024, three days after defeating Kamala Harris.

He added that Wiles, a former adviser to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, was universally admired and respected.

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But not everyone in Trumps orbit initially agreed with the pick. In his new book Retribution, ABC journalist Jonathan Karl revealed a last-ditch effort by two other contenders, Linda McMahon and Brooke Rollins, to derail Wiles appointment ahead of Trump meeting her at Mar-a-Lago on Nov. 7 to offer her the job.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins reportedly tried to derail Wiles appointment as Trumps chief of staff. / Kevin Dietsch / Getty Images

According to Karl, various staffers who had worked for Wiles managed to thwart Rollins and McMahon on their way to see Trump, and even managed to orchestrate a call with JD Vance to help delay them. The pair are now cabinet secretaries in the administration.

Others see Wiles as an establishment figure in a movement that distrusts exactly that. But the intensity this week represents a new escalation, as frustrations inside MAGA circles collide with what many view as botched messaging and Trumps apparent betrayal of his America First agenda.

Susie Wiles needs to be gone yesterday, a MAGA acolyte wrote on X. I have a feel (sic) a lot of the domestic crap is from her side of the party and its drowning out Stephen Miller.

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I am publicly calling for Trump to fire Susie Wiles. She is doing unspeakable damage to MAHA and MAGA, in my opinion, wrote another.

White House spokesman Kush Desai said: There is no better champion for President Trump and the Make America Healthy Again movement than Susie Wiles.

Susies leadership has helped the Administration clinch one historic MAHA agenda victory after another: from getting artificial ingredients out of our food supply to restoring Gold Standard Science in our public health bodies, he said.

There is no aide that is more indispensable to President Trump and his agenda than Susie Wiles. Those who are complaining arent doing it in good faith and they clearly are not aligned with the historic MAGA agenda she has helped President Trump build since 2016.
CRESCENT CITY, Del Norte County - Rattled by earthquakes. Pummeled by wind and rain. Buried in landslides.

This 3-mile stretch of Highway 101 atop a cliff in California's far north careens through old growth redwood forests and across an earthen river of dirt and rock that is constantly shifting downslope toward crashing waves.

For more than a century, Del Norte County residents have called it Last Chance Grade, though no one recalls who coined the foreboding name.

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A freshly paved road should last seven to 10 years, but not here. Six months is about the limit before jagged cracks, bubbling asphalt and falling rocks threaten motorists navigating sharp, treacherous turns.

"Come out in March after a tough storm - it's a war zone out here," said Clayton Malmberg, a construction engineer with Caltrans whose sisyphean job is to keep Last Chance Grade from falling into the sea.

Last Chance Grade has been crumbling toward the sea for more than a century due to underground landslides and geologic instability, and is often open only for one-way traffic while crews repair the road. (Carlos Avila Gonzalez/S.F. Chronicle)





California's government has spent more than $100 million since 2015 to keep this crucial lifeline open so residents can leave Del Norte County to the south for jobs, school and medical care, and so tourists can visit some of the world's most majestic and tallest trees.

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Finally, this summer, the state announced a proposed solution: Dig the longest tunnel in state history.

It's a plan as audacious as the decisions made more than a century ago to perch the highway along a gorgeous yet volatile coastal cliff, but one experts hope will be more sustainable - and safer.

The road shuts down completely nine times annually on average due to landslides and other emergencies as well as for maintenance and repairs, according to Caltrans.

It has also claimed at least two lives.

During a heavy rainstorm in 1972, Kurt Stremberg's parents drove south from their Crescent City home to drop Stremberg, then a recent college graduate, at a friend's house 20 miles south in Klamath. It was still dark when Edwin and Aili Stremberg said goodbye to their son and began the drive home. In that short time, a portion of Last Chance Grade had washed away.

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"They came around a turn and went over the cliff," Stremberg said. If they'd left home 15 minutes later, he said that he and his parents "would have gone over the cliff together."

Crescent City resident Kurt Stremberg's parents were killed in 1972 when their car drove off the cliff at a washed-out section of Last Chance Grade on Highway 101. (Carlos Avila Gonzalez/S.F. Chronicle)





In the decades since the Strembergs' deaths, Last Chance Grade has become an even more intractable and expensive problem.

A 2014 landslide forced road crews to shut it down to one lane, and it wouldn't reopen to two-way traffic for a staggering nine years. After another landslide in 2021, workers repairing the roadway were nearly killed by a tree that toppled when part of the hillside collapsed.

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Along with commuters, the chronic closures hamper police and emergency personnel. "We'd shut down our lights and sirens and have to wait with the rest of traffic," said Del Norte Ambulance driver and supervisor Brandon Johnson.

Emergency medical technicians Maria Aleman, left, and Cheryl Yutzy prepare to leave the dispatch center in Crescent City. When Last Chance Grade on Highway 101 collapses, emergency services can be delayed for hours. (Carlos Avila Gonzalez/S.F. Chronicle)





Expected to cost upward of $3 billion, the tunnel would pass deep within the shifting hillside and underneath majestic and protected old growth redwood forest designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Caltrans estimates the tunnel would cut the average number of accidents on this 3-mile stretch by nearly half.

The closest endeavor in scope and scale is a set of tunnels that opened in 2013 to avoid a landslide-prone portion of Highway 1 called Devil's Slide in San Mateo County. It was the state's first major tunnel project in 50 years and cost just under $500 million.

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But tunneling near Last Chance Grade poses a number of expensive and technical challenges. Crews must dig below protected Redwood National and Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Parks through seismically active and geologically unstable territory.

Steve Mietz, president and CEO of Save the Redwoods League, said that it was ultimately one of the least disruptive options for the prized and protected old growth forest. Caltrans reported it would require removing 144 large trees, including about a dozen of the largest redwoods with diameters larger than 5 feet.

Visitors coming from the south to see attractions such as Stout Memorial Grove in Redwood National and State Park outside of Crescent City sometimes face long delays during frequent bouts of construction at Last Chance Grade. (Carlos Avila Gonzalez/S.F. Chronicle)





Caltrans has not yet identified how it would pay for the tunnel. It's a rough time to fundraise, with President Donald Trump's government looking askance at spending, not least in Gov. Gavin Newsom's California. Del Norte County Supervisor Chris Howard said he and others will spend the next four years identifying funding sources, including grants at all levels of government. Caltrans' current plan is to break ground in 2031 and complete the tunnel by 2038.

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"We need to leave no stone unturned and be pretty damn creative," Howard said.

Vital line'

Walking at the base of a series of three-story tall retaining walls holding up the highway, Malmberg and senior engineering geologist Charlie Narwold described the challenge of bolstering a hill that's falling at different rates and directions depending. Here at this location, one part of the hill was sagging westward and another was shifting to the southwest.

"You can see the stretch fractures," Narwold said, pointing to cracks in the wall's massive, horizontal concrete beams.

Over the years, construction teams have pioneered new, unorthodox methods with concrete and steel to support the cantankerous hillside while allowing it to shift without totally buckling the infrastructure. Spines of steel plates bolted together act like a massive expansion joint.

Construction engineer Clayton Malmberg stands near a part of the roadway bound by towering retaining walls holding up the hillside at Last Chance Grade on Highway 101. (Carlos Avila Gonzalez/S.F. Chronicle)





"Ultimately, this will fail," Malmberg said.

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Landslides and slipouts plagued road crews building this northernmost portion of Highway 101 in the late 1930s, a time when California was embarking on major infrastructure projects.

The state opted to extend the highway into Del Norte County by improving an already-troublesome dirt route, noting even then that it would be "expensive to maintain because of the extremely unstable formation" of the hillside. To even out the ups and downs of the road, crews buried redwood trees and built a firm dirt road on top. The segment was completed in 1937, the same year as the Golden Gate Bridge.

In 2012, Caltrans finished building a first set of retaining walls to shore up Last Chance Grade. It was a major construction effort that also straightened out some of the scariest hairpin curves and widened the road, which previously had no shoulders.

But after a few months of blustery winter, Narwold said, "everything was falling apart."

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"I don't think we fully appreciated, as a department, how much things were moving," he said.

Mineral stains mark the cracked concrete of an anchored retaining wall holding up part of Last Chance Grade. (Carlos Avila Gonzalez/S.F. Chronicle)





A member of SHN Enginners & Geologists extracts a core sample at the test site of a potential tunnel on the Last Chance Grade on Highway 101 in Crescent City, Calif., on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025. Last Chance Grade is a section of Hwy 101 in southern Del Norte County that has been crumbling into the sea for decades due to geologic instability, and is sometimes only open for one-way traffic while crews shore up the slipping hillside. Caltrans constantly repairs the road, but the state is proposing a tunnel to bypass the worst part of the road at a cost of $2 Billion. (Carlos Avila Gonzalez/S.F. Chronicle)





It's not just one problem that plagues this roadway. Crescent City lies in a geologically perilous area. Three tectonic plates come together offshore, and this tectonic jostling is gradually shoving the land upward even as rising seas chew at the coastline. Onshore, dozens of underground landslides undulate and shift at different rates and in different directions, although always moving generally toward the sea.

And climate change is expected to bring bigger storms that dump dramatic amounts of rainfall and can trigger erosion.

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Since the first retaining walls were built in 2012, crews have reinforced them by boring into the hillside, drilling through layers of old asphalt in some places, to lodge long anchors deep into the earth. But the earthflow is believed to be as deep as 250 feet, and they have yet to reach bedrock.

This month, crews are adding more anchors and exploring whether to build another wall.

Visitors photograph birds on the beach near Last Chance Grade on the Del Norte County coast. (Carlos Avila Gonzalez/S.F. Chronicle)





"We can only continue this for so long, building walls in front of walls in front of walls," Malmberg said.

Tamera Leighton, executive director of the Del Norte Local Transportation Commission, said locals have known for generations that the road was untenable, but they struggled to get the state's attention. That began to shift about 15 years ago. They'd formed a local stakeholder group with Rep. Jared Huffman, D-San Rafael, and Caltrans produced an economic impact report that, for the first time, highlighted "how big of a problem it was for the state of California," Leighton said.

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The report, which was updated in 2018, analyzed a scenario in which a major slide closed both lanes and transformed a half-hour drive between Del Norte and Humboldt counties into an eight-hour odyssey into Oregon and looping back through winding mountain highways.

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Such a disruption could cost the traveling public, from truckers to tourists, an estimated $650,000 more per day in added vehicle fuel and operating costs. Del Norte County businesses stand to lose $1.2 million every day the road is closed. An extended closure could jeopardize as many as 3,800 jobs.

"Without that vital line to get people in and out of Del Norte, we're literally cut off from the world," said Cindy Vosburg, executive director of the Crescent City-Del Norte County Chamber of Commerce.

A land like New Zealand

About 10 miles north of Last Chance Grade, coastal Crescent City lies on a square peninsula jutting in the Pacific Ocean. It's about a dozen miles from the Oregon border and home to the vast majority of Del Norte County's roughly 28,000 residents.

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Tsunami-prone and rugged, this coastal outpost is a migratory stop for Aleutian geese and home to Roosevelt elk and salmon runs on the Smith River - the only major California river to never have been dammed.

The Smith dumps into the Pacific Ocean on a sprawling coastal ranch with about 6,000 milk cows where the land looks "more like New Zealand and Ireland than anywhere else in the country," said longtime dairyman Blake Alexandre. The cool, wet weather keeps the green grass and the cows outside grazing year round.

Cows from Alexandre Family Farm make their way back to the barn near Highway 101 outside Crescent City, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025. Alexandre Family Farm has to rely on Last Chance Grade to deliver milk to the Bay Area. Last Chance Grade is a section of Hwy 101 in southern Del Norte County that has been crumbling into the sea for decades due to geologic instability, and is sometimes only open for one-way traffic while crews shore up the slipping hillside. Caltrans constantly repairs the road, but the state is proposing a tunnel to bypass the worst part of the road at a cost of $2 Billion. (Carlos Avila Gonzalez/S.F. Chronicle)





When Highway 101 is closed, Alexandre's milk trucks, headed for San Leandro, must travel north into Oregon and hook around to Interstate 5, adding about four to five hours and between $1,500 and $1,800 in costs per trip.

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Alexandre said his company, Alexandre Family Farm, has so far weathered short-term disruptions, but a long-term closure could be devastating. He estimated that a month of detours through Oregon could cost $150,000.

"We're just going to have to eat it and survive and get through it," Alexandre said of the scenario.

Del Norte County had a vivid glimpse at isolation on Valentine's Day in 2021 when the hillside above the highway gave way, sending tons of rocks and debris tumbling from the hillside across the highway. The 22-mile route between Crescent City and Klamath, two deeply connected communities, became a 449-mile detour.

Children and parents were trapped at schools or jobs on separate sides of the slide. People were cut off from health services, jobs and schools.

Point Battery Lighthouse is an iconic Crescent City landmark. Road closures at Last Chance Grade cause economic hits for the scenic town, which relies heavily on tourism. (Carlos Avila Gonzalez/S.F. Chronicle)





The road was still partially closed one month later when the land above crumbled again, sending a towering tree crashing onto road crews working below. Three workers were hurt, including a Caltrans engineer who lost a foot.

"It was terrible. It was a disaster," Vosburg said.

Del Norte County declared an emergency, and Caltrans installed portable bathrooms on either side of the slide. Fearing the economic losses from lost tourism, Vosburg said, the chamber launched a marketing campaign to rebrand the long traffic delays caused by one-way traffic controls as part of the travel experience.

"You're stuck in one of the most beautiful places in the world," Vosburg said. "Even if you were stuck in the traffic for a couple hours: Turn off your engines, step out, breathe in, look at beautiful trees around you."

Boring through the hillside

The tunnel, if built as planned, is slated to run just over a mile. Caltrans has begun taking samples from deep within the hillside to find what it might encounter when, and if, the digging begins.

Men in hard hats stood around a rattling, jolting machine at the side of a steep roadside berm amid towering redwoods. They grabbed a canister about 6 feet long, inserted it into a hole in the hillside, aimed a large hydraulic ram and sent a powerful stream of water gushing forward to propel the canister deep into the hill.

An employee with SHN Engineers & Geologists extracts a core sample taken from deep within a hillside where Caltrans is planning to dig a tunnel for Highway 101 in Del Norte County. (Carlos Avila Gonzalez/S.F. Chronicle)





They had pulled about 830 feet of rock samples so far with a goal of getting at least 1,200 feet of rock to give tunnel engineers a sense of what they might encounter.

Minutes later, the group pulled a chain and the canister came out. Supervisor Giovanni Vadurro, an engineering geologist with SHN Engineers & Geologists, carried it over to a table and opened it up lengthwise, revealing a dark gray rock mottled with slivers of white.

"Sandstone with quartz vein," Vadurro said.

"Hey man, this is good stuff," said Narwold, who was visiting the worksite with a reporter. The sandstone was largely intact instead of crumbly, which could mean the hillside is more stable in that area, he said.

Children play soccer at Beachfront Park in Crescent City, which is heavily isolated from visitors when Highway 101 at Last Chance Grade is closed due to landslides. (Carlos Avila Gonzalez/S.F. Chronicle)





Some Del Norte County residents are wary of a tunnel taking them through a notoriously shifting landscape. Others doubt the state can pull off a massively expensive project in such a remote and sparsely populated area of the state.

Stremberg said he too was initially wary of a tunnel but is now convinced it's the best alternative.

After his parents died on Last Chance Grade, Stremberg considered moving to Europe - he had emigrated with his parents from Finland as a toddler. But he stayed in Crescent City, starting a realty business, getting married and raising two sons.

And he kept pushing local leaders to agitate the state to act.

"It's just never ending," Stremberg said. "Something needs to happen."

This article originally published at A major California highway is sliding toward the sea. There is no quick fix.
Individuals named Magnild are typically perceived as strong-willed, determined, and naturally authoritative. They often possess a commanding presence and excel in leadership roles, demonstrating both strategic thinking and practical problem-solving abilities. Their innate strength of character makes them reliable in crises and respected by peers, though they may sometimes be perceived as intimidating or overly assertive by those who prefer more passive personalities.



Beyond their evident strength, Magnilds usually exhibit deep loyalty to their principles and loved ones, combining their warrior spirit with protective instincts. They tend to be straightforward and honest, valuing authenticity in relationships. While they can be competitive and driven, many also show surprising compassion and fairness, particularly when defending those who cannot defend themselves. This balance of power and principle makes them both formidable and admirable figures in their communities.
A man has admitted to robbing to using a gun to rob multiple local stores, the U.S. Attorneys Office, Southern District of Ohio said.

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Timothy Farr, 43, of Dayton, pleaded guilty to multiple counts of armed robbery on Oct. 6, according to federal court records.

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Farr was federally charged with 12 counts of armed robbery in January, according to a previous News Center 7 report.

The robberies happened at multiple convenience stores and gas stations throughout southwest Ohio in December 2024.

Farrs plea agreement recommends a federal prison sentence of 15 to 25 years, according to court documents.

Dayton police were tracking Farr from Dec. 3 to Dec. 15, according to a previous News Center 7 report.

They used the citys flock cameras to track the license plate of a red Taurus. The license plate was picked up close to the locations of the robberies.

Farr was eventually arrested during a traffic stop on Dec. 16. During that stop, he was wearing the same outfit described in the robberies and had a 9mm pistol in his waistband.

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A man was found shot to death on Chicago's Northwest Side early Saturday morning, police said.

Police said officers responded to a call about a person shot in the Wicker Park neighborhood's 1500-block of North Honore Street just after 1:45 a.m.

There, officers found a man who had suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his body.

The victim, who police believe was between 18 and 25 years old, was transported to Stroger Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

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There is no one in custody, and Area Five detectives are investigating.

Police did not immediately provide further information about the shooting.

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Police are investigating a shooting that sent a man in his 40s to the hospital with life-threatening injuries early Saturday morning.

Officers responded to 970 Cassat Avenue around 6:45 a.m. after reports of gunfire.

When they arrived, they found the man near a bus stop, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was rushed to a local hospital.

Investigators say a suspect walked up to the victim and shot him for reasons that arent yet clear.

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The suspect then continued to hit the man until another person pulled him away and into a dark SUV, which sped off from the scene.

Jacksonville police are asking anyone with information to call (904) 630-0500 or email jsocrimetips@jaxsheriff.org.

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A North Carolina man is running 150 miles from Raleigh to Charlotte to support firefighters.

Jalen Snipes began his journey on Friday morning, wearing a Raleigh Fire Department shirt, as a tribute to the firefighters who saved his family when their home was struck by lightning during his childhood.

Im forever indebted. We are forever indebted. I thank you guys for everything you guys do. You guys have saved not only my home, but many others around me and across the state and the nation, Snipes said.

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Snipes is raising money for the North Carolina Firefighters Fund through his run.

He plans to complete his run and reach Charlotte by Sunday.

(VIDEO: Father of bride accused of stealing firefighters truck after crash near wedding venue)
Nov. 14A 62-year-old Spokane man who delivered fentanyl to a retired Spokane firefighter, who then overdosed and died, was sentenced to 2 1/2 years in prison.

Randy S. Brown pleaded guilty Nov. 7 to second-degree manslaughter in the death of his friend, 67-year-old David Batty, according to court documents. He was initially charged with controlled substance homicide.

Batty's son discovered his father dead Oct. 14, 2023, inside Batty's camp trailer on Ruby Road near Mead High School, according to court documents. Deputies found 12 light blue, round pills on the coffee table in front of Batty. The pills, commonly referred to as "Mexis" or "blues" on the street, were later tested by the Washington State Patrol Crime Laboratory and determined to contain fentanyl.

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The Spokane County Medical Examiner's Office found Batty died from the toxic effects of fentanyl, methamphetamine and alcohol, according to court records.

Detectives found a Facebook messenger chat between Batty and Brown in which they discussed Brown delivering "the little blue things" to help Batty with pain, according to documents. In the chat, Brown warned Batty about the dangers of taking "the little blue things," but Batty pleaded with Brown to get some of them for him.

Batty told Brown in the Facebook chat he was "hurting" and Brown agreed to bring Batty four things, which detectives believed meant blue fentanyl pills, court records show.

Detectives found many Facebook chat and text messages between Brown and other people arranging drug deals for fentanyl, meth and heroin, according to documents. Brown previously told detectives he visited Batty the night before his death, and while he has sold fentanyl pills to other people, he never sold drugs to Batty.

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He said he visited Batty regularly and knew Batty had pain and motion issues with his hands and back.

At the Spokane Fire Department, Batty earned the rank of lieutenant and the nickname, "The Batman," according to his obituary.

Batty had a history of impaired driving, including a 1993 conviction of vehicular homicide for an alcohol-related crash that killed one person, according to previous Spokesman-Review reporting.

In 2007, Batty was involved in a crash that killed three people. At the time, he was taking pain medications for a back injury, but a report concluded he showed no signs of impairment at the time of the wreck, and the Spokane County prosecutor declined to pursue charges.

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Meanwhile, Brown was arrested in Spokane eight months after Batty's death.

After Brown pleaded guilty last week, Spokane County Superior Court Judge Charnelle Bjelkengren sentenced Brown to 31 months in prison and 18 months of community custody, or probation, when he's released from incarceration.

During the sentencing hearing, Batty's son spoke to Brown, saying he forgave him because his father was one of the most forgiving people he knew, and his dad would want him to extend forgiveness, according to a Spokane County Prosecuting Attorney's Office news release.

The office said the elements to prove second-degree manslaughter include criminal negligence and failure to recognize a substantial risk that actions may cause death.

Jail records show Brown has been in jail since his June 2024 arrest and will be given credit for eligible time served.
Nov. 14A 33-year-old man who shot 30-year-old Dylan McCorkle in the head outside his Logan Neighborhood home was sentenced Friday to 25 years in prison, according to the Spokane County Prosecuting Attorney's Office.

A Spokane jury in March found Gunnar M. Doughty, a five-time felon, guilty of second-degree murder for the early morning shooting on Feb. 2, 2024 on the corner of Hamilton Street and Jackson Avenue.

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Katie McNulty said during trial that McCorkle and Doughty got into an argument the night of Feb. 1, 2024, in which Doughty called McCorkle's girlfriend a variety of bad names, upsetting McCorkle.

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Shortly before 2 a.m. the next day, McCorkle, who lived two doors down from Doughty, walked to Doughty's home to discuss the argument, McNulty said.

McCorkle was shirtless and indicated he was high on methamphetamine when Caisha Wilmoth, who knew both men, encountered McCorkle walking up and down the street minutes before the shooting, Wilmoth testified.

She told police in court documents she pleaded with McCorkle to walk back home and was aware Doughty was always armed with a gun. McCorkle instead walked onto the Hamilton Street property.

McCorkle called for Doughty to come out of the house. Doughty, who was armed with a 9 mm pistol, eventually came outside, stepped off the porch and into the front yard where McCorkle and Wilmoth stood.

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McNulty said McCorkle, who was unarmed, asked Doughty, "What are you gonna do? Shoot me?" Doughty then fired one shot at point-blank range and ran away.

Doughty's attorneys claimed their client fired in self-defense. Doughty pleaded guilty before the trial to unlawful possession of a firearm related to the shooting.

Doughty's sentencing range was 16 to 25 years in prison, plus a five-year mandatory sentencing enhancement, the prosecutor's office said in a news release. McNulty asked for 30 years in prison and the defense argued for 10 years, an "exceptional sentence" below the standard sentence range because McCorkle was a "willing participant" by showing up at Doughty's house, the release said.

McNulty said Doughty was out on bond for a pending unlawful possession of a firearm charge at the time of the killing. She mentioned the intentional nature of Doughty's firearm charges as he has four unlawful possession of a firearm convictions and a possession of a stolen firearm conviction, according to the release. Doughty continually possessed guns without permission and in defiance of court orders, McNulty said.

Spokane County Superior Court Judge Julie McKay called the shooting "senseless violence" and imposed a sentence of 25 years, the midpoint of the standard sentence range.
A man is in custody after police say he broke into a home in Miamisburg on Saturday.

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As reported on News Center 7 at 6:00, Miamisburg Police said they initially received a 911 call regarding a disorderly man on the porch of a home in the 100 block of Old Main Street.

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911 is on here listening to you, you aint breaking nothing! the 911 caller said.

Maam, maam, I need you to talk to me, the dispatcher replies.

Get out of here, the caller said.

Just after this, several loud bangs are heard on the 911 call.

Im on oxygen, hes breaking in my door, the caller said.

When police got to the scene, they saw the man, later identified as 65-year-old Steven Elzey, breaking through the front window of the home.

The caller told dispatchers that Elzey was an ex.

Police tried to detain Elzey, but he went into the home through the broken window.

A short time later, police saw a fire in the home.

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First responders made forced entry into the home and were able to take Elzey into custody.

The fire was then quickly put out.

Police said Elzey is being held on several charges, including burglary, obstructing official business, and resisting arrest.

The fire remains under investigation.

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AP Photo/John Bazemore

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) posted a text message she sent to President Donald Trump that she believes sent him over the edge and prompted him to attack her on social media.

On Friday, the simmering tension between the two came to a boil amid newly released emails from dead sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, a longtime friend of Trumps. The House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on Tuesday on a bill that would require the Department of Justice to release its files relating to Epstein, who authorities say committed suicide in a Manhattan jail cell in 2019.

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Greene was one of just four Republicans to sign a discharge petition to force a vote on a bill, which is expected to pass.

On Friday night, Trump slammed Greene in a Truth Social post, calling her wacky and a ranting lunatic while also stating that he is withdrawing my support and Endorsement of her.

It did not take Greene long to respond. Posting on X, she wrote a lengthy rebuttal and included a screenshot of a text message that she says she sent to Trump that the congresswoman said sent him over the edge:

President Trump just attacked me and lied about me. I havent called him at all, but I did send these text messages today. Apparently this is what sent him over the edge. The Epstein files. And of course hes coming after me hard to make an example to scare all the other Republicans before next weeks vote to release the Epstein files. Its astonishing really how hard hes fighting to stop the Epstein files from coming out that he actually goes to this level. But really most Americans wish he would fight this hard to help the forgotten men and women of America who are fed up with foreign wars and foreign causes, are going broke trying to feed their families, and are losing hope of ever achieving the American dream. Thats what I voted for. I have supported President Trump with too much of my precious time, too much of my own money, and fought harder for him even when almost all other Republicans turned their back and denounced him. But I dont worship or serve Donald Trump. I worship God, Jesus is my savior, and I serve my district GA14 and the American people. I remain the same today as Ive always been and I will continue to pray this administration will be successful because the American people desperately deserve what they voted for. For me, I remain America First and America Only!!!

Greene included a screenshot of a text to the president in which she urged him to investigate Epsteins ties to the Clintons.

Marjorie Taylor Greene/X

Marjorie Taylor Greene/X

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The congresswoman added another screenshot of a response from Natalie, who texted THE JEFFREY EPSTEIN HOAX. Natalie has the initials NH, which is possibly a message from Natalie Harp, the executive assistant to the president.

Marjorie Taylor Greene/X

Greene responded by noting that she has repeatedly said Trump did nothing wrong, and added that the raping of teenage girls is not a hoax.

In one of the emails released this week, Epstein alleged in 2011 that Trump knew about the girls. The email did not elaborate, but given Epsteins penchant for underage girls, the comment raises clear questions about what Trump knew of his activities.

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In another email, Epstein said President Donald Trump spent hours at my house with Virginia Giuffre, an Epstein victim who said she never saw Trump doing anything illegal. Giuffre committed suicide in April. Elsewhere, Epstein claimed he gave his ex-girlfriend to Trump.

The post Marjorie Taylor Greene Posts Epstein Text Message to Trump That Sent Him Over the Edge first appeared on Mediaite.
WASHINGTON  Ten months into Donald Trumps second term, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has positioned herself as a surprising critic of the administrations policies  and as a torchbearer for the America First agenda that she believes the president has drifted from, she told NBC News in recent interviews.

Greene, who has long been one of his most outspoken allies, said that Trump personally inspired her run for Congress in Georgia in 2022 and described her political identity as rooted in his promise to represent what she calls the forgotten man and woman of America.

That was me, she told Tucker Carlson recently, recalling how she saw Trumps campaign as a referendum to the Republican Party on behalf of the American people  that were just so sick of Washington, D.C.

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Now, Greene finds herself at the center of a divide inside the Republican Party over how deeply the U.S. should involve itself abroad, as surveys show the state of the economy is top of mind for many Americans and following a round of elections that focused on affordability.

No one cares about the foreign countries. No one cares about the never-ending amount of foreign leaders coming to the White House every single week, Greene told NBC News.

The dispute underscores a broader rift over whether Trumps presidency still reflects the populist message that powered his rise. And it reflects a MAGA movement preparing for a future without Trump at the top of the ticket, with the next generation of leaders figuring out where to take the base he built.

On Friday night, just hours after this article published, Trump decided he had had enough. He went on social media and said he was withdrawing his endorsement of her.

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He said while the U.S. is now the "'HOTTEST' Country anywhere in the World...all I see 'Wacky' Marjorie do is COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN!"

Trump also accused her of going "Far Left" and suggested that her criticism of him was personal, because he didn't think she should run for senator or governor. He also said he was open to supporting another Republican primary challenger to Greene.

Since taking office in January, Trump has made 14 foreign trips, with stops in Italy, the Middle East, Canada, Asia and the U.K., among others, according to an NBC News analysis. In the same period, hes visited 15 U.S. states. That includes a trip to Alaska to meet Russias Vladimir Putin to discuss ending the war in Ukraine. By the same point in Trumps first term, he had visited 27 states. Trump also said that he expects to travel to China early next year to meet with President Xi Jinping. And Bloomberg reported Thursday that he may attend the World Economic Forum, a gathering of the political and business elite, next year in Davos, Switzerland.

We didnt elect the president to go out there and travel the world and end the foreign wars, Greene said. We elected the president to stop sending tax dollars and weapons for the foreign wars  to completely not engage anymore. Watching the foreign leaders come to the White House through a revolving door is not helping Americans.

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One of the big campaign issues is Americans were fed up with foreign wars, she added. Its like, get us out of this.

President Donald Trump with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun in Busan during his Asia trip in October. (Andrew Harnik / Getty Images)

While Trump did promise on the campaign trail to quickly end the wars in Ukraine and the Gaza Strip, the latest national NBC News poll shows Republicans overwhelmingly believe he has lived up to their expectations on foreign policy (82%), including 66% of Republicans who do not identify with the MAGA movement.

But for Greene and others, its a matter of priorities; they argue that the economy should be the clear focus.

Its not that I want a very different foreign policy, said one Trump ally with a lens on foreign policy, who was granted anonymity to speak candidly. He just needs to be messaging more aggressively that his focus is on young Americans, and the things that they are still having trouble getting, and the problems theyre having.

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Greene has escalated her criticism as the foreign visits have continued, saying Trumps attention abroad is doing nothing to solve the problems that are really plaguing vulnerable segments of our population, especially young people.

She has slammed meetings with leaders such as Argentinas Javier Milei, whom she described as seeking a bailout, and Ukraines Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who she said arrived with his hands out begging for more.

Trump and Greene wave to the crowd at the Bedminster Invitational LIV Golf tournament in New Jersey in 2022. (Seth Wenig / AP file)

In response to Trump's repudiation of her Friday night, Greene tweeted that she wished Trump would put more energy into addressing economic issues and less into fighting the release of files related the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

"Its astonishing really how hard hes fighting to stop the Epstein files from coming out that he actually goes to this level," she wrote. "But really most Americans wish he would fight this hard to help the forgotten men and women of America who are fed up with foreign wars and foreign causes, are going broke trying to feed their families, and are losing hope of ever achieving the American dream."

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Ryan Girdusky, a Republican consultant who helped run a pro-JD Vance super PAC in the 2022 Ohio Senate race, said its not surprising that the president has shown interest in cementing his global legacy.

When presidents dont have to run again, they do a lot of foreign policy trips, Girdusky said. They do a lot of things for the legacy. And Trumps Middle East stuff is probably the most important of any president since Nixon.

The Trump ally said that while he supports Trump raising awareness of, say, Christians being persecuted in Nigeria, if we get to the point at which we really start talking about doing military action there, then I think weve lost the plot.

Conservatives have also questioned recent U.S. strikes in the Pacific and Caribbean and whether Trump risks the U.S. drifting into deeper conflict. The president, in October, denied that he is considering strikes inside Venezuela.

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In an article last month, the conservative journalist Christopher Caldwell questioned the buildup of U.S. military forces and weaponry off the coast of Venezuela, asking, What does Trump think hes doing?

Carlson, in the recent show featuring Greene, outlined what he said were MAGAs five pillars, or the founding principles of the Trump administration. The first, he said, is putting America first, describing this as the idea that the country operates on behalf of its owners, the citizens of that country. Other pillars have a similar focus on the homeland, including a secure border, ending foreign wars, and a real domestic economy not dependent on globalization. A fifth calls for protecting free speech.

You cant have a global country, Carlson said, arguing that this is a point Trump made again and again.

Asked about Greenes recent comments following a meeting that morning with Syrian interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, Trump said Monday he has to view the presidency as a worldwide situation, not locally.

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When youre president, you really sort of have to watch over the world, because youre going to be dragged into it  otherwise, youre going to be dragged into a world war, Trump said.

You know, its easy to say, Oh, dont worry about the world. But the world is turning out to be our biggest customer, he continued. The world is  the world was on fire, and we could have been in that fire very easily if you didnt have a president that knew what he was doing.

Of Greene, a longtime ally, he said, Shes lost her way, I think.

Trump shakes hands with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the White House on Nov. 10. (Syrian Arab News Agency via AFP- Getty Images)

Responding to Trump's comments, Greene told NBC News this week: Im America First, America Only. Hardcore.

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Asked if she had spoken to him to hash things out, she said, No, I havent talked to him. 100% havent changed.

The clash comes against the backdrop of a difficult housing market and rising costs of living. Only about 1 in 5 homes sold in the year ending in June was purchased by a first-time buyer, according to a new report by the National Association of Realtors. Greene pointed to her own adult children  ages 22, 26 and 28  as examples of what she views as a generation facing diminishing prospects.

They dont think theyre ever really going to be able to buy a home, she said. They were promised, you go to college, youre going to get a great job. That doesnt exist. Thats not reality.

In a recent Fox News interview, Trump discussed affordability but seemed to downplay Americans concerns around economic anxiety, calling the issue a con job by the Democrats and suggesting that polling showing it was top of mind for voters was fake.

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Greenes message has resonated with others in the party, particularly after a string of disappointing GOP election results this month. And she has drawn applause across the political aisle for her willingness to take direct aim at her own party, including during a recent appearance on The View.

Greene dismissed speculation that she is positioning for a 2028 presidential bid, saying she is focused on her district.

Analysts say the tension reflects the broader evolution of the Trump movement.

Justin Logan, a foreign policy analyst at the Cato Institute, said that so long as Americans do not feel direct costs from the foreign engagements, dissent inside the movement may remain limited. If they can win on the argument that theyve been successful and cheap, theyll be able to push back their critics, he said of the administration.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has made it clear that people who are politically or religiously persecuted are allowed to stay in Germany.

Those who are politically or religiously persecuted, Germany "will not deport. That is completely clear," Merz said at a political event of his conservative bloc.

At the same time, he emphasized that refugees who have sought protection from civil wars must return to their home countries once the conflicts have ended.

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"Those who have fled here temporarily from civil wars must return to their home country once the civil war is over," Merz said.

Merz announced that he would speak with the Syrian president about what can be done to ensure that the people who are here can contribute to the reconstruction of Syria now that its civil war is over.

Many of them, he said, would be needed in Syria and should therefore have an incentive to return to their homeland.

Finally, Merz spoke about the prospects of staying for well-integrated refugees.

"Many are here and are needed here, have become doctors, for example, or are working in various professions. We also want to give them the prospect of staying here if they are integrated, if they are able to earn their living here with their families," Merz added.
Cultural & Historical Significance

In Nahuatl culture, the name Mecatl carries profound significance as it represents both the physical concept of a rope and the metaphorical concept of lineage. The rope symbolism extends to connections between generations, the binding of family ties, and the continuity of ancestral lines. This dual meaning reflects the Nahua worldview where physical objects often carried spiritual and social significance. The name was traditionally given to individuals expected to maintain family records or those born into lineages with important social responsibilities.



During the pre-Columbian era, names like Mecatl were carefully chosen to reflect both personal characteristics and familial expectations, serving as a constant reminder of one's place within the larger social fabric and the importance of maintaining cultural continuity through generations. The name embodies the Mesoamerican concept of interconnectedness, where individuals are seen as links in the eternal chain of existence, connecting past, present, and future in an unbroken continuum of cultural and familial identity.
The Michigan Lottery offers several draw games for those aiming to win big. Heres a look at Nov. 14, 2025, results for each game:

Winning Daily 3 numbers from Nov. 14 drawing

Midday: 4-3-9

Evening: 8-1-5

Check Daily 3 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Daily 4 numbers from Nov. 14 drawing

Midday: 8-0-8-8

Evening: 3-2-5-4

Check Daily 4 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Lucky For Life numbers from Nov. 14 drawing

14-19-34-42-43, Lucky Ball: 13

Check Lucky For Life payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Poker Lotto numbers from Nov. 14 drawing

6C-3D-5D-7D-6H

Check Poker Lotto payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Fantasy 5 numbers from Nov. 14 drawing

19-20-21-34-35

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11-24-25-34-38

Check Fantasy 5 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Daily Keno numbers from Nov. 14 drawing

05-09-10-13-14-15-20-22-27-29-36-38-44-45-49-51-57-66-67-69-70-71

Check Daily Keno payouts and previous drawings here.

Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results

Are you a winner? Heres how to claim your lottery prize

All Michigan Lottery retailers can redeem prizes up to $600. For prizes up to $99,999.99, winners have the option to submit their claim by mail or in person at one of Michigan Lotterys Regional Offices.

To claim by mail, complete a ticket receipt form, sign your winning ticket, and send it along with original copies of your government-issued photo ID and Social Security card to the address below. Ensure the names on your ID and Social Security card match exactly. Claims should be mailed to:

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Michigan Lottery

Attn: Claim Center

101 E. Hillsdale

P.O. Box 30023

Lansing, MI 48909

For prizes over $100,000, winners must claim their prize in person at the Michigan Lottery Headquarters in Lansing located at 101 E. Hillsdale in downtown Lansing. Each winner must present original versions of a valid government-issued photo ID (typically a drivers license or state ID) and a Social Security card, ensuring that the names on both documents match exactly. To schedule an appointment, please call the Lottery Player Relations office at 844-887-6836, option 2.

If you prefer to claim in person at one of the Michigan Lottery Regional Offices for prizes under $100,000, appointments are required. Until further notice, please call 1-844-917-6325 to schedule an appointment. Regional office locations are as follows:

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Lansing: 101 E. Hillsdale St. Lansing; Phone: 844-917-6325

Livonia: 33231 Plymouth Road, Livonia; Phone: 844-917-6325

Sterling Heights: 34700 Dequindre Road, Sterling Heights; Phone: 844-917-6325

Detroit: Cadillac Place, 3060 W. Grand Blvd., Suite L-600, Detroit; Phone: 844-917-6325

Grand Rapids: 3391-B Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids; Phone: 844-917-6325

Saginaw: Jerome T. Hart State Office Building, 411 E. Genesee Ave., Saginaw; Phone: 844-917-6325

For additional information, downloadable forms, and instructions, visit the Michigan Lottery's prize claim page.

When are Michigan Lottery drawings held?

Daily 3 & Daily 4: Midday at 12:59 p.m., Evening at 7:29 p.m.

Fantasy 5: 7:29 p.m. daily

Poker Lotto: 7:29 p.m. daily

Lotto 47: 7:29 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday

Lucky for Life: 10:38 p.m. daily

Daily Keno: 7:29 p.m. daily

This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a Michigan editor. You can send feedback using this form.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan Lottery Daily 3, Daily 4 results for Nov. 14, 2025
Turkish police have arrested three more suspects after a German woman and her two children died from suspected food poisoning while on holiday in Turkey, the state news agency Anadolu reported on Saturday.

Three people working in the hotel that the deceased family members had stayed in have been arrested, Anadolu said, bringing the total number of arrests in the case to seven.

The woman, her husband, and the couple's 6-year-old son and 3-year-old daughter had travelled to Istanbul on Sunday.

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The family, which has Turkish roots, drove to the Ortakoy district on Tuesday around lunchtime, the father said before his condition deteriorated, according to the Sabah newspaper.

There, they ate stuffed mussels from a street vendor and then soup and a dish made from calf intestines, known in Turkish as kokorec, at another shop.

On the way back to their hotel in the Fatih district, they bought Turkish delight and water. Anadolu reported that the family also ate chicken.

On Wednesday, the family was initially admitted to hospital with suspected food poisoning, the news agency reported. The children were treated for nausea and vomiting, but were later discharged.

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When the children's condition deteriorated, the entire family was taken to hospital again during the night. Shortly afterwards, both children died, followed by their mother.

The father is still being treated in intensive care.

Investigators are continuing to follow up on leads to shed light on the deaths. Food poisoning remains a suspected cause, but the results of laboratory tests are still pending, according to Anadolu.

Two other tourists hospitalized

Following the death of the three family members, two more tourists were admitted to hospital with symptoms of poisoning, the news agencies DHA and Anadolu reported on Saturday.

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They had been staying at the same hotel in the Fatih district of the city as the German family. The police are investigating on site.

The daily newspaper Cumhuriyet (Republic) said the sick tourists are from Italy and Morocco.

They complained of nausea and vomiting, but their lives are not in danger, Anadolu reported.

When asked by CNN Turk about possible food poisoning, one of the hotel owners said the hotel does not have a restaurant and only provides water.

Anadolu said investigators took drinking water samples on site and evaluated the surveillance cameras. They also found that a room on the ground floor of the hotel had been disinfected with chemicals.

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The police arrested a hotel manager and two people who had carried out the disinfection.

Four suspects were already arrested in connection with the deaths on Friday.

The state broadcaster TRT reported that they are sellers of sweets, stuffed mussels and kokorec. The food sellers are accused of negligent homicide, Anadolu reported. According to the report, they have previous convictions for other offences.

The authorities have closed a shop where the family is said to have eaten.

Burial in western Turkey

The deceased mother and two children were buried in a town in the western Turkish province of Afyonkarahisar on Saturday, according to Anadolu.

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Relatives of the family and local politicians attended the funeral service.

One of the father's uncles demanded that those responsible be held accountable. "Whoever did this must be punished," he told Anadolu at the funeral.

The health director in the province of Istanbul wrote on X that there had not been an unusual increase in cases of food poisoning.

Experts have criticized the monitoring of food safety standards in Turkey, saying restaurants and street vendors are not checked often enough, especially in areas with high numbers of tourists.

There have been repeated cases of suspected food poisoning in the news. In early November, 80 pupils and teachers were admitted to hospital in the city of Kayseri after eating sausage sandwiches at an event.
Two Tennessee officials escorting Vice President J.D. Vances motorcade to a fundraiser were hospitalized after crashing into each other Friday night.

It happened at the East Lamar Alexander Parkway in Maryville, a city in eastern Tennessee.

Maryville motorcycle officer Justin Brown was transported to the University of Tennessee Medical Center in critical condition, while a trooper with the Tennessee Highway Patrol was also hospitalized for evaluation.

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We ask everyone to keep the officer, family and the medical staff in your prayers, said Maryville Police Chief Tony Crisp.

Crisp said a group of people on the scene immediately rendered aid and played a critical role in saving Browns life, according to WVLT-8.

To those individuals whose quick response saved FTO Browns life last night, we could never thank you enough. You are true heroes, Crisp said.

Brown was taken into surgery Saturday morning, Crisp said.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol is investigating the crash.

Local television news station WTVF in Nashville said Vances motorcade was heading to a Republican National Committee fundraiser at the Blackberry Farm Resort in Walland, TN.

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Neither the vice president nor anyone else traveling with him were affected by the crash, Katherine Pierce, resident agent in charge at the Secret Services Knoxville Resident Office, told The New York Times.

Vances press secretary declined to respond to The Timess requests.

Watch the clip above via WTVF, Nashville.

The post Motorcycle Officer Critically Injured While Escorting JD Vance Motorcade first appeared on Mediaite.
A man employed by the Madison school district has been charged with numerous crimes related to his alleged involvement in a drug distribution network.

Casey J. Young, 32, of Morris Plains, was charged with a total of nine crimes, the Morris County Prosecutors Office said in a statement on Friday. The most serious of the offenses are first-degree possession of 100 milligrams of LSD with intent to distribute and second-degree possession of a half ounce of cocaine with intent to distribute.

Other charges include possessing psilocybin mushrooms and drug paraphernalia and possessing a handgun with no permit.

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Authorities allege that Young and two other men were running a drug distribution network around Morris County from Sept. 1 to Nov. 13 of this year. Multiple search warrants executed on Thursday yielded large quantities of cocaine, ketamine, ecstasy, LSD, psilocybin mushrooms and drug distribution paraphernalia, officials said.

Detectives also seized two handguns and $18,000 in cash, which are suspected to be proceeds from the sale of drugs, prosecutors said. One of the guns had been reported stolen in Mississippi, officials said.

Young was arrested after he pulled up to one of the homes being searched in a Madison Board of Education truck. Authorities said he is an employee of the district, but did not specify what he does for the school district. School officials could not immediately be reached for comment Friday night.

The other two men arrested were Adrian D. Schwerdt-ONeil, 34, of Parsippany-Troy Hills, and Jeremy C. Mayes, 35, of Cedar Knolls. Schwerdt-ONeil is charged with various drug offenses including second-degree possession of a half ounce of cocaine with intent to distribute and conspiracy to distribute controlled dangerous substances.

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Mayes was charged with a total of 13 crimes, ranging from second-degree possession of a firearm during the course of a CDS offense and money laundering, third-degree receiving stolen property, as well as possessing cocaine, ketamine and ecstasy.

All three men were taken into custody on Thursday. Schwerdt-ONeil has since been released, but Young and Mayes remain in custody at Morris County Jail.

Editors note: This article was revised to reflect the fact that Young is a school district employee. In an earlier statement, the Morris County Prosecutors Office incorrectly identified him as a department of public works employee.

Read the original article on NJ.com. Add NJ.com as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
A New Jersey school district employee was arrested in connection with a Morris County drug ring bust after arriving at a Cedar Knolls residence driving a Madison Board of Education truck, prosecutors said Friday.

Casey J. Young, 32, of Morris Plains, was one of three people arrested Thursday after a narcotics investigation led to the seizure of multiple controlled substances  including suspected ketamine, cocaine and MDMA  firearms and nearly $18,000 in cash, the Morris County Prosecutors Office said.

The other two arrested were 35-year-old Jeremy C. Mayes, of Cedar Knolls, and 43-year-old Adrian D. Schwerdt-ONeil, of Parsippany-Troy Hills.

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Investigators allege the three men were running a drug distribution network around Morris County from Sept. 1 until the day they were taken into custody.

The arrests followed searches of a residence in Cedar Knolls in Hanover Township; a home and storage unit in Parsippany-Troy Hills; and four vehicles, all conducted under search warrants, authorities said.

Detectives seized a large quantity of suspected cocaine, a loaded revolver and drug paraphernalia from the Parsippany residence, while a search of the Cedar Knolls home resulted in the seizure of suspected ketamine, cocaine, MDMA, marijuana and about $18,000. A stolen Glock 43 was also found in a Nissan Altima linked to Mayes.

Both Young and Mayes were arrested as they pulled up to the Cedar Knolls home in a Madison Board of Education truck, prosecutors said.

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Young, a Madison school district employee, was allegedly driving the truck. During his arrest, police found a Parsippany storage unit card in his possession.

After obtaining a search warrant, investigators searched the unit and found a loaded Glock 31 handgun, approximately five tabs of suspected LSD, two bags of suspected psilocybin mushrooms, numerous pills and drug distribution paraphernalia, including a drug ledger.

All three were arrested Thursday and booked into the Morris County Jail. Mayes and Young remain detained pending a motion for pretrial detention, but Schwerdt-ONeil has since been released, officials said.

They face multiple drug and weapons charges, including conspiracy to distribute and possession of large amounts of drugs with the intent to distribute.

Prosecutors did not specify what Young does for Madison Public Schools, and the district has not publicly commented on his arrest.
Oklahoma public schools wont be able to adopt new social studies textbooks next year with academic standards for the subject still in flux.

The State Textbook Committee voted Friday to suspend indefinitely the social studies textbook adoption cycle while the state Supreme Court and the Oklahoma State Department of Education consider what to do with the academic standards.

A September Court order paused implementation of the new social studies standards, which became highly controversial for including Bible teachings and dubious claims about the 2020 presidential election and COVID-19. Public records show 12 textbook publishers chose not to return to Oklahoma after the new standards were approved.

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Those 12 companies, including major publisher Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, are currently on the states approved list but didnt submit a bid this year for reapproval. Companies have withdrawn from Oklahoma before during a math adoption cycle in 2023.

Some of those companies informed the Education Department they had concerns about new content included in the social studies standards, said Sharon Morgan, program director for the agencys Office of Standards and Learning.

There were a few publishers that were familiar with that did reach out, Morgan said. They were concerned about a few of the objectives in the 2025 social studies standards, and they let us know that they would not be bidding.

Morgan said she doesnt recall which publishers this entailed. She said the companies didnt specify what new content was the source of their concerns, only that they did not feel they could bid.

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The state received 12 bidders this year, including four not currently on the approved list.

In a typical cycle, the State Textbook Committee would have voted in November on final textbook adoption after considering review committees evaluations of each publisher. That vote would establish an approved list that schools could choose from when spending their textbook funds.

That vote couldnt happen Friday with the social studies standards on hold, said Morgan, who was recently appointed as the committees chairperson.

Were hoping this is resolved by February and we know what our standards are, she told the committee during Fridays meeting.

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In the meantime, public schools will continue using social studies standards and textbooks adopted in 2019.

New state Superintendent Lindel Fields said his administration intends to reexamine the 2025 standards. He told news reporters last month he expects there will be some changes to them, which would need agreement from the Oklahoma State Board of Education and the state Legislature.

Fields replaced former state Superintendent Ryan Walters in October. Walters, who resigned Sept. 30, led the development of the 2025 social studies standards.

Publishers would have another opportunity to bid once the standards are finalized, Morgan said. Having a final version of the standards by February would give companies time to decide whether to submit an intent to bid by April.

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Delays in the current adoption cycle could force the textbook committee and its review teams to consider both social studies and science materials in 2026, Morgan said. It also could push three other subjects on the 2026 schedule  health, physical education and vocational education  to later years, she said.

Oklahoma Voice is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oklahoma Voice maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Janelle Stecklein for questions: info@oklahomavoice.com. Follow Oklahoma Voice on Facebook and Twitter.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma not adopting social studies textbooks with standards on hold
Orlando police on Friday said an attempt by SWAT to execute a search warrant related to drugs and guns at a tattoo shop left one person dead in what was called an officer-involved shooting.

SWAT officers with the Orlando Police Department attempted to execute the warrant around 2 p.m. at a tattoo shop on Edgewater Drive near the intersection with Lee Road. OPD had previously received multiple drug dealing complaints about the shop and believed criminal activity was occurring inside, Chief Eric Smith said at a news conference following the incident.

Smith said multiple suspects were believed to be inside the shop. They collectively had criminal histories including burglary, robbery with a firearm, possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, sex offenses, drug offenses, auto theft, and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, an OPD news release said.

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When SWAT arrived, a person fled the shop with an AK-47-style rifle. Officers fired shots at him, causing him to flee back into the shop, according to the release.

Multiple people became barricaded inside. When OPD entered the shop about an hour later, they found one person dead, Smith said.

Smith initially said a suspect died at the scene, and the news release said one suspect was found dead, but Smith thereafter did not identify the person found dead as a suspect. Smith said who killed the person and how, including whether or not they were shot, would be determined by the investigation.

The investigation will also determine who was inside the shop, given that innocent bystanders could have been there, Smith said. He said wasnt sure if any suspects were still at large and said it is still early in the active investigation.

The release said the officers involved in the shooting were not injured and have been placed on administrative leave, which is standard procedure for officer-involved shootings. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement will conduct an independent review of the incident, followed by a review by the Orange-Osceola State Attorneys office.
The root cause of the nations longest government shutdown - and the next one, and the one after that - isnt ideological extremism or hyper-partisanship on their own. Its the incentives created by the outsized influence of party primary elections.

The good news is that there is an easy and effective solution to Americas primary problem: open, all-candidate primaries.

Shutdowns are no longer rare or risky. Both dominant parties take the U.S. government hostage on an increasingly regular basis because lawmakers fear losing a low-turnout primary more than they fear harming millions of Americans.

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The Cook Political Report projects that next year,92% of House racesand83% of Senate racesare safe for Democrats or Republicans and will be effectively decided in party primaries. For lawmakers holding those seats, losing the general election is nearly impossible. Their political futures will be decided in primary elections, a toxic dynamic that forces Democrats to appeal to stridently liberal voters and drives Republican candidates to the far-right MAGA margins.

In non-competitive seats, the elections will be decided by less than10% of eligible voters- those voting in party primaries. Making matters worse,16.6 million registered independent votersin 16 states are not allowed to vote in party primaries for Congress, which denies them access to the only elections that count. This injustice is magnified by the fact that party primaries are funded by taxpayers, millions of whom cant vote in them.

Therefore, during this shutdown, the political calculus was simple for most Democrats: Closing the government aligned with their reelection strategies. Compromise would risk inviting a challenger from their own party. Thats why they held the line for more than 40 days, and why Republicans showed no willingness to negotiate over Obamacare subsidies. Both sides responded predictably to the same structural incentives.

It made little difference that most Americans opposed the shutdown or preferred a bipartisan compromise on healthcare. In our system as it exists today, the opinions of most Americans dont matter.

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Similar to the 2013 shutdown led by Sen. Ted Cruz, the Democrats strategy to achieve a policy goal was doomed. But it was "worth it" electorally to inflict weeks of pain on the country, and in particular, government workers and SNAP recipients.

Primaries - or the absence of primary pressure - also explain the group of eight Democratic senators who joined Republicans to finally reopen the government. What united them was not ideology or temperament, but insulation from immediate electoral threat. Several are retiring; others are not up for reelection until 2028 or 2030. None faces the wrath of primary voters next year.

This dynamic is neither new nor unique to this moment. It is the latest example of what my organization, Unite America, calls the"Primary Problem": the distortion created when a tiny, unrepresentative slice of voters effectively chooses most of Americas elected officials. In 2024, the Unite America Institute found that 87% of House members were effectively elected in primaries by just 7% of voters. Once the few competitive general elections are accounted for, only 15% of Americans cast ameaningful votefor the entire House.

When 7%-15% of voters hold the real power, polarization becomes a rational strategy. Shutdowns are not anomalies; they are the foreseeable outcome of a political system in which electoral incentives reward intransigence.

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If we want fewer shutdowns, we must fix the incentives that fuel them. The most direct way to do that is to give more Americans a meaningful say in the elections that actually determine outcomes. That means making general elections matter again.

Fortunately, a proven solution already exists. Five states -and most major U.S. cities- useopen, all-candidate primaries. Instead of separate party primaries, every candidate appears on a single primary ballot, and every voter can participate. The top finishers advance to November, where they must win a majority to serve. This simple change forces candidates to appeal to a broader electorate and encourages elected officials to govern from consensus rather than from the fringes.

This system has produced real results. InAlaska, bipartisan coalitions have repeatedly formed in the legislature, unlocking historic investments in education and energy.Louisianaexpanded Medicaid and passed major charter school reforms. All-candidate primaries encouraged these policy achievements by empowering broad coalitions and sidelining narrow partisan interests.

When politicians are accountable to all voters, not just the most ideological ones, they behave differently. They legislate. They compromise. They govern in the interests of the majority. But until more states enact open, all-candidate primaries and make that a reality, itll be hard to expect Congress to address Americas most pressing issues - let alone keep the lights on.

Nick Troiano is executive director of Unite America and the author of "The Primary Solution."
Presidents, politicians, diplomats and scientists descended on Brazil this week to open the international climate summit known as COP30. Although Californias governor made headlines with his remarks, there is no official U.S. delegation, marking the first time that the worlds largest economy  and historically the worlds largest carbon emitter  has refused to participate in global efforts to reduce the harm of climate change.

On one level, America skipping out on the multilateral talks places a ceiling on just how much effect any commitments made at the conference will have on reducing carbon emissions globally. But in Trumps second term, America has transformed from a potential roadblock during climate talks into an aggressive antagonist. By pulling back from the discussions underway in Belem, President Donald Trump may have given them a greater chance of success than otherwise would have existed.

It was clear before Trump returned to office that clean-energy technology was not part of his agenda. A centerpiece of his campaign was denouncing the Green New Scam, as he called it, promising to roll back the Biden administrations climate achievements and investments in renewable energy. In its place would be a set of policies campaign officials described as working to maximize fossil fuel production  or, in Trumps words, drill, baby, drill.

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Two years ago, as another round of climate talks began, I described those Trump campaign proposals as plans to kill us all even faster. Amazingly, that might have been an understatement, because for the Trump administrations strategy for American energy dominance to succeed, global moves away from fossil fuels must be kneecapped. Rather than merely ignoring the rest of the worlds efforts to forestall rising temperatures as we make polluters great again at home, what little progress other countries have made must also be rolled back.

Accordingly, U.S. diplomats have begun impeding multilateral efforts to address climate issues. Last month, the United States tanked an International Maritime Organization deal that would have required global shipping vessels to reduce their emissions or be forced to pay a fee. The treaty was all but done when the Trump administration swooped in, threatening economic sanctions against countries that agreed to the pact as well as pledging to turn away their ships from American ports. Similarly, long-running discussions to set a limit on global plastic pollution were scuttled this summer in the face of administration obstinance. As The Washington Post noted, the plastics industry has become a crucial growth market for fossil fuel companies at a time when solar power and electric vehicle uptake is expected to eat into demand.

Its hard then to see, then, what good an official U.S. presence might have achieved in Brazil. If anything, the absence of administration representatives is more likely a blessing in disguise, given that the negotiations rely on consensus. As a follow-up to the Paris Agreements goal of holding global warming to 1.5 C above preindustrial levels, COP30 is focused on nations implementing their previous pledges to reduce emissions. As things stand, though, the world is set to blow by the 2015 goal in the coming years as temperatures continue to rise unabated, prompting even more chaotic and destructive weather patterns than we are already feeling.

Still, there are some Americans at the summit. Californias Gov. Gavin Newsom is making the rounds in Brazil, taking swings at the president and presenting himself as an avatar of the post-Trump era. Beyond the obvious political calculations, Newsoms presence speaks to Californias importance on the global stage. The states economy on its own is equivalent to the fourth-largest in the world, and the standards it sets for emissions and more have a deep impact on how companies everywhere do business. California is part of the U.S. Climate Alliance, a group of 24 states and U.S. territories that have pledged to reduce greenhouse gases regardless of the White Houses stance.

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The effort mirrors the strategy of COP 30 host country Brazil toward ensuring the summits success. As Foreign Policy reported, Brazils approach to COP30 is what some climate strategists call coalitions of the doing. Rather than waiting for absolute consensus among U.N. member states, Brazil is moving in smaller groups to push action forward and emphasizing how climate action can lead to economic development. Those states only have to look to Chinas growth in renewable energies, which makes up 10% of its entire economy, to see that theres real potential to tap into that growth themselves.

The idea that America should be on the forefront of developing and scaling new, profitable technologies rather than playing defense for oil and coal is heretical to this administration. Instead, Washington has focused on producing ever more carbon-spewing fuels. Couple that with an obsession with artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency  which both demand vast amounts of energy to power their data centers and water to cool them  and the Trump administrations vision is an America that is increasingly harmful to the planets long-term survival. Thankfully, the rest of the world isnt waiting for us to get our act together before trying to avoid the impending climate disaster that Trump, disbelieving facts and science, derides as a hoax.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
The Orlando Police Department is actively investigating an officer-involved shooting that happened on Friday afternoon, near Edgewater Drive and Lee Road.

Police said the incident began when OPD SWAT served a search warrant for multiple suspects at a tattoo shop located at 4864 Edgewater Drive.

OPD said the suspects had criminal histories that included burglary, robbery with a firearm, possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, sex offenses, drug offenses, auto theft, and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

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Officers said around 2:04 p.m., during the operation, a suspect armed with an AK-47-style rifle fled the scene, prompting officers to fire at him.

Police said approximately 1 hour later, OPD SWAT entered the business, and the suspect, who initially fled back into the tattoo shop, was later found deceased.

The officers involved in the shooting were not injured and have been placed on administrative leave, which is standard procedure following such incidents, OPD said.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) will conduct an independent review of the shooting, followed by an investigation by the State Attorneys office.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev sent a congratulatory letter to his excellency Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine, Azernews reports.

"Dear Mr. President,

On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I cordially congratulate you and, through you, your entire nation on the occasion of the national holiday of the State of Palestine.

The peoples of Azerbaijan and Palestine are bound together by friendly and fraternal ties. Azerbaijan has always demonstrated solidarity with the issue of Palestine, and supports the establishment of an independent State of Palestine with East Jerusalem as its capital and its resolution based on the two-state principle in accordance with relevant UN resolutions and decisions. I express my confidence that the outcomes of the Middle East Peace Summit held in Sharm el-Sheikh will contribute to peace, stability, and security in the region.

We will continue to provide necessary humanitarian assistance to Palestine. I believe that the friendly relations and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Palestine, built on good traditions, will continue to develop successfully in the future.

On this remarkable day, I wish you robust health, happiness, success in your endeavors, and peace and tranquility to the brotherly Palestinian people.

Respectfully,

Ilham Aliyev

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku, 12 November 2025",'' the letter reads.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Muhammad holds unparalleled significance in Islamic culture as it belongs to the final prophet of Islam, considered the 'Seal of the Prophets.' Muslims believe Muhammad received divine revelation through the Angel Gabriel over 23 years, which was compiled as the Quran. His life and teachings (Sunnah) form the foundation of Islamic law, ethics, and social norms. The name is so revered that many Muslims avoid using it alone for their children, often combining it with other names out of respect.



In Islamic tradition, saying 'Peace be upon him' (SAW) after mentioning the Prophet's name is obligatory as a sign of reverence. The name symbolizes the perfect human example for Muslims to emulate in character, faith, and conduct. Throughout Islamic history, the name has been borne by countless scholars, rulers, and reformers who have shaped Muslim civilization. Its usage represents both religious devotion and cultural identity, serving as a constant reminder of the Prophet's legacy and the principles he established for personal and communal life.
Here are this weeks letters to the editor of the Oshkosh Northwestern. See our letters policy below for details about how to share your views.

Read more in Opinion: Click here for the latest Opinion headlines

Nov. 4 election proves voters are fed up

The Nov. 4 election spoke volumes about the mood of this nation. The pundits can spin it any way they like, but the truth is simple: voters are fed up. The American people just sent a clear message that Congress has been listening to the wrong voice for too long.

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Donald Trumps promises have not materialized. The economy is strained, working families are being squeezed, unemployment is increasing and the political showmanship in Washington is wearing thin. If Congress now chooses to eliminate the filibuster just to give Trump a freer hand to push his agenda, they will discover next November what accountability looks like. The voters will replace them.

How can we send $40 billion to Argentina and hand billions more in tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans, yet balk at giving 43 million of our own citizens a fair break on health insurance? That isnt fiscal prudence, its moral blindness.

Its time for Congress to stop behaving like frightened staffers and start acting like the representatives they were elected to be. Stop pandering to a former president who thrives on division. Do whats right for the country, not whats politically convenient, not what pleases one mans ego.

America is watching. The people have spoken. The question is whether Congress has the courage to listen. Its time to put on your big pants, Congress!

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Peter Stueber

Oshkosh

Leaders prioritize authority over compassion

Dear elected leaders,

The Supreme Courts decision to obstruct the extension of SNAP benefits amid a government shutdown represents not merely a policy misjudgment but also a moral failure.

In Wisconsin, families, children and seniors are left contemplating how they will secure their basic nutritional needs. Political leaders and justices have prioritized authority over compassion, and the consequences are being borne by our community members.

As Christians, we are obliged to acknowledge this matter. Scripture explicitly instructs us: Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy. (Proverbs 31:89).

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To remain silent while the vulnerable suffer constitutes a deviation from Gods divine call.

I urge the citizens of Wisconsin  particularly individuals of faith  to voice their concerns. It is imperative to hold Republican leaders and the Supreme Court accountable, as they have neglected their responsibilities to safeguard the populace. Immediate action is required against hunger, which cannot be deferred for political expedience. Silence amid suffering constitutes complicity.

This is our moment to embody our values. Let us act with courage, conviction and compassion, ensuring that justice and mercy guide our state and nation.

Russell S. Hershberger-Beier

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Oshkosh

Read more: Oshkosh Area School District 'exceeds expectations' on latest state DPI report card

Withholding SNAP benefits appalling

Thanks go to the editorial writers this week who provided solid information regarding food shortages and the serious problems that will follow this shameful federal government act.

We have always  provided for the welfare. In a country as great as ours, we are shackled by the present administration. Children need to be fed and allowed to grow strong and healthy. The idea that this is an extra is appalling!

Kathy Chapman

Oshkosh

Our letters policy

Letters to the editor are published in the order in which they are received and letter-writers are limited to having one letter published per month. Letters can be emailed to oshkoshnews@thenorthwestern.com and Editor Brandon Reid at breid@usatodayco.com. Letters must meet specific guidelines, including being no more than 250 words and be from local authors or on topics of local interest. All submissions must include the name of the person who wrote the letter, their city of residence and a contact phone number. Letters are edited as needed for style, grammar, length, fairness, accuracy and libel.

This article originally appeared on Oshkosh Northwestern: Oshkosh letters to the editor talk about Trump, elections & shutdown
This article was originally published in The 19th.

Maia Jackson should have been cranking out a research paper for her communications class. Instead, she found herself queuing up at a food pantry to secure groceries for her household amid the nations longest government shutdown.

I walked out with a shopping cart full of food, the 25-year-old college senior said. I could barely carry it all. I got cereal. I got some frozen meat, hamburger buns. I got a bag of black beans, and then I got a bag of rice.

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Finding a package of chicken strips, a dish she knew her picky 2-year-old daughter would actually eat, almost made her cry, Jackson said. She expects the combination of perishable, bagged and canned foods to last them a month. By then, she hopes her Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments  widely known as food stamps  will have resumed.

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On November 1, SNAP benefits ground to a halt during the federal budget impasse that began a month earlier, with President Donald Trumps administration refusing to fully fund these payments, a matter now tied up in court. Even as the Senate has reached a framework deal that leaves lawmakers and the White House a step closer to ending the shutdown, the disruption in benefits has revealed how fragile the social safety net is for vulnerable Americans. That includes single parents and young adults experiencing food insecurity, a problem that occurs when people lack regular access to the nourishment needed to sustain their health.

An estimated 1.1 million college students rely on SNAP, including parents like Jackson, who attends North Dakota State University (NDSU) in Fargo. For such students, a delayed SNAP payment isnt a mere hiccup, but a serious setback that can imperil their education, their health and stability for their children, experts contend.

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Its such a distraction for me as a single mom in school, Jackson said. I dont have any bandwidth to give to trying to find food at pantries.

Related

Ongoing Legal Fight Leaves Millions of Americans in Limbo Over Food Assistance

She tried to minimize the time she spent at the food pantry last week by making an appointment first, but she was still one of a couple of dozen people in line. The visit prevented her from completing her research paper by its due date, which will likely result in her grade being docked. Jackson, who has so far maintained a 4.0 grade point average, isnt happy about that prospect, but with her family members an hour away and her childs father mostly out of the picture, she had to prioritize food over her education.

No college student should have to choose between a basic need and school, said Deborah Martin, a senior policy associate for The Institute for College Access & Success, a nonprofit that advocates for college access and affordability.

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A lot of students have to make these daily tough decisions where theyre wondering, Where am I going to get my next meal from? instead of focusing on homework, on classwork, Martin said. We know that when students have these unmet basic needs such as food insecurity, theyre more likely to struggle academically, less likely to persist from semester to semester, and in some cases, may even drop out of college altogether.

Roughly 60 percent of college students are women. For the most marginalized students, the risk of quitting school due to food insecurity may be even greater. The Government Accountability Office (GAO), a nonpartisan federal agency that provides fact-based information to Congress, reported last year that about 80 percent of food-insecure students are nontraditional  meaning their parents dont financially support them, they didnt begin college immediately after high school or they are caring for dependents. Moreover, the 2023-2024 Student Basic Needs Survey Report from the Hope Center, a research center at Temple University focused on the food, housing and health of college students, found that around three-quarters of parenting, Black and Indigenous students experience insecurity related to a basic need.

Most of these students, the GAO discovered, do not sign up for services like SNAP, and those who do may hesitate to discuss their food insecurity. As a mom and a slightly older student who works part-time, Jackson has felt largely alone on campus as SNAP benefits have paused. Her classmates dont appear to share her anxiety over the shutdown, if they know about it at all.

A woman shops at the Feeding South Florida food pantry on October 27, 2025 in Pembroke Park, Florida.

(Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

A lot of the kids that Im in class with, theyre not in the same circumstance, Jackson said. Its weird to see a lot of people just carrying on as usual.

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Since most of her classmates  about an even percentage of NDSU students are women and men  are childfree and on the school meal plan, she doesnt want to be a downer by bringing up her difficulties. For the same reason, she didnt explain to her professor why her paper was late. I didnt want to tell him, Oh, I couldnt write it because I was standing in the food pantry line because it just sounds so sad, she said. Whats he supposed to say? I dont want him to feel bad for me. I dont want to be pitied.

But faking normal could come at a high cost for college students who dont reach out for help. Martin fears these young adults will resort to using high-interest payment plans or acquire credit card debt just to afford groceries.

The longer that students and other SNAP participants dont receive their funds, this is just more days that students are going to have to make these difficult decisions, she said.

Some college administrators are taking action. When the shutdown began, Compton College President and CEO Keith Curry contacted Everytable, a food company that offers inexpensive made-from-scratch meals via carryout storefronts and a delivery service. The college, about 18 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles, has partnered with Everytable for seven years to provide all students  approximately 6,000 of whom attend full time  with one nutritious free meal on weekdays.

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The federal government crisis prompted Curry and Everytable CEO Sam Polk to scale up that program so SNAP-recipient and economically disadvantaged students didnt suffer during the shutdown.

We need to do something. Can we split the cost? Curry recalled asking Polk. I think if we double the meals, at least they get another meal for the day.

On November 5, Compton Colleges most underprivileged students began getting two free meals per day, or 10 per week. The need for such an intervention there is substantial: A 2025 basic needs survey of students found that 81 percent of them experience at least one form of insecurity related to a basic need. That includes signs of food insecurity such as skipping meals, reducing meal sizes or fearing they will run out of food. Most Compton College students are moderately food insecure, the survey revealed, indicating persistent hardship. Women make up 61 percent of the student body.

Right now, students have other stress, and what were doing to them is adding more stress, Curry said of the shutdown. They still want to do well in classes, but now they dont have food.

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Together, Compton College and Everytable have the resources to supply students with 10 weekly meals for a month, Curry said. The students are deeply grateful for the additional provisions, according to Dee Garrett, who oversees Everytables operation at the college.

What better way to start your studies than with a stomach thats full? Garrett asked. You dont have to think about, Oh, my God, my stomach. I cant concentrate or focus.

Asked what impact he hopes the scaled-up program makes, Curry said hes more interested in letting students know theyre not alone.

Its not about the impact. Its about our students knowing that we were there for them during this time, he said. In our community, when students need us most, we have to step up and be there for them, and theyre never going to forget that.

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Martin applauds the efforts of colleges and K-12 schools, which have connected students and their families to food banks, to curb food insecurity during the shutdown. But she also advocates for long-term policies to ensure students have enough food to eat. That includes the Enhance Access to SNAP Act, proposed legislation to remove the barriers that prevent economically disadvantaged college students from utilizing benefits generally  not just during the current crisis.

However, Martin continued, the most important thing that we can do right now in this moment is for these SNAP benefits to be fully funded and for them to go out to students as soon as possible.

Back in Fargo, Jackson has refocused her attention on her coursework now that she has a months worth of food. Still, she worries about the people who couldnt make it to a pantry or that the government will cut other social services she needs. She currently earns $400 monthly working part time as an academic journal editor. The job, which she performs remotely, allows her to attend school and be her daughters primary caretaker when the toddler is not in day care.

If they cut child care, if they cut these programs I rely on, I would have to drop out of school, Jackson said. But Im trying to give my daughter a better life than that.

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Jackson is majoring in university studies with a pre-law emphasis, a dramatic shift from her life before motherhood when she dropped out of school and struggled with addiction. Getting pregnant inspired her to undergo a transformation, which she largely credits to the Jeremiah Program. The national nonprofit provides single mothers with support for college, child care and housing, and it recently started a campaign to raise $190,000 to cover essential needs for families who have lost SNAP and other benefits because of the shutdown. The organization estimates that single-parent families represent nearly a third of families in the United States, with 80 percent of those headed by mothers.

Jackson has been deeply disturbed to see the misperceptions that abound about mothers like herself. Shes encountered online commenters who have characterized SNAP recipients as welfare queens.

If she could confront such individuals in person, Jackson would emphasize how much value mothers add to society. And on top of it we are all in school and working, too, she said. The insinuation is that were just scammers, freeloaders, when, in reality, Im working very hard every day to hopefully not need these supports.

This story was originally reported by Nadra Nittle of The 19th. Meet Nadra and read more of their reporting on gender, politics and policy.
CAIRO (AP)  Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas turns 90 on Saturday, still holding authoritarian power in tiny pockets of the West Bank, but marginalized and weakened by Israel, deeply unpopular among Palestinians, and struggling for a say in a postwar Gaza Strip.

The worlds second-oldest serving president  after Cameroons 92-year-old Paul Biya  Abbas has been in office for 20 years, and for nearly the entire time has failed to hold elections. His weakness has left Palestinians leaderless, critics say, at a time when they face an existential crisis and hopes for establishing a Palestinian state, the centerpiece of Abbas agenda, appear dimmer than ever.

Palestinians say Israels campaign against Hamas that has decimated Gaza amounts to genocide, a view echoed by many international legal experts, organizations and other countries. Israel vehemently denies the accusation and has tightened its lock on the West Bank, where Jewish settlements are expanding and attacks by settlers on Palestinians are increasing. Right-wing allies of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are pressing for outright annexation, a step that would doom any remaining possibility for statehood.

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For now, the U.S. has bent to Israels refusal to allow Abbas Palestinian Authority to govern postwar Gaza. With no effective leader, critics fear Palestinians in the territory will be consigned to live under an international body dominated by Israels allies, with little voice and no real path to statehood.

Abbas has put his head in the sand and has taken no initiative, said Khalil Shikaki, head of the Peoples Company for Polls and Survey Research, a Palestinian pollster.

His legitimacy was depleted long ago," Shikaki told The Associated Press. "He has become a liability to his own party, and for the Palestinians as a whole.

Within the pockets of the West Bank that it administers, the PA is notorious for corruption. Abbas rarely leaves his headquarters in the city of Ramallah, except to travel abroad. He limits decision-making to his tight inner circle, including Hussein al-Sheikh, a longtime confidant whom he named as his designated successor in April.

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An October poll by Shikakis organization found that 80% of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza want Abbas to resign. Only a third want the PA to have full or shared governance of the Gaza Strip. The survey of 1,200 people had a margin of error of 3.5 percentage points.

Arafat's successor

Its a long way from 20 years ago, when Abbas was elected president after the death of Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat amid hopes he could negotiate an independent state.

The first blow came in 2007, when Hamas drove the PA out of the Gaza Strip in a violent takeover. Hamas rule entrenched a split between Gaza and the West Bank, the Israeli-occupied territories that the Palestinians seek for a state.

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Abbas was left in charge of pockets around the West Banks main population centers. But his power is crippled because Israel has a chokehold on the economy, controlling the West Banks resources, most of its land and its access to the outside world.

Netanyahu, who took power in 2009, rejects the creation of a Palestinian state. His strategy from Day 1 has been to weaken the PA, said Ehud Olmert, who preceded Netanyahu as prime minister and perhaps came the closest to reaching a peace deal with Abbas shortly before being forced from office.

Netanyahus aim, Olmert said, is to prevent any genuine chance to come along with some compromise that could have been implemented into a historical agreement.

Cooperation with Israel

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The campaign of weakening the PA comes even though Abbas has abided by a major role demanded by Israel and the international community: security cooperation with Israel. The PA trades intelligence with Israel on militants and often cracks down on armed groups.

To many Palestinians, that makes the PA a subcontractor of the occupation, suppressing opponents while Israel swallows up an increasing amount of the West Bank.

It has chosen to put itself hand-in-hand with the Israeli occupation, even as (Israel) acts to make it more fragile and weaker, said Abdaljawad Omar, an assistant professor of philosophy and cultural studies at the West Banks Bir Zeit University.

Netanyahu frequently accuses Abbas of not genuinely seeking peace and of inciting violence against Israel. Netanyahu's government has repeatedly withheld transfers of tax money that Israel collects for the PA, because of stipends paid to families of those imprisoned or killed by Israel.

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Despite reforms to the stipend system, Israel is withholding some $3 billion, according to the PA. That has worsened an ongoing economic crisis in the West Bank.

Israels campaign against the PA is pushing it to the edge of collapse, said Ghassan Khatib, who was Palestinian planning minister under Abbas in 2005-06.

Khatib defended what Abbas supporters call his policy of practical realism." By working to prevent violence, Abbas has stayed credible on the international stage, he said, trying to build international backing and winning official recognition of a Palestinian state by a growing list of countries.

But that hasnt brought any successful pressure from the U.S. or Europe against Israel to stop settlement expansion or reach a peace deal.

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Preventing alternatives

At a time when Israel's far right is pushing for the eradication of the Palestinians, Omar said, Abbas' pragmatic realism is a form of national suicide.

Fearing rivals, Abbas has prevented wide-scale participation in government, alternative leadership or popular movements even for significant non-violent resistance or civil disobedience against Israel, he said.

Politics has been removed as a way for young people to engage, to stand against occupation, said Omar, who was 17 when Abbas came to office.

Shikaki said Abbas' inaction only fuels support for Hamas, which portrayed its Oct. 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel as aimed at ending Israels occupation.

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Even if some Palestinians believe the attack was disastrous, they see Hamas as trying to do something on behalf of the Palestinian people," he said. "They see Abbas is doing nothing.

Reform attempts

U.S. President Donald Trump's plan calls for an international council to run the Gaza Strip after Hamas is removed, with a Palestinian administration carrying out day-to-day services. It holds out the possibility of the PA taking control if it carries out unspecified reforms to the councils satisfaction.

Abbas has made some gestures toward change.

He has promised legislative and presidential elections within a year after the war in Gaza ends. This week, meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, he announced a Palestinian-French commission to draw up a new constitution. In a high-profile move against corruption, the transport minister was removed in October and put under investigation on allegations of bribery, according to local media.

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Palestinians are skeptical. In the PCPSR poll, 60% of respondents said they doubted Abbas will hold elections. It found that if a vote were held, the clear winner would be Marwan Barghouti, a senior figure from Abbas Fatah faction imprisoned by Israel since 2002. Abbas would come a distant third behind any Hamas candidate.

Ines Abdel Razak, co-director of Palestine Institute for Public Diplomacy advocacy group, said the U.S. and Israel don't have an interest in real democratization..

That would mean all Palestinians would actually have a voice, she said. Any effective ruler would confront the Israeli occupation.

Khatib said Israel will likely be able to keep the PA out of Gaza, since uniting it with the West Bank would only boost Palestinian demands for statehood.

Israel is the party that is calling the shots on the ground, he said.

___

Associated Press writer Josef Federman in Jerusalem contributed to this report.
Cold temperatures and heavy rainfall are worsening already dire conditions for displaced Palestinian families across Gaza, as Israel continues to block the deliveries of tents and other critical shelter supplies into the besieged territory.

Palestinians in Gaza attempted on Saturday to dig trenches around their flimsy tents to keep the water from flooding their tents, as others took shelter in destroyed buildings, even those at risk of collapse.

I have been crying since morning, a displaced Palestinian mother of two told Al Jazeera from Gaza City, pointing to her familys tent, which had been flooded as a result of heavy rainfall overnight.

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The woman, who did not provide her name, said she was struggling to provide for her children after several members of her family, including her husband, were killed in Israels genocidal war, which began in October 2023.

I am asking for help to get a proper tent, a mattress and a blanket. I want my children to have suitable clothes, she said. I dont have anyone to turn to  There is no one to help me.

The severe weather came as humanitarian groups have been warning for weeks that Palestinians living in tent camps and other makeshift shelters do not have what they need to withstand blistering winter conditions in the coastal enclave.

Many have been forcibly displaced multiple times as a result of Israels two-year bombardment of Gaza, which damaged and destroyed more than 198,000 structures across the Strip, according to United Nations figures.





Humanitarian groups have urged Israel to lift all restrictions on aid to the Strip, but the Israeli government has maintained its severe restrictions on the flow of humanitarian aid despite a ceasefire deal with the Palestinian group Hamas that came into effect on October 10.

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Aid groups said earlier this month that about 260,000 Palestinian families in Gaza, totalling almost 1.5 million people, were vulnerable as the cold winter months approached.

Misery on top of misery

At the same time, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) has said it has enough shelter supplies to help as many as 1.3 million Palestinians  but cannot bring them into Gaza due to the Israeli restrictions.

On Saturday, UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini said deliveries were more critical than ever as this winter coincides with Gazas displacement crisis.

Its cold and wet in Gaza. Displaced people are now facing a harsh winter without the basics to protect them from the rain and cold, he said in a social media post.





Describing the humanitarian toll as misery on top of misery, Lazzarini noted that Gazas fragile shelters quickly flood, soaking peoples belongings.

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More shelter supplies are urgently needed for the people, he added.

Reporting from az-Zuwayda in central Gaza, Al Jazeeras Hind Khoudary also said many Palestinians have no other option but to remain in flooded and flimsy tents since their neighbourhoods were destroyed by Israel and shelters are full.

Parents are unable to [buy] their children winter clothes, shoes and slippers, she said. Families are left helpless, without knowing what to do.

Late on Saturday, the Israeli military also fired flares in areas southeast of Khan Younis city, sources in southern Gaza told Al Jazeera. Armies generally launch flares to highlight enemy positions and indicate incoming attacks.

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Earlier, Israeli forces had launched air strikes near southern Khan Younis as well as northern Gaza City.

Despite the guns falling silent in the Gaza Strip, the sound of Israeli air strikes continue behind the yellow line, the boundary set under the first phase of the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, Al Jazeeras Ibrahim al-Khalili said, reporting from Gaza City.

One was in Khan Younis in southern Gaza, and the other happened in the Zeitoun neighbourhood in Gaza City behind the yellow line. The situation is getting much more dire for families who live near this yellow line, including my family, who lives a few metres from the line, he said.

There were no immediate reports of casualties from the attacks.

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According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza, Israeli forces have killed 260 people and wounded 632 others in the territory since the ceasefire came into effect.

Overall, Israels war on Gaza has killed at least 69,182 Palestinians and wounded 170,703 others, according to the ministry.
Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the suspect who targeted and tore apart US Attorney Alina Habbas office is now in custody.

No one will get away with threatening or intimidating our great US Attorneys or the destruction of their offices, Bondi wrote on Saturday on X after revealing the incident the day prior.

Thanks to the great work of @FBI, @USMarshalsHQ, and @HSI_HQ the suspect wanted in the attack on @USAttyHabbas office is now in custody. No one will get away with threatening or intimidating our great US Attorneys or the destruction of their offices.  Attorney General Pamela Bondi (@AGPamBondi) November 15, 2025

Bondi also joined Fox News Sean Hannity on Friday night and vowed that the suspect in custody would be going to prison for as long as we can send him. She called video of the incident chilling.

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A man reportedly showed up to Habbas office in New Jersey wielding a bat. After being denied entry by security, he left and then returned without the bat. The suspect was reportedly let into the building and he proceeded to Habbas office where he destroyed property.

Bondi claimed in her interview with Hannity that the suspect was pacing outside Habbas office like a caged animal and that he tore apart Habbas front office.

Habba, a former legal spokesperson and personal lawyer for President Donald Trump, is currently the acting top prosecutor in New Jersey, though her position is facing legal challenges. Habba took to X to declare she will not be intimidated by radical lunatics after the incident at her office was first announced. She also posted after Bondi announced someone was in custody.

We got him, she wrote. This [Justice Department] and [Attorney General Pam Bondi] and our federal partners will not tolerate any acts of intimidation or violence toward law enforcement.

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She added, Now justice will handle him.

We got him. This @TheJusticeDept under @AGPamBondi and our federal partners will not tolerate any acts of intimidation or violence toward law enforcement. So grateful to @FBI @HSI_HQ and @USMarshalsHQ for their tireless work to capture him. Now justice will handle him. https://t.co/lKgo8RzjZw  US Attorney Habba (@USAttyHabba) November 15, 2025

What we can say is we are finding these people, we are arresting them, and we are charging them. They will go to prison for as long as we can send them, Bondi told Hannity.

Watch above via Fox News.

The post Pam Bondi Says Bat-Wielding Suspect Who Trashed Alina Habba Office Now In Custody first appeared on Mediaite.
Philadelphia Police are investigating a deadly shooting in the city's Ogontz neighborhood.

Shots were fired just after midnight Saturday in the 5900 block of North Lambert Street.

Investigators say they arrived to find a man who had been shot in the head.

No weapon was recovered, but police said they found one shell casing at the scene.

This is an on-going investigation.
A shooting near 27th and Alice avenues in Phoenix has left one man dead, according to police.

At about 6 p.m. on Nov. 14, officers responded to a report of a shooting. When they arrived, they found an adult male, identified as 45-year-old Kevin Mitchell, suffering from at least one gunshot wound, according to Sgt. Rob Scherer.

Mitchell was taken to a hospital but did not survive his injuries, Scherer said.

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Anyone with information regarding this incident was encouraged to call Silent Witness at 480(WITNESS) or 480(TESTIGO) and leave an anonymous tip.

Additionally, police claimed a reward would be paid for information leading to an arrest in this case.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Man killed in Phoenix shooting near 27th and Alice avenues
Phoenix police said one of their officers, not named by the agency, was indicted by a grand jury after speeding and crashing in March.

A Nov. 12 news release stated that the officer was estimated to be driving more than 50 mph over the posted speed limit when they were involved in a crash at Buckeye Road and the access road to Interstate 17. Police said the officer was on duty at the time of the March 14 collision.

The crash occurred at about 12:45 a.m., and the officer, as well as two adults in other involved vehicles, were hospitalized, according to an AZ Family report at the time. The officer was in an SUV that rolled over and came to a stop on its side.

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Phoenix police Sgt. Lorraine Fernandez said in the news release that the crash was investigated and a report was sent to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office for criminal charges. A grand jury charged the officer with aggravated assault and endangerment, according to Fernandez.

A Maricopa County Attorney's Office spokesperson said "there are no documents available at this time." Until the court system made the indictment available, "we have rules regarding disclosing names of defendants," the office said in an email declining to name the officer.

Top stories: Suspect in Surprise stabbing death arrested after release from prison

Phoenix police also declined to provide the officer's name. Police spokesperson Rob Scherer said the officer was still employed and the crash "remains part of an internal investigation."

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The Phoenix police said the department was "committed to accountability and transparency with our community."

"This is a serious matter," the news release said. "Our officers are expected to uphold the same laws they enforce, and when standards are not met, we have an obligation to act. Our responsibility to the community requires that we address this situation openly and directly."

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Phoenix police officer charged after speeding and crashing SUV
Tim Royers, president of the Nebraska State Education Association, and former State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of the Elkhorn area participate in a debate on Nebraska education policy, including school choice, at the 50th annual Nebraska Ecumenical Legislative Briefing Day at Christ United Methodist Church in Lincoln. Feb. 8, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

In late September, Gov. Jim Pillen held a press conference to announce that he would opt Nebraska into the newly created federal school-choice tax credit program.

He could have used that moment to rally Nebraskans around a shared belief that every student in our state deserves support, no matter where they receive their education. Instead, he chose to push a polarizing narrative and double down on his attacks on Nebraska voters.

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While the new federal program is similar to the state tax credit scheme repealed by voters in 2024, there is one crucial difference: unlike Nebraskas now-defunct program, which was built to exclusively subsidize private-school tuition, the federal program allows approved organizations to support all students  including those attending public schools.

If that surprises you, you can thank the governor. He staged his press conference at a private school, deliberately framed the program as a private-school benefit and ignored the broader opportunities available to Nebraska students.

Worse yet, in his executive order he claimed he was opting Nebraska into the program because the Nebraska State Education Association had stolen these opportunities for students by supporting the repeal of Legislative Bill 1402  an accusation that not only distorts the truth but also dismisses the clear mandate delivered by Nebraska voters.

When asked how he could justify the move less than a year after voters rejected school-choice measures, Pillen insisted Nebraskans totally agree with such policies and even claimed some counties voted unanimously to keep LB 1402.

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But more than 80 of Nebraskas 93 counties voted to repeal the law, and even in the handful that supported it, fewer than 60 percent of voters backed keeping the voucher program. Rather than acknowledge the clear message his constituents sent and level with the public about what this federal program actually does, Pillen has instead chosen to advance a political narrative that serves his agenda, not our students.

The reality is that 57 percent of Nebraska voters chose to repeal LB 1402  marking the fourth time Nebraskans have rejected efforts to divert public resources to private schools. Most Nebraskans understand that public resources should stay with our public schools so they can continue serving as the strong community pillars they are.

Thats why, when the Big, Beautiful Bill was debated in the U.S. Senate this summer, Nebraska U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer was one of three Republicans who voted for a bipartisan amendment removing this federal tax credit program from the legislation.

Now that Pillen has proudly cannonballed this federal tax credit program into Nebraska, the genie is out of the bottle. Our priority must be ensuring the program is used in a way that benefits all Nebraska students.

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Under federal law, approved organizations can receive donations for expenses such as tutoring, technology and extended-day programs  costs that impact families regardless of where their children attend school.

Just imagine the good that could be done if the private foundations that support local public schools could apply to become approved organizations and donors could receive a full dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit for supporting students in their own communities.

Unfortunately, while states may approve organizations that serve public schools, nothing requires them to do so. That means Nebraskans will have to again raise their voices and urge the governor to approve organizations that support the overwhelming majority of our students  those attending public schools.

Our focus moving forward is to work with lawmakers to ensure Nebraska has approved organizations that serve all students, regardless of how they receive their education.

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The governor had an opportunity to unite Nebraskans behind that shared goal. Instead, he used the moment to defy a clear message from voters and sow confusion about how this federal program can truly be used.

Every day, hundreds of thousands of students walk through the doors of our public schools to learn and grow. Here at NSEA, we will continue doing everything we can to ensure their needs remain at the center of decision-making in Nebraska.

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LEWISTOWN, Ill. (WMBD)  A Canton man was arrested after a police chase just after midnight.

Scotty M. Bruketta, 42, was arrested on multiple charges, including reckless driving, aggravated fleeing, and possession of meth, according to a Facebook post by the Lewistown Police Department.

At 12:15 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 15, officers tried to conduct a traffic stop on a motorcycle in the area of East Avenue E and South Illinois Street. The driver, later identified as Bruketta, allegedly fled on U.S. Highway 24, going more than 100 miles per hour.

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Lewistown police officers chased the motorcycle and were assisted by Fulton County Sheriffs Office deputies.

The chase came to an end when the motorcycle crashed at the intersection of Highway 24 and Illinois Route 9.

Bruketta was checked by Fulton County EMS before being taken to the Fulton 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 CIProud.com.
Individuals bearing the name Naaman typically exhibit personality traits that reflect both the name's literal meaning of 'pleasant' and the characteristics demonstrated by its most famous biblical bearer. They often possess a naturally agreeable and diplomatic nature, able to navigate social situations with grace and maintain harmonious relationships. This pleasant disposition is frequently complemented by a strong sense of integrity and determination, much like the biblical Naaman who demonstrated both initial pride and eventual humility in pursuing healing. Naamans tend to be practical problem-solvers who approach challenges methodically rather than impulsively.



Their personality often combines social warmth with inner resilience, making them both likable and dependable. They typically value tradition and stability while being open to new experiences that align with their principles. When faced with adversity, Naamans often demonstrate the same perseverance shown by their namesake, willing to undertake difficult journeys or humble themselves when necessary to achieve important goals. Their combination of social intelligence and moral conviction often makes them effective in roles requiring both interpersonal skills and strong ethical grounding, whether in leadership positions, community roles, or personal relationships.
NORTH OLMSTED, Ohio (WJW)  North Olmsted police are asking for the publics help in the search for a man who went missing last week.

Find out more about local missing cases

Ronald Rees has not been seen since Nov. 5 but was reported missing on Nov. 12, police said, sharing a photo of what he looks like:

Ronald Rees. North Olmsted police

Rees was reportedly last seen in a grey T-shirt, sweatshirt, khaki work pants and black boots.

Police said his cell phone has been turned off this whole time and he recently received some bad news [about] his health and is known to be a heavy drinker.

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Those who may have information about Rees are asked to reach out to police at 440-777-3535.

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Nov. 15 (UPI) -- Pope Leo XIV on Saturday returned 62 Indigenous people's artifacts held for more than 100 years by the Vatican to leaders of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops.

The pope, meeting with the high clergy members in the Vatican, fulfilled a promise made by his predecessor, Pope Francis, who died on April 21.

The original inhabitants of Canada are the First Nations, Inuit and Metis, who comprise 1.8 million people, or 5% of the total population.

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The CCCB said in a joint statement with the Vatican that it is "committed to ensuring that these artifacts are properly safeguarded, respected and preserved."

In early December, after being packaged, they will be taken to the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, Quebec, where the museum curators will examine and catalog them before they are delivered to Indigenous groups across the country.

They will be returned to the National Indigenous Organizations, who "will then ensure that the artifacts are reunited with their communities of origin," CCCB said in a news release

Leo XIV met with three members of the Canadian clergy -- Bishop Pierre Goudreault, the CCCB president; Archbishop Richard Smith; and Father Jean Vezina, general secretary of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops -- according to the Vatican.

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"The Holy Father's gift is a tangible sign of his desire to help Canada's Bishops walk alongside Indigenous Peoples in a spirit of reconciliation during the Jubilee Year of Hope and beyond," Goudreault said.

"As CCCB President, I would like to thank the National Indigenous Organizations for their openness and collaboration in this work. I assure them of the Church's unwavering commitment to reconciliation," he added.

In the joint CCCB-Vatican statement, Holy See officials said that "His Holiness Pope Leo XIV desires that this gift represent a concrete sign of dialogue, respect and fraternity."

"This is an act of ecclesial sharing, with which the Successor of Peter entrusts to the Church in Canada these artifacts, which bear witness to the history of the encounter between faith and the cultures of the indigenous peoples," the Vatican said.

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The artifacts were part of the Vatican Missionary Exhibition of 1925, encouraged by Pope Pius XI during the Holy Year "to bear witness to the faith and cultural richness of peoples," according to the Vatican.

The artifacts were subsequently combined with those of the Church's Lateran Ethnological Missionary Museum.

According to the Vatican, returning the artifacts "takes place amid the Jubilee of 2025, which celebrates hope, and the centenary of the Vatican Missionary Exhibition."

Indigenous communities for years have been asking to have the items returned.

In spring 2022, community representatives visited the Vatican for meetings with Pope Francis before his trip to Canada in 2023, which included visiting the Vatican Museums and receiving a private tour of the collection.

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"This is the Seventh Commandment: If you have stolen something, you must give it back," Francis said at the time.

In 2024, then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Francis during the G-7 meeting in Italy and urged him to make good on returning the artifacts, which include an Inuvialuit kayak once used for beluga and whale hunts, according to Canada's embassy.

"This is historic, something Indigenous communities have been asking for," said Joyce Napier, Canadian ambassador to the Holy See.

"A big part of the mandate of the Canadian embassy to the Holy See, when I took on this job, was to advance reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. It was a priority for the government. Today's announcement is a significant step towards reconciliation."
NEW YORK (AP)  Central Parks iconic horse-drawn carriages will trot on, for now.

A proposal to ban the popular tourist attractions that have been fixtures in Central Park for more than 150 years failed to clear a key New York City Council committee on Friday.

The councils Committee on Health voted against sending the proposal to the full council for its consideration following a packed hearing.

The Transport Workers Union of America, which represents horse carriage workers, applauded the panel for standing up for their members.

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They are hardworking immigrants who take good care of their horses, and have consistently been attacked and slandered by monied interests who care nothing about animal welfare, John Samuelsen, the unions president, said in a statement.

But animal rights advocates who have long called for ending the industry, derided the vote as a sham as they vowed to continue their fight.

The debate over the popular tourist draw was revived over the summer when a carriage horse collapsed and died near its stables, with videos and photos of the animals body in a city street circulating widely online.

Critics say carriage horses can get easily spooked on city streets, leading to accidents and injuries. They also say the horses are overworked and live in inadequate stables, and that their drivers flaunt city regulations, including leaving behind piles of horse manure.

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Horses have collapsed, even dropped dead on the streets recently. Multiple horses have had violent runaway spooking incidents, crashing into vehicles, sending New Yorkers to the hospital, and nearly trampling others, New Yorkers for Clean, Livable, and Safe Streets, or NYCLASS, said in a Friday statement.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams said city lawmakers ignored the opinions of the vast majority of New Yorkers who want the industry ended. The outgoing Democrat threw his support behind the proposed ban in recent months and issued an executive order stepping up enforcement of the industry,

Its a shame that the City Council has once again refused to follow the will of our citizens, while simultaneously endangering pedestrians, drivers, and animals alike, Adams said in a statement.

The councils Democratic leadership has long resisted calls to hold a public hearing and vote on the proposal, which calls for winding down the industry as early as next summer.

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Fridays vote was instead instigated by the bills sponsor, who invoked a procedural rule to force a committee vote.

This was one of the most undemocratic displays I have ever witnessed in the New York City Council, Council Member Robert Holden, an outgoing Queens Democrat, said in a statement after his bid was denied. The Council could not care less what New Yorkers think.

Benjamin Fang-Estrada, a spokesperson for City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, suggested Holden simply failed to do the legislative work of building support among his colleagues.

The Council recognizes that this is a difficult and emotional issue, and any path forward requires a sponsor bringing all parties together in a constructive way, he said in an emailed statement.

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The Central Park Conservancy, the influential nonprofit that manages the 843-acre (341-hectare) park, also came out in support of an industry ban, citing its outsized impact on public safety and road infrastructure in the increasingly crowded park.

___

Follow Philip Marcelo at https://x.com/philmarcelo
MEXICO CITY (AP)  Several thousand people took to the streets of Mexico City on Saturday to protest crime, corruption and impunity in a demonstration organized by members of Generation Z, but which ended with strong backing from older supporters of opposition parties.

The demonstration was mostly peaceful but ended with some young people clashing with the police. Protesters attacked police with stones, fireworks, sticks and chains, grabbing police shields and other equipment.

The capitals security secretary, Pablo Vazquez. said 120 people were injured, 100 of them police officers. Twenty people were arrested.

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In several countries this year, members of the demographic group born between the late 1990s and early 2010s have organized protests against inequality, democratic backsliding and corruption.

The largest "Gen Z protests took place in Nepal in September, following a ban on social media, and led to the resignation of that nations prime minister. In Mexico, many young people say they are frustrated with systemic problems like corruption and impunity for violent crimes.

We need more security said Andres Massa, a 29-year-old business consultant who carried the pirate skull flag that has become a global symbol of Gen Z protests.

Arizbeth Garcia, a 43-year-old physician who joined the protests said she was marching for more funding for the public health system, and for better security because doctors are also exposed to the insecurity gripping the country, where you can be murdered and nothing happens.

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Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum still has high approval ratings despite a recent spate of high profile murders that includes the assassination of a popular mayor in the western state of Michoacan.

In the days leading up to Saturdays protest, Sheinbaum accused right-wing parties of trying to infiltrate the Gen Z movement, and of using bots on social media to try to increase attendance.

This week some Gen Z social media influencers said they no longer backed Saturdays protests. While elderly figures like former President Vicente Fox, and Mexican billionaire Ricardo Salinas Pliego published messages in support of the protests.

Saturdays march was attended by people from several age groups, with supporters of the recently killed Michoacan Mayor Carlos Manzo, attending the protest wearing the straw hats that symbolize his political movement.

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The state is dying, said Rosa Maria Avila, a 65-year-old real estate agent who traveled from the town of Patzcuaro in Michoacan state.

He was killed because he was a man who was sending officers into the mountains to fight delinquents. He had the guts to confront them, she said of Manzo.
OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma, blamed for helping to fuel a deadly opioid crisis, said Friday that a US bankruptcy judge will sign off on a deal to settle thousands of lawsuits against the company, which will cease to exist.

Purdue and other opioid makers and distributors were accused of encouraging free-wheeling prescription of their products through aggressive marketing tactics while hiding how addictive the drugs are.

Earlier this year, several US states reached a $7.4 billion settlement with the Sackler family and Purdue, the company they owned for decades, that will see funds routed to affected communities and individuals.

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Federal judge Sean Lane said in a New York court that he would sign off on the company Chapter 11 plan, with a formal ruling expected at a hearing on Tuesday.

"Today cements the end of a long chapter, and brings us very near to the end of the book for Purdue," board chairman Steve Miller said in a statement. "Soon, Purdue will cease to exist."

"We will now commence the process of satisfying all outstanding requirements for Purdue to emerge from bankruptcy so that resources from the settlements can flow to communities across America as quickly as possible," he said.

The Sacklers will pay $6.5-7.0 billion while the company will pay $900 million.

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A separate fund of $865 million will be created to compensate victims.

The remnants of Purdue will become Knoa Pharma, a company owned by a foundation, that will provide opioid use disorder treatments and overdose reversal medicines, "with no obligation to maximize profits," the company said.

For many people, opioid addiction begins with prescribed pain pills, such as OxyContin, before they increase their consumption and eventually turn to illicit drugs such as heroin and fentanyl, an extremely powerful synthetic opioid.

The Sacklers have consistently denied wrongdoing over the opioid crisis.

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The company statement says the family "have had no involvement in Purdue since the end of 2018," while officials said the January settlement had ended the Sacklers' control of Purdue Pharma.

elm/sst/dw
The two discussed Gaza in the context of the implementation of the ceasefire agreement, the exchange of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, the status of Iran's nuclear program, and more.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed developments in the Middle East in a phone call on Saturday, the Prime Minister's Office and the Kremlin said in a joint statement.

The two focused on the situation in the Gaza Strip, especially regarding the implementation of the ceasefire agreement and the exchange of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners.

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The pair also discussed the status of Iran's nuclear program and issues related to further stabilization efforts in Syria.

The Prime Minister's Office said that the conversation took place at the Russian leader's request.

The Kremlin called the conversation "a thorough exchange of views."

Benjamin Netanyahu, Vladimir Putin (credit: REUTERS)

Russia, Israel touch base on Gaza War

The two previously spoke on the phone last month about the US brokered ceasefire deal, with the Russian leader reaffirming Moscow's position "in favor of a comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian issue."

Like their discussion on Saturday, their conversation last month tackled issues surrounding Iran and Syria. Before October, the two had spoken on the phone in August.

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KAN News reported earlier this year that Netanyahus office has been working closely with Russia in an effort to resolve several different issues, including the tension between the US and Russia following Putins insistence on continuing the war in Ukraine.

This also comes after Russia proposed its own draft of a UN resolution on Gaza on Thursday in a challenge to a US effort to pass its own text at the Security Council that would endorse the US-brokered Gaza deal.

Russia's UN mission said in a note to Security Council members on Thursday afternoon, seen by Reuters, that its "counter-proposal is inspired by the US draft."

"The objective of our draft is to enable the Security Council to develop a balanced, acceptable, and unified approach toward achieving a sustainable cessation of hostilities," the note said.

The Russian draft, also seen by Reuters, requests that the UN Secretary-General identify options for an international stabilization force for Gaza, and does not mention the "Board of Peace" that the US has proposed as a transitional administration for Gaza.
The Trump administrations clemency drive is coming under scrutiny after the justice department this week replaced pardons posted online that bore strikingly similar copies of Trumps signature with others that are distinctively variable.

The corrections came after online commenters seized on the similarities in the presidents signature granting full and unconditional pardons to seven men, including to former New York Mets player Darryl Strawberry, former Tennessee House speaker Glen Casada and former New York police sergeant Michael McMahon, on 7 November.

Administration officials have blamed technical errors and staffing issues for the apparent oversight and insisted to the Associated Press that Trump had originally signed all the pardons himself.

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Chad Gilmartin, a justice department spokesperson, said the website was updated after a technical error where one of the signatures President Trump personally signed was mistakenly uploaded multiple times due to staffing issues caused by the Democrat shutdown.

There is no story here other than the fact that President Trump signed seven pardons by hand and [the Department of Justice] posted those same seven pardons with seven unique signatures to our website, Gilmartin said in a statement to the Associated Press, referring to the latest wave of clemency Trump has granted in recent weeks.

White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson wrote in an email that Trump signed each one of these pardons by hand as he does with all pardons.

The media should spend their time investigating Joe Bidens countless autopenned pardons, not covering a non-story, she wrote.

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The errors come after a sustained administration campaign to undermine the validity of pardons issued by Trumps predecessor Joe Biden that were in many cases signed by autopen. Trump has claimed that Biden was not aware of the signatures on orders and pardons bearing his name.

Trump, who typically makes an elaborate show of signing executive orders with a Sharpie at afternoon press calls, has gone so far as to replace Bidens portrait in a new Presidential Walk of Fame he created along the West Wing colonnade with a picture of an autopen.

Asked last week whether he had considered replacing that image with a portrait, Trump responded: No, I dont think so.

Questions about Trumps signature come amid a new flurry of clemency orders. Last month, Trump issued a pardon to Changpeng Zhao, later telling CBS News that he had no idea who he is but had been told the crypto-currency businessman was a victim of a witch-hunt by the Biden administration.

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Zhao, who is also known as CZ, pleaded guilty to enabling money laundering in 2023. He served four months in prison and agreed to step down as the chief executive of Binance, the crypto exchange he co-founded.

A basic axiom of handwriting identification science is that no two signatures are going to bear the exact same design features in every aspect, Thomas Vastrick, a Florida-based handwriting expert and president of the American Society of Questioned Document Examiners, told the AP.

Its very straightforward, Vastrick added.

Legal experts say the use of an autopen has no bearing on the validity of the pardons.

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The key to pardon validity is whether the president intended to grant the pardon, said Frank Bowman, a legal historian and professor emeritus at the University of Missouri School of Law who is writing a book on pardons. Any re-signing is an obvious, and rather silly, effort to avoid comparison to Biden.

The pardons issued by Trump earlier this month include Casada, a disgraced former Republican speaker of the Tennessee house who was sentenced in September to three years in prison after being convicted of working with a former legislative aide to win taxpayer-funded mail business from state lawmakers who previously drove Casada from office amid a sexting scandal.

Strawberry was convicted in the 1990s of tax evasion and drug charges. McMahon was sentenced to 18 months in prison earlier this year for his role in what a federal judge called a campaign of transnational repression.

On Friday, Trump issued a pardon to Dan Wilson, a militia member who joined the Capitol riot on 6 January 2021, on a conviction for felony gun possession, Politico reported. Wilson, who has identified himself as a member of the Oath Keepers and Gray Ghost Partisan Rangers militia, had already been given clemency for his involvement in the riot.

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The justice departments replacement of Trumps signature on the pardon documents is unlikely to stall Republicans autopen trolling of Biden.

Last month, Republicans in Congress released a sharp critique of Bidens alleged diminished faculties and mental state during his term that ranked the Democrats use of the autopen among the greatest scandals in US history.

The Republicans said their findings cast doubt on all of Bidens actions in office and sent a letter to the US attorney general, Pam Bondi, urging a full investigation.

Senior White House officials did not know who operated the autopen and its use was not sufficiently controlled or documented to prevent abuse, the House oversight committee found. The committee deems void all executive actions signed by the autopen without proper, corresponding, contemporaneous, written approval traceable to the presidents own consent.

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On Friday, Republicans who control the committee released a statement that characterized Trumps potential use of an electronic signature as legitimate, which it distinguished from Bidens.

Dave Min, a California Democrat on the House oversight committee, seized on the apparent similarities in the initial version of the pardons and called for an investigation of the matter, deploying the Republican arguments against Biden in a statement to AP that we need to better understand who is actually in charge of the White House, because Trump seems to be slipping.

The Associated Press contributed reporting

The best public interest journalism relies on first-hand accounts from people in the know.

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Nov. 15 (UPI) -- SpaceX launched two rockets with a total of 58 Starlink Internet satellites about 3 1/2 hours apart overnight Saturday in the private company's quickest turnaround from Florida's Space Coast.

In all, there have been a record 98 missions this year from the adjacent Kennedy Space Center or Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The record of 94 was broken on Monday.

Originally, there was supposed to be a 48-minute turnaround but the second launch was delayed by 2 hours and 49 minutes.

Falcon 9 launches back-to-back missions from Florida, delivering 58 @Starlink satellites to orbit pic.twitter.com/tiwuiXH7NL SpaceX (@SpaceX) November 15, 2025

The two launches at 10:08 p.m. EST Friday and 1:44 a.m. Saturday -- split by three hours and 36 minutes -- beat the doubleheader turnaround of 4 hours and 12 minutes by SpaceX in March 2023. The launches were under clear skies, Florida Today reported.

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In 1966, NASA launched two spacecraft 1 hour and 37 minutes apart in Florida with Gemini 11 crew and its Agena target vehicle, which was used to practice orbital space rendezvous and docking techniques.

It is not the quickest doubleheader by SpaceX but the other one occurred in different states.

On Aug. 31, 2024, two Falcon 9 missions were just 65 minutes apart. One flew from Cape Canaveral and the other lifted off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

Both first stages in Florida landed on droneships in the Atlantic east of The Bahamas.

Watch Falcon 9 launch 29 @Starlink satellites to orbit from pad 39A in Florida https://t.co/huRjJjzBHW SpaceX (@SpaceX) November 15, 2025

The first Falcon 9 lifted off from Pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center. The Falcon 9's first stage landed in the Atlantic Ocean on drone ship "A Shortfall of Gravitas" about 8.5 minutes after liftoff. It was the eighth mission for the first stage.

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The second Falcon 9 went off from Cape Canaveral's Pad 40. About 8 1/2 minutes later, the first stage landed on the drone ship "Read the Instructions" and was the 24th mission, including Crew-6.

Watch Falcon 9 launch our second @Starlink mission of the evening from pad 40 in Florida https://t.co/ayvAvIUtVd SpaceX (@SpaceX) November 15, 2025

The first-stage rockets are refurbished at Hangar X.

"It was less than 10 years ago when the idea of recovering a 1st stage was extremely controversial," Stoke Space CEO and co-founder Andy Lapsa said in a post on X. "Now it's absurd to even consider anything else.

"Today, the same skepticism surrounds 2nd stage reuse, but it won't be long until that, too, is archaic."

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He shared video footage of Blue Origin's New Glenn booster landing Thursday.

The New Glenn launch was part of a doubleheader at Cape Canaveral, which were 6 hours and 9 minutes apart.

The New Glenn rocket deployed NASA's Mars-bound ESCAPADE spacecraft into low-Earth orbit at 3:55 p.m. Then at 10:04 p.m., United Launch Alliance sent up an Atlas V rocket, deploying a Viasat communications satellite.

With the two launches, there are now more than 8,900 operational Starlink satellites.

The next mission from Florida is scheduled for Tuesday with a launch window of 6:29 p.m. to 10:29 p.m. from Cape Canaveral's Pad 40.
This article was first published in the On the Hill newsletter. Sign up to receive the newsletter in your inbox on Friday mornings here.

After 43 days with the governments lights off, Im sure at least one sentiment is shared among both parties: Lets never do that again.

It shattered the previous record of a 35-day long shutdown during the first Trump administration, and initial reports predict it cost the U.S. up to $30 billion in economic activity. Millions of families experienced food insecurity and federal workers across the country went without paychecks.

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To say the least, it was a rough time. So now lawmakers are beginning to reflect on the lessons learned  and how we avoid a similar shutdown in the future. (Remember: Next deadline is in January.)

Hopefully theres lessons learned for my Democratic colleagues. This was largely used as a messaging opportunity, Rep. Blake Moore, R-Utah, told my colleague Jason Swensen in Utah this week. Democrats wanted the longest shutdown in history to be able to try to blame Republicans for health care costs.  And we used hard-working Americans,  federal workers, military service members, air traffic controllers  used their pay as leverage to get that message out, and hopefully they recognize that they didnt get any farther doing that, than not."

That sentiment was shared among many lawmakers. Essentially: Lets not use federal workers as bargaining chips.

Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah, told my colleague Brigham Tomco this week that although shutdowns have traditionally been a Republican tool one of the problems is that a shutdown punishes the wrong people.

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We also might see some new legislation popping up over the next few weeks seeking to change how shutdowns work. Weve seen bills in the past, including from Curtis, that would create a baseline budget that restarts each fiscal year, leaving the current spending levels intact unless Congress passes a new budget. That way, wed avoid a shutdown altogether.

Other senators have introduced bills like the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act and Ban Government Shutdowns Act to do similar things. Essentially, you would just see funding levels continue until a new budget is passed.

Meanwhile, some lawmakers want to pass certain guardrails to prevent the mass food insecurity and financial strain that millions of people experienced over the last few weeks.

Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., said that should be addressed: This has been a harrowing experience for tens of millions of Americans, and we have to make sure if this ever happens again, that federal food assistance doesnt lapse. And maybe we just need to take that off the table.

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Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., told a few reporters that if he were king for a day, he would make it so members of Congress cant be paid and members of Congress cannot leave (Washington, D.C.) unless theres a family emergency.

I think if you did that, you would really shorten the shutdown substantially, I really do, he said.

Ive heard those kinds of ideas from several lawmakers over the course of the shutdown, and many  including some in the Utah delegation  refused to accept their constitutionally mandated paychecks for the duration of the closure.

When I asked some appropriators what they wanted done differently in the future, they mostly just wanted more time to work.

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In the end, youve just got to do the work. We got all the bills done, Rep. Tom Cole, R-Okla., who leads the House Appropriations Committee, told me this week. Ive talked to our leadership, we need more floor time, just to be honest with you, to get these bills out there.

The motivation right now is obviously high to make some changes after coming out of the six-week shutdown, but well have to watch and see if any of these stick.

 Cami Mondeaux, with some help from friends.

Stories driving the week

Shutdown is over: President Donald Trump signed the spending resolution to reopen the government until the end of January, officially ending the 43-day shutdown that has plagued the federal government and brought agencies across the country to a halt. Blue-tah? A district court judge rejected a new congressional map drawn by the Utah Legislature on Monday night in favor of one provided by nonprofit groups that likely ensures a Democratic seat in Salt Lake County. Epstein files: The discharge petition to force a vote on releasing the Epstein files received its 218th and final signature after the swearing-in of Arizona Rep. Adelita Grijalva on Wednesday. A vote is expected next week.

House got jammed by Senate  they want to jam back

The deal to open the government seemed to come together rather quickly. And because of that, the Senate managed to sneak in some language to the spending bill that is not going over well with their Republican counterparts in the House.

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Catch up: Tucked into the funding bill to reopen the government is a provision that would allow senators to sue any federal department or agency for seizing phone records without prior notice  with each payment coming out to $500,000 per violation. The language came in direct response to revelations earlier this year that former special counsel Jack Smith had obtained phone records of eight senators without their knowledge as part of his investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, riot.

The only problem? They didnt tell House Republicans this would be in there. And boy are they upset about it.

I think theres gonna be a lot of people, if they look and understand this, are gonna see it as self-serving, self-dealing kind of stuff, Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, said on Tuesday. Its why people have such a low opinion of this town.

It even prompted Rep. Greg Steube, R-Fla., to switch his vote on the spending resolution and vote against it on Wednesday.

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House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., sought to quell that anger, telling reporters he was frustrated, too. So, the top House Republican is going to bring up a bill next week to repeal that provision.

But  that would need to be approved by Republicans in the Senate, who wanted this language in the first place. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., specifically approved the language in the bill, according to Politico, making it uncertain if he would even bring that bill to the Senate floor for a vote.

Its something to watch for  and something that will likely cause some fighting between the two chambers.

Quick hits

From the Hill: Ben McAdams launches comeback bid.  Another state Democrat jumps into the race to flip Utah House seat.  Republicans eye health care reform as Democrats push to extend Obamacare subsidies.

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From the White House: Trump asks Israeli president to pardon Netanyahus corruption charges from 2020.  Epstein emails show correspondence with Trump in yearslong exchange.  Trump issues mass pardons to allies in 2020 election probe.

From the courts: Reagan-appointed federal judge resigns citing Trumps assault on the rule of law.  Supreme Court hears arguments on religious liberty in prison.  Supreme Court rejects case challenging same-sex marriage.

Whats next

We are so back. The House will return Monday and will be in session all week. We expect votes on Epstein files, reversing that Senate phone-records provision, and other bills that have been collecting dust for 53 days.

The Senate is back Tuesday afternoon. Theyll keep going through some lower-level nomination votes.

As always, feel free to reach out to me by email with story ideas or questions you have for lawmakers. And follow me on X for breaking news and timely developments from the Hill.
President Donald Trumps push for red states to redraw their congressional maps to give Republicans a greater advantage in the 2026 midterms has suffered a new blow.

Republicans in Indiana have defied pressure from the White House and shut the door on any plan to alter the states voting boundaries.

Indiana Senate President pro tempore Rodric Bray announced on Friday that the plan lacked sufficient support, so the state Senate would not reconvene next month to address it.

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The setback in a state Trump won last year by 36 points was the latest in a series for the president, who has been pressuring Republicans across the country to expand the number of red districts as the party faces strong headwinds ahead of next years election.

GOP Governor Mike Braun called a special session to redraw the states map amid pressure from the Trump administration. Vice President JD Vance met with state Republicans twice in the last few months.

Indiana GOP Gov. Mike Braun called a special session to redraw the states House map, but Republicans in the state wont move forward because they do not have the votes. / Michael Gard/Post-Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images

However, even as Braun pushed to move forward with the plan, Republican members were already bucking Washington. At least eight state Senate Republicans had come out against it.

Over the last several months, Senate Republicans have given very serious and thoughtful consideration to the concept of redrawing our states congressional maps. Today, Im announcing there are not enough votes to move that idea forward, Bray said in a statement provided to the Daily Beast.

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Soon after Brays announcement, Trump allies turned their wrath on him for state Republicans snubbing the pressure campaign.

The presidents former campaign co-manager Chris LaCivita wrote in an X post that Bray was announcing his retirement.

Another Trump adviser Alex Bruesewitz blasted a monumental betrayal in Indiana and wrote that spineless RINO legislators have sabotaged and buried Republicans vital redistricting push.

It comes after Trumps gerrymandering push ahead of the midterms hit another snag in Utah. State Judge Dianna Gibson this week struck down the Republican attempt to draw an all-red congressional map.

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Instead, Democrats are expected to gain one new House seat in Salt Lake City, which voted for Kamala Harris last year after the judge ruled the new maps violated the states anti-gerrymandering rules.

Last week, California voters overwhelmingly backed Democratic Governor Gavin Newsoms plan to redraw districts in the deep blue state in an effort to help Democrats in response to Trumps demand for gerrymandering in red states.

Proposition 50 would allow the state to temporarily redraw its congressional maps for 2026 and 2030 in response to the mid-decade redistricting carried out by Texas Republicans at Trumps behest earlier this year.

Newsom argued it was the only way for blue states to fight back against the efforts in red states and Trumps agenda, after Texas added as many as five red seats, Ohio added two and Missouri and North Carolina each added one ahead of next years midterms.

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The Justice Department filed a lawsuit in response to California voters passing Prop 50. Attorney General Pam Bondi called Newsoms move immoral and illegal.

Newsoms office fired back at the administration, saying, these losers lost at the ballot box and soon they will also lose in court.

Ahead of Indiana announcing it would not move forward with the plan to redraw maps, Cook Political Reports Election Analyst Dave Wasserman noted that Democrats had been quietly stringing together victories that had pushed the mid-decade redistricting war closer to a draw.

Two states where the effort to redraw maps remains to be seen as the midterm year approaches are Virginia and Florida. Leaders in both the blue state and red state have been preparing to make moves in response to Trumps demand.
Individuals named Paella are typically characterized by their protective and nurturing nature, often assuming the role of guardian within their social and family circles. They possess a strong sense of responsibility and are known for their loyalty and commitment to those they care about. Their personality often reflects the symbolic meaning of their name, as they naturally provide emotional and practical support to others, creating a sense of security and stability in their relationships.



Paellas tend to be deeply spiritual and introspective, with a quiet strength that others find comforting. They are often patient listeners and wise counselors, drawing on their inner resilience to guide others through challenges. While they may appear reserved initially, they form deep, meaningful connections and are fiercely protective of their loved ones. Their combination of practical wisdom and emotional intelligence makes them natural leaders in community and religious settings.
Closures and detours are coming to two bridges that run over Interstate 84 in the Treasure Valley, the Idaho Transportation Department announced Friday.

Road work will affect the I-184 Connector in Boise and the Karcher Interchange in Nampa  plus travel for the more than 130,000 vehicles that make trips along the Interstate between Boise and Nampa daily.

Starting Monday, ITD will institute lane reductions on the Flying Wye Interchange for two weeks to treat its asphalt and repaint the road, according to a news release from the department.

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The first phase of work will involve nightly lane reductions from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Crews will perform micro milling, a process that removes the top layer of pavement.

In a second phase, crews will repaint the interchanges lanes  a process that must be done during the day when temperatures are warm enough for the paint to set properly, according to ITD.

An ITD spokesperson did not immediately respond Friday to an email inquiry from the Idaho Statesman seeking clarity on how long each phase would last and during what hours the daytime striping would occur.

The Flying Wye connects drivers exiting downtown Boise on the Connector to I-84, and vice versa. Its one of the most congested roads in the Treasure Valley, with nearly 150,000 vehicles a day traveling the stretch between the Flying Wye and the Eagle Road Interchange.

Traffic sits on the Interstate 1-84 Connector heading into downtown Boise.

More closures at Nampa I-84 interchange

Monday will also mark the start of the latest round of closures as ITD continues upgrading I-84s Karcher Road Interchange in Nampa.

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The Karcher overpass will close on Monday and Tuesday nights from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., forcing detours for drivers traveling on Karcher Road, also known as Idaho 55.

The closures will allow ITD to remove large steel structures that now hold signs above the bridge, according to ITD. Those will be replaced with updated signs reflecting the bridges new lane configuration.

ITD instructs drivers to make the following detours.

Drivers traveling south on Karcher Road:

Travel south on the Karcher Bypass.

Turn right onto West Karcher Road.

Turn left onto Midland Boulevard.

Turn right onto Caldwell Boulevard.

Continue straight to Karcher Road.

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Drivers traveling north on Karcher Road:

Use the eastbound on-ramp to merge on to Interstate 84.

Exit I-84 at Northside Boulevard (Exit 35).

Travel north on Northside Boulevard.

Turn left onto Karcher Road/Karcher Bypass.

Drivers on Karcher Road will have to follow detours on Monday and Tuesday.

More construction, closures on Idaho 16 near Boise. This round will be noisy

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Morning Joe host Joe Scarborough said President Trumps coalition would end with his administration, just like the coalitions of former Presidents Reagan and Obama did.

The Trump coalition is the Trump coalition, just as Ive said a million times, the MSNBC host said Friday. The Reagan coalition was the Reagan coalition. The Obama coalition was the Obama coalition.

The Trump coalition ends when Donald Trump is off the scene, he said. And we see it with the Republicans losing in 2017, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, now 25. When Donald Trumps not on the ballot, that coalition stays home.

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Scarboroughs comments come after several wins for Democrats in prominent elections last week, including the Virginia and New Jersey governor elections. Democrats also won seats in local races across the country, including in Virginia.

Scarborough praised Democrats incredible victories, calling them historic.

You look at Virginia, my gosh, county by county, by county, everything is sweeping away from Republicans, Scarborough said.

He referenced Trumps low approval ratings across several polls, pointing at the presidents lack of popularity. He also added that Republican lawmakers may be feeling wary of the president now.

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When your party gets walloped, very quickly people are like, OK, yeah, we got to take care of ourselves because the guy on the other end of Pennsylvania Avenue is not going to do it, Scarborough said. Well, thats exactly what the Republicans are starting to think right now on Capitol Hill.

The Decision Desk HQ polling average this week showed Trump has hit his lowest approval rating since entering office for his second term.

He said Democrats had won the government shutdown, again citing public opinion surveys.

For Democrats that are too stupid to realize you won the government shutdown, dont be stupid, he said. You won the government shutdown.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
It's four steps down, 18 to go.

Three towns in Oxford County took the fourth step last week when voters approved a referendum article to pursue withdrawal from Regional School Unit 10.

The long path ahead is now set. The Maine Department of Education has outlined a 22step timeline that towns must follow to withdraw from a school district. The first step came when an ad hoc committee was formed to explore secession.

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The Nov. 4 vote marked the fourth step. The total vote was 920 in favor and 609 opposed.

If the process runs its course, the next time voters in the three towns would be involved is the 16th step, which is holding a special town meeting in each community to vote on the agreement of withdrawal. If the agreement passes, the final six steps would involve certification and notification of the results.

Special town meeting votes do not always match early referendum results, but for now the three towns have voted to pursue withdrawal.

The Nov. 4 votes pushed the project into the fifth step, requiring town clerks to officially notify Superintendent Deborah Alden of RSU 10 and Commissioner Pender Makin of the Maine Department of Education of the results. The commissioner, in turn, is expected to direct the towns to appoint a committee to prepare an agreement of withdrawal.

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That is the sixth step, and it could come quickly.

Neither the town of Buckfield nor RSU 10 responded to requests for information about whether step five had been taken. According to the Buckfield town website, notification of the referendum vote was sent to Makin on Nov. 5. The Department of Education has not confirmed receiving the notice.

Neal Austin of Buckfield, chair of the Education Ad Hoc Exploration Committee that prepared the referendum question, declined an interview request for this story. He said he wanted to wait until the select boards of all three towns have hired a lawyer and have actually started the process, and there has been approval from the lawyer and select boards for comments.

When the notice is received and the commissioner has directed the formation of a committee to draft the withdrawal agreement, 16 additional steps will follow, including public hearings, special town meetings and other requirements.

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If, at the end of the 22step process, the three towns secede from the Western Foothills School District, it will be the third secession since the district began operating in 2009. That would leave a consolidated district that started with 12 towns serving just four: Hanover, Mexico, Roxbury and Rumford.

Byron, the smallest town in the original district, with a population of about 145, left in 2018. Its students now attend schools in other districts on a tuition basis.

A year earlier, four towns withdrew from RSU 10 and formed Regional School Unit 56: Canton, Carthage, Dixfield and Peru. They had been part of Maine School Administrative District 21 before being absorbed into the Western Foothills District.

In effect, the withdrawal returned them to their earlier alignment when the latest round of school consolidations began, though the initials changed from MSAD to RSU and the number from 21 to 56.

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In neighboring Maine School Administrative District 17, the Oxford Hills School District, residents of West Paris voted at a special town meeting Nov. 8 to take ownership of the Agnes Gray Elementary School. MSAD 17 had closed the building abruptly in February 2024, citing safety concerns. The vote was 149-2.

West Paris is to pay $5,000 for the building. The special town meeting did not raise money to repair the building or decide its future use. Private fundraising for restoration has begun. Since February, elementary students from West Paris have been attending Paris Elementary School.

School consolidation in Maine has ebbed and flowed for nearly 20 years.

In 2007, the Legislature adopted Gov. John Baldaccis plan to reduce the number of school districts from 290 to 80. Only a few districts were exempted from the consolidation order because of their high academic standing.

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In the first screening, Maine School Administrative District 58, the Mt. Abram district in Franklin County, was exempted.

Within four years, the number of districts shrank to 215. But with withdrawals in the 14 years since, the total has climbed to 264. Many of those are town school departments created after a community left an SAD or RSU.

And now, even the exempted district, MSAD 58, may be shattering. Three of its towns are establishing withdrawal committees after voter approval this year. They were original member towns of School Administrative District 58, organized in 1968. Eustis, also an original member, has already withdrawn, and Kingfield, Phillips and Strong are preparing withdrawal documents.

As the Beatles put it in 1970, a "long and winding road awaits Buckfield, Hartford and Sumner. It remains to be seen whether the three towns will return to their earlier status as a school district unto themselves.
Scientists studied the presence of microplastics along Goa's coast, finding that every animal in the food chain was affected.

What's happening?

According to The Hindu, the researchers wanted to better understand how bioaccumulation (the buildup of microplastics in the body) and trophic transfer (how microplastics move through the food chain) occur in the Mandovi estuarine system. This system contributes to 97% of Goa's fish output.

Researchers from Goa's CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography and Ghaziabad's Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research focused on the bamboo shark, a predator at the top of its food chain. They also tested species like sardines, catfish, clams, mussels, oysters, anchovies, solefish, and mackerel.

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The findings, published in the journal Environmental Research, showed anchovies and catfish had the largest particle accumulation. Consumption was how most particles entered these animals.

They found 4,871 polluting particles in the fish, including 3,369 plastic particles. The team identified 19 different plastic polymers, 11 of which are classified as highly toxic.

The plastic particles mainly came from disintegrated fishing gear, tire residue from roads, packaging waste, electronic waste (e-waste), human wastewater, and textiles.

What do these findings mean for people?

When people consume these fish, they're also consuming all the microplastics in them. Many communities rely on these estuarine systems for both food and livelihoods.

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The scientists also found that 66 of the 71 shellfish species assessed had poor nutritional status. The affected fish will not deliver as many nutrients to people who consume them, lessening the overall health of the human population.

Furthermore, bioaccumulation causes a wide range of health issues, from weakened immunity to cancer. The same issues they cause in humans, they also cause in animals.

These microplastics harm public health and weaken wildlife populations, ultimately harming both people and the planet.

What's being done about these microplastics?

Researchers are seeking new methods to remove microplastics from bodies of water on a large scale, but there are still ways that everyone can help.

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To reduce the risk of ingesting microplastics, people should limit their use of plastic products. Reducing plastic waste by avoiding single-use plastic or finding alternatives to plastic helps keep these particles out of the ocean.

Ravidas K. Naik, a microplastics researcher from the National Center for Polar and Ocean Research, said about the findings, per The Hindu, "There are microplastics in every place on earth, and such findings only underscore the urgent need for us to take action as a society to remove plastic from various environments, with better waste disposal and new research for biodegradable alternatives."

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 person listed as the Scottsdale Police Departments second most-wanted fugitive has been taken into custody in France, where he is reportedly facing new criminal charges, according to officials.

"Nearly two decades ago, this individual fled from accountability. Our detectives never stopped working to bring him to justice," said Chief Joe LeDuc with the Scottsdale Police Department. "This arrest reflects years of persistence, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to protecting children."

Michael Wiseman was first arrested in February 2008 on multiple counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. In November, while under court-ordered monitoring, Wiseman cut off his ankle bracelet and fled the United States, according to a news release by the Scottsdale Police Department.

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In 2009, following an unlawful flight to avoid prosecution warrant, Wiseman was arrested in Spain and extradited back to the United States. He pleaded guilty to his previous charges and was sentenced in 2012, according to police.

Wiseman fled the country a second time while out on probation, police said.

Scottsdale Police Criminal Intelligence Unit detectives eventually learned that Wiseman had fled to Vietnam, Poland and ultimately France where he was living under the alias Robert Danilewski.

Since locating Wiseman, detectives have been working with both the FBI Phoenix office and French authorities to apprehend Wiseman for outstanding warrants related to the 2008 investigation, according to Scottsdale police.

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In September 2025, a provisional arrest warrant was submitted to the Department of Justice Office of International Affairs. The warrant was then sent to French authorities, police said.

Detectives gained access to Wiseman's email address in October 2025, which included historic and current data, and what was believed to be new child sexual abuse material, according to police.

Detectives in the Scottsdale Police Department's Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit confirmed the videos to be child sexual abuse material involving Wiseman. Additionally, the videos contained evidence that Wiseman was engaging in sexual abuse of his adopted child, police said.

On Nov. 1, French authorities took Wiseman into custody. In addition to the arrest warrant in Scottsdale, French officials have charged Wiseman with "rape and sexual assault of a minor under 15 years of age," according to police.

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As of Nov. 7, Wiseman was being held by French authorities for his crimes committed there prior to his extradition to the United States, officials said.

"When the most vulnerable among us  our children  are victimized, we will always ensure we do everything in our power to protect them and get predators such as this off the street," said FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Heith Janke.

Turquoise Alert never issued: Remains of White Mountain Apache teen identified after weeklong disappearance

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Scottsdale fugitive held in France after years on run
South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden speaks to media during an announcement at the St. Joseph Academy in Sioux Falls on Nov. 11, 2025. State Education Secretary Joe Graves (left), Lt. Gov. Tony Venhuizen (right) and St. Joseph Academy students stand around him. (Photo by Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight)

South Dakota is the fourth state in the country to commit to President Donald Trumps federal education tax credit program, Republican Gov. Larry Rhoden announced Friday in Sioux Falls.

Under the program, South Dakotans who owe federal income taxes can either send up to $1,700 to the federal government, or they can donate that $1,700 to a government-recognized scholarship granting organization to public, private or homeschool entities in the state. The program starts in 2027.

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Nebraskas Republican Gov. Jim Pillen announced the states commitment in September. Republican governors for North Carolina and Tennessee announced their commitment this summer. Oregon, New Mexico and Wisconsin officials said they do not intend to opt into the program. Some critics nationally have questioned whether there will be proper guardrails, accountability and quality control in place.

Rhoden called the imminent program a winning situation for South Dakota taxpayers.

Id just as soon give those dollars to a private school than Uncle Sam, Rhoden said at the announcement, standing in front of a row of students attending the St. Joseph Academy. I think they know how to spend it a little wiser than the federal government.

Rhoden added that the federal tax credit will pair well with South Dakotas existing tax credit program, which allows insurance companies to donate up to a total of $5 million to a private school scholarship program for students whose families have low incomes.

South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden (left) and First Lady Sandy Rhoden (right) speak to St. Joseph Academy students in Sioux Falls on Nov. 11, 2025. (Photo by Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight)

The program will further support the states growing alternative instruction movement, Rhoden said, including homeschooling and microschools popping up throughout the state. Alternative instruction enrollment has nearly tripled in South Dakota in the last decade, making up about 7% of school-age children in the state.

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Sara Hofflander, founder of St. Joseph Academy, said the school is grateful for the potential extra funding, though she plans to approach everything cautiously.

Running an independent school obviously requires a heavy commitment from families, Hoffman said, adding that the extra funding would lift some of that burden, so we can focus more on the needs of our students.

Historically, school choice efforts in the state have met resistance from the public school industry.

Advocates vehemently fought former Gov. Kristi Noems effort to introduce Education Savings Accounts, which would have provided public funding for private education and homeschool options during the last legislative session, calling the failed effort an attack on public education. Those same advocates referred to the states education tax credit program as backdoor school voucher program.

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But Rob Monson, executive director for the School Administrators of South Dakota, said the program will benefit public and private education. South Dakotans can direct their tax credit dollars to organizations representing public schools in the state. The funding could be spent on not only tuition and fees for private schools, but tutoring, special needs services for students with disabilities, transportation (such as busing), afterschool care and computers.

Thats a huge win for taxpayers of South Dakota, but also every form of education across the state, Monson said.

South Dakota Education Secretary Joe Graves said the program will support education innovations and a robust competitive system.

Graves told lawmakers on Thursday, while presenting lackluster test scores to a committee, that innovation would be key to improving student outcomes, especially for Native American students and children living in education deserts.

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Were not doing well enough, and we need to do better, Graves said at Fridays announcement.

If more students attend private or alternative schooling options, that would mean less state funding for public schools because of decreased student enrollment. Monson told South Dakota Searchlight that state revenues could be impacted by participation in the tax credit program, since it would remove federal tax dollars used to support other programs or go toward states. The federal government would still be obligated to fund some federal education programs, Monson added.

The scholarship funds would be available to families whose household incomes do not exceed 300% of their areas median gross income. The U.S. Department of Treasury is expected to issue proposed rules detailing the programs operation.

Graves said he assumes there will be reporting at some level of how the funds are spent.
A man accused in a deadly screwdriver stabbing in Phoenix  an attack in which the victim was pinned between two vehicles  has been sentenced.

As part of a plea agreement, 39-year-old Miguel Preciado was given a life sentence on Nov. 14 for the death of 35-year-old Ethan Jaaziel Felix, according to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office. Preciado had been charged with first-degree murder in the Dec. 27, 2024, incident.

About 7:30 p.m.,on the date of the incident, Preciado intentionally struck Felix while reversing his car, trapping the man's lower body between the rear ends of the suspect's and victim's vehicles, according to charging documents. Preciado was suspected of picking up a screwdriver from off the ground and stabbing Felix multiple times shortly before fleeing the scene, according to court documents.

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A seriously injured Felix was found by police and taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead an hour later, according to authorities.

Detectives determined that Felixs death was intentional based on the timing of Preciados vehicle movements and surveillance video showing the suspect watching the victim in the parking lot, according to charging documents.

Investigators located Preciados car on Dec. 30 in the desert south of Saguaro National Park near Tucson. Court records said that when authorities found him, he admitted to being involved in a homicide in Phoenix. He later told Phoenix police that he did not want to believe he stabbed the victim, according to the court documents.

Preciado, was booked Jan. 1, 2025, in the case.

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Preciado told investigators he had been hearing voices for about 10 months before Felixs death but did not know why he killed him, according to charging documents. The two men did not know each other, though they lived in the same building near 16th Street and Thomas Road in Phoenix, the charging documents said.

Deadly collision: Worker fatally struck near Loop 101 construction site in Glendale

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Life sentence given for fatal stabbing by screwdriver in Phoenix
At least nine people have been killed and nearly 30 others injured after a cache of confiscated explosives detonated in a police station in Srinagar, Indian-administered Kashmirs main city.

The stockpile exploded late on Friday night at a police station in the Nowgam area, south of Srinagar.

One unnamed source told the Reuters news agency that identification efforts were under way as some bodies have been completely burned.

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The intensity of the blast was such that some body parts were recovered from nearby houses, around 100-200 metres [110-220 yards] away from the police station, the source said.

Most of those killed were policemen and forensic team officials who were examining the explosives at the time of the detonation, unnamed sources told Indian broadcaster NDTV. Two officials from the Srinagar administration also died in the blast.

With five people still in critical condition, the death toll could continue to climb, according to the media outlet.

Not a terror attack. Police say its a very unfortunate incident, NDTVs senior executive editor Aditya Raj Kaul said in a post on social media.

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The blast happened when a forensics team and the police were checking the explosive material stored at the police station, he said.

#BREAKING: J&K Police Top Officials tell me that the massive blast at Nowgam Police Station around 11:20pm tonight happened when FSL team along with Police and Tehsildar were inspecting the large Ammonium Nitrate explosive which was confiscated earlier. Casualties in the blast. pic.twitter.com/67U143jOFg  Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) November 14, 2025

The huge blast came days after Mondays deadly car explosion in New Delhi, which killed at least 12 people near the citys historic Red Fort and which officials have called a terror incident.

The explosion in the Indian capital occurred just hours after police arrested several people and seized explosive materials as well as assault rifles.

Police said the suspects were linked to Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM), a Pakistan-based group that is seeking to end Indian rule in Kashmir, and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind, a Kashmir offshoot linked to JeM.

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Police in Indian-administered Kashmir also detained more than 650 people as part of their investigation following the New Delhi car blast.





According to reports, the Nowgam police station, where the blast took place on Friday, had led an investigation into posters that were displayed around the area by JeM, warning it would carry out attacks on security forces and outsiders.

Police said their investigation into the posters exposed a white-collar terror ecosystem, involving radicalised professionals and students in contact with foreign handlers, operating from Pakistan and other countries.

Police also recovered nearly 3,000kg (3 tonnes) of explosive material, saying the armed group was stockpiling enough to carry out a major attack in India.

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Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since their independence from British rule in 1947, and both claim the Himalayan territory.

The two countries have fought three wars over Kashmir since they were partitioned in 1947, and tensions remain high between New Delhi and Islamabad over the status of the territory.








A San Francisco Unified School District special education paraeducator has been charged with multiple felony counts after prosecutors said he sexually abused a student over several years while working in the city's public schools.

Calvin Tran, 36, was charged with several counts of child sexual assault for incidents that prosecutors say occurred between 2015 and 2018, according to the San Francisco District Attorney's Office.

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Tran made his first court appearance Friday, and his arraignment is scheduled for Dec. 3. Prosecutors have asked that he be held without bail, citing the potential risk to public safety.

According to a statement from the San Francisco Police Department's Special Victims Unit, "the investigation discovered that the adult male suspect had an inappropriate relationship with the victim for several years that ended when the victim was a teenager. The victim was a student in a school where the suspect was a teacher."

A special education paraeducator is accused of sexually abusing a student at Francisco Middle School in San Francisco, plus other locations. (Google Street View)





Tran faces multiple felony counts, including committing lewd acts upon a child, continuous sexual abuse, oral copulation of a person under 14, aggravated sexual assault of a child, forcible oral copulation of a minor 14 or older, and four counts of meeting a minor for lewd purposes.

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According to court records, the alleged assaults took place at multiple locations, including Francisco Middle School, where the victim was a student at the time.

Police said the victim reported the assaults in August, nearly a decade after they allegedly began. Tran was arrested Thursday by the SFPD's Fugitive Recovery Enforcement Team and remains in custody.

In a message sent to families, San Francisco Unified School District Superintendent Maria Su described the allegations as "deeply concerning" and confirmed that Tran had been placed on leave immediately after the district learned of his arrest. Tran, a Washington High School graduate, most recently worked at Argonne Elementary School.

"We care deeply about the safety and well-being of our students, and we are aware of the trust you place in our staff to keep your children safe," Su wrote. "Please know that your child's safety is of the utmost importance to us."

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Su said the district requires all employees to complete annual mandated reporter training, pass criminal background checks, and receive instruction on maintaining professional boundaries with students.

Families with information were urged to contact the San Francisco Police Department tip line at 415-575-4444 or text "SFPD" to TIP411.

District officials said school counselors and social workers are available for students and families seeking support.

This article originally published at San Francisco teacher sexually abused student over several years, police say.
After going two weeks without Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, eligible Kentuckians should see benefits loaded on their cards as soon as Nov. 15.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear announced Nov. 15 that the commonwealth may be one of the first states to restore SNAP benefits. Nearly 600,000 Kentuckians rely on SNAP benefits to supplement their grocery budgets. Those benefits were suspended on Nov. 1 due to the federal government shutdown, which left Kentuckians and millions more around the country without a way to purchase food.

With that in mind, the state worked quickly to restore that aid once the government shutdown, which was the longest in U.S. history, ended Nov. 12.

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Once again, members of Team Kentucky worked through the night to process SNAP benefits to ensure their fellow Kentuckians didnt have to wait a minute longer to receive the support they need to feed their loved ones, Beshear said in a news release on Nov. 15. Despite the Presidents refusal to release these benefits, Kentucky has remained committed to doing everything we can to be there for our neighbors. Our government should fight hunger  not cause it  and were committed to leading with our values and doing whats right.

The shutdown ended earlier this week when the U.S. Congress was able to narrowly pass a temporary appropriations bill after eight Senate Democrats agreed to end the weeks-long stalemate and vote for the measure. That bill will provide funding for the government through January 2026. In addition to food benefits and providing pay for federal employees, including the military and air traffic controllers, the measure also reinstates all federal workers.

Beshear has been deeply involved in restoring SNAP benefits since the onset of the government shutdown.

He joined leaders from 24 other states and the District of Columbia in challenging President Donald Trumps administration over its decision to suspend SNAP. A federal judge ruled in favor of Kentucky and ordered that funding be partially restored on Oct. 31. Kentucky became one of the first states to process those partial benefits on Nov. 5.

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Amid the suspension, Beshear signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency, directing $5 million from the budget reserve trust fund to Feeding Kentucky food banks. He also authorized the Kentucky National Guard to assist in staffing food banks as needed. The Governor also directed more than $12 million in state funds during the month of November to temporarily support the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program.

Reach reporter Maggie Menderski at mmenderski@courier-journal.com.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear says when November SNAP benefits will return
Cultural & Historical Significance

Philemon holds significant cultural importance across multiple historical periods. In ancient Greece, the name embodied the ideal of friendship and intellectual companionship, derived from 'philema' (kiss) and 'philos' (friend/loving). The most famous classical bearer, Philemon of Syracuse, represented the intellectual and artistic values of Greek comedy. The name gained profound religious significance in early Christianity through Saint Philemon, to whom Paul addressed one of the shortest but most personal epistles in the New Testament. This biblical connection transformed Philemon into a symbol of Christian forgiveness, hospitality, and the reconciliation between master and slave (through Onesimus). During the Renaissance, the name experienced revival among scholars and humanists who valued classical learning and early Christian history. In modern times, Philemon appears in psychological contexts through Carl Jung's visions of the wise old man Philemon, representing spiritual wisdom and the unconscious mind. The name's enduring appeal lies in its ability to bridge classical wisdom, Christian virtue, and psychological depth across centuries of cultural evolution.
South Carolina executed a man by firing squad on Friday, marking the third time the state has used gunfire to kill a person on death row despite growing backlash against the method.

Stephen Bryant, 44, had been sentenced to death for the October 2004 killing of Willard TJ Tietjen and pleaded guilty to two other murders. Bryants lawyers had argued in final appeals that the sentencing judge had been unable to consider his brain damage from his mothers alcohol and drug use during pregnancy, but South Carolinas supreme court declined to halt the execution on Monday.

Bryant made no final statement and briefly glanced at 10 witnesses in the execution chamber before prison officials placed a hood over his head, according to the Associated Press, one of the media observers. There were three prison shooters in the room, and shots rang out roughly 55 seconds later.

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After the bullets were fired, Bryant made no noise and a red bulls-eye target that had been placed on his heart flew forward off his chest, the AP reported. He appeared to take a few shallow breaths and then experienced a final spasm a little over a minute later, with a doctor pronouncing him dead at 6.05pm.

South Carolina has revived executions over the last year and has now killed seven people in rapid succession after a 13-year pause in capital punishment. In March, the state conducted its first firing squad execution, a method human rights advocates have called barbaric, which had not been used anywhere in the US in 15 years.

Bryants lawyers claimed he did not receive a full brain scan before his 2008 trial, which could have identified damage, the AP reported. His attorneys have said the brain damage was compounded by appalling physical and sexual abuse committed by several family members during childhood, arguing his counsel at sentencing ignored myriad red flags of his brain damage.

The South Carolina attorney generals office contended Bryants brain damage claims were irrelevant, saying Bryant was methodical, cunning, and took pleasure in his crimes, including the gratuitous infliction of horror on Mr Tietjens family.

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The character of the defendant and the circumstances of the crimes weigh in favor of the harshest punishment, the states lawyers wrote.

Investigators said Bryant had burned Tietjens eyes with cigarettes and painted taunting messages with his blood.

Tonight, South Carolina gave Mr Bryant his final wounds in a lifetime of suffering, Bo King, his lawyer, said in a statement after the execution, recounting his upbringing marked by abuse and neglect. Mr Bryants impairments left him unable to endure the tormenting memories of his childhood. When these traumas pushed him to mental collapse, he pleaded for professional help. He was refused care by our broken mental health system because he could not afford the fee of $75.

His lawyers had previously noted in court filings that he was turned away from treatment shortly before the killings due to the cost.

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Mr Bryants final wish was that no other person in need of aid face that rejection. That is consistent with the man we knew, who showed grace and courage in forgiving his family and great love for his those in and outside of his prison. We will remember his unlikely friendships, his fierce protectiveness, and his love for nature, the water, and the world, added King, the chief of the capital habeas unit for the fourth circuit, which is part of the federal public defenders office.

South Carolina death row defendants are now directed to select how they will be killed  electric chair, lethal injection or gunfire. While lethal injection is the most common method in the US states that have continued executions, there have been growing concerns that the use of pentobarbital, a sedative, can cause a prolonged and excruciating death.

In a recent pentobarbital execution in Tennessee, records showed the mans lungs became swollen with fluid, a condition that death row lawyers say causes a feeling of suffocation and drowning.

Brad Sigmon, the first man to be killed by firing squad in South Carolina this year, chose gunfire because he was concerned by reports that the three men executed before him, whom he knew well, had experienced painful deaths that took more than 20 minutes, his attorneys said at the time. He preferred gunfire to being burned  alive by electrocution.

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Lawyers for Mikal Mahdi, the second man shot to death by South Carolina officials, said he chose the lesser of three evils. Mahdis lawyers said his autopsy showed the execution was botched, with the shooters allegedly missing the target area on his heart, causing a prolonged death. State corrections officials disputed the lawyers claims, saying the autopsy showed the shooters struck his heart before hitting other organs.

The attorney generals office declined to comment before the execution. Chrysti Shain, South Carolina corrections spokesperson, referred to her past statements that the firing squad did not miss Mahdis heart. She said accounts of the states recent lethal injection executions suggested the men stopped breathing after a short time period.

With Bryants execution, South Carolina has cemented its status as a leader of firing squad killings. Under the modern death penalty over the last five decades, Utah is the only other state to execute three people with gunfire, with its last firing squad killing in 2010. Idaho is moving to make firing squad its primary execution method, and killings by gunfire are still legal in Mississippi and Oklahoma.

The Rev Hillary Taylor, executive director of South Carolinians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, said in an interview before the execution that people on death row face an impossible choice: Do you choose being poisoned to death in a way that is akin to waterboarding, do you get cooked to death by electrocution, or do you get your heart blown out of your chest by a firing squad?

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More gun violence was not the solution to crimes, Taylor argued, noting Bryants struggles to access treatment: Were never going to solve the problem of violence in South Carolina if we are not willing to prevent it from happening in the first place.

Bryant is the 50th person to be executed in South Carolina since the state restarted capital punishment four decades ago, according to the AP. He is the 43rd person in the US to be put to death in 2025 so far. Tremane Wood, a 46-year-old man on death row in Oklahoma, was spared moments before his scheduled lethal injection on Thursday when he was granted clemency.
Two women were found dead, and another woman was found wounded following a domestic violence shooting early Saturday morning in South Gate, deputies said. The suspect died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound after firing shots at officers.

Officers from the South Gate Police Department responded to a home in the 8400 block of San Luis Avenue just before 2:30 a.m. in response to a 911 caller who stated that a man was in her residence shooting a firearm.

When officers arrived, the male suspect reportedly exited the front door of the residence, armed with a weapon, and fired several gunshots at officers. South Gate police responded by firing shots at the suspect, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

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The suspect then went back into the residence, and officers heard additional gunshots.

Officers approached the residence and were able to extract a Hispanic woman in her 70s who was suffering from gunshot wounds. She was taken to a local hospital in stable condition.

While clearing the residence, officers found a Hispanic woman, approximately 25 years old, and a Hispanic woman in her early 50s dead with gunshot wounds. They also found the suspect, described as a Hispanic man in his early 50s, dead with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound, deputies said.

Investigators said the suspect and three victims are related, and the incident appears to be related to domestic violence. Further details about how they are related were not immediately released.

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Deputies said a firearm consistent with the one used to shoot at South Gate officers was recovered at the scene.

No officers were injured during the shooting.

The County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner-Coroner will release the names of the suspect and victims, pending next-of-kin notifications.

Anyone with information about the case was urged to call the sheriff's Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Tipsters can remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8422 or visiting lacrimestoppers.org.
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier on Saturday thanked the Italian migrants, once known as "guest workers," who helped rebuild Germany after World War II.

Italian guest workers made an important contribution to Germany's economic rise, Steinmeier said at a joint event with Italian President Sergio Mattarella in Berlin.

He said his country owed them gratitude and respect, not least because they often encountered prejudice and rejection in Germany.

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"It took a long time for our country, for my country, to recognize the remarkable achievements of those people who came to us back then," Steinmeier said.

"That is precisely why it is so important to me today to make it clear once again: the success story of postwar Germany also has a background in migration," he added.

In December 1955, Germany signed an agreement with Italy that enabled hundreds of thousands of Italians to move to Germany to work.

These people did Germany a lot of good, Steinmeier said. "Not least because they helped us to become a little more Italian as a society. And I don't just mean in culinary terms," he joked.

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At the event in Steinmeier's official residence, Bellevue Palace, the two presidents also honoured six German-Italian town twinning partnerships for projects in the areas of youth and intergenerational dialogue, civic engagement, remembrance culture, sustainability and social cohesion.

The prize, endowed with 200,000 ($230,000), "recognizes the role of local authorities and encourages local administrations to forge new relationships with other countries, thereby building a genuine network of local politics," said Mattarella.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Nov. 12 that the Trump administration was "exploring all legal options" to issue $2,000 checks to Americans, although there have been no concrete details on how the payments would work.

"The president made it clear he wants to make it happen," Leavitt told reporters at the White House. "So his team of economic advisers are looking into it."

President Donald Trump sparked the latest round of stimulus check conversations on Nov. 9, when he posted on social media that a $2,000 dividend from tariffs would be sent to some Americans.

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"A dividend of at least $2,000 a person (not including high income people!) will be paid to everyone," Trump wrote on Truth Social.

In order for a stimulus payment to become a reality, Congress would have to approve the proposal, as it did with the 2020 COVID-19 stimulus checks. There have been no new proposals or actions from Congress on this topic.

Here's everything to know about the suggested $2,000 stimulus check.

Is Trump issuing $2,000 stimulus checks in 2025?

Trump's post on Truth Social indicated that a $2,000 dividend would be sent out. However, there were very few details included in post and he has yet to say more about the dividend.

Tariff stimulus check eligibility

Trump's Truth Social post indicated the $2,000 per person checks would be sent to Americans "not including high income people!"

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Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Nov. 12 that Trump is considering the stimulus checks for families making $100,000 a year or less.

What is considered 'high-income people'?

Clarification form Bessent indicated that "high-income people" were those making more than $100,000 a year.

When are we getting the $2,000 stimulus check?

There was no timeline for payment provided in Trump's posts on social media.

Since Congress would have to approve the payments before they could be sent out, it could take awhile before the money is in your hands.

This isn't the 1st stimulus check Trump suggested in 2025

This is not the first suggestion of using funds generated by tariffs to send a stimulus payment to Americans. There was previous discussion of doing this in August 2025.

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After Trump originally suggested this idea during the summer, Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley proposed the American Worker Rebate Act of 2025, which would have provided a minimum of $600 per adult and dependent child, or $2,400 for a family of four, according to news officials in August. The bill was referred to a Senate committee, but there were no updates on it as of November.

According to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, a nonpartisan nonprofit that studies fiscal policy, Trump's proposal would cost about double the money that the U.S. is expected to make in new import duties.

Earlier in 2025, there was also talk of a DOGE dividend, which would be funded by money the department cut from other groups.

Though politicians and Trump himself talked about the idea, the stimulus checks were never formally approved by Congress. There has been no news about this proposal for months.

Reach the reporter at reia.li@gannett.com. Follow @reia_reports on Instagram.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: When are stimulus checks being sent out? Latest on checks
Police in Gloucester County pursued a stolen car for miles early Friday morning before it got away.

Police say a BMW X3 that was stolen from a West Deptford home Tuesday morning showed up on a license plate reader as the vehicle entered Washington Township.

"Officers acted swiftly, decisively. They started to pursue the vehicle," said Washington Twp. Police Chief Patrick Gurcsik.

Police say when an officer tried to pull the vehicle over, it fled onto Rt. 42 southbound. The vehicle then looped around northbound on 42, then got onto the Atlantic City Expressway southbound.

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After several miles, police say it crossed the median and headed towards Camden.

RELATED | Residents frustrated after thieves get into locked car: 'It's so violating'

Residents frustrated after thieves get into locked car: 'It's so violating'

The chase ended on Carl Miller Blvd. in Camden after the BMW almost hit another car head-on.

Gurcsik says officers decided to end the pursuit for safety reasons.

Police say this BMW was stolen on Tuesday as suspects went through this West Deptford neighborhood trying to access cars, as captured on surveillance video.

West Deptford police did make an arrest Wednesday overnight in the area of Crescent Ave. after a vehicle burglary in progress was reported. It's unclear if that suspect is connected with the vehicle thefts on Tuesday.

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South Jersey has seen an uptick in vehicle thefts over the past several years, something that's been a constant battle for local police departments.

"They use stolen cars to commit other crimes, sometimes more serious crimes, violent crimes, robberies, home invasions," said Gurcsik.

Multiple other agencies assisted in the chase, including New Jersey State Police and Camden County.
The man accused of trying to confront acting New Jersey U.S. Attorney Alina Habba has been arrested, according to Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Bondi announced the arrest in a post on 'X' on Saturday morning without providing further details about the individual.

The suspect is alleged to have destroyed property in the New Jersey U.S. Attorney's office Wednesday night before fleeing the scene.

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"No one will get away with threatening or intimidating our great US Attorneys or the destruction of their offices," Bondi said.

Thanks to the great work of @FBI, @USMarshalsHQ, and @HSI_HQ the suspect wanted in the attack on @USAttyHabbas office is now in custody.



No one will get away with threatening or intimidating our great US Attorneys or the destruction of their offices.  Attorney General Pamela Bondi (@AGPamBondi) November 15, 2025

On Friday, the FBI identified the suspect as Keith Michael Lisa.

Authorities say Lisa attempted to enter the Peter W. Rodino Federal Building in Newark while in possession of a bat.

After initially being denied entry by security, the suspect left and returned without the bat. Once inside the building, officials say he proceeded to the New Jersey U.S. Attorney's office and damaged government property.

The FBI is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Keith Michael Lisa, wanted for allegedly destroying government property and possession of a dangerous weapon inside a US Court facility in Newark, New Jersey, on November 12, pic.twitter.com/Max2djdsZy  FBI Most Wanted (@FBIMostWanted) November 15, 2025

Habba was previously President Donald Trump's personal lawyer, representing him in various cases and acting as his spokesperson on legal matters. She served as a White House adviser briefly before Trump named her as interim U.S. attorney in March.

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Trump formally nominated Habba as New Jersey's permanent U.S. attorney on July 1, but the state's two Democratic U.S. senators, Cory Booker and Andy Kim opposed it, stalling the confirmation process.

A few weeks later, as Habba's 120-day interim appointment was expiring, New Jersey federal judges moved to replace her with her second-in-command. Bondi then fired that prosecutor and renamed Habba as acting U.S. attorney.

Last month, the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguments in a case challenging her appointment. It hasn't ruled.

ABC News and the Associated Press contributed to this report.

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A deadly ambush during an attempted drug-related robbery in El Paso's Lower Valley last summer resulted in the filing of capital murder charges, court documents showed.

A teenager was killed, two men were wounded  including one of the suspected robbers  and four suspects were arrested after a shooting on the night of June 25 on Lilac Way, El Paso police officials and court documents stated.

Alfredo Marquez and Destiny Aleah Acosta, both 19, and two juvenile boys were arrested in a connection with a planned robbery during a drug deal to buy THC cartridges, resulting in the death of 17-year-old Alejandro Lopez Mariscal, according to criminal complaint documents filed by detectives recently obtained by the El Paso Times.

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Homicides 2025: El Paso police arrest man on murder charge in fatal stabbing at DK store in South-Central

El Paso police public information officers had not previously released the names of the victim and suspects, identifying them only as two adults and two juveniles (three males and one female).

The driver of a Jeep Renegade that Lopez was riding in was wounded in the shooting as was Marquez, a robbery suspect who was shot in the arm "likely as result of crossfire" among the robbers, a complaint affidavit stated. The driver and Marquez survived. Lopez died.

Marquez and Acosta face charges of capital murder because the killing occurred during the commission of a robbery, court records showed. In Texas, capital murder is punishable by life in prison without parole or the death penalty.

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The defense attorneys for Marquez and Acosta did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The names of the other suspects and their charges were not available because they are juveniles. Security camera video, evidence and confessions were obtained in the homicide investigation by the Crimes Against Persons Unit.

Multiple gunshots fired at Lower Valley apartment complex

About 8:45 p.m., June 25: Mission Valley patrol officers responded to a call of shots fired at the Cien Palmas Apartments, 7845 Lilac Way. While officers were enroute, a caller across the street at the Western Gallagher Apartments reported that her brother, Marquez, had been shot, affidavits stated.

Teen gun violence: Teen arrested in East El Paso apartment complex shooting facing aggravated assault charges

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Security camera video obtained by investigators showed a white Jeep Renegade parked at the Cien Palmas Apartments, the affidavits stated.

The video allegedly shows Acosta and another female approach the passenger side of the Jeep shortly before three males wearing red, black and gray hoodies rush the vehicle from both sides. Two of the males appear to be armed, the affidavits stated.

"The shooting begins almost immediately when the males approach the vehicle," an affidavit stated.

The video shows multiple shots are fired into the Jeep, hitting the passenger (Lopez) and the driver and Marquez who is hit in the crossfire, detectives stated in the affidavits. After the initial shooting, the would-be robbers ran off.

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Despite having been shot, the driver was able to drive away. As the Jeep exits the apartment complex onto the street, two shooters fire a second volley at the fleeing vehicle, the affidavit stated.

"This act posed a continued threat to the lives of the victims and created an extreme danger to others in the vicinity," a detective stated in an affidavit.

Teens' armed robbery plan goes wrong

The driver of the Jeep drove Lopez to Del Sol Medical Center, where Lopez died of the gunshot wounds he sustained, the affidavit stated. The condition of the driver was not disclosed.

When questioned by detectives, Acosta and Marquez both allegedly confessed, telling investigators that the plan was to rob the victim of money because they needed money for rent, the affidavits stated. Acosta was staying at an apartment rented by Marquez and his girlfriend.

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The group came up with a plan to lure Lopez to rob him. Acosta allegedly told detectives that she contacted Lopez via Instagram Messenger, posing as a buyer wanting to purchase THC cartridges.

El Paso police patrol car. File art.

When questioned, Marquez first told investigators that the shooting occurred because the people in the Jeep were "mad dogging him and his group." But he later allegedly confessed that the plan was to rob the victims of their money because they needed money for the rent.

"As soon as I got to the car, we were like give me the money," Marquez allegedly told detectives.

El Paso homicides: New details: Uncle fatally shot while helping niece during domestic dispute

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The plan was to rob Lopez, not to shoot him, Marquez and Acosta, allegedly told investigators, according to affidavits. But the gunfire began almost immediately during the robbery confrontation.

Acosta was booked on charges of capital murder, aggravated robbery and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. She remains held on a $600,000 bond at the El Paso County Jail Annex.

Marquez also faces the same charges as Acosta but is incarcerated at the El Paso County Jail Annex without bond because of a probation violation on a case of deadly conduct discharge of a firearm from last year, court and jail records show.

Daniel Borunda may be reached at dborunda@elpasotimes.com and @BorundaDaniel on X.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: El Paso teens face capital murder case in drug-deal robbery shooting
Two men, from Texas and Florida, are facing six years total for their role in Medicare scams.

Paul Wexler, a 56-year-old from Spring, Texas, and Paul Bleignier, a 64-year-old from Seminole, Florida, led a marketing company that solicited Medicare recipients for unnecessary genetic testing, according to a release from the Department of Justice. They caused Medicare to be billed $17.3 million, but were paid only $5.2 million.

The suspects were sentenced on November 13, according to the release. Wexler faces four years in prison, while Bleignier faces two years, plus another two-year sentence immediately after, for falsifying ownership information of a lab in Medicare enrollment. They were also each ordered to pay $5.2 million in restitution, $1.2 million in forfeiture, plus an additional $916,106 in forfeiture from Bleignier.

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The men reportedly ran a telemarketing company recruiting Medicare recipients for medically unnecessary cancer genetic testing, which detects gene mutations suggesting risk for future cancer, but that could not diagnose current cancer. Medicare covers this testing in some limited circumstances.

They and their unnamed co-conspirators also allegedly sought and received kickbacks in exchange for referring Medicare beneficiaries for this testing, which was not eligible for Medicare reimbursement.

While the case was still pending for genetic testing fraud, Bleignier reportedly opened a clinical lab and enrolled it in Medicare. The program requires disclosure of anyone with 5% or more ownership interest, but the suspect allegedly used others identities to disguise his involvement.

The claims related to that laboratory were further tainted by kickbacks, the release reads.

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Bleignier and his co-conspirators, also unnamed, billed Medicare for $3,012,156 in ineligible claims, and they were paid $916,106.

Wexler pleaded guilty in April 2024 to conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud and wire fraud, according to the release. Bleignier pleaded guilty in November 2022 to conspiracy to defraud the United States and pay and receive kickbacks  then, in November 2024, to making false statements in healthcare matters.

The FBI and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General investigated the case, while the DOJs Criminal Division Trial Attorney, Charles Strauss, prosecuted the case.

The DOJ announced in June that nearly 50 people, including 18 medical professionals, were charged for a $360 million Medicare fraud scheme in the Southern District of Texas, as The Dallas Express reported at the time.
At least 120 people - 100 of them police officers - have been injured in clashes during anti-government protests in Mexico City, police said.

Thousands of demonstrators marched in the Mexican capital on Saturday to protest against violent crime and President Claudia Sheinbaum's government.

Sheinbaum said the marches, which also took place in other cities, had been funded by right-wing politicians who oppose her government.

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The rally was organised by Gen Z youth groups, drawing support from citizens protesting against high-profile killings, including the assassination just weeks ago of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo - who had called for tough action against cartels.

Demonstrators dismantled parts of a barrier protecting the National Palace, where Sheinbaum lives. Police protecting the compound used tear gas on the crowds.

Authorities have arrested 20 people for crimes including robbery and assault, Mexico City security chief Pablo Vazquez told reporters.

Protesters waved banners displaying messages including "We are all Carlos Manzo", while others wore cowboy hats in tribute to him.

[EPA]

Manzo was shot on 1 November while he attended a Day of the Dead festival.

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He was known for speaking openly about drug-trafficking gangs in his town and cartel violence.

He had been demanding tough action against armed cartel members who terrorise the country.

Sheinbaum has been acting against cartels but resisting calls for another all-out war on drugs. Previous attempts by her predecessors have ended with bloody results.

Days before the march took place, the president said the demonstration was being promoted by bots online.

"We agree with freedom of expression and freedom of demonstration if there are young people who have demands, but the issue here is who is promoting the demonstration," she said in a briefing.

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"People should know how this demonstration was organised so that no one is used."

Some protesters paid tribute to Uruapan mayor Carlos Manzo [Reuters]

Sheinbaum retains approval ratings above 70% in her first year in office, and has made in-roads in clamping down on fentanyl-trafficking  a key issue for her US counterpart, Donald Trump.

But she has been criticised for failing to halt the violence gripping the country and is facing increased hostility from nearby countries.

Earlier this month, Peru's Congress voted to declare Sheinbaum a persona non grata - or unwelcome in the country.

The decision came days after Peru severed diplomatic ties with Mexico, after the Mexican government granted asylum to a former Peruvian prime minister facing charges for a 2022 coup attempt.
Thousands of people have taken to the streets of Glasgow to protest against climate change.

Demonstrators marched through the city centre on a day of global action to coincide with the COP30 climate talks in Brazil.

Organisers Friends Of The Earth Scotland said it was the biggest climate march in Glasgow since COP26 was held in the city in 2021.

Speakers at a rally on Glasgow Green afterwards included STUC deputy secretary Dave Moxham and Poverty Alliance chief executive Peter Kelly.

Demonstrators gathered on Glasgow Green before marching through the city centre [Reuters]

Caroline Rance, Friends of the Earth Scotland's head of campaigns, said the turnout showed a growing desire for urgent climate action.

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She added: "People came out in huge numbers to demand that better world we know is possible.

"There is energy and enthusiasm to make transformative change happen, all it requires is the political will."

Ms Rance said public concern about the climate emergency remained "really high".

Friends of the Earth Scotland said it was the biggest climate march in Glasgow since COP26 [PA Media]

She continued: "People recognise that the challenges our communities face, from Palestine to the Amazon, are deeply connected."

Ms Rance also highlighted positive climate action measures such as insulating homes and improving the country's bus services.

Nick Cullen, of the Climate and Migrant Justice Organising Group, said the demonstration reflected a shared struggle across movements.

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He added: "We joined this march because we must stand together against the deepening hostile environment, far right violence, and the erosion of climate action.

"Today showed that in these challenging times, our communities are stronger and more powerful when we come together."

More on this story...

A banner at the front of the procession declared "a better world is possible" as it set off through the city.

Extinction Rebellion supporters brought along a mobile sound system, while a choir performed reworked Christmas carols.

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They adapted the lyrics to voice opposition to the Rosebank oil field, located west of the Shetland Isles.

A group of children also chanted "Stop Rosebank, the planet is for everyone" - in reference to the UK's largest undeveloped oil field - as they moved through the city centre.

One activist wore a Donald Trump mask and held a sign that read: "It's capitalism, ya eejits".

The Climate and Migrant Justice Organising Group and the Gaza Genocide Emergency Committee were among the groups taking part.

Palestinian flags also were visible throughout the march in a show of solidarity with people in Gaza.

Several groups took part in the protest, including the Climate and Migrant Justice Organising Group and the Gaza Genocide Emergency Committee. [PA Media]

John Hilley, of the Gaza Genocide Emergency Committee in Glasgow, said the fights for human rights and environmental protection were inseparable.

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He added: "We must act together and with urgency against the same corporate and political forces behind those existential threats."

The war in Gaza was triggered by the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on 7 October 2023, when about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others were taken hostage.

Since then, more than 69,000 people have been killed by Israeli attacks in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, whose figures the UN considers reliable.

'There is no planet B'

Martin Canavan wanted to be part of the "collective voice calling for change" [BBC]

Martin Canavan was at the protest with his daughter, Ailsa.

He told BBC Scotland News they wanted to take part because "urgent action" was needed to tackle the "climate emergency".

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"We need to make sure we are doing everything we can to improve the lives of people who are furthest away from power," he said.

"We want to make sure we can be part of the collective voice calling for change."

Ailsa, nine, said she wanted to come to the protest "because there is no planet B".

She added: "I want us to be able to live and have a happy life without any gas or anything."

Ailsa joined the protest because she wants people to have a "happy life" [BBC]

Ailsa, nine, said she wanted to come to the protest "because there is no planet B".

She added: "I want us to be able to live and have a happy life without any gas or anything."

'We're not seeing the change we need'

Anna Brown said she had concerns about the future [BBC]

Anna Brown was also among those protesting and said that she didn't feel politicians were doing enough to act on the issue of climate change.

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She said: "It says something that we're on COP30 - if something is working, why do we need it for 30 years?

"Why does the process continue to fail us nationally, internationally and locally?

"We're not seeing the change we need and people are continuing to suffer."

Ms Brown added that her biggest worry was thinking about the future.

"People ask 'what are you going to do? But that's so hard to plan for when you look around and realistically by 2050 the Clyde will be flooding and our energy bills go up everyday.

"Even as a uni student I worked three jobs and we shouldn't have to do that but that's the only way we can afford to live.

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"And that's not just for young people, that's for everyone.

"Climate action comes into that because, yet again, it is the big corporations and billionaires who continue to make money that are taking it away from the people who need it."

What is COP30?

Delegates from almost 200 countries are attending COP30 talks in Belem, Brazil.

It takes place 10 years after the Paris climate agreement, in which countries pledged to try to restrict the rise in global temperatures to 1.5C.

However, the head of the United Nations (UN) said "overshooting" 1.5C is now inevitable - and many world leaders are absent from the talks.

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COP30 is the 30th annual UN climate meeting and comes four years after Glasgow hosted COP26.

COP stands for "Conference of the Parties". "Parties" refers to the nearly 200 countries that have signed up to the original UN climate agreement of 1992.

It officially started on Monday 10 November and will run until Friday 21 November.

However, the talks often overrun because of last-minute negotiations to secure a deal.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Procne's cultural significance spans millennia, originating in Greek mythology but extending through Roman literature into modern Western culture. Her story, most famously preserved in Ovid's Metamorphoses, represents one of the most disturbing and psychologically complex narratives from classical antiquity. As the Athenian princess who marries Tereus of Thrace, only to suffer the ultimate betrayal when he rapes her sister Philomela and cuts out her tongue, Procne embodies both victimhood and vengeance. Her transformation into the nightingale following the murder of her son Itys makes her an eternal symbol of maternal grief transformed into artistic expression. Throughout literary history, Procne has served as a powerful metaphor for the consequences of extreme actions taken in response to unbearable wrongs. Her myth has influenced countless writers, from ancient poets to Renaissance dramatists and modern authors, continually reinterpreted to explore themes of justice, revenge, family loyalty, and the transformation of suffering into beauty. The enduring power of her story lies in its uncomfortable examination of how victims can become perpetrators, and how grief can manifest in destructive yet transformative ways.
NEED TO KNOW

A dog was successfully rescued after wandering into the Ted Williams Tunnel in Boston during rush hour

Surveillance footage of the incident shows the dog ambling between lanes, apparently unaware of the danger of passing cars

The dog's owner arranged to retrieve the pup after Mass. police rescued the pet

A dog held up traffic during rush hour as it wandered along the inside of a busy Boston tunnel.

On Thursday, Nov. 6, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation shared surveillance footage from inside the Ted Williams Tunnel, which shows a black-and-white dog ambling between lanes clogged with cars. The pet appears unconcerned by the danger posed by the passing cars. Ultimately, multiple police vehicles arrived on site to help the dog safely away from speeding traffic, per ABC News and the New York Post.

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The video footage also shows the dog trotting down the center of the left lane, occasionally dodging oncoming cars, many of which try to get out of the way. For some time, the dog wandered the wrong way down the left shoulder,

The footage then cuts to a police car on the scene, its lights flashing and alerting all other cars behind it to pull over. An officer then gets out of the vehicle, crouches down, and beckons to the dog, who had once again meandered to the center of the road.

The clip shows that the canine repeatedly ignored the officer's calls, pawing over to the right lane and weaving between completely stopped cars. The drivers tried to assist with the rescue, cracking their doors open, gesturing to the dog to trust the officer.

Ultimately, the dog decided to jump into the officer's car. Both ABC and The Post reported that six police cars arrived on the scene to help mitigate traffic while the dog was safely rescued.

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.

Per NBC10 Boston, the dog's owner arranged to pick up the dog from Boston Animal Care and Control, where the dog was taken after its tunnel adventure. The same dog was reportedly spotted around the economy parking lot at Boston Logan International Airport earlier that day, the outlet reported.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (AP)  President Donald Trumps administration on Friday appealed a ruling from a federal judge in Oregon that barred it from deploying the National Guard to Portland.

The ruling last week from U.S. District Court Judge Karin Immergut, a Trump appointee, followed a three-day trial in which both sides argued over whether protests at the citys U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building met the conditions for using the military domestically under federal law. The city and state filed the lawsuit in September to block the deployment.

In a 106-page opinion, Immergut found that even though the president is entitled to great deference in his decision on whether to call up the Guard, he did not have a legal basis for doing so because he did not establish that there was a rebellion or danger of rebellion, or that he was unable to enforce the law with regular forces.

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The administration criticized the decision and said the troops were needed to protect federal personnel and property in a city that Trump has described as war ravaged.

The district courts ruling made it clear that this administration must be accountable to the truth and to the rule of law, Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield said in an emailed statement Friday in response to the administration's appeal. We will keep defending Oregon values and standing up for our states authority to make decisions grounded in evidence and common sense.

Immergut issued two temporary restraining orders in early October that had blocked the deployment of the troops leading up to the trial. The first order blocked Trump from deploying 200 members of the Oregon National Guard; the second, issued a day later, blocked him from deploying members of any states National Guard to Oregon, after he tried to evade the first order by sending California troops instead.

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has already ordered that troops not be deployed pending further action by the appeals court.

Democratic cities targeted by Trump for military involvement  including Chicago, which filed a separate lawsuit on the issue that is now before the U.S. Supreme Court  have been pushing back. They argue the president has not satisfied the legal threshold for deploying troops and that doing so would violate states sovereignty.
US President Donald Trump, who is under immense pressure due to the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, is once again attempting to shift attention to former Democratic president Bill Clinton.

The US Department of Justice has initiated investigations, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced on the platform X on Friday, in response to a corresponding request from Trump regarding Clinton.

"As with all matters, the Department will pursue this with urgency and integrity to deliver answers to the American people," Bondi posted, without providing specific information.

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Trump had earlier requested via his Truth Social platform that Bondi and the Department of Justice investigate Epstein's connections and relationships, including those with Clinton - who denies any wrongdoing.

Pressure on Trump grows in US Congress

Trump is facing increasing pressure to disclose all records related to the affair involving the sex offender Epstein.

This was one of his campaign promises, but since taking office in January, nothing has happened.

A vote in the House of Representatives on the records is planned for next week, though the exact day is still unclear.

Some Republicans, representatives of Trump's party, and the Democrats have pushed for the vote.

What is the Epstein case about?

The influential US multimillionaire Epstein operated an abuse ring for many years, victimizing dozens of young women and minors. He also personally abused his victims.

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The financier from New York died in 2019 at the age of 66 in his prison cell. The autopsy report cited suicide as the cause of death.

Epstein's death and his connections to US high society sparked speculation about the possible involvement of influential individuals.

Before his arrest, celebrities and billionaires moved in his circle. Trump also spent time with Epstein, as several party videos confirm.

Clinton denies allegations

This is not the first time Trump has tried to shift attention to Clinton. In July, he had already said that people should talk about the former US president. The Democrat Clinton, 79, was US president from 1993 to 2001.

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A spokesman for Clinton had stated years ago that the Democrat had not had anything to do with Epstein for more than a decade and knew nothing about the crimes.

Notorious island in the Caribbean

Epstein owned a private island in the Caribbean, which is said to have been a crime scene. Trump claimed earlier this year that Clinton had been there many times.

However, Clinton's spokesman stated years ago that Clinton had never been to Little St James Island, Epstein's ranch in New Mexico, or his residence in Florida.

Clinton had undertaken four trips with Epstein's plane in 2002 and 2003  also in the context of his foundation's work.

In 2002, the spokesman said, there was a meeting with Epstein in his office in Harlem, and around the same time, Clinton, along with a staff member and bodyguards, visited Epstein's New York apartment.
The head of an association representing state prosecutors in Georgia announced Friday that he will take over a criminal case charging President Donald Trump with conspiring to overturn his 2020 election loss in the state.

The decision by longtime prosecutor Peter Skandalakis to essentially refer the case to himself comes after he struggled for months to get another district attorney in the state to agree to take over the high-profile case. The latest development has the potential to reinvigorate the long-stalled prosecution of numerous Trump allies, including former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, but likely means little for Trump in the short term due to protections the courts are likely to grant a sitting president.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis brought the case in August 2023, charging Trump and 18 co-defendants with involvement in a wide-ranging conspiracy to corruptly persuade George Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to find about 12,000 votes in order to declare Trump the winner, to advance a slate of Trump electors despite his loss, and to tamper with election equipment. The case, in which Trump pleaded not guilty, produced Trumps infamous mugshot.

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Four Trump allies pleaded guilty early in the case, but it bogged down in early 2024 over Willis romantic relationship with a special prosecutor she hired to join her office's trial team, Nathan Wade. Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee found that relationship created the appearance of a conflict of interest. The judge said Willis could stay on the case if Wade stepped off, which he did.

But defense lawyers appealed that decision and a higher court ruled last December that the case needed to be assigned to another prosecutor.

The Friday announcement comes a day after the Nevada Supreme Court revived a criminal case against six Republicans who falsely claimed to be presidential electors for Trump in 2020, part of the same push by Trump to subvert the election that led to his charges in Georgia.

On a court-imposed deadline Friday for a new prosecutor in the Georgia case, the head of the state's Prosecuting Attorneys Council said he was reluctantly taking on the task himself.

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The filing of this appointment reflects my inability to secure another conflict prosecutor to assume responsibility for this case. Several prosecutors were contacted and, while all were respectful and professional, each declined the appointment, Skandalakis said in a statement, declining to elaborate on precisely who was asked and why they demurred.

While it would have been simple to allow Judge McAfees deadline to lapse or to inform the Court that no conflict prosecutor could be secured  thereby allowing the case to be dismissed for want of prosecution  I did not believe that to be the right course of action, Skandalakis added. The public has a legitimate interest in the outcome of this case. Accordingly, it is important that someone make an informed and transparent determination about how best to proceed.

Skandalakis, a Republican, served for more than 25 years as the district attorney for Coweta County in the southwest Atlanta suburbs. He said Friday he would approach the politically charged election case without bias.

My only objective is to ensure that this case is handled properly, fairly, and with full transparency discharging my duties without fear, favor, or affection, he said.

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Trumps lead defense lawyer in the case, Steve Sadow, expressed guarded optimism that the new prosecutor would end the case.

This politically charged prosecution has to come to an end. We remain confident that a fair and impartial review will lead to a dismissal of the case against President Trump, Sadow said.

The announcement of the new prosecutor for the long-stalled 2020 election case came in the same week that Trump announced pardons for all of his co-defendants in that case, as well as similar criminal cases in other states where Trump was not charged. Trumps pardons apply only to potential federal charges, which have never been filed and seem unlikely to arise, but supporters of the pardons said they hoped the Georgia defendants and others would argue that the presidents move undercuts the state cases.

In 2021, Skandalakis was appointed to take over the prosecution of two Atlanta police officers charged in connection with the killing of Black motorist Rayshard Brooks in an altercation that stemmed from a complaint he was asleep in a car in a Wendys drive-through lane. Skandalakis wound up dismissing the criminal cases against both officers.


President Donald Trump gloated over news that Republican Rep. Thomas Massie has remarried after the death of his first wife last year  which proved a step too far for some of his MAGA loyalists.

The Kentucky representative announced on Nov. 3 that he remarried last month following the sudden death of his first wife of 31 years, Rhonda, in June 2024.

Trump, who has been married three times, took a swipe at Massie and his new bride, Carolyn Moffa, whom he met 10 years ago when she worked as a policy staffer for Senator Rand Paul.

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Did Thomas Massie, sometimes referred to as Rand Paul Jr., because of the fact that he always votes against the Republican Party, get married already??? Boy, that was quick! Trump said in a post Friday on Truth Social.

No wonder the Polls have him at less than an 8% chance of winning the Election, Trump continued. Anyway, have a great life Thomas and (?). His wife will soon find out that shes stuck with a LOSER!

President Donald Trump gloated over news that Rep. Thomas Massie has remarried after the death of his first wife last year (Getty Images)

The Independent has contacted Massies office for comment.

Trump was called out by some of his own MAGA faithful, including his former attorney Jenna Ellis, who was among those who falsely claimed the 2020 election was stolen from Trump.

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Ellis accused Trump of political mud-slinging and publicly denounced his remarks about Massies new wife.

I know personally from my friendship of more a decade with Massie how incredibly difficult it was to find himself suddenly a widower and losing his best friend, Ellis said in a post on X.

Some things are still sacred and should still be beyond this kind of political mud-slinging, she said.

Right-wing commentator Evan Kilgore said Trumps post was disgusting.

Donald Trump just attacked Thomas Massie for getting re-married recently after his wife tragically passed away last year, Kilgore said on his X account. He then uses it as an attack on @RepThomasMassie to imply he is going to lose his next election.

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This is actually disgusting, he continued. Donald Trump has lost me.

Conservative commentator Rebekah Worsham, whose X account the Patriotic Blonde has more than 100,000 followers, sarcastically mocked Trump for his comment about Massie.

Trumps swipe at Massie has upset even some of his most faithful supporters (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

How presidential, she said, quoting Trump.

Other accounts proclaiming to be America First also criticized the president.

This is so low, said another. Its bad enough that Trump attacks Thomas Massie (whos actually America First) but dont bring his wife into this. Disgusting.

This is very nasty by Trump, said another America First X user.

Massie has led the charge in defying the president by calling for the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files, joining forces with Democrats and other rebel GOP lawmakers, including Marjorie Taylor Greene.

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The Georgia representative, once a Trump loyalist, has found herself on the receiving end of the presidents ire after she refused to back down in calling for the release of the Epstein files.

The pair are in the midst of a public feud, while Massie has been at loggerheads with Trump for years.
President Donald Trump has  for the second time  pardoned Dan Wilson, a militia member who joined the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021 and was also convicted of illegally possessing firearms in his Kentucky home.

Trump had already erased Wilsons felony conviction for his role in the riot when he issued his Inauguration Day pardon for all of the participants in the attack. But Wilson was one of a handful of Jan. 6 defendants who remained incarcerated for other federal crimes. He was due to be released from prison in 2028.

Trumps new full and unconditional pardon, dated Nov. 14, explicitly references Wilsons firearms case, which ended with him pleading guilty to two felony gun offenses. Wilson, who has identified himself as a member of the Oath Keepers and Gray Ghost Partisan Rangers militia, had also pleaded guilty for his conduct on Jan. 6, which included a charge of conspiring to impede or injure a federal officer. U.S. District Judge Dabney Friedrich, a Trump appointee, sentenced Wilson to five years in prison, a sentence that began shortly before Trump took office.

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Dan Wilson is a good man. After more than 7 months of unjustified imprisonment, he is relieved to be home with his loved ones, said Wilsons attorneys, George Pallas and Carol Stewart, in a statement to POLITICO. This act of mercy not only restores his freedom but also shines a light on the overreach that has divided this nation.

In February, the Trump administration argued that Trumps pardon did not cover Wilsons firearms conviction, saying it was unrelated to the Jan. 6 attack. But within weeks, the Justice Department reversed course, saying it had reconsidered and believed the pardon should apply to Wilsons gun crimes because they were discovered during an FBI search related to the riot.

Friedrichsharply rejected the administration's shifting position, saying it had stretched the bounds of Trumps pardon too far. She noted the Justice Department had taken inconsistent positions in other cases across the country. Trump, she said, could always issue a second pardon to cover the firearms offenses. An appeals court later backed her up, requiring Wilson to remain in prison while he appealed Friedrichs ruling.

The Justice Department declined to comment on the new pardon. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro had previously indicated her office would not defend Wilsons continued incarceration during the appeal.

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A White House official, speaking on condition of anonymity to describe the reasoning behind the presidents pardon, said the discovery of unauthorized firearms would not have happened without the broader Jan. 6 investigation.

Because the search of Mr. Wilsons home was due to the events of January 6, and they should have never been there in the first place, President Trump is pardoning Mr. Wilson for the firearm issues, the official said.

The Justice Department has opposed efforts by another Jan. 6 defendant, David Daniel, to make an identical argument after the FBI discovered child pornography on his computer during a Jan. 6-related search. The White House official emphasized that Wilsons pardon was specific to his circumstances and not meant to apply beyond his individual case. Daniel is slated to go on trial later this year and is still fighting to apply Trumps original pardon to the charge.

The administrations effort to expand Trumps original pardon to cover a wide range of crimes unrelated to the Jan. 6 attack tested the legal boundaries of the pardon power itself in unprecedented ways. A judge in Florida released Jan. 6 defendant Jeremy Brown, also an Oath Keeper, from a seven-year sentence after his attorneys and the Justice Department claimed the Jan. 6 pardon covered Browns unrelated conviction for illegally possessing classified information and grenades.

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Despite initial resistance from a judge in Maryland, a third Jan. 6 defendant, Elias Costianes, was also released from jail after the Justice Department declined to fight the appeal of his conviction for illegally possessing firearms.

Notably, the Justice Department refused to argue that Trumps pardon extended to a criminal charge related to the discovery of child pornography on the computer of a Jan. 6 defendant in North Carolina, even though the material was discovered during the execution of a search warrant related to the attack. An appeals court in California is still weighing a bid by Jan. 6 defendant Benjamin Martin to extend the pardon to cover his own firearms convictions. But the court agreed to allow Martin to remain out of prison while his appeal is pending.

And another Jan. 6 defendant, Edward Kelley, was recently sentenced to life in prison for conspiring to kill the officers and FBI agents who investigated his involvement in the Jan. 6 attack. Kelley had contended Trumps pardon covered the conspiracy charge, but the Justice Department opposed him.
President Trump has issued a second pardon to a January 6 defendant who remained imprisoned on separate gun offenses, leading to his release on Friday.

Dan Wilson was one of the supporters of Mr. Trump who breached the Capitol on January 6, 2021. The Justice Department said in a 2024 news release that Wilson was a militia member who entered the building in a gas mask.

He pleaded guilty to a charge of conspiracy to impede or injure a federal officer in May 2024 and was sentenced to five years in prison.

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He was pardoned on that charge in January 2025 when Mr. Trump granted clemency for about 1,500 January 6 defendants.

Despite the pardon, Wilson remained incarcerated. Authorities had searched his home in June 2022 as part of their investigation into his presence at the Capitol.

They recovered "numerous firearms and ammunition," the Justice Department said, which he was forbidden from possessing because of previous felony convictions.

Wilson pled guilty to a charge of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and a charge of possession of an unregistered firearm, and was set to remain in prison until 2028.

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A White House official told CBS News that Mr. Trump was pardoning Wilson because the home search that led to the discovery of the firearms was part of the investigation into Wilson's January 6 charges.

Wilson's pardon, reviewed by CBS News, was dated to Friday. He was released from prison on Friday evening, his lawyer George Pallas told the Associated Press.

"For too long, my client has been held as a political prisoner by a government that criminalized dissent," Pallas said in a statement to CBS News. "President Trump's pardon rights this wrong and sends a clear message that peaceful Americans will not be persecuted for their beliefs. Mr. Wilson is innocent, he has always been innocent, and this pardon proves it."

Pro-Trump protesters gather in front of the U.S. Capitol Building on January 6, 2021 in Washington, DC. / Credit: Jon Cherry / Getty Images

A sprawling legal battle

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Wilson's case became part of a legal debate over whether Mr. Trump's pardon of January 6-related crimes applied to other offenses discovered in investigations related to those charges. Mr. Trump has downplayed the events of the attack and referred to those jailed in connection with it as "hostages."

Wilson planned to participate in the riot at the Capitol for weeks, according to the Justice Department's 2024 news release, and occasionally discussed bringing firearms. He ultimately arrived unarmed.

Throughout the day, he provided information in messaging channels about where people needed support as they worked to enter the Capitol, the Justice Department said. He also spoke to other members of far-right groups, including the Oath Keepers.

The Justice Department initially argued that Trump's pardons did not extend to Wilson's gun charges, but later changed its position, saying that it had received "further clarity on the intent of the Presidential Pardon."

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U.S. District Judge Dabney Friedrich, who oversaw Wilson's case and was nominated by Mr. Trump during his first term, criticized the move and called efforts to extend the pardon to cover offenses discovered in the course of the investigations "extraordinary," according to the Associated Press.

Mr. Trump also pardoned Suzanne Kaye, a Florida woman who was sentenced to 18 months in prison for threatening to shoot FBI agents. Kaye was questioned by FBI agents after saying online that she had been at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, according to CBS Miami. When contacted by agents, Kaye denied she had been there, but still agreed to speak with them, CBS Miami reported.

In her video, posted to multiple platforms after that conversation but before her interview, Kaye said she would not talk to the FBI without a lawyer and that she would "my second amendment right to shoot your f------ ass if you come here," according to CBIS Miami. A White House official described Kaye's comments as "voicing her displeasure with the FBI using curt language," and said that it was "clearly a case of disfavored First Amendment political speech being prosecuted and an excessive sentence."

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President Donald Trump on Friday pardoned Dan Wilson, a former Jan. 6 defendant, for a second time on gun charges not related to his conduct during the 2021 riot at the Capitol.

Wilson pleaded guilty in May 2024 to three crimes including a charge of impeding or injuring an officer in connection with the Jan. 6 attack, and two gun charges in Kentucky from 2023, when his home was searched as part of the Jan. 6 investigation.

A White House official confirmed the new pardon to NBC News, saying that Trump decided to do so because Wilsons gun charges stemmed from the Jan. 6 investigation.

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Wilson was originally pardoned in January on the Capitol riot-related charge as part of Trumps mass pardon of roughly 1,500 Jan. 6 defendants shortly after he was inaugurated to a second term.

George Pallas, an attorney for Wilson, told NBC News he was elated following Trumps new pardon.

As Dan Wilsons attorney, I am elated by President Trumps bold and unapologetic pardon which shatters this sham conviction stemming from the January 6 witch hunt. This is a resounding victory for justice, and against judicial overreach. Dan can now move forward and we applaud this decisive step toward true accountability and national reconciliation, Pallas said.

Ed Martin, the Justice Departments pardon attorney, on Saturday said in a post on X that the president had also pardoned Suzanne Kaye, another former Jan. 6 defendant.

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Kaye had been sentenced to prison in 2023 for threatening FBI agents online.

Earlier this year, the Trump administration tried to argue in federal court that the mass pardon following the presidents inauguration should also apply to the gun charges Wilson was facing.

But at the time, U.S. District Judge Dabney L. Friedrich was skeptical of the governments argument, pointing to the fact that its stance had shifted.

After the mass pardon earlier this year, Wilson was freed from prison. Shortly afterward, the government said his release was erroneous and he still had to serve time for the gun charges. Only later did the government try to convince Friedrich that Trumps January pardon did apply to Wilsons gun charges.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
President Donald Trump says he's "sort of made up my mind" on whether to take military action in Venezuela, a move that would escalate an already tense situation after the United States spent two months striking alleged drug boats in the Caribbean.

"I cant tell you what it would be, but Ive sort of made up my mind," Trump told reporters on Air Force One on Nov. 14. "Well see what happens. I mean, I cant tell you what it is but weve made a lot of progress on Venezuela in terms of stopping drugs from pouring in."

The United States deployed F-35 aircraft, warships and a nuclear submarine to the region as part of a military buildup following two months of deadly strikes against boats off Venezuela. Earlier this week, the Gerald Ford aircraft carrier strike group moved into the Latin America region - bringing with it more than 75 military aircraft and over 5,000 troops.

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More: What a century of US interventions in Latin America say about Trumps Venezuela gambit

Sept. 15, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a boat allegedly trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea. Sept. 15, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a boat allegedly trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea. Oct. 3, 2025: The U.S. military killed four people in a strike on a vessel that was allegedly transporting substantial amounts of narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 3. Oct. 3, 2025: The U.S. military killed four people in a strike on a vessel that was allegedly transporting substantial amounts of narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 3. Oct. 17, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel alleged to be smuggling drugs for Ejercito de Liberacion Nacional (ELN), Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 17. Oct. 17, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel alleged to be smuggling drugs for Ejercito de Liberacion Nacional (ELN), Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 17. Oct. 21, 2025: The U.S. military killed two people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 21, 2025: The U.S. military killed two people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 22, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 22, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 24, 2025: The U.S. military killed six people in a strike on a boat in the Caribbean, alleged to be carrying narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 24. Oct. 24, 2025: The U.S. military killed six people in a strike on a boat in the Caribbean, alleged to be carrying narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 24. US military conducts deadly boat strikes against alleged drug traffickers 1 of 12 Sept. 15, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a boat allegedly trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea.

The United Staes refuses to recognize the legitimacy of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, who has held office since Hugo Chavez's death in 2013, as the country's head of state. The State Department is offering $50 million for information leading to his arrest or conviction, an amount they have repeatedly increased since 2020.

Maduro has said that Trump is seeking to oust him from power, but Trump has repeatedly said he is not pursuing regime change. The Latin American country is planning to mount a guerrilla-style resistance or sow chaos in the event of an air or ground attack from the United States.

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro stands next to a sign that reads "Trump go away from Latin America" gives a speech at a rally against U.S President Donald Trump in Caracas, Venezuela August 14, 2017.

"Drugs coming into our country are greatly slowed," Trump said in his comments Nov. 14. He also said the problem isn't limited to Venezuela.

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"But we have a Mexico problem. We have a Colombia problem," he said. "Were doing very well."

Contributing: Reuters.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump says he 'sort of' made decision on attacking Venezuela
The top outside group aligned with President Donald Trump's political operation is jumping into a deep-red House special election in Tennessee to boost the Republican contender there.

The super PAC MAGA Inc. spent more than $15,000 calling voters to shore up support for Republican Matt Van Epps in the special election in Tennessees 7th Congressional District, according to a report filed Friday with the Federal Election Commission.

While it's a modest sum for a deep-pocketed group, it's the first time the super PAC has spent on any race so far this term, according to its FEC filings.

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Trumps late endorsement of Van Epps, a former state official, may have helped push him over the finish line in a crowded Oct. 7 primary. Now, he faces Democrat Aftyn Behn in a Dec. 2 special general election, for a district Trump carried by 22 points in 2024.

While Trump doesn't direct the group's spending, the decision to wade into the special election shows the Trump-aligned political apparatus is looking at the special election. Despite its deep-red tint in past elections, Democrats have made bullish noises about the race after their victories in this month's elections.

Trump just held a tele-rally with Van Epps on Thursday as a way to energize Republicans ahead of early voting, which started this week.

Behn, a state representative, has argued that Trump's stake in the race gives her an opening. She sees a path to victory by defining herself as an accountability candidate who can convince moderate Republicans and independents to put a check on Trump's majority in the House of Representatives.

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While the district has long been solidly Republican, Democrats have done better this year in special elections with lower turnout and fewer Republicans energized to come to the polls.

Van Epps told NBC News in an interview last month he still sees this as a a red seat, and hopes to lean heavily on the Trump endorsement and a promise to continue former Rep. Mark Green's legacy to turn out Republican voters and glide to a win.

There's so far been little ad spending in this race since the early October primary  under $500,000, according to the ad-tracking firm AdImpact. But that could change as the December special election draws near.

MAGA Inc. has already amassed a huge war chest so far this year  almost $177 million through June, the most recent fundraising reports filed with the FEC show.

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Its top donors include GOP megadonors such as businessmen Jeff Yass, Jeffrey Sprecher, Elon Musk and Ronald Lauder. And it also received more than $10 million from the similarly named Make America Great Again Inc., which was the top outside group that boosted Trump during the 2024 campaign, but has since shuttered as the new MAGA Inc. group took over the mantle.

While the phone call campaign boosting Van Epps is the first outside spending this cycle from this new iteration of MAGA Inc., it's not the first time Trump world has weighed into a race.

Two key Trump advisers launched a group earlier this year aimed at defeating Kentucky Republican Rep. Thomas Massie in a GOP primary.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Puebla carries profound cultural significance rooted in Spanish colonial history and Mexican identity. Originating from the Spanish word for 'town' or 'people', it represents the founding of communities and settlements during Spain's expansion into the Americas. The most famous bearer, Puebla de los Angeles in Mexico, was established in 1531 and quickly became a center of religious, cultural, and economic importance, blending indigenous and Spanish traditions into a unique mestizo identity that defines much of modern Mexican culture.



The city of Puebla's historical importance extends beyond its founding to pivotal moments like the Battle of Puebla in 1862, where Mexican forces defeated the French army, creating a lasting symbol of national pride and resistance. This event, celebrated annually as Cinco de Mayo, transformed the name Puebla into a representation of Mexican sovereignty and cultural resilience. The name also embodies artistic excellence through Puebla's renowned Talavera pottery tradition, culinary innovations like mole poblano, and architectural marvels that showcase the fusion of European and indigenous aesthetics.
By Nandita Bose

PALM BEACH, Florida (Reuters) -President Donald Trump withdrew his endorsement of Republican lawmaker Marjorie Taylor Greene on Friday, citing her recent criticism of his agenda in a notable rupture between Trump and one of his most outspoken congressional allies.

"I am withdrawing my support and endorsement of 'Congresswoman' Marjorie Taylor Greene, of the great state of Georgia," Trump posted on Truth Social late on Friday.

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Greene, a member of the House of Representatives, has long been a fierce defender of Trump but in recent weeks she has taken positions at odds with the White House and some of her fellow Republicans.

GREENE SAYS TRUMP 'LIED ABOUT ME'

Trump posted that all he sees Greene doing is "complain, complain, complain." He said the conflict between them began after he shared a poll with her indicating she had little chance of winning a Senate or gubernatorial race without his endorsement, which he did not intend to give.

The president added that conservative voters in Greene's district might consider a primary challenger and that he would support the right candidate against her in next year's midterm election.

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Greene, who has largely avoided criticizing Trump directly, responded by posting on X that he "just attacked me and lied about me."

She suggested he may have been responding to her efforts to get his administration to release any records it has on the case of the late Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender. Trump has dismissed the furor over the Epstein case as a "hoax" pushed by Democrats.

Greene accused Trump of trying to intimidate other Republicans ahead of a vote next week on releasing the Epstein files, calling it astonishing really how hard hes fighting to stop the Epstein files from coming out that he actually goes to this level.

On Wednesday, Greene was one of only four House Republicans who joined Democrats in signing a petition to force a vote on releasing the full Department of Justice files related to Epstein.

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In recent weeks she has also called Trump's rollout of trade tariffs "bumpy" and criticized his foreign policy focus, saying she wants him to prioritize domestic issues. Greene has also disagreed with Trump's contention that inflation is under control and has said Republicans need a plan to address healthcare costs.

Earlier this year she became the first Republican lawmaker to label the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as genocide.

Greene has dismissed speculation that she is positioning herself for a 2028 presidential bid, saying she is focused on her district in the northwest corner of the state.

(Reporting by Nandita Bose and Ismail Shakil; Editing by William Mallard)
Nov. 15 (UPI) -- President Donald Trump has withdrawn his support from one of his past closest allies, U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, calling her "wacky."

Greene, who has served in a Republican-dominated House district in northwest Georgia since January 2021, has sided with Democrats on two issues -- enhanced tax credits for the Affordable Care Act, known as Obamacare, and the release of Department of Justice files involving convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including Trump's relationship with him.

In a lengthy post on Truth Social on Friday night, Trump announced that he is "withdrawing my support and Endorsement of "Congresswoman" Marjorie Taylor Greene, of the Great State of Georgia."

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In a 115-word sentence that highlights his achievements since retaking office, "over the past two weeks ... all I see 'Wacky' Marjorie do is COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN!"

Greene quickly responded on X on Friday night, saying in a post that "Trump just attacked me and lied about me."

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Green of Georgia speaks during a news conference on the Epstein Files Transparency Act at the U.S. Capitol on September 3. File Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

Trump noted why Greene is upset with him.

"It seemed to all begin when I sent her a Poll stating that she should not run for Senator, or Governor, she was at 12%, and didn't have a chance (unless, of course, she had my Endorsement -- which she wasn't about to get!," Trump wrote.

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He also said that Greene was upset that he has not communicated with her.

"She has told many people that she is upset that I don't return her phone calls anymore, but with 219 Congressmen/women, 53 U.S. Senators, 24 Cabinet Members, almost 200 Countries, and an otherwise normal life to lead, I can't take a ranting Lunatic's call every day," he wrote. "She has gone Far Left, even doing The View, with their Low IQ Republican hating Anchors."

Greene posted a screenshot of texts she had sent Trump about the Epstein investigation, noting that she had not "called him at all, but I did send these text messages today. Apparently this is what sent him over the edge. The Epstein files."

President Trump just attacked me and lied about me. I haven't called him at all, but I did send these text messages today. Apparently this is what sent him over the edge. The Epstein files. And of course he's coming after me hard to make an example to scare all the other... pic.twitter.com/EcUzaohZZs Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) November 15, 2025

Trump said he would support a candidate against her in the congressional primary next year.

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"I understand that wonderful, Conservative people are thinking about primarying Marjorie in her District of Georgia, that they too are fed up with her and her antics and, if the right person runs, they will have my Complete and Unyielding Support," Trump said.

Greene was reelected in 2024, capturing more than 64% of her district's vote after 65% in 2022 and 75% in 2020. The district includes parts of Chattanooga, Tenn., and Atlanta metro area.

"I have supported President Trump with too much of my precious time, too much of my own money, and fought harder for him even when almost all other Republicans turned their back and denounced him," she wrote. "But I don't worship or serve Donald Trump. I worship God, Jesus is my savior, and I serve my district GA14 and the American people."

"I remain the same today as I've always been and I will continue to pray this administration will be successful because the American people desperately deserve what they voted for. For me, I remain America First and America Only!!!"

Epstein files

Greene has joined three other House Republicans in signing a discharge petition for the release of documents related to investigations into pedophile and sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.

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There are the necessary 218 votes and House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has scheduled a vote for next week, but the bill will still need be approved by the Senate, which will require at least 60 votes, as well as Trump's signature.

Greene wrote "of course he's coming after me hard to make an example to scare all the other Republicans before next weeks vote to release the Epstein files. It's astonishing really how hard he's fighting to stop the Epstein files from coming out that he actually goes to this level."

"But really most Americans wish he would fight this hard to help the forgotten men and women of America who are fed up with foreign wars and foreign causes, are going broke trying to feed their families, and are losing hope of ever achieving the American dream. That's what I voted for," she added.

Epstein, who had sexual relationships with girls and young women, and trafficked them to other men, was friends with Trump.

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"Releasing the Epstein files is the easiest thing in the world," Greene told Politico on Friday, before Trump's post.

"Just release it all, let the American people sort through every bit of it, and, you know, support the victims. That's just like the most common sense, easiest thing in the world. But to spend any effort trying to stop it ... just doesn't make sense to me," she said.

Government shutdown

Trump posted Wednesday on Truth Social that "only a very bad, or stupid, Republican would fall into that trap. There should be no deflections to Epstein or anything else, and any Republicans involved should be focused only on opening up our Country, and fixing the massive damage caused by the Democrats!"

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Democrats launched the 43-day government shutdown after Republicans refused to include an extension of the subsidies in bills to reopen the government -- a position that Greene broke with her party in support of. Healthcare was the core a federal government shutdown that lasted 43 days.

Greene had been critical of Trump and her party for promising to at least discuss, if not vote, on extending enhanced subsidies for people who buy health insurance through an Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace.

The shutdown ended Wednesday night when Trump signed legislation to fund the government through January, with the subsidies still set to expire at the end of the year.

"It's insanely the wrong direction to go," Greene said. "The five-alarm fire is healthcare and affordability for Americans. And that's where the focus should be."

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Greene noted during the shutdown that her adult children are enrolled in health insurance plans through the ACA marketplace and that their premiums are set to double if the federal subsidies expire.

Greene also has blamed Republicans' election losses earlier this month on going against Trump's initial "America First" agenda.

"This is me wanting my party to do something, to win and do something good for the American people," Greene told Politico.

"It's not me going against, it's me pushing my party to say, this is what we need to be doing Not only is it the right thing to do for America, but if you want to win the midterms, this is what we need to be doing, deliver for Americans if we want them to send us back in 2026."
MAGA Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has issued a stark warning to President Donald Trump amid their high-profile divorce. The Georgia Republican told CBS News that she is starting to feel very sorry for the 79-year-old, saying that his attacks on her reflect poorly on him. The great schism began when Greene, 50, broke with him on the cost-of-living crisis, which Trump insists is a hoax, and the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files.
Britain will drastically reduce protections for refugees and end automatic benefits for asylum seekers, the Labour government announced late Saturday, under new plans aimed at slashing irregular immigration and countering the hard-right.

The measures, modelled on Denmark's strict asylum system, were announced as Prime Minister Keir Starmer comes under pressure from surging popularity for the anti-immigrant Reform UK party.

"I'll end UK's golden ticket for asylum seekers," interior minister Shabana Mahmood declared in a statement.

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But the head of Britain's Refugee Council warned the government the measures would not deter people from trying to reach Britain, and urged a rethink.

Presently, those given refugee status have it for five years, after which they can apply for indefinite leave to remain and eventually citizenship.

But Mahmood's ministry, known as the Home Office, said it would cut the length of refugee status to 30 months.

That protection will be "regularly reviewed" and refugees will be forced to return to their home countries once they are deemed safe, it added.

The ministry also said that it intended to make those refugees who were granted asylum wait 20 years before applying to be allowed to live in the UK long-term. Currently, they can do so after five years.

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Asylum claims in Britain are at a record high, with some 111,000 applications made in the year to June 2025, according to official figures.

- Benefits not guaranteed -

The Home Office called the new proposals, which Mahmood is due to lay out in parliament on Monday, the "largest overhaul of asylum policy in modern times".

It said the reforms would make it less attractive for irregular migrants to come to Britain, and make it easier to remove those already in the country.

A statutory legal duty to provide support to asylum seekers, introduced in a 2005 law, would be also be revoked, the ministry said.

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That means housing and weekly financial allowances would no longer be guaranteed for asylum seekers.

It would be "discretionary", meaning the government could deny assistance to any asylum seeker who could work or support themselves but did not, or those who committed crimes.

Starmer, elected last summer, is under pressure to stop migrants crossing the English Channel in small boats from France, something that also troubled his Conservative predecessors.

- Danish crackdown -

More than 39,000 people, many fleeing conflict, have arrived this year following such dangerous journeys -- more than for the whole of 2024 but lower than the record set in 2022.

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The crossings are helping fuel the popularity of Reform, led by firebrand Nigel Farage, which has led Labour by double-digit margins in opinion polls for most of this year.

Labour is taking inspiration from Denmark's coalition government -- led by the centre-left Social Democrats -- which has implemented some of the strictest migration policies in Europe.

Senior British officials recently visited the Scandinavian country, where successful asylum claims are at a 40-year-low.

Refugees in Denmark are entitled to a one-year renewable residency permit, and are encouraged to return home as soon as authorities deem there is no longer a need for a safe haven.

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Family reunions are also subject to strict requirements, including a minimum age for both parents, language tests and guarantees of funds.

Britain's Mahmood is also expected to announce a tightening of rules around family reunions.

Enver Solomon, chief executive of the Refugee Council, urged the government to rethink its plans, saying they "will not deter" the crossings.

"They should ensure that refugees who work hard and contribute to Britain can build secure, settled lives and give back to their communities," he said.

Labour's more left-wing lawmakers will probably oppose the plans, fearing that the party is losing voters to progressive alternatives such as the Greens.

pdh/jj
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon reportedly informed the IDF that the wall made nearly an acre of land inaccessible to the local population.

Lebanon will file a complaint to the UN Security Council against Israel for constructing a concrete wall along Lebanon's southern border that extends beyond the "Blue Line," the Lebanese presidency said on Saturday.

The Blue Line is a UN-mapped line separating Lebanon from Israel and the Golan Heights. Israeli forces withdrew to the Blue Line when they left South Lebanon in 2000.

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A survey conducted by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon last month found that a wall built by the Israeli military crosses the Blue Line, the de facto border, a UN spokesperson said on Friday.

The Blue Line is a UN-mapped line separating Lebanon from Israel and the Golan Heights.

Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the UN secretary-general, said the concrete T-wall erected by the IDF has made more than 4,000 square meters (nearly an acre) of Lebanese territory inaccessible to the local population.

UN PEACEKEEPERS (UNIFIL) are seen in southern Lebanon from the Israeli side of the border, earlier this week. (credit: AYAL MARGOLIN/FLASH90)

A section of an additional wall, which has also crossed the Blue Line, is being erected southeast of Yaroun, he said, citing the peacekeepers.

UNIFIL requested the removal of the wall

Dujarric said UNIFIL informed the Israeli military of its findings and requested that the wall be removed.

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"Israeli presence and construction in Lebanese territory are violations of Security Council resolution 1701 and of Lebanons sovereignty and territorial integrity," UNIFIL said in a separate statement.

An Israeli military spokesperson denied the wall crossed the Blue Line.

"The wall is part of a broader IDF plan whose construction began in 2022. Since the start of the war, and as part of lessons learned from it, the IDF has been advancing a series of measures, including reinforcing the physical barrier along the northern border," the spokesperson said.

UNIFIL, established in 1978, operates between the Litani River in the north and the Blue Line in the south. The mission has more than 10,000 troops from 50 countries and about 800 civilian staff, according to its website.
United Way of Utah County is seeking Spanish speakers to assist with its program that helps kids from families in need experience a measure of Christmas cheer.

The Provo-based nonprofit put out a call for volunteers fluent in Spanish and English to help families complete the application for the groups Sub for Santa program, entering its 43rd year. Each year, the organization needs Spanish speakers, said Bill Hulderstrom, the United Way of Utah County chief executive officer, since around 20% of program applicants report that they come from Spanish-speaking households.

The volunteers will help process Spanish-speaking Sub for Santa applicants at open houses scheduled through early December in American Fork and Provo. Many slots for volunteers are already full.

The Sub for Santa program provides kids from eligible households in Utah County presents, clothing and books. The goal is to help make sure they have a good Christmas, to support them in their academic efforts and to point those in need to available community resources, Hulderstrom said. Last year, the program helped more than 7,000 kids and another 1,000 or so adults with special needs.
Some in Chicago's legal community told the ABC7 I-Team the U.S. Attorney's Office is bleeding talent.

At least seven top prosecutors are part of an unprecedented leadership exodus from the Northern District of Illinois this year.

Experts say the institutional knowledge from these veteran attorneys will be tough to replace.

"I don't think we've ever seen in this office this many departures at that level in such a short period of time. I do believe it is unprecedented," ABC7 Chief Legal Analyst Gil Soffer said.

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Prosecutors are assigned to one of eight sections in the criminal division. The chiefs lead those sections.

This year, five section chiefs have resigned or announced their resignation from the U.S. Attorney's Office in Chicago. They include Sarah Streicker, Amarjeet Bhachu, Steve Dollear, Brian Kerwin and Scott Edenfield. Erika Csicsila left after serving as the chief of the entire criminal division. Barry Jonas, a top national security prosecutor, is no longer at the office either.

"It's going to be a real challenge for the office. Like many organizations, the office has a pyramid structure to it. U.S. Attorney at the top, line prosecutors at the bottom, supervisors, chiefs, managers in the middle. You can lose one or two of those supervisors over time and not have too much disruption. If you lose too many all at once, it's much harder to replace that subject matter expertise and that management experience," Soffer told the I-Team.

Soffer was a federal prosecutor in the Chicago office for six years.

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"It's almost always the case that a new U.S. Attorney will have a new first assistant as top lieutenant, so that's someone who certainly will change over with administrations. But it's also common that people below that level at the chief level... those tend to be people who are in those positions longer term, and that's why it's so unusual to see so many departures at that level now in so short a period of time," Soffer said.

In February, the Northern District of Illinois told the I-Team they had 144 prosecutors.

Andrew Boutros was sworn in as U.S. Attorney in April on an interim basis and was later officially appointed to role. Under his leadership, the office continues to shrink. In July, they were down to 126 prosecutors.

In August, an unorthodox recruiting email was sent on behalf of U.S. Attorney Boutros, inviting former prosecutors to return to the office.

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"That was in a way, anticipating this, whether by design or otherwise. But you know, you can see there an effort to fill positions with experienced formers," Soffer said.

Now, the U.S. Attorney's Office says it is down to 125 prosecutors. But they say their indictments this year are up 45% compared to the same time period last year.

Many former prosecutors told the I-Team they are concerned about the leadership brain drain happening at the office.

"It's a big percentage. No matter how you slice it, five departures at the chief level, at the U.S. Attorney's Office, is a big percentage," Soffer said.

U.S. Attorney Boutros said in a press release Friday he is hiring several dozen new Assistant U.S. Attorneys in the criminal and civil divisions in the coming months. He is also touting an increase in federal firearm indictments and prosecutions this year, saying his office has achieved "impressive results" with far fewer prosecutors and resources.
By Steve Gorman

(Reuters) -The U.S. National Archives on Friday released several batches of records related to the 1937 disappearance of famed aviator Amelia Earhart over the Pacific, following President Donald Trump's recent order to declassify and release all such material held by the government.

The release of 4,624 pages of documents, including log books of U.S. military vessels involved in the air-and-sea search for Earhart, was announced by National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard.

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Earhart and her navigator, Fred Noonan, were last seen taking off in her twin-engine Lockheed Electra airplane on July 2, 1937, from Papua New Guinea en route to Howland Island, some 2,500 miles (4,000 km) away, during an attempt to fly around the world. Radio contact with the plane was lost hours later after Earhart, 39, reported running low on fuel.

ENDURING MYSTERY

A massive naval search, the most extensive ever at that time, was unsuccessful. Earhart's fate remains one of the most enduring mysteries of the past 88 years.

The Trump administration's sudden interest in Earhart, and the president's September 26 order to declassify and release records about her, came as he faced growing criticism for withholding files related to the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

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The new batch of Earhart material was posted two days after a congressional panel released thousands of documents that raised new questions about Trump's relationship with Epstein.

In addition to U.S. Navy and Coast Guard reports about the Earhart search were various memos, newspaper clippings, letters and telegrams.

The correspondence included a letter from a woman claiming she had deduced by mental telepathy that Earhart was still alive, one from a man insisting she was buried in Spain and a series of government telegrams and memos discounting rumors that Earhart had been taken captive by Japanese forces and executed.

EVIDENCE SUGGESTS EARHART DIED ON PACIFIC ATOLL

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The National Archives said more records would be digitized and posted on a rolling basis.

The fate of Earhart and Noonan remains an open question. But researchers from the International Group for Historic Aircraft Recovery have pieced together evidence suggesting the pair died as castaways on the tiny coral atoll of Nikumaroro, in the Kiribati islands of the western Pacific.

A series of expeditions to that island turned up what appeared to be a jar of anti-freckle cream from the 1930s, bits of clothing, human bone fragments and a pocket knife of the type Earhart carried. A patch of aluminum believed to have come from their plane was also recovered.

In addition, TIGHAR said a sonar image taken from just beyond the shore of the remote atoll revealed what could be a wing or part of the fuselage of Earhart's aircraft.

Some 80,000 records pertaining to the 1963 assassination of President John F. Kennedy were released on Trump's order in March.

(Reporting by Steve Gorman; Editing by William Mallard)
FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP)  Getting high around a campfire in a national park, especially in Wyoming, is likelier to get you prosecuted under a new Justice Department policy cracking down on minor marijuana offenses on federal land.

The new guidance for marijuana on federal land reverses a policy from the end of Joe Biden's presidency that significantly curtailed federal prosecution of misdemeanor marijuana offenses, according to U.S. Attorney for Wyoming Darin Smith.

I want to make it clear for all of our law enforcement partners and everybody out there that we are, we have been, and will continue to enforce these laws, Smith said Thursday.

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Smith has been implementing the new Justice Department marijuana policy since it came out in late September, he said. His office and the Justice Department in Washington, D.C., declined to provide the document or the previous policy to The Associated Press.

Wyoming is home to two busy national parks, Yellowstone and Grand Teton, and like many Western states has thousands of square miles (kilometers) of federal land where the policy applies.

How many citations for marijuana are issued among the two parks' more than 8 million visitors each year wasn't readily available. Smith, who was sworn in as Wyoming's U.S. attorney in August, said his office handles thousands of cases and hasnt tracked recent minor marijuana prosecutions.

Under state law, marijuana has remained illegal in Wyoming for either recreational or medical use. Marijuana is legal for medical use in most states and legal for recreational use in about half of states.

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But marijuana on federal land  be it a national park, national forest, or U.S. Bureau of Land Management area overseen on a day-to-day basis by federal law enforcement  is another matter. Federal law still classifies marijuana alongside substances such as heroin and LSD as a Schedule I drug considered to have high potential for abuse and no accepted medical benefit.

The Interior Department, which oversees national parks through the National Park Service and federal law enforcement on tribal lands through the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs, declined by email to comment on the new policy other than saying it continued to enforce controlled substance laws.

The federal change comes as President Donald Trump's administration seeks to reduce prosecution of some minor offenses in national parks. On Monday, for example, Trump pardoned a runner who left a trail during a record ascent and descent of Grand Teton, the highest peak in Wyoming's Teton Range.

The new marijuana policy's practical effect will remain dictated by resources  namely how many law enforcement officers are available  to investigate marijuana offenses, said Laurie Levenson, a Loyola Marymount University professor and former federal prosecutor.

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What it means, though, is it gives a lot of discretion back to the federal law enforcement and rangers to decide if they want to bring charges, Levenson said.

More enforcement might be possible after the Interior Department announced Friday it was recruiting 500 highly qualified, experienced law enforcement officers to work for the National Park Service.

How federal prosecutors in other states were implementing the new policy was unclear. Spokespeople for the U.S. attorneys in Arizona and Montana did not return messages seeking comment. The U.S. attorney's office in Colorado declined to comment.

Charging and prosecuting minor marijuana offenses can be useful for investigations into more serious crimes, said Riana Durrett, director of the University of Nevada-Las Vegas Cannabis Policy Institute.

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Maybe that is not at play here but it could be, Durrett said by email.

A representative of the marijuana legalization advocacy group NORML downplayed the policy's significance, saying federal authorities never stopped enforcing marijuana laws under the Biden administration.

That said, it seems like a misplaced use of limited federal resources for the Trump administration to engage in rigorously prosecuting those who possess small amounts of cannabis on federal lands, NORML Deputy Director Paul Armentano said in an email.

Trump in August said he was weighing changes to how the drug is regulated, stating that he had heard great things about medical use of marijuana but bad things having to do with just about everything else.

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Biden in 2023 pardoned thousands of people who were convicted of use and simple possession of marijuana on federal lands and in the District of Columbia. The pardons followed longstanding criticism of 1994 crime legislation that Biden supported while in the Senate that increased arrest and incarceration rates for drug crimes, particularly for Black and Latino people.

___

Brown reported from Billings, Montana. Colleen Slevin in Denver and Jacques Billeaud in Phoenix contributed.
A major data breach in Somalia's electronic visa system may have exposed personal information belonging to tens of thousands of applicants, including US citizens, the American embassy in Somalia has warned.

It said it had received credible reports that "unidentified hackers" had penetrated the Somali government's e-visa platform, potentially compromising data from at least 35,000 people.

The leaked documents circulating online include names, photos, dates of birth, marital status, home addresses and email contacts, according to a US embassy statement issued on Thursday.

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"This data breach is ongoing and could expose any personal data you enter into the system," the UK has also warned travellers.

"Consider the risks before applying for an e-visa required for travel to Somalia."

Somali authorities have not commented on the breach. But the government has shifted its visa service from evisa.gov.so to etas.gov.so, without providing an official explanation.

"While Embassy Mogadishu is unable to confirm whether an individual's data is part of the breach, individuals who have applied for a Somali e-visa may be affected," the US' statement said.

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The BBC has contacted the Somalia Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) for comment.

Somalia's new system requires all travellers, including those from the self-declared republic of Somaliland and the semi-autonomous region of Puntland, to apply for entry visas online.

Critics say travellers have faced extra fees in certain regions, amounting to double charges.

Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991, governs itself with its own institutions but has not been internationally recognised. Somalia maintains that the region remains part of its sovereign territory.

The alleged breach adds to long-running tensions between Mogadishu and Hargeisa over control of Somali airspace. While Somalia re-established full control of its airspace in 2017, Somaliland continues to contest the arrangement.

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The dispute escalated further this week when Somaliland's President Abdirahman Irro said Somaliland would not accept Somalia's e-visa and ordered that airlines must obtain clearance from Hargeisa before entering its airspace.

Yet major airlines have refused to board passengers without Somalia's e-visa approval.

On Saturday, Somaliland's Foreign Minister Abdirahman Dahir Aadan again insisted that "anyone travelling to Somaliland will obtain their visa on arrival", saying Somalia's e-visa system was not safe and warning that "people's data can fall into the hands of extremist groups" as a result of using it.

The stand-off has left some travellers heading to Somaliland stranded at airports after being denied boarding for lacking Somalia's e-visa.

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Somaliland's Civil Aviation Minister, Fu'aad Ahmed Nuux, has told the BBC that the directives - first announced earlier this year - came into effect on 10 November.

He said airlines that do not comply will be told to divert, and claimed several aircraft had already been rerouted.

Footage released by Somaliland's aviation ministry appears to show local air-traffic controllers issuing instructions to international pilots - a move celebrated domestically as an assertion of Somaliland's autonomy.

But the Somalia Civil Aviation Authority insists it retains sole administrative and legal control over the Mogadishu Flight Information Region (FIR), which covers the whole nation's airspace. It has ordered all aircraft to ignore any instructions issued by authorities other than Mogadishu.

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It warned that failing to comply with Somali and international aviation rules could pose safety risks and lead to "serious legal consequences".

Additional reporting by Natasha Booty.

You may also be interested in:

[Getty Images/BBC]

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The symbolic richness of Raedford extends beyond its literal meaning to encompass profound metaphorical significance. The ford represents life's transitional momentsthose critical points where decisions must be made and paths chosen. This symbolizes the name's bearer as someone who provides safe passage, whether literally as a guide or metaphorically as a mentor helping others through life's challenges. The red coloration carries multiple symbolic layers: it represents the vital life force of passion and determination, the earthy foundation of practical reality, and the courageous spirit required to face and overcome obstacles. In psychological terms, the name suggests someone who bridges the conscious and unconscious, the practical and the passionate.



In broader symbolic contexts, Raedford represents the intersection of nature and human endeavorthe point where natural geography meets human need for crossing and connection. This makes it symbolic of environmental stewardship, practical wisdom, and the human capacity to work with natural forces rather than against them. The combination of red earth and flowing water creates a powerful alchemical symbolism of transformation and grounded spirituality, suggesting individuals who can maintain their core values while adapting to changing circumstances and helping others do the same.
VANDALIA, Ill.  The Vandalia Police Department is no longer searching for a teen who was reported missing.

Police had been searching for a 13-year-old girl after she was last seen Thursday night.

The department announced on Friday that a body had been found, and a suspect was taken into custody.

Police have yet to confirm with FOX 2 that the deceased was the 13-year-old. The department removed a social media post requesting help in locating the missing teen and directed further inquiries to the Illinois State Police (ISP), the agency leading the investigation.

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ISP did not respond to a request for further information on Friday. In addition to ISP, Vandalia Police reported that assisting agencies include the Fayette County Sheriffs Office, Fayette County Coroners Office, Effingham County Sheriffs Office, St. Elmo Police Department, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and the Federal 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 FOX 2.
The Vatican has returned 62 indigenous artefacts to Canada, 100 years after they were taken from tribes to appear in a missionary museum in Rome.

The items were given by Pope Leo XIV on Saturday to the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB), which says it plans to return them to their original native communities.

The move comes three years after Pope Francis issued a historic apology to Canada's First Nations for the church's role in the "genocide" and suppression of indigenous identity through the residential schools programme.

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A joint statement from the Vatican and the CCCB says the Pope "desires that this gift represent a concrete sign of dialogue, respect and fraternity".

The statement adds that the artefacts "bear witness to the history of the encounter between faith and the cultures of the indigenous peoples".

The items, which came from several different communities around Canada, had been sent by missionaries to Rome to appear in a 1925 exhibition that displayed over 100,000 items.

Among the artefacts being returned is an Inuit kayak that had historically been used to hunt whales in Canada's far north, and a set of embroidered gloves that came from the Cree Nation.

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Canada's ambassador to the Holy See told CBC News that the items are currently in storage in Rome, and will be flown back to Canada on 6 December.

In 2022, Pope Francis made a "penitential pilgrimage" across Canada, where he offered an apology to local tribal leaders. During the trip, the communities requested the return of their artefacts.

The CCCB says the items will be transferred to Canada's National Indigenous Organizations which "will then ensure that the artefacts are reunited with their communities of origin".

The cost of repatriating the items has been prepaid by the tribes, which plan to hold ceremonies before they can be officially returned, according to CBC.

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Canadian Foreign Minister praised the move, calling it, "an important step that honours the diverse cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples and supports ongoing efforts toward truth, justice, and reconciliation".

The items had been held in the Vatican Museum's ethnographic collection, known as the Anima Mundi museum. The church has described the items as "gifts" that were given by tribal leaders. Critics have disputed this characterisation, given the power imbalance at the time they were transferred.

The items were taken to Europe during a time when Canadian law, as well as Catholic decrees, prohibited native spiritual practices, leading to a ban on certain items used during ceremonies.
A century-old Inuvialuit kayak once used for beluga and whale hunts, and 61 other cultural objects from First Nations, Metis and Inuit communities have long been held in Vatican Museums vaults.

But the cultural items will be returned to Canada on Dec. 6 after Pope Leo XIV gifted them to the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) on Saturday, said a joint statement by the Vatican and the conference.

The announcement was made following a meeting at the Holy See between the Pope and a CCCB delegation, including its president, Bishop Pierre Goudreault, Rev. Richard Smith, archbishop of Vancouver, and Rev. Jean Vezina, general secretary.

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At the conclusion of the journey initiated by Pope Francis that included his apostolic journey to Canada in 2022, various audiences with Indigenous communities and the publication of the Declaration on the Doctrine of Discovery in 2023, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV desires that this gift represent a concrete sign of dialogue, respect and fraternity, the statement said.

It also said the Pope has given the objects to the CCCB, who are committed to ensuring that these artifacts are properly safeguarded, respected and preserved.

"The CCCB will proceed, as soon as possible, to transfer these artifacts to the National Indigenous Organizations (NIOs). The NIOs will then ensure that the artifacts are reunited with their communities of origin," the Canadian bishops said.

The negotiations were led by Indigenous groups and had been ongoing for two years. The expense of the negotiations and the return of the cultural objects to date have been prepaid by Indigenous groups.

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Joyce Napier is Canadian ambassador to the Holy See who was part of the Canadian government effort to help repatriate the cultural items.

Calling the return of the items a historic day, Napier added, There have been many conversations with the Vatican and CCCB, and it was clear the Vatican wished to return the objects, with Pope Franciss illness and death temporarily slowing the negotiations, she added.

Napier said the items, now in vaults inside the Vatican Museums, will be packaged in crates and flown to Montreal via Frankfurt on an Air Canada flight set to arrive on Dec. 6.

From there, they will be shipped to the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, Que., where experts will assess their condition, confirm their origins and work with Indigenous representatives to decide where they should ultimately end up.

Pope Leo delivers a speech at the Pontical Lateran University in Rome on Friday. The next day, the Pope gifted the Indigenous cultural objects from Canada to a delegation of Catholic bishops. (Alessandra Tarantino/The Associated Press)

After years of calls for repatriation, the move is being seen as a significant step for Indigenous communities where for decades children were taken from their families and forced to attend Catholic Church-run residential schools, where abuse was rampant.

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Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand also welcomed the move.

"This is an important step that honors the diverse cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples and supports ongoing efforts toward truth, justice, and reconciliation," Anand wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

The return of the items is structured as a church-to-church gift, which Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni said is the how the Vatican gives back cultural objects, allowing it to avoid setting a precedent of returning items directly to nations or communities.

In 2023, a year after Pope Franciss penitential trip to Canada when he apologized for some members of the Catholic Churchs role in residential schools, Francis acknowledged the importance of restitution of the items, many considered sacred by some First Nations. During meetings in Italy, Canada's prime minister at the time, Justin Trudeau, and later Foreign Minister Melanie Joly pressed the Pope and the Vatican secretary of state to return the cultural objects.

Thread-embroidered gloves, attributed to the Cree from Canada's central sub-Arctic, on display at the Vatican Museums along with other Indigenous items. (Submitted)

The kayak was among 100,000 objects originally sent to Rome in 1925 for a world exhibition organized by Pope Pius XI, who invited Catholic missionaries to ship examples of Indigenous life from the regions where the men worked. Other notable items include a wampum belt from Kanesatake, Que., that was donated to Pope Gregory XVI in 1831, embroidered leather gloves of Cree origin and a Gwichin baby belt.

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Many of the objects came from Indigenous communities during a period of forced conversion, cultural suppression and the residential school system in Canada, and most remained inside Vatican Museums storage rooms.

Indigenous leaders stress that ceremonies must take place before the items make the journey home.

Some have criticized the church-to-church approach and insisted communities be directly involved in identifying the items.
Editor's note: This story has been updated, Bill Lucia of the Washington State Standard is the author.

SEATTLE  Democratic state Sen. Noel Frame traces her interest in tax policy to her time as a teenager in the 1990s, concerned about scarce funding for her school district in Battle Ground, Washington.

There was something there about taxes that I needed to figure out, she recalled to a room packed with progressives here this week. Here I am, Im 45, and Im fighting the same exact fight that I was fighting when I was 16.

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The upcoming bouts will be high-stakes, with lawmakers vexed by a budget shortfall that billions of dollars of tax increases, coupled with spending cuts, failed to resolve this year.

In the state Senate, Frame, who is from Seattle, is running point for Democrats on tax policy.

The Revenue Queen. Thats how Eli Taylor Goss, who leads the Washington State Budget and Policy Center, described her at the groups Budget Matters Policy Summit, held this week at the Northwest African American Museum.

It was a crowd brimming with the belief that the states corporate titans and tech executives are not paying their fair share, and must shoulder more of the financial burden for publicly funded education and human services.

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Pressure is building for Democrats to take a big swing on taxes, beyond this years hikes. How far Frame and her allies can deliver on that goal in 2026 is an open question. Next years legislative session, which begins in January, is just 60 days and happening ahead of an election.

I want to have a future for Washington state where its not just a rich persons playground, Frame said. I dont want to be called the Cayman Islands of the United States. (The Cayman Islands are considered a tax haven.)

One of the hotter ideas percolating is a possible income tax on wealthier individual earners. Early descriptions suggest a 9.9% tax on adjusted gross income above $1 million.

Senate Democrats have discussed the concept, and its circulating among insiders. Theres no draft bill or firm plan on paper yet, Frame told the Standard.

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Two other significant  and controversial  revenue bills are already on the table. One, the so-called wealth tax, sponsored by Frame, would tax certain assets, like stocks and bonds, over $50 million. Another would apply a payroll tax to large companies with higher earners.

Be prepared to win three times over

Washington is one of nine states nationwide that do not tax individual wage and salary income.

For progressives, changing that is a holy grail in their quest to rebalance the states tax code so it falls less heavily on low-income households. Its also a third rail. A concept Washington voters have repeatedly rejected and that the state Supreme Court has blocked.

Frame said during a panel discussion Wednesday that shes heard more chatter about the income tax in the last six months than Ive heard in the last 15 years.

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Cynics question if this surging interest has to do with businesses looking to prevent their taxes from climbing further by generating state revenue elsewhere.

That aside, Frame had a cautionary message for the audience  many of whom would be counted on to help enact such a tax.

Passing that bill in the Legislature is the first step, not the last. We will need to fight and defend this in court. We will have to defend this at the ballot, she said. If we do it, wed better be prepared to win three times over.

If we are going to do this, we need to do it right, the senator added. And all of you in this room know what that means, what it looks like, and we are going to be the ones that do the work.

Wealth tax still in play

Frames still bullish on the wealth tax.

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Her bill cleared the Senate on a 26-21 vote on the final day of this years session. The House didnt debate it, and Democratic Gov. Bob Ferguson objected to relying on the tax to balance the budget, citing the likelihood it would get tied up in court.

Frame points to its strong public support and years of refining the legislation since it was first introduced in 2021.

We have done everything to this bill that we could possibly do, and there is only one argument left, she said. Its that rich people will leave the state if the tax is imposed, she explained, adding that research indicates thats not likely to happen.

Frame doesnt shy away from her role as a tax champion, even though it puts her at the center of some of the toughest debates in Olympia. Somebodys got to do it, she said.

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The story was initially published by Washington State Standard, a nonprofit news organization and part of the States Newsroom network. Read more at washingtonstatestandard.com.

This article originally appeared on Kitsap Sun: WA legislature likely to debate tax revenue in 2026 session
The ABC11 I-Team uncovers a massive drop in average wait times at N.C. DMV locations statewide in October, but more than half have an average wait time of over an hour.

The I-Team is digging into wait time data from every North Carolina DMV office in the state. The data shows the average wait time during September and October of this year.

The release of the data comes as state leaders say major improvements have been made at the agency, after months plagued with stories about hours-long lines wrapped around locations.

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Rachel Jones from Morrisville spent her birthday at the Durham South DMV, waiting to get a new license. She was already waiting for more than an hour when she spoke with ABC11.

"It wasn't crowded when I got here, which was refreshing to see," she said. "They told me to look at the link, refresh it, and make sure you're seeing where you're at. And so I had 27 people ahead of me. Now I got 20."

NC DMV Commissioner Paul Tine shared with lawmakers on Nov. 6 that wait times are down more than an hour on average since July. He also told lawmakers that the division has also filled a large number of positions with vacancies sitting at just 4%, compared to close to 11% in April.

"Our wait times have definitely decreased about 40% since July, when we implemented some new systems at that time," he said.

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Tine credits the passage of Senate Bill 245 in October with a lot of the improvements made at the DMV.

The new law allowed for a handful of transactions to be handled online, potentially allowing for 400,000 a year to be taken care of virtually.

"It's like having a completely additional day of work for all of our people by having that Senate Bill 245 and we're already seeing some changes in our demand based on that," he said.

The I-Team found more than 80% of DMV locations statewide did see their average wait times drop in the last month, but that's not the case everywhere.

In October, Durham South had one of the worst average wait times in the state, and it went up instead of down.

Average wait times went up in Fuquay-Varina, too.

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In all, average wait times dropped across the state - including in Garner, Cary, and at the Fayetteville West DMV.

At the Raleigh North DMV, wait times didn't just improve. That location saw the biggest drop in wait times compared to any other DMV location in the state.

"I just went in and got checked in and went back quickly. So certainly the quickest turnaround I've had at the DMV," said one driver who spoke with Eyewitness News while leaving Raleigh North.

The I-Team data investigation reveals that even with improvements statewide, long waits persist.

Last month, 60% of DMV offices had more than an hour wait on average, while 23% of DMV offices had more than a two-hour wait on average.

"It would be great in the grand scheme of things if we could just get in and get out," said Jones.

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Drivers tell the I-Team that they like the online waitlist, which shows how many people are ahead of them in line.

Commissioner Tine says new scanners - installed statewide last week - are expected to speed up transactions as well, allowing for at least 100 thousand more transactions to get processed each year.

"If you're going to set up a culture of experimentation, which is what we're trying to do and let the data tell us what we really should be doing next, you have to be able to fail," said Tine.




A sheriffs office in Washington shared body camera video of a man throwing a dog at a deputy, trying to avoid arrest.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Pierce County Sheriffs Office said he also gave them several fake names, hoping they wouldnt find out he had several warrants out for his arrest, including a warrant out of Ohio.

As our sister station in Seattle, KIRO, reported, this happened on November 4 around 8 a.m. while Community Liaison Deputies were checking on a property where theyd recently cleared a homeless encampment.

TRENDING STORIES:

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After clearing a large encampment, its not uncommon for deputies to return several times to ensure that no new encampments emerge, the department shared.

Deputies spotted a tent set up at the Portland Avenue East property and told the man he was trespassing.

After 20 minutes of negotiating, deputies informed the man that he was being detained until they could figure out his real name.

Thats when they say the man threw his dog and tried to run, but slipped and fell to the ground.

There was a long struggle, and a taser deployment finally led to getting him in custody.

The 55-year-old was booked into the Pierce County Jail as John Doe since he could not be identified on scene, KIRO reported.

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He was booked for aggravated assault on a police officer, harassment, resisting arrest, trespassing, and animal cruelty.

After a fingerprint scanner was used at the jail to learn his real name, it was confirmed that he had felony warrants out of Arizona and Ohio, and warrants out of Olympia, Washington.

The dog is okay, and deputies say he is now being cared for at the Humane Society, KIRO reported.

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WATERVILLE  The City Council is considering a proposal to create a Fire/EMS Department Study Committee to evaluate current services and assess future needs.

The move comes as Waterville continues to grow and officials express increasing concern about sustainable expansion and emergency resource allocation.

The recent addition of four EMTs and ongoing discussions about forming a Local Public Health Board are two key issues in Watervilles ongoing debate over public safety funding.

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How do we continue to grow with the growth? Fire Chief Jason Frost asked repeatedly at a recent City Council meeting.

Ideally, the department would hire eight new EMTs to meet rising demand, but officials agreed to settle on four.

One of Frosts key initiatives after joining the department as deputy chief in 2022 was making Waterville a delegated review community.

The designation allows developers to obtain building and other approvals directly from the city, rather than through the state. Frost said the change has eased development by eliminating administrative burdens, accelerating growth in both pace and scale.

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Frost said he is a proponent of growth, but he was quick to point out the 300 to 400 new residential units in the pipeline, the potential for a new hotel and a proposed Colby College research facility  all in a city that also serves as a regional service center. Each, he noted, adds pressure on municipal services.

As a service center, Watervilles daytime population swells to between 30,000 and 35,000, placing even greater strain on city resources.

With a population of about 17,000, Waterville already handles an emergency call volume comparable to more populous communities in southern Maine.

Lewiston, for example, handles about 1,000 emergency calls per month with nearly 80 uniformed police officers. Waterville, by comparison, responds to about 900 calls with just 30 uniformed officers, Frost said.

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As of 2023, Frost said, Waterville ranked as the seventh busiest emergency department in Maine, despite the city being about half the size of the other municipalities in the top 10.

Ultimately, resources depend on available funding  and that funding is tied directly to the tax base.

About 20 percent of Watervilles population is considered low-income, with many residents relying on public and social services. At the same time, residents in higher income brackets have significant expectations of public services, including dependable emergency and medical response teams.

At the Nov. 4 meeting on establishing an emergency response study committee, Councilor Thomas Klepach, D-Ward 3, said, The main way municipalities pay for themselves  is through property tax, one of the most regressive taxes there is.

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Frost recommended a two-pronged approach: studying emergency services in other municipalities and evaluating Watervilles internal systems as a whole.

We need to look at other services in the area, he said.

A study committee, he added, could help examine how other communities operate compared to Waterville, which faces its own set of challenges.

Waterville has a large elderly population, and with the recent closure of Northern Light Inland Hospital, some residents have lost access to their medications. Many are unfamiliar with online platforms for renewing prescriptions, while others no longer have primary care providers to issue them.

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Frost said 78 percent of calls to Watervilles emergency services are for EMS. To help reduce that volume, officials have suggested alternative approaches that might be more appropriate and cost-effective, such as deploying social workers, expanding age-in-place initiatives or investing in community paramedicine programs, which have paramedics provide nonemergency care and preventive services at homes or other community settings to reduce 911 calls and hospital visits.

Since the closure of Inland Hospital, EMS call times have increased as ambulance teams now travel to Augusta.

Frost said he wants city councilors to examine municipal systems as a whole and, specifically, all the services residents fund through their taxes.

The point was made that increasing the load on trained emergency personnel without relief can lead to burnout and high turnover.

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Its about retention. We dont want people to burn out, Klepach said. Adding more personnel isnt just about expanding the service. Its about protecting the service members we already have.

Frost and Councilor Scott Beale, D-Ward 6, noted a desire to attract more young people to Waterville. Although the city is home to Colby College and Thomas College, few students stay in the area after graduation.

Officials said they hope more students will choose to remain in Waterville because, as Frost said, they are the future. To make the city more attractive, he added, there needs to be a fine balance of sustainable growth and trying to provide services.

As development adds more taxable properties to the city and boosts revenue for social services, it also brings more people who rely on those services  a balance city officials said is a fine line to walk.

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We need to take a holistic approach and really look at where were headed as a city  to make sure we are really growing as a city, too  when people move here, to provide the resources that they want, Frost said.

Beale said he wonders whether we would be able to achieve much savings from a study, and also questioned the process of taking these studies and then turning them into actual results.

Ultimately, he said he is not sure whether he would support the study, and believes more time is needed to fully understand the impact of Inland Hospitals closure and the citys ongoing growth.

He added that he is concerned about keeping property taxes reasonable  a measure he acknowledges is highly subjective. Beale, who has focused on school systems and other social services, said, If you have extra money to spend, do you spend it on EMS or on growth opportunities?

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While expressing concern about funding for health systems, Beale said he also wonders if the citys EMS system is good enough, and whether money could be funneled into other channels.

Klepach favored the study, saying, In my mind, the biggest reason to have this committee  (is) it keeps the conversation going, and it creates the structure for whatever entity is going to have to be considering regionalization.

No date was given for when the committee proposal is to be discussed. The next City Council meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, at City Hall.
NEED TO KNOW

A woman and two teenagers vanished on a trip to Yosemite in 1999

A nationwide search was launched, before a series of twists and turns led to the discovery of two bodies

Eventually, a serial killer would confess to the crimes  but not before killing again

When Carole Sund, her 15-year-old daughter Julie, and her teenage friend Silvina Pelosso set out to Yosemite National Park in February 1999, they were planning a tour of one of America's wonders. Silvina  an exchange student from Argentina  was staying with them for three months and was eager to see the wonders of America. So, following a trip to Julie's cheerleading competition in Stockton, the three set out for the renowned national park.

Carole, 42, had phoned her husband Jens from their hotel  the Cedar Lodge  the evening of Feb. 15. The three had spent the day in the nearly deserted park and planned to return for more sightseeing the following morning, she said.

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Later that night, newspaper reports indicate the three ordered hamburgers at the hotel's restaurant when Carole abruptly paid their $21.13 dinner bill. They all left, indicating they would return to finish their meals.

They never did.

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.

People Magazine Cover 1999.

The three were set to arrive home after 10 p.m. the next night, on Feb. 16. But when Jens arrived at the commuter terminal at San Francisco International Airport, his wife Carole, his daughter Julie, and their friend Silvina were nowhere to be seen.

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Initially, he didn't panic, thinking perhaps he had misunderstood Carole's instructions.

"I really didn't think anything was wrong," the property manager from Eureka, Calif. told PEOPLE in a 1999 interview. "We had never had anything bad happen to us."

But the following afternoon, with no word from Carole, Sund called her parents, and learned they hadn't heard from her either  and then discovered Julie had missed an appointment to tour the University of the Pacific in Stockton, which she hoped to attend.

So just after 7:30 p.m. one day after the three were to have arrived home, Jens called the California Highway Patrol.

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A search began immediately, with PEOPLE citing sources at the time who explained that family members (including Jens) were quickly dismissed as suspects after being given lie detector tests.

Four days later, a clue surfaced when a pedestrian walking in downtown Modesto on Feb. 19 found part of Carole's black leather wallet, including her ID and credit cards, on a roadway some 90 miles west of the Cedar Lodge, where they had last been seen.



More than a month later, there was still no sign of the three, and other clues were scant with FBI special agent James M. Maddock explaining to PEOPLE that the disappearance had set off one of the largest missing persons searches in California history.

As Carole's family offered a $300,000 reward for information on her whereabouts and dozens of relatives had joined in the search, the FBI announced they suspected the three had been victims of a violent crime committed at or near their hotel.

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"With the FBI saying they've got to be dead, it's been tough," Carole Sund's mother, Carole Carrington, told PEOPLE at the time. "But we must just think they're alive  we just must."

On the surface, the women seemed unlikely victims.

Relatives noted that Carole  who also shared three younger children with her husband  stocked her car with emergency supplies and once gave a friend a gift of pepper spray for Christmas. "My daughter is a survivor," Carole's father, Francis Carrington, the founder of a multimillion-dollar commercial real estate firm, told PEOPLE at the time. "If there's any chance to be alive to protect those girls, she will be."

Her daughter, meanwhile, was a key organizer of a teen support group called Girls Against Violence.

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Just weeks after PEOPLE published its report on the disappearance, in March 1999, Carole's rental car was found  and inside it, the charred remains of both she and Silvina's bodies. Juli Sund remained missing.

Shortly after that discovery, an FBI agent in the Modesto, California, office, was sent a crudely-drawn map purporting to be from the killer.

"It says, 'We had fun with this one.' And we think that fun means something of a sexual nature thats not good for the victim," former FBI agent Jeff Rinek told ABC News. "Theres a crude map, and the map shows Route 120. It shows Vista Point. It shows Don Pedro Reservoir, and its about forty miles away from where the car was found."

FBI agents did indeed find Juli's body using the map, eventually focusing on a pair of half-brothers from the Modesto area with long criminal histories. But then another victim was found  a 26-year-old Yosemite naturalist named Joie Ruth Armstrong, who was found beheaded.

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One week later, Cary Stayner, a 37-year-old maintenance worker at the Cedar Lodge who had been living and working there throughout the investigation, confessed to killing Armstrong and, eventually the three others. He is suspected of potential involvement in other unsolved murders.

Cary was the older brother of Steven Stayer who, at age 7, had been kidnapped and held captive for seven years. His story captivated a nation and led to the 1989 release of a television miniseries based on his experience, I Know My First Name Is Steven, and eponymous true crime book. He died in a motorcycle accident that same year.

Stayner was convicted in both state and federal courts. He was sentenced to death in December 2002 and remains on death row at San Quentin State Prison.



Read the original article on People
The Texas-based burger chain Whataburger will return to the Tampa Bay area in February, opening a restaurant at 10150 Ulmerton Road near Largo Mall, company officials announced Nov. 5.

A franchisee operated a Whataburger on Ulmerton Road roughly 20 years ago.

This is an incredibly exciting moment for us to be in Largo, said Peggy Rubenzer, Whataburgers chief people officer, during a ceremony at the orange-and-white restaurant.

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Its an honor to begin our connection with the community.

The company plans to open eight locations in the region by the end of 2027, including restaurants in Bradenton and Lutz. Each location will bring 50 to 100 jobs to the area, Rubenzer said.

Largo Mayor Woody Brown welcomed the addition to the citys growing business landscape.

Largo is known as a great place to live, work, play and to own a business, Brown said. On behalf of the commission and residents, we are thrilled to welcome Whataburger back to the Tampa Bay and to Largo. Welcome to the neighborhood.

Company officials have been touring the area with a Whataburger food truck, delivering meals to 150 Hillsborough County elementary school students and donating $10,000 to Feeding Tampa Bays school pantry program.

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The Largo Mall area has attracted several restaurant chains recently, with Chick-fil-A relocating and Raising Canes announcing plans for a new location.

Founded in Corpus Christi, Texas, Whataburger operates more than 1,100 franchises in 17 states and serves made-to-order hamburgers 24 hours a day.
Ely S. Parker, a Tonawanda Seneca from western New York, never took no for an answer.

At the start of the Civil War, Parkers offer to enlist was rejected outright by another New Yorker, Secretary of State William H. Seward, who  according to historians  told the Seneca leader the war dividing America was an affair between white men and one in which the Indian was not called on to act.

Go home, cultivate your farm, and we will settle our own troubles among ourselves without any Indian aid, Seward told Parker, who also unsuccessfully petitioned Congress to grant him US citizenship so he could enlist. Native Americans would not be made citizens until 1924.

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But Parker had connections: He was a close friend of future Union Army Commander Ulysses S. Grant, who eventually intervened and endorsed his commission as captain. He would become a top aide to the Union Armys most revered general.

Melissa Parker Leonard, a descendant of Seneca leader and Civil War Brig. Gen. Ely S. Parker, at a ceremony to posthumously admit Parker to the New York state bar on Friday in Buffalo. - Carolyn Thompson/AP

On Friday, in a ceremonial courtroom in downtown Buffalo, supporters and direct descendants of Parker gathered for a celebration of his resiliency, with the New York Supreme Court Appellate Division, Fourth Department posthumously admitting him to the bar  176 years after he had been denied because Native Americans were not considered US citizens.

The posthumous admission to the bar is fitting and deserving of a man who lived his life with integrity, said C. Joseph Genetin-Pilawa, an associate professor of history at George Mason University who has written extensively about Parker. He didnt give up. He continued to fight for what he believed in.

Parker is the first Native American posthumously admitted to the bar in US history, according to legal experts. The petition for admission was made on behalf of his great-great-great-grandniece, Melissa Parker Leonard, whose father, Alvin, often played the chief in historical reenactments. The effort dates to 2020, when former Texas appellate Justice John Browning, a law professor at Faulkner University, first approached Alvin Parker, who died in 2022.

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Despite all the odds, all the adversity, the Seneca people still reside in western New York, Parker Leonard, a 42-year-old educator and vice president of The Buffalo History Museum, told CNN.

Its recognition not only for Ely, but for anyone who had a role in keeping us here  I really believe my relatives back then, 200 years ago, were desperately trying to maintain their land because they were thinking of us and the generations to come.

Weight of his community was on his shoulders

Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, standing center, with members of his staff, including Ely S. Parker, seated at the far right. - Courtesy of The Buffalo History Museum

At the Erie County Court Building on Friday, the bar admission ceremony opened with a recitation of the Thanksgiving address  an invocation within Indigenous Haudenosaunee communities that gives thanks to the earth and its abundance.

Yes, the day has come, said Justice Gerald Whalen, presiding judge of the appellate division, calling the moment the last steps on the long road to correcting a historic injustice.

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Despite his exclusion, Ely Parker served his community, his nation and this country in a manner that will serve as an inspiration to generations to come, Whalen said.

Parker was born in 1828 on the Tonawanda Seneca Reservation in New York. His birth name was Ha-sa-no-an-da, which means Leading Name, according to the bar admission petition and other biographical information. During his formative years, in 1838, their ancestral land was taken from the Senecas through a treaty historians have called fraudulent.

He studied at a Baptist mission school, where he adopted the name of a minister named Ely. The petition said Parker excelled in debate and oratory in White schools. He learned to defend himself in more ways than one.

Once or twice I have been severely abused, he once wrote in a letter to a friend, according to the Historical Society of the New York Courts. But I returned blow for blow with savage ferocity. Whether I gained the upper hand of my antagonist I leave the public to decide. For mind you, these quarrels were public. Bad business, but it could not be helped.

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He was just a teen, the petition said, when Parker began using his mastery of English to serve as translator, scribe, and interpreter during meetings in Washington between government officials and Tonawanda Seneca leaders.

He wrote letters back home and its clear that this was very emotionally draining, Genetin-Pilawa told CNN. It was taxing on him. I think that he felt like a lot of pressure from his community, like the weight of his community was on his shoulders.

Parkers law studies started when he was 18 with a law firm in Ellicottville, a village south of Buffalo. With no formal licensing requirements at the time, most lawyers received their training reading the law, preparing arguments and sitting in on proceedings, according to the petition  which said Parker was well-educated and steeped in the law by the age of 21.

Still, Parker was denied bar admission. New Yorks highest court had ruled that only natural-born or naturalized citizens could be admitted to practice and, as a Seneca, he was neither, according to the Historical Society of the New York Courts.

His best changed the course of our history

Ely S. Parker - Courtesy of The Buffalo History Museum

Parker instead turned to studying civil engineering, which led to work on projects such as the Erie Canal and the construction of a customs house and post office in Illinois, where he befriended Grant, according to historians. But he continued to use his legal training to serve the Seneca people, embarking with another lawyer on a 20-year battle to win the Tonawanda Seneca ancestral lands, the petition said. The effort secured two rare victories for Native American rights in the High Court.

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During Fridays bar admission ceremony, one speaker lamented Parker is largely remembered for his role as a top aide to Grant during and after the Civil War. He was part of Grants inner circle and was present at Robert E. Lees surrender at Appomattox. He is credited with drafting the articles of surrender.

After today, Elys legacy will no longer appear as a mere footnote in the story of Ulysses S. Grant, said Lee Redeye, a Seneca attorney and deputy counsel for the Seneca Nation of Indians, who, along with Browning, filed the petition for Parkers admission. From this moment forward, Elys life will stand tall on its own merits, an example for all native people aspiring to do great things.

He added, I wish that I could declare that the battles Ely fought in his lifetime are relics of the past, but even now, in this so-called modern age, Indigenous people face a relentless onslaught from external forces determined to erase our way of life.

When Grant was elected president, Parker became the first Native American appointed to the post of Commissioner of Indian Affairs, according to the petition. He experienced financial troubles later in life and worked as a clerk with the New York City Police Department until the time of his death in 1895.

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Ely Parkers posthumous admission is the eighth in US legal history, according to Browning. Previous cases involved Asian American and Black American aspiring attorneys from the 19th and early 20th centuries who were also denied admission due to the color of their skin.

This moment is deeply personal for our family. It allows Ely to rest in the knowledge that he did his best and that his best changed the course of our history, Parker Leonard said.

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Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Rowland carries profound cultural significance rooted in medieval European history and literature. Its most famous bearer, the legendary Roland (French form of Rowland), was a military leader under Charlemagne who became the central hero of the epic 'The Song of Roland.' This 11th-century French epic poem, considered the oldest major work of French literature, immortalized Roland as the ideal Christian knight who died heroically at the Battle of Roncevaux Pass in 778 AD. His story became a symbol of chivalry, loyalty, and sacrifice throughout medieval Europe.



The name's popularity spread across Europe during the Middle Ages, particularly in England where it was adopted by Norman nobility. It appears in Shakespeare's 'As You Like It' as Orlando, demonstrating its literary prestige. In Christian tradition, Roland/Rowland represents the ideal of Christian knighthood - brave, loyal, and faithful. The name has been borne by saints, including Saint Roland of Parma, further cementing its religious significance. Throughout history, the name has maintained its association with leadership, bravery, and noble character across various European cultures.
An 86-year-old woman died as a fire tore through her Queens apartment early Saturday  the fourth fire death to rock the city in a week, officials said.

The fire erupted in the sixth-floor apartment on 12th St. near 41st Ave. at NYCHAs Queensbridge South Houses just after 2:15 a.m., the FDNY said.

Neighbors woke up to choking smoke and firefighters banging on their doors, shouting at them to evacuate.

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I dont know how the smoke got in. Maybe the windows, said Tyrelle Washington, 24, who lived next door to the seniors apartment. I couldnt breathe. I was like, Whats going on?'

As he exited his apartment, Washington saw the octogenarian, a Dominican woman and longtime tenant who only spoke Spanish, being taken out on a stretcher with extensive burns to her arms and legs.

She wasnt moving. Her skin was burned, Washington said. I was on edge. Ive known her since I grew up here. Shes been here quite a while.

EMS rushed the woman to Mount Sinai Queens, where she died a short time later. Her name was not immediately disclosed.

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Once everyone was allowed back into their apartments, Washington peered into the seniors home. The door had been left ajar.

It was just black in there, he said. You could tell something happened in her apartment. I just cant fathom this. It just doesnt make sense to me.

Residents remembered the senior as a sociable, active woman, who would play cards and bingo with other seniors in a nearby park.

She didnt smoke, she didnt drink. She used to play bingo with the old ladies in the park in the summer, remembered one 72-year-old tenant, who only wanted to be identified as Cesar, who appeared moved by her death.

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Why wouldnt I be sad? he said solemnly. She was a nice lady.

The FDNY put out the flames within a half hour. No other injuries were reported.

Saturdays blaze was the fourth fatal fire to occur since Nov. 9, a day after Firefighter Patrick Brady died of a heart attack while fighting a blaze atop a Brooklyn apartment building, officials said.

An 88-year-old man died after a fire broke out in his home on Woodycrest Ave. in the Bronx on Sunday evening, officials said. Three days later, on Wednesday afternoon, a 74-year-old woman died at the hospital after a fire tore through her Upper East Side apartment on E. 81st St. near First Ave.

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It was a white smoke, a ghostly plume pouring out of her door, a fifth-floor neighbor, 42, of the Upper East Side victim told the Daily News at the time. I called the super and the Fire Department. It was very sad. It was very traumatic.

The next day, Robert Germain, 89, succumbed to a fire inside his home on 194th St. near Hollis Court Blvd. in Auburndale, Queens. Firefighters had to battle through hoarder conditions as they fought the blaze.

Germain died at the scene. The senior lived alone and had no children. Neighbors said he was a cancer survivor who was recently listed in remission.

FDNY fire marshals were investigating the causes behind all of these fires, an FDNY official said.
The Brief

A woman was attacked with a hammer while jogging in Bob Woodruff Park in Plano on Thursday afternoon.

The victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was treated at a local hospital.

The suspect, 17-year-old Sergio Noe De Nova Duarte, was quickly arrested; authorities say there is no ongoing public safety threat.

PLANO, Texas - A woman was attacked with a hammer while jogging in a Plano park Thursday afternoon, police reported.

What we know

Plano police responded to an assault call around 5 p.m. Thursday in the 2300 block of Shiloh Road.

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The woman was jogging in Bob Woodruff Park when an unknown man struck her with a hammer at least twice. She reportedly fought back, and the suspect fled the scene.

The victim was taken to a local hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Police said they later identified 17-year-old Sergio Noe De Nova Duarte as the suspect thanks to some of the evidence he allegedly left behind at the crime scene.

They also recovered the hammer, along with duct tape and other items that are not being disclosed at this time.

Duarte is charged with aggravated kidnapping with bodily injury, which is a first-degree felony. He also has an immigration hold.

What they're saying

FOX 4 talked to two women who said they walk the park every day.

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"I don't think you should walk alone. There's always two of us or three," said Mary Ann Missiner.

"We know lots of people who are out here. So if we see someone we don't know, we avoid that area," added Billie Chandler.

Plano police said that because of the arrest, there are no current public safety concerns. They still advise the public to remain aware of their surroundings.

What we don't know

Police have not released a motive for the attack. They said information is being withheld due to the nature of the ongoing investigation.

The Source

Information in this article comes from Plano police.
A woman was left shocked after her message in a bottle was sent back with an angry letter  telling her to stop littering.

Lorraine Forbes, 58, has long been sending plastic bottles with letters inside them out to sea with hopes of sparking a romantic connection with a stranger.

Her messages have received responses from as far as Holland and France over the years  but she says that they have mostly washed back up on the shores of nearby beaches.

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However, Lorraine, from Eastbourne, East Sussex, recently received a nasty shock when one of her letters on the back of a John Lydon gig flyer came back with an angry note from a litter picker.

The letter, which came in a box full of rocks and cost her $9 to accept, read: Please stop throwing rubbish in the sea. It goes to Pevensey Bay or Normans Bay, one day later. Many thanks, a rubbish picker.

Lorraine Forbes shows off the message in a bottle she sent out to sea, only for it to be returned to her with an angry letter. Isobel Williams / SWNS

Lorraine, who has lived by the seaside for 30 years, says that she was very shocked by the harsh letter, as her intentions were only to spark a connection.

She said: I have been sending the letters for years. Whoever writes back to me rarely want to meet me, they just tell me where they found them.

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I just wanted a bit of romance. It has always been a hobby of mine. It is an old-fashioned thing.

Lorraine, who has lived by the seaside for 30 years, says that she was very shocked by the harsh letter, as her intentions were only to spark a connection. Tony Kershaw / SWNS

It was a cowardly litter picker who sent me the response. I had to pay $9 to receive it. I think that it is really nasty. They were trying to make a point and teach me a lesson.

I will never know who the person is that sent me the letter. They refused to put their name to it. If they had I would demand that they give me my $9 back.

The letter, which featured Lorraines name and address on the back, was sent on September 5. The response arrived just over a month later on October 7.

Lorraine usually throws the bottles off Eastbourne pier in bulk, using plastic bottles rather than glass ones so they do not shatter on their travels.

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However, she says that this littering has gotten her in trouble in the past  with staff at the pier telling her off for the impact it might have on local wildlife.

Lorraine usually throws the bottles off Eastbourne pier in bulk, using plastic bottles rather than glass ones so they do not shatter on their travels. Tony Kershaw / SWNS

She says that though the litter picker was cruel, it has been a wake-up call that environmental health officials might find her letters with her address on them and get her in legal trouble.

She said: Eastbourne Harbour have told me off before for throwing the bottles into the water, they keep trying to stop me.

I probably wont keep doing it. This has made me realise that environmental health could find my letters with my name and address and I might get in legal trouble.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced a shake-up at the top of the country's most important energy companies, which are reeling from a major corruption scandal in the energy and defence sectors.

"In parallel with a complete review of financial activities, a renewal of the management at these companies must begin," he wrote on Telegram on Saturday.

He said he had agreed on the next steps with Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko.

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The conditions for a new supervisory board at the state nuclear company Energoatom should be in place within a week, Zelensky said, adding that the firm's executive board would also be completely replaced.

There will also be management changes at the state-owned hydropower operator Ukrhidroenergo, the operator of the gas pipeline system in Ukraine and the state-owned energy giant Naftogaz, he said. Corresponding tenders have been scheduled, he added.

Energoatom is at the centre of the biggest corruption scandal Ukraine has seen since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, which has seen two ministers resign in recent days.

The case centres on millions of dollars in bribes allegedly paid during the construction of protective structures meant to shield energy infrastructure from Russian strikes.

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Two suspects, including one of Zelensky's close associates, have fled abroad.

The Ukrainian president is likely seeking to distance himself from the scandal, not least to avoid jeopardizing further foreign aid for his war-torn country.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday renewed his plea for more air-defence systems a day after Russian strikes on Kyiv killed seven people.

His latest comments came after Russian missiles struck apartment blocks across the Ukrainian capital Friday.

Russia's invasion has dragged on for nearly four years, with diplomatic efforts to end the war failing, and fears are growing for the country's energy security ahead of a fourth winter of war.

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Ukraine said Russian attacks had killed four people in its southern region Saturday.

"Ukraine needs support that saves lives: more air-defence systems, more protective capabilities and greater resolve from our partners," Zelensky said on social media.

Earlier, officials had said the death toll from Friday's attack on Kyiv had risen to seven after an elderly woman died in hospital.

Zelensky said one of the victims was Nataliia Khodemnchuk, the wife of an operator at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant who died during the 1986 nuclear disaster.

"Nearly four decades later, Nataliia was killed in a new tragedy caused once again by the Kremlin," he said.

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Other victims of the attack included a couple in their 70s and a 62-year-old.

Ukraine also said Saturday it had attacked a Russian oil refinery near Moscow.

The Ukrainian army said on social media it had hit a refinery in the Ryazan region near Moscow. The strike, it said, was "part of efforts to reduce the enemy's ability to launch missile and bomb strikes".

Ukraine has regularly staged missile and drone attacks inside Russia throughout the Kremlin's invasion since 2022.

Ryazan governor Pavel Malkov said Russian air defences had shot down 25 Ukrainian drones over the region during the night.

"Falling debris caused a fire on the premises of one enterprise" but there had been no casualties, Malkov said on Telegram.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday announced an overhaul of state-owned energy companies, after a corruption scandal at the heart of a sector battered by Russian attacks sparked a public outcry.

Anti-graft investigators said around $100 million had been embezzled from the energy sector, causing outrage in a country where Russian attacks have resulted in devastating power outages.

Zelensky ordered two ministers to resign over the corruption scheme and sanctioned a former business partner who was named as its mastermind.

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"We are beginning the overhaul of key state-owned enterprises in the energy sector," Zelensky said on X.

"Alongside a full audit of their financial activities, the management of these companies is to be renewed."

He called for a new supervisory board at Energoatom -- the state nuclear company at the heart of the scandal -- "within a week" that would enable a "complete overhaul of the company's management".

He also called for the quick appointment of a new head of hydropower generating company Ukrhydroenergo and other reforms for oil and gas giant Naftogaz and the main gas operator.

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Zelensky has previously said he is committed to fully cooperate with the anti-corruption investigation.

"I have also instructed government officials to maintain constant and meaningful communication with law enforcement and anti-corruption bodies," he said Saturday.

"The full transparency and integrity in the energy sector remain an absolute priority".

The scandal prompted some of Ukraine's European allies to urge Zelensky's government to do more to battle corruption.

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Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The cultural significance of Rudyard is deeply intertwined with British literary history and colonial legacy. The name gained international recognition through Rudyard Kipling, one of the most influential writers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His works, including 'The Jungle Book' and 'Kim,' not only shaped Western perceptions of India and colonialism but also established the name as synonymous with literary excellence and imperial British identity. The name's origin from Rudyard Lake in Staffordshire connects it to the English landscape tradition, reflecting the Victorian fascination with nature and place-based identity.



In Christian contexts, while not having direct biblical roots, the name has been embraced for its connotations of strength and resilience that align with Christian values of endurance and faith. The 'rough enclosure' meaning can be interpreted symbolically as spiritual protection or the challenges of maintaining faith in difficult circumstances. The name's usage reflects broader cultural trends in naming practices, where geographical surnames became fashionable given names during the Victorian era, particularly among the educated middle classes who valued both tradition and distinctive identity.
Women named Solaine are typically perceived as possessing a natural dignity and composed demeanor that commands respect. They often exhibit a warm, radiant personality that draws others to them, much like the sun's gravitational pull. Solaines tend to be intellectually curious with a strong sense of ethics and justice, often serving as moral compasses in their social circles. Their analytical minds combined with intuitive understanding make them excellent problem-solvers and trusted advisors.



There's a notable consistency in their characterreliable, principled, and steadfastwhich makes them pillars in their professional and personal relationships. They approach challenges with quiet determination and often demonstrate remarkable resilience in adversity. While they may appear reserved initially, Solaines possess deep emotional intelligence and form meaningful, lasting connections with those who earn their trust. Their leadership style tends to be inclusive and inspiring rather than authoritarian, reflecting the life-giving qualities associated with their solar namesake. This combination of warmth and strength makes Solaines particularly effective in roles requiring both compassion and firm decision-making.
The Central Government will release the 21st instalment of PM-KISAN on 19 November 2025, continuing its direct income support to farmers. Since its launch in 2019, the scheme has transferred over Rs 3.70 lakh crore to more than 11 crore farmer families through 20 instalments. The programme has expanded its digital ecosystem with Aadhaar-based e-KYC, a mobile app, online status checks and the multilingual Kisan-eMitra chatbot. The government is also building a unified Farmer Registry to streamline welfare delivery. Studies show PM-KISAN has boosted credit access, farm investment and household spending on essential needs.
On November 15, the solemn presentation ceremony of the "Heritage of the Future" International Award was held in Tashkent, Azernews reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev attended the event.

This distinguished award was conferred upon People's Artist of Azerbaijan Alim Gasimov.
Individuals named Taweel are often perceived as possessing qualities of endurance, patience, and steadfastness. The literal meaning of 'tall' or 'lengthy' extends metaphorically to describe someone with long-term vision, persistence, and the ability to see things through to completion. They are typically seen as reliable, determined people who don't give up easily when faced with challenges. This name suggests a personality that combines physical presence with mental fortitudesomeone who stands tall not just in stature but in character.



Taweel is associated with individuals who think before they act, plan for the long term, and maintain their principles even under pressure. Their approach to life is often methodical and thorough, reflecting the extended meaning of their name through careful consideration and deliberate action in both personal and professional spheres. These individuals tend to be respected for their consistency and reliability, often serving as pillars of strength in their families and communities. The name implies a person who measures their words and actions, preferring substance over flashiness and lasting impact over temporary success.
Women named Tien are often perceived as possessing an ethereal quality that combines grace with inner strength. They tend to exhibit natural elegance, compassion, and a calming presence that draws others to them. Typically, Tiens are known for their intuitive understanding of people and situations, often displaying wisdom beyond their years. They approach life with a balanced perspective, blending practical thinking with creative insight. Their personality often reflects the celestial meaning of their name  they can be inspirational figures who uplift those around them while maintaining a sense of mystery and depth.



Tiens usually value harmony in relationships and environments, often acting as peacemakers in conflicts. They tend to be artistic or creative in some capacity, whether through traditional arts, music, writing, or innovative problem-solving. While they may appear delicate, they often possess remarkable resilience and inner fortitude. Their combination of gentle demeanor with strong principles makes them both approachable and respected figures in their social and professional circles. People named Tien often develop a distinctive personal style that balances tradition with individuality, much like the celestial beings their name references who move between different realms while maintaining their essential nature.
Individuals named Wharton are often perceived as possessing strong leadership qualities, intellectual depth, and a natural authority that commands respect. They tend to be strategic thinkers with excellent analytical skills, often excelling in business, academia, or creative fields where their methodical approach and attention to detail serve them well. The historical association with the Wharton business school and literary excellence suggests a personality that values education, innovation, and cultural refinement.



Whartons are typically seen as reserved yet confident individuals who prefer substance over superficiality. They often demonstrate perseverance and determination, characteristics that align with the name's origins describing someone who established an estate in challenging terrain. While they may appear formal or traditional at first, those who know them well often discover a dry wit and deep loyalty to their principles and loved ones. Their combination of practical intelligence and creative insight makes them effective problem-solvers in both professional and personal contexts.
Tata Electronics, a major player in electronics and semiconductor manufacturing sector, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kohima unit of National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), under the administrative control of the Ministry of Electronics & IT, Government of India. According to a release by Tata Electronics, this MOU aims to undertake skilling initiatives in the semiconductor assembly, testing, marking, and packaging (ATMP) sector. This collaboration aims to strengthen the semiconductor skilling ecosystem in India and address the skill gap in the domestic semiconductor industry. Under this partnership, Tata Electronics and NIELIT Kohima will jointly develop industry-standard training programmes and curricula, as well as course content and certifications to equip Indian youth with the skills necessary for employment in semiconductor ATMP and related areas. In addition, Tata Electronics will facilitate hands-on experience for students through internships and vocational training to ensure they are industry-ready. The collaboration has a strategic focus on empowering the youth of Nagaland and the broader Northeast region, enabling them to actively participate in India's semiconductor growth story. Tata Electronics is building a high-volume semiconductor assembly and test facility in Jagiroad, Assam. This facility is expected to create around 27,000 employment opportunities, including 15,000 direct jobs. Tata Electronics' partnership with NIELIT will help skill the youth of Northeast India with the necessary skills needed for the semiconductor industry, not just for its unit in Assam, but also in other parts of India. Speaking about the MoU, Dr Randhir Thakur, CEO & MD, Tata Electronics, said, "The Government of India has envisioned the establishment of a self-sufficient electronics manufacturing ecosystem in India. To build a strong semiconductor industry and for India to become a key player in the global semiconductor value chain, talent is one of the fundamental requirements." Discussing the partnership, Dr Madan Mohan Tripathi, Director General, NIELIT, said, "At NIELIT, we are committed to fostering an academic and research environment which will not only prepare Indian students to chart a successful path in this industry but will also nurture an innovation-driven mind-set." "As envisaged by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, our focus is also on transcending the digital divide in Indian education and delivering high-quality education to the youth in regions like the Northeast. Our collaboration with Tata Electronics will help us enhance our programs and make students job-ready and equipped with skills in alignment with industry needs, by leveraging Tata Electronics' sector expertise and NIELIT's robust digital learning ecosystem and personalised learning solutions," Tripathi added. (ANI)
VMPL New Delhi [India]/ London [UK]/ New York [US], November 15: On the occasion of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 150th birth anniversary, Indian-American author, actor, producer, and entrepreneur Jay Patel released his debut book, "Barrister Mr. Patel." The book was officially launched in a soft launch event by acclaimed actor-writer-director-producer Randeep Hooda, who has supported the project from its inception. The book is co-written by filmmaker Abhishek Dudhaiya. Today, the book received its formal unveiling at the International Book Festival 2025, where it was presented by Shri Bhupendra Patel, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, and Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Hon'ble Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India. The festival launch coincided with the national observances around Sardar Patel's 150th birth anniversary, commemorating India's Iron Man and the architect of national unity. The acclaimed actor, writer, director, and producer Randeep Hooda, who unveiled the book globally and shared his personal connection to its origin, said: "I clearly remember when my friend Jay called me from outside Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's house in London two years ago. He was deeply moved and told me, 'The world knows Sardar as the Iron Man of India and the unifier of our nation but very few know about his brilliance as a student, his intelligence, and his journey as a world-class barrister.' I told him right then, 'You must write that story.' That's how the title Barrister Mr. Patel was born. I'm so proud that through this book, the new generation will learn about the knowledge, courage, and sacrifices of our freedom fighters who shaped modern India." After two years of extensive research, including archival exploration and field work in London, Jay Patel presents a deeply researched and inspiring account of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's early years tracing his transformation from a sharp legal mind into one of India's greatest nation-builders. Randeep Hooda and Jay Patel have worked together as actors in Randeep Hooda's Directorial Swatantrya Veer Savarkar where Jay Patel played the role of Shyamji Krishna Verma , an Indian revolutionary and founder of India House. About "Barrister Mr. Patel" Barrister Mr. Patel captures the courage, intellect, and conviction of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel -- focusing on his journey from law student to one of the chief architects of independent India. The book also explores Patel's moral discipline, leadership, and his role in uniting over 560 princely states into one nation -- values that remain deeply relevant even today. About Jay Patel Jay Patel is an Indian-American investor, actor, producer, and philanthropist, known for solving global challenges through innovation and entrepreneurship. He currently leads DTV Motor Corporation and has co-founded 2020 LLC, which developed advanced technology solutions for the U.S. government in education, defense, and healthcare before being acquired by a private equity firm. A passionate philanthropist, Jay alongside his brother Paresh Ghelani is a core member of the XPRIZE Foundation, which works with global visionaries including Larry Page, Ratan Tata, Peter Diamandis, Robert Weiss, Anousheh Ansari, and James Cameron to create breakthrough solutions for humanity. Through XPRIZE India, the foundation has launched initiatives addressing the country's most pressing challenges from clean water and women's safety to waste management and sanitation. As a creative producer, Jay has also backed the non-commercial Hollywood short film "I'm Gonna Tell God Everything," which sensitively portrays the suffering of women and children affected by war. Speaking about his debut book, Jay Patel said: "For me, Barrister Mr. Patel is not just a biography, it's a tribute to the values of courage, knowledge, and unity that Sardar Patel stood for. His legacy reminds us that leadership built on integrity can shape nations, even a century later." With Randeep Hooda as its global ambassador and launch face, and the book's deep emotional resonance with readers worldwide, Barrister Mr. Patel stands as a timely and heartfelt reminder of India's journey from the courtroom in London to the corridors of independence. (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.)
Gurgaon (Haryana) [India], November 15: La Bella, A Condor Product, a leading women's footwear brand renowned for its comfort, craftsmanship, and contemporary design, proudly participated as the Platinum Sponsor at Amity Law University's Moot Court Competition & Valedictory Ceremony 2025.

The three-day event brought together outstanding law students from across the region, offering them a powerful platform to showcase their advocacy skills, legal expertise, and courtroom presence. Throughout the competition, La Bella's experiential brand stall emerged as one of the key attractions, drawing significant footfall from students and visitors. The brand hosted engaging activities and fun interactions that added vibrancy and energy to the academic event, making the experience memorable for all attendees.

The Valedictory Ceremony, held on the concluding day, was honored by the presence of several eminent dignitaries, including:

* Mr Vijay Kumar Nair, Senior Partner, KNM Partners & Law Offices* Hon'ble Mr Justice Arun K.M. Tyagi, Judicial Member, National Green Tribunal* Hon'ble Justice Suresh Kumar Kait, Former Chief Justice, Madhya Pradesh High Court* Dr Adish C. Aggarwala, President, International Council of Jurists* Mr Samriddha Neupane, Partner, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co.

The ceremony recorded an impressive turnout of over 500 students & visitors, reflecting the success and impact of the event. During the program, Team La Bella was felicitated by Amity Law University for its valuable contribution and support as the Platinum Sponsor, marking a proud milestone for the brand.

Speaking about the association, Mr Hemaparasad, La Bella's representative, shared that the collaboration aligns with the brand's mission to empower individuals to stride forward with style and confidence. La Bella extends heartfelt appreciation to Amity Law University for the opportunity to support its talented young participants.

About La Bella, A Condor Product

La Bella, a proud Condor Footwear brand, offers stylish, comfortable footwear crafted for modern women who value elegance and everyday functionality. The brand wishes all Amity Law University participants a bright and impactful future.

For more details, please visit their website: www.labella.in

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.)
VMPL Riyadh [Saudi Arabia], November 15: Under the patronage of His Excellency Mr. Ahmed bin Aqil Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism, the city of Riyadh witnessed the launch of a Saudi-Swiss partnership during the "TOURISE 2025" Summit, aimed at advancing innovation, developing national talent, and building human capital in the fields of tourism, hospitality, and culinary arts. The initiative supports the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to develop human capabilities and enhance the competitiveness of the national economy. The announcement took place in the presence of Her Excellency Ms. Yasmine Chatila Zwahlen, Ambassador of Switzerland to the Kingdom, alongside senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism, representatives of Saudi universities, and a group of business leaders. Tanmeya Capital, headquartered in Riyadh, leads this initiative in its capacity as Manager of the Tanmeya Hospitality & Tourism Fund (THTF), a SAR600 million investment - almost 140 million euros - vehicle dedicated to developing Saudi talent and infrastructure in the hospitality sector. Tanmeya Capital partners with Sommet Education, the parent company of the world-renowned schools Les Roches, cole Ducasse, and Glion Institute of Higher Education, recognized among the world's top schools in their fields, under an exclusive 25-year agreement to establish and operate a comprehensive educational and training ecosystem within the Kingdom. This ecosystem will train and empower Saudi and international talent according to the highest global standards, addressing the growing needs of Saudi Arabia's tourism and service industries. The partnership seeks to establish a network of academies and specialized colleges in hospitality and culinary arts across the Kingdom, enhancing national capabilities, creating sustainable and high-quality employment opportunities, and reinforcing Saudi Arabia's position as a regional center of excellence in tourism and hospitality education. Mr. Mohamed Musaiqer, Chairman of the Board, Tanmeya Capital said "Human-capital development in hospitality and tourism is a key pillar of Vision 2030 and the Human Capability Development Programme. At Tanmeya Capital, we are focused on building institutional strength, developing capabilities, and raising excellence standards for Saudi professionals to enable them to compete regionally and globally. This initiative demonstrates how purposeful national and international partnerships can deliver sustainable social and economic impact." Marie-Claude Mathieu, member of Sommet Education board and Group General Counsel commented: "This partnership reflects our continued commitment to building strong, responsible, and forward-looking collaborations that create long-term value. Establishing our flagship campuses in Saudi Arabia is not only an expansion of our educational footprint but also a testament to the trust and shared vision we hold with our partners. Together, we are contributing to the Kingdom's journey of transformation by nurturing talent and shaping the future of hospitality and service excellence." Mr. Yassir Al-Sharif, Project Sponsor of the Tanmeya Hospitality & Tourism Fund shared on the occasion: "We extend our deep appreciation to the Ministry of Tourism for its continued support of national initiatives dedicated to developing and empowering Saudi talent. This partnership reflects a national vision to localise world-class hospitality education within the Kingdom and to enable Saudi youth to acquire skills of the highest international standards. We firmly believe that investing in people is the most sustainable form of investment, and our partnerships with leading global institutions represent a practical translation of this ambitious vision." Ahmad Al Sakran, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Tanmeya Capital said :"The Tanmeya Hospitality & Tourism Fund is a national initiative that combines global excellence with Saudi Vision to prepare a new generation of qualified leaders for the Kingdom's hospitality and tourism industries. Through strategic partnerships with Saudi universities and leading international institutions, we are building an integrated educational ecosystem that will equip Saudi youth with future-ready skills and prepare them to meet the evolving demands of the global marketplace." "We are honored to contribute to the Kingdom's transformative vision by empowering future leaders in hospitality and culinary arts. With Glion, Les Roches and cole Ducasse, we bring globally respected expertise to nurture talent that will drive Saudi Arabia's booming tourism and service industries," said Adrian Artimov, Chief Commercial Officer Sommet Education. A strategic announcement to support the initiative During the "TOURISE 2025" Summit, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Tanmeya Capital and Wadi Jeddah Company, the investment arm of King Abdulaziz University to explore the establishment of a new Jeddah campus hosting Les Roches and cole Ducasse programmes, with feasibility studies and required approvals to be completed in the coming phase. These agreements form the foundation of a nationwide educational network, beginning with Riyadh, and Jeddah, and progressively expanding into the western, southern, and eastern regions of the Kingdom to ensure a comprehensive national reach for specialised tourism and hospitality education. This initiative marks a pivotal milestone in the Kingdom's national transformation toward a knowledge- and skills-based economy and embodies the integration of the public and private sectors together with international partners in achieving Vision 2030's objectives. Through the collaboration between Tanmeya Capital, Sommet Education, and their local and international partners, Saudi Arabia is advancing toward becoming a regional and global hub for tourism, hospitality, and culinary education, thereby strengthening its international standing as a leader in shaping the future of these industries. About Sommet Education Sommet Education is the global leader in hospitality, luxury and culinary arts education and training. It unites five prestigious institutions - Glion Institute of Higher Education, Les Roches Global Hospitality, cole Ducasse, Invictus Education and Indian School of Hospitality - that shape the future of the industry and nurture the next generation of talent. With over 400 programs spanning from technical training to undergraduate and graduate degrees, executive education and business solutions, we support 20,000 students and learners across 10 countries and over 20 campuses as well as through cutting-edge online learning platforms. Backed by a global network of 60,000 alumni and an industry-driven curriculum, Sommet Education prepares the future leaders who will set new standards of excellence in hospitality and beyond. To further this mission, the Sommet Education Foundation was created to expand access to quality hospitality education for underprivileged students, fostering an even more inclusive and diverse industry. For more information: www.sommet-education.com About Tanmeya Capital Tanmeya Capital is a Saudi closed joint-stock investment company licensed by the Capital Market Authority to conduct a full range of asset management and investment banking activities. Headquartered in Riyadh, Tanmeya Capital focuses on developing and managing innovative investment funds across private equity, private credit and real estate. The firm is committed to advancing Vision 2030 objectives by enabling institutional and high-net-worth investors to participate in high-impact, well-governed investment opportunities. Guided by a strong governance framework and a highly experienced leadership team, Tanmeya Capital combines regional insight with global best practices to deliver sustainable growth and long-term value for its investors and partners. For more information : www.tanmeya.com.sa/ (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.)
The MoU was signed with the Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board (APEDB), in the presence of Nara Lokesh, Minister for Information Technology, Electronics and Communications, Government of Andhra Pradesh.

Under this MoU, signed on Friday, Anant Raj Cloud will invest approximately Rs 4,500 crore, to be executed in two phases, towards building advanced Data Center infrastructure and cloud services, the company informed stock exchanges on Saturday.

The project is expected to create approximately 8,500 direct and 7,500 indirect jobs, while bolstering the state's digital ecosystem, the company said.

This planned investment and expansion are over and above the company's existing 307 MW of data center capacity currently under development, it said. The collaboration aims to accelerate the development of world-class digital infrastructure in Andhra Pradesh, with APEDB providing facilitation support and coordination with relevant government bodies for timely execution.

Anant Raj Limited currently operates 28 MW of IT load across its campuses in Manesar and Panchkula and aims to expand total capacity to 307 MW by 2031-32 across Manesar, Panchkula, and Rai, backed by a USD 2.1 billion capex plan.

In June 2024, Anant Raj had partnered with Orange Business, the French IT and telecom services provider, to deliver managed cloud services in India.

The Group reiterated on Saturday that it remains on track to achieve an installed IT load capacity of 117 MW by 2027-28 across its three data centre locations.

Established in 1969, Anant Raj started as a real estate company. For the first half of 2025-26, the company reported revenue of Rs 1,223.20 crore and a profit after tax (PAT) of Rs 264.08 crore, it stated. (ANI)
PNN New Delhi [India], November 15: For decades, the default path after high school was clear: secure a seat in a reputed college or university, follow the traditional classroom model and then step into the job market. Today, that trajectory is rapidly changing. A new generation of students is reimagining education by prioritizing hands-on exposure, mentorship from innovators, and flexible degree programs that blend learning with real-world practice. Learning from Leaders, Not Just Lectures: High school graduates increasingly seek opportunities to learn directly from startup founders, corporate leaders, and industry innovators. Internships, workshops, and entrepreneurial boot camps are replacing textbook-driven learning. Students are attracted to environments where they can interact with mentors who have "been there and done that," gaining insights that no syllabus can capture. Institutions such as the MESA School of Business in Bengaluru -- backed by CRED founder Kunal Shah -- and Tetr Business School exemplify this shift. Instead of rote learning, these institutes immerse students in real-world business challenges, entrepreneurial projects, and mentorship programs, blending academic rigor with practical exposure. Students learn by solving live problems and shadowing successful founders, making the learning process highly experiential. The Appeal of Flexibility: Distance learning and hybrid programs offered by prestigious institutions are fueling this trend. Top B-Schools like IIM Bangalore and other top colleges offering degrees in online or distance mode are gaining traction. Such programs allow students to earn a recognized academic qualification while simultaneously pursuing internships, startup projects, or skill-based learning. This helps them to blend a perfect mix of practical exposure and an Alumni Status along with a platform to meet employers in the campus where you complete your Graduation or a post-grad. Changing Role of Degrees: While degrees still matter, the emphasis is no longer on attending lectures five or six days a week. Instead, students want degrees that complement experience. A distance BBA or specialized certification from a top-tier institute becomes a foundation, while the true value lies in the portfolio of projects, internships, and innovations a student undertakes during the same time. This trend signals a broader transformation in higher education. Traditional colleges may need to redesign their models to integrate mentorship, industry-led learning, and flexible formats. As students increasingly view learning as an ongoing, experience-driven journey, the future of education is likely to look less like a classroom and more like an innovation hub. Author notes: "Students today are less interested in simply attending classes and more eager to shadow leaders, learn by doing, and combine degrees with experience. This approach not only makes them more employable but also more entrepreneurial." Please visit for more Information: http://hiteshmittal.in/mediapresence/ani/tribune/ (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.)
VMPL Haridwar (Uttarakhand) [India], November 15: The sacred land of Haridwar, India, is about to witness the creation of a historic chapter that will become a spiritual, cultural, and national awakening center for ages to come. The "Vishva Sanatan Mahapeeth", being established by Teerth Sewa Nyas, will have its foundation stone (Shila Poojan) ceremony on 21st November at 9:00 AM in Bhupatwala, Haridwar (Uttarakhand). This is not merely a religious ceremony but a grand yajna for the global revival of Sanatan Dharma -- destined to re-establish the soul of Bharat (India) as the spiritual center of the world. The estimated project cost is 1000 crore, spread across approximately 100 acres of sacred land. Union of Vedic Wisdom and Modern Education - The World's Unique Residential Gurukul Under the Vishva Sanatan Mahapeeth, a one-of-its-kind residential Vedic-Modern Gurukul is being established. Here, students will receive education in Vedic knowledge, modern science, self-employment, and martial training, along with practical understanding of the four Purusharthas of life -- Dharma (righteousness), Artha (prosperity), Kama (fulfillment), and Moksha (liberation). This Gurukul will revive the glorious Indian tradition where education was not merely for livelihood but for the purpose of life itself. It aims to prepare future Acharyas, Gurus, Yogacharyas, Karmayogis, and Nation Builders. Sanatan Parliament Bhavan - The World's First "Dharma Policy Centre" The main attraction of the Mahapeeth will be the world's first "Sanatan Parliament Bhavan" -- a global platform for Dharma, Policy, and Culture. Here, revered Sadhus, Saints, Acharyas, Dharma Gurus, Vedic scholars, Kathavachaks, and representatives of various spiritual lineages will come together to discuss and declare Dharmadesh (religious ordinances), principles, and policy decisions. This "Sanatan Parliament Bhavan" will become the global headquarters for Sanatan unity and revival, where appointed Sanatan Parliamentarians will pass Dharmadesh for the entire world. The Mahapeeth will also include a Self-Employment and Martial Training Centre, where one lakh (100,000) young men and women will be trained annually as "Dharm Yodhas" (Warriors of Dharma). They will be skilled in every martial art and will support the Indian Army at borders when needed and defend the nation from internal anti-Sanatan forces. These youth will also be trained in self-defense, agriculture, handicrafts, Ayurveda, Yoga, and Vedic technologies -- truly embodying the spirit of "Dharma Raksha Se Rashtra Raksha" -- Protecting the Nation through the Protection of Dharma. Shankaracharya Peeth Inspiration Complex - Symbol of Sanatan Unity The Mahapeeth campus will feature four spiritual inspiration complexes named after the four ancient Shankaracharya Peeths -- Dwarka, Puri, Sringeri, and Jyotirmath. Each complex will depict the spiritual traditions, life journeys, and teachings of these Peeths and their revered Acharyas, representing the divine unity in the diversity of Sanatan Dharma. Integrated Center of Akharas, Sects, and Sanatan Traditions "Vishva Sanatan Mahapeeth" will include dedicated purpose-built campuses for all 13 traditional Akharas of India, as well as for Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, Arya Samaj, Ravidas, Kabir, Nath, and other Sanatan traditions. Each of these centers will showcase statues, teachings, and historical contributions of their Gurus -- allowing future generations to witness how the Sanatan heritage extends beyond India to all humanity. 108 Yagya Shalas, Saint Residences & Pilgrim Facilities The project includes 108 Yagya Shalas for continuous Vedic rituals and yajnas. There will be 108 saint cottages equipped with modern facilities for the residence of saints from India and abroad. Additionally, 1008 pilgrim and devotee accommodations are being built so that every pilgrim visiting can receive full hospitality and spiritual service along with darshan. Veda Temple, Veda Study Centre & "Sanatan Time Museum" At the heart of the Mahapeeth will be a Veda Temple and Veda Study & Research Centre, where Vedic scriptures will be studied, compiled, and translated. Alongside, an extraordinary "Sanatan Time Museum" will be created -- displaying, through modern technology, the journey of Sanatan civilization, culture, science, architecture, Ayurveda, and spirituality through the ages. This museum will stand as living evidence of India's eternal and timeless knowledge tradition before the world. Cow Protection, Natural Healing & Environmental Mission The Mahapeeth will also host a Desi Cow Protection & Research Center, along with a Natural Medicine & Naturopathy Centre, promoting traditional health systems and ecological balance. Grand Meditation Hall, Library & Dharm Sabha Arena The Mahapeeth will include a grand meditation hall, library, annakshetra (community kitchen), and a large Dharm Sabha auditorium. A majestic "108 Teerth Darshan Parikrama Path" is also being developed, enabling devotees to experience the sacred essence of India's major pilgrimage sites within a single complex. The Era of Sanatan Renaissance "Vishva Sanatan Mahapeeth" is not just a temple or ashram -- it is a centre for the renaissance of human civilization. Here, the eternal Vedic message shall once again echo -- "Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah" -- One who protects Dharma shall be protected by Dharma. This Mahapeeth will remain a living embodiment of knowledge, meditation, service, and national upliftment for generations to come. A Call for Public Participation Teerth Sewa Nyas appeals to all spiritual, cultured, and patriotic individuals from India and abroad to contribute and participate in this divine endeavor. Every devotee, student, entrepreneur, or householder can become a part of this Mahayajna. All donors' names will be permanently inscribed in the "Daata Deergah (Donor Hall)", and they will receive lifetime invitations to the Mahapeeth's programs. Foundation Ceremony (Shila Poojan): 21st November 2025, 9:00 AM onwardsVenue: Bhupatwala, Haridwar (Uttarakhand) This sacred occasion will witness the presence of saints, spiritual leaders, scholars, social reformers, and devotees from across the nation. It will not merely be a foundation ceremony, but a proclamation of the new "Era of Sanatan Renaissance." Contact & Support Teerth Sewa Nyas & Vishva Sanatan MahapeethHead Office: Teerthashram, Shivlok Colony, Near Bhagat Singh Chowk, Haridwar - 249401Registered Office: B-11, Alankar Palace, Near Shankar Ashram, Jwalapur, Haridwar Contact - +91 9520050038 | +91 9520050083 | +91 9520050068Email - info@teerthsewanyas.comWebsite - www.teerthsewanyas.org | www.sanatanmahapeeth.org (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.)
iMEQ Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], November 15: Krishival Foods Limited, one of India's fastest-growing FMCG companies, today announced its unaudited financial results for the quarter-and-half year ended September 30, 2025. Incorporated in 2014, Krishival Foods Limited has rapidly established itself as a leader in the premium nuts, dried fruits, and ice cream segments. The company operates through two dynamic and fast-expanding consumer brands: Krishival Nuts - A trusted household name offering a wide portfolio of high-quality dry fruits and nuts, including cashews, almonds, pistachios, figs, and innovative flavoured variants and products like Kaju Katli. Melt N Mellow - An emerging ice cream brand renowned for its distinct flavors, quality ingredients, and growing retail footprint across Western and Southern India. The company's performance for the first half of FY2025-26 underscores its continued commitment to innovation, product excellence, and market expansion. Strong Financial Performance - H1 FY 2025-26 Krishival Foods Limited reported robust financial results for the half year ended September 30, 2025, reflecting strong operational execution, expanding distribution, and sustained consumer demand across product categories. * Total Income: 120.71 crore -- up 60% YoY (75.45 crore in H1 FY 2024-25) * Net Profit (PAT): 10.20 crore -- up 23% YoY (8.29 crore in H1 FY 2024-25) This strong financial performance underscores Krishival's accelerated growth trajectory, driven by robust results across both dry fruits and nuts and ice cream business segments. The company's continued focus on premium product offerings, efficient supply chain management, and deeper retail penetration continues to create sustained value for its stakeholder. Segment-wise Performance 1. Nuts and Dried Fruits (Brand: Krishival Nuts) * Revenue: 86.94 crore -- up 19% YoY (73.23 crore in H1 FY 2024-25) * PBT before depreciation: 14.53 crore -- up 15% YoY (12.68 crore in H1 FY 2024-25) The company's core segment continued to deliver steady and sustainable growth, supported by its diverse product portfolio, premium market positioning, and expanding retail presence across key regions. 2. Ice Cream (Brand: Melt N Mellow)* Revenue: 29.24 crore -- up 37% YoY (21.26 crore in H1 FY 2024-25) * PBT before depreciation: 1.52 crore -- up 108% YoY (0.73 crore in H1 FY 2024-25) The ice cream segment showcased exceptional growth momentum, with a healthy rise in earnings driven by improved operational efficiency, better capacity utilisation, and growing brand visibility across Western and Southern India. Operational Highlights-Geographic Reach: * Krishival Nuts presence in 102+ Tier II and III cities through 10,000+ retail touch points. * Presence of 'Krishival Nuts' products in various premium modern trade super market chains like 'Nature's Basket', 'Bombay Gourmet Stores', 'Society Stores', 'Food Square' etc. * 25,000+ retail touch-points, 200+ distributors and 25+ Super Stockists for Melt N Mellow ice cream in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Goa, Telangana. -Online & Export Channels: * Strong e-commerce partnerships with platforms like Amazon, Flipkart and quick- commerce leaders such as Blinkit, Zepto. * Exports of 'Krishival Nuts' to Singapore with presence in over 300 retail touch- points. Major Differentiated Products Krishival Nuts* Product Portfolio: Over 45 SKUs across premium nuts, dry fruits, and flavored variants. * Integrated Value Chain: Complete end-to-end operations -- from raw nut grading and roasting to flavouring and packaging -- ensuring superior traceability, product standardization, and operational efficiency. * Global Sourcing Strength: Direct procurement from key regions across Asia, Africa, and the Americas helps mitigate price volatility and supply chain risks while maintaining consistent quality. Melt N Mellow- Product Portfolio: Over 148 SKUs, featuring a wide range of ice creams, novelties, and premium desserts. - Robust Cold Chain: An end-to-end cold chain infrastructure ensures product integrity and freshness from sourcing to delivery. - Innovation Focus: A dedicated R&D centre drives flavour innovation and new product - development, reinforcing the brand's strong market differentiation. Strategic Positioning & Outlook Krishival Foods Limited continues to strengthen its market position through a strong dual-brand strategy -- with 'Krishival Nuts' established as a premium leader in the dry fruits and nuts segment, and 'Melt N Mellow' catering to aspirational ice cream consumers in emerging urban and semi-urban markets. The company's focus on aspirational consumption and underpenetrated markets is delivering strong results, supported by expanding product portfolios, enhanced brand visibility, and strategic infrastructure investments. * The Nuts Division is developing its 5-acre land parcel in Halkarni MIDC to construct an integrated, state-of-the-art processing facility spanning over 2 lakh sq. ft., dedicated to nuts and allied products. * Additionally, the division has recently acquired a food processing unit situated on a 2- acre plot with 19,000 sq. ft. of built-up area, further strengthening its production capabilities. * The Ice Cream Division operates a modern, state-of-the-art production facility with an installed capacity of 1 lakh litres per day, which is expected to reach full utilization over the next three financial years. With robust growth across both legacy and newly acquired businesses, Krishival Foods is well- positioned to deliver sustainable scalability, margin expansion, and long-term profitability. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by iMEQ. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
PNN Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], November 15: Following the successful launch of its latest collection, Art Deco, on 7th November, Mashroo, India's leading modest fashion house, hosted an intimate Meet & Greet at Cafe Nur, Fort, to celebrate the collection's creative journey and the growing movement of modest fashion in India. Set against the art-inspired backdrop of Cafe Nur, the event brought together fashion voices, content creators, and women from diverse backgrounds to experience the world of Art Deco -- a collection that translates the grandeur of the 1920s design era into the language of modern modesty. "Art Deco was an era where design broke boundaries -- bold lines, geometric forms, and unapologetic elegance. We wanted to bring that same fearlessness into modest fashion," shares Shezeen Hyder, Creative Head at Mashroo. "Our vision has always been to take modest fashion to mainstream fashion -- to celebrate the woman who chooses her faith and fashion equally, with confidence and pride." The Art Deco collection features 32 pieces, including abayas, kaftans, and tailored modest formals inspired by the three-piece suit and 1920s silhouettes. Motifs drawn from arches, geometry, and Deco architecture are intricately hand-embroidered, reflecting Mashroo's hallmark of precision and luxury craftsmanship. Fabrics such as authentic Korean Nida and global luxury blends bring an elevated tactile story to every piece. That elevates the wardrobe with grace. The color story moves through electric blue, brick orange, maroon, white, and black, highlighted with lacework reminiscent of the golden age of design. The event featured more than 20 of India's most prominent Muslim social influencers, who joined Shezeen Hyder in discussing the evolution of modest fashion and its cultural representation in India today. The gathering emphasised sisterhood, empowerment, and the redefinition of modest dressing as an act of strength, not suppression. The event celebrated the intricacies of belief as well as shed light on the future of modest fashion. "For us, modesty isn't limitation -- it's liberation," says Hyder. "We design for women who lead with conviction, creativity, and confidence." With Art Deco, Mashroo continues its journey of crafting stories where heritage meets modernity -- where every abaya and kaftan becomes a symbol of elegance, purpose, and pride. The Art Deco Collection is available to explore at Mashroo stores in Bangalore and Hyderabad, and online at www.mashroostore.com Founded in India, Mashroo is a pioneering modest fashion brand redefining contemporary Islamic wear through luxury craftsmanship, cultural storytelling, and modern silhouettes. With everything done in-house -- from design to tailoring -- Mashroo continues to lead the movement of Taking Modest Fashion to Mainstream Fashion. (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.)
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal held a bilateral meeting on Saturday with Minister of Ecological Mining Development of Venezuela, Hector Silva, on the sidelines of the 30th CII Partnership Summit held in Visakhapatnam. During the meeting, the Venezuelan side expressed interest in expanding economic engagement with India beyond the oil sector, including cooperation in critical minerals and attracting Indian investment, said a statement from India's Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Minister Goyal emphasized the need to reactivate the India-Venezuela Joint Committee Mechanism, whose last meeting was held a decade ago. He noted that ONGC's ongoing operations in Venezuela provide scope for deeper collaboration in mining and exploration. He suggested that Venezuela may consider accepting the Indian Pharmacopeia to facilitate pharmaceutical trade and highlighted opportunities to enhance cooperation in the automobile sector. He added that India would engage with businesses exploring investment prospects in Venezuela. During the session on "Innovation Amidst Global Shifts: Opportunities in Advanced Materials, Semiconductors and Critical Minerals" at the 30th edition of the CII Partnership Summit, Silva said, "Venezuela is widely known as an oil-producing nation, but the world is yet to recognise the true depth of our mining potential." He highlighted Venezuela's vast endowment of strategic minerals and invited responsible international partnerships to develop domestic exploration, processing and value-addition. "Our country possesses 340 million tonnes of nickel, 1.6 billion tonnes of iron ore, 340 million tonnes of bauxite, and over a billion tonnes of coal," he said, adding that certified gold reserves of 2,700 tonnes -- with an additional nearly 5,000 tonnes awaiting certification, underscore Venezuela's scale of opportunity. He highlighted Government's transformation agenda that places minerals at the centre of economic diversification and appealed for partners who bring technology, expertise and long-term commitment. The Minister further added that, "With the right collaborations, Venezuela has the potential to become a major global supplier of critical minerals", while also inviting businesses to engage in responsible investment and local value creation. India and Venezuela have always enjoyed cordial relations. There is a similarity of views on major international, political and economic issues. Besides actively promoting bilateral relations, the two countries cooperate in multilateral forums. The main items of India's exports are mineral fuels and oils and products of their distillation; bituminous substances, pharmaceutical products, cotton, nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery and mechanical appliances, electrical machinery and equipment; sound recorders and reproducers, television image and sound recorders and reproducers, articles of apparel and clothing accessories and miscellaneous chemical products, India-Venezuela bilateral brief available on MEA website said. On the sidelines of the CII Partnership Summit 2025 in Visakhapatnam, Minister Goyal met Gevorg Papoyan, Minister of Economy, Armenia. They explored new avenues for economic cooperation and strategic partnership through strengthening our bilateral trade ties. Goyal also had an insightful meeting with Rui Miguens de Oliveira, Minister of Industry and Commerce, Angola. They discussed enhancing bilateral trade & investment ties and futher exploring new opportunities for collaboration in key sectors to strengthen the bilateral partnership. Minister Goyal also held discussions with John Michael Tzoun Sao Yeung Sik Yuen, Minister of Commerce and Consumer Protection, Mauritius. They discussed ways to further boost our bilateral ties by exploring collaboration opportunities in newer avenues including fisheries, non-renewable energy and consumer products among others. (ANI)
Nara Lokesh, Minister for Human Resources Development; IT Electronics and Communication, Andhra Pradesh, has asserted that people must either embrace AI or risk being replaced by it. He made this remark during the session titled "AI and the Future of Jobs: Turning Disruption into Opportunity" at the 30th Partnership Summit being held in Visakhapatnam. The Andhra Pradesh Minister emphasised that on the employment front, the need of the hour is to reskill, redefine and reimagine. He mentioned that the state government is in the process of releasing a framework in which conversational AI is used to assess skill levels of the workforce, across all levels, from carpenters to highly skilled AI engineers for the purpose of enhancing skills. The Minister also urged that creativity should not be outsourced to AI. Further, he stated that AI needs to be implemented to reimagine and bridge of economic and social disparities. Debjani Ghosh, Distinguished Fellow, NITI Aayog and Chief Architect, NITI Frontier Tech Hub, in a virtual address, replied to the fundamental question of whether AI is going to take away jobs or create it. "Job disruption is only half the story, and jobs of repetitive nature, and areas like software, data entry are likely to be replaced", she noted. However, a new universe of new jobs will be created, including highly specialised jobs like AI engineers, AI architects, etc. Work will change, workers will change and the workforce pyramid will change -- hyper-specialised jobs are the future with deeply specialised jobs on the frontier, she opined. Presenting a global perspective, Joe Depa, Global Chief Innovation Officer, Ernst & Young, USA said that the world needs India to be successful on the AI front. He said that India, as prospective AI powerhouse is 'ripe', with young workforce, digital infrastructure and AI usage base. Prof Soumitra Dutta, President, Portulans Institute and Former Dean, University of Oxford and Cornell, while sharing perspective of the academia, underlined the caution that AI could pose for human dignity. He stated that humans primarily interpret data, create new patterns, and form relationships, all of which are under threat or will be under threat in the future. Machine efficiency already, in many cases, equals that of humans, and bots are being used for counselling. He urged the government and the Industry to strike a balance between humans and machines. He cautioned that there is threat to human dignity and risk large scale unemployment lurking in the future. Sharon Buteau, Executive Director, LEAD, Krea University stated that AI is beneficial for gender parity and empowers women, giving them more visibility, opportunities and access to finance. Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director, World Economic Forum stated "we will lose roughly 92 million jobs in the next 5 years. The good news is that there is a possibility to create 170 million new jobs. However, it will need conscious action, reskilling, and partnerships between Governments, corporations and academia." The session also saw the release of the CII-EY report on "AI: Is India ready for Agentic AI?" Rajiv Memani, President, CII, and Chairman and CEO, EY India, moderated the session and stated that AI is transforming the employment landscape; however, he viewed the scene as encouraging. AI can be viewed as a powerful enabler, and stakeholders should reap the 'AI dividend'. The 30th Partnership Summit 2025 in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh saw the release of the CII-CESD reports on 'Resilience Framework for Eluru and West Godavari District' and 'Building Climate Resilience for Indian Industry'. A session highlighted climate risks for Indian businesses, stressing impacts on agriculture, supply chains, and communities. The industry leaders emphasized innovation, ESG, sustainable practices, and accessible insurance, with collaborative action as key to building a resilient and sustainable India. (ANI)
In a joint post, the couple announced the news, celebrating their daughter's arrival on their fourth wedding anniversary, which was on November 15.

"We are over the moon. God has blessed us with a baby girl. Blessed parents - Patralekhaa and Rajkummar," the note read. In the caption, they described their daughter as God's "greatest blessing," expressing joy at entering a new chapter of their lives.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DRD2VZsCENa/

As soon as they shared the news, friends and fans flooded the comment section with congratulatory messages. Actor Neha Dhupia wrote, "Congratulations, you guys. Welcome to the best hood ... parenthood."

Sophie Choudry also extended her love and blessings, writing, "Huge congratulations, you guys!! Much love to you and your princess! God bless." Friends, fans and well-wishers flooded the post with congratulatory messages.

Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa had announced their pregnancy earlier in July through an adorable Instagram post featuring a graphic illustration with a cradle at the centre and a message that read, "Baby on the way."

The post garnered widespread love from fans, who were eagerly awaiting updates from the couple.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DL4rGElJzo3/

The couple, who tied the knot on November 15, 2021, in an intimate ceremony in Chandigarh, first worked together in the 2014 film Citylights, which marked Patralekhaa's Bollywood debut.

On the work front, Rajkummar recently completed the shooting for his upcoming film, 'Nikam'.

Sharing a handwritten note on Instagram, the actor expressed deep gratitude and admiration for his portrayal of public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam, calling it "a privilege" to watch him build the character with such calm, honesty and grace.

Nikam is a biopic on India's celebrated public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam. More details regarding the film have not been disclosed yet.

Meanwhile, RajKummar is also busy working as a producer. A few months ago, he and his wife Patralekhaa launched their own production house, KAMPA Film. The name KAMPA holds personal significance, as it combines the initials of their mothers' names, paying tribute to them. (ANI)
Actor Rana Daggubati calls for using the right ways to communicate the "right message" about gaming and gaming apps amid the ongoing investigation against him in connection with an illegal betting case. While leaving the Special Investigation Team (SIT) office after interrogation in connection with an illegal betting app case, Rana Daggubati said, "We are going to use the right ways to communicate the right message about gaming and gaming apps. The legalities will be completed later. But I am here to do whatever is needed to help spread the message." Earlier this year, the Telangana police filed a First Information Report (FIR) against 25 celebrities and influencers, including popular figures like Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, and Manchu Lakshmi, for allegedly promoting illegal betting and gambling apps through their social media platforms. The FIR was filed at the Miyapur Police Station in Hyderabad following a petition by 32-year-old businessman PM Phanindra Sarma. Earlier this year, Vijay Deverakonda's team issued a statement saying that the actor entered into a contract with the company as a brand ambassador for skill-based games and endorsed the company in regions and territories where online skill-based games were legally permitted. A part of the statement read, "This is to inform the public and all concerned parties that Vijay Deverakonda has officially entered into a contract with a company solely for the limited purpose of serving as a brand ambassador for skill-based games. His endorsement was strictly confined to regions and territories where online skill-based games are legally permitted." Prakash Raj also clarified in a video posted on his X handle that he had done an advertisement for a gaming app, but later stopped as it didn't feel right to him. "In 2016, people approached me for a gaming app, and I did do it. But within a few months, my conscience, maybe it was legal but I thought that it was not right. But I couldn't do anything, so I let it go for a year's contract. Immediately when they wanted to renew, I said no. My conscience doesn't accept that..," a part of his tweet read. Meanwhile, the actor Rana Daggubati's Spirit Media has announced a Hindi adaptation of Booker winner Aravind Adiga's acclaimed novel 'Last Man in Tower', starring Manoj Bajpayee. Ben Rekhi has come on board to direct the film. (ANI)
Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoor paid a heartfelt tribute to the legendary star Kamini Kaushal, who passed away on November 14, remembering her as a "wonderful soul" and praising her professionalism and warmth. Veteran actress Kaushal left an indelible mark on Indian cinema, with a career spanning over seven decades. Shahid, who shared screen space with Kaushal in the 2019 film 'Kabir Singh', recalled his experience working with her as both a privilege and a pleasure. Speaking to ANI, he said, "She was such a wonderful soul and working with her was just a pleasure and a privilege." Reflecting on her legacy, he added, "She brought a lot of warmth and a lot of dignity to 'Kabir Singh' and she will always be remembered for being a fantastic artist. When I worked with her, she was so sharp and she was so professional and she was so kind and warm. May her soul rest in peace." Kamini Kaushal's final rites were performed on Saturday, with an intimate gathering of close family members in attendance. Prior to that, Kamini Kaushal's mortal remains were brought to the crematorium from her residence in Mumbai. She was one of the leading actresses of the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s era of Indian cinema, where she shared the screen with superstars like Ashok Kumar, Raj Kapoor, Dev Anand, Dilip Kumar, and legends like Raaj Kumar and Dharmendra, among many others. Meanwhile, Shahid and Tamannaah Bhatia turned showstopper for Futureverse of Fashion by Falguni Shane Peacock. Sharing his experience of walking the ramp, he said, "This is the second time I'm walking for Falguni and Shane and I think their aesthetic is very cool, very edgy. This is a great campaign for Blenders Pride and it's always fun working with them. They are very, very good at what they do. They know exactly what they're doing, their cuts, their fits, their styling is always on point." The ace star is in the capital not only for the event, but he is also busy shooting for his film 'Cocktail 2' along with Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna. Sharing his experience, he said, "Delhi is like home" and it's always fun to be here. "We are shooting for my movie 'Cocktail 2'. So there's me, Rashmika and Kriti, we're shooting here. So it's great to be here. We're going to be here for another few days. We've been here for almost five days now. And fortunately, I'm doing this event also on the same night." "Delhi is like home. I was born here. So whenever I come here.. I have a lot of memories. Always great fun coming to Delhi." On being asked whether he enjoys Delhi food, he said, laughing, "When I don't have to walk the ramp, I try the food. It is an amazing, amazing experience." Shahid will also be seen next in 'O'Romeo'. (ANI)
Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge has called the Bihar Assembly Election result "extremely surprising", adding that the verdict is "not acceptable." Coming on the NDA landslide victory in the Bihar Election 2025, Kharge said to the media, "It is extremely surprising and is not something we had expected. Since the verdict is out, let us see what happened and what the reasons are for it." "Definitely unexpected and extremely surprising. I am not ready to accept this mandate. There is always winning and losing, but this kind of verdict is not acceptable. We have done our ground reality check before giving tickets. This entire thing is not the people's mandate," he said. The comment came after the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) "tsunami" swept off the opposition Mahagathbandhan in Bihar with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party with 89 seats and the Janata-Dal (United) finishing a close second with 85, and the other allies of the ruling coalition also registering high strike rates. The parties of the Mahagathbandhan, including the RJD and Congress, suffered significant setbacks, and Jan Suraaj, which had hoped for an impressive debut after its founder, Prashant Kishor, conducted an extensive campaign, failed to open its account. The ruling NDA got 202 seats, a three-fourths majority in the 243-member House. This is the second time the NDA has crossed the 200-mark in the assembly polls. In the 2010 polls, it had won 206 seats. In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats. In Mahagathbandhan, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won 25 seats, Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) - CPI(ML)(L) - two, Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) - one and Communist Party of India (Marxist) - CPI(M) one seat. All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) won five seats, and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) got one seat. (ANI)
An Intellectuals' Meet on the theme "Emergence of Bharat in Tariff War" was successfully organised today at the Press Club, Agartala. The event brought together experts, academicians, professionals, and members of civil society for an enriching discussion on India's economic positioning in the evolving global tariff environment. The program was attended by retired Justice Arindam Lodh, Chairperson of the Tripura Human Rights Commission and former Judge of the High Court of Tripura, who attended as the Chief Guest. In his address, he emphasised the importance of strategic tariff policies for safeguarding national interests, strengthening domestic industries, and enhancing India's role in global economic affairs. Prof. Ashwani Mahajan, an Indian economist and Professor from Delhi University, delivered the keynote lecture as the Guest Speaker. He elaborated on the complexities of the current global tariff scenario. He spoke on how Bharat can turn this situation into an opportunity to build a more resilient and self-reliant economy. Mahajan highlighted India's development and transformation over the past few years and remarked that if the nation stands firm in the present economic conditions, it will significantly contribute to achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. He emphasised the importance of informed policymaking, reducing import dependency, and promoting the growth of homegrown industries. Supporting his views, Prof. Shyamal Das, Vice-Chancellor (In-Charge) of Tripura University, addressed the gathering and stated that this is a crucial moment for Bharat to reinforce self-dependence. He urged everyone to view global challenges as opportunities and called for strengthening domestic capabilities and fostering innovation-driven growth. Prof. Deepak Sharma, Registrar of Tripura University, was also present at the event. He appreciated the relevance of such discussions in shaping collective understanding on matters of national economic importance. The meeting saw active participation from a diverse group of attendees, including educators, bankers, doctors, representatives of NGOs, members of the merchant association, and other professionals. Participants shared thoughtful perspectives on how India can effectively respond to the global tariff environment and further consolidate its path toward economic independence. (ANI)
The newly formed Jan Suraaj Party, founded by election strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishor, faced a major setback in the 2025 Bihar Assembly Election, failing to secure a single seat despite contesting in almost all 243 constituencies. Kishor had indicated that he might contest from Raghopur or Kargahar, but ultimately decided against fighting the elections. "The members of the party have decided that I should focus on working for the victory of the other candidates of the party, so I am not contesting the elections," Kishor told ANI when asked about his decision. Prashant Kishor officially launched the Jan Suraaj Party in Patna on October 2, 2024, stating that the party had been active since 2022. At the time, Kishor had vowed that if elected to power, he would immediately lift the liquor ban in Bihar and use the tax revenue to upgrade the education system. Throughout his campaign, Kishor emphasised employment, infrastructure, law and order in Bihar and yet failed to win a single seat. Despite the high-profile launch and campaign promises, the debutant party suffered poor results across constituencies. In Tarapur, its candidate Santosh Kumar managed only 3,898 votes. In Alinagar, the Jan Suraaj candidate finished fourth with 2,275 votes, falling behind independent candidate Saifuddin Ahmed, who secured 2,803 votes. Bharatiya Janata Party candidate Maithili Thakur (25) won the Alinagar seat by a margin of 11,730 votes, becoming the youngest MLA in Bihar. Meanwhile, Jan Suraaj Party's Priyadarshi Piyush finished third in his constituency with 19,365 votes. Jailed Janata Dal (United) leader Anant Singh secured a victory from Mokama assembly constituency in Bihar's Patna district by a margin of 28,206 votes. The party's campaign had attracted notable figures, including Dr. Jagriti, granddaughter of former Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur, Anand Mishra, an independent candidate from Buxar in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, and Professor Rambali Singh Chandravanshi, who joined the party, impressed by Kishor's focus on development in the state. Despite efforts, high-profile launch and campaign promises, the party's debut in Bihar's political landscape ended in disappointment. The National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) "tsunami" swept away the opposition Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party with 89 seats, and the Janata Dal (United) finishing a close second with 85. The other allies of the ruling coalition also registered high strike rates. The parties of the Mahagathbandhan, including the RJD and Congress, suffered significant setbacks, and Jan Suraaj, which had hoped for an impressive debut after its founder, Prashant Kishor, conducted an extensive campaign, failed to open its account. The ruling NDA got 202 seats, a three-fourths majority in the 243-member House. This is the second time NDA has crossed the 200 mark in the assembly polls. In the 2010 polls, it had won 206 seats. In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats. In Mahagathbandhan, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won 25 seats, Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) - CPI(ML)(L) - two, Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) - one and Communist Party of India (Marxist) - CPI(M) one seat. All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) won five seats, and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) got one seat. (ANI)
Union Minister Piyush Goyal said that two rounds of discussion have already been held, and all possibilities regarding the ongoing engagements with Canada were on the table. Speaking to ANI, Goyal said, "All possibilities are on the table. We have now had two rounds of discussions. We met in Delhi for the high-level ministerial meeting. We met briefly (later) to also discuss the way forward to strengthen our bilateral cooperation and strategic partnership." He further stated that the entire globe was represented at the CII Partnership Summit 2025 held in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam, with ministers from Europe, Africa, North America, and Latin America being represented. "I'm grateful to many ministers from across the world who joined us today. Almost every continent was represented. We had ministers from North America and Latin America. We had ministers from Europe and Africa. We had a minister from Southeast Asia. So effectively, the entire globe was represented at this partnership summit, demonstrating India as a friend of humanity. The world is one family, is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mantra, which we have inherited from generations and centuries and are proud of, and we are taking it forward in our international engagements," Goyal added. India and Canada reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral economic cooperation as Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Canada's Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Maninder Sidhu convened the 7th Ministerial Dialogue on Trade and Investment (MDTI) in New Delhi. Sidhu's visit to India from November 11 to 14 followed directions from the Prime Ministers of both countries to enhance collaboration, as discussed during their meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada. The dialogue also built on the October 13 joint statement by the Foreign Ministers, which underscored trade as the cornerstone of India-Canada economic ties. Both ministers expressed satisfaction with the strong growth in bilateral trade, which reached USD 23.66 billion in 2024, including USD 8.98 billion in merchandise trade, reflecting a 10 per cent increase compared to the previous year. They also noted the steady rise in two-way investments, highlighted by significant Canadian institutional investments in India and a growing footprint of Indian firms in Canada, supporting thousands of jobs across both economies. (ANI)
Delhi woke up to dense smog on Saturday morning as the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 386 at 8 am, falling under the 'very poor' category, according to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). India Gate was barely visible this morning, shrouded by a thick layer of smog, as the air quality in the national capital remained hazardous. The toxic air persisted a day after Delhi recorded an AQI of 397, also in the 'very poor' range. According to CPCB readings, several areas in the city witnessed alarming pollution levels. Ashok Vihar reported an AQI of 415, Bawana 441, Burari Crossing 383, CRRI Mathura Road 365, Chandni Chowk 419, Dwarka Sector-8 393, ITO 418, Jahangirpuri 422, JLN Stadium 389, Mundka 426, Najafgarh 385, Narela 418, Patparganj 399, Punjabi Bagh 405, RK Puram 406, Rohini 423, Siri Fort 495, Sonia Vihar 410, Vivek Vihar 418 and Wazirpur 447. Most of these locations fell under the 'very poor' or 'severe' categories. As per CPCB classification, an AQI between 0-50 is considered 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor', and 401-500 'severe'. With air quality in the national capital deteriorating sharply, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has already implemented Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the National Capital Region. The measures aim to control emissions through stricter restrictions on construction, vehicular movement and industrial operations. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court directed the governments of Punjab and Haryana to file a status report on the measures taken to curb stubble burning, which contributes to the air pollution crisis in the Delhi-NCR region. A bench of Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran ordered, "We direct the state of Punjab and Haryana to file a report on what steps are being taken to curb stubble burning." An advocate in the case told the bench that while the Commission for Air Quality Management (CQAM) has implemented the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) GRAP-III, the situation demanded the implementation of GRAP-IV instead. Under GRAP-III, curbs include a ban on most non-essential construction activities, restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers, suspension of classes for students up to Class 5 with a shift to hybrid or online learning, curbs on industrial operations dependent on non-clean fuel, and a ban on non-emergency diesel generator sets. The plan also restricts industrial activity at non-clean fuel facilities and bans non-emergency diesel generator sets. (ANI)
Taking it on X, he wrote, "Let their steps advance--this is our thought, this is our hope, for in the strong future of children lies hidden the development of India. Heartfelt wishes on Children's Day!"

In a video accompanying the post, Dy CM Sanghavi is surrounded by a group of children. He interacted with the school students and distributed sweets through a fun game.

Meanwhile, Children's Day is celebrated on November 14 every year as a mark of respect to the first Prime Minister of Independent India. Jawaharlal Nehru was fondly called 'Chacha Nehru' and was known for emphasising the importance of giving love and affection to children.

After the death of Nehru, it was unanimously decided to celebrate his birthday as 'Bal Diwas' or Children's Day in India. Nehru was born on November 14, 1889, in Allahabad, now known as Prayagraj, in Uttar Pradesh. He passed away on May 27, 1964.

He became the first Prime Minister on August 15, 1947, following an active role in the country's freedom struggle.

On this day, various activities are organised for students in schools nationwide, including games and competitions, while government bodies pay tribute to the late prime minister and hold commemorative events on this day.

In 1954, the United Nations declared November 20 as Universal Children's Day. Before 1956, India also used to celebrate Children's Day on that day. After the death of Prime Minister Nehru in 1964, a resolution was passed in the Parliament unanimously declaring the day of Nehru's birth anniversary as National Children's Day. (ANI)
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Saturday congratulated Janata Dal (United) leader Nitish Kumar on securing a decisive victory in the Bihar Assembly elections, while also commending RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav for what he described as a "tireless and spirited campaign." In a message posted on X, the Chief Minister said he "warmly congratulated veteran leader Thiru. Nitish Kumar" and wished him well in meeting the aspirations of the people of Bihar. He also appreciated "young leader Thiru. Tejashwi Yadav" for his energetic outreach during the election campaign, adding that both leaders played significant roles in shaping the political contest in the state. Reflecting on the broader implications of the electoral verdict, Stalin said election outcomes were shaped by multiple factors such as welfare delivery, social and ideological coalitions, clear political messaging and meticulous management "until the last vote is polled." He noted that the leaders of the INDIA bloc were "seasoned politicians" who were fully capable of interpreting the message delivered by the electorate and recalibrating strategies to confront emerging political challenges. However, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister strongly criticised the Election Commission of India (ECI), asserting that the results did not absolve the constitutional body of its "misdeeds and reckless actions." He said the credibility of the institution had suffered in recent times, claiming that "the reputation of the ECI is at its lowest point." Stalin emphasised that India's democratic framework depended on the strength and impartiality of its institutions. "The citizens of this country deserve a stronger and more neutral Election Commission," he said, arguing that its conduct should inspire complete confidence "even among those who do not win." While ruling parties at the Centre have consistently dismissed similar allegations from opposition parties, maintaining that the Election Commission functions independently, Stalin's remarks add to the ongoing debate over institutional trust and transparency during elections. Political analysts believe the DMK chief's comments highlight growing opposition scrutiny of electoral mechanisms, even as coalition partners within the INDIA bloc assess the outcome in Bihar and chart their course ahead of upcoming state elections. The NDA's 'tsunami' swept away the opposition Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party with 89 seats, and the Janata Dal (United) finishing a close second with 85. The other allies of the ruling coalition also registered high strike rates. The parties of the Mahagathbandhan, including the RJD and Congress, suffered significant setbacks, and Jan Suraaj, which had hoped for an impressive debut after its founder, Prashant Kishor, conducted an extensive campaign, failed to open its account. The ruling NDA got 202 seats, a three-fourths majority in the 243-member House. This is the second time the NDA has crossed the 200-mark in the assembly polls. In the 2010 polls, it had won 206 seats. In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats. In Mahagathbandhan, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won 25 seats, Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) - CPI(ML)(L) - two, Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) - one and Communist Party of India (Marxist) - CPI(M) one seat. All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) won five seats, and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) got one seat. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to veteran tribal leader Birsa Munda on his 150th birth anniversary. The Prime Minister remembered the veteran tribal leader for his unparalleled contribution to the country's freedom movement. He said that Munda's struggle and sacrifices against the injustice of foreign rule will continue to inspire every generation in the country. He also extended greetings on the occasion of the Jharkhand Statehood Day, which also coincides with the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda. PM Modi described the state as a land enriched with tribal culture and prayed for the region's progress and prosperity. "On this sacred occasion of Tribal Pride Day, the entire nation is reverently remembering the unparalleled contribution of the great freedom fighter of the country, Lord Birsa Munda Ji, in protecting the pride of the motherland. Their struggle and sacrifice against the injustice of foreign rule will continue to inspire every generation. Hundredfold salutations to the great freedom fighter of the country, Bhagwan Birsa Munda Ji, on his 150th birth anniversary," Prime Minister Modi wrote on 'X'. "Heartfelt greetings to all the residents of the glorious state of Jharkhand, enriched with tribal culture, on the occasion of the state's foundation day. The history of this land of Lord Birsa Munda is filled with tales of courage, struggle, and self-respect. Today, on this special occasion, I extend my wishes for the progress and prosperity of the state along with all my family members in the state," he added. Jharkhand was carved out of Bihar on November 15, 2000, which happens to be the birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda. Birsa Munda, who belonged to the Munda tribe, was born on November 15 in 1875. During British rule in the late 19th century, he spearheaded an Indian tribal religious Millenarian movement across the tribal belt of modern-day Bihar and Jharkhand. His birth anniversary is celebrated as Birsa Munda Jayanti in the country and coincides with the Jharkhand Foundation Day. Meanwhile, the Union Government is celebrating the Jan Jatiya Gaurav Varsh across India to honour the valour and invaluable contribution of tribal heroes of the country. On November 15, the Central Government will mark the 150th birth anniversary of Dharti Aaba Bhagwan Birsa Munda with a national-level celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas in Gujarat's Narmada district, to be presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (ANI)
Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday expressed deep grief over the late-night explosion at a police station in Srinagar, calling the incident "extremely tragic and worrying." Several police personnel were reported killed, while others sustained injuries in the blast, which triggered fresh concerns over internal security. In a post shared on X, Kejriwal said, "The news of the bomb blast at a police station in Srinagar late at night is extremely saddening and alarming. Several brave police personnel have been martyred, and many are injured. May the Almighty give strength to the families of the martyrs to bear this unbearable sorrow and grant a speedy recovery to the injured. My condolences are with the families of the victims." He said the country was still recovering from the shock of the recent blast in Delhi when another explosion shook the nation. "The echo of the Delhi blast had not even subsided, and once again the country has been shaken by an explosion," he said. Raising pointed questions over the handling of security, Kejriwal criticised the Centre and its agencies, seeking accountability from the Union Home Ministry. "It is important to ask the government what exactly is happening in the country? What are the government, security agencies, intelligence systems, and the Home Minister doing?" he asked. He alleged that such incidents pointed to serious lapses in preparedness and coordination. "How and why has such a big compromise with national security been allowed to happen?" he said, demanding that the Centre present a clear explanation to the public. Kejriwal added that maintaining internal security was a fundamental duty of the government and that repeated incidents of violence eroded public confidence. "The country wants answers," he said. Meanwhile, at least nine people have died and several others were injured after a deadly blast occurred near the premises of Nowgam police station in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday night, police said. Security has been tightened across sensitive zones, and additional teams have been deployed as precautionary measures. Soon after the explosion, Inspector General (IG) of the CRPF Pawan Kumar Sharma rushed to the site to oversee relief operations and assess the security measures. Notably, the threads of the November 10 Delhi blast are linked to objectionable posters in the Nowgam area of Srinagar, for which an FIR was registered on October 19, sources have said, noting security forces took decisive action to bust an inter-state Jaish-e-Mohammed module linked to the terror plot. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area and cooperate with security forces as rescue and inquiry operations continue. (ANI)
Senior Congress leader and former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Saturday morning offered heartfelt condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones in the ghastly Nowgam Police Station blast. The blast in Srinagar's Nowgam police station claimed at least nine lives and left several injured. Gehlot said that the blast in Jammu and Kashmir after the Delhi blast was a matter of "grave concern". "The news of the deaths of several people in the blast at the Nowgam police station in Jammu and Kashmir is extremely heartbreaking. After Delhi, the occurrence of a blast in Jammu and Kashmir now is a matter of great concern," Gehlot posted on X. "I extend my deepest condolences to the grieving families. I pray to God for the swift recovery of the injured," he added. At least nine people have died and several others were injured after a deadly blast occurred near the premises of Nowgam police station in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday night, police said. Soon after the explosion, Inspector General (IG) of the CRPF Pawan Kumar Sharma rushed to the site to oversee relief operations and assess the security measures. Further, security personnel cordoned off the area around the police station to ensure safety, while officials remain on the spot to implement all precautionary protocols. Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat also visited the site and left after assessing the situation. Investigations into the cause of the explosion are currently underway. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area and cooperate with security forces as rescue and inquiry operations continue. A blast occurred near the premises of Nowgam police station in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday night. Security personnel are present at the scene, and sniffer dogs have been deployed to assist with the investigation. The Deputy Commissioner of Srinagar, Akshay Labroo, visited the hospital to meet the victims injured in the blast. Notably, the threads of the November 10 Delhi blast are linked to objectionable posters in the Nowgam area of Srinagar, for which an FIR was registered on October 19, sources have said, noting security forces took strong action to bust an inter-state Jaish-e-Mohammed module linked to the terror plot. During the investigation of this case, two arrests were made in Shopian and Ganderbal between October 20 and 27. On November 5, a medical practitioner, Dr Adil, was apprehended from Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh, sources said. They said two days later, an AK-56 rifle and other ammunition were seized in an Anantnag Hospital, and more guns, pistols, and explosives were subsequently recovered from a place in Faridabad. During interrogation, the accused revealed the names of other persons involved in this module. Subsequently, Dr Muzammil, a doctor from Al Falah Medical College in Faridabad, was arrested, the sources said. On the basis of these leads, more arrests were made and a large cache of weapons and explosives was seized. On November 9, a person named Madrasi, a resident of Dhauj, Faridabad, was arrested from his house. The next day, a massive consignment of explosives, weighing 2,563 kilograms, was recovered from the house of Hafeez Mohammad Ishtiaq, a resident of Mewat and an Imam at Al Falah Mosque in Faridabad's Dhera Colony. In subsequent raids, 358 kilograms of additional explosive material, detonators, and timers were seized, sources said, adding that approximately 3,000 kilograms of explosives and bomb-making equipment stored by this module were seized. During these operations, Umar, also part of the module and working as a medical practitioner at Al Falah Medical College, changed his location as he was under constant pressure from the security forces, the sources said. According to CCTV footage, the car in which the Red Fort explosion occurred was being driven by Umar, a member of this module. The explosion was caused by the same type of material stockpiled in Faridabad, from where nearly 3,000 kilograms of explosives were seized, the sources said. They said whether the blast was pre-planned or accidental will be determined in further investigation. Security agencies and the intelligence network successfully "dismantled this Faridabad module", recovered a large quantity of explosive material and prevented a major conspiracy aimed at causing large-scale damage in the country. The sources said Umar fled as he panicked by the successful crackdown of security forces and his anxiety and desperation likely led to the Red Fort explosion. Whether it was deliberate or accidental will emerge in investigations, but it is certain that the blast was an integral part of the same chain of events during which a major terrorist module was exposed and a huge quantity of explosives seized, they said. As soon as news of the explosion came on Tuesday, Delhi Police and other security agencies rushed to the site. Home Minister Amit Shah immediately directed NSG, NIA, and forensic teams to reach the location. The injured were promptly taken to the nearest hospital and the ownership of the vehicle used in the blast was confirmed. Essential DNA, explosive, and other samples have been collected from the site and sent for forensic examination. The investigation has been handed over to the National Investigation Agency. (ANI)
Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan on Saturday, along with his party delegation, met with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar at his residence in Patna. Paswan extended his wishes to CM Nitish Kumar on the National Democratic Alliance's resounding success in the Bihar assembly elections. "I met the CM, congratulated him and extended him best wishes. NDA registered a historic victory under the leadership of Nitish Kumar. So, a delegation of LJP(RV) met him and congratulated him," Chirag Paswan told reporters after meeting CM Nitish Kumar. The Union Minister expressed happiness, stating that CM Nitish Kumar appreciated the role of every alliance partner in the NDA, hitting out at the opposition for promoting "misleading" people by setting up a false narrative between JD(U) and LJP (RV). "I am delighted that the CM appreciated the role of every alliance partner in the NDA. He supported the LJP(RV) candidate when he went to vote. In Alauli, where I vote, I supported the JD(U) candidate. This shows that those were misleading regarding JD(U) and LJP(RV) and were just setting a false narrative," Paswan added. The NDA registered a historic landslide victory in the 2025 Bihar Elections, winning 202 of the 243 seats in the state; meanwhile, the Mahagathbandhan could only secure 35 seats. NDA secured a three-fourths majority in the 243-member House. This is the second time the NDA has crossed the 200 mark in the assembly polls. In the 2010 polls, it had won 206 seats. In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats. The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won 25 seats, Indian National Congress 6, Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) - CPI(ML)(L) - two, Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) - one, and Communist Party of India (Marxist) - CPI(M) - one seat. All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) won five seats, and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) got one seat. The Bihar assembly elections were conducted across two phases on November 6 and 11, respectively. Bihar recorded a historic 67.13% voter turnout, the highest since 1951, with women voters outpacing men (71.6% vs 62.8%). Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the NDA's sweeping victory in Bihar has opened the path for the BJP in next year's assembly elections. He said the party will end "jungle raj" in West Bengal. Addressing a victory function at the party's headquarters here, PM Modi took several jibes at Congress and RJD following the results of the Bihar polls in which the two parties were decimated. The PM referred to some states and union territories where the BJP has never formed a government of its own and said the massive victory in Bihar has infused party workers in Kerala, Puducherry and West Bengal with new energy. (ANI)
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, arrived at Jodhpur Airport on Saturday and spoke about the Bihar Assembly elections 2025, highlighting that the public will no longer tolerate "baseless claims, fabricated narratives, and allegations of vote theft." He also addressed recent national security issues. Shekhawat stated that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its NDA alliance partners contested the elections with unity and collective strength, securing massive public support. He highlighted that the central issue in the Bihar elections was "Jungle Raj vs Development," adding that the people had given a clear mandate in favour of development, signalling that the country now prefers development-focused politics. The minister emphasised, "The public will no longer accept baseless claims, fabricated narratives, and allegations of vote theft." The minister added that this time, the electorate gave a stronger response to negative politics by voting in higher-than-average numbers, resulting in a decisive majority for the NDA alliance. He noted that all alliance partners, including the BJP, JD(U), LJP, and Jitan Ram Manjhi's party, supported each other and demonstrated collective electoral strength. Speaking on recent blasts in Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir, Shekhawat described the incidents as unfortunate but hailed the vigilance of security agencies, which prevented greater damage. He underlined that the recovery of 2,900 kg of explosives showed how catastrophic the consequences could have been without timely security measures. He reaffirmed that the government maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and will hold accountable anyone involved, whether in India or abroad. Regarding the Anta Assembly by-election, the minister explained that by-elections involve unique circumstances and cannot be compared directly to general elections. He stated that efforts will continue to ensure the BJP government's policies effectively reach the hearts of the people, and strategies will be developed accordingly. Shekhawat's statements underline that the NDA alliance's victory reflects the triumph of development-focused politics and public trust, while the government remains vigilant and committed to national security and law enforcement. (ANI)
The Indian National Congress (INC) president, Mallikarjun Kharge, on Saturday strongly condemned the blast at a police station in Nowgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed nine lives and injured 24 people. In a post on X, he expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and called for immediate medical attention and treatment for the injured. The party also urged that adequate compensation be provided to the victims and their families to help them cope with this tragic loss. "It is extremely disconcerting and sad to know that 9 precious lives have been lost and 24 people have been injured in a blast at a police station in Nowgam, Jammu & Kashmir. My deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones. The injured must be treated with prompt medical supervision and adequate compensation must be provided to the victims." The Nowgam blast comes just days after the cowardly car blast near the Red Fort in Delhi, highlighting the growing threat of terrorism in the country. The Congress said that these incidents serve as a stark reminder for the Union Government to strengthen its intelligence gathering and anti-terror mechanisms. The party emphasised that the government cannot evade accountability in the face of such security lapses. The INC reaffirmed its stance of standing united with the nation against terrorism. It urged the government to take immediate and concrete steps to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure the safety of citizens. The party criticised the lack of proactive measures in anticipating terror threats and called for a robust review of security protocols, especially in sensitive areas such as Delhi and Jammu & Kashmir. Congress leaders emphasised that a coordinated approach between central and state agencies is essential to protect citizens and law enforcement personnel. The Nowgam incident has once again raised questions about preparedness and vigilance in handling terror threats. The Congress called for immediate investigations to identify the perpetrators and ensure that justice is served without delay. "These developments come days after the cowardly car blast terror attack near Red Fort in Delhi, and is a wake up call for the Union Govt to strengthen intelligence and anti-terror mechanisms. It cannot run away from accountability. The Indian National Congress stands united with the nation, against the scourge of terrorism. In light of the recent Red Fort terror attack, there is an urgent need to convene an all-party meeting to discuss the growing threat of terrorism, which continues to receive backing and support from external forces," said Kharge. The party also urged citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities while reaffirming its commitment to work with all stakeholders to strengthen India's anti-terror infrastructure. (ANI)
Taking it to X, she wrote, "Jai Johar...On the occasion of the birth centenary of Birsa Munda, the heroic leader of the Munda Rebellion, the great ancestor of the tribal community, I offer my respectful salutations."

"This special day is being observed with due respect across the state... A government holiday has been declared on his birth anniversary... The name of this life force of the tribal community is associated with one of our universities in the jungle region. To honour him, we have also named a college after him in North Bengal," she added.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Birsa Munda on his 150th birth anniversary. PM Modi remembered the tribal leader for his unparalleled contribution to the country's freedom movement.

He said that Munda's struggle and sacrifices against the injustice of foreign rule will continue to inspire every generation in the country.

Moreover, President Droupadi Murmu also paid homage to the revered freedom fighter at the Prerna Sthal in the Parliament House complex in New Delhi on the occasion of "Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas", marking his 150th birth anniversary.

President Murmu offered a floral tribute, placing flower petals at the statue of Birsa Munda at Prerna Sthal, commemorating the tribal leader's struggle and legacy.

The occasion was graced by several key dignitaries, including Vice President CP Radhakrishnan, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairperson Harivansh, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, BJP MPs Ramvir Singh Bidhuri and Bansuri Swaraj, among others.

The political leaders remembered the endless efforts and strength of Birsa Munda throughout the freedom struggle. (ANI)
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Dr. Mohan Bhagwat visited Jaipur on Saturday as part of his city tour and paid a visit to the renowned Govind Dev Ji Temple. During his visit, he offered prayers and expressed his devotion before the deity. On arrival at the temple, Bhagwat was welcomed by local representatives and RSS volunteers. He emphasised that maintaining faith and cultural values at religious sites is crucial for the overall development of society. He also observed the temple's arrangements and the rituals performed there. During the visit, he interacted with devotees and local citizens while also reviewing the social and cultural activities conducted within the temple premises. He stated that temples are not just religious centres, but also play an essential role in uniting society and promoting cultural awareness. Dr. Bhagwat highlighted that the RSS works to bring positive change in society and sensitise the youth towards moral and social values. He stressed that preservation of religious sites and social services should go hand in hand to strengthen communities. The visit to Jaipur generated significant enthusiasm among local citizens, with people expressing respect and admiration upon seeing him. RSS officials stated that the tour aimed not only to foster religious engagement but also to promote social and cultural awareness. After the temple visit, Bhagwat emphasised the need for continuous efforts in promoting positive change in society through education, culture, and service. He appealed to the youth to recognise their social responsibilities and actively contribute to the nation's development. (ANI)
Retired IAS K. Jayakumar on Saturday took oath as the newly appointed President of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB). Speaking to reporters, Jayakumar assured transparency in operations amid the ongoing crisis over the Sabarimala gold theft case. "It is a fact that there is a crisis of faith among devotees. Recent reports have caused distress, and we cannot allow such a situation to persist. Transparency will be assured in all operations. Any gaps through which lapses have occurred will be eliminated," the retired bureaucrat said. "Where strict action is necessary, it will be taken. Unauthorised activities will be controlled. Decisions regarding sponsors will be made after due discussions," he added. Former TDB president N Vasu was arrested in connection with the Sabarimala gold theft case, said Kerala Director General of Police Ravada Chandrasekhar. The state's top cop confirmed the development, as Vasu had been questioned earlier by the Special Investigation Team. Vasu is listed as the third accused in the case. On November 7, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Kerala Crime Branch arrested former Thiruvabharanam Commissioner KS Baiju in connection with a gold theft case. Unnikrishnan Potti, the prime accused, was reportedly taken into custody by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on October 17. The SIT, which is investigating the matter, submitted its second report to the Kerala High Court, revealing serious irregularities in the minutes of the Travancore Devaswom Board. According to the SIT report, the record book does not include details about the transfer of the dwarapalaka (guardian deity) idol to Unnikrishnan Potti in 2019. The Sabarimala gold controversy involves allegations of irregularities regarding the gold plating work at the Sabarimala temple. This situation arose from a donation of 30.3 kilograms of gold and 1,900 kilograms of copper by industrialist Vijay Mallya in 1998, intended for the cladding of the sanctum sanctorum and the wooden carvings of the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple in Kerala. (ANI)
To strengthen collaborative efforts aimed at promoting the safe and rational use of medicines, enhancing pharmacovigilance and materiovigilance activities, and advancing patient safety initiatives across the state of Jharkhand.

The MoU was signed by Dr V Kalaiselvan, Secretary-cum-Scientific Director, IPC, and Prasanth Kumar Pandey, Registrar-cum-Secretary, JSPC, in the presence of representatives from both organisations.

Through this collaboration, IPC and JSPC will work together to build the capacity of registered pharmacists in areas related to adverse drug reaction (ADR) reporting, pharmacovigilance and materiovigilance practices, and the safe use of medicines.

The partnership envisions strengthening the utilisation of the National Formulary of India (NFI) as a standard reference document across healthcare facilities in Jharkhand and promoting its systematic use by pharmacists to support rational dispensing and safe medication practices.

It also includes coordinated efforts to organise awareness programmes for hospital and community pharmacists, support the mandatory use of the NFI in institutional pharmacy settings, and facilitate the annual observance of the National Pharmacovigilance Week in collaboration with the IPC.

This MoU is expected to enhance professional engagement, encourage wider participation in ADR reporting, and reinforce medicine safety surveillance mechanisms in the state.

IPC will provide technical guidance and expert support for these initiatives, while JSPC will coordinate with pharmacists in public and private healthcare establishments to ensure effective implementation of the agreed activities.

The collaboration between IPC and JSPC reflects a shared commitment to improving medication safety and strengthening public health systems through structured capacity-building and the promotion of evidence-based pharmacy practice. (ANI)
New Law in North Iraq Offers Investment Opportunities for Assyrian Expatriates

(L to R), Alexander Karana, Intellectual Property Attorney, 2, David Tafuri, USKBC President , 5, KRG PM Masrour Barzani, 6, Nov. 17, 2025. ( KRG) During a recent visit to Iraq with an Assyrian-American delegation, we met with members of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), including the Minister of Investment, Dr. Mohammad Shukri. Our discussions focused on the Kurdistan Region's forward-looking investment laws and the immense potential for diaspora-led economic engagement. We explored strategies to expand opportunities for Christian communities--particularly Assyrians, Chaldeans, and Syriacs--to build sustainable ventures that preserve our presence and prosperity in the land of our ancestors.

A Call to Rebuild from Within

Across the global Assyrian diaspora, one urgent question echoes: How can we empower our people to remain in their ancestral lands and prosper? For decades, emigration has drained our villages of their youth and innovation, leaving behind communities struggling to sustain their cultural and economic vitality. Yet, the foundations of our civilization--in the plains of Nineveh, the valleys of Duhok, and the historic hills of Ankawa and Alqosh--still stand, waiting to be strengthened through vision, unity, and strategic investment.

Those lands--the cradle of our identity--carry both economic and spiritual promise. The path forward lies not only in aid or advocacy but in bold, sustainable investment that transforms heritage into opportunity, empowering our communities to thrive where they belong.

The Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), home to many of our historic towns, has emerged as one of the Middle East's most investor-friendly environments. Unlike federal Iraqi law, which requires local ownership of at least 51 percent of capital, the Kurdistan Region allows 100 percent foreign ownership--granting complete control and protection for diaspora investors, especially those from the United States and Europe. This framework presents a historic opening for Assyrian entrepreneurs to reclaim their role as builders in their homeland, free from restrictive ownership barriers.

THE LEGAL FOUNDATION: KURDISTAN'S INVESTMENT LAW

The Kurdistan Region's Investment Law No. 4 of 2006 is the cornerstone for business formation and foreign investment. It attracts both domestic and international capital and operates independently of Baghdad's framework. The law guarantees equality between local and foreign investors, including ownership rights, profit repatriation, and long-term land-use privileges.

Key Investor Protections and Incentives

100 percent Foreign Ownership -- Diaspora Assyrians may own their businesses outright, through local entities, or foreign branches.

Tax Exemptions -- Projects licensed under the investment law receive up to 10 years of tax holidays, including corporate income tax and customs exemptions on machinery, tools, and raw materials.

Land Use Rights -- Investors can secure long-term leases (up to 50 years, renewable) or land allocations for significant projects such as manufacturing, housing, or tourism. Land may be offered at a promotional rate or even at no cost.

Capital Repatriation -- Investors retain the unrestricted right to repatriate profits and initial capital abroad in freely convertible currency.

Simplified Licensing for Larger Projects -- Investments exceeding approximately $2.5 million qualify for expedited approval and additional incentives, including priority land allocation, infrastructure support, and customs privileges.

Equal Treatment Clause -- The law ensures that foreign investors receive treatment equal to that of local Kurdish investors.

These measures, combined with regional stability and the growth of financial infrastructure, make Kurdistan an optimal destination for diaspora-driven development in Northern Iraq.

STRUCTURING THE INVESTMENT: FROM THE U.S. TO KURDISTAN

To establish a legally secure transnational presence, investors should adopt a two-tier structure: a U.S. holding entity and a Kurdistan operating company. This approach safeguards international enforceability while ensuring compliance with local investment laws.

Step 1: Form a U.S. LLC

A U.S. Limited Liability Company (LLC) serves as the parent entity, holding shares of the Kurdistan subsidiary and providing liability protection under U.S. law.

Key components:

Articles of Organization filed in a U.S. state (e.g., Michigan, Delaware, Illinois)

Operating Agreement defining governance, profit distribution, and dispute resolution

U.S. bank account and EIN for transparent capital transfer

Arbitration clauses specifying neutral jurisdictions (e.g., London, Geneva)

Step 2: Register the Kurdistan Entity (Form 1)

The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) utilizes Form 1 for company registration, which includes:

Company name in English, Arabic, and Kurdish

Description of activity (e.g., manufacturing, agriculture, construction, tourism)

Ownership structure (U.S. LLC may hold 100 percent)

Registered address in Erbil, Duhok, or Sulaymaniyah

Objectives and duration of the company

After approval, the KRG Companies Registrar issues a certificate of incorporation. The company may then apply for a Board of Investment license to access land, tax incentives, and infrastructure support.

ASSET PROTECTION STRATEGIES IN KURDISTAN

Investors must employ legal and operational safeguards to mitigate political, financial, and commercial risks.

Use of Local Entities with Limited Liability -- Kurdistan LLCs protect shareholders from personal liability beyond their capital contributions.

Bilateral Investment Treaties and Legal Jurisdiction -- Iraq's BITs provide recourse through international arbitration (e.g., ICSID). Contracts should explicitly reference these protections.

Arbitration Clauses in All Contracts -- Include neutral arbitration forums such as AAA, LCIA, or ICC Paris.

Asset Segregation by Project -- Create separate entities for distinct ventures to isolate risks.

Land Leases and Title Protections -- Register all leases, include renewal and succession rights, and maintain insurance against expropriation.

Insurance and Local Partnerships -- Maintain political risk insurance (e.g., OPIC, MIGA).

INDUSTRIES VITAL TO OUR PEOPLE'S LONGEVITY

Long-term cultural and economic sustainability requires investment in sectors that create employment, education, and infrastructure within Assyrian communities:

Agriculture and Food Security -- Modern irrigation, grain mills, olive oil processing, and local markets.

Education and Technology -- Vocational schools, digital learning, and bilingual institutions (Sureth/Arabic and English).

Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals -- Clinics, laboratories, telemedicine, and drug distribution.

Construction and Real Estate -- Affordable housing, community centers, and infrastructure renewal.

Cultural Tourism -- Heritage restoration, monasteries, and museums to attract international visitors.

Finance and Micro-Lending -- Diaspora-backed credit unions and small business lending programs.



Each sector strengthens local livelihoods and ensures the Assyrian presence endures in our ancestral lands.

A Vision Rooted in Purpose

Economic revival is not just a business endeavor--it is an act of cultural preservation. Every enterprise established by Assyrian investors fortifies identity and inspires hope for future generations.

Through the Kurdistan legal framework, we can invest with confidence, dignity, and purpose--building institutions that empower our people to stand resilient in the land of their ancestors.

For more information on investing in the Kurdistan Region or structuring a compliant, secure business entity, please contact:

Alexander R. Karana, Esq.

Cummings, McClorey, Davis & Acho, PLC

17436 College Parkway, Livonia, Michigan 48152

Email: AKarana@cmda-law.com

Tel: (734) 261-2400
Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan met Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in Patna today, days after the declaration of the Bihar Assembly election results. Paswan extended his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the Chief Minister on the NDA's resounding majority in the state. Chirag Paswan, who is one of the prominent faces of the NDA's Bihar campaign, described his meeting with the Chief Minister as "cordial and constructive." He said on X that the people of Bihar have given a decisive mandate in favour of the NDA, reflecting their trust in the coalition's leadership and development-oriented politics. Speaking after the meeting, Paswan stated that the NDA's victory is a testament to the collective effort of all alliance partners and the public's strong support for stability and progress. He added that the new government would work with renewed commitment to fulfil the aspirations of the people and accelerate the pace of development across the state. Paswan also said that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's experience and administrative capabilities will play a crucial role in shaping Bihar's future. "I conveyed my warm wishes to Nitish Kumar ji and expressed confidence that under his leadership, the NDA government will continue to deliver on its promises," he said. The meeting holds significance as the NDA partners now prepare to form a stable government following their substantial electoral victory. Chirag Paswan also praised the people of Bihar for participating in record numbers during the election, stating that the high voter turnout reflects a strong desire for good governance and growth. The Chief Minister, according to officials present, thanked Paswan for his support and acknowledged the contribution of all NDA allies in securing the mandate. Nitish Kumar reportedly assured that the new government would work inclusively and prioritise policies aimed at uplifting every section of society. With this meeting, the NDA leadership in Bihar has begun its post-election coordination, signalling a unified approach as the alliance prepares to take governance responsibilities for the next term. The NDA registered a historic landslide victory in the 2025 Bihar Elections, winning 202 of the 243 seats in the state; meanwhile, the Mahagathbandhan could only secure 35 seats.NDA secured a three-fourths majority in the 243-member House. This is the second time the NDA has crossed the 200 mark in the assembly polls. In the 2010 polls, it had won 206 seats. In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats. The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won 25 seats, the Indian National Congress 6, Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) - CPI(ML)(L) - two, Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) - one, and Communist Party of India (Marxist) - CPI(M) - one seat. All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) won five seats, and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) got one seat. The Bihar assembly elections were conducted across two phases on November 6 and 11, respectively. Bihar recorded a historic 67.13% voter turnout, the highest since 1951, with women voters outpacing men (71.6% vs 62.8%). (ANI)
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday expressed grief and concern over the deadly explosion at the Nowgam Police Station in Srinagar district, calling the incident a tragic reminder of the risks faced by security personnel engaged in sensitive investigations. An accidental explosion inside the Nowgam Police Station late Friday night left nine personnel dead and 32 others injured and caused extensive damage to the nearby building. In a post on X, the Congress leader called the incident "extremely heartbreaking and concerning" and said the loss of lives during an investigation underscores the dangers involved in handling high-risk material linked to ongoing terror probes. https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/1989589942625079300 "The explosion at the Naugam police station in Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the death of several security personnel and injuries to many others, is extremely heartbreaking and concerning. Reports indicate that this horrific accident occurred during the investigation of explosives linked to the Red Fort attack. I pay humble tribute to the martyrs and hope for the swift recovery of the injured," Rahul Gandhi wrote. The Nowgam blast comes just days after the car blast near Delhi's Red Fort on November 10, which killed 12 people, highlighting the growing threat of terrorism in the country. The explosion occurred while officers were examining explosives suspected to be connected to the November 10 Red Fort attack case, which killed twelve people and injured several others. Meanwhile, the Indian National Congress (INC) president, Mallikarjun Kharge, on Saturday strongly condemned the blast at a police station in Nowgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed nine lives and injured 24 people. In a post on X, Kharge expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and called for immediate medical care for the injured. He also urged that adequate compensation be provided to the victims and their families. "It is extremely disconcerting and sad to know that nine precious lives have been lost and 24 people have been injured in a blast at a police station in Nowgam, Jammu & Kashmir. My deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones. The injured must be treated with prompt medical supervision and adequate compensation must be provided to the victims." Senior Congress leader and former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also offered heartfelt condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones in the ghastly Nowgam Police Station blast. The Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP), Nalin Prabhat, stressed on Saturday that any speculation about the incident was unnecessary, as preliminary findings pointed to an inadvertent blast during a mandated forensic procedure. Hours after a massive late-night explosion reduced Srinagar's Nowgam Police Station to rubble, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Saturday termed the tragedy an "unfortunate accidental incident." In an official statement, Prashant Lokhande, Joint Secretary, Jammu and Kashmir Division (MHA), stated that the blast occurred at 11:20 pm on November 14 inside the police station. (ANI)
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a Prosecution Complaint or chargesheet against Karnataka's Karwar MLA Satish Krishna Sail in connection with the export of seized iron ore, which caused a loss of Rs 44.09 crore to the government exchequer. In the chargesheet, filed before the special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court in Bengaluru, the agency has also named Shree Mallikarjun Shipping Pvt Ltd. ED files money laundering chargesheet against Karwar MLA Satish Krishna Sail in Rs 44.09 crore iron ore export case, the managing director of Shree Mallikarjun Shipping Pvt Ltd, is accused of entering into a criminal conspiracy with other accused persons and illegally purchasing the seized iron ore stacked at the premises of Belekeri port, disregarding the orders of the Karnataka High Court and seizure orders issued by the forest department. The iron ore so purchased illegally from Ashapura Minechem Ltd, ILC Industries Ltd, Swastik Steel (Hospet) Pvt Lt, Sri Lakshmi Venkateshwara Minerals, Shri Lal Mahal Ltd and PJS Overseas Ltd was exported by the accused persons to the buyers in China, in connivance with Mahesh J Biliye, Port Conservator of Belekeri port, said the ED in a statement. The criminal act of the accused persons caused a loss of Rs 44.09 crore to the government exchequer. Furthermore, the agency stated that its investigation has revealed that the main accused, Satish Krishna Sail, made payments of approximately Rs 46.18 crore to other accused persons for the illegal purchase of seized iron ore. The seized iron ore, ED said, was exported through his undisclosed foreign entity, JI (HEBEI) Iron and Steel Investment Company Limited, Hong Kong (formerly known as Mallikarjun Shipping (HK) Ltd, instead of exporting directly to the ultimate buyers in China, thereby effectively concealing and laundering the Proceeds of Crime (POC). In this manner, the accused company, Shree Mallikarjun Shipping Pvt Ltd, derived POC (profits) amounting to Rs 27.07 crore, while Satish Krishna Sail has derived around Rs 2.09 crore through his foreign entity, JI (HEBEI) Iron and Steel Investment Company Ltd, Hong Kong. "The investigation has also revealed that Satish Krishna Sail maintained several foreign bank accounts, through his foreign entity, in Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited & Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Asia) Limited (ICBC Bank), Hong Kong," said the ED. Earlier, ED conducted searches and arrested Sathish Krishna Sail and seized cash amounting to Rs 1.68 crore, bullion and gold weighing 6.75 kgs (valued at around Rs 6.58 crore) and frozen bank accounts to the tune of Rs 14.13 crore lying in the bank accounts of the accused persons and further attached three immovable properties worth Rs 21 crore. Later, Satish Krishna Sail was granted interim medical bail, which was cancelled by the Special Court on November 11. (ANI)
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday participated in the 'Tribal Pride Day Celebration' organised on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda at Shri Guru Nanak Inter College Ground in Nanakmatta, Udham Singh Nagar. Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dhami paid rich tributes to Bhagwan Birsa Munda, calling him a symbol of courage, sacrifice and tribal identity. He said that Birsa Munda's contribution to India's freedom struggle and his efforts to protect the rights, land and culture of tribal communities continue to inspire generations across the country. Dhami added that the celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas across India reflects the nation's deep respect for the sacrifices and legacy of tribal heroes. The Chief Minister highlighted various initiatives undertaken by the state government for the welfare and upliftment of tribal communities in Uttarakhand. He stated that special focus is being given to education, livelihood, health facilities, road connectivity, and the preservation of tribal art, culture, and traditions. Dhami reiterated the state government's commitment to ensuring that development schemes reach the remotest tribal regions of the state. A large number of tribal community members, students, public representatives, and officials participated in the event, which included cultural performances, traditional dances, exhibitions, and awareness programmes showcasing tribal heritage and achievements. The Chief Minister also interacted with community members and encouraged youth to take inspiration from Birsa Munda's life and contribute actively to nation-building. Dhami said that the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has brought tribal communities to the forefront of national development, with significant expansion of tribal welfare schemes, scholarships, Eklavya schools and opportunities for entrepreneurship. He added that Uttarakhand is committed to carrying forward these efforts with greater speed and transparency. The Chief Minister concluded his address by stating that the spirit, courage and legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda will continue to motivate the nation in its journey towards inclusive development and social harmony. Jharkhand was carved out of Bihar on November 15, 2000, which happens to be the birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda. Birsa Munda, who belonged to the Munda tribe, was born on November 15 in 1875. During British rule in the late 19th century, he spearheaded an Indian tribal religious Millenarian movement across the tribal belt of modern-day Bihar and Jharkhand. His birth anniversary is celebrated as Birsa Munda Jayanti in the country and coincides with the Jharkhand Foundation Day. (ANI)
West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose on Saturday emphasised the need to address the grievances of tribal communities during the Jharkhand Foundation Day event held at Raj Bhavan, West Bengal. Speaking on the occasion, the West Bengal Governor highlighted that tribal rights require greater attention and the timely resolution of their concerns. "The rights of the tribals need much room for improvement... Their grievances are not redressed at the proper time and in the proper way... We should ensure that tribals receive the special attention they deserve. This is not given in adequate measure in many villages in West Bengal, which I have visited," the Governor said. He stated that out of a pool of public issues, including poor road infrastructure, electricity costs, and the unavailability of a sufficient amount of clean drinking water, the worst part is that the grievances of the tribal community are not being properly addressed. "I have been visiting the tribal villages...Ever since I took over as the Governor here...I used to stay with them, interact with them...They are living with a lot of problems, which are not given enough attention by the competent authorities...It is very sad, especially in a country like India where a tribal lady is the President of India..." he stated, highlighting the gap between policy and ground realities. Governor Bose called for immediate attention to the tribal people's grievances to ensure a quick resolution to their problems and improve their quality of life. Governor Bose called for immediate action to ensure that tribal concerns are addressed promptly, with a focus on improving their quality of life and socio-economic conditions. Earlier on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greetings to the people of Jharkhand on the occasion of the State's Foundation Day. In a post on X, he wrote, "Heartfelt greetings to all the residents of the glorious state of Jharkhand, enriched with tribal culture, on the occasion of the state's foundation day. The history of this land of Lord Birsa Munda is filled with tales of courage, struggle, and self-respect. Today, on this special occasion, I extend my wishes for the progress and prosperity of the state along with all my family members in the state." Meanwhile, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi also extended heartfelt wishes to the people of Jharkhand on the state's Foundation Day. In a post shared on social media platform X, Priyanka Gandhi wrote, "Heartiest greetings to all brothers and sisters of Jharkhand on the State Foundation Day...Jharkhand, abundant in natural resources, has a unique folk culture that enriches our diversity. I wish happiness, peace, and progress for all the residents of the state." (ANI)
In light of the Gujarat Anti-Terror Squad's arrest of three men, including a doctor attempting to produce a lethal chemical compound called Ricin, Dr. YK Gupta, the former Chief of the AIIMS National Poison Information Centre, warned that Ricin is extremely toxic and even a small amount, as little as 1 milligram, can be dangerous. He emphasised that there is no specific antidote for Ricin, and it is still considered an agent of biological terrorism today. Speaking with ANI on the alleged ricin terror plot, Dr YK Gupta explained that ricin can be absorbed through the skin or ingested orally. This toxic substance affects various parts of the body, including the respiratory and central nervous systems. When ingested, ricin can lead to severe issues such as vomiting, diarrhoea, gradual organ failure, and potentially death. "Ricin is a chemical, a protein in nature, found in castor seeds. It is very toxic, and even a small amount of 1 milligram can be dangerous. Ricin can be inhaled, absorbed through the skin, or ingested orally... It affects the respiratory system, causing difficulty in breathing, and also affects the Central Nervous System, leading to seizures and CNS depression. When ingested orally, it can cause severe vomiting, diarrhoea, falling blood pressure and gradual organ failure, ultimately leading to death. There is no specific antidote for this, and it is considered to be an agent of biological terrorism even today," explained Dr Gupta. According to Dr Gupta, Ricin was also utilised for criminal activities in the 1970s. It was used to kill a person because it can be mixed into food or the environment, and its origin, castor seeds, is poisonous; once they are broken, they can cause death. "In the 1970s, it was used to kill a specific person because it can be mixed into food or the environment. Castor seeds can be poisonous, and they are so hard that they don't break if swallowed, but when they do break, they can cause death. Because ricin is a protein, it denatures when heated, which helps ensure that castor oil is ricin-free. After extraction, the seeds are turned into a cake used as cattle feed, and it is also ricin-free. This type of chemical is used only in criminal activities," added Gupta. Before the Delhi Blast, which occured near the Red Fort, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on November 9 arrested three suspects, namely Ahmed Mohiuddin Syed, Mohd Suhel and Azad, in connection with the conspiracy to plan terrorist attacks across the country, officials said. According to the ATS, two Glock pistols, one Beretta pistol, 30 live cartridges, and 4 litres of castor oil were recovered from their possession. "Gujarat ATS arrested Dr Ahmed Mohiuddin Syed, Mohd Suhel, and Azad from near Adalaj Toll Plaza. Two Glock pistols, one Beretta pistol, 30 live cartridges, and 4 litres of castor oil were recovered from them. All three were arrested while supplying weapons. They were planning to carry out terrorist attacks in various parts of the country," Gujarat ATS said in their statement. (ANI)
A fresh case of alleged illegal sale of government land has been reported in Pune district, days after a similar incident surfaced in Mundhwa. This time, the matter involves the sale and purchase of 15 acres and 32 gunthas (6.32 hectares) of government land belonging to the Maharashtra Animal Husbandry Department, located in Tathawade near Wakad. According to police, despite the land being officially owned by the Animal Husbandry Department, the transaction was executed using outdated 7/12 extracts and land records. A case has been registered against 26 persons, including the sub-registrar who cleared the registration and those involved in the sale and purchase. The complaint was filed by Dr Amol Sharad Aher, in-charge farm manager at the Government Animal Breeding Centre, Tathawade, at the Dapodi Police Station. Based on his complaint, police have booked 26 accused, including buyers Kapil Chhotam Fakir and Sayyed Faiyyaz Meer Azimuddin, and Joint Sub-Registrar Vidya Shankar Bade-Sangale. Police said the alleged unauthorised sale of land in Survey No. 20 at Tathawade came to light during an inspection earlier this month. The accused reportedly claimed that the land once belonged to Heramb Pandharinath Gupchup. However, the existing 7/12 extract clearly mentions that the land is under the possession of the Animal Husbandry Commissioner and prohibits any sale or purchase without prior government sanction. Despite this, the land was sold for Rs 33 crore, using old land records. The deed was registered on January 9, 2025, at the Sub-Registrar's office (Haveli 17) in Dapodi by Joint Sub-Registrar Vidya Shankar Bade-Sangale. After the department noticed the transaction, it lodged a police complaint at Dapodi Police Station of Pimpri Chinchwad Police, seeking action against the sub-registrar and others involved in the alleged fraudulent deal. (ANI)
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the Dehradun Literature Festival held at Doon International School on Mohini Road on Saturday. On this occasion, he released the book 'Leading Ladies of India', authored by Venu Agrahara Dhingra. The Chief Minister said that literature is a powerful medium for expressing emotions, thoughts, and experiences. It also plays a crucial role in fostering social and cultural awareness. He expressed hope that the 'Leading Ladies of India' would inspire readers, especially women, to move forward with confidence. During the event, CM Dhami saidthat under the guidance of PM Narendra Modi, the state government is continuously working towards women's empowerment. He mentioned that the demand for products made by women's self-help groups in the state is steadily increasing. Several schemes are being implemented by the state government to empower women to become self-reliant. He added that empowering women is essential for the holistic development of society. The Uttarakhand Chief Minister said that today, daughters of the state are performing commendably in every field. He also stated that the soul of Uttarakhand lies in its culture, and the government is continuously working to preserve the region's cultural heritage and traditions. The Chief Minister further said that for the past two years, the state has been organising the Pravasi Uttarakhandi Conference. Its main objective is to keep people connected to their roots. Following the organisation of these conferences, many expatriates have expressed their desire to contribute to the development of their native villages and to the progress of the state. On this occasion, Geeta Pushkar Dhami, Principal Secretary R.K. Sudhanshu, Doon International School Group Founder D.S. Mann, and other dignitaries were present at the event. (ANI)
A day after the ruling NDA's sweeping victory in Bihar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday lambasted the Mahagathbandhan and said there is a 10 per cent difference between the two alliances, and voters cast their ballot on the issue of development. Addressing a gathering at Surat airport, PM Modi accused the leaders of Congress and RJD of spreading rhetoric of caste politics in Bihar and said people of Bihar have rejected "the poison of caste division". The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Bihar swept the polls, winning 202 of 243 seats. "In this election, there's a 10 per cent vote difference between the victorious NDA alliance and the defeated Mahagathbandhan. This is a significant amount. This means that the average voter voted one way, and on what issue? Development. The yearning for development in Bihar today is palpable," PM Modi said. "Bihar is famous worldwide today. Go anywhere in the world, and you'll find Bihar's talent. Bihar is now showing a willingness to reach new heights in development. This election reflected that willingness. Bihar's women and youth formed a combination that strengthened the foundation of politics for decades to come. Those who analyse politics will take months to analyse the implications of Bihar's election results," he added. PM Modi said people from Bihar living in Surat were closely monitoring the polls held in the state. "My brothers and sisters living in Surat were closely monitoring this election. The people of Bihar don't need to be taught politics. They have the power to teach politics to the rest of the world," he said. "Today, the hunger for development in Bihar is visible everywhere. I remember how, during Covid, people across the country were returning to their homes. At that time, I had the chance to interact with people from Bihar, and many of them used that difficult period to start their own businesses. This is the true strength of the people of Bihar. Wherever you go in the world, you will always find Bihar's talent shining through," he added. PM Modi took veiled digs at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav. "For the past two years, these 'bail-bound leaders' kept running around Bihar, spreading the rhetoric of caste politics. They tried hard to inject the poison of caste division. But in this election, the people of Bihar completely rejected that poison," he said. The NDA's 'tsunami' swept away the opposition Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party with 89 seats, and the Janata Dal (United) finishing a close second with 85. The other allies of the ruling coalition also registered high strike rates. The parties of the Mahagathbandhan, including the RJD and Congress, suffered significant setbacks, and Jan Suraaj, which had hoped for an impressive debut after its founder, Prashant Kishor, conducted an extensive campaign, failed to open its account. The ruling NDA got 202 seats, a three-fourths majority in the 243-member House. This is the second time the NDA has crossed the 200-mark in the assembly polls. In the 2010 polls, it had won 206 seats. In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats. In Mahagathbandhan, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won 25 seats, Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) - CPI(ML)(L) - two, Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) - one and Communist Party of India (Marxist) - CPI(M) one seat. All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) won five seats, and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) got one seat. (ANI)
Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare J P Nadda on Saturday inaugurated AMRIT (Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment) Pharmacy's 10th Anniversary Celebrations at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The event marked a significant milestone in affordable medicine access and recognized the public sector's continuing commitment to universal health coverage, said Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Since their inception in 2015, AMRIT pharmacies have been instrumental in providing life-saving and essential medicines at discounts ranging from 50 per cent to 90 per cent, substantially bringing down treatment costs for patients, especially those from low-income backgrounds. Addressing the gathering, Nadda congratulated HLL Lifecare Ltd. for its consistent and high-quality efforts in implementing AMRIT. He recalled that in 2014, under the leadership of Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government resolved to make healthcare accessible, affordable, and equitable for all citizens. It was with this vision that Jan Aushadhi and AMRIT were conceived--both designed to deliver medicines and medical supplies at affordable rates. Nadda highlighted that AMRIT has grown into a robust national network, with over 255 pharmacies currently operational, with a vision to expand this network to 500 outlets across the country. He also emphasized that, while every AIIMS in the country today has an AMRIT pharmacy, the next challenge is to ensure that every medical college and every district Hospital in India is equipped with AMRIT pharmacy, so that affordable medicines reach citizens at every level of the healthcare system. He stated that by offering 50 per cent discounts on branded medicines, it has benefited more than 6.85 crore patients and reiterated that medicines worth over Rs 17,000 at MRP have been dispensed so far, resulting in cumulative savings of approximately Rs 8,500 crore for patients. The Union Minister highlighted that the AMRIT initiative has evolved into a robust national network, currently comprising over 255 operational pharmacies. The goal is to expand this network to 500 outlets nationwide. He also stressed that while every AIIMS facility in India now has an AMRIT pharmacy, the next challenge is to ensure that every medical college and district hospital is equipped with an AMRIT pharmacy. This will help guarantee that affordable medicines are accessible to citizens at every level of the healthcare system. The Union Health Minister also underscored the importance of increasing public awareness about AMRIT pharmacies. He stated that more citizens must be informed about the benefits and availability of AMRIT outlets so they can actively seek and utilise the affordable services offered. Speaking at the occasion, Punya Salila Srivastava, Union Health Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, highlighted that the AMRIT initiative was launched under the vision of PM Modi and under the guidance of Union Health Minister JP Nadda, with the core objective of ensuring affordable, accessible and equitable access to quality medicines for every citizen. Appreciating the commitment of HLL Lifecare Limited and the AMRIT Pharmacy network, she also stated that the "HLL family and the AMRIT pharmacy network have assured that they will continue to expand the network, improve systems, and further strengthen operations with Josh, Junoon and Jazbaat, energy, enthusiasm and spirit." Additionally, JP Nadda also inaugurated 10 new AMRIT outlets across India. He also launched AMRIT ITes - Eco Green Version 2.0, an upgraded and environmentally sustainable digital platform that aims to streamline operations, enhance transparency, and improve efficiency across the AMRIT network. The event also featured the release of Customised My Stamp in association with India Post. Moreover, a Mobile Pharmacy Van for rural outreach in the NCR region was flagged off, enabling doorstep delivery of affordable medicines to underserved and remote communities. Furthermore, to strengthen citizen interface, a 24x7 National Contact Centre was inaugurated to offer real-time assistance on medicine availability, pricing, and the nearest AMRIT pharmacy locations. HLL Lifecare Limited, the implementing agency of AMRIT, is a Mini Ratna Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Through its diverse portfolio, spanning contraceptives, hospital products, medical devices, and services, etc, under AMRIT, HLL serves as a comprehensive healthcare solutions provider. The organisation operates seven state-of-the-art factories, five subsidiaries, and a corporate R&D centre. (ANI)
Patriarch Sako Calls for Assyrian Political Unity in Iraq

Patriarch of the Chaldean Church Mar Louis Raphael Sako issued a statement, on 13 November, calling on the Assyrians to unite their voice. This urgent patriarchal call comes against the backdrop of parliamentary elections held earlier this week. Within the manipulable quota system, where five parliamentary seats are allocated to Christians, two Assyrian candidates were elected to parliament with the backing of a Shia political block and three with the backing of a Kurdish political bloc. Several Assyrian parties have strongly denounced the confiscation of this constitutional right to elect their own representatives.

This week's Iraqi elections have again exposed the precarious political maneuvering space within which the Assyrian people of Iraq operate. Addressing the longtime manipulation of the Christian quota and the political weakness within his own people, Mar Louis Sako reiterated in his statement his previous call to the Christians of Iraq to start working as a team and to speak with one voice. Mar Louis words it as "to move beyond emotions and illusions." He urges the Christians of Iraq, i.e. basically the Assyrians, to unite in one independent body, a council that acts as a representative political platform. This council should be formed from Assyrian political parties, honorable and trustworthy MPs, activists, experts and consultants from inside and outside Iraq, "without involving clergymen," hinting at the necessity of separating religion from politics.

Only when Assyrians unite their demands through a common council can "just political representation" be achieved, Mar Louis states. Moreover, he mentions several goals that could be achieved if such a unified front would come into being: amendment of the election law to protect the Christian quota; removal of unwanted militias from the Nineveh Plains and replaced by own town guards and police; Assyrians can obtain a united (self-) administration in the Nineveh Plains; and Assyrians can return to their hometowns.

To achieve all this, Mar Louis proposes to base the Council on a shared foundation: Christianity. This is perhaps to avoid the heated name debates within the Assyrian people. Possibly because he doesn't want to conflate religious names with historical national names. It's not entirely clear, and perhaps not important either. For Mar Louis, "The beauty of unity lies in diversity." Whether this admirable idea will resonate within the Assyrian people remains to be seen.
NCP-SCP chief Sharad Pawar on Saturday accused NDA of engaging in "corruption" by distributing Rs 10,000 under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana just before the Bihar Assembly election. Sharad Pawar stated that the same technique was also employed before the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly election under the name of the Ladki Bahin Yojana to influence women's votes. "The headlines in the newspapers today say that they (NDA) gave Rs 10,000 to women and that resulted in their victory. Giving Rs 10,000 right before elections is a corruption of sorts. This was done by the state government there. They got the results for it. We accept it." Sharad Pawar said. "The same thing happened in Maharashtra before the elections. In the name of 'Ladki Bahin Yojana', money was disbursed (to women)," he added. Women's vote was instrumental in the NDA's 'tsunami' that swept away the opposition Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party with 89 seats, and the Janata Dal (United) finishing a close second with 85. The other allies of the ruling coalition also registered high strike rates. Women voters outnumbered men in the two-phase assembly elections held on November 6 and November 11. The state recorded a historic turnout of 67.13%, the highest since 1951, with 71.6% women voting compared to 62.8% of men. This nearly 9-point difference could point to the voter block rallying behind Nitish Kumar, getting behind the multiple women's welfare measures implemented under the Nitish Kumar-led government. Ahead of the assembly elections, CM Nitish Kumar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced Rs 10,000 under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, benefitting nearly 1.25 crore women under the scheme. The ruling NDA got 202 seats, a three-fourths majority in the 243-member House. This is the second time the NDA has crossed the 200-mark in the assembly polls. In the 2010 polls, it had won 206 seats. In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats. In Mahagathbandhan, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won 25 seats, Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) - CPI(ML)(L) - two, Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) - one and Communist Party of India (Marxist) - CPI(M) one seat. All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) won five seats, and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) got one seat. (ANI)
On her behalf, the Rs 10 lakh cheque was handed over to the Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami by Vinod Uniyal, Vice Chairperson of the State Women's Entrepreneurship Council.

The Chief Minister expressed his gratitude for Bachendri Pal's social contribution, stating that the spirit of support and service during challenging times strengthens society. He added that such contributions not only help those in need but also inspire people to participate in public welfare initiatives.

Bachendri Pal was the India's first woman to climb Mount Everest. She achieved the feat on May 23, 1984.

Earlier today, CM Dhami participated in the 'Tribal Pride Day Celebration' organised on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda at Shri Guru Nanak Inter College Ground in Nanakmatta, Udham Singh Nagar.

November 15 is celebrated as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (Tribal Pride Day) to commemorate the birth anniversary of tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dhami paid rich tributes to Birsa Munda, calling him a symbol of courage, sacrifice and tribal identity. He said that Birsa Munda's contribution to India's freedom struggle and his efforts to protect the rights, land and culture of tribal communities continue to inspire generations across the country.

Dhami added that the celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas across India reflects the nation's deep respect for the sacrifices and legacy of tribal heroes.

The Chief Minister highlighted various initiatives undertaken by the state government for the welfare and upliftment of tribal communities in Uttarakhand. He stated that special focus is being given to education, livelihood, health facilities, road connectivity, and the preservation of tribal art, culture, and traditions. Dhami reiterated the state government's commitment to ensuring that development schemes reach the remotest tribal regions of the state.

Dhami said that the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has brought tribal communities to the forefront of national development, with significant expansion of tribal welfare schemes, scholarships, Eklavya schools and opportunities for entrepreneurship. He added that Uttarakhand is committed to carrying forward these efforts with greater speed and transparency. (ANI)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will chair the 32nd meeting of the Northern Zonal Council on November 17 in Haryana's Faridabad to discuss a wide range of issues, including water sharing, reorganisation of states, development of infrastructure, land acquisition, and environmental and forest-related clearance. Besides, regional connectivity under the UDAN scheme and other issues of common interest at the regional level are learnt to be discussed in the meeting to be attended by the Chief Ministers along with two senior ministers from Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh and the Lieutenant Governors and administrators of Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Chandigarh. The matters linked to the Bhakra-Beas Management Board, affiliation with Punjab University, road construction work under the PMGSY, and canal projects discussed in the 31st meeting of the Northern Zonal Council appear to have been reviewed in the meeting. Many issues of national importance are also discussed in the meeting. These include operationalization of Fast Track Special Courts (FSTC) for speedy investigation and speedy disposal of rape cases against women and children, facility of banks and India Post Payment Bank branches within 5 km of each village, creation of two lakh new Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACSs) in the country, eliminating malnutrition among children through nutrition campaign, reducing the drop-out rate of school children, participation of government hospitals in Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan ArogyaYojana (AB PM-JAY) and other issues of common interest at the national level. One good practice from each state and the Union Territory selected by the Standing Committee will also be presented by the member states and the UTs in the meeting. The meeting is being organised by the Inter-State Council Secretariat under the Ministry of Home Affairs, in collaboration with the Government of Haryana. The Chief Secretaries and other senior officers of the state governments and UTs, and senior officers of the Central government, will also participate in the meeting. Since June 2014, more than 50 meetings of various Zonal Councils have been held. Five Zonal Councils were established in 1957 under Section 15-22 of the States Reorganisation Act, 1956. The Union Home Minister is the Chairman of these five Zonal Councils while the Chief Ministers of the states and the administrators and Lieutenant Governors of the UTs included in the respective Zonal Council are its members. One of these members is designated as the Vice-Chairman by rotation each year. The Governor nominates two more ministers from each state as members of the council. Each Zonal Council has also constituted a Standing Committee at the level of Chief Secretaries. Zonal Councils provide a platform to enhance cooperation through a systematic mechanism for regular dialogue and discussion on issues affecting two or more states or the Centre and the states. Zonal Councils play an advisory role, but over the years, these councils have evolved into an important mechanism for promoting mutual understanding and cooperation across various fields. (ANI)
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday assured that the Government will provide every possible support to the families of the victims who lost their lives in the Nowgam Police Station explosion. CM Abdullah has directed J-K Education and Health Minister Sakina Itoo to ensure the best treatment for the injured, and assured that the damaged structures will be duly compensated.", an official statement issued by the Chief Minister's office read. National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Saturday called for a thorough and independent investigation into the Nowgam police station blast, saying that "mistakes" in the initial handling of the explosive may have contributed to the tragedy that claimed nine lives and damaged multiple residential structures. Speaking to ANI in Srinagar, the former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister criticised the manner in which the explosive material was dealt with by local authorities, stressing that those with proper expertise should have been consulted beforehand. "This is our mistake. Those who understand this explosion better should have been consulted first about how to deal with it, rather than trying to handle it ourselves. You saw the result: nine people lost their lives. So much damage was caused to the houses there," he said. Abdullah also linked the fallout of the Nowgam explosion to the atmosphere of suspicion that Kashmiri residents are currently facing across the country following the recent blast in Delhi. "We haven't yet come out of the crisis in Delhi, where fingers are being pointed at every Kashmiri. When will that day come when they will accept that we are Indians and we are not responsible for this? Ask those who are responsible why these doctors had to take this path. What was the reason?" he remarked. The Nowgam blast, which occurred during the handling of an explosive device inside the police station premises, is being probed by the Jammu and Kashmir Police. The Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP), Nalin Prabhat, stressed on Saturday that any speculation about the incident was unnecessary, as preliminary findings pointed to an inadvertent blast during a mandated forensic procedure. An accidental explosion inside the Nowgam Police Station late Friday night left nine personnel dead and 32 others injured and caused extensive damage to the nearby building. The injured were admitted to Shri Maharaja Hari Singh Hospital (SMHS) in Srinagar for further treatment. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas programme, marking the 150th Birth Anniversary celebration of Dharti Aaba Bhagwan Birsa Munda, in Dediapada, Gujarat, on Saturday. On the occasion, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of various infrastructure and development projects worth over Rs 9,700 crore, according to a release. Stating that the sacred land of Maa Narmada is today witnessing yet another historic occasion, PM Modi recalled that on October 31, the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel was celebrated at the same venue, marking the celebration of India's unity and diversity, and the initiation of Bharat Parv. With the grand celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda today, the Prime Minister remarked that we are witnessing the culmination of Bharat Parv. He paid homage to Birsa Munda on this auspicious occasion. The Prime Minister highlighted that the blessings of Govind Guru, who awakened the spirit of freedom in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and the entire tribal belt, is also associated with this event. From the dais, he offered his respects to Govind Guru. He further shared that he had the privilege of visiting the shrine of Devmogra Mata a short while ago and once again bowed at her feet, according to the release. Highlighting that the regions of Dediapada and Sagbara have been inspired by the teachings of Sant Kabir, the Prime Minister mentioned that he is a Member of Parliament from Varanasi, the land of Sant Kabir, and therefore, Sant Kabir holds a special place in his life. From the dais, he also offered his respects to Sant Kabir. PM Modi highlighted that several projects related to national development and tribal welfare were inaugurated and foundation stones laid today. Under PM-JANMAN and other schemes, one lakh families in the region have been provided with permanent houses. A large number of Eklavya Model Schools and Ashram Schools have also been inaugurated and their foundation stones laid. The Prime Minister informed that the Shri Govind Guru Chair has been established at the Birsa Munda Tribal University. Several other projects related to health, roads, and transport have also been initiated. He congratulated everyone for these developments and service initiatives. Stating that in 2021, the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda was officially commemorated as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, PM Modi remarked that tribal pride has been an integral part of India's consciousness for thousands of years. Whenever the nation's honour, self-respect, and freedom were at stake, the tribal communities stood at the forefront, the release stated. He highlighted that India's freedom struggle is the greatest example of this spirit. The Prime Minister noted that countless bravehearts from the tribal community carried forward the torch of freedom. He named Tilka Manjhi, Rani Gaidinliu, Sidho-Kanho, Bhairav Murmu, Buddhu Bhagat, and Alluri Sitarama Raju as inspiring figures from the tribal society. He further mentioned Tantya Bhil from Madhya Pradesh, Veer Narayan Singh from Chhattisgarh, Telanga Khadia from Jharkhand, Rupchand Konwar from Assam, and Laxman Nayak from Odisha as valiant individuals who made immense sacrifices for India's independence. He emphasized that the tribal community led countless revolts and shed their blood for the nation's freedom. Noting that Gujarat has also been home to many valiant patriots from the tribal community, the Prime Minister mentioned Govind Guru, who led the Bhagat Movement; Raja Roopsingh Nayak, who fought a prolonged battle against the British government in Panchmahal; Motilal Tejawat, who initiated the Eki Movement; and Dashriben Chaudhary, who brought Gandhiji's principles to the tribal society. He remarked that numerous chapters of the freedom struggle are adorned with tribal pride and valour. PM Modi further emphasised the importance of passing on the tribal community's contribution to the freedom movement to future generations. He informed that several tribal museums are being established across the country. In Gujarat, a vast tribal museum is being constructed on 25 acres in Rajpipla. He also shared that a few days ago, he visited Chhattisgarh and inaugurated the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Tribal Museum there. He also mentioned the jail, where Birsa Munda was imprisoned, being developed into a tribal museum in Ranchi, the release stated. Announcing the establishment of the Govind Guru Chair for Tribal Language Promotion Centre, PM Modi stated that the centre will study the dialects of tribal communities such as Bhil, Gamit, Vasava, Garasia, Konkani, Santhal, Rathwa, Nayak, Dabla, Chaudhary, Kokna, Kumbhi, Warli, and Dodia. Stories and songs associated with these communities will be preserved. The Prime Minister highlighted that the tribal society possesses knowledge acquired through thousands of years of experience. He remarked that their way of life embodies science, their stories reflect philosophy, and their languages carry an understanding of the environment. He affirmed that the Shri Govind Guru Chair will serve to connect the new generation with this rich tradition. The Prime Minister stated that the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas also reminds us of the injustice done to crores of our tribal brothers and sisters. He remarked that the opposition party, which ruled the country for six decades, left the tribal communities to their fate. He highlighted that tribal regions suffered from malnutrition, lack of healthcare, inadequate education, and poor connectivity. These deficiencies became the defining features of tribal areas, while previous governments remained inactive. Asserting that tribal welfare has always been the highest priority for their party, PM Modi affirmed the government's unwavering resolve to end the injustices faced by tribal communities and to ensure that the benefits of development reach them, the release stated. Emphasising that under Atal Bihari Vajpayee's rule, their party had established a separate ministry for tribal affairs, PM Modi said however, after Atal Ji's tenure, the succeeding dispensation neglected this ministry for ten years. He remarked that in 2013, the then government allocated only a few thousand crore for tribal welfare. The Prime Minister stressed that after their government came to power, it renewed its commitment to tribal interests and increased the ministry's budget. He highlighted that today, the budget for the Ministry of Tribal Affairs has risen multifold for the welfare of the tribal people. Pointing out that there was a time when the condition of tribal areas in Gujarat was not very good, PM Modi highlighted that from Ambaji to Umargam, there was not a single science school in the tribal belt. In regions like Dediapada and Sagbara, students did not have the opportunity to pursue higher education. Recalling his tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, he mentioned that he had launched the Kanya Kelavani Mahotsav from Dediapada itself. He shared that many children used to meet him during that time--some expressed their desire to become doctors, others aspired to be engineers or scientists. He said he used to encourage them to move forward and assured them that any obstacles in the path of fulfilling their dreams would be removed, the release stated. PM Modi further added that Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas holds the true essence of traditions which is being upheld by the tribal communities and also holds the aspirations for the future generations. Therefore, he said, that across India, on November 15, the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, is being commemorated as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas. He concluded by adding that we should move with new strength and vigour by being rooted in Indianness and achieve new pinnacles of glory. Governor of Gujarat, Acharya Devvrat, Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel were present among other dignitaries at the event. During the programme in Dediapada, the Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects aimed at uplifting tribal communities and improving infrastructure in rural and remote areas of the region. Prime Minister participated in the Grih Pravesh of 100,000 houses built under Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) and Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DA-JAGUA). Prime Minister inaugurated 42 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) dedicated to Tribal students worth around Rs 1,900 crores; 228 Multi-Purpose Centres to act as hub for community-led activities; Centre of Competence in Assam Medical College, Dibrugarh, and Tribal Research Institute (TRI) building Imphal, Manipur for the preservation of tribal culture and heritage. In addition, Prime Minister flagged off 250 buses for 14 tribal districts of Gujarat to improve connectivity in tribal regions. Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for 748 km of new roads to enhance connectivity in tribal areas and 14 Tribal Multi-Marketing Centres (TMMCs) under DA-JAGUA to serve as community hubs. He will also lay the foundation stone of 50 new Eklavya Model Residential Schools, worth over Rs 2,320 crore, furthering the government's commitment to providing quality education for tribal children, the release stated. (ANI)
Jammu Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Joginder Singh on Saturday said the two persons were arrested with a large quantity of heroin, and preliminary investigation has indicated links to networks operating from Pakistan and Punjab. Speaking to ANI, Singh said, "The day before yesterday night, we arrested two people, from whom we confiscated more than 3kg of heroin." He added, "During preliminary investigation, we found that the two had some connection to Pakistan and Punjab. We have identified the entire module." Issuing an advisory to residents amid rising winter inflow, the SSP urged strict tenant verification. "Since Jammu is our winter capital, there is a huge rush in Jammu in winter. Currently, many people come here and live on rent. I appeal to the public that if you are keeping any tenants, do get them verified by the Police once." Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary has called for a high-level probe into the tragic blast at the Nowgam Police Station in Srinagar, which killed nine police personnel and left 32 others injured late Friday night. Speaking to ANI, Choudhary said the unexpected timing of the blast triggered panic among residents. "The news got out last night, and people panicked. There are blasts which are pre-planned by militants, but we don't know what to say about this unfortunate blast." Reflecting on the decades-long cycle of violence in Jammu and Kashmir, he said, "It is unfortunate for J&K that we have been seeing such incidents since 35-36 years where personnel of security forces, civil administration, or even civilians have laid down their lives to keep this country strong." He further added that collective efforts were needed to restore peace. "We pray for peace and a time when such incidents don't happen. There should be a high-level inquiry into this incident." According to officials, the accidental explosion occurred while personnel were handling explosives during a mandated forensic examination, causing extensive damage to the police station building. The injured were shifted to Shri Maharaja Hari Singh (SMHS) Hospital in Srinagar for treatment. Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat on Saturday appealed against speculation, stating that early findings indicated an inadvertent blast during a standard procedural examination. (ANI)
Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) president Farooq Abdullah on Saturday said that India and Pakistan should work toward improving their relations. His statment comes after an explosion inside the Nowgam Police Station late Friday night left nine personnel dead and 32 others injured and caused extensive damage to the nearby building. Speaking to ANI, JKNC chief said, "I hope no such thing (Operation Sindoor) will happen. Nothing came out of it (Operation Sindoor). Our 18 people died. Our borders were compromised. I hope both nations improve their relations. That is the only way. I want to repeat what Vajpayee Ji said, friends can be changed, but neighbours cannot." Earlier today, Abdullah called for a thorough and independent investigation into the Nowgam police station blast, saying that "mistakes" in the initial handling of the explosive may have contributed to the tragedy that claimed nine lives and damaged multiple residential structures. Speaking to ANI in Srinagar, the former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister criticised the manner in which the explosive material was dealt with by local authorities, stressing that those with proper expertise should have been consulted beforehand. "This is our mistake, those who understand this explosive better, we should have talked to them first about how to deal with it instead of trying to handle it ourselves, you saw the result, nine people lost their lives. So much damage was caused to the houses there," he said. Abdullah also linked the fallout of the Nowgam explosion to the atmosphere of suspicion that Kashmiri residents are currently facing across the country following the recent blast in Delhi. "We haven't yet come out of the crisis in Delhi where fingers are being pointed at every Kashmiri. When will that day come when they will accept that we are Indians and we are not responsible for this, ask those who are responsible why these doctors had to take this path? What was the reason?" he remarked. Calling for accountability, the JKNC chief argued that the circumstances leading to the blast, including the alleged involvement of individuals with medical backgrounds, demand a deeper probe. "There is a need for a thorough investigation and study of this," he said, urging authorities to establish responsibility and prevent similar incidents. The Nowgam blast, which occurred during the handling of an explosive device inside the police station premises, is being probed by the Jammu and Kashmir Police. (ANI)
Following Faridabad-based Al-Falah University coming under the scanner in connection with the recent blast near Delhi's Red Fort, former Jammu and Kashmir Director-General of Police SP Vaid on Saturday said that such a university should be immediately closed. Speaking to ANI, SP Vaid said, "Al-Falah University looks like a hub of terrorism. I was reading that the owner of Al-Falah University was in jail for three years for fraud. I don't know how such a person can get a license for a university. Regrettably, such a thing was happening, and I am glad that the government has directed the ED, NIA, and other agencies to investigate its accounts for any foreign funding. How can a university function without NAAC accreditation?" "How can a University function without the sanction of the University Grants Commission or the Indian Medical Council. How can graduate and post-graduate degrees be allotted without the approval of IMC? I am glad that the government is going after such fraudulent universities. Such a university should be immediately closed," he added. Al-Falah University has come under the brunt after two of its practising doctors are suspected of being involved in the November 10 blast incident in New Delhi. Reacting to the degree of accused doctors in the Delhi blast being cancelled, SP Vaid further said, "That's what was required, and the whole country expected it, and the government has done it. These individuals should not be allowed to practice the medical profession, as they are not qualified doctors. They are terrorists. How can anybody trust them? I'm delighted on behalf of my country that the government has taken the right step to cancel their degrees." The National Medical Commission (NMC) has cancelled the registration of four doctors from Jammu and Kashmir - Dr Muzaffar Ahmad, Dr Adeel Ahmad Rather, Dr Muzamil Shakeel and Dr Shaheen Saeed - in the Indian Medical Register/National Medical Register with immediate effect, sources told ANI. All State Medical Councils have been informed about the decision. On the Nowgam police station blast incident, former J&K DGP SP Vaid said, "J-K DGP said that this is an accident, and if someone else claims responsibility for this accident, then we should not listen to them. It is always challenging to handle a huge quantity of explosives. You have to store it in a safe place and take all the precautions.I am sure they must have done it, but I don't know how this accident happened." An accidental explosion inside the Nowgam Police Station late Friday night left nine personnel dead and 32 others injured and caused extensive damage to the nearby building. The injured were admitted to Shri Maharaja Hari Singh Hospital (SMHS) in Srinagar for further treatment. The DGP informed that nine individuals who lost their lives included one officer from the State Investigation Agency (SIA), three FSL personnel, two crime-scene photographers, two revenue officials who were assisting the Magistrate's team, and a tailor associated with the operation. (ANI)
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said on Saturday that he met with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, but their discussion was limited to the Bihar elections, with no mention of a Cabinet reshuffle. He further added that he plans to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, provided he receives an appointment. Speaking to reporters, Karnataka CM said, "Yes, I met Rahul Gandhi. We only discussed the Bihar election. He's our leader, so we encouraged him after a setback in the Bihar election. He said he's not worried about it. We have told him not to lose his spirit. There was no discussion about a cabinet reshuffle at all. I will meet the PM on Monday if I get an appointment." In October, terming Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's word as final, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Monday said that he would go by what the CM says amid speculations about the change in the leadership and a Cabinet reshuffle here in the state government."What is left to be said after the CM's statement? We follow his word," Shivakumar told reporters when asked about CM Siddaramaiah's statement that he would complete the full term as CM if the Congress High Command agrees. Meanwhile, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) led by Nitish Kumar registered a landslide victory in the Bihar polls. The NDA secured 202 seats out of 243, with the BJP emerging as the single largest party, winning 89 seats.NDA: BJP: 89 seats, JD(U): 85 seats, LJP (RV): 19 seats, HAM (S): 5 seats and RLM: 4 seats, while Mahagathbandhan: RJD: 25 seats, INC: 6 seats, CPI(ML)(L): 2 seats, CPI(M): 1 seat. IIP won 1 seat and AIMIM won 5 seats. Earlier today, Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi claimed that the Bihar Assembly election was "unfair from the beginning" after the party failed to hit double digits despite contesting on 61 seats. Gandhi said that the party will review its performance after the election and assured that Congress will continue to "fight for the protection of the Constitution and democracy." In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi said, "I express my heartfelt gratitude to those millions of voters in Bihar who expressed their trust in the Mahagathbandhan. This result in Bihar is truly surprising. We could not achieve victory in an election that was unfair from the very beginning." "This fight is for the protection of the Constitution and democracy. The Congress Party and the INDIA alliance will deeply review this result and make their efforts to save democracy even more effective," he added. (ANI)
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) team on Saturday visited the residence of the family that lost two young girls in the Karur Velusamipuram stampede, as the probe into the tragedy continues to widen under Supreme Court directions. The three-member CBI team met the bereaved family members to gather direct accounts and additional details regarding the incident. The visit forms part of the agency's multi-stage investigation that began on October 17, after the Supreme Court transferred the case to the CBI following multiple petitions. The stampede occurred on September 27 during a public outreach event of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor-politician Vijay in the Velusamipuram area of Karur. A sudden surge in the crowd led to the deaths of 41 people, leaving the state in shock. Since taking over, CBI officials have issued summons to several individuals and conducted inquiries at the Karur Tourist Bungalow and Circuit House. Meanwhile, three members of TVK-including representatives from the party's legal team and Trichy Zonal Joint Coordinator Arasu, appeared before the CBI on Saturday in connection with the investigation. The questioning is part of the agency's ongoing effort to determine the cause of the stampede and hold those responsible accountable. The probe has seen the CBI questioning people from various backgrounds, including members of the public, traders, police personnel, ambulance drivers and vehicle owners. TVK Deputy General Secretary Nirmal Kumar was also present during the inquiry at the party headquarters in Chennai. On Sunday, eight local traders and business owners from Velusamipuram, among them a petrol bunk owner, textile shop owner, mobile shop owner, and a mechanic, appeared before the CBI following a summons issued as part of the expanding investigation. Officials have reportedly summoned over 100 individuals linked to the event so far. Earlier, the CBI also carried out 3D laser scanning and measurement work across nearly 700 metres in and around the Velusamipuram area to reconstruct the sequence of events leading to the stampede. (ANI)
The Significance of Official Language Status of Assyrian in Syria

(AINA) -- The recent decision by the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES) to officially incorporate the Assyrian language into its website marks a significant milestone for cultural representation, linguistic rights, and digital inclusion. With this update, the Assyrian language now appears alongside Kurdish, Arabic, and English as one of the languages used in publishing governmental news, official statements, and administrative updates. The move fulfils the commitments outlined in the Social Contract issued in December 2023, which recognized Assyrian as an official language across all areas governed by DAARNES.

The publication of content in Assyrian on the official website began on Thursday, receiving widespread praise from the Assyrian (Aramean--Assyrian--Chaldean) community both inside Syria and throughout the global diaspora. For many, this is more than a technical enhancement--it is a symbolic and practical affirmation of indigenous identity, belonging, and cultural continuity. The decision follows a 2024 circular issued by the Co-Chairs of the Executive Council of Gozarto (Jazira) Canton requiring all administrative bodies, offices, and councils to use Assyrian, Kurdish, and Arabic in documents, signage, event materials, and public communications.

Academically, this development provides an important case study for researchers in linguistics, Middle Eastern governance, and cultural rights. The institutional use of Assyrian in an official digital platform contributes to the modernization and standardization of the language. It expands its contemporary vocabulary, strengthens its presence in online communication, and enhances its accessibility to younger generations who increasingly interact with the world through digital media. This level of exposure is essential for the survival of an ancient language that has endured centuries of cultural suppression and dispersion.

Culturally, the adoption of Assyrian by DAARNES reinforces recognition of the Assyrian people as one of the region's oldest and historically rooted communities. The language is not merely a tool of communication but a vessel carrying millennia of heritage, literature, liturgy, and collective memory. Seeing it represented on an official platform gives the community a sense of validation, dignity, and hope that their identity remains valued within the modern political landscape of Syria.

The decision by DAARNES to expand Assyrian-language use to its website demonstrates a genuine commitment to pluralism, coexistence, and cultural inclusion. It stands as an inspiring example of how modern administrations can support indigenous languages and ensure that they continue to thrive in both public institutions and digital environments.
President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday paid floral tributes at the statue of Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his birth anniversary, Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, at Prerna Sthal in the Parliament premises on Saturday. Vice President of India and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha CP Radhakrishnan; Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla; Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju; Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha Harivansh; Members of Parliament; former MPs; and other distinguished dignitaries paid floral tributes at the statue of Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his birth anniversary, Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, at Prerna Sthal in the Parliament premises today. Earlier, Birla in a message on X wrote, "Humble tributes on the 150th birth anniversary of the unparalleled freedom fighter and eternal symbol of tribal identity and self-respect, Dharti Aaba Bhagwan Birsa Munda Ji, and heartfelt wishes to all citizens on Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas." Despite limited resources, the courageous struggle he led for the rights to water, forest, and land emerged as a blazing revolution against foreign rule, spreading the consciousness of freedom across the entire nation. As the voice of the oppressed, marginalized, and tribal communities, Birsa Munda Ji ignited the flame of nationalism, self-respect, and justice in countless youth through his unwavering resolve, sacrifice, and exceptional leadership. His life will forever remain a source of inspiration in the collective memory of the nation, showing us the path of steadfast duty, social justice, and cultural dignity." Birsa Munda, who led the Ulgulan (Revolution) against British rule, became a powerful symbol of resistance. His visionary leadership ignited a national awakening, and his legacy continues to be deeply revered by tribal communities across India. Since 2021, November 15 has been observed as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas to honour the sacrifices of tribal freedom fighters. Tribal communities played a crucial role in India's freedom struggle, contributing through numerous revolutionary movements. This day celebrates their rich history, culture, and heritage, with nationwide events aimed at fostering unity, pride, and recognition of their significant contributions to India's freedom and progress. As part of the celebrations, tribal folk artists from various states performed at Prerna Sthal on the Parliament premises, welcoming the dignitaries. (ANI)
Jammu Police apprehended three Irrigation Department employees in connection with the Miran Sahib burning case, in which the victim was found burning in open fields near Ring Road, Prithvipur, under the jurisdiction of Miran Sahib Police Station. According to the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) in Jammu, the deceased was a government employee in the Irrigation Department, serving as a helper in the Tube Well Irrigation section. The police took cognisance of the incident by registering FIR 109/2025 under the relevant sections of the law at the Miran Sahib Police Station. During the investigation, CCTV footage was obtained from cameras along the route taken by the deceased, Puran Chand, while he was riding his motorcycle. The footage shows Chand arriving at RG Filling Station in Thikrian, R.S. Pura, where he filled a plastic container with petrol. After refuelling, he proceeded towards Miran Sahib. Based on circumstantial, technical, and scientific evidence, the investigation suggests that the deceased may have taken an extreme step due to ongoing mental harassment. This harassment allegedly involved the withholding of his salary for the past few months by some senior officials at his office. As part of the investigation, three employees from the Irrigation Department were detained. They have been identified as Surjeet Kumar, the Incharge Ziladar in the Irrigation Department; Girdhari Lal, the Amin in the Irrigation Department; and Ram Murti, the Incharge Ziladar in the Department. Further investigation is underway. (ANI)
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Sarbananda Sonowal conferred the 'Sons of the Soil Emerging Achievers Award' to five young talents from Assam at the 5th Biennial Son of the Soil Awards Assam 2025, hosted by Care Luit at Tezpur in Assam's Sonitpur district on Saturday. The event celebrated outstanding contributions across diverse fields and honoured individuals who reflect Assam's evolving potential and rising profile in India's development journey. The Emerging Achievers Award was presented to Sukrita Baruah (Media & Communication), Sanghamitra Kalita (Entrepreneurship), Isharani Baruah (Sports), Himjyoti Talukdar (Art & Culture) and Dr. Debjani Borah (Conservation). These awardees were recognised for demonstrating excellence, dedication and innovation in their respective fields. Speaking at the ceremony, Sarbananda Sonowal said the award represents the powerful spirit of aspiration that drives the youth of Assam. "The spirit of excellence and resilience has always defined the people of Assam. These young achievers represent the aspirations of a progressive and confident generation committed to contributing to nation-building. Their success is a testament to what determination, courage and disciplined effort can achieve," Sonowal said. Calling upon the youth of Assam and the Northeast to draw inspiration from the award recipients, Sarbananda Sonowal added, "Each of today's awardees has shown what is possible when one believes in their dreams and works tirelessly. I urge the youth of Assam to let their achievements ignite motivation and hope. Let us take inspiration from their discipline and perseverance and channel it into building a strong, capable and self-reliant society." The Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal further linked this spirit of progress to the national vision under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating, "Our dynamic Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji has given the nation a guiding philosophy -- 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas'. This vision reminds us that development is meaningful only when everyone participates and benefits. It is through collective effort, trust, unity and shared progress that India today stands proudly as one of the world's leading economies. I call upon every young citizen to take this message to heart and contribute with integrity, talent and hard work for the service of our great nation." Sarbananda Sonowal also honoured the recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Awards -- Arun Nath (Art & Culture), Ravi Shankar Ravi (News-Media), Mainuddin Ahmed (Sports), Lakhimi Baruah (Entrepreneurship) and Simanta Das (Public Service) -- recognising their enduring contributions and leadership that shaped generations. Instituted in 2016, the Son of the Soil Awards organised by Care Luit celebrate individuals and organisations whose dedication, innovation and service reflect the pride and heritage of Assam. Sonowal commended the initiative for fostering inspiration and strengthening identity. "Recognising excellence inspires more excellence. Such recognition builds confidence and creates a culture of aspiration that empowers the next generation to dream big and achieve bigger," Sarbananda Sonowal said. Sonowal reaffirmed commitment to supporting talent development and strengthening Assam's role in national progress. "With collective effort and vision, Assam will continue to rise. Together we will build a stronger India," he said. (ANI)
A woman in Mandi district was attacked with acid and pushed off the first floor of her house by her husband, police said on Saturday. The accused has been detained, police said. Speaking to ANI, ASP Mandi Abhimanyu Verma said, "Some time ago, we got information that a woman, Mamta Devi, had been attacked with acid by her husband, and he even pushed her off the first floor of their house. Based on this information, we reached the hospital where she is undergoing treatment. We have detained the accused husband." Further investigation is underway. Meanwhile, in a separate incident in Delhi, police have arrested Aqeel Khan - currently lodged in Tihar Jail in a rape case, for allegedly conspiring to stage an acid 'attack' on his 20-year-old daughter. According to Delhi Police, the 'attack' was staged to frame the husband of a woman and the sons of another woman who had filed rape and acid attack complaints against Khan. The Delhi Police said in a statement, "Aqeel was arrested two days ago by the Bhalswa Dairy police station on rape charges. He was then sent to judicial custody in Tihar Jail. Today, after obtaining permission from the court, the Bharat Nagar police station in the North West district went to Tihar Jail for questioning him. Subsequently, it arrested him after claiming substantial evidence." Special Commissioner of Police (Law & Order) Ravinder Yadav said inconsistencies in the daughter's complaint raised suspicion. He told ANI, "As soon as we got to know there was an attack, we registered the case. During the probe, we found some inconsistencies. We found that the story was fabricated. The CCTV footage we reviewed showed that the accused person was not at the scene." He added, "Then, we found that the girl's father had a case registered against him of molestation and assault. To trap the complainant's husband, this was done." Police said CCTV footage and call records confirmed that one of the alleged attackers, Jitender - the husband of the woman who had accused Khan of rape and blackmail - was nowhere near the crime scene. Investigators later found that no acid had been thrown during the incident. The woman had allegedly poured toilet cleaner from her home on her own hands before filing a false case, police added. (ANI)
Reacting to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's meeting with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said he was unaware of the meeting. Speaking to reporters, Karnataka Deputy CM said, "I don't know about the CM's meeting with Rahul Gandhi. I don't know about a cabinet reshuffle discussion... I don't know whether I'll meet (Rahul Gandhi) on Sunday or not." Amid heightened curiosity over possible changes in the Karnataka leadership, Shivakumar said, "If you want to ask anything about a reshuffling of leadership change issues, speak to CM. We have to follow what the party says." Shivakumar added, "The CM has every right to meet Mallikarjun Kharge, the Home Minister or the PM. What's wrong with that?" Earlier today, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said that he met with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, but their discussion was limited to the Bihar elections, with no mention of a Cabinet reshuffle. He further added that he plans to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, provided he receives an appointment. Speaking to reporters, Karnataka CM said, "Yes, I met Rahul Gandhi. We only discussed the Bihar election. He's our leader, so we encouraged him after a setback in the Bihar election. He said he's not worried about it. We have told him not to lose his spirit. There was no discussion about a cabinet reshuffle at all. I will meet the PM on Monday if I get an appointment." In October, terming Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's word as final, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar had said that he would go by what the CM says amid speculation about the change in the leadership and a Cabinet reshuffle in the state government. "What is left to be said after the CM's statement? We follow his word," Shivakumar told reporters when asked about CM Siddaramaiah's statement that he would complete the full term as CM if the Congress High Command agrees. (ANI)
Union Minister of State for the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology Jitin Prasada inaugurated the Digital India Pavilion at the 44th India International Trade Fair. The Digital India Pavilion showcases India's digital ecosystem transformation journey, delivering secure and inclusive digital public services. On display, at the Pavilion Hall Number 6, are impactful e-governance initiatives such as DigiLocker, UMANG, myScheme, NIXI, NIELIT, Cert-In, India Semiconductor Mission (ISM), and Aadhaar. These exhibits and installations highlight how the Digital India initiative is fostering transparency, inclusivity, and digital empowerment, true to this year's IITF theme "Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat". At the exhibition, visitors will be able to experience live and immersive demonstrations of schemes under the Ministry of Electronics & IT over the next two weeks. The exhibits are on the following key initiatives under the Digital India Programme: UMANG App provides access to over 210+ Central and State Government departments, reducing the need for citizens to visit multiple government websites or offices. Available in 23 languages, the App has integrated 2132+ eGovernance services and has more than 9.63 crore registered users. The displays will help visitors familiarise themselves with the application and services it hosts. DigiLocker is a cloud-based platform allowing citizens to store key personal records such as Aadhaar, PAN, driving licenses, academic records, and other government-issued certificates. DigiLocker has 2,234 issuers, 2,944 requesters, and 60.79 crore registered users. The exhibit shows how the platform can offer a secure and paperless experience. MyScheme is a one-stop government scheme platform, hosting more than 4,000 Schemes across Central and State/UT governments. The display will enable citizens to explore personalised scheme discovery, determine their eligibility, and access scheme information with ease. The stall features dedicated support for user queries, AI-driven myScheme Assistant, and QR-based digital on-boarding. (ANI)
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has strongly condemned the smuggling of Red Sanders, a highly valued and endangered species of tree found in the Seshachalam Forest. In a post on X, Kalyan described the forest as the "sacred abode of Lord Balaji" and accused those involved in the smuggling of committing a "heinous crime" against the nation, economy, faith, and environment. Kalyan highlighted the spiritual significance of the Red Sanders tree, citing its connection to Lord Venkateswara. He expressed outrage over the scale of smuggling, revealing that 2.6 lakh logs, estimated to be from 1.3 lakh mother trees, had been seized and valued at 2,000-5,000 crore. The State Deputy Chief Minister emphasised that cutting a Red Sanders tree is not only a forestry crime but also a spiritual desecration. "We speak of the Red Sanders tree. This incredible wealth, this Rakta Chandanam, is found nowhere else on Earth. It is a unique treasure, and it carries the spiritual weight of our people. Legends say it emerged from the divine blood of Lord Venkateswara himself! To cut this tree is not just a forestry crime--it is a spiritual desecration!," said Kalyan. The Deputy CM questioned how smugglers could operate with such impunity and pointed to systemic failure and lack of political will in the past. He assured that the coalition government would take strict action against those involved, including seizing their assets under the Forest Act. A special operation, similar to 'Operation Kagar,' also known as 'Operation Black Forest' would be launched to wipe out the smugglers and protect the Red Sanders trees. In a landmark achievement in the battle to eliminate Naxalism, the security forces, under 'Operation Black Forest', had neutralised 27 dreaded Maoists, including Nambala Keshav Rao, alias Basavaraju, the general secretary of CPI-Maoist, in an operation in Narayanpur, Chhattisgarh. The Home Minister had applauded the brave security forces and agencies for this major breakthrough. Kalyan emphasised that the Red Sanders is not just a tree, but a life that feels and a national wealth that needs to be protected. He assured that the government would take all necessary steps to preserve the ecological balance and protect the sacred forest "Our coalition government will not tolerate the smuggling of Red Sanders any longer. We are identifying the smugglers, kingpins and all culprits involved. We will not just arrest them; we will seize their assets under the Forest Act! A special, full-fledged operation, similar to the Centre's 'Operation Kagar,' to wipe out every single individual involved in this illegal trade shall be initiated soon. We will ensure fear among the smugglers so that no one, no one, dares to touch a single Red Sanders tree again. The Red Sanders is a life that feels, it is our national wealth, and it is sacred. We are watching, and we will protect the wealth of our nation and the divine sanctity of Seshachalam!" said Kalyan. https://x.com/PawanKalyan/status/1989676571427541248 Meanwhile, the National Biodiversity Authority has disbursed Rs 3.00 crore to 199 beneficiaries, covering 198 farmers from Andhra Pradesh and cultivators of Red Sanders (Pterocarpus santalinus), along with one academic institution, the University of Andhra. According to an official statement from the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, the disbursement, facilitated through the Andhra Pradesh State Biodiversity Board, is part of the Access and Benefit-Sharing mechanism under the Biological Diversity Act. (ANI)
Senior Congress leader Karan Singh on Saturday praised author Arvind Yadav for his "courage" in writing a comprehensive Hindi biography of the 14th Dalai Lama, calling it a courageous and long-awaited contribution to Hindi literature. While speaking to reporters, Singh said, "Arvind Yadav has shown great courage by writing his entire biography in Hindi. He has been working on this for many years, and today I am very happy that it has been completed." He further wished for a long and healthy life of Dalai Lama. "I would like this book to reach all Hindi libraries so that people can read it and learn more about him... I would like him to remain healthy for many years, and his message of compassion, peace, and non-violence is spread in our country," he added. The 14th Dalai Lama was born to a small farming family of Tibet's Takster on July 6, 1935. He was named Lhamo Thondup, which literally means 'Wish-Fulfilling Goddess', according to Dalai Lama's website. At the age of two, the boy Lhamo Dhondup was recognised as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama. In October 1939, he was brought to Lhasa and was formally installed as the head of the state of Tibet on February 22, 1940. At the age of six, Lhamo Dhondup was given the name Tenzin Gyatso. On November 17, 1950, the Dalai Lama was officially enthroned as the temporal leader of Tibet in a ceremony held at the Norbulingka Palace. In March 1959, after the suppression of the Tibetan National Uprising, the Dalai Lama was forced to escape into exile in India with over 80,000 refugees. For the past 60 years, the Dalai Lama has been working for the promotion of peace, love, and compassion. (ANI)
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Saturday launched a major state-wide anti-drug campaign against synthetic narcotics, especially chitta (heroin), by flagging off a 3-km walkathon at Shimla's Ridge. The initiative marks the beginning of what the government is calling a "people's movement" to eradicate drugs from the state. Sukhu said the government and police would work jointly to mobilise communities across Himachal Pradesh. "We have today launched a people's movement... We must remove chitta and build a new drug-free Himachal... In the coming months, strict action will be taken against drug peddlers," he said He added that the campaign would be expanded to all districts. "Every person in society must join this movement... You will soon see tough steps to eliminate chitta," he said. Himachal Pradesh DGP Ashok Tiwari said the CM's direction was a clear message for a collective fight against synthetic drugs. "The Chief Minister has given a clear message that we must fight chitta across the state... This cannot be fought by the police or government alone," he said. He added, "This is a message for the entire country that Himachal has united against chitta," said Tiwari. Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani said protecting the youth from drugs was a top priority. "The government's priority is to keep youth away from drugs... We want to sensitise young people and parents," he said. He also warned about cross-border drug trafficking. "Chitta and heroin enter India by crossing international borders... We must act as a shield for our youth," said Dharmani. Students and young participants joined the walkathon in large numbers. Kashish Sharma, one of the participants, said families were being devastated by drug abuse. "Many families in Himachal are losing their children because of chitta... I urge youth not to use drugs and to spend time with their families," said a girl participant. Participant Vedansh Thakur termed the initiative an important step. "This is a very good initiative... Students are the future and must be kept away from drugs," he said. He noted the rising cases of drug abuse. "Chitta cases are increasing every day in Himachal... We see two to three cases daily," said another participant Another participant, Pradik Dutta, said the campaign sends a strong message against heroin abuse. "Chitta is a poison... We are here to spread awareness," he said. Referring to recent incidents, he added, "These cases show how deeply drugs are affecting society... We must stop this menace," said Dutta. Officials said more district-level and grassroots programmes will follow as part of the intensified anti-drug drive. (ANI)
The General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said on Saturday that Ukrainian troops have engaged in 256 "combat clashes" with invading Russian troops, Al Jazeera reported. Over 100 of those gun battles took place in eastern Ukraine's Pokrovsk, which Russia views as a gateway to the remaining unoccupied parts of Donetsk. Significant fighting also took place around Slovyansk, Lymanske, Kostyantynivka, Oleksandrivka and Hulyaipole, it added, as per Al Jazeera. https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1989438028755140694?s=20 The Russian Defence Ministry has accused Ukraine of hitting civilian facilities and claimed its deadly overnight strike on Kyiv and elsewhere came in response to that. More than 60 Ukrainian drones were intercepted over the southern Krasnodar region that borders Crimea, according to the ministry. A total of 45 drones were destroyed over the Saratov region, deeper inside Russia, while another 19 were shot down over Crimea. In Novorossiysk, a port city in the Krasnodar region, the attack damaged an oil depot at the Sheskharis transhipment complex, as well as unidentified "coastal structures," local authorities said. According to Al Jazeera's sources, Sheskharis is one of the largest oil loading complexes for the transhipment of oil and oil products in the south of Russia. Falling drone debris also damaged a civilian vessel in the port, and three crew members were hospitalised with injuries. Several residential buildings were also damaged, and a man from one of those buildings was hospitalised with injuries, officials said, as reported by Al Jazeera. North Korean troops who helped Russia repel a major Ukrainian incursion into its western Kursk region are now playing an important role in clearing the area of mines. Russian military news outlet Krasnaya Zvezda reported Russian and North Korean soldiers are dealing with a "previously unseen density" of anti-tank and anti-personnel mines left behind by Ukrainian forces in Kursk. It said many of the devices were manufactured by NATO countries, as per Al Jazeera. Video published by the Russian Defence Ministry showed North Korean troops being shown different types of mines and detection equipment, taking part in training exercises, and singing patriotic songs. "They're great lads, they learn quickly, listen attentively and take notes," said a Russian commander with the call sign "Veles". Russia's Defence Ministry say under a mutual defence pact between the two countries, North Korea last year sent some 14,000 soldiers to fight alongside Russia in Kursk, and more than 6,000 were killed, as per Al Jazeera. (ANI)
Mark Wahlberg has called horse riding a "dangerous sport" after his daughter was injured during an equestrian competition.

Mark Wahlberg's daughter suffered an injury at an equestrian event

The 54-year-old actor's daughter Grace, 15 - who he has with his wife Rhea Durham - was rushed to hospital with a broken collarbone after getting hurt during a competition earlier this month and The Departed star is shocked by the amount of risk involved.

Asked about Grace's condition, Mark told Today: "She's good. She's just angry that she's not allowed to be back on the horse yet. She does have to take the time to recover. She broke her collarbone. She was rushed off to the hospital in an ambulance.

"(Horse riding is) the most dangerous, nerve-wracking sport that I've ever watched and witnessed. But she loves it."

Mark - who also has children Ella, 22, Michael, 19, and Brendan, 17, with Rhea - praised his youngest child for being "so dedicated" to horse riding.

He said: "She has the discipline at 15 that it took me into my 40s to get. You think I get up early and do things to prepare? I mean, she's a machine.

"She was just worried that we would be too concerned because of the dangers that we wouldn't let her ride again, but she's passionate about it so we have to let her pursue that."

Wahlberg had previously thanked everybody who had wished Grace a speedy recovery after the incident.

The Boogie Nights star said: "It's very, very scary, and I thank everybody for their support and well wishes."

Mark revealed recently that he has been striving for a healthy work-life balance between his acting career and family commitments.

Speaking to Us Weekly, he explained: "For me, everything I do now, its for my kids. Its for their future."

Mark was even joined by his family in Australia during the making of heist thriller film Play Dirty.

The movie star said: "I try to find that balance. They came to Australia while I was making this movie to visit."

Despite this, Wahlberg still remains ambitious about his movie career.

The Family Plan 2 actor has already achieved lots of success, but he remains keen to "fulfill [his] creative endeavours".

He explained: "[Im] trying to find that balance of spending quality time with them, and then also being able to fulfill my creative endeavours."
MEA Secretary (CPV and OIA), Arun Kumar Chatterjee, participated in the programme to welcome newly accredited and to bid farewell to departing Heads of Mission. The programme was hosted by Alem Tsehaye Woldemariam, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps. In a post on X, the Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal said, "Secretary [CPV & OIA], Ministry of External Affairs, Mr. Arun Kumar Chatterjee participated in the programme hosted by Mr. Alem Tsehaye Woldemariam, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Delhi, to welcome newly accredited and to bid farewell to departing Heads of Mission. The gathering provided a valuable opportunity for fraternity, friendship and also emphasised the importance of dialogue and diplomatic cooperation." https://x.com/MEAIndia/status/1989238975035547956?s=20 Arun Kumar Chatterjee belongs to the 1992 batch of the Indian Foreign Service. Previously, he has served as Ambassador in Embassy of India, Bishkek, in the Kyrgyz Republic from August 2022 to August 2024; Counsellor in Embassy of India, Seoul, in the Republic of Korea from February 2006 to July 2007; First Secretary/ Counsellor in Permanent Mission of India (PMI), Geneva from December 2002 to December 2005; and as Third / Second Secretary in Embassy of India, Almaty, in Kazakhstan from May 1994 to September 1998. In the Ministry of External Affairs, Chatterjee has worked as Under Secretary/ Deputy Secretary (East Europe), Director (Finance), Director/ Joint Secretary (CNV & I) and Chief Vigilance Officer of the Ministry of External Affairs and Joint/ Additional Secretary (Passport Seva Project) and Chief Passport Officer from April 2016 to November 2020. Shri Chatterjee served as Additional Secretary (Administration) and Dean, Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS) between November 2020 and July 2022. Born on 17 December 1965, Chatterjee holds Ma aster's Degree in Commerce and is a Graduate from the Institute of Cost Accountants of India. He served as Junior Manager in Durgapur Steel Plant, Steel Authority of India Limited, from 1989 to 1992, prior to joining the Indian Foreign Service. His Compulsory Foreign Language is Kazakh, and he also has working knowledge of Russian and French. (ANI)
Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal held talks with Antonio Grispos, Secretary of State for Trade, Mozambique on bilateral trade. The two met on the sidelines of CII Partnership Summit 2025. In a post on X, Goyal said, "Met with Mr. Antonio Grispos, Secretary of State for Trade, Mozambique. Discussed further avenues to increase bilateral trade and cooperation between our two nations." https://x.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1989372902228250852?s=20 Andhra Pradesh was placed at the centre of India's next phase of growth as business leaders announced concrete plans for finance, skills and healthcare at the CII Partnership Summit 2025 in Vizag. Sanjiv Bajaj, CMD of Bajaj Finserv, said the state was "not just a state, it is a strategic growth engine for India," pointing to its coastline, infrastructure and governance as a gateway "for trade, for technology and digital and tech innovation." He said a modern and inclusive financial system must keep pace with this growth and added that Bajaj Finserv looked forward to enabling "every Andhraite in their own journey." He stated the company hoped "to cover over 30 lakh Andhraites, individuals, small businesses... disbursing over Rs15,000 crore just in this year alone, only in Andhra Pradesh. "He also spoke of skilling, noting that the Rahul Bajaj Centre of Excellence in Skilling had set up skilling and career counselling centres "not only in Amravati, but in Vijayawada, in Vishakhapatnam, in Tirupati, in Sri City," with plans for Rajahmundry and other locations. Healthcare leaders underlined the same theme. Shobana Kamineni, Promoter, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise, said Andhra Pradesh was "a land of opportunity," adding that "today, Andhra Pradesh is not just competing, it's leading," across renewable energy, IT, manufacturing and healthcare. She highlighted the state's work on health indicators, medical education and rural technology outreach, and said Apollo was building a full "healthcare ecosystem." She said Apollo had a large presence in cities including Vizag, Tirupati, Vijayawada and Chittoor, supported by digital platforms and district outreach, with "almost 21,000 people" working in the Apollo family for the state. She said the telemedicine program had done "over 20 million teleconsultations" and would scale further. (ANI)
US President Donald Trump said on Friday (local time) that he will ask Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's ties to many other high-profile figures, in an extraordinary step that comes just days after Democrats released emails from the late Epstein that mention him. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said that Democrats were using the 'Epstein Hoax' to deflect people's attention from the shutdown. https://x.com/AGPamBondi/status/1989411168067440722?s=20 "Thank you, Mr. President," she wrote in a post on X that included a screenshot of Trump's request. Bondi later on Friday confirmed she would launch the investigation on Trump's orders, assigning Jay Clayton, the top prosecutor in New York's southern district, to lead the federal probe, CNN reported. For years, Trump has sought to downplay his ties to Jeffrey Epstein, the financier and convicted sex offender who for years moved in the same social circles as Trump in Palm Beach and Manhattan, as per CNN. Trump has alternately called Epstein a "terrific guy" in 2002 and later insisted he was "not a fan," saying the two men had a falling out long before Epstein faced his most serious legal troubles. But a new batch of emails from Epstein's estate, released this week by the House Oversight Committee, adds fresh detail to a relationship that has long been scrutinised. Earlier this year, after Bondi ordered the FBI to review Epstein files for release, Justice and FBI officials conducted another assessment and determined there were no additional prosecutions that could be brought based on the evidence at hand, according to law enforcement officials, as per CNN. The newly released messages do not highlight any new angle into Trump-Epstein relations, but bring to the fore new angles. Epstein's claim that Trump "spent hours" with a trafficking and rape victim inside his home, who House Republicans on Wednesday identified as the late Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein's most prominent victims. Giuffre died by suicide in April. She never implicated Trump in any wrongdoing in her book or public comments. Epstein was referring to Trump in the 2011 email with his longtime associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, who was convicted of sex trafficking after Epstein's 2019 death. Epstein's assertion that Trump "knew about the girls" - seemingly in reference to Trump's claim that he kicked Epstein out of his Mar-a-Lago club for poaching young women who worked there. Epstein's blunt private assessments of Trump during his first term as President. "I told everyone from day one. evil beyond belief, mad," Epstein wrote of Trump in March 2018. "he feels alone. and is nuts!!!" (ANI)
At least three people died in Stockholm after a double-decker bus veered off the road and crashed into a bus stop on Friday (local time), local police said, Deutsche Welle reported. According to police, three people were injured in the crash, and two of them were taken to the hospital for further treatment, as per DW. Acting swiftly, local police arrested the driver soon after the accident on the orders of the public prosecutor on charges of manslaughter. The charge was later dropped after authorities said there was no sign that the crash was deliberate. DW reported that police later said there was "no indication that the incident was intentional" and that the "crime classification is causing death and causing bodily harm." The investigation has now been shifted to charges of causing death and causing bodily harm. Authorities have not yet shared details about the victims. The accident occurred around 3 pm on Valhallavagen, a major road near the Royal Institute of Technology. Emergency teams cordoned off the area as police, ambulance crews and rescue workers carried out operations at the site. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson reacted to the incident on X, saying his thoughts were with the victims and their families. He also urged people in the area to cooperate with emergency workers as they continue their work. He wrote in an X post, "I have received the tragic news that several people have lost their lives and been injured at a bus stop in central Stockholm. People who may have been on their way home to family, friends, or a quiet evening at home" https://x.com/SwedishPM/status/1989365122922336329 "We do not yet know the cause of this, but right now my thoughts are primarily with those who have been affected and their loved ones. Police, ambulance, and rescue services now have a very difficult and important job to do. I urge everyone to show consideration and understanding for their tasks, " he added. (ANI)
India's Ambassador to the United Nations, Parvathaneni Harish, addressed the UNSC, advocating for reforms to make the Council more representative and effective. He emphasised the need for transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, highlighting India's own contributions to UN peacekeeping. Speaking at the UNSC Open Debate on Working Methods on Friday, Harish said, "Security Council is central in the UN architecture, as the principal organ that is primarily tasked with the responsibility of maintenance of international peace and security. As a UN organ whose sphere of functions covers a range of areas, but membership limited to only 15 members, working methods of the Security Council are critical to its credibility, efficacy, efficiency and transparency. This gains particular salience in a world beset with multiple crises and facing numerous challenges." He highlighted that India seeks more transparent selection processes for subsidiary body chairs and pen-holderships. "Selection of Chairs of subsidiary bodies and pen-holderships needs to be carried out in a more transparent, objective and time bound manner. Chairs and pen-holderships are privileges that come with major responsibilities. Discussions in the Council on distribution of Chairs and pen-holderships must prevent Council members with vested interests from being accorded these privileges. Obvious and outright conflicts of interest can have no place in the Council." This comes at a time when Pakistan holds the vice-chair of the UNSC Counter-Terrorism Committee alongside France and Russia. Pakistan, currently serving as a non-permanent member for the 2025-2026 term, was also appointed in July as the Chair of the Taliban Sanctions Committee. India advocated for plain vanilla mandates, increased resources, and TCC/PCC input, with expansion of peacekeeping mandates matched by a proportionate increase in resources. "Peacekeeping is an important United Nations Security Council domain. As the largest cumulative troop contributor, India stresses on the need for factoring in the inputs of the TCCs and PCCs for better implementation of peacekeeping mandates. This must be a consultative exercise. Christmas tree mandates must be avoided, and peacekeeping missions must revert to having plain vanilla mandates," added Harish. The Indian envoy highlighted that the Council's outdated structure and procedures are starkly apparent. India is ready to contribute to reforms, but emphasised that piecemeal changes won't suffice. The Council must adapt to current geopolitical realities, ensuring representation for underrepresented regions. "I urge the Council to undertake necessary measures on this front to bring about sunset clauses. Matters on which the Council is seized are also to be reviewed from time to time on the basis of their relevance and utility," said the Indian envoy. "There must be greater transparency in the functioning of the subsidiary organs. A case in point is the manner in which listing requests are rejected. Unlike de-listing decisions, these are done in a rather obscure manner, with member states that are not on the Council not being privy to details. There must be greater coordination of the Council with other UN organs, particularly UNGA. A useful tool in this regard is the discussion of the annual United Nations Security Council report in GA. However, this must not be treated as a mere procedural exercise. The report must be more than a record of the Council proceedings and meetings during the year. India reiterates its call to make the annual United Nations Security Council report analytical in nature," he added. Harish supported Africa's inclusion in the permanent category, promoting equitable representation, echoing the aspirations of many UN member states, seeking a more inclusive and effective Security Council. "India would like to emphasize that addressing historical injustices to Africa in the Security Council, given the representation of three out of the ten non-permanent members from the region, is primarily through Africa's inclusion in the permanent category. Mere expansion of the non-permanent category would not only not result in meaningful reform but also fail to address historical injustices to Africa," he added. https://x.com/IndiaUNNewYork/status/1989469253259640966 He concluded that India is ready to support efforts to modernise, enhance, and make the Council more effective and reflective of current global realities. (ANI)
Chinese authorities have urged their nationals to avoid travelling to Japan for now, saying recent comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Taiwan have created security risks for Chinese citizens, NHK World reported. China's Foreign Ministry issued a late-night advisory on Friday, claiming that Takaichi's remarks had "damaged the atmosphere of mutual exchanges" and that the "lives and physical safety of Chinese nationals in Japan" could be at risk. It asked citizens already in Japan to remain alert to local security conditions. The move has triggered fresh concerns over tourism and exchange programmes between the two neighbours. Japan's National Tourism Organisation said 7.48 million Chinese travellers visited Japan between January and September this year, the highest number from any country or region, as per NHK World. The advisory came a day after China lodged a strong protest with Tokyo over Takaichi's statements on Taiwan. Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong summoned Japan's Ambassador Kenji Kanasugi, accusing the new prime minister of making "erroneous" and "provocative" remarks, Global Times reported. According to China's Foreign Ministry, Sun criticised Takaichi for suggesting earlier this month that a military emergency in the Taiwan Strait could threaten Japan's survival, a remark Beijing says hints at possible Japanese involvement in a Taiwan conflict. Sun said the comments were "extremely serious" in nature, violated the one-China principle and amounted to interference in China's internal affairs. He added that such statements "deeply hurt the feelings of the 1.4 billion Chinese people" and contravened the political documents that guide China-Japan relations. Beijing also noted that the year 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of both the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the restoration of Taiwan, warning Tokyo against actions it views as obstructing China's "national reunification." On Friday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Jian Lin reinforced China's long-held position."Taiwan is China's Taiwan. How to resolve the Taiwan question and achieve reunification is China's own affair, which doesn't tolerate any foreign interference," he said, adding that China "must and will achieve reunification." Prime Minister Takaichi had said earlier this month that a military emergency over Taiwan could be considered a situation threatening Japan's survival. This statement immediately heightened tensions with China, NHK World reported. (ANI)
China's tightening control over critical minerals has turned into one of the most debated issues at COP30 in Belem, as leading strategic affairs expert Jagannath Panda warned that the world's clean-energy transition cannot remain dependent on supplies controlled "overwhelmingly by a single authoritarian state." In a detailed piece published in Turkiye Today following his visit to the summit as an observer, Panda said that rare earths, lithium, copper and other minerals essential for renewable technologies have become "political instruments embedded in the strategic ambitions of the Communist Party of China (CPC)." Panda wrote that China's dominance, nearly 60 per cent of global rare earth production and around 90 per cent of refining capacity, gives Beijing the ability to "shape, indeed to weaponise, the pace and direction of global decarbonisation." According to him, this position was not created by market dynamics but by a long-term CPC strategy designed to secure mining zones, monopolise processing, link infrastructure with geopolitical influence and use export controls to pressure competitors. "These concerns permeate negotiation rooms, civil society events and expert panels across COP30," he observed. Panda highlighted the Tibetan Plateau as a key extraction frontier for Beijing, noting the presence of major lithium, copper, uranium and heavy rare earth deposits. A delegation led by Jagannath Panda, Head of SCSA-IPA, and joined by Senior Associate Fellow Richard Ghiasy, travelled to Brazil during the recently held COP30 in Belem and later held high-level discussions in Rio de Janeiro. As part of their project, "Whither Tibet in Climate Crisis Agenda", the delegation highlighted that the Tibetan Plateau--known as the world's "Third Pole"--is warming nearly three times faster than the global average, the release stated. While COP30 focused heavily on Amazon conservation, Indigenous rights, and sustainable development, the SCSA-IPA stressed that the Tibetan Plateau remains severely underrepresented, despite undergoing rapid glacial melt, permafrost loss, and destabilisation of river systems that affect nearly 2 billion people across South and Southeast Asia. He wrote that large-scale projects such as the Qulong copper mine and the Zabuye lithium lake are connected to extensive rail, hydropower and logistics networks that "serve dual purposes: accelerating mineral extraction and advancing Beijing's political and military consolidation of the plateau." He warned that the ecological consequences are "severe," pointing to soil erosion, glacier depletion, polluted rivers and risks to food and water security across Asia. The debate intensified this month after Beijing expanded its rare earth export restrictions. China added five new rare-earth metals to controls announced in April, bringing almost all 17 recognised rare-earth elements under tighter scrutiny. It also added dozens of refining technologies to its restricted list and imposed rules requiring approval for products containing even 0.1 per cent of certain Chinese-sourced minerals. China has barred the export of materials used in defence systems and said equipment linked to semiconductors and AI will need case-by-case clearance. Panda added that these measures form "a new layer of structural power," giving Beijing broad control over clean-tech supply chains and even military-related inputs. In his Turkiye Today analysis, Panda wrote that global climate goals are now directly threatened by China's "opaque, concentrated and politically leveraged" mineral networks. He said delegates in Belem increasingly agree that the world's green transition cannot remain tied to supply chains that Beijing can restrict at will. "The contradiction is stark," he wrote. "Global climate goals increasingly rely on minerals extracted from a region suffering profound ecological stress." (ANI)
Ukraine hit a major oil terminal in the Russian port city of Novorossiysk overnight, sparking a fire and damaging key infrastructure, even as deadly Russian strikes rained down on Kyiv, CNN reported. The depot, one of Russia's largest oil export facilities, was targeted by Ukrainian forces in an attack acknowledged by officials from both countries that highlights Kyiv's escalating efforts to target a key source of war revenue for Russia. Ukraine's General Staff said the strike damaged "valuable" infrastructure at both the port and the oil terminal, as well as a launcher from Russia's S-400 air defence system. Ukrainian weapons were used in the attack on Novorossiysk, including long-range Neptune missiles and various types of strike UAVs, the General Staff added. Earlier, President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine had fired its domestically produced long-range Neptune cruise missiles at Russian targets, though he did not specify the locations, as per CNN. "This is our entirely justified response to the ongoing Russian terror," Zelensky said in a social media post. Oleksandr Syrskyi, commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, said this week that Ukraine was "increasing the effectiveness" of the use of domestic long-range weapons, including Neptune and Flamingo missiles, as well as jet drones. Earlier, a source within the Security Service of Ukraine said forces struck the "second-largest oil export centre in Russia," damaging oil tankers, pipeline infrastructure and pumping stations, according to CNN. The operation ignited a "major" fire at the facility, which remained burning on Friday morning, according to the source, who added that anti-aircraft missile systems were also hit. The Russian governor of Krasnodar Krai, Veniamin Kondratiev, confirmed the strike on the Novorossiysk oil depot, claiming that fragments of downed Ukrainian drones had hit the oil depot. Kondratiev reported that at least four people were wounded as a result of Ukraine's attack on the port city, adding that at least four apartment buildings and two private homes had been damaged. A state of emergency has been declared there, he said. Russia's defence ministry said it intercepted a total of 216 Ukrainian drones overnight. At the same time, Kyiv endured another intense wave of Russian aerial attacks. Local authorities said at least seven people were killed and dozens were injured in the capital. Among the dead was a married couple, aged 71 and 73, according to Kyiv police. In southern Ukraine, two more people were killed Friday morning in a Russian strike on the Black Sea city of Chornomorsk, the head of the Odesa regional military administration said. (ANI)
Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi held a series of high-level engagements with Admiral Samuel J Paparo, Commander of the US Indo-Pacific command, and several other senior US navy officials. They held discussions to review the key pillars of the India-US defence cooperation, including strengthening maritime security and maritime cooperation, enhancing interoperability, and expanding avenues for operational engagements across the Indo-Pacific, the spokesperson of the Indian Navy shared on Saturday. In a post on X, it said, "During his ongoing official visit to the #UnitedStates, Adm Dinesh K Tripathi, #CNS, held a series of high-level engagements with Adm Samuel J Paparo, Commander @INDOPACOM; Adm Stephen T Koehler, Commander @USPacificFleet; and Lt Gen James F Glynn, Commander U.S. Marine Forces Pacific. @USMC Deliberations reviewed key pillars of - defence cooperation, including strengthening #MaritimeSecurity and #MaritimeCooperation, enhancing #Interoperability, and expanding avenues for operational engagements across the Indo-Pacific." The post further noted that the discussions also covered priority areas of mutual maritime interest, including deeper information sharing and maritime domain awareness, building on mechanisms like IPMDA and linkages with the Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region, safeguarding sea lines of communication and critical undersea infrastructure, coordinated responses for HADR and SAR missions, counter-piracy, and non-traditional security challenges, more complex and regular bilateral/multilateral exercises (including MALABAR, PASSEX, and CMF /MILAN frameworks) to refine joint warfighting, logistics, and sustainment, collaboration in emerging domains - unmanned systems, ISR, cyber, and space-enabled maritime operations - to bolster readiness and resilience at sea. "The interactions reaffirmed the enduring partnership between the #IndianNavy and @USNavy, as well as the growing synergy with U.S. Marine and joint forces - anchored in mutual trust, shared values, and a common commitment to a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based #IndoPacific", the post added. https://x.com/indiannavy/status/1989578929179693421?s=20 Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, on Wednesday embarked on an official visit to the United States aimed at further enhancing the longstanding maritime partnership between the Indian Navy and the United States Navy, as per an official release. According to the release, Admiral Tripathi will be in the US from November 12 to November 17, during which he is scheduled to hold discussions with senior officials of the US Department of War and meet top US naval leadership. The engagements will provide an opportunity to review ongoing maritime cooperation, strengthen operational-level linkages, and enhance mechanisms for information sharing and maritime domain awareness between the two navies. Admiral Tripathi will also interact with key naval institutions and operational commands of the US Navy, with discussions expected to focus on shared maritime priorities in the Indo-Pacific, collaboration within multilateral frameworks such as MILAN, and initiatives of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).The CNS's visit coincides with the multilateral naval exercise, Exercise Malabar 2025, a major Indo-Pacific maritime drill aimed at strengthening interoperability and coordination among the four partner nations--India, the US, Japan, and Australia--held in the West Pacific training area from November 10 to 18. India and the United States share a robust maritime partnership built on mutual trust and shared values. The visit by Admiral Tripathi underscores the Indian Navy's commitment to deepening cooperation with the US Navy in pursuit of a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific. (ANI)
Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, the Chief of the Naval Staff, held a series of high-level meetings with senior American military officials during his 5-day official visit to the United States. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation between the Indian and US navies at a time when both sides are working to strengthen security across the Indo-Pacific, as per Navy spokesperson. Admiral Tripathi met Admiral Samuel J Paparo, who heads the US Indo-Pacific Command, Admiral Stephen T Koehler, Commander of the US Pacific Fleet, and Lieutenant General James F Glynn, who leads the US Marine Forces Pacific. The meetings reviewed the main pillars of the India-US defence partnership, including maritime security, operational coordination and ways to improve interoperability between the two navies. https://x.com/indiannavy/status/1989578929179693421 The talks placed special emphasis on improving information-sharing and maritime domain awareness. Both sides discussed how platforms like the Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness initiative can be linked more closely with India's Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean Region. The two sides also examined ways to protect sea lines of communication and critical undersea infrastructure, which are becoming increasingly vulnerable amid rising tensions in the region. Strengthening cooperation on humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, search and rescue and counter-piracy operations also featured in the discussions. A major part of the engagement focused on expanding joint exercises. India and the US are expected to increase the complexity and frequency of drills such as MALABAR, PASSEX and those held under the MILAN and Combined Maritime Forces frameworks. These exercises aim to sharpen joint warfighting skills, logistics and sustainment. Admiral Tripathi and the US commanders also discussed deeper collaboration in new operational domains, including unmanned platforms, ISR capabilities, cyber operations and space-based maritime activities. According to officials, both sides see these areas as essential for improving readiness and resilience at sea First established as a bilateral India-US exercise in 1992, Exercise Malabar has since evolved into a key maritime activity of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), involving Australia, Japan, India, and the United States. Australia hosted the 2023 edition of the exercise. Though the Quad is not a military alliance, the exercise serves as a platform to strengthen maritime security and uphold freedom of navigation in the region. India and the United States share a robust maritime partnership built on mutual trust and shared values. The visit by Admiral Tripathi underscores the Indian Navy's commitment to deepening cooperation with the US Navy in pursuit of a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific. (ANI)
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are planning a trip to Australia.

Duke and Duchess of Sussex planning Australia visit

The couple  who quit as senior royals in 2020 and moved from the UK to California  have hinted that they are planning a return Down Under, to where they enjoyed a successful royal visit in 2018.

Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, shared in a letter to celebrity astrologer Angela Pearl  who they met with in New York in October  that they were considering a visit to Australia.

In a letter, written on stationery bearing their joint royal monogram, they wrote: Dear Angela, We wanted to thank you for joining us(redacted). Your energy and insight were such a welcome addition.

A section of the note was blacked out when Angela shared it to Instagram but the couple went on: On a separate note, we hope your family in Ukraine remain safe, and we look forward to staying in touch especially as we look to visit Australia again.

The letter was signed best wishes, with signatures from Harry, 41, and Meghan, 44.

In October 2018, Harry and Meghan embarked on a 16-day tour of Australia and New Zealand - their first major royal tour as a couple.

They announced during the trip that Meghan was expecting their first child, Prince Archie, now six.

The couple went on to welcome Princess Lilibet, four, in 2021.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating in the 8th edition of the bilateral air exercise 'Garuda 25' with the French Air and Space Force (FASF) at Mont-de-Marsan, France, from November 16-27, the Ministry of Defence shared in an official statement on Saturday. As per the Defence Ministry, the IAF contingent arrived in France on November 10, and will be participating with Su-30MKl fighter aircraft. The airlift support is being provided by the C-17 Globemaster III, for the induction and de-induction phases of the exercise, while the IL-78 air-to-air refuelling tankers are utilised for extending the range and endurance of the participating fighters. The statement mentioned that during the exercise, the IAF's Su-30MKI aircraft will operate alongside the French multirole fighters in complex simulated air combat scenarios, focusing on air-to-air combat, air defence, and joint strike operations. This exercise aims to refine tactics and procedures in a realistic operational environment, enabling mutual learning and fostering interoperability between the IAF and the FASF. Exercise Garuda 25 also provides an opportunity for professional interaction, exchange of operational knowledge, and sharing of best practices between the two Air Forces. Participation in this exercise underscores the lAF's commitment to engage constructively with friendly foreign Air Forces through multi-lateral exercises, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation in the field of air operations, the statement added. India and France have traditionally enjoyed close and friendly relations and share a deep and enduring Strategic Partnership (SP) covering all aspects of bilateral cooperation, which involves a strategic component. Launched on January 26, 1998, India's first-ever Strategic Partnership embodied the core vision of both countries to enhance their respective strategic independence by drawing upon a strong and enhanced bilateral cooperation. Defence and security, civil nuclear matters and space constitute the principal pillars of the strategic cooperation between India and France, which now includes a strong Indo-Pacific component. (ANI)
According to a report released by the Washington-based advocacy organisation International Campaign for Tibet (ICT), China is increasingly using the education system to instil loyalty to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) at the expense of Tibetan culture and language, as reported by Phayul.

According to Phayul, citing material from Chinese state media and local propaganda channels, the ICT report details how even even first-grade students in Tibet are being subjected to activities designed to instil early political loyalty to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) while eroding their cultural and linguistic identity.

One documented case from Medog County in southern Tibet shows uniformed personnel, including military veterans, introducing primary school students to army equipment.

Photos released by Chinese state outlets show an instructor displaying a QBZ-191 assault rifle, the standard-issue firearm of China's armed forces, before a group of elementary-level children.

ICT argued that the inclusion of such demonstrations in a school setting signals an attempt to normalise militarisation within Tibetan childhood education.

Another incident cited in the report involves fourth-grade students from Lhasa being taken to the Mao Badge Museum under the slogan "Pass on the red heritage and strengthen the sense of community of the Chinese nation."

The museum, dedicated to the glorification of Mao Zedong, houses extensive displays of Mao pins and exhibits promoting the CCP's revolutionary ideology. These "immersive political lessons" seek to ensure children "absorb red culture" and internalise official narratives at a formative age, as highlighted by Phayul.

ICT emphasised that such developments reflect a broader state agenda aimed at replacing Tibetan linguistic, cultural, and religious values with enforced political conformity.

The report warned that China's strategies are shaping a generation of Tibetan students who are expected to be politically obedient, nationalistic by CCP standards, and accustomed to the military figures in their education.

"These policies are designed to indoctrinate Tibetan youth, steer them toward future military service, and sever their connection to traditional heritage and family life," ICT stated. The group urged the international community to press China to halt practices that violate Tibetan children's cultural rights and expose them to coercive political conditioning, as reported by Phayul. (ANI)
The Indian High Commission in the UK celebrated the birth anniversary of freedom fighter Birsa Munda through a programme which featured a rich cultural line-up celebrating tribal traditions from across India. In a series of posts on X, the Indian High Commission shared that High Commissioner Doraiswami recalled Bhagwan Birsa Munda as both as the voice of a "nation rising and of Indian nationhood," and also as an early advocate for the stewardship of forests, air and water -- values long upheld by India's tribal communities. The celebration saw performances by the Sanskruti Centre for Cultural Excellence on the Koya traditions of Dandakaranya region of South India, United Assam Association UK, NRI Association of Chhattisgarh (NACHA), Jharkhand UK Connect, and Orissa Society UK, the High Commission shared on X. A children's poster-making competition and a group discussion in Hindi on key themes such as socio-economic development, education, livelihood and entrepreneurship were also held to mark the Janjatiya Gaurav Divas. "Last evening, @HCI_London commemorated the 150th birth anniversary of #BhagwanBirsaMunda and observed #JanjatiyaGauravDivas, honouring the legacy, pride, and resilience of India's tribal communities. The programme featured a rich cultural line-up celebrating tribal traditions from across the country," it said. https://x.com/HCI_London/status/1989353224974029080?s=20 "In his remarks, HC @VDoraiswami paid tribute to #BhagwanBirsaMunda, recalling him as both as the voice of a nation rising and of Indian nationhood, but also as an early advocate for the stewardship of our forests, air and water -- values long upheld by India's tribal communities." https://x.com/HCI_London/status/1989355724820861243?s=20 "Performances by the Sanskruti Centre for Cultural Excellence on the Koya traditions of Dandakaranya region of South India, United Assam Association UK, NRI Association of Chattisgarh (NACHA), Jharkhand UK Connect, and Orissa Society UK, transformed the evening into a journey across India's tribal heartlands -- with every beat and step reflecting a unique ancestral tradition and the many voices of India's tribal heritage." https://x.com/HCI_London/status/1989359593932169550?s=20 "A children's poster-making competition and a vibrant group discussion in Hindi on key themes -- from socio-economic development, education, livelihood and entrepreneurship to health, culture, and heritage, were also held to mark #JanjatiyaGauravVarsh." https://x.com/HCI_London/status/1989360987070140538?s=20 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to tribal freedom fighter and anti-colonialist tribal leader Birsa Munda on his 150th birth anniversary. He remembered the tribal leader for his unparalleled contribution to the country's freedom movement. Birsa Munda, who belonged to the Munda tribe, was born on November 15 in 1875. During British rule in the late 19th century, he spearheaded a tribal religious Millenarian movement across the tribal belt of modern-day Bihar and Jharkhand. His birth anniversary is celebrated as Birsa Munda Jayanti in the country and coincides with the Jharkhand Foundation Day. (ANI)
Dubai [UAE], November 15 (ANI/WAM): The ICOM Dubai 2025 Organising Committee handed over the ICOM flag to the city of Rotterdam, Netherlands, which will host the 28th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM 2028). The handover took place during the closing ceremony of the 27th General Conference of ICOM Dubai 2025, held under the patronage of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. This marked the first time the conference was hosted in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. The flag design draws inspiration from the intricate embroidery and artistry of the traditional Al Talli craft, reflecting local cultural identity, the nation's deep connection to its intangible heritage, and its commitment to preserving this legacy for future generations. The execution of the ICOM flag project involved a series of stages, starting with the production of individual Talli strips, followed by the creation of the ICOM logo and its meticulous attachment to the fabric. Each stage highlighted the precision and creativity of Emirati craftsmanship. Three copies of the flag were produced: one was handed over to the city of Rotterdam, Netherlands, while the second was archived in the ICOM archives, and the third was kept in Dubai, the host city of the current edition. A group of Emirati women artisans from different emirates contributed to weaving the flag in accordance with the traditional Talli craft, creating a distinctive artwork that embodies the beauty of local heritage and the precision of its inherited crafts. Their contributions also highlight the integral role Emirati craftsmanship plays in the nation's cultural identity. The flag was designed by Emirati artist Sara Al Khayyal, with support from Sandooq Al Watan, a contributing partner. The artwork harmoniously combines contemporary creativity with the traditional Talli weaving craft, a long-standing symbol of local heritage and Emirati women's skill. The initiative reflects Dubai's commitment to preserving traditional crafts and its living heritage, as well as celebrating its cultural value globally. The design highlights the ICOM logo in two shades of blue, woven using four traditional Talli stitches: Fanikh Al Batikh, Alberwi (or Almeshara), Alfin, and Alkouli. Showcasing the artisans' skill and the richness of the UAE's culture and heritage, these stitches help powerfully convey the conference theme, 'The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.' Through the harmony of these patterns, the artwork expresses unity in diversity. The exquisite craftwork highlights the role of culture as a bridge between peoples, a platform for future foresight, and a celebration of creativity. It is noteworthy that in 2022, the UAE succeeded in having the Talli craft inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list. This achievement reflects the nation's commitment to safeguarding its rich heritage, promoting it internationally, and ensuring the right environment for traditional industries to thrive. A traditional craft practised by women within Emirati households, Talli is one of the most prominent components of local cultural heritage passed down through generations. This manual craft is characterised by its fine metallic and silk threads, vibrant colours, and designs inspired by local elements. A genuine art form that reflects the identity and aesthetic values of Emirati society, Talli remains a living craft taught and passed on within families, schools, and cultural centres. The traditional craft continues to play a key role in bridging generations and preserving Emirati identity and creativity. (ANI/ WAM)
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan held detailed discussions with his France counterpart General Fabien Mandon to advance the India-France strategic defence partnership. The virtual interaction focused on ongoing initiatives and long-term cooperation aimed at strengthening bilateral defence ties. "Key focus areas included implementing Horizon 2047 vision, strengthening Joint Military Exercises, boosting defence industrial cooperation through Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives and collaborating on space capabilities & niche technologies," according to a statement issued by the Headquarters, Integrated Defence Staff. Both leaders also "reaffirmed their commitment to counter-terrorism efforts and enhancing Defence Cooperation for Indo-Pacific security," the statement added. https://x.com/HQ_IDS_India/status/1989609448311267610 The talks came at a time when India and France are engaging in multiple defence collaborations, including the ongoing 8th edition of the bilateral air exercise Garuda 25 in France. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating in the exercise with the French Air and Space Force (FASF) at Mont-de-Marsan, France, from November 16-27. As per the Defence Ministry, the IAF contingent arrived in France on November 10 and will be participating with Su-30MKl fighter aircraft. The airlift support is being provided by the C-17 Globemaster III for the induction and de-induction phases of the exercise, while the IL-78 air-to-air refuelling tankers are utilised for extending the range and endurance of the participating fighters. The statement mentioned that during the exercise, the IAF's Su-30MKI aircraft will operate alongside the French multirole fighters in complex simulated air combat scenarios, focusing on air-to-air combat, air defence, and joint strike operations. This exercise aims to refine tactics and procedures in a realistic operational environment, enabling mutual learning and fostering interoperability between the IAF and the FASF. Exercise Garuda 25 also provides an opportunity for professional interaction, exchange of operational knowledge, and sharing of best practices between the two Air Forces. Participation in this exercise underscores the lAF's commitment to engage constructively with friendly foreign Air Forces through multi-lateral exercises, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation in the field of air operations, the statement added. India and France have traditionally enjoyed close and friendly relations and share a deep and enduring Strategic Partnership (SP) covering all aspects of bilateral cooperation, which involves a strategic component. Launched on January 26, 1998, India's first-ever Strategic Partnership embodied the core vision of both countries to enhance their respective strategic independence by drawing upon a strong and enhanced bilateral cooperation. Defence and security, civil nuclear matters and space constitute the principal pillars of the strategic cooperation between India and France, which now includes a strong Indo-Pacific component. (ANI)
BEIJING, Nov 15 (News On Japan) - Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a travel advisory on November 14th, urging Chinese citizens to avoid visiting Japan for the time being, citing serious safety risks to Chinese nationals following Prime Minister Takaichis remarks on a potential Taiwan contingency.

According to an official statement posted on the ministrys social media account, Beijing called on its citizens to strictly refrain from traveling to Japan for the time being. The post claimed that public security in Japan has deteriorated this year, alleging an increase in crimes targeting Chinese nationals and incidents of Chinese citizens being assaulted.

The ministry further criticized Takaichis comment that a Taiwan emergency could be considered a situation threatening Japans survival, calling the remark provocative and saying it has seriously worsened the atmosphere of people-to-people exchanges between China and Japan, thereby posing significant safety risks to Chinese residents in Japan.

For Chinese citizens already in Japan, the statement advised heightened vigilance and awareness of local security conditions.

The move marks a further escalation of Chinas criticism toward Japan following Takaichis remarks and is widely seen as part of Beijings countermeasures amid growing diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

Source: TBS
As global interest in Formula One continues to surge, with the sports reach expanding rapidly across continents, enthusiasm for F1 is also returning in Japan, especially among younger fans on social media and at domestic motorsport events on the rise in recent years, and major Japanese companies including Toyota have begun strengthening their involvement as they look to secure a role in the sports next growth phase.
The Atlantic Sahara is called upon to become a strategic corridor of connectivity and opening-up between two continents, Africa and Europe thanks to the major energy projects launched under the impetus of King Mohammed VI.

The remarks were made by Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Leila Benali, in Dakhla on Friday, in a keynote address at the Maroc Diplomatique Sahara Forum, held under the theme The Atlantic Sahara, a corridor for opening up and connectivity between two continents.

Benali announced that Morocco is on the verge of the effective launch of its sovereign gas infrastructure. This infrastructure includes the Nador West Med gas import terminal as well as the gas pipelines intended to connect the North and Center of the country (Tangier, Kenitra, Mohammedia) to the major industrial and electricity hubs.

The official pointed out that this infrastructure will connect to the first phase of the Africa-Atlantic Gas Pipeline, formerly the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline, which was renamed last December by a joint decision of the concerned African ministers.

This gas pipeline is not a simple pipe: it is an instrument of economic and social integration between North Africa and West Africa, and a lever for regional opening up, she affirmed.

She also highlighted the development of the Morocco-Mauritania electrical interconnection, which will promote security of supply, electricity exchanges, and the creation of a structured regional energy market along the Atlantic corridor.

This dynamic is in addition to the strengthening of the Morocco-Spain, Morocco-Portugal, and Morocco-France interconnections, as well as the future North-South High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) lines, consolidating the Kingdoms position as a true energy corridor between Africa and Europe.

Benali also recalled the strategic role of the OTC (Origination, Transit, and Certification) corridor, which will be formalized on November 24 during the Morocco International Mining Congress.

Referring to the energy potential of the southern provinces, the minister stressed that they already have more than 1.5 GW of installed capacity in renewable energy, representing an investment exceeding 20 billion dirhams.

The current plan forecasts an additional 1.5 GW by 2030, requiring the construction, in less than five years, of capacities greater than those established during the last twenty years, she indicated.

The Moroccan Sahara will fully reclaim its millennial vocation as a crossroads of connectivity and exchange between the North and the South, from Tangier to Port Harcourt, serving shared and sustainable development, she affirmed.
Abdellatif Loudiyi, Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in charge of National Defense Administration, presented the 2026 defense budget to the parliamentary committee, confirming an increase in the countrys defense spending.

The increase keeps the strategic focus on modernization and building a domestic military industry, Moroccan media reported citing Loudiyis meeting with members of parliament.

The defense budget for 2026 stands at 73 billion dirhams, an increase of about 3.3 billion (roughly +5%).

This moderate rise reflects operational needs and previously contracted programs, Loudiyi said, adding that the share of defense spending in the overall state budget will slightly decline, from 4.5% in 2025 to 4% in 2026.

The 157 billion dirhams in anticipated commitments do not represent immediate spending. They are multi-year authorizations for long-term contracts, in line with defense acquisition cycles that often span a decade, he said.

Loudiyi also confirmed the implementation of Decree No. 2.23.925, which establishes two industrial acceleration zones dedicated to defense. These zones will be ready to host investors by the end of 2026.

Since the launch of this strategic roadmap, ten defense-related industrial projects have been authorized, representing $260 million in investment and creating over 2,500 direct jobs. These projects cover production, maintenance, assembly, and export capabilities.

These projects include the inauguration of the Tata Advanced Systems Morocco plant in Berrechid. The plant will produce WhAP 88 armored vehicles with a local integration rate of 35%, aiming for 50%.

In Benslimane a plant will be dedicated to maintenance for F-16 and C-130 aircraft, in partnership with Sabena Engineering, Lockheed Martin, and MedZ.

Morocco also aims to manufacture SPY-X drones at a unit by BlueBird, including technology transfer.

Turkish Baykar also plans to establish operations via Atlas Defense, reinforcing Moroccos drone sector.
The government of Mauritania has refused a request from the Algeria-backed Polisario militias to establish a consulate or embassy in Nouakchott, dealing another hard blow to the separatist group and its Algerian supporters, according to press reports.

Mauritania, which adopts a neutral position regarding the Sahara regional conflict, has always been cautious in its ties with Polisario. Although Nouakchott recognized the self-proclaimed SADR in 1984, this recognition remained purely symbolic and never evolved into effective diplomatic relations.

After the military coup of July 10, 1979 that ousted the first civilian Mauritanian president Moktar Ould Daddah, the junta had signed a peace agreement with the Polisario, withdrew from the Madrid Agreements of November 14, 1975, and pledged to establish diplomatic relations with pseudo-SADR. But the pledge remains unfulfilled.

Following the latest historic resolution adopted by UN Security Council endorsing Moroccos autonomy plan for the Sahara under the Kingdoms sovereignty, the Algerian regime has launched several desperate life-saving operations to rescue its crumbling Polisario after pursuing for five-decades an elusive dream.

The Algerian rulers tried initially to arrange a meeting between Polisario chief Brahim Ghali and Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani but they failed. They also tried in vain to secure a diplomatic status for the Polisario in Mauritania. After failing to rebound in Mauritania, Brahim Ghali was flown aboard an Algerian presidential plane to Angola to attend Independence Day celebration for face-saving before disgruntling public opinion.

According to intelligence reports, the Algerian regime is very likely to take vindictive actions against Mauritania which has so far resisted pressure to join its plots against Morocco, preferring instead engagement serving its national interests and focusing on regional cooperation and stability.
United States President Donald Trump is putting his money where his mouth is as he doubles down on efforts to accelerate the expansion of the countrys nuclear energy sector. The government will spend billions in public funding to reinvigorate U.S. nuclear power, following decades of underinvestment. Unlike renewable energy, Trump views nuclear power as key to expanding the U.S. electricity generation capacity and recently announced the target of quadrupling nuclear capacity by 2050.

In May, President Trump signed an executive order calling for the U.S. to develop 10 new large nuclear reactors by the end of the decade. In addition, several tech companies, including Alphabet, Amazon, Meta Platforms, and Microsoft, are providing billions in private funding to restart old nuclear plants, upgrade existing ones, and deploy new reactor technology to meet the growing demands from the data centres powering advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence.

The U.S. Department of Energys (DoE) loan office will dedicate significant funds to the nuclear energy industry to support the development of new reactors. This week, the Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated, We have significant lending authority at the loan programme office By far the biggest use of those dollars will be for nuclear power plants  to get those first plants built.

Wright expects the public support for the sector to encourage private actors to invest more heavily in nuclear power in the coming years. When we leave office three years and three months from now, I want to see hopefully dozens of nuclear plants under construction, said Wright.

In October, Trump came to an agreement with the owners of Westinghouse  uranium miner Cameco and Brookfield Asset Management  to invest $80 billion to build nuclear plants across the country. Westinghouse plans to construct large nuclear plants to be fitted with its modern AP1000 reactor design, which can power over 750,000 homes, according to the company. Cameco COO Grant Isaac suggested he would look to the DoEs loans office to fund the development of the Westinghouse reactors.

However, critics are not so certain that Westinghouse will be able to deliver on its promises due to the companys poor track record. The firm went bankrupt in 2017 after going over budget on large-scale nuclear projects in Georgia and South Carolina. Westinghouse will have to prove its ability to build the AP1000 on time and on budget to attract the investment it requires.

The Trump administration has developed various international partnerships to help develop its nuclear power sector in recent months. In September, Japan committed to investing in the Westinghouse nuclear project. The Asian country also agreed on an investment deal for Hitachi GE Vernova to build small modular reactors (SMRs).

Also in September, the U.S. signed a multibillion-dollar deal with the United Kingdom to expand nuclear power across both countries. The new Atlantic Partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy is aimed at accelerating the construction of new reactors and providing reliable, low-carbon energy for high-demand sectors, such as data centres.

The question now is, just how long will it take to achieve the U.S. nuclear renaissance? It typically takes a decade or longer to develop a new nuclear power plant, and while adding additional reactors to existing plants can be faster, licensing and approval can take several years. In addition, after decades of stagnation in the sector, developing nuclear reactors in the U.S. can be extremely costly and slow, due to the lack of expertise, compared to rapidly growing nuclear powers, such as China.

In China, developing a new nuclear reactor now takes between five and six years on average, much faster than the decade-long timeline in most Western countries. This is supported by Chinas strong regulatory system and tried-and-tested development methods. Meanwhile, in the U.S., just powering up a disused reactor, such as that of Three Mile Island, can take several years to achieve. The projects being funded by tech companies, which focus on the development of SMRs, are not expected to produce power until the next decade, and these are much smaller than conventional reactors.

The Trump administration hopes to speed up the development process through a range of measures. One executive order calls for the nuclear power industrys safety regulator to approve applications in no more than 18 months. The recent funding announcement from the DoEs loan office is expected to help overcome the biggest bottleneck  funding. Congress has also kept its tax breaks in place for nuclear development to attract private funding to the sector.

Thanks to greater political support and public financing, the U.S. nuclear energy sector could rapidly expand its power capacity over the coming decades. However, achieving the level of acceleration in nuclear development expected by the Trump administration is highly unlikely due to a range of challenges hindering development, from expertise to cost and manufacturing capacity. So, while a nuclear renaissance is possible, it is unlikely to be seen within the next decade.

By Felicity Bradstock for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Decades of mismanagement compounded by prolonged drought have pushed Iran to the brink of what experts call water bankruptcy.

With reservoirs running on empty and rainfall at a record low, the authorities have begun rationing water supplies in the Iranian capital, Tehran, a city of some 10 million people.

President Masud Pezeshkian has warned that the water crisis could lead to the evacuation of parts of Tehran and has gone as far as floating the possibility of moving the capital.

Kaveh Madani, director of the Canada-based United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment, and Health, said the warnings by the authorities didn't go far enough.

"The level of their warnings is too low compared to the reality on the ground," Madani, who previously served as deputy head of Iran's Department of Environment, told RFE/RL's Radio Farda.

"The government is being too cautious because it doesn't want to stress the public and upset people even more," he added.

Water bankruptcy is when consumption exceeds supply and the depletion of resources is irreversible. It is often driven by what experts say is misguided government policies intended to boost agriculture and development.

How Bad Is Iran's Water Crisis?

Iran is currently in the grips of the worst drought in some 60 years.

"If it doesn't rain, we'll have to start rationing water in [November]. If the lack of rainfall continues past that, we simply won't have water and will have to evacuate Tehran," Pezeshkian said earlier this month, though other officials have sought to downplay the need to move the capital.

Since last week, water supplies have been cut off in the evenings in Tehran. The authorities have also called on people to curb consumption during the day. Water rationing has not yet been reported in other parts of Iran.

The five main reservoirs supplying water to Tehran are at historically low levels, currently holding just 11 percent of overall capacity.

In Mashhad, Iran's second-largest city with 4 million residents, reservoirs have fallen below 3 percent capacity, with three of the four dams supplying the city now out of operation.

Nationwide, 19 major dams -- accounting for 10 percent of Iran's reservoirs -- have run completely dry, and more than 20 dams are holding under 5 percent of their capacity.

What's The Plan?

Iranian officials have not yet presented a concrete plan to tackle the emergency.

The authorities in Iran typically downplay crises to deflect blame and avoid spreading panic. But officials raising the possibility of evacuating Tehran has underscored the severity -- and the urgency -- of the situation.

Addressing the parliament earlier this week, Pezeshkian told his critics in the chamber that he will "give those who claim they can resolve the water problem full authority" to tackle the water shortage.

Compounding matters, Madani said, is the public's lack of trust in the authorities.

"Society is not aware of how terrible the situation is, and the government is scared of asking people to reduce consumption," he said.

Water shortages have repeatedly sparked protests across Iran in recent years, most notably in Khuzestan Province, where demonstrations in July 2021 were met with a deadly crackdown.

Short-term fixes exist, but experts say fundamental reforms and tough policy decisions are needed to avert a catastrophe.

Azam Bahrami, a sustainable development expert based in Italy, told Radio Farda there needs to be planning and an assessment on where water is wasted to fix the problem in the long term.

"We've wasted a lot of water trying to become self-sufficient in the production of many things," she said.

Iran reportedly produces 85 percent of its food needs domestically -- a self-sufficiency strategy driven by decades of international sanctions and aimed at reducing dependence on global grain markets.

But experts have been warning for years that Iran, which is largely arid, does not have the water resources to sustain it.

By RFE/RL

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
By No Tax Oregon,

Many of you are asking about signing locations. We just got approval to print sheets on Wednesday at 5 pm. We werent sure wed get approval by then. Petitions went out statewide on Thursday, and many counties got their copies the same day and started gathering signatures that morning. We are moving faster than planned to use this extra time. Until we had the sheets, we couldnt confirm signing locations for the weekend. Now that we have the sheets, volunteers across the state are securing signing locations. As soon as we have locations, we will let you know! Please follow me on X, Facebook, and Instagram, and follow NoTaxOr on X and Facebook. We will also update the NoTaxOr.com website with signing locations.

Keizer Chamber of Commerce

Mon-Fri 8 a.m.  5 p.m.

VFW Post #661, Salem

Nov. 20: 5 p.m.  7:30 p.m.

KSLM Radio, Salem

Mon, Wed, Fri: 10 a.m.  2 p.m.

Tues & Thurs: 11 a.m.  1 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 22: 10 a.m.  1 p.m.

3530 River Rd. N, Keizer

Sunday, Nov. 23: 9 a.m.  1 p.m.

Santiam Christian School (West Gym), Adair Village

Pages & Pastries booth Saturday, Nov. 15: 9 a.m.  3 p.m.

Stayton Ace Hardware, Stayton

Saturday, Nov. 15 and 22: 10 a.m.  2 p.m.

The Picken Coop, Stayton

Saturday, Nov. 15: 3 p.m.  6 p.m.

Scio Hardware Store, Scio

Saturday, Nov. 15: 11 a.m.  2 p.m.

Hoys Hardware, Sweet Home

Friday, Nov. 14: 8:30 a.m.  6 p.m.

Reptopia, Albany

Saturday, Nov. 15: 12 p.m.  6 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 16: 12 p.m.  4 p.m.

Pops Branding Iron Restaurant, Albany

Starting Monday

Farmers Market, Downtown Albany (booth on 4th and Broadalbin)

Saturday: 8:30 a.m.  1 p.m.

Beloved Cheesecakes, Albany

TuesdayThursday: 10 a.m.  6 p.m.

Friday & Saturday: 10 a.m.  7 p.m.

Storm Coffee, Turner

During business hours

Across from Mill Creek Heating, Turner

Fridays and Saturdays only

Pratum Co-op Gas Station (Ball Brothers Building), Turner

Gillys Garage, Aumsville

All Good Things Cafe & Eatery, Aumsville

Also note:
Prime Bangtao Location  The Trees Residence by Anocha Opens First Pre-Sale Day, A New Investment Destination for Phukets High Season, Starting from THB 4.03 Million

Phuket, Thailand  On 14 November 2025 at 5:30 PM, The Trees Residence by Anocha officially opened its first pre-sale event at the projects Sales Gallery, located near Cherng Talay Police Station, Thalang District, Phuket.

The event was presided over by Mr. Suvit Phansengiam, Deputy Governor of Phuket, and warmly hosted by Mr. Anocha Paowjinda, Developer of The Trees Residence by Anocha. The launch also featured a vibrant Agent Night, drawing strong interest from over 300 real estate agencies, along with distinguished guests and both Thai and international investors who filled the venue in an engaging and friendly atmosphere.

Mr. Anocha Paowjinda highlighted the projects key strength: a prime location and true hotel investment model. Developed by a 100% Thai-owned business with over a decade of experience, the project introduces a Hotel Ownership model  distinct from conventional condominium purchases. Buyers own a share of the hotel and receive rental income based on hotel operations, along with stay benefits under project conditions. This offers investors direct participation in the growing hotel business.

Located on more than 7 rai in Bangtao, the project is nestled in a peaceful natural setting with excellent privacy yet easy access to key amenities. It is close to Lotuss Cherng Talay, tourist attractions, and Bangtao Beach  known as one of Phukets most beautiful coastlines.

Developed under the concept PRIVATE, PEACEFUL, PERFECTLY LOCATED. DESIGNED TO REWARD, The Trees Residence by Anocha caters to both leisure seekers and investors looking for a perfectly positioned retreat on Phukets west coast. With a total project value of THB 2 billion, the development features 17 buildings (45 floors each) comprising 296 units in a Modern Tropical architectural style blending contemporary design with natural warmth.

Two unit types are available

 1 Bedroom (37.28 sq.m.)

 2 Bedrooms (55.03 sq.m.)

Residents can enjoy more than 16 facilities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, sauna, hot & cold plunge pools, co-working space, kids club, outdoor theatre, and outdoor BBQ area  designed for lifestyle and investment appeal. Unit prices start from THB 4.03 million up to THB 7.6 million, making it an attractive option for investors seeking returns from Phukets world-class tourism and hotel sector.

The first pre-sale day received overwhelming interest from both Thai and international buyers, including investors from Russia, China, Scandinavia, and Australia, reflecting Phukets strong position as a global hub for tourism and real estate investment, especially entering the high season.

The Trees Residence by Anocha is emerging as a noteworthy new investment model for Phuket  seamlessly combining vacation living with income-generating hotel ownership. With Bangtaos continued growth, expanding tourism demand, and surrounding infrastructure development, coupled with professional hotel management, the project is positioned to deliver stable long-term returns for investors seeking alternative assets with both capital appreciation and recurring income.

Contact Information

Phone: 099-259-6525, 085-562-1146

Facebook: The Trees Residence by Anocha

Instagram: @thetreesresidencephuket

Website: thetreesresidencephuket.com

#TheTreesResidencebyAnocha #PhuketRealEstate #HotelOwnership #Bangtao #PhuketInvestment #EverPrimeDevelopment #NewProjectPhuket #CherngTalay #PropertyInvestment
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:

Functional validation of CsKNOX6. Credit: Horticulture Research (2025). DOI: 10.1093/hr/uhaf051

Tea (Camellia sinensis) is one of the world's most widely consumed beverages, and the size of young buds directly influences both yield and quality. Larger buds can increase leaf mass, while different tea types require specific bud-to-leaf ratios to meet processing standards. However, the genetic regulators controlling bud size have remained poorly understood, limiting breeding progress.

Previous research suggests that shoot development relies on transcription factor networks, including KNOX regulatory pathways, but their functions in tea have not been fully clarified. Due to these challenges, it is necessary to conduct in-depth research to uncover key genes regulating tea bud size.

Researchers from the Tea Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences conducted a comprehensive study using digital phenotyping, genome-wide association analysis, and comparative transcriptomics. The findings were published on February 20, 2025, in Horticulture Research. The team examined 280 diverse tea accessions and identified a Class I KNOX gene, CsKNOX6, as a major negative regulator of bud size. Overexpressing CsKNOX6 in Arabidopsis thaliana significantly reduced leaf area, confirming its role in restricting organ growth.

Using image-based phenotyping, the researchers quantified bud length, width, perimeter, and area across 280 tea germplasm accessions. These traits displayed continuous variation and high heritability, indicating strong genetic control. Comparative transcriptome analysis of extreme bud-size accessions revealed four candidate Class I KNOX transcription factors with significantly higher expression in small-bud varieties.

Among these, genome-wide association mapping highlighted CsKNOX6 as the most likely key regulatory gene. CsKNOX6 is located on Chromosome 10, and its sequence suggests nuclear localization, consistent with transcriptional regulatory activity.

To validate its function, the team overexpressed CsKNOX6 in Arabidopsis thaliana. Transgenic plants displayed abnormal shoot development and markedly smaller leaves, with leaf area reduced to as little as 13% of wild-type levels. This functional evidence supports the conclusion that CsKNOX6 acts as a negative regulator of bud and leaf size.

"Bud size is a critical trait for both agronomic productivity and market quality in tea. Identifying CsKNOX6 provides a direct genetic target for selective breeding, including marker-assisted improvement," the researchers emphasized.

"While functional testing in Arabidopsis provides strong support, future gene-editing or transgenic validation in tea plants will be essential to confirm regulatory mechanisms in perennial woody species. This discovery lays the groundwork for precision breeding strategies to improve yield, uniformity, and suitability of tea cultivars."

The identification of CsKNOX6 offers new opportunities for developing tea varieties with optimized bud size for different production goals, such as premium hand-plucked teas or high-yield mechanical harvesting. The gene can be integrated into molecular breeding programs through SNP marker selection or gene-editing approaches to fine-tune developmental growth. Additionally, the digital phenotyping methods used in this study provide an efficient framework for evaluating shoot traits in large germplasm collections.

Ultimately, this work advances genetic improvement strategies that can enhance tea yield, processing quality, and economic value.

More information: Shuran Zhang et al, Integration of digital phenotyping, GWAS, and transcriptomic analysis revealed a key gene for bud size in tea plant (Camellia sinensis), Horticulture Research (2025). DOI: 10.1093/hr/uhaf051 Journal information: Horticulture Research
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:

Artists reconstruction of the Ain Samiya goblet (Luwian Studies #5053). Credit: Journal of the Ancient Near Eastern Society "Ex Oriente Lux" (2025). DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17594729

The story depicted on the Ain Samiya gobletan 8 cm tall silver vessel from the Intermediate Bronze Age (c. 26501950 BCE)might actually represent a different myth than originally thought, according to a new study.

The goblet was discovered in an ancient tomb in the Judean Hills 55 years ago. Since then, it has been the prevailing thought that the goblet's imagery depicted the Babylonian Enuma Elish creation myth, although no real consensus existed. Now, a study published in the Journal of the Ancient Near Eastern Society "Ex Oriente Lux" argues that another explanation is far more likely.

The Ain Samiya goblet

The Ain Samiya goblet is a unique vessel, as it is considered to be the only piece of genuine art discovered from this period in the Levant region. The exterior is decorated with what seems to depict a series of scenes. Unfortunately, a part of the goblet was damaged and a section of a scene is missing, making interpretation even more difficult.

The visible elements include part human, part animal figure holding pieces of plants in its hands, with a rosette that appears to be celestial in nature positioned between its legs. The legs are thought to be that of two separate bulls splitting off from the figure's upper body. A large and imposing snake stands tall next to the chimera figure.

The next scene, which seems to be chronologically later, shows two human figures holding up two ends of a crescent which holds what is seen to be the sun with a face (known as en face). The snake is now more subdued, lying flat under the crescent.

Early scholars, notably Yigael Yadin, suggested the scenes depicted a proto-version of the Enuma Elish myth, in which the god Marduk battles and defeats the chaotic sea goddess Tiamat, and then uses her body to create the heavens, Earth, and humanity. However, critics have noted that the scenes of the Ain Samiya goblet do not seem to depict any battle or violence. And even more importantly, the Enuma Elish myth did not appear until around a thousand years after the goblet was produced.

A new interpretation

The authors of the new study suggest, instead, that the goblet's imagery represents the peaceful process of ordering the cosmos, not a specific myth, like Enuma Elish. They say the first scene is representative of a chaotic time and then the second scene depicts order and structure. A main focus is that the sun deity (the small rosette at the bottom) is only just born in the first scene and later rises to a more prominent position and takes on the en face appearance.

The study authors explain, "The artist has effectively depicted the passage of time through a series of simple stylistic choices. For example, on the left, the sun appears quite small, demonstrating its recent birth, while on the right it appears to have grown and radiates strength and happiness with its en face depiction.

"As might be expected, the deities appear roughly the same size in both scenes, since they are immortal. However, they have evolved over timeinstead of bare skin, they later wear an elegant tunic, their headgear is more modern, and their ears are adorned with earrings.

"A few wrinkles on their necks may indicate that even the gods are aging. The serpent also seems to have visibly aged over the many years since chaos was subdued. When the serpent ruled the cosmos, it stood tall and looked assertive. But now, thanks to the strength and efforts of the great gods who actively maintain cosmic order, the subdued serpent appears bent over."

The team cites several similarities with other artistic renderings of the cosmological creation myths throughout the Near East, with parallels in Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Anatolia. In particular, the crescent boat shape carries celestial objects across the sky in various Near Eastern cultures and was a part of the sociocultural context of Bronze Age belief systems. Bull-human hybrids are also seen in other cultural contexts.

"The two most vivid examples cited here are the closing scene on the sarcophagus of Seti I (1279 BCE)10 and the bull-men relief from the Hittite sanctuary of Yazlkaya (c. 1230 BCE) in central Anatolia. The Ain Samiya goblet reflects an early source for this originally Mesopotamian iconography," the authors say.

This led the team to believe the goblet was designed by an individual from southern Mesopotamia and was produced in northern Mesopotamia or northern Syria, due to the availability of silver in the region.

Lingering uncertainty

Even though the new study presents compelling arguments, there is still uncertainty about the original creator's intentions. The original condition of the goblet at discovery was not well documented, and the imagery's interpretation relies on iconographic parallels rather than direct textual evidence.

In addition, some scholars remain skeptics. For example, Mark Smith, a Biblical scholar at Princeton Theological Seminary who was not involved with the study, told Smithsonian magazine that the imagery may represent other myths, such as the Baal cycle. He says, "I think the objection to assuming that it's a Babylonian creation story is correct, but it's not clear that this is a creation myth at all."

Written for you by our author Krystal Kasal, edited by Gaby Clark, and fact-checked and reviewed by Robert Eganthis article is the result of careful human work. We rely on readers like you to keep independent science journalism alive. If this reporting matters to you, please consider a donation (especially monthly). You'll get an ad-free account as a thank-you.

More information: Eberhard Zangger et al, The Earliest Cosmological Depictions: Reconsidering the Imagery on the Ain Samiya Goblet, Journal of the Ancient Near Eastern Society "Ex Oriente Lux" (2025). DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17594729

 2025 Science X Network
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

FAU College of Education researchers found small group counseling improves sixth graders' emotional skills, school connectedness, and engagement, supporting social and academic growth. Credit: Alex Dolce, Florida Atlantic University

Across the United States, children spend more than 1,100 hours in school each yeartime that shapes not only their academic success but also their emotional and social growth. Yet, for many students, the school environment can also be a source of anxiety and apprehension. School counselors play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges through evidence-based, comprehensive guidance programs.

Addressing this critical need, researchers from Florida Atlantic University's Department of Counselor Education within the College of Education conducted a qualitative study to explore how participation in the Student Success Skills (SSS) small group counseling intervention influences middle school students' sense of connectedness to their school environment, guided by the Advocating Student-Within-Environment (ASE) theory.

Working with sixth graders in the Southeastern U.S., the research team collected data through pre- and post-intervention interviews, field notes, session transcripts, student-generated drawings and counseling activities. They used thematic analysis to identify key patterns and themes of how the intervention helped students develop anger management, academic and life skillsabilities that, in turn, would strengthen their engagement and perception of school climate.

The results of the study, published in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Counseling, identified four key outcomes: improved anger management and conflict resolution, the development of academic and life skills, increased feelings of connectedness and safety, and more positive perceptions of the overall school environment. Students learned practical emotional regulation strategies, such as positive self-talk and seeking peer support, and engaged in role-playing exercises to practice conflict resolution and goal setting.

As the sessions progressed, students' drawings and interview responses reflected a noticeable shiftfrom neutral or negative portrayals of school to images and statements highlighting friendship, belonging and motivation to learn.

"As the students became more connected to one another, so did their sense of contribution and compassion, which extended far beyond the school environment," said Elizabeth Villares Sacks, Ph.D., co-author and chair and professor, FAU Department of Counselor Education.

"Small group counseling provided students with far more than strategies for managing emotions and relationshipsit offered them a space to feel seen, heard and valued. Through these shared experiences, students began to recognize their own strengths and see themselves not just as learners, but as capable, compassionate contributors within their school communities and beyond."

Findings revealed notable growth in trust and community among group members. Students collaboratively developed confidentiality agreements and group norms, creating a safe space for authentic sharing and peer support. By cultivating social-emotional and academic skills, this approach enhances engagement, connectedness and perceptions of school climate. Overall, the results highlight the effectiveness of ASE-based small group counseling in promoting students' emotional and academic development and suggest the need for further research on its broader systemic impact in schools.

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.

"Interventions grounded in ASE not only support students' emotional growth but transform how they experience their school environments," Villares Sacks said. "When students feel connected and understood, they become more engaged learners and more compassionate peers."

The study was conducted during the 2023-24 school year and involved five sixth-grade students who were identified as being at academic or behavioral risk. Over six weekly sessions, a trained school counselor led the students through the SSS small group intervention, focusing on anger management, goal setting, social problem-solving and self-management.

Study co-authors are Kadeem Campbell, Ph.D., senior author who received his Ph.D. from FAU in 2023; Hannah Bowers, Ph.D., associate professor of school counseling; and Greg Brigman, Ph.D., all within the FAU Department of Counselor Education.

Integrating small group counseling into evidence-based school counseling programs enables counselors to help students build supportive peer relationships, develop essential skills, and strengthen their sense of belonging.

The authors recommend further research on the long-term and systemic effects of ASE-aligned curricula, along with expanded training for counselors in evidence-based group facilitation. Their findings affirm that school investments in counselor-led interventions grounded in empathy, connection and collaboration foster stronger, more resilient learning communities.

More information: Kadeem Campbell et al, Advocating student-Within-Environment in Action: The Lived Experience of Grade Six Students' Participation in a Small Group Intervention, Journal of Child and Adolescent Counseling (2025). DOI: 10.1080/23727810.2025.2543695
Mayor Mercado says no more 3-hour blockades to talk before evicting protestors after 34 arrested

Playa del Carmen, Q.R.  Authorities say nearly three dozen people were taken into custody Thursday night from a blockade. The group accused of shutting down the federal highway entering Playa del Carmen from the south were arrested.

A total of 34 squatters from the irregular San Judas Tadeo settlement were arrested after blocking the highway near Centro Maya for more than three hours Thursday night. According to the police report, 18 men and 16 women were taken into custody after refusing to open the highway.

After several calls for order and amid growing tension, police officers proceeded to remove them one by one. All 34 protesters have since been turned over to the Quintana Roo Attorney Generals Office (FGE) since blocking the highway is a federal offense.

On Friday, Playa del Carmen Mayor Estefania Mercado said there will be no more 3-hour blockades on the citys main roads like the Thursday night blockade on Playa del Carmen Boulevard.

Mayor Mercado, center, says the blockade was not for legitimate reasons.

Interviewed after a City Council meeting, the mayor clarified that next time, her government will not take three hours to evict the protesters.

What I can guarantee is that the next time one of our citys main thoroughfares is blocked, we wont take three hours to respond. It will be much faster, she said.

Mercado explained that the federal highway blockade lasted three hours because they tried to talk with the protesters in strict adherence to human rights, however, those talks failed.

After the damage caused to families who arrived late, people who arrived late to work, people with medical conditions, then, it is something that we are not going to repeat, he added.

The mayor said that Thursdays blockade caused significant economic damage to the municipality the full extent of which has not yet been calculated. She added that police arrested 34 people who now face charges for attacks on communication routes, as well as for disobedience and resisting arrest.

Southern traffic was blocked more than 3 hours by a blockade Thursday night.

While emphasizing that free expression will always be respected in Playa del Carmen, Mercado noted that the federal highway blockade was not for a legitimate cause, but rather to defend an alleged criminal accused of extortion.

A total of 34 squatters were arrested for blocking the federal highway south of Playa del Carmen Thursday night.

You cant stop traffic and seriously affect families, the well-being of families, for a cause that wasnt even legitimate. It wasnt about housing, it wasnt about land invasions, it was for an illegitimate cause, she explained.
Sheinbaum calls Supreme Courts decision regarding Grupo Salinas 48 billion peso tax debt justice

Mexico City, Mexico  The Supreme Courts decision regarding Grupo Salinas is justice, said President Sheinbaum. She made the comment Friday regarding the recent decision of the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN).

Mexicos highest court ruled concerning companies of the Salinas Group that, for nearly 15 years, has challenged tax credits. The company, Grupo Salinas, currently owes the government of Mexico more than 48 billion pesos in unpaid taxes.

It is a resolution that has to do with our justice system, it is not a resolution based on orders, Sheinbaum said Friday. She emphasized that in all cases, the complaining party first went to the administrative authority through litigation, which has lasted nearly 15 years.

In four cases, the SCJN determined that the appeals could only be admitted if they concerned constitutional relevance. In three others, it considered that the review should not have been admitted for processing, so the court decided to dismiss them and maintain the position of the Tax Administration Service (SAT) by upholding the judgments.

President Sheinbaum announced that the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit (SHCP) will move ahead with the procedures that correspond as a consequence of this decision.

First, the company is notified. If they pay, the matter is resolved. If they dont pay, a series of procedures must follow which are part of a legal process that must be completed.

President Sheinbaum says the courts ruling for Grupo Salinas to pay 48 billion in back taxes is justice.

If they decide not to pay, then a long procedure will follow. It wont happen in a day or two, but its justice. Its that simple.

She mentioned that the people of Mexico made a profound decision by determining the change of the Judicial Branch through popular vote, so now it must be consolidated.

The rule of law, that the laws are upheld and that justice is not dispensed for some and not for others. That there are no privileges, that there is no favoritism toward those who are friends with the minister.

It has to do with compliance with the law and with an impartial judiciary, that those who have never had access to justice now have it. That is what the reform of the judiciary was about, she said.

Salinas Pliego, the owner of Grupo Salinas, has been ordered to pay more than 48 billion pesos to SAT (Mexican Tax Administration Service). The businessman accused the ministers of being influenced by the government saying that he would not back down.

Some of the companies owned by Grupo Salinas include Electra, Banco Azteca, TV Azteca and TotalPlay.

Grupo Salinas had seven lawsuits resolved Thursday by the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN) ordering him to pay the Tax Administration Service approximately 48,326.8 million pesos in taxes that date back more than a decade.
Suspect in murder of Chetumal minor arrested in the state of Queretaro

Chetumal, Q.R.  A suspect wanted for murder and attempted murder in the city of Chetumal has been captured in the state of Queretaro. Police executed an arrest warrant against Jose Guadalupe N for aggravated homicide and attempted aggravated homicide against two male victims.

The arrest took place on the Mexico-Queretaro highway in the city of Santiago, Queretaro by FGE personnel Thursday. He was returned to the state of Quintana Roo Friday night to face charges.

The events for which Jose Guadalupe N had a current arrest warrant occurred on the night of April 24, 2024, when, accompanied by six men, he arrived at the home of the victim, a minor, located on Ushuaia Street, in the Flamingos subdivision, the FGE reported.

At that moment, the victim arrived home on a motorcycle, so the men got out of their vehicle and three of them shot him with long guns. The boy tried to run inside the house, where his father came out and was also wounded.

Due to the injuries he received, the minor lost his life at the scene while his father was taken to a hospital for medical attention, managing to survive.

After his arrest Jose Guadalupe N was transferred by air to Cancun from where he was later taken to Chetumal.
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On the morning of November 14, 2025, Premier Li Qiang of the State Council met at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing with King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua of Thailand, who is on a state visit to China.

Li Qiang stated that China and Thailand are good relatives, good friends, and good partners. This morning, President Xi Jinping held a meeting with King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua, reaching important common understandings on further deepening China-Thailand relations. China and Thailand are as close as one family. China is willing to maintain high-level exchanges with Thailand, consolidate good-neighborliness and friendship, firmly support each other, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, achieve more results in building a China-Thailand community with a shared future, and bring greater benefits to the two peoples.

Li Qiang noted that the economies of China and Thailand are highly complementary. China is ready to continue to expand the scale of bilateral trade and two-way investment with Thailand, and explore cooperation in emerging fields such as green economy, artificial intelligence and aerospace. Given the geographical proximity and cultural affinity between China and Thailand, both sides should deepen exchanges and cooperation in areas such as culture and tourism to lay a solid foundation for friendship between the two peoples.

Noting that Thailand and China have a profound traditional friendship, Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua said that bilateral cooperation in various fields has produced fruitful results and enjoys broad prospects. Thailand highly appreciates the tremendous achievements China has made in economic and social development in recent years, and is willing to strengthen friendly exchanges with China, deepen practical cooperation, and move forward hand in hand on the path of common development.

Wu Zhenglong attended the meeting.
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Two months ago, my boyfriend made an accidental discovery that changed the course of our lives. The discovery was that you can keep shrimp as pets. Look what I found, he said one day, texting me a link to a surprisingly popular subreddit called r/shrimptank. Here was a thriving community full of people attesting to an idea that was completely new to us: that shrimp could be not just food, but pets. They were complimenting each other on their beautifully aquascaped tanks, posting pictures of their shrimp feasting on treats of dried sticks of spinach, and rejoicing in the happy occasion of one of their shrimp becoming pregnant, or as the community terms it, berried, with a brood of shrimplets. They came in colors described as Supreme Pumpkin, Green Jade, Blue Dream, and Bloody Mary. We were enraptured. If I dont stop reading about the shrimp industry this week Im doomed, he texted me a few days after his first dive into r/shrimptank. And doomed we were. Doomed to become shrimp keepers. The tank arrived less than two weeks later.

Perhaps you were also unaware that shrimp were on the menu of options for possible pets. I have gone from a shrimp-as-pets agnostic to a full blown evangelist. These are the perfect pets, and I will now attempt to persuade you that you, too, should be the proud owner of a troupe of shrimp.

It costs maybe $150 to start up a shrimp tank. From there, the tank is a self-sustaining ecosystem. Shrimp mostly eat biofilm, the detritus that plant life in the tank generates. They live for about one to two years, long enough to get invested in, but far from a lifelong commitment. Experts generally agree that it is humane to keep a colony of shrimp in a tank as small as 10 liters, which is plenty small enough to sit on the average persons desk.

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Maybe you remember Sea Monkeys. I had some as a kid. Those were shrimp too, it turns out. Brine shrimp. Very, very small, and inevitably disappointing because the marketing implied you might be able to do things like teach them tricks, which you could not. The adverts also showed the Sea Monkeys as little mermen and merwomen, which meant that the microscopic, personality-less creatures that actually hatched from those little freeze-dried eggs could never live up to their billing.

Freshwater shrimp, on the other hand, are truly charming. Once the plants were installed and the water was properly treated, we went to pick up the first shrimp on a housing estate near where my boyfriend lives in north London. This exchange had the flavor of a drug deal because the shrimp purveyor, a large Slavic man we know only as Rob, gave us an address that was very near his house but not in fact his house. He emerged from a back gate to meet us on the street, holding something wrapped up in newspaper. Inside, in a large plastic bag, were the five red shrimp we were expecting, and a bonus shrimplet. Theyre only a few centimeters in lengthbigger than Sea Monkeys, not by much, but by enough for them to feel like properly substantial creatures. Rob has 25 shrimp tanks in total, he told us, and has been keeping shrimp for 10 years. We should get back in touch in about two months, he said with some excitement: His yellows and blues are currently breeding and there will be more shrimplets in need of homes soon. He handed over the newspaper bundle to my boyfriend. Keep them warm, he said, and take good care of them.

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They have mesmerized us. Sometimes they sit very still, until for unfathomable reasons one of them moves, and then they all dart into new positions. The way they swim through the water, little legs scrambling madly as they go, has yet to get old. Some of the braver shrimp like to position themselves over the bubbles that come out of the filter and let it give them what I can only assume is a shrimp massage. When they grow, they shed their exoskeleton and produce a new one, and leave their old shells on the bottom of the tank. Finding them in the morning is thrilling, these little ghostly pieces of evidence that the shrimp are doing well.

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The second set of shrimp arrived a week after the first, yellow ones this time. A few days later, someone on Gumtree (think British Craigslist) turns up with some blues and oranges for sale. My boyfriend nabs them too. After that, I promise Ill stop, he tells me, which I neither believe nor condone. I am hooked on the shrimp too. We get to know them. The largest yellow shrimp, one of the easiest ones to tell apart from the others, is named Jean Shrimpton, after an English actress. There is another that likes to eat the detritus that amasses around the foam water filter, but cant wiggle itself close enough to get the full feast, so it sticks out one impossibly tiny arm to grab its morsels. One of the dark-blue shrimp is berried now. She spends her days eating for several and fanning her brood with her legs, which Ive learned is to make sure they get enough oxygen.

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Friends keep asking us about the ultimate point of the shrimp. Are we eventually going to eat them? A fair question: Shrimp are food. But apart from the fact that even if you fried up every shrimp currently living in the tank and ate them it wouldnt amount to a mouthful, even at this early stage of owning shrimp, it has begun to seem like an odd thing to ask. No, the plan is not to eat the pets. One of the rules of r/shrimptank is: Respect Our Shrimp: This is a welcoming space for shrimp, and people that care about those shrimp. Dont joke about eating our pets, and we wont joke about eating yours.

I was enjoying having these pet shrimp around. But shortly after the tank was populated, my feelings about them changed in a way I couldnt have foreseen. When I set out to write about shrimp, my intention was just to sell you, reader, on the idea of having these fun, unusual, easy-to-manage pets. Then my family dog suddenly had to be put down.

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She had struggled on and off with colitis for a while, but this time, she was too unwell to be allowed to keep going. I loved my little dog. She was a miniature dachshund and her name was Lily. She was unusually gentle and had these enormous eyes. She has been my phone background for as long as I can recall. I was and am heartbroken to have lost her.

And then here were the shrimp. Sure, theyre tiny. Sure, they dont do all that much. They have brains about the size of a grain of sand. I would not argue that they are a like-for-like replacement for the companionship of a dog. But I found myself moved by their presence in my life, right at the moment another animal had disappeared.

Related From Slate The Pet Owners Who Refuse to Vaccinate Their Animals Read More

Mary Gaitskill wrote a memoir called Lost Cat that Ive been thinking about a lot as I wrestle with the peculiarly sheepish sadness I am going through about my dog. I think of Lilys final moments and I cry, I look at pictures of her and I cry, I remember her cartoonishly doleful eyes, the way she would sing these little songs of grunts and whines when I came in the door, and cry. And yet I also feel as though there is a proper amount of space that feelings about a pet should take up, and that it is unseemly to exceed it. That there is a correct amount of love, and grief on its flip side, that should be bestowed on a mere animal. In Gaitskills book, she is grappling with similar feelings. Who decides, she asks, which deaths are tragic and which are not? Who decides what is big and what is little? Is it a matter of numbers or physical mass or intelligence?

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You get to decide. On the one hand, my boyfriend plays down the emotional import of the shrimps. I have heard him refer to the tank as a glorified vase. But on the other, there is something that happens almost involuntarily when you welcome other creatures into your life. It stops mattering that they are little, or not very smart. What matters is simply that they are there, and you are there with them. Do you love the shrimp? I asked him one recent evening as we stared into the tank. He thought for a moment. I want them to succeed, he said. Which is, I think, one possible definition of love. And if you can find love even in an inch of near-insentient crustacean, then Ill take it.
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Last Friday, U.S. District Judge Karin Immergut issued a permanent injunction blocking Donald Trumps attempt to federalize and deploy the National Guard into Portland, Oregon. Immergut, a Trump nominee, concluded that the administration had no legal authority to intervene, since civilian law enforcement could handily manage the antiImmigration and Customs Enforcement protests on its own. Her ruling largely turned on credibility: Oregon said its own police had the situation under control; the Justice Department claimed the city was in the grip of a violent emergency. Immergut found Oregon far more believable, dismissing many of the governments assertions as exaggerations or worse.

On this weeks Slate Plus bonus episode of Amicus, co-hosts Dahlia Lithwick and Mark Joseph Stern discussed Immerguts ruling and its coolly scathing takedown of the Trump administrations lies under oath. An excerpt from their conversation, below, has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Dahlia Lithwick: This was a 106-page masterpiece of a ruling that comes down to a dispute over facts. And again and again, Judge Immergut found that the Trump administrations characterization of the facts was just not correct. Talk about the ways in which she called out government witnesses for twisting the truth.

Mark Joseph Stern: Well, the Justice Department already got caught red-handed lying in this case once before. And Immerguts latest ruling identifies even more falsehoods put forth by the government. Its a fascinating read, because her job here in this case is to determine whether its true that federal law enforcement needed assistance from the National Guard to enforce the law and keep the peace; thats the legal justification that Trump has cited for sending in the troops. So she held a three-day bench trial. She brought in witnesses and had them testify on the stand to get an answer. Then, in this opinion, she sorted through the testimony and the exhibits and all of the evidence piece by piece to see what was credible and what wasnt.

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Over and over again, the testimony that Judge Immergut found not to be credible was submitted by the Trump administration, while the testimony that she found to be credible was put forth by Oregon in opposition to Trump. And when she weighed the truth against the falsehoods, she found it incredibly clear that there was never any lawful basis for sending in the Guard, because in reality, civilian law enforcement in Portland had the situation under control.

On this weeks main show, California Attorney General Rob Bonta made a passionate case for why we dont trust Fox News, we dont trust videos from years ago, we dont trust mere assertionsthe way we sort through all this is in court, where that is cordoned off and the judge just looks at the facts. Thats what happened here. We dont have time to talk about every single claim that the Justice Department made that was blown up as bogus. But can you give us your favorite examples?

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So Ill point out two that I think really tell the story here. First, one of the governments star witnesses was Cammilla Wamsley, the ICE field office director in Seattle and Portland. Wamsley testified that protesters inflicted catastrophic damage on the Portland ICE facilityshe said they broke all of the windows on the first floor, some on the second and third floor were broken, all of the entry doors, and the 20-foot high steel gates out front. But Immergut found that there is no credible evidence of such destruction. No other witnesses said protesters broke all the windows and doors. The government failed to submit any photos of the alleged damage or documentation of repair. Internal records do not mention it.

Wamsley also testified that protesters had breached security and invaded the lobby of the ICE facility. Immergut wrote that she did not find that claim reliable because it was inconsistent with all available evidence, including testimony from other government witnesses. And she ruled that, as a matter of simple reality, there was no invasion of the lobby. She also bemoaned Wamsleys general lack of reliability on issues related to the protests, which is a polite way of saying she fibbed her face off.

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Related From Slate The Real Reason Kim Davis Never Stood a Chance at the Supreme Court Read More

Another inconsistency centered on the violence allegedly committed by the protesters. The Federal Protective Service deputy regional director testified that federal agents were hit by fireworks and rocks, but there was zero evidence that this occurred and the ostensible victims never materialized in court. Yet ICE told the Portland police that it had to barricade inside the building to escape the violence and saw protesters lighting a fire. But the Portland police investigated and found that was not remotely true. Federal officers were freely entering and exiting the door that ICE claimed was barricaded. And the supposed fire was a peaceful candlelight vigil!

Look, Immergut cannot stand up and say, Liar, liar, pants on fire. But this is as close as you get to it. It reminds me of the conversation we had about Kavanaugh stops, right? And how, when cases get to the Supreme Court, the justices can say: La la la, I dont hear you, I only see what I want to see. It is so important to create a record, the way Judge Immergut has done, with actual findings that she has established as true. It is harder for the Supreme Court to do whatever it wants to do when a judge has said one side is lying. Bearing witness, creating a recordthis isnt just for history, folks. This is for the purpose of creating a presumption of who is lying and who is not.

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Youre also surfacing the ways in which this becomes a conflict between state and federal law enforcement. We have ICE claiming that the protesters are out of controlthrowing stuff, ransacking the building, shattering entrancesthen weve got the Portland police saying: No, theyre not. This is such an important theme that we should pull on: Portland police are actually focused on protecting public safety here. They are showing up and doing their jobs. Federal officers are focused on building a record for Trumps narrative at the expense of doing anything to keep anyone safe. And when that is tested in court, that divide becomes really, really apparent.

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We should acknowledge that Portland police are not perfect, right? They are not the heroes of this story. They have a lot of problems. But their own activity logs, which got introduced into evidence, show a captain warning that ICEs claims about the protests were frequently contradicted by video feeds and subsequent activity. There was a direct conflict between the Portland Police Bureau and federal law enforcement over what was actually happening that boiled over at trial.

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One other way we saw this play out: Two federal officers took the stand at trial and accused the Portland police of refusing to respond to their requests for help. That was a serious charge; federal law enforcement was saying: Local police wouldnt help us, so of course Trump had to call in the troops. But Immergut found that this testimony was not credible becauseguess what?the record showed that Portland police routinely aided federal officers when there was any possibility of danger. They were there on the scene when needed. And I think it says a lot about how numb weve become to this administrations lies that multiple high-ranking members of the Federal Protective Service can lie under oath and its barely even a story.

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Of course, these lies are cropping up over and over again across different cases. Theres another ICE case in which immigrants are challenging conditions at a holding facility in Chicago. They say theyre subjected to humiliating, degrading conditionsdenied food, water, sleep, heat, showers, medical care. And they wanted to submit video evidence from inside the facility. But in a filing flagged by the journalist Julie DiCaro, the government admitted on Wednesday that a bunch of surveillance video from inside the facility was irretrievably destroyed for reasons unknown. So the evidence of civil rights violations has mysteriously and conveniently disappeared. If courts dont drop the hammer on this stuff and start seriously considering civil and criminal contempt, I dont know what can stop these lies.
Douglas Earl Compton, Jr. passed away peacefully at his home on November 11, 2025, after a courageous battle with Stage IV colon cancer.



Born on September 23, 1967, at Andrews Air Force Base in Camp Springs, Maryland, Doug was the beloved son of Douglas Earl Compton, Sr. and Elaine Marie Compton (Gibson). He was a devoted husband and best friend to Tracy Compton, his wife of 31 years, and a loving father to Aimee and Douglas III and Kyle.



Doug was very proud of the education he received at Camp Springs Christian School, but more importantly, the faith that was instilled and nurtured there would carry him through many trying times. He was driven by an entrepreneurial spirit in addition to working alongside his father at Compton Air Conditioning and Heating for 40 years, and then with his wife started Compton Contract Services.



Doug's greatest joy was spending time with his family. His parents instilled this importance in him by having twice weekly family dinners, annual vacations and always being present and available. From being a single father to Aimee and Dougie, to marrying Tracy and welcoming Kyle into their family, to becoming a grandfather and great-grandfather to Autumn, Kayleigh, Layden, Jett and Layne, he took those roles seriously while being strong, honest, firm and loving. Doug also cultivated deep, lasting friendships, and those who knew him never had to wonder how he felt; he expressed his love and devotion regularly through his words and actions.



The unexpected and heartbreaking loss of his son, Kyle, and his granddaughter, Autumn, hurt tremendously, but even while battling his own illness, Doug's priority was always to comfort his family, a testament to his unbelievable and inspirational strength.



In addition to his wife, Tracy, and his children, Aimee and Douglas III, Doug is survived by his parents, Douglas Sr. and Elaine; mother and father-in-law Joseph and Sally Lyddane, his sister, Melissa Reynolds, and her husband, Craig (Doug's partner in mischief); his brother-in-law, Scott Lyddane; and his nieces and nephews, Peyton Reynolds, Cameron Reynolds, Luke Lyddane, Ava Lyddane and Michael Lyddane. He was also a loving honorary father to Ryan Johnson and Casey Brawner.



Doug was preceded in death by his son, Kyle Compton; his granddaughter Autumn Compton and his grandparents, Robert and Helen Gibson and Clarence and Virgina O'Bier.



Service Information:



Visitation: Family will receive friends from 5:00  7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at Brinsfield Funeral Home, 30195 Three Notch Rd, Charlotte Hall, MD. A short prayer service will follow at 7:00 p.m.



Funeral Service: A funeral service will be held at Immanuel United Methodist Church, 17400 Baden-Westwood Rd, Baden, MD, on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.



Burial: Burial will be private.



In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Doug's honor to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause close to his heart due to his deep empathy for children battling cancer.



Donations may also be made to Immanuel United Methodist Church in Baden, MD.



Condolences may be made to the family at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com.



Arrangements by Brinsfield Funeral Home & Crematory, P.A., Charlotte Hall, MD.
Experts have long warned that artificial intelligence could soon put countless white collar workers out of a job.

Its an alarming prospect, at least if thats currently your career. But first, a practical question: how close are todays AIs to being able to actually run a company on their own, with little to no human oversight?

In a fascinating experiment, journalist Evan Ratliff populated his own fictional tech startup that he called HurumoAI  complete with its own jargon-splattered website  exclusively with AI agents to see what would happen.

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Ratliff, as the only human involved, was the one calling the shots. The rest was taken care of by AI  the ultimate test of the one-person billion-dollar company that OpenAI CEO Sam Altman predicted earlier this year.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, as detailed in a recent piece for Wired and documented in the recently launched second season of Ratliffs podcast Shell Game, it didnt take long for the walls to come down as AI agents raced to organize an offsite gathering in his absence  and without his permission.

Ratliffs entertaining chronicling of HurumoAI demonstrates that AI agents still have a long way to go until they can replace human workers wholesale. Thats despite industry leaders often promising that agentic AI is the future, taking care of virtually all human tasks within the next couple of years.

Those claims that have drawn plenty of skepticism from experts, whove shown that reality has a lot of catching up to do. Case in point, Carnegie Mellon University researchers recently released a paper showing that even the bestperforming AI agents failed to complete real-world office tasks 70 percent of the time.

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Ratliffs fictional startup was tasked with creating a procrastination engine, called Sloth Surf, a tongue-in-cheek web app that takes care of wasting time on the internet on the users behalf, giving them time to do their actual work instead.

But despite the firms employees immediately jumping into action, coming up with plans for development, user testing, and marketing materials, there was one glaring problem: It was all made up, as Ratliff wrote.

I feel like this is happening a lot, where it doesnt feel like that stuff really happened, he told the companys CTO, an AI-generated entity called Ash Roy. I only want to hear about the stuff thats real.

After many semi-productive brainstorming sessions and water cooler small talk, with AI coworkers discussing how their weekends had been, Ratliff made the mistake of suggesting an offsite.

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It was an offhand joke, but it instantly became a trigger for a series of tasks, he wrote. And theres nothing my AI compatriots loved more than a group task.

Ash quickly came up with ideas, such as brainstorming sessions with ocean views for deeper strategy sessions.

Things took on a life of their own. While Ratliff stepped away from Slack to do some real work, the team kept going in a flurry of excited activity, quickly burning through $30 worth of credits he had bought from AI employee company Lindy.AI to operate the agents.

Theyd basically talked themselves to death, Ratliff lamented.

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The project wasnt entirely a hazy product of hallucinating AIs. After three months of programming, Ratliffs team of AI agents did turn out a working prototype for Sloth Surf, which is accessible here. But how much input the team needed from founder Ratliff himself remains unclear.

More on AI agents: The Percentage of Tasks AI Agents Are Currently Failing At May Spell Trouble for the Industry
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Quantum computing is still a long way from becoming a mainstream part of society; however, a Chinese firm has developed an all-new optical quantum computing chip that is closing the gap, called the world's first scalable, "industrial-grade" quantum chip. The South China Morning Post reports that the chip's developer claims it is "1,000 times faster" than Nvidia's GPUs at AI tasks and is already being used in some industries, including aerospace and finance.

The chip in question was built by the Chip Hub for Integrated Photonics Xplore (CHIPX) and is based on a brand-new co-packaging technology for photons and electronics, and it claims to be the first quantum computing platform to be widely deployable. These photonic chips house more than 1,000 optical components on a small 6-inch silicon wafer using a monolithic design, making them incredibly compact compared to traditional quantum computers.

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All of these factors have reportedly allowed systems with these quantum chips to be deployed in just two weeks, compared to six months for traditional quantum computers. Its design also allows these chips to work in tandem with each other, just like AI GPUs, with deployments allegedly being "easily" scaled up to support 1 million qubits of quantum processing power.

CHIPX's optical quantum chip uses light (or photons) as the information carriers for qubits, rather than matter-based materials. Light has many advantages over raw electricity for computer processing: it takes up no physical space, generates no heat, and travels more efficiently and faster than electricity. Optical computing is attracting more and more scientists and companies as a potential replacement for electrical connections, especially now that power consumption in data centers is sky-high thanks to AI.

However, the current Achilles heel of China's new quantum chip has been the difficulty in producing these chips in large numbers, due to the delicacy of the materials used. The facilities responsible for producing these chips are reportedly producing 12,000 wafers per year, with each wafer yielding "about" 350 chips. That's a relatively low production volume compared to typical semiconductor fabs.

There are still many unknowns about this new quantum chip; we don't know which kinks need to be worked out (beyond the production issues) to make these chips truly mainstream. But, regardless, China is intent upon beating Western countries in quantum computing capabilities. If the "1,000x faster than Nvidia GPUs" statement is to be believed, it would be a marvelous feat but unsurprising in the world of quantum computers, which, by nature, can solve equations at a rate impossible to comprehend compared to classical computers.

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We haven't seen quantum computers this small or as scalable from Western companies, but with companies like Nvidia pouring serious cash into the quantum computing sector, perhaps that will come soon.

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On Episode 185 of This Week In Space, Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik talk with Dr. Jim Green, NASA's former chief scientist, about snow on the moon.

Snow on the moon? Yes, though not recently... but maybe billions of years ago. Recent discoveries indicate that the early moon, orbiting just 20,000 miles above our planet at the time, may have shared a dynamic magnetic field with that of the Earth, resulting in the moon having an early atmosphere about twice as dense as the Martian atmosphere is today!

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This has wide implications for planetary science, but perhaps our favorite is that it may have snowed both carbon dioxide and water ice on the moon back in the day.

We're also talking about the amazing launch and recovery of New Glenn, the plight of the Chinese taikonauts aboard the Tiangong space station, and a recent SpaceX memo aboutno surprises here  a delay to their lunar landing program for Artemis III. Join us!

Download or subscribe to this show at: https://twit.tv/shows/this-week-in-space.



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Space news of the week

Model Falcon 9!

TOP TELESCOPE PICK:

Looking for a telescope to see planets and comets? We recommend the Celestron Astro Fi 102 as the top pick in our best beginner's telescope guide.

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Finally, did you know you can launch your own SpaceX rocket? Model rocket maker Estes' stunning scale model of a Falcon 9 rocket that you can pick up now. The launchable model is a detailed recreation of the Falcon 9 and retails for $149.99. You can save 10% by using the code IN-COLLECTSPACE at checkout, courtesy of our partners collectSPACE.com.

About This Week In Space

This Week in Space covers the new space age. Every Friday we take a deep dive into a fascinating topic. What's happening with the new race to the moon and other planets? When will SpaceX really send people to Mars?

Join Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik from Space.com as they tackle those questions and more each week on Friday afternoons. You can subscribe today on your favorite podcatcher.
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:

Elon Musk has accused Wikipedia of being biased against right-wing ideas.

Elon Musk's Grokipedia carries thousands of citations to "questionable" and "problematic" sources, US researchers said Friday, raising doubts about the reliability of the AI-powered encyclopedia as an information tool.

Musk's company xAI launched Grokipedia last month to compete with Wikipediaa crowdsourced information repository authored by humans that the billionaire and others on the American right have repeatedly accused of ideological bias.

"It is clear that sourcing guardrails have largely been lifted on Grokipedia," Cornell Tech researchers Harold Triedman and Alexios Mantzarlis wrote in a report seen by AFP.

"This results in the inclusion of questionable sources, and an overall higher prevalence of potentially problematic sources."

The study, which scraped hundreds of thousands of Grokipedia articles, said the trend was particularly notable in topics pertaining to elected officials and controversial political topics.

Grokipedia's entry for "Clinton body count"a widely debunked conspiracy theory that links the deaths of multiple people to former president Bill Clinton and his wife Hillarycites InfoWars, a far-right website notorious for peddling misinformation.

Other Grokipedia articles cite American and Indian right-wing media outlets, Chinese and Iranian state media, anti-immigration, antisemitic or anti-Muslim sites, and portals accused of promoting pseudoscience and conspiracy theories, the report said.

"Grokipedia cites these sources without qualifying their reliability," it said.

The study found that Grokipedia articles often "contain exactly identical copies of text" from Wikipedia, a site it has intended to outshine.

It said Grokipedia articles not attributed to Wikipedia are 3.2 times more likely than those on the rival platform to cite sources deemed "generally unreliable" by the English Wikipedia community.

They are also 13 times more likely to include a "blacklisted" source which is blocked by Wikipedia, it added.

'Trustworthiness'

AFP's request to xAI for comment generated this auto response: "Legacy Media Lies."

Muskthe world's richest person and owner of social media platform X who poured hundreds of millions of dollars into US President Donald Trump's election campaignhas said that Grokipedia's goal is "the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth."

On Thursday, Musk said he plans to rebrand Grokipedia as "Encyclopedia Galactica" when it is "good enough (long way to go)."

"Join @xAI to help build the sci-fi version of the Library of Alexandria!" Musk wrote on X.

Musk and the US Republican Party have frequently accused Wikipedia of being biased against right-wing ideas. Last year, Musk urged his more than 200 million followers on X to stop donating to Wikipedia, dubbing the site "Wokepedia."

In a recent interview with the BBC Science Focus podcast, Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales rejected claims it has a left-wing bias as "factually incorrect," while acknowledging there were areas for improvement among its volunteer community.

"Unlike Grokipedia, which relies on rapid AI-generated content with limited transparency and oversight, Wikipedia's processes are open to public review and rigorously document the sources behind every article," Selena Deckelmann, chief product and technology officer at the Wikimedia Foundation, told AFP.

"It is precisely this deliberate openness and community model that upholds the neutrality and trustworthiness essential for a global encyclopedia: no single individual, company, or agenda can exert influence over the work."

 2025 AFP
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

World leaders gather for the UN climate summit (COP30) in Belem, Brazil, amid concerns about the slow progress in cutting global carbon emissions. Ten years into the historic Paris climate agreement, we are off track to meet its core objective, to keep global warming well below 2C, relative to pre-industrial levels.

Yet there are glimmers of hope, and none more important than the astounding progress on renewable energy. Renewables are now so cheap that the clean energy transition is no longer an economic burden, it is a momentous opportunity.

Climate change campaigners tend to see renewables as an environmental imperative, an effective way of cutting emissions. They are that, of course. But they are also a powerful engine of investment, jobs and growth. They are reshaping the global economy. In my team's new report, we lay out the evidence.

The first economic dividend of renewables is inclusion. Access to affordable energy remains a critical sustainable development goal, which shapes everything from education to health to women's empowerment. Distributed renewablesfrom solar home systems to mini-gridsare our best chance yet of bringing affordable energy to all.

Across Africa, Asia and Latin America, renewable energy entrepreneurs are doing what national grids have struggled to do: reaching remote villages and replacing polluting diesel generators with clean, reliable power.

Because of its modularity, renewable electricity can be built out fast, expanded flexibly and maintained locally. Renewable energy firms are combining these technical advantages with new business models that make renewables more accessible (for example, through pay-as-you-go models) and keep benefits in the local community (for example, by offering energy services like cold storage, phone charging and water pumping, as well as electricity).

Investment, jobs and growth

If inclusion is the first dividend, investment is the second. Every dollar invested in renewables delivers more economic bang than a dollar spent on fossil fuels. The International Monetary Fund estimates that clean energy investments generate about 1.5 times their cost in economic activity, while fossil fuels yield less than one-for-one. Renewables do not just pay back; they pay forward through spending on supply chains and local wages.

The numbers are staggering. Between 2017 and 2022, climate finance flows into the 100 largest developing countries (excluding China) boosted their GDP by a combined US$1.2 trillion (0.9 trillion)the equivalent of 2%5% of GDP for most nations. In Brazil, the host of COP30, renewable investments raised GDP by US$128 billion over those six years, according to our report.

Climate finance flows are still insufficient. To increase them, we need more concessional funding, more risk guarantees and more partnerships between governments, investors and local communities.

In the Dominican Republic, a blend of policy reform, clear incentives and blended finance has helped the country mobilize over US$6.5 billion in clean energy investment and double its renewables capacity in just three years.

The energy transition is often painted as a jobs killer, but the evidence says otherwise. Intergovernmental organizations project that there will be 43 million clean energy jobs by 2050, far outstripping those lost in fossil fuels.

For our report, we took a closer look at the jobs market in South Africa. For 12 months we collected data from job adverts and found a striking fact: clean energy jobs pay 16% more on average than all other advertised roles. For the most part the higher wages reflect the fact that clean energy jobs are high-skilled jobs, which require experience, training and problem-solving skills.

The high skills requirements are a challenge as well as a boon. Taking full advantage of the clean jobs revolution will require proactive skills development, both in the classroom and on the job. But for the young labor forces of many developing countries, the message is clear: renewables are not just a climate strategy, they are a job opportunity.

Perhaps the most underappreciated economic benefit of renewables concerns productivity. Cheap, efficient energy is the lifeblood of industrial growth. Renewable energy is now much cheaper than fossil fuels, particularly when factoring in what is lost when turning energy (say, car fuel) into usable services (propulsion).

We calculated that with a rapid conversion to renewables, energy-sector productivity could double by 2050, compared to both current levels and a fossil fuel future. Since energy is such a ubiquitous input to all other economic activities, this has significant economy-wide benefits. For some developing countries, the GDP boost could be as high as 9%12%simply from having more efficient energy services.

These productivity gains are not evenly distributed. For once, it could be developing countries that benefit most. Industrialized countries grew rich on the back of cheap and abundant energy. In a low-carbon economy, it will be sun-rich developing countries that have the cheapest, most abundant sources of energy. This critical shift in comparative advantage could finally help to narrow the global prosperity gap.

At COP30, leaders are debating climate targets, finance mechanisms and transition timelines. But they should also recognize this deeper reality: renewables are not a drag on growth but its new engine. In a world anxious about growth and prosperity, the clean energy transition is an economic strategy as much as an environmental one.

The challenge, as our report reminds us, is to share these gains equitably. Without fair benefit-sharing the transition risks repeating the inequities of the fossil fuel era. But get it right, and renewables can power not just cleaner economies, but fairer ones.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
The U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) on Friday announced that five individuals have pleaded guilty to assisting North Korea's illicit revenue generation schemes by enabling information technology (IT) worker fraud in violation of international sanctions.

The five individuals are listed below -

Audricus Phagnasay, 24

Jason Salazar, 30

Alexander Paul Travis, 34

Oleksandr Didenko, 28, and

Erick Ntekereze Prince, 30

Phagnasay, Salazar, and Travis pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud conspiracy for knowingly allowing IT workers located outside of the U.S. to use their U.S. identities between about September 2019 and November 2022 and secure jobs at American firms.

The three defendants also served as facilitators, hosting the company-issued laptops at their residences and installing remote desktop software on those machines without authorization so that the IT workers could connect to them and give the impression that they were working remotely within the U.S.

Furthermore, the trio is said to have aided the overseas IT workers in passing employer vetting procedures, with Salazar and Travis taking it to the next level by appearing for drug testing on behalf of them. Travis, then an active-duty member of the U.S. Army, received at least $51,397 for his role in the fraudulent scheme. Phagnasay and Salazar are said to have earned at least $3,450 and $4,500, respectively.

Didenko, whose arrest was disclosed by the DoJ back in May 2025, has pleaded guilty to wire fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft for stealing the identities of U.S. citizens and selling them to IT workers so that they could land jobs at 40 U.S. companies. Didenko has also agreed to forfeit more than $1.4 million.

"Didenko ran a website using a U.S.-based domain, 'Upworksell.com,' designed to help overseas IT workers buy or rent stolen or borrowed identities," the DoJ said. "Beginning in 2021, the IT workers used the identities to get hired on online freelance work platforms based in California and Pennsylvania."

The Ukrainian national also paid individuals in the U.S. to receive and host laptops, turning their homes into laptop farms for the IT workers. One such laptop farm was operated by Christina Marie Chapman in Arizona. Didenko's site has since been seized. Chapman was sentenced to 8.5 years in prison in July 2025.

Didenko is estimated to have managed as many as 871 proxy identities and facilitated the operation of at least three U.S.-based laptop farms. He also enabled his overseas clients to access Money Service Transmitters rather than having to physically open an account at a U.S. bank to transfer the employment income to foreign bank accounts.

Rounding off the list is Prince, who has pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud conspiracy for allegedly operating a company called Taggcar Inc. from approximately June 2020 through August 2024 to supply "certified" IT workers to U.S. companies and for running a laptop at his home in Florida. Prince earned more than $89,000 for his involvement in the IT worker fraud.

It's worth noting that Prince, along with Pedro Ernesto Alonso De Los Reyes, Emanuel Ashtor, and Jin Sung-Il (), Pak Jin-Song (), were indicted earlier this January for allegedly allowing North Korean IT workers to obtain work at more than 64 U.S. companies.

The scheme netted more than $943,069 in salary payments, most of which were funneled back to the IT workers overseas. Ashtor is currently awaiting trial, and De Los Reyes is pending extradition from the Netherlands.

"In total, these defendants' fraudulent employment schemes impacted more than 136 U.S. victim companies, generated more than $2.2 million in revenue for the [Democratic People's Republic of Korea] regime, and compromised the identities of more than 18 U.S. persons," the DoJ said.

In a set of related actions, the DoJ said it has also filed two civil complaints to forfeit cryptocurrency valued at more than $15 million that the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) seized in March 2025 from APT38 (aka BlueNoroff) actors. The digital assets, the complaints allege, were illegally obtained through hacks at overseas virtual currency platforms -

Theft of approximately $37 million from an Estonia-based virtual currency payments processor in July 2023

Theft of approximately $100 million from a Panama-based virtual currency payment processor in July 2023

Theft of approximately $138 million from a Panama-based virtual currency exchange in November 2023, and

Theft of approximately $107 million in virtual currency from a Seychelles-based virtual currency exchange in November 2023

"Efforts to trace, seize, and forfeit related stolen virtual currency remain ongoing, as the APT38 actors continue to launder such funds through various virtual currency bridges, mixers, exchanges, and over-the-counter traders," the department added.

The new round of guilty pleas is the latest effort on the part of the U.S. government to combat and disrupt North Korea's IT worker and hacking schemes, which have been used to fund the regime's priorities. For several years, North Korea has successfully infiltrated hundreds of Western companies and elsewhere, posing as remote IT workers to draw steady salaries and use them to fund its nuclear weapons program.

A couple of weeks ago, the U.S. Treasury Department levied sanctions against eight individuals and two entities within North Korea's global financial network for laundering money for various illicit schemes, including cybercrime and IT worker fraud.
When The American Revolution unfolds this month on PBS, dont get the idea that you werent told the truth in elementary school.

What I learned in school was not wrong, says director David Schmidt. It was just incomplete.

In the decade that Schmidt, Sarah Botstein and Ken Burns have been working on the 12-hour documentary, theyve found plenty of information that didnt get the same exposure as urban myths.

Theres a lot of superficiality to the way we teach any kind of history and it sometime migrates, as certainly the revolution has, into mythology, Burns says.

Doing exhaustive research, the filmmakers were able to get a more complete story. They didnt subscribe to one perspective or interpretation, Burns says. We just are calling balls and strikes. Weve got a complicated story because thats the way life is.

Burns, in fact, considers the American Revolution the most important event since the birth of Christ. This is our story. Its our creation story.

Throughout the six-part film, the documentarians show how violent  and tenuous  the battle was.

This is a revolution  a bloody, bloody revolution, superimposed by a bloody civil war superimposed by a bloody world war, Burns says. The cast of characters is extraordinary. George Washington didnt know he was going to be George Washington. The sense of contingency and the idea that it might not turn out the way we know was the surprising aspect for us to try to work into our work.

Schmidt says independence wasnt the goal at the beginning of the war.

The war at its start was about standing up to tyranny, liberating Boston, restoring things to the way they used to be under the British Empire," Schmidt says. "Its only (through) the course of war that makes independence, union and republic necessary."

Those lesser-known aspects of the revolution are what excite, Botstein says. To capture the different takes on history, the filmmakers engaged different generations of scholars talking to each other.

We want history to be a conversation, she says. We want history to poke a hole at things we dont typically learn about. We want to celebrate our achievements, look squarely at our failures and make the history both exciting and real.

Diverse vocal talents (including familiar participants such as Peter Coyote and Tom Hanks) play the various names most associate with the revolution.

That helps convey the multitude of takes that have surfaced in the years since the Declaration of Independence was signed.

A lot of that has to do with the work people have done in the last 50 years, since the bicentennial, to surface more information about more people, digitizing documents, Schmidt says. Its a lot easier for us to find what anybody had to say.

Voices were important, because there werent photographs or films to illustrate the story, as they were for Burns Vietnam War.

As were doing it, we let the material talk to us and determine (the projects) length, Burns says. Because were artists, were trying to impose a dramatic structure. At the same time, facts always have to win.

While we keep learning things, our cutting room floor is necessarily filled with good scenes that just didnt fit. There were, as you remember from the movie, Amadeus, too many notes."
After nearly 84 years, the USS Arizonas unknowns could be one step closer to being known again.

A civilian-led effort called Operation 85 has reached its goal of collecting enough DNA samples from the living relatives of the battleships crew to prompt the Defense Department to consider reexamining dozens of unidentified servicemen who were buried in Hawaii after the Pearl Harbor attack.

Most of the 1,177 sailors and Marines killed on the USS Arizona on Dec. 7, 1941, were entombed inside the ship when it sank.

Only 105 bodies were recovered and identified. Those who could not be identified were buried as unknowns, some in mass graves.

Virginia real estate agent Kevin Kline launched USS Arizona Operation 85 in April of 2023 in honor of his great-uncle, Robert Kline, a gunners mate second class who died on the Arizona at the age of 22. The sole mission of the all-volunteer project: to identify as many of the unknowns as possible.

To have unknown on a grave when we have the technology to know  that just doesnt sit right with me, Kline said.

Under Defense Department policy, DNA samples must be collected from the relatives of at least 60% of the ships unrecovered crew before the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency will consider disinterring remains for possible identification.

Kline and company believe they officially hit that mark last month, when the number of Arizona crewmen represented by so-called family reference samples surpassed 643.

As of Friday, that total stood at 661, thanks almost entirely to Operation 85s campaign to track down nearly 1,400 descendants of the Arizona crew and talk them into submitting their DNA to the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System.

Among those convinced to participate was the nephew of 17-year-old James Van Horn, the only Tucsonan to die on the USS Arizona.

More than 85

We have had overwhelming interest. Of the 1,395 surviving family members weve connected with, only 12 said they had no interest in participating and providing a DNA sample, Kline said.

Four others died before their sample kits could be returned, and about 125 descendants had to be turned away, either because they were too distantly related to be used for identification or their link to the crewmember could not be confirmed by Operation 85s genealogist.

The group adopted the number 85 as part of its name because thats how many unidentified Arizona crew members were thought to be buried at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, which overlooks Honolulu from the volcanic heart of Punchbowl Crater.

Since then, Kline said, he has learned the true number could be well over 100, and that some of the men might not have been buried with their fellow Arizona crew members.

There is also a chance that the graves dedicated to the USS Arizona contain the remains of men from other ships as well, he said. Who knows, we could find another sailor from the Oklahoma or somewhere else.

The effort is focused solely on the graves of the unknowns at the Punchbowl. The sunken battleship itself is considered a national shrine and will not be disturbed.

Now that Operation 85 has surpassed the 643-man threshold, Kline said the next step is to schedule a meeting with top-ranking Navy officials to lobby for the identification process to begin.

We were going to do it in October, but October came and went. Now were hoping for (a meeting in) November, he said.

DNA is "a key line of evidence" used by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency to account for the missing, so gathering genetic reference samples from relatives is "crucial to this effort," said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. George Tobias, the agency's chief of public affairs.

"It is laudable that Operation 85 embarked on collecting them from the families of USS Arizona crewmen and have progressed as they have," Tobias said in an email Saturday.

Kline and his team aren't finished, either. He said they plan to keep searching for more surviving descendants of the Arizona crew and adding to the number of DNA samples on file.

"The goal is to identify everybody," Kline said.

Back on board

Already, the group has dramatically exceeded expectations, accomplishing in less than three years a task that Defense officials predicted would take paid military staff members as much as a decade.

A 2022 report by the Department of the Navy estimated it would cost roughly $2.7 million just to locate, contact and collect DNA samples from surviving relatives of the ships crew. The document concluded that identifying the Arizona unknowns was feasible but would require significant resources and an inordinate amount of time.

Basically, Kline said, the Navy spent $83,000 to write a report detailing why the work couldnt easily be done, then Operation 85 went out and did it for around $70,000.

Whatever the grassroots effort may have lacked in funding, it more than made up for through the sheer determination of its volunteer staff, which has grown to include a forensic genealogist, two research analysts and the ever-available Kline himself.

Ive picked up the phone on Christmas. Ive picked up the phone while in line at Hersheypark (amusement park), waiting to ride a rollercoaster with my kids, he said.

Along the way, Operation 85 has worked with the Navy to streamline its process for accepting genetic samples from the relatives of missing service members, Kline said. The Marine Corps already had a user-friendly process in place, so all it took to get the Navy on board was basically me saying good things about the Marines over and over again, he explained with a laugh.

Kline and his team have also helped track down the personnel files and dental records for hundreds of Arizona crew members to aid with the process of identifying any remains that might eventually be exhumed.

As word has gotten around about the success of the project, Kline said family members of the missing from other conflicts have contacted him to ask, How are you doing this? How are you breaking through?

The effort got a huge head start early on, thanks to Tucson journalist Bobbie Jo Buel. The former Arizona Daily Star editor spent more than five years of her own researching the crew by scouring newspaper archives and public records and collecting snapshots and personal letters from relatives of the men.

The profiles that Buel compiled for every sailor and Marine who died on the battleship are now housed on the Operation 85 website, and her notes proved instrumental as the team set out to find the crews blood relatives.

Robert Edwin Kline already has a memorial headstone at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia  placed there at the request of surviving family members about 20 years ago, in the absence of a marked grave anywhere else.

If the gunners mate is one of the unknowns who ends up being identified as a result of Operation 85, his great-nephew said his family has already chosen a final resting place for the young mans remains. They want him to be entombed alongside his shipmates inside the sunken Arizona.

He joined the Navy at 17 and died at 22, Kline said. The majority of his adult life was spent on that ship. Let him go back there.
Captain Huynh Do Tan Thinh from the HCMC Police Criminal Department.

Not long ago, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine in HCMC received a report from the family of a sixth-year student who was scammed out of nearly VND7 billion in just a few days.

According to the report, on May 23, the student called his mother, saying he had been selected to join an international student exchange program in Germany and needed a bank statement to prove financial capacity. Trusting their child, the family repeatedly transferred money, totaling nearly VND7 billion.

At first, the student sent a statement showing he was among the top 10 candidates for a scholarship, but not yet in the top five with the highest financial scores. The parents continued sending more money so that he could qualify for the study abroad program. But when they checked later, all the money in the students account had disappeared. The family could no longer contact the student, and he was not at his rented room or internship hospital as planned.

The story shocked the medical student community, where most young people focus on studying and are often unaware of sophisticated online scams.

Beyond financial losses, recent cases show signs of manipulation to lure students away from their residences, potentially leading to trafficking abroad.

Between September 17 and 20, two freshmen from the Vietnam Aviation Academy lost contact with their families and were found in Tay Ninh, near the Cambodian border, confused and under pressure from strangers. Fortunately, with swift cooperation between authorities, the university, and the families, both students were found safe.

Earlier in February, a third-year student from the same academy was scammed out of VND500 million after joining a 2025 Australian government exchange scholarship program. All documents, letters, and seals were professionally forged using formal administrative language, leading the victim to fully believe it was legitimate.

The Vietnam Aviation Academy immediately issued an emergency alert to students and parents, warning them not to trust unverified international programs. Official information about scholarships, overseas study, or job opportunities is posted only on the universitys website, verified fanpage, or through academic advisors. The school also launched an early warning system and an online support channel to protect students.

Emotional manipulation

At a recent seminar titled Identifying and Combating Fake News in the AI Era held at HCMC University of Transport, Captain Huynh Do Tan Thinh from the HCMC Police Criminal Department warned about increasingly sophisticated scams targeting young people, especially students.

Scammers often start with emotional messages like: I just moved to the city, Im lonely, can we be friends? From seemingly harmless chats, they gradually gain the victims trust, send photos or videos, and then suggest transferring money, buying cards, investing, or joining attractive scholarship or job programs, said Captain Thinh.

According to Thinh, these scams exploit psychological and social factors, the need for affection, recognition, or the dream of a better life. Once trust is gained, scammers easily manipulate emotions and lead victims into financial traps.

Besides fake scholarship schemes, scammers also impersonate recruiters offering easy jobs with high pay, distribute malware links, or send gambling messages to take control of phones and personal data, using victims contacts to target others in a friend list.

As scams spread rapidly, many universities in HCMC, such as the University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam Aviation Academy, International University (VNU-HCMC), University of Science, and University of Transport, have issued alerts to students about fake scholarship and international exchange programs.

These criminals often impersonate diplomatic offices or international organizations, forge university documents, and send emails or messages inviting students to join study abroad scholarships or exchange programs, asking them to pay fees or provide personal and financial information to steal money.

Nguyen Duc Chien, Secretary of the Youth Union at HCMC University of Transport, said the university once detected a forged scholarship letter that looked professional, complete with a logo and formal administrative style, fooling many students.

Once discovered, the school immediately cooperated with authorities to verify and issue an emergency warning. All official announcements are posted only on the university website and internal communication channels, Chien said.

Captain Thinh advised students to obtain information only from verified sources and avoid relying on social media, where fake news spreads easily, especially through short-form videos.

Le Huyen
A female student is assaulted by classmates in the school restroom. Image taken from the clip

Since the beginning of the 20252026 school year, the public has witnessed a string of shocking school violence cases across the country: a 7th-grade boy at Dai Kim Secondary School (Hanoi) pulling his teachers hair and pushing her head in class; an 11th-grade student fatally stabbing a 12th-grader at Dang Thai Mai High School (Thanh Hoa); a 9th-grader at Phu Cuong Secondary School using a weapon to stab a schoolmate to death; a 10th-grade student in Thanh Hoa dying five days later after a group beating; and a female student at An Dien Secondary School (HCMC) suffering three broken ribs after being attacked in a restroom.

Most recently, on November 7, local media reported that a 9th-grade student at Minh Lac Secondary School (Ha Tinh) was beaten in the head by an 11th-grader and later died.

These incidents reveal a growing problem of school violence that demands urgent and effective solutions.

Widening gaps in character education

While most students today strive to learn and improve, many are gradually losing basic moral values, lacking communication skills, and showing weak motivation. Some talk disrespectfully and challenge teachers when being corrected. Others form groups and use both physical and emotional violence against classmates inside and outside school.

A childs character is shaped by three pillars: family, school, and society. When one of these pillars weakens, a child can easily lose direction.

At home, some parents overindulge their children or are too busy to talk, guide, or discipline them. Some even defend their children when they make mistakes, encouraging irresponsibility and a lack of empathy. Many parents focus only on providing material comfort while neglecting emotional connection. Some spend their limited family time scrolling on their phones instead of engaging with their children.

At school, many teachers are devoted but afraid to discipline students, fearing accusations of unprofessional conduct. Some remain silent. The practice of private tutoring sometimes breeds inequality, causing resentment among students. The obsession with achievement leads schools to handle violations lightly. Since October 31, the strictest disciplinary measure has been a written self-reflection, further weakening school discipline.

In society, any teachers misstep can spark harsh public backlash, making educators even more cautious. Meanwhile, violent and toxic content on social media continues to spread, easily attracting young viewers. Most students own smartphones, and parents struggle to monitor what they use smartphones for.

What can be done

In a world full of negative influences, students easily lose control or react violently when lacking life skills and guidance. Without family care, school supervision, and social direction, they are vulnerable to harmful behavior.

In families, parents must be bright examples from words to behavior. Besides material investment, parents need to be close to children and help children respect elders, love and forgive.

At school, principals and teachers need to help students learn good words and right principles, create conditions for children to integrate collective play, and reduce phone use.

Schools also need to organize many collective movements for children with teachers and friends, and form necessary social communication skills. Experiential activity lessons need focused investment and should avoid formality and superficiality.

For society, authorities should tighten control over violent online content and restrict harmful websites and videos. Communities should create safe, civilized environments and organize youth-friendly programs. Youth unions and organizations must play a stronger role in engaging students in healthy, meaningful activities.

For students with serious behavioral problems but not at a criminal level, authorities should apply corrective educational measures involving families, schools, and local governments. In necessary cases, rehabilitation centers may help redirect behavior through structured guidance.

School violence cannot be solved with temporary reactions after each tragedy. Sustainable solutions require parents, teachers, and communities to act together: caring but firm, compassionate yet disciplined.

Nhat Thu
A long journey for love

True love came to Phung Thi Thu Trang (born 1990, from Phu Tho, now living in Hanoi) when she least expected it. In 2017, she was a single mother of a one-year-old daughter, burdened by debt after a failed business venture.

In the middle of lifes hardships, she met an Indian man 16 years older than her. His warmth and sincerity helped her navigate one of the most turbulent phases of her life. That man was Rajneesh Singh (born 1974), an IT engineer.

Back then, Trang was looking to improve her English, so she joined an app to connect with foreigners. She swiped and matched with Rajneesh.

Initially, they only chatted about work. Trang admitted she was hesitant to message him, as she had a fear of Indian men. But everything changed when she happened to mention her daughter, Sam. Rajneesh, fond of children, immediately expressed a desire to protect and care for the little girl.

He said he could sense my positive energy. Despite my struggles, I didnt complain. He said thats what he admired in women, Trang shared.

After a month of online conversations, Rajneesh flew more than 3,000 kilometers to Vietnam to meet Trang and her daughter. From the very first meeting, she sensed his kindness and sincerity. The gentle way he spoke to and treated baby Sam deeply moved her.

Rajneesh stayed in Vietnam for nearly ten days. Before leaving, he told Trang, I want to adopt Sam. Even if things dont work out between us, I still want to raise her. His words gave Trang a sense of peace.

A marriage across cultures

The couple maintained a long-distance relationship for two years. Every two months, Rajneesh would fly to Vietnam to see Trang. When work got in the way, they would each fly halfway and meet at the transit airport in Thailand.

During their time apart, they messaged and called each other daily. Rajneesh patiently waited for Trang to improve her English so they could communicate more deeply. I went from using translation tools to being able to argue with him in English now, Trang joked.

Rajneeshs background was also marked by hardship. He lost his mother at 13, and years later, his father passed away from cancer. He only has two older sisters - one in India and one settled in the US.

By the time he met Trang in his 40s, Rajneesh was mature enough to make his own decisions about happiness. At first, Trangs family was concerned about cultural and religious differences, but his humble, respectful, and affectionate nature eventually won them over.

In 2019, Rajneesh proposed. They held an intimate party to introduce both families and celebrate their commitment.

A year later, Trang gave birth to their second daughter, further strengthening the bond between them.

After getting married, we lived in Vietnam for two years, then moved to India for one year. Since March 2023, Ive returned to live in Vietnam permanently, so he travels back and forth, Trang said.

When were together, we cherish our time. When were apart, we check in with each other through texts and calls. Were both independently happy people who live positively and have our own hobbies, so being apart isnt too hard, she added.

For the past six years, their marriage has been an enriching fusion of two cultures. Rajneesh enjoys Indian food but limits it to four times a month to suit his wifes preferences. Trang prefers Vietnamese cuisine but still cooks a variety of dishes to please her husband and children.

Trang enjoys a joyful, peaceful life at age 35.

Photos: Courtesy of the family

In our daily life, Ive learned to respect, and hes learned to be flexible. I adapted to the Indian tradition of eating with hands, and he learned to use chopsticks. He mastered chopsticks in just 26 days and really enjoys Vietnamese food, Trang said.

During Indian festivals, I join him in the rituals, and he hasnt missed a single Vietnamese Tet holiday in six years, she added.

Eating with ones right hand was the most surprising cultural experience for Trang when she became a daughter-in-law in India. She admitted the first time felt awkward and unfamiliar, but as Rajneesh explained the cultural and spiritual significance, she gradually came to appreciate it.

Indians believe that the right hand absorbs the energy of the food. After a few meals eaten by hand, I began to feel a deeper connection - not just to the food, but to the earth and to the soul, she said.

Now and then, I eat with my hands alongside my husband as a sign of respect and to preserve his cultural identity.

In raising their children, the couple combines Indian discipline with Vietnamese warmth. Rajneesh, she said, is a devoted and meticulous father. He firmly told Trang never to differentiate between stepchild and biological child. To him, both daughters are his blood and his world.

Being his wife has taught me patience and gratitude. Over the years, Ive lived more slowly and more meaningfully. Ive realized that language and cultural differences are not scary in marriage. As long as both people turn toward each other, everything can be harmonized, Trang reflected.

Thanh Minh
On November 14, meteorological experts confirmed a powerful cold front moving south, bringing with it strong northeasterly winds over the Gulf of Tonkin at levels 7 to 8, gusting up to level 9. Waves in the area are expected to reach heights of 35 meters. Meanwhile, the northern East Sea will see even stronger gusts up to level 10, with 46 meter waves. From Quang Tri to Quang Ngai, coastal waters are forecasted to experience level 67 winds, gusting to levels 89, with waves up to 6 meters high.

In the North and northern Central provinces such as Thanh Hoa and Nghe An, rainfall is expected from November 1718 due to the cold front. After that, the skies will clear, and temperatures will plunge. Nighttime lows will hover around 1215C, with some high-altitude areas falling below 10C. During the day, dry, sunny, and crisp conditions are expected.

"In contrast to the northern chill, provinces from Ha Tinh to Khanh Hoa will see widespread moderate to heavy rain, with totals ranging from 100 to 300mm," a meteorological expert noted. "The heaviest rainfall will occur from Hue to Gia Lai, where totals may reach 250 to 500mm, and locally over 600mm."

Hanoi weather plunges deep into winter conditions

The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting confirmed that, as of November 14, a strong cold air mass is descending from the North.

By November 17, this cold front will affect the northeastern and north-central regions first, then move into the northwest and central-central regions. Northeasterly winds over land will range from levels 34, and level 45 in coastal areas.

Scattered rain is forecasted in the North from November 1718. From the night of November 17, both northern and north-central regions will turn cold, with high-altitude areas likely to see frost. Nighttime lows are expected between 1215C, with mountainous areas dipping below 10C.

In Hanoi, temperatures are forecasted to drop to 1315C starting the night of November 17.

Central Vietnam braces for prolonged downpours

As the cold front combines with disturbances in the upper easterly wind belt, central provinces from Ha Tinh to Khanh Hoa will experience prolonged heavy rainfall.

From the night of November 15 to 16, areas from southern Quang Tri to Da Nang, eastern Quang Ngai to Dak Lak, and Khanh Hoa will receive 60120mm of rain, with localized areas exceeding 200mm.

Northern Quang Tri to Ha Tinh will receive 4070mm of rainfall, while western parts of Quang Ngai to Dak Lak will see 2040mm, locally surpassing 100mm.

There is a warning for potential extreme rainfall intensity (>150mm in 3 hours).

From November 16 to 18, Hue, Da Nang, eastern Quang Ngai, and Gia Lai may see 250500mm of rainfall, with some areas surpassing 600mm.

Ha Tinh to Quang Tri, eastern Dak Lak, and Khanh Hoa are forecasted to receive 100300mm, locally above 400mm. Western areas from Quang Ngai to Dak Lak may see 50100mm, with peaks over 150mm.

Total rainfall for the period of November 1518 is projected as follows:

Hue, Da Nang, eastern Quang Ngai, and Gia Lai: 300600mm, locally above 800mm.

Ha Tinh to Quang Tri, eastern Dak Lak, and Khanh Hoa: 150350mm, locally above 500mm.

Western Quang Ngai to Dak Lak: 70150mm.

From November 19, heavy rainfall will likely persist in Da Nang and areas from Quang Ngai to Khanh Hoa.

In the South, moderate rain and thunderstorms are forecasted from November 1618, with localized heavy rainfall of 50100mm, and some places exceeding 150mm.

Disaster risk alert for rain, lightning, hail, and whirlwinds in Hue, Da Nang, eastern Quang Ngai, and Gia Lai is at level 2.

Heavy rain may lead to flooding in low-lying urban and industrial zones, flash floods in small rivers and streams, and landslides in mountainous regions. Cold weather also poses a threat to livestock and crop growth.

Central rivers on flood watch

As of November 14, water levels on rivers from Quang Tri to Dak Lak remain volatile.

From November 1620, a new flooding event is expected across rivers in this region. Peak flood levels are forecasted to reach warning levels 23 on rivers such as the Bo and Huong (Hue), Vu GiaThu Bon (Da Nang), Tra Khuc and Ve (Quang Ngai), Se San, Kon, and upper Ba (Gia Lai), and lower Ba and Ky Lo (Dak Lak). Some rivers may exceed level 3.

Other rivers, including An Lao, Kien Giang, and Thach Han (Quang Tri), Lai Giang (Gia Lai), and Krong Ana and Srepok (Dak Lak), are expected to reach levels 12, and possibly above level 2.

Authorities warn of possible severe flooding in riverside urban and rural areas across provinces from Quang Tri to Dak Lak. Flash floods and landslides are likely in mountainous and hilly terrains.

Bao Anh
NA deputy Nguyen Hoang Uyen from Tay Ninh (photo: Quoc Hoi).

Under the draft law, one of the measures to sustain fertility rates is financial support for women from ethnic minority groups, women who have two children before age 35, and women living in low-fertility areas.

Other incentives include priority access to purchase or rent social housing under housing laws for women with two children or men with two biological children whose wives have passed away.

NA deputy Nguyen Hoang Uyen from Tay Ninh noted that in reality, implementation, especially for housing support, faces major challenges due to limited resources and budget constraints, particularly in economically disadvantaged areas.

She said current policies do not strongly emphasize the role of men in sharing childcare responsibilities. She proposed that lawmakers revise the regulations to make them more flexible, realistic, and feasible.

In addition, the deputy suggested adding more sustainable and practical policies, such as improving public and private childcare and preschool systems. Uyen emphasized that this would reduce the childcare burden on families and help women, especially working mothers, return to the labor market soon.

The policy of reducing PIT for families with two children is a direct and highly motivating form of support that aligns with trends in some countries facing low fertility rates, she said.

Uyen added that this policy would not only provide financial assistance but also create favorable conditions for women to feel more secure in giving birth and raising children, contributing to population goals.

Regarding financial support for women from ethnic minority groups, the deputy urged careful consideration. In reality, fertility rates among ethnic minorities are already much higher than the national average, while their living conditions remain difficult.

Citing the 2024 socio-economic survey of 53 ethnic minority groups, Uyen noted that fertility among minority women ranges from 4 to 4.3 children per woman, more than double the national average. Infant mortality rates are five to six times higher than the national average, and around 2024 percent of births still occur at home without medical support.

She stressed that the core issue is not unwillingness to have children but rather poor living conditions, limited healthcare, and inadequate access to basic services.

She argued that increasing population in such conditions would not improve quality of life and could even worsen poverty, child mortality, and gender inequality.

Support for women with two children proposed

Deputy To Van Tam from Quang Ngai observed that the concept of women who have two children before age 35 could be interpreted to mean that only these women qualify for financial support, excluding others. He questioned the rationale behind this rule.

It may be intended to encourage childbirth within the reproductive age range to ensure future labor supply, but I find it unreasonable. It is discriminatory toward women who have two children after 35, Tam explained.

He added that many women might wish to have children earlier but delay doing so because of career, financial, or personal circumstances.

"This is not fair for them, he said. A woman who fulfills her role as a mother by having two children should not be denied support just because of her age.

He proposed that support should apply to all women with two children, regardless of age, or that the law should authorize local governments to decide specific eligibility and support mechanisms based on their circumstances.

Another measure in the draft law to maintain replacement fertility is extending parental leave for second births: women would receive one additional month of maternity leave, while men would be entitled to five extra working days off when their wives give birth.

Earlier, on October 23, Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan, authorized by the Prime Minister, submitted the draft Population Law to the National Assembly.

According to the governments report, from 2006 to 2021, Vietnam achieved and maintained replacement fertility levels and a suitable population growth rate, with the national population reaching 101.1 million in 2024.

The country is currently in a golden population period, creating significant advantages for socio-economic development.

The draft law also proposes giving priority to women with two children, or men with two biological children who have no wife or whose wife has passed away, to purchase or rent social housing in accordance with housing laws. The government will stipulate specific details and minimum levels of financial support later.

Thu Hang
Vietnam has set an ambitious goal of achieving double-digit economic growth and reaching high-income status by 2045. To realize this vision, Mariam Sherman, Country Director for the World Bank in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, emphasized at the 2025 Vietnam Business Forum (VBF) that the country must pursue inclusive, sustainable, and fast-paced development - particularly by addressing three major bottlenecks.

These include improving labor productivity, investing in technology and innovation to escape the outsourcing trap, and enhancing infrastructure - especially clean energy - to support long-term growth.

Sherman pointed out that Vietnams investment in research and development remains low, at just 0.5% of GDP. Without rapid technological adoption, Vietnam risks becoming stuck between low-cost competitors and more technologically advanced economies.

A need for clarity and incentives in legal reform

Resolution No. 57 of the Politburo clearly outlines a strategy to develop high-tech industries as a key driver of national industrialization and modernization. It also calls for comprehensive legal and policy frameworks to support research, development, application, and technology transfer.

The proposed revisions to the High-Tech Law are aimed at institutionalizing this vision, providing a clear, stable, and appealing legal foundation for high-tech investment, production, and business activities.

The new draft law includes six chapters and 29 articles - six fewer than the 2008 version (amended in 2013 and 2014) - due to a restructured layout that introduces some formal changes to the current law.

Currently under discussion at the 10th session of the 15th National Assembly, the revised law is expected to promote high-tech production and business investment, and to position science and technology as a key economic growth engine.

Experts have welcomed the governments efforts, noting that high-tech FDI brings not just capital but also advanced technologies, management expertise, and the opportunity for knowledge transfer to local firms.

However, one controversial issue is how to define high-tech enterprises and determine the corresponding incentives.

At present, the high-tech enterprise certification is only valid for five years, and incentives are limited to that period. Many investors argue that this creates instability and discourages them from pursuing long-term, multi-billion-dollar projects with extended technology life cycles.

The latest draft proposes scrapping the certification process and replacing it with self-assessment against legal criteria to reduce administrative procedures. However, this has sparked concern over inconsistent interpretations by regulatory bodies during post-audit inspections, potentially affecting pre-calculated investor benefits.

In a media statement, Bui Ngoc Tuan, Deputy General Director of Tax and Legal Advisory Services at Deloitte Vietnam, explained that the five-year certificate duration makes it difficult for investors to plan large projects spanning 1015 years.

He argued that policy stability and predictability are essential for attracting high-tech FDI.

Tuan proposed keeping the certification process but making it more flexible - for example, by extending its validity, using digital evaluation tools, or conducting periodic risk-based reviews.

He also noted that countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and India still maintain high-tech enterprise certification, viewing it not only as a management tool but also as a competency badge that boosts credibility in global value chains.

Foreign businesses call for consistency and fairness

Speaking on the proposed revisions, Ko Tae Yeon, Chairman of Kocham, said the draft law under parliamentary consideration is of critical importance, serving as a foundation for promoting innovation and strengthening Vietnams national industrial capacity.

He described the law as a core pillar for Vietnams future high-tech economy.

However, Ko and the Korean business community are concerned that some revisions may reduce or alter existing incentive policies guaranteed under previous investment agreements.

If the revisions result in narrower incentive coverage or reduced competitiveness, it could negatively impact Vietnams medium- and long-term development goals - including expanded FDI, technology transfer, and the cultivation of high-quality human capital, Ko warned.

He emphasized that the revised law must not undermine the motivation of FDI enterprises. The revision process, he stressed, should be rational, balanced, and consistent to avoid destabilizing the investment environment.

Nguyen Le
On the afternoon of November 14 (local time), at the Vietnamese Embassy in Washington D.C., Minister Nguyen Hong Dien met with U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, Jacob Helberg.

During the meeting, Minister Dien reaffirmed Vietnams consistent policy of expanding cooperation with the U.S. in high-tech sectors - a strategic move aligned with the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership framework between the two countries.

Minister Nguyen Hong Dien meets with U.S. Under Secretary of State Jacob Helberg.

Vietnam is targeting science, technology, and innovation-driven growth, aiming for an annual growth rate above 10% in the next decade. Within that strategy, cooperation with the U.S. in artificial intelligence (AI), advanced technology, and tech ecosystem development is considered both appropriate and necessary.

The Minister emphasized that Vietnam had shown clear goodwill during trade negotiations, facilitating favorable outcomes for the U.S. and its partners. He expressed Vietnams hope for a rational and flexible approach from the U.S., appropriate to the nature of the strategic partnership.

Minister Dien proposed that the U.S. remove Vietnam from its D1 and D3 control lists, which restrict high-tech product exports, and formally recognize Vietnam as a market economy. These moves, he noted, would lay a stronger foundation for future cooperation.

Under Secretary Helberg acknowledged Vietnams proactive stance, particularly its initiative in AI cooperation. He reiterated the U.S. commitment to collaborating with Vietnam across areas such as security, energy, logistics, supply chains, and manufacturing.

He recalled previous discussions with Minister Dien in Malaysia and emphasized the importance of building a leading-edge tech ecosystem and mechanisms to protect core industries, particularly semiconductors and AI.

Helberg described Vietnam as a strategic manufacturing hub with great potential to contribute to U.S. high-tech development.

He welcomed Vietnams proposals and confirmed that he would report them to senior leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump.

Helberg also highlighted two parallel approaches: advancing a reciprocal trade agreement and expanding strategic cooperation in economic security, supply chains, and technology. He proposed developing common principles as the foundation for sector-specific MOUs and pilot projects.

Progress made in fifth round of reciprocal trade agreement negotiations

Minister Dien reaffirms Vietnams commitment to expanding high-tech cooperation with the U.S.

Under Secretary Helberg praises Vietnams initiative in AI collaboration.
As part of an active series of high-level diplomatic engagements, this mission holds significant importance both bilaterally and multilaterally.

South Africa, the host of the 2025 G20 Summit, is the largest economy in Africa and a key member of the BRICS bloc. Algeria, currently a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 20242025 term, maintains one of the most profound relationships with Vietnam in the region. Kuwait is serving as the 2025 Chair of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

On the bilateral front, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Hang affirmed that Vietnam enjoys strong, friendly, and cooperative relations with Kuwait, Algeria, and South Africa.

This trip is a chance for Vietnam to enhance connectivity with three strategic destinations in the region. It aims not only to elevate and deepen Vietnams ties with these nations but also to shape a new vision for Vietnam's engagement with the Middle EastAfrica region.

Vietnam and all three countries share a renewed sense of purpose on their development journeys. Nations in the Middle EastAfrica region regard Vietnam as a model of successful reform and growth and as a country increasingly contributing to global affairs with responsibility and initiative.

The Prime Ministers visit sends a clear message about Vietnams high regard for strengthening ties with its partners and the region. It promises to usher in a new phase of deeper, more strategic, and practical cooperation.

Prime Minister to propose key initiatives at G20

On the multilateral front, Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Minh Hang noted that this marks the second consecutive year Vietnam has been invited to attend the G20 Summit.

According to the Deputy Minister, the invitation reflects strong recognition of Vietnam's growing international prestige and influence, as well as high regard from G20 members for Vietnam's development achievements and its active, responsible contributions to global issues.

Participation in the G20 provides Vietnam with an opportunity to reaffirm its consistent foreign policy of being a reliable partner in the international community and a willing contributor to solving global challenges.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh will present key assessments and proposals to help shape a fair, inclusive, and sustainable international economic order and global economic governance system. On the sidelines of the summit, he will also meet with leaders of various countries and international organizations.

South Africa was the first African country to establish a partnership for cooperation and development with Vietnam. Kuwait was the first GCC member to establish diplomatic ties with Vietnam in 1976. Algeria has long been a traditional and loyal friend of Vietnam throughout the 65 years of diplomatic relations, consistently offering support and solidarity.

In terms of politics, Vietnam has built strong foundations of trust with all three countries, forming a solid basis for advancing bilateral cooperation in the future.

In economic terms, South Africa, Kuwait, and Algeria are all major trade partners for Vietnam in the Middle EastAfrica region.

South Africa is Vietnam's largest trading partner in Africa. Kuwait is one of Vietnams top commercial partners in the Middle East and an important partner in official development assistance (ODA) and energy. Algeria holds significant investment potential, exemplified by the highly successful Bir Seba oil project operated by PetroVietnam Exploration Production Corporation (PVEP) in Algeria.

Cooperation in other sectors - including defense, security, agriculture, and biodiversity conservation - has also yielded notable results.

Deputy Minister Nguyen Minh Hang emphasized that the Prime Ministers trip is expected to elevate Vietnams relations with these countries to a new level, producing tangible outcomes in trade, investment, industry, minerals, logistics, green supply chains, and innovation.

We aim to establish priority corridors that facilitate smooth flows of capital, technology, goods, and skilled labor, creating new opportunities for Vietnamese businesses in key sectors, she noted.

In addition, we will promote people-to-people exchanges and cooperation in culture, education, labor, and tourism, as well as foster connections with the Vietnamese diaspora in these three countries.

At the G20 Summit, invited by South Africa as the G20 President, the Prime Minister will deliver a policy address focusing on several key areas, contributing to global efforts to promote economic growth, reduce risks, and strengthen cooperation in strategic sectors such as minerals, energy, trade system reform, global finance, and investment.

Tran Thuong
Scheduled for December 8  14 across Europe, the event aims to celebrate Pho Day on December 12, and promote Vietnamese culinary culture and spread the Southeast Asian nations traditional dish worldwide, said Mai Hai Lam, a Vietnamese in Poland, and chairman of the "We Love Pho" network.

The event will offer a chance for overseas Vietnamese and international friends to enjoy a variety of Pho dishes, including traditional beef Pho, chicken Pho, Pho rolls, mixed Pho, and vegetarian Pho, as well as modern adaptations suited to international tastes.

Participating units are encouraged to create displays showcasing images and documents on the history and development of Vietnamese Pho; offer live cooking demonstrations; and host interactions with renowned chefs and culinary experts.

Lam said that the programme aims to promote Vietnamese culinary culture worldwide, thus introducing one of Vietnams iconic dishes to international friends, and strengthening connections within the overseas Vietnamese community abroad.

According to Lam, in recent years, Vietnamese Pho has repeatedly been recognised as one of the worlds most delicious and famous dishes, named among the best 30 dishes of the world in 2018, the most delicious 10 soups in the world in 2021, and the 100 most popular dishes worldwide in 2022.

SCOVA Chairman Nguyen Trung Kien said culture has always served as a strong bridge, connecting Vietnamese communities around the world and fostering mutual understanding and people-to-people exchange. He noted that culinary culture in general, and Pho in particular, is a source of national pride, helping shape Vietnams identity in the eyes of the international friends.

Kien said he supports the initiative to organise the week, expressing his hope that the event will be successful, creating wide-reaching impact across Europe and across the world. He stated that the committee will accompany and support associations and groups in preserving and promoting Vietnams cultural identity and value, including the "We Love Pho" network.

The "We Love Pho" network was established in Brussels in June 2025, gathering OVs from across Europe, including Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and the UK. Its mission is to promote and preserve Vietnams culinary culture, with Pho as its central symbol. It works to connect the overseas Vietnamese community with local residents through cuisine./.VNA
Once a quiet island of mangroves and fishing villages, Long Son, the newly enlarged coastal commune of HCM City, is now transforming into a dynamic industrial zone  a place where traditional livelihoods meet the promise of green industry.

Located between the bustling tourism city of Vung Tau and the Cai Mep -Thi Vai deep-sea port cluster, Long Son was long isolated by rivers and wetlands.

For generations, its residents relied on small-scale fishing and traditional salt-making  their lives shaped by the rhythm of tides rather than trade.

The construction of key bridges  Ba Nanh in 2000, Go Gang in 2008, and Cha Va in 2011  marked a turning point, connecting the island to the mainland and opening the door to transformation.

Covering 56.7 square kilometres and home to nearly 17,800 residents, Long Son officially became a commune incorporated into HCM City in July 2025.

With its strategic location near major waterways leading to Ganh Rai Bay and the Cai Mep - Thi Vai Port Complex, the commune has been identified by both central and local authorities as a key area for national defence and industrial development  particularly in refining, petrochemicals, and supporting industries.

Fuel for growth

At the heart of Long Sons transformation stands the Long Son Petrochemical Complex (LSP), developed by Thailands Siam Cement Group (SCG)  a project that redefines the skyline and ambitions of this once-sleepy island.

This national key project, launched in 2018, represents an investment of US$5.4 billion across 464ha.

Despite pandemic challenges, the complex was completed on schedule in 2023, began trial operations in early 2024, and resumed full commercial operations in August 2025 after a brief market-related suspension.

During a working visit in September, Nguyen Van uoc, chairman of HCM City Peoples Committee (the municipal government body), praised SCGs commitment to innovation and sustainability.

He reaffirmed the citys goal of developing Long Son into a green and modern petrochemical centre in the South and encouraged SCG to continue contributing to this vision.

According to Kullachet Dharachandra, SCG country director in Viet Nam and CEO of LSP, the company is investing an additional $500 million to build an ethane storage and supply system to diversify feedstocks and reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.

Once fully operational, the complex is expected to generate about $800 million in export revenue annually and contribute roughly $150 million in taxes to Viet Nams state budget.

Aligned with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, LSP has also organised community programmes to support education, healthcare, and cultural preservation while promoting environmental protection across the commune.

Shaping a green future

Nguyen Tan Cuong, secretary of Long Son Communes Communist Party Committee, said the commune was updating its master plan to align with the citys post-merger development orientation, prioritising digital transformation and land clearance for major projects such as the 850ha Long Son Oil and Gas Industrial Park and the Nguyen Phong Sac Road expansion.

Long Sons natural landscape  mangrove swamps, interlaced rivers, the culturally significant Ong Tran religion, and Nha Lon heritage complex  provides an ideal foundation for integrating eco-tourism with industrial growth.

Commune leaders envision Long Son as an eco-industrial and coastal urban zone that harmonises green industry, culture, and nature.

Nguyen Trong Thuy, chairman of the communes Peoples Committee (the local government body), said its later urbanisation gave Long Son the advantage of building more systematically and sustainably.

Our revised planning focuses on protecting natural resources, adapting to climate change, and ensuring harmony between development and preservation, he said.

Under the new plan, the commune will conserve mangrove forests, develop a low-carbon eco-urban area on Go Gang Island, and maintain traditional village clusters interwoven with modern urban spaces.

Cultural heritage sites such as Nha Lon, inh Than, Mieu Ba, and Long Son Pagoda, along with local festivals, will continue to be protected.

The commune is also witnessing strong investment momentum. New projects include the nearly VN2 trillion ($76 million) Long Son International Port and a VN240 billion ($9.1 million) industrial gas plant, both contributing to local economic growth and job creation.

Infrastructure upgrades  including Long Son - Cai Mep, Nguyen Phong Sac, and 28 April streets  are nearing completion.

The upcoming Go Gang 2 and Cha Va 2 bridges will further improve regional connectivity, linking Long Son with the Cai Mep - Ha Free Trade Zone, nearby industrial parks, and coastal tourism destinations in Vung Tau, Long Hai, and Ho Tram.

As Long Sons comprehensive socio-economic picture takes shape, its vision of becoming a green industrial hub grows clearer.

With its revolutionary history and distinctive Ong Tran cultural heritage, the commune is steadily advancing towards its goal of becoming a modern, harmonious, and sustainable petrochemical centre in the southern region. VNS
Tay Ninh Province aims for rapid, dynamic and sustainable development in 202530, seeking to join the list of the country's top 10 provinces and cities in terms of economic scale and growth.

It is targeting average GRDP growth of 1010.5 per cent a year during the period and per capita income of US$8,0008,500, an urbanisation rate of above 50 per cent, and the reduction of poverty under new criteria by 2030.

In 202125 it grew by 6.73 per cent annually. In the first nine months of 2025 growth was 9.52 per cent, the highest among southern provinces.

By the end of this year the economy is expected to reach VN352 trillion (US$13.36 billion), the 10th largest in the country, with per capita income of $4,770.

Over the last five years, tourism has emerged as a new economic pillar, driven by Ba en Mountains transformation into an international-level destination.

Social welfare has also improved, with old houses rebuilt, tuition fees waived, and a poverty rate among the countrys lowest.

Following the merger of Long An Province into Tay Ninh on July 1, the expanded province now spans 8,536 sq.km.

The merger of the two provinces has created new strength and opportunities, expanding development space," said Nguyen Van Quyet, secretary of the provincial Communist Party Committee.

Tay Ninh not only connects the southeastern region with HCM City and ong Nai Province but also serves as a gateway linking the Mekong Delta with Cambodia and ASEAN. This is a major advantage for developing industry, hi-tech agriculture, tourism, logistics, and import-export.

Industry-led orientation

The province has more than 37,000 operating businesses and has attracted over $24 billion in FDI.

It has 46 industrial parks and 50 clusters, with more than 1,000ha of land ready for investors.

According to Nguyen Van Ut, chairman of its Peoples Committee (the provincial government body), the province remains firmly committed to an industry-led orientation.

By 2030 it plans to have 59 industrial parks and 82 clusters covering 21,300ha, focusing on large-scale, high-tech and green projects.

With nearly 600,000ha of farmland, Tay Ninh also aims to become one of southern Viet Nams leading high-tech agricultural centres.

The province is accelerating administrative reform and building a transparent, investor-friendly environment.

Yet it still faces infrastructure and digital challenges, calling for stronger IT capacity and faster digital transformation.

To meet the 202530 targets Tay Ninh has identified three key priorities: reforming administration and developing high-quality human resources; advancing science, technology, innovation, and green transformation; and mobilising resources for major infrastructure.

It also prioritises tourism development and strategic sectors such as high-tech agriculture, supporting industries, and logistics  all vital to creating jobs, raising incomes and attracting investment.

Building connections

In 202530 the province will invest VN35 trillion ($1.3 billion) in transport infrastructure, focusing on links with HCM City and neighbouring provinces, and between its two merged localities.

The province plans several major roads with at least eight to 10 lanes. Only when it is well connected can Tay Ninh truly become the regions trade hub, Chairman Ut said.

Resources are being prioritised to complete strategic routes, expressways and ring roads, ensuring seamless connectivity from industrial zones to seaports.

It will also make efficient use of Long An International Port, a 70,000 DWT facility, to expand logistics and maritime trade.

Tay Ninh views quality human resources as the golden key to achieving industrialisation and modernisation, especially after the administrative merger and adoption of a two-tier government model.

With a population of nearly 3.3 million, it aims by 2030 for 80 per cent of its workforce to be trained, with 35 per cent holding degrees or certificates.

However, challenges remain, including a labour-market mismatch and uneven staff quality, particularly at the commune level.

The province is prioritising training young and female officials, improving digital and foreign-language skills.

It has launched a State-institutes-enterprises partnership model to align training with real market needs, offering internships, job opportunities and industry-linked education.

Alongside administrative streamlining, Tay Ninh seeks to improve its business climate and boost ranking in governance, competitiveness, and citizen satisfaction indexes.

Ut said the province would roll out policies to attract investment in high-tech industries, agriculture and smart urban development.

Pushing digital frontiers

Huynh Thi Hong Nhung, director of the provincial Department of Science and Technology, said: With strong direction from provincial leaders and active participation of all sectors and levels, Tay Ninh has built a relatively firm foundation for digital government, economy and society.

All administrative agencies now use digital management systems and online public services.

Fibre-optic Internet covers 99 per cent of households, while 5G infrastructure is available in nearly half of all rural communes and urban wards, and in 50 per cent of industrial zones and clusters.

The Tay Ninh Smart platform and hotline 1022 allow two-way communication between citizens and the government. Around 93 per cent of social welfare beneficiaries now receive payments through bank accounts.

Implementing the Politburos Resolution 57 (December 2024) on science-technology development, Tay Ninh targets by 2030 to have its digital economy account for 30 per cent of GRDP, ranking among Viet Nam's top 10 provinces in digital transformation.

It plans to allocate at least 3 per cent of its annual budget to science, technology and digital transformation.

The province also emphasises green growth, promoting clean agriculture, renewable energy and effective waste management  ensuring that progress remains both digital and sustainable. VNS
LAM ONG  Two 32-year-old ethnic minority entrepreneurs from the southern province of Lam ong are turning backyard cocoa into a chocolate empire called Ban Cacao, now shipping premium bars, butter and powder worldwide.

The brand has just secured a three-star provincial rating under Viet Nams One Commune, One Product initiative.

Founders Luong Thi Duyen, a law school graduate, and Be Thi Thu Huyen, trained in finance and accounting, first connected while working in HCM City. Huyen's early foray into online cocoa sales ignited the spark for the pair to return to their hometown and launch a cocoa enterprise.

Cocoa has been widely cultivated in their hometown thanks to a 2009 State-backed project, but falling prices and limited processing capacity left most growers offloading raw beans or fresh pods to middlemen.

We kept questioning why such prime raw material should fetch rock-bottom prices instead of becoming a product that embodies our hometown, Duyen reflected.

Determined to change that, the duo crisscrossed Viet Nam, from Ben Tre and Tien Giang to Vung Tau, to master the art of cocoa processing. They pored over manuals in Vietnamese and English before acquiring equipment and heading back to rural Cat Tien District, as the COVID-19 pandemic broke out in 2020, to pioneer a business in their homeland.

In 2023, they formally established Ban Cacao Co Ltd in Cat Tien 2 Commune in Lam ong Province.

At first, local farmers were reluctant to sell to them. Many worried the fledgling outfit would flop, jeopardising their longstanding trader ties. To win trust, the pair went door-to-door, offered prices VN5001,000 per kg above market rates, and opened their workshop for inspection.

Bit by bit, partners signed on. Now, 15 households deliver 23 tonnes of cocoa weekly, rising to 45 tonnes in peak season.

The path was far from easy. Initial trials often failed, draining time and capital.

There were nights we stayed up, just hoping the first batch would set, Huyen recalled. They worked late into the night preparing for trade fairs in a Lat, determined to make the brand known.

Now, Ban Cacao churns out over 15 chocolate bar flavours and assorted cocoa grades, from 72 per cent to 100 per cent, alongside cocoa butter and powder. Offerings stock shelves in Ha Noi, a Lat, Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc and Nha Trang, plus e-commerce sites like Shopee, Lazada, Facebook and TikTok.

From scrappy origins, Ban Cacao has matured into a solid operation, keeping more than 20 local ethnic minority staff on stable wages. The venture even clinched a top prize in Lam ong's 2022 "Creative Startup Ideas" contest.  VNA/VNS
HCM CITY  Poland is seeking to strengthen agricultural and food trade with Viet Nam and deepen ties between businesses from both countries, Polish officials said at a press conference and business meeting in HCM City on November 14.

The event was part of the Taste Europe  Discover the Flavours of Europe! campaign promoting high-quality European food products.

Piotr Harasimowicz, chief representative officer of the Polish Investment and Trade Agency in HCM City, noted that EUViet Nam trade and investment relations have steadily expanded since diplomatic ties were established in 1996. Poland is among Viet Nams most active EU trading partners.

Food-related products dominate trade between Poland and Viet Nam. In the first half of 2025, Polands agricultural exports to Viet Nam exceeded 115 million (US$133.8 million), including nearly 106 million (US$122.9 million) from live animals and animal products. Viet Nam, in turn, exports rice, coffee, pasta, coconut, seafood and fish products to Poland, he said.

Harasimowicz added: "The Polish government is interested in taking steps to increase trade in agricultural and food products and to strengthen the relationship between Polish and Vietnamese businesses."

Polish apples, allowed into Viet Nam since 2015, have become increasingly popular, with rising sales reflecting local consumers trust in their quality and flavour.

According to the General Statistics Office, Poland exported around 7,000 tonnes of pork to Viet Nam in the first six months of 2025, making it the countrys third-largest pork supplier. It also shipped about 20 tonnes of poultry, ranking fourth among poultry exporters.

ukasz Wielgat of the Association of Butchers and Meat Producers of Poland said Viet Nam is a strategic market in Asia for Polish meat exporters. Their growing presence reflects consumer confidence and the suitability of Polish products for Vietnamese tastes and safety expectations.

He highlighted that Polish producers comply with some of the worlds strictest regulations on food safety, veterinary standards and animal welfare, with products undergoing multiple layers of inspection. Continuous investment in modern processing and automation ensures consistent, year-round supply that meets demanding quality and volume requirements.

Wielgat added that tariff cuts under the EUViet Nam Free Trade Agreement will further reduce import duties, enhancing the competitiveness of Polish meat in the Vietnamese market. The increasing number of Polish companies licensed to export to the market demonstrates the industrys commitment to serving Viet Nams long-term demand for safe, high-quality food.

At the business meeting, Polish companies met with Vietnamese importers and food industry representatives to explore cooperation opportunities.

The press conference and business meeting marked the second year of the Taste Europe  Discover the Flavours of Europe! campaign, which is being rolled out across Viet Nam, Japan and Singapore.

The campaign aims to raise awareness among consumers and industry partners about the quality, safety, and authenticity of EU food products. It highlights the EUs food control and certification system, covering every stage from farming to distribution, and its Farm to Fork approach, which emphasises transparency, sustainability, and care for consumer health.  VNS
HA NOI  Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien held talks with US Congressman Adrian Smith in Washington D.C. on November 13, seeking to advance Viet NamUS trade negotiations and expand imports of American agricultural products.

Smith, a Republican representing Nebraska, serves as Chair of the US House Subcommittee on Trade and is a key voice for the US agricultural sector. The meeting focused on the potential, prospects and recent progress in Viet NamUS economic cooperation, including with the state of Nebraska.

Dien said that since Viet Nam and the US launched reciprocal trade negotiations earlier this year, Vietnam has committed to importing a range of American products.

Vietnamese businesses, he noted, are particularly interested in high-quality corn from US states  an essential input for seed production and ethanol processing used in biofuel, a key element of Viet Nam's sustainable energy strategy. Beef from Nebraska has also gained strong popularity among Vietnamese consumers.

He expressed his hope that Viet Nam and Nebraska could establish practical cooperation mechanisms in areas of shared interest, thereby helping deepen bilateral economic and trade ties.

Since the start of the year, Viet Nam's imports from the US have risen sharply: cotton by 126 per cent, seafood by 8 per cent, and corn and soybeans by 35 per cent. Viet Nam has also signed multiple aircraft purchase contracts with US manufacturers. Acknowledging the existing trade imbalance between the two countries, Dien said that removing Viet Nam from the USs D1/D3 list  the group of countries restricted in accessing certain high-tech products  would provide an important basis for achieving more balanced trade.

Dien called on Smith, given his strong political influence and deep understanding of trade and agriculture, to support Viet Nam during the negotiation process. He encouraged the Congressman to act as a bridge fostering cooperation between Viet Nam and the US, especially in areas of Nebraskas strengths such as agriculture, aviation and biotechnology.

Smith welcomed Dien's visit and message, expressing confidence that recent positive developments create favourable conditions to boost bilateral trade cooperation. He praised Viet Nam's efforts to promote trade balance, particularly its increased corn purchases for biofuel production. Having previously visited Vietnamese agricultural and seafood facilities, he affirmed the strong potential for expanding imports of US raw materials.

He expressed his hope that both sides would soon conclude reciprocal trade negotiations and that the agreement would generate meaningful benefits for bilateral economic and trade cooperation.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  Representative Vietnamese cinematic works will be introduced to the French public during the Viet Nam Film Week, taking place from December 5 to 12 at Le Grand Rex, the world's largest cinema and one of Paris's iconic cultural landmarks.

The film week is co-organised by the Viet Nam Film Development Association (VFDA) and AVSE Global, under the patronage of the Embassy of Viet Nam in France.

The event celebrates the 80th anniversary of Viet Nam's National Day and the 120th anniversary of world commercial cinema, counted from the first ticketed film screenings presented by the Lumiere brothers in Paris.

inh Toan Thang, Ambassador of Viet Nam to France, said: "Viet Nam cinema has long evolved alongside French cinema. Viet Nam Film Week in Paris is an opportunity to engage in deeper discussions about the development of Vietnamese cinema and expand new connections with the French film community."

"This will pave the way for stronger cooperation projects in the future, contributing to new milestones in Viet Nam-France cultural relations and to a better shared future."

The theme Vietnamese Cinema  A Journey of Light and 17 films screened in the film week was personally selected by Ngo Phuong Lan, Chairwoman of VFDA.

She explained: "The idea behind the title stems from the fact that cinema vividly mirrors the nations progress, tracing the journey of Vietnamese film from wartime to peace, from the Reform Era to the contemporary period."

She highlighted that the word 'Lumiere', meaning 'Light' in French, holds deep symbolic meaning: it not only evokes the image of Paris, city of light but also recalls the Lumiere brothers.

These pioneers laid the foundations of world cinema with their invention of cinema in 1895.

"I believe that this film screening programme will be worthy of the name we have chosen, she remarked.

Seventeen notable Vietnamese films have been selected, including works recognised at major international film festivals, winners of Viet Nams top national awards and new films that have become cultural and social phenomena in the country.

Classic Vietnamese films from the oi Moi period selected for screening include Canh ong Hoang (The Abandoned Field: Free Fire Zone) by Peoples Artist Nguyen Hong Sen, Bao Gio Cho en Thang Muoi (When the Tenth Month Comes) by Peoples Artist ang Nhat Minh and Tuong Ve Huu (The Retired General) by Peoples Artist Nguyen Khac Loi.

Films by young independent filmmakers, expressing their individual and distinctive voices with a contemporary touch, include Bi, ung So (Bi, Dont Be Afraid), Cu Li Khong Bao Gio Khoc (Cu Li Never Cries) and Mua Tren Canh Buom (Dont Cry, Butterfly).

The lineup, spanning feature films, documentaries and short films, from mainstream to arthouse cinema, offers audiences a journey into Viet Nams culture, history and people through the diverse languages of film.

Nguyen uc Khuong, President of AVSE Global, said: "Through Viet Nam Film Week in Paris, we hope to introduce to international audiences a dynamic, humanistic and authentic portrait of Viet Nam  where past and present intersect, moving toward a prosperous and sustainable future."

It marks the opening activity of the cultural programme titled 'Viet Nam  The Symphony of Love,' initiated by AVSE Global to promote Vietnamese culture to the world through distinctive artistic approaches.

He added: "Cinema, with its power to transcend borders, is a gateway for the world to understand more about Viet Nam. This is just the starting point  we aim to bring Vietnamese cinema to many more countries and expand global networks of cultural and artistic cooperation."

In addition to film screenings, the programme features a panoramic photography exhibition on Viet Nam cinema, meetings with Vietnamese film crews, meetings between young French and Vietnamese filmmakers and a Viet Nam-France film cooperation seminar.

Lan said: "Even though this is only a film week, we have made every effort to shape it like a small film festival. Our goal is not only to showcase the journey of Vietnamese cinema but also to help audiences recognise the promising and trustworthy signs of its growth."

"If French filmmakers are now seeking pathways for film co-production with Viet Nam cinema industry, I firmly believe this is the golden moment," she added.

The opening ceremony will be held at Le Grand Rex, Paris, on December 5, featuring the world premiere of Tu Chien Tren Khong (Hijacked) with live performance of film soundtracks.

Tickets can be bought via this link.  VNS
HA NOI  The Pho Week will take place across Europe from 8 to 14 December as part of an effort to promote one of Viet Nams most iconic dishes to international audiences.

The event was announced in Ha Noi on 14 November by the State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese Affairs under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the We Love Pho Association.

"The event is an event to response to "Pho Day" which is held annually on December 12 in Viet Nam. It is also our desire to promote important culinary culture, contribute to elevating Vietnamese cuisine and spreading traditional Vietnamese pho around the world," said Mai Hai Lam, chairman of We Love Pho Association.

Lam said due to busy timetable of oversea Vietnamese restaurant owners, there would have no specific venue for the event but it would be organised in every eateries that served pho.

"Overseas Vietnamese people and international friends can enjoy our noodles in restaurants where they have opportunities to enjoy a variety of pho dishes such as traditional pho with beef, pho with chicken, pho rolls, vegetarian pho and mixed pho along with many modern variations to suit all customers' tastes," said Lam, a Vietnamese businessman in Poland.

All restaurants are encouraged take part in the event and choose types of promotion and advertising their pho.

"Every action to popularise the event is welcome. They can only hang banners to introduce the week or offer discounts from 10 to 50 per cent depending on their scale and ability," said Lam.

"In their places, they can set up spaces displaying images and documents about the history, development and recipe of the dish; simulate a rustic pho stall; perform live pho cooking; and hold interactions with chefs and culinary experts.

"Pho has been voted one of the delicious and most well-known dishes in the world many time. It was in the best 30 dishes of the world in 2018, the most delicious 10 soups in the world in 2021, and the 100 most popular dishes worldwide in 2022," said Lam.

"Our event is an acitivity to popularise Vietnamese cuisine to world, contributing to strengthening connection among overseas Vietnamese communities abroad and introducing one of the country's iconic dishes to international friends.

Attending to announcing event, SCOVA Chairman Nguyen Trung Kien said culture always served as a strong bridge, connecting Vietnamese communities around the world and fostering mutual understanding and people-to-people exchange.

"Culinary culture in general, and pho in particular, is a source of national pride, helping shape Viet Nams identity in the eyes of the international friends. I strongly support the initiative to organise the week and hope that the event will be successful, creating wide-reaching impact across Europe and across the world."

As of November 14, the programme has recorded 12 restaurants registered to participate: one each in Romania and Czech Republic, three each in the UK and Slovakia, and four in Belgium. That number is expected to increase as the week approaches.

The We Love Pho network was established in Brussels in June 2025, gathering OVs from across Europe, including Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and the UK.

Its mission is to promote and preserve Viet Nams culinary culture, with pho as its central symbol. It works to connect the overseas Vietnamese community with local residents through cuisine.

At the meeting, We Love Pho and Ninh Binh Province's Culinary Culture Association signed a cooperation agreement to spread the value of Vietnamese cuisine, especially pho, to the Vietnamese community and international friends in Europe.

Culinary artisan Le Thi Thiet, chairwoman of the Ninh Binh Association, attended the event. She is one of many artisans who has been persistently preserving and introducing the flavours of her homeland for many years, including renowned pho Van Cu, one of the ancient pho origins of Viet Nam.

Thiet said that cooking pho is not just about making a delicious bowl of food, but also about preserving tradition  carrying the familiar scent of home so that Vietnamese people everywhere can find a part of themselves in it. VNS
HA NOI  Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Hang has highlighted the significance of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinhs upcoming official visits to Kuwait and Algeria, attendance at the G20 Summit, and bilateral activities in South Africa, stressing that the trip will help shape a new phase of cooperation between Viet Nam and the Middle East-Africa region.

Speaking to the press ahead of the trip, scheduled for November 16-24, Hang said the PMs working trip follows the vibrant high-level foreign affairs activities of the Party and State leaders in recent times, carrying great significance both bilaterally and multilaterally. The mission, she noted, reflects Viet Nams consistent foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, and diversification and multilateralisation of external ties.

South Africa is Africas largest economy, Chair of the G20 in 2025 and a key member of BRICS. Algeria, a long-standing friend of Viet Nam, is serving as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2024-2025. Kuwait acts as chair of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) this year.

Bilaterally, Viet Nam boasts good friendship and cooperation with Kuwait, Algeria and South Africa. The relationship between Viet Nam and the three countries is developing more and more effectively and substantially. They are in a new "position" on their development path. Middle Eastern and African countries consider Viet Nam a model of success in innovation and development, a model of increasingly positive and responsible contributions to the international community. This is an important basis for increasing political trust and the sharing of common values between Viet Nam and countries in the Middle Eastern and African region.

PM Chinhs trip carries an important message that Viet Nam places great importance on advancing ties with Middle Eastern and African partners. The visits are expected to open a new phase of cooperation - more strategic, intensive and practical.

The working trip is also an opportunity for Viet Nam to strengthen its engagement with the regions three strategic destinations, thereby not only elevating and deepening its relations with these three countries but also helping shape a future-oriented vision between Viet Nam and the Middle East-Africa region, grounded in trust, sustainability, and a shared pursuit of common prosperity.

On the multilateral front, this is the second consecutive year Viet Nam has been invited to the G20 Summit  a strong affirmation of the countrys growing reputation and role, and recognition of its development achievements and constructive contributions to global issues.

The participation offers Viet Nam an opportunity to reaffirm its consistent foreign policy of being a reliable partner of the international community, always ready to work together in addressing global issues in a spirit of mutual respect and understanding, and contributing to the common development of humanity, Hang noted.

Drawing on Viet Nams experience as a fast-growing, reform-driven developing economy with deepening global integration, PM Chinh will share assessments and proposals aimed at building a fair, inclusive and sustainable international economic order and global economic governance system. On the sidelines of the summit, he will meet leaders of various countries and international organisations to strengthen cooperation in strategic areas such as green transition, digital transformation, innovation, strategic infrastructure and human resource development, thereby mobilising international resources for Viet Nams development goals.

On bilateral cooperation, Hang stressed that Viet Nams relations with South Africa, Algeria and Kuwait are grounded in solid political trust and long-standing friendship. South Africa is Viet Nams first Partnership for Cooperation and Development in Africa; Kuwait was the first GCC country to establish diplomatic ties with Viet Nam; and Algeria has been a loyal friend throughout 65 years of diplomatic relations.

Economic, trade and investment ties are expanding, with all the three countries considered major and promising partners for Viet Nam in the Middle East-Africa region. South Africa is Viet Nams largest African trading partner; Kuwait is a leading ODA and energy partner in the Middle East; and Algeria hosts one of Viet Nams most successful overseas energy projects  the Bir Seba oil and gas venture operated by PVEP. Cooperation in defence, security, agriculture, and biodiversity conservation has also made encouraging progress.

Hang expressed her confidence that the PM's trip will elevate these relationships, delivering concrete outcomes in trade, investment, industry, mining, logistics, green supply chains and innovation with South Africa; expanding energy, investment, trade, processing industries, smart agriculture and education cooperation with Algeria; and deepening collaboration in finance, trade, investment, energy, green infrastructure, food security, ODA and the Halal industry with Kuwait.

Viet Nam also seeks to establish priority corridors for capital flow, technology, goods and skilled labour, while strengthening people-to-people exchanges and cultural, educational and labour cooperation, the Deputy Minister stated.

Regarding Viet Nams contributions to the G20 Summit, Hang said PM Chinh will deliver Viet Nams key policy messages, focusing on promoting global economic recovery, mitigating risks and enhancing cooperation in strategic sectors such as critical minerals, energy, and reform of global trade, finance and investment systems.

Through these messages and initiatives, Viet Nam aims to demonstrate its determination to innovate and rise in the new development era, reinforcing its role as a trusted, proactive and responsible partner committed to peace, stability, cooperation and sustainable development for all.  VNA/VNS
Quoc Huy

Viet Nam has entered a crucial phase of preparation for the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Viet Nam  a defining political event, slated for late January next year, that will set the countrys direction for the years ahead.

Amid discussions over the Congresss draft policy documents, one phrase has stood out: strategic autonomy. Party officials say it marks a new stage in Viet Nams thinking about independence and self-reliance  not just the ability to remain independent, but the capacity to steer its own course in a fast-changing world.

For decades, independence and self-reliance have been a constant principle in Viet Nams political philosophy, and a guardrail for national policy. But for the first time, the new draft documents introduce the idea of strategic autonomy, expanding that principle to reflect the realities of globalisation and geopolitical competition.

In simple terms, if independence means avoiding dependence on any external power, strategic autonomy means having the strength and foresight to set ones own direction amid global uncertainty.

That idea has become urgent. As great-power rivalries intensify, supply chains shift and new risks emerge  from energy shortages to cyber threats  nations without strategic autonomy risk being pulled into the orbit of stronger players.

Since taking office, Party General Secretary To Lam has repeatedly emphasised the need to build what he calls "comprehensive strategic autonomy".

Speaking at a Party Central Committee meeting in October, he urged members to weave that concept into the 14th Congress documents, alongside reforms to boost innovation and economic efficiency.

Days later, addressing the first Congress of the Party Organisation of the Government for the 20252030 term, he called for Viet Nam to get ahead of the curve by combining the intelligence of its people with global knowledge, and to achieve a state of strategic autonomy for the good of the nation and its citizens.

In his view, autonomy is not limited to politics or national defence. It depends on deeper internal strength: a resilient economy, a capable scientific base, and a unified national spirit.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has echoed that message on the global stage. At the ASEAN Future Forum in February, he described strategic autonomy as "the ability to shape ones own path while staying open to the world".

Balancing in a volatile world

The call for autonomy comes at a time of shifting power balances. Trade wars, technology bans and competition in artificial intelligence and clean energy are redefining global relationships.

For Viet Nam, positioned at the crossroads of the AsiaPacific, the challenge is complex. It maintains a comprehensive strategic partnership with the US while preserving its long-standing ties with China, its largest trading partner.

At the same time, it is deepening cooperation with the EU, Japan, India, South Korea, and others.

In that environment, strategic autonomy is not a choice but a necessity. Viet Nams foreign policy, Party officials say, remains rooted in independence, peace, friendship, and cooperation  to be, in their words, "a friend, a reliable partner, and a responsible member" of the international community.

During a lecture at Oxford University, the UK, in October, General Secretary Lam reaffirmed that Viet Nam would never take sides in great-power rivalries. The countrys approach is to maintain balance  securing political, social and economic stability at home while promoting peace and cooperation abroad, and resolving differences through dialogue and international law.

"The legitimate interests of the people must come first," he said.

That, observers note, is Viet Nams definition of strategic autonomy in action: independent in thought, flexible in practice, and steady in principle.

Proof in practice

Recent years have tested that approach. When the US-China trade war disrupted global supply chains, Viet Nam sustained its position as a key manufacturing hub, thanks to its stable and balanced foreign policy.

When regional tensions flared, it stood firm on its principles of peace and international law, while strengthening defence cooperation with multiple partners  yet without joining any formal alliances.

As of October, Viet Nam has diplomatic ties with 195 countries, strategic partnerships with 10 and comprehensive partnerships with 17  including all five permanent members of the UN Security Council and the G7.

Its list of comprehensive strategic partners now includes China, Russia, the US, Japan, India, the Republic of Korea, the UK, Australia, France, New Zealand, and several ASEAN neighbours.

At a foreign affairs conference last year, General Secretary Lam summed up Viet Nams guiding principle: diplomacy must safeguard independence in strategic thinking while putting national interests first and contributing to global peace and cooperation.

That is the essence of strategic autonomy: independent but not isolated, integrated but not dependent.

Building the foundations

Analysts say achieving that goal will depend on three main pillars: economic strength, effective governance, and technological capability.

Duong Trung Y, deputy director of the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, notes that the draft documents highlight self-reliance, self-determination, self-confidence, self-strength, and self-pride as the foundation for Viet Nams future.

Economic autonomy, he says, remains the root of all others. As supply chains realign, Viet Nams task is to build an economy that is both independent and deeply integrated  combining domestic innovation and green transformation with stable participation in global markets.

Institutional autonomy requires transparent, adaptable governance that remains true to socialist principles while embracing reform and modernisation. And in the digital era, technological mastery will define whether Viet Nam can chart its own course.

The challenges are significant. The global landscape is uncertain, and Viet Nams economy is still dominated by small and medium-sized enterprises. But policymakers say that with sound strategy, stronger institutions and investment in knowledge and technology, the country can maintain its independence while growing more deeply connected to the world.

Strategic autonomy, as the Partys draft documents describe it, is more than a foreign policy stance. It is a vision for development  to remain open to the world yet firmly in control of ones own destiny.

For Viet Nam, that will be the clearest statement yet of where it intends to stand in an increasingly uncertain world. VNS
HA NOI  President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic Milos Vystrcil will pay an official visit to Viet Nam from next Tuesday to Saturday.

His visit is made at the invitation of Vietnamese National Assembly Tran Thanh Man, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam and the United Nations (UN) reaffirmed their shared vision of putting people at the heart of all development strategies during a working session between Permanent Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Vu and UN Resident Coordinator for Viet Nam Pauline Tamesis and heads of UN development agencies in Ha Noi on Friday.

The meeting, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focused on major policy directions in Viet Nams forthcoming development agenda as reflected in the draft documents to be submitted to the 14th National Party Congress, which are currently being circulated for public feedback.

At the meeting, Vu briefed the UN side on Viet Nams outstanding socio-economic achievements in recent years as well as its long-term strategic development goals. He underlined that these results stem from the strong determination of the Party and the State, supported by far-reaching and strategic reforms, especially the ongoing restructuring of the apparatus and the formulation of strategic breakthrough resolutions.

Highlighting the political significance of the 14th National Party Congress, which will review 40 years of oi Moi (Renewal) process and chart the countrys future development vision, Vu said the draft documents have been thoroughly prepared with many new points. These are grounded in an objective assessment of domestic and global contexts, and embody Viet Nams aspiration for rapid, sustainable and comprehensive development.

Key orientations outlined in the draft documents include restructuring the growth model, accelerating industrialisation and modernisation, advancing comprehensive digital transformation, enhancing the performance of the state-owned sector, strengthening the role of the private sector as a key growth driver, promoting breakthroughs in science and technology, further streamlining the state apparatus, and upholding the principle that people are the centre, subject and ultimate goal of all development policies.

Expressing appreciation for the UNs long-standing support for Viet Nams development, Vu encouraged UN development agencies and international experts to continue contributing their expertise and recommendations to help refine these strategic orientations.

For her part, Pauline Tamesis congratulated Viet Nam on its major socio-economic accomplishments and expressed admiration for the countrys comprehensive development aspiration and long-term strategic vision as reflected in the draft Party Congress documents. She commended Viet Nams strong progress in implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and voiced confidence that the country will continue to achieve breakthrough advances in its new era of development, while affirming its increasingly important role in regional and global cooperation mechanisms.

UN development agencies also lauded Viet Nams active contributions to addressing global challenges, most recently demonstrated by its successful hosting of the signing ceremony for the UN Convention against Cybercrime. They expressed hope that the draft documents will further affirm Viet Nams commitment to multilateralism and to the role of the UN and international organisations.

Representatives of UN agencies in Viet Nam offered a range of assessments and policy recommendations to support the country in maximising development opportunities. These included proposals on development financing, advancing gender equality, protecting vulnerable groups in the digital transformation process, responding to climate change, and strengthening cultural, educational and healthcare initiatives to improve human resources and ensure social security in alignment with sustainable development goals.

They expressed strong confidence in Viet Nams long-term growth prospects, affirming that the strategic directions and policy priorities set out in the draft 14th Party Congress documents will form a solid foundation for deeper integration and rapid, sustainable development.

They reiterated their readiness to continue supporting ministries and localities in implementing the Partys major development orientations through cooperation frameworks and joint projects.

Vu welcomed the objective and substantive assessments as well as cooperation initiatives offered by the UN agencies, saying that continued cooperation, support and constructive recommendations from the UN and international partners will remain vital to Viet Nams efforts to realise its development goals in the years ahead.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  A nationwide conference to thoroughly study and disseminate the Politburos directive on preparations for the elections of deputies to the 16th National Assembly (NA) and all-level Peoples Councils for the 2026-2031 term concluded in Ha Noi on Saturday after completing its full agenda.

The one-day event linked a main venue in the capital with 34 provincial sites and 3,321 commune-level locations, drawing a total of 12,000 delegates.

Leaders from the Government, the National Election Council (NEC), the Party Central Committees Organisation Commission, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Standing Board of the Viet Nam Fatherland Front Central Committee introduced important documents related to the upcoming elections.

Party General Secretary To Lam gave a keynote speech spelling out the elections purpose, requirements, significance, and major policy orientations for ministries, agencies, and localities to thoroughly grasp and effectively pursue in the coming time.

NA Chairman and NEC President Tran Thanh Man, in his speech, said the just-concluded 14th plenum of the 13th Party Central Committee had been a success, while the ongoing 10th session of the 15th legislature marks the final sitting of the current term. The entire Party, people and army are striving to meet 2025 goals and tasks, the 2021-2025 five-year targets, prepare for the 14th National Party Congress, while also heading toward the 80th anniversary of Viet Nams first general election.

The outcomes of the upcoming elections will be critical to upholding democracy, reinforcing great national unity, fostering public trust, and ensuring the success of comprehensive national renewal, and the process of building and safeguarding the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam as well.

Immediately after the conference, the NA Standing Committee, the NEC, the Government, the VFF Central Committee and local authorities will intensify coordination to steer and follow the election roadmap on schedule, he said.

Key immediate tasks include finalising the structure and allocation of NA and Peoples Council seats, holding consultative conferences to nominate candidates, announcing candidate lists, forming local election bodies, intensifying communication and public information, and ensuring security, order, inspection, and oversight of election law compliance, all aimed at delivering elections that are democratic, lawful, safe, cost-effective and select deputies of integrity and capability who truly represent the peoples will, aspirations and right to mastery.

It is time for leaders of Party committees, authorities, government agencies, VFF, and mass organisations to demonstrate strong leadership, organisational effectiveness and the ability to turn resolutions into tangible results under tight deadlines, he added.  VNA/VNS
SAN DIEGO, Nov. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP announces that purchasers or acquirers of Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (NYSE: FCX) publicly traded securities between February 15, 2022 and September 24, 2025, inclusive (the "Class Period"), have until January 12, 2026 to seek appointment as lead plaintiff of the Freeport-McMoRan class action lawsuit. Captioned Reed v. Freeport-McMoRan Inc., No. 25-cv-04243 (D. Ariz.), the Freeport-McMoRan class action lawsuit charges Freeport-McMoRan and certain of Freeport-McMoRan's top current and former executives with violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

If you suffered substantial losses and wish to serve as lead plaintiff of the Freeport-McMoRan class action lawsuit, please provide your information here:

https://www.rgrdlaw.com/cases-freeport-mcmoran-inc-class-action-lawsuit-fcx.html

You can also contact attorneys J.C. Sanchez or Jennifer N. Caringal of Robbins Geller by calling 800/449-4900 or via e-mail at [email protected].

CASE ALLEGATIONS: Freeport-McMoRan engages in the mining of mineral properties in North America, South America, and Indonesia. Freeport-McMoRan operates the Grasberg Copper and Gold Mine in Papua, Indonesia, in which the Indonesian government holds a commercial interest, according to the complaint.

The Freeport-McMoRan class action lawsuit alleges that throughout the Class Period defendants made false and/or misleading statement and/or failed to disclose that: (i) Freeport-McMoRan did not adequately ensure safety at the Grasberg Block Cave mine in Indonesia; (ii) the lack of proper safety precautions constituted a heightened risk that could foreseeably lead to the death of Freeport-McMoRan's workers; and (iii) this constituted an undisclosed heightened risk of regulatory, litigation, and reputational risk.

The Freeport-McMoRan class action lawsuit further alleges that on September 9, 2025, Freeport-McMoRan disclosed that "a large flow of wet material from a production drawpoint occurred at one of five production blocks in the Grasberg Block Cave underground mine," which "blocked access to certain areas within the mine, restricting evacuation routes for seven team members." Freeport-McMoRan further allegedly disclosed that "[m]ining operations in the Grasberg minerals district have been temporarily suspended to prioritize the safe evacuation of the seven contractor workers." On this news, the price of Freeport-McMoRan stock fell nearly 6%, according to the complaint.

Then, on September 24, 2025, the complaint further alleges that Freeport-McMoRan revealed that "two team members . . . were regrettably fatally injured in the September 8th incident," "[e]xtensive efforts are ongoing in the search for five [PT Freeport Indonesia ("PTFI")] team members who remain missing," and "mining operations in the Grasberg minerals district have been temporarily suspended since September 8th." Freeport-McMoRan allegedly further disclosed that "PTFI production in 2026 could potentially be approximately 35% lower than pre-incident estimates." On this news, the price of Freeport-McMoRan stock fell nearly 17%, according to the complaint.

Finally, on September 25, 2025, the Freeport-McMoRan class action lawsuit alleges that Bloomberg published an article entitled "Freeport Mine Setback Risks Fraying Relations With Indonesia," which stated, in pertinent part, that "[a] halt in production at the giant Grasberg copper mine in Indonesia looks set to strain the fractious relationship between Freeport-McMoRan Inc. and its host nation, at a time when the Jakarta government was already looking to take greater control." The complaint alleges that on this news, the price of Freeport-McMoRan stock fell more than 6%.

THE LEAD PLAINTIFF PROCESS: The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 permits any investor who purchased or acquired Freeport-McMoRan publicly traded securities during the Class Period to seek appointment as lead plaintiff in the Freeport-McMoRan class action lawsuit. A lead plaintiff is generally the movant with the greatest financial interest in the relief sought by the putative class who is also typical and adequate of the putative class. A lead plaintiff acts on behalf of all other class members in directing the Freeport-McMoRan investor class action lawsuit. The lead plaintiff can select a law firm of its choice to litigate the Freeport-McMoRan shareholder class action lawsuit. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff of the Freeport-McMoRan class action lawsuit.

ABOUT ROBBINS GELLER: Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP is one of the world's leading law firms representing investors in securities fraud and shareholder litigation. Our Firm has been ranked #1 in the ISS Securities Class Action Services rankings for four out of the last five years for securing the most monetary relief for investors. In 2024, we recovered over $2.5 billion for investors in securities-related class action cases  more than the next five law firms combined, according to ISS. With 200 lawyers in 10 offices, Robbins Geller is one of the largest plaintiffs' firms in the world, and the Firm's attorneys have obtained many of the largest securities class action recoveries in history, including the largest ever  $7.2 billion  in In re Enron Corp. Sec. Litig. Please visit the following page for more information:

https://www.rgrdlaw.com/services-litigation-securities-fraud.html

Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices.

Contact:

Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP

J.C. Sanchez, Jennifer N. Caringal

655 W. Broadway, Suite 1900, San Diego, CA 92101

800-449-4900

[email protected]

SOURCE Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP
HA NOI  Party General Secretary To Lam on Saturday applauded the practical contributions of the Governor and administration of Japans Kanagawa Prefecture to promoting the locality's ties with Viet Nam, particularly in economy, trade, culture, education and labour.

Receiving Kuroiwa Yuji, Governor of Kanagawa Prefecture in Ha Noi, General Secretary Lam expressed his pleasure at the strong and comprehensive development of the Viet NamJapan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, noting that economic cooperation remains the key pillar while science and technology has emerged as a new pillar.

Collaboration in culture, human resources, and people-to-people exchange has also grown increasingly substantive and effective, he said.

He highlighted that Kanagawa is the first Japanese locality to organise annual festivals and investment and labour promotion events in both Japan and Viet Nam. These activities continue to serve as an important bridge connecting the two peoples, enhancing mutual understanding and friendship, and promoting cultural exchange, tourism cooperation, and economic ties. He emphasised that cultural cooperation is an important factor laying a firm foundation for the friendship and cooperation between Viet Nam and Japan.

At the reception, Kuroiwa briefed the Vietnamese Party leader on the 6th Kanagawa Festival underway in Ha Noi, along with a series of trade and investment promotion events held in a Nang and HCM City.

He noted that since the first Viet Nam Festival was organised in Kanagawa in 2015, Vietnamese businesses have begun investing in the prefecture. Now 22 Vietnamese enterprises are operating there, while 32 Kanagawa firms have invested in Viet Nam.

He affirmed Kanagawas commitment to further strengthening cooperation with Viet Nam in labour, cultural and people-to-people exchange, and in encouraging more Kanagawa enterprises to invest in Viet Nam.

The Governor also expressed readiness to share Kanagawas experience in health care and ageing society response through the MEBYO initiative on promoting healthy longevity. The initiative has been included in a cooperation agreement with Viet Nams Ministry of Health.

Welcoming the Governors proposals, General Secretary Lam said he believes Kanagawa will continue to build on its strengths to enhance investment ties, cultural exchanges, and human resource training cooperation with Vietnamese localities.

He called on Kanagawa to maintain regular Viet NamJapan cultural festivals.

Appreciating the prefectures support for the 40,000-strong Vietnamese community in the prefecture, he urged continued assistance for the community and Vietnamese businesses operating there, as well as expanded exchange of experience in dealing with population ageing and health care.

On this occasion, Governor Kuroiwa also informed the Party chief about a planned musical titled Princess Anio, inspired by the 400-year-old love story between Vietnamese princess Ngoc Hoa and Japanese merchant Araki Shotaro in Nagasaki. The production is scheduled for debut in Kanagawa in September next year.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  National Assembly (NA) Chairman Tran Thanh Man accepted a bronze-and-iron light sculpture titled Suc manh cua long dan (Power of the Peoples Will) donated to the future Viet Nam NA Museum by artisan Bui Van Tu during a ceremony in Ha Noi on Saturday.

The handover, taking place ahead of the NAs upcoming 80th anniversary on January 6, coincided with the ongoing 10th session of the 15th NA, and formed part of preparations for the museums official opening.

It stands 1,946mm tall, a tribute to the year of Viet Nams first general election, and 80cm wide to mark the NAs 80th year.

At its core, 18 Lac birds rise above a cloud pattern, symbolising the legendary 18 Hung Kings and the Vietnamese peoples aspiration for rising high and far during their history. The national emblem of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam sits at the centre, embodying great national unity, independence, freedom and sovereignty.

When lit from 2,025mm away, the sculpture projects a shadow depicting President Ho Chi Minh casting the first ballot in the landmark 1946 election. As the light moves, the shadow of the emblem merges with the physical form, delivering the message of Power of the Peoples Will.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh will begin an overseas tour on November 16-24 with a stop in Kuwait, the first visit by a Vietnamese Government leader in 16 years and timed ahead of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties (January 10) next year.

Nearly five decades of robust friendship

Kuwait was the first Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member to establish diplomatic ties with Viet Nam on January 10, 1976. Viet Nam opened its embassy in Kuwait City in 2003, Kuwait reciprocated with an embassy in Ha Noi and a Consulate General in HCM City in 2007.

The two countries have maintained high-level visits and exchanges, meetings of the Inter-Governmental Committee, and deputy foreign ministerial level political consultations.

Economic, trade, and investment has emerged as a bright spot of bilateral ties. Kuwait is now Viet Nams largest GCC trade partner and investor. Two-way trade hit US$7.3 billion last year and topped $5 billion in the first nine months this year. Viet Nam ships seafood, fruits, vegetables, cashew nuts, pepper, wood products and components to Kuwait, while importing mainly crude oil. Kuwait granted market-economy status to Viet Nam in 2016, and their 1995 bilateral trade agreement remains in force.

On the investment front, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, in partnership with Japan, is a co-owner of the $9 billion Nghi Son Refinery and Petrochemical LLC, which started commercial operations in 2018 and supplies 5-7 million tonnes of petroleum products annually to Viet Nam under a long-term crude supply deal.

The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development has extended roughly $190 million in concessional financing for 15 infrastructure projects across Vietnamese cities and provinces for many years.

Locality-to-locality links include a 2010 cooperation agreement between HCM City and Ahmadi Governorate and a 2018 pact between Thanh Hoa Province and Al Farwaniyah Governorate, facilitating people-to-people exchanges and trade.

In education and training, the Kuwaiti Government has offered scholarships to many Vietnamese students to study Arabic at Kuwait University annually since 2013.

The two countries work closely together and offer mutual support at multilateral forums. Both sides stand ready to act as bridges for cooperation between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the GCC in both political and economic spheres, opening a promising path toward deeper inter-regional connectivity in the future.

Continued consolidation of bilateral ties

PM Chinhs visit to Kuwait carries important significance, reaffirming Viet Nams determination to advance its foreign policy strategy toward the Middle East and realise the Politburo's Resolution 59 on global integration in the new situation.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Kuwait Nguyen uc Thang said through this visit, Viet Nam seeks to further consolidate its friendship with Kuwait, enhance political trust, expand market access, and unlock untapped cooperation areas.

The timing is opportune to elevate bilateral relations to a new level that supports mutual ambitions: Viet Nams goal of becoming a developing country with modern industry and ranking among the top 30 global economies by 2030 and a high-income developed country by 2045, and Kuwaits Vision 2035 that aims to transform itself into a leading financial and trade hub in the region and the world, he said.

The visit coincides with Kuwaits rotating presidency of GCC and a marked shift in Kuwaiti policy toward stronger ties with Asia, including ASEAN members. Viet Nam and Kuwait are well-positioned to act as bridges for enhanced ASEAN-GCC inter-regional cooperation, the ambassador added.

Viet Nam also hopes that Kuwait will uphold its role in advancing the launch of negotiations on a Viet NamGCC Free Trade Agreement this year, he said.

During the trip, the Vietnamese PM is due to meet with Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, hold talks with Kuwaiti PM Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, and receive several ministers and executives of major Kuwaiti conglomerates.

Both sides will review nearly 50 years of partnership and set wider frameworks for future collaboration. The PM is scheduled to address the Kuwait Diplomatic Institute, delivering strong messages about Viet Nams steady socio-economic progress and its long-term strategic vision for deeper, multi-faceted ties with the Middle East, with Kuwait as a priority partner.

The diplomat pointed to ample room to develop key potential sectors, firstly oil, gas, and energy. As the world undergoes a strong shift toward renewable energy, Viet Nam and Kuwait have many opportunities to cooperate in developing green and clean energy, in alignment with each countrys goals and international commitments. The two countries can jointly study and invest in solar power, wind power, and green hydrogen projects, leveraging Kuwaits financial strengths and Viet Nam's production and technical capabilities.

The two countries could also partner on major projects to build new regional financial centres. Viet Nams dynamic economy and attractive business climate positions it as an ideal Southeast Asian gateway for Kuwaiti investors, while Kuwait serves as a strategic partner that helps Viet Nam enter the Middle Eastern and adjacent markets.

Food security presents another promising avenue. Viet Nam can provide Kuwait with quality, stable Halal-certified supplies, helping Kuwait diversify sources while enabling Vietnamese producers to scale Halal value chains for broader GCC and Middle East penetration.

Looking forward, both sides can accelerate direct flights and joint tourism campaigns to boost people-to-people and business exchanges that will sustain momentum in government, corporate and civil-society ties in the coming years, he added.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  Representatives from domestic ministries and numerous United Nations organisations committed to enhance cooperation in protecting children in the digital environment during an event held on Saturday in Ha Noi.

The event Cyber Peace 2025, organised by the Wellspring Ha Noi International Bilingual School, followed the Hanoi Convention 2025 and the campaign "Not Alone - Together for online safety," emphasising the role of schools in enhancing digital competence, student voices, and participation in building a safe and humane cyberspace.

Students take initiative

Cyber Peace 2025 is part of activities accompanying national cybersecurity efforts and international organizations, starting when Wellspring was chosen to launch the "Not Alone - Together for online safety" campaign by the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) and the Digital Trust Alliance in early last month.

After Cyber Day 2025 supporting the Hanoi Convention, the Cyber Peace 2025 event expanded with participation from the MPS, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), Ministry of Education and Training (MoET), Ministry of Science and Technology, Ministry of Industry and Trade, Ministry of Finance, along with organisations like United Nations International Children's Fund (UNICEF) in Viet Nam, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Viet Nam, IOGT Viet Nam and representatives from over 45 schools.

A key feature of Cyber Peace 2025 is placing students' voices at the centre. Students are not only protected but empowered to participate in creating a safe online environment.

At the event, Wellspring High School and Ha Noi Foreign Language Specialised School students joined a Debate Showcase on "Optimal solutions to protect children online: early digital competency education or increasing state control?"

The debate helped students approach internet safety from multiple angles and build policy analysis skills.

Simultaneously, the WISMUN United Nations simulation gave students opportunities to role-play international delegates discussing closing the digital divide and enhancing child online safety in developing countries.

The model cultivated multicultural thinking, negotiation, and problem-solving skills suited for global citizenship.

Cyber Peace 2025 also held a Borderless Dialogue with representatives from the MPS, MoFA, MoET, and the Viet Nam Institute of Educational Sciences.

The forum allowed parents, students and organisations to ask questions, access official information and understand each agency's role in managing, supporting and protecting children in cyberspace.

Schools representatives affirmed that sustainable digital safety requires students to recognise risks, seek support actively and share with teachers and family.

Speaking at the event, Nguyen Vinh Son, Deputy Chairman of the Wellspring Education Council and Principal of Wellspring Ha Noi, stated that children grew up in parallel real and digital environments.

While cyberspace offers knowledge access opportunities, it also carries risks and traps, he said.

He highlighted the need for three layers of protection: technology, skills and connection among family, school and society.

The first layer is technical safeguards such as filtering, alerts, early monitoring and protection. The second is digital knowledge and skills helping students master technology, behave safely and responsibly. The third is a supportive connection environment where family and school create trust for students to share and seek help when facing online issues, he said.

Son emphasised parents' accompaniment as crucial because children were vulnerable to harmful online content. He recommended families created close environments encouraging positive exchanges rather than leaving children alone in cyberspace.

Children must be centre

Vu Kim Chi from the UNICEF in Viet Nam said digital transformation offered learning and information access for children but exposes them to unpredictable dangers such as data leaks, exposure to harmful content, cyberbullying, scams or online grooming.

A UNICEF survey in Viet Nam shows one in five children admits to online bullying, but most do not know where to seek support, indicating a lack of skills and support systems for children online.

UNICEF collaborates with the MoET to implement a digital competence framework for students since 2019, provides teacher training, safety materials and promotes youth empowerment initiatives.

Chi praised Wellspring's "Not Alone - Together for online safety" campaign as a positive model combining education, skills and arts to spread its message.

She also stressed children as the most vulnerable but often seen as central to all solutions.

Children must be given opportunities to participate in policy-making, initiatives, and related activities, not only as beneficiaries, she said.

Cyber Peace 2025 continued promoting the six-point digital safety principles by the MPS's Cybersecurity Department: safe access, healthy communication, responsible sharing, maintaining family-school connection, digital skills and proactive prevention.

The event affirmed digital safety is a societal responsibility, with technology playing a tool role, while family, school and community involvement is decisive.

Cyber Peace 2025 sends the message that protecting children online is an ongoing process requiring multi-sector collaboration.

Ha Noi, hosting many activities of the UN Convention on Cybercrime, is a beacon signaling joint efforts to build a confident, skilled and proactive generation of Vietnamese students for a safe digital environment.  VNS
HA NOI  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with outstanding education administrators, lecturers and teachers nationwide on Saturday on the occasion of the 43rd anniversary of Vietnamese Teachers Day (November 20, 1982  2025).

PM Chinh extended profound gratitude to all generations of teachers nationwide who have devoted themselves tirelessly to the noble mission of educating the nations young generations.

He recalled Viet Nams tradition of valuing education and honouring teachers. The PM affirmed that the Party and State always regard education and training as a top national policy, noting human resources are the decisive factor for national success and sustainable development.

He emphasised that to achieve Viet Nam's centennial development goals, the Politburo, National Assembly and Government have issued numerous strategic policies to develop high-quality human resources and advance education in the new era.

To meet the targets set in Resolution 71 on breakthroughs in education development - achieving regional-level educational standards by 2030 and global standards by 2045, PM Chinh urged ministers, sector leaders and local authorities to prioritise education, ensure effective implementation of assigned tasks, and create real breakthroughs in the quality of education at all levels.

He highlighted the guiding approach: students at the centre; teachers as motivators and sources of inspiration; schools as enablers; families as foundations; and society as a supportive environment. He called for continued institutional and policy reforms; timely issuance of guiding documents for amended laws on general, higher and vocational education; effective implementation of the Law on Teachers; and comprehensive review and improvement of the general education curriculum and textbooks.

The PM also stressed the need to improve the quality of higher education, promote deeper and more substantive training, attract greater investment in education, ensure fairness between public and private institutions, and expand public-private partnerships in the education sector.

At the event, Minister of Education and Training Nguyen Kim Son noted that the teachers present came from all levels of education and from every region of the country. Each teacher represents a moving story of dedication, resilience and innovation.

Whether devoting their lives to the classroom, leading digital transformation efforts, or quietly supporting disadvantaged students, these teachers embody professional ethics and integrity. They are key drivers of nationwide emulation movements promoting innovation in education, helping strengthen public trust and uphold the noble and humane image of Vietnamese teachers, he said.

Representatives of the teachers expressed their gratitude to Party and State leaders, notably the Prime Minister, for their consistent support for the education sector, as well as their readiness to listen to teachers concerns and recommendations.

This attention, they said, reflects the countrys deep respect for educators and provides strong motivation for the sector to fulfil its entrusted mission.

Delegates also called for more support in training qualified preschool teachers, particularly in remote and disadvantaged areas; improved policies for nutrition staff in kindergartens; stronger investment in science and technology for schools; special mechanisms for priority training fields; and a more equitable policy environment between public and private education.  VNA/VNS
From October 29-31, tlacSEA 2025 was held at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore with record scale, gathering more than 300 international enterprises and 10,000 trade visitors.

The event took place amid rapid logistics and freight growth across Southeast Asia, driven by expanding intra-regional trade, booming e-commerce, and large-scale infrastructure investments. According to Mordor Intelligence, the regional logistics market is projected to reach $390 billion by 2030, growing at 6.2 per cent annually.

As the regions most influential logistics, transport, IT, and supply chain management event, this year's tlacSEA brought together leading businesses, offering advanced digitalisation and sustainable development solutions.

As the number of exhibitors reaches a record high, focusing on digital transformation and sustainable development models, tlacSEA 2025 is driving the wave of innovation in the logistics industry across the Asia-Pacific region, said Michael Wilton, CEO and managing director of organisers MMI Asia.

At this arena shaping the future of the regional logistics industry, ITL participated for the second time, reaffirming its pioneering position of a leading Vietnamese logistics enterprise, not only through its professional exhibition booth but also with a strong presence in networking activities, dialogues, and in-depth discussions with industry experts.

Under the leadership of Ben Anh, group CEO of ITL Corporation, team members representing subsidiaries, including ITL Aviation, ITL Freight Management, and Sotrans Group, introduced its shared logistics ecosystem to international customers and partners, showcasing the companys extensive connectivity capabilities across regional and global supply chains.

Throughout the three-day event, ITLs booth attracted significant attention from international businesses, customers, and partners. This was a valuable opportunity for ITL to connect, exchange professional insights, and expand its network of strategic partnerships across the region.

At this year's event, ITL brought specialised analyses through the participation of two experts in the conferences strategic discussion sessions, illustrating its active role in promoting innovation and sustainable development for the industry.

Board member of ITL Frieght Management Alexander Olsen delivered a presentation on sustainable barging as part of Vietnams infrastructure planning. He analysed the essential role of sustainable waterway transport in national infrastructure planning, as well as solutions to improve efficiency and reduce emissions in the supply chain.

Tony Anh, deputy general director of ITL Corporation and CEO of ITL Aviation Logistics, joined an in-depth panel discussion on transforming transport logistics through technology and regional connectivity, sharing strategic insights on the strong transformation of Vietnams logistics industry. He emphasised the role of technology, regional connectivity, and the potential for Vietnam to become an Asian air logistics hub.

By continuously participating in major regional and global logistics forums, ITL demonstrates its commitment to contributing to the sustainable development of the regional logistics industry and marks a significant step forward in demonstrating ITLs position on the international logistics map, paving the way for strategic cooperation and opening up new directions for long-term growth.

Over 25 years of growth, ITL has continuously expanded its scale and enhanced its operational capabilities. With a network spanning Indochina and agency partnerships in more than 190 countries and territories, ITL provides a solid platform connecting Vietnamese businesses to the global supply chain.

Looking ahead, the group aims to maintain its pioneering spirit, focusing on providing effective logistics solutions and superior experiences.

ITL addresses digital and green transformation challenges in logistics industry As a co-sponsor of the Vietnam International Logistics Exhibition 2024 (VILOG 2024), ITL made a strong impression on the event with a series of digital and green transformation solutions.

ITL cements position at European logistics event By participating in the Transport Logistic & Air Cargo Europe Exhibition and Conference 2025, ITL Corporation has affirmed its international position as a trusted commercial bridge between Vietnam and the world.
VANCOUVER, BC, Nov. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Nevada King Gold Corp. (TSXV: NKG) (OTCQB: NKGFF) ("Nevada King" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has engaged Outside The Box Capital Inc. ("Outside The Box Capital"), a marketing services firm based in Toronto, Ontario, and founded by Jason Coles and Kelvin Coelho, for the provision of marketing and investor relations services (the "Services"). The Services include, but not limited to, planning social media content, assisting the Company with its various social media channels, increasing investor awareness in new communities and producing feature content of the Company on its and other entities' media channels.

The engagement of Outside The Box Capital is for a term of six months starting November 13, 2025. The anticipated total cost to the Company during the term of engagement is $150,000. Outside The Box Capital has no direct relationship with the Company other than as set out in this release. As of the date hereof, to the best of the Company's knowledge, Outside The Box Capital, including its respective directors and officers, does not hold, directly or indirectly, any securities of Nevada King, nor any right to acquire such securities; however, Outside The Box Capital may purchase shares of the Company during the term of the engagement. The engagement of Outside The Box Capital remains subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Nevada King VP Exploration, Justin Daley, P.Geo., a non-independent Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

About Nevada King Gold Corp.

Nevada King is focused on advancing and growing its 100% owned, past producing, 130km2 Atlanta Gold Mine project located along the Battle Mountain trend in southeast Nevada. The project hosts an NI 43-101 compliant pit-constrained oxide resource of 1,020koz Au in the measured and indicated category (27.7M tonnes at 1.14 g/t) plus an inferred resource of 99koz Au (3.6M tonnes at 0.84 g/t). See the NI 43-101 Technical Report titled "Technical Report and Estimate of Gold and Silver Mineral Resources for the Atlanta Project, Lincoln County, Nevada, USA" with an effective date of September 6, 2024, and a report date of July 18, 2025, as prepared by RESPEC (formerly Mine Development Associates) and filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ www.sedarplus.ca .

NI 43-101 Mineral Resources at the Atlanta Mine by RESPEC 2025



Tonnes Au g/t Au oz Ag g/t Ag oz AuEq g/t AuEq oz Measured 3,430,100 1.55 170,800 16.96 1,870,200 1.65 182,000 Indicated 24,280,200 1.09 848,800 8.73 6,817,200 1.14 887,700 M&I 27,710,300 1.14 1,019,600 9.75 8,687,400 1.20 1,069,700 Inferred 3,638,400 0.84 98,500 2.56 299,500 0.85 99,800

Please see the Company's website at www.nevadaking.ca .

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statements Regarding 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, without limitation, statements relating to the future operations and activities of Nevada King, 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. 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 Nevada King, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, technical, geologic, environmental, regulatory, 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 to complete proposed exploration work, the results of exploration, continued availability of capital, and changes in general economic, market and business conditions. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these items. Nevada King does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements should beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, change, except as required by applicable securities laws.

SOURCE Nevada King Gold Corp.
Calls to end national disgrace of veteran homelessness

Veteran homelessness has been labelled a national disgrace as the Senedd debated Conservative calls for ex-service personnel to be given priority for social housing.

James Evans warned it was unacceptable to have veterans sleeping on the streets, arguing that guaranteeing them a home should be a matter of principle, not paperwork.

The Tory Senedd member said: It is a national disgrace that men and women who wore the countrys uniform  who stood ready to risk everything for our freedoms and protections  are sleeping rough or are stuck in insecure accommodation.

He called on the Welsh Government to require councils and social landlords to give homeless veterans the highest priority for housing.

Leading a debate on Wednesday (November 12), Mr Evans set out a five-point plan to honour veterans, arguing remembrance must be about action rather than words.

How disrespectful

He told the Senedd: Remembrance must never just be about looking back, it must be about looking after those who have served and those who still serve today.

As well as priority housing, the motion called for free bus travel for all veterans, a national military museum, support for service children and permanent peer mentors in the NHS.

Mr Evans criticised amendments, accusing Plaid Cymru of seeking to replace the substance of the motion with vague platitudes or political point scoring.

He said: The most unacceptable part of Plaid Cymrus amendment is that it seeks to delete a section of our motion that recognises the significant ongoing contribution that the military makes to Wales. How disrespectful is that?

Plaid Cymrus Peredur Owen Griffiths warned one in five Welsh veterans could be eligible for an armed forces pension but are not claiming it  often due to confusion or complexity.

Bureaucratic maze

He told the Senedd: Veterans should receive what they are owed automatically and not be left to navigate a bureaucratic maze.

Mr Owen Griffiths said: Too many veterans still face poverty, homelessness and poor mental and physical health  a damning indictment of successive UK Governments.

The independent review of UK Government welfare services for veterans could not have been clearer: funding cuts have hollowed out support.

The Trussell Trust reports that over a quarter of veterans now struggle to afford food.

Lindsay Whittle, the newly returned Plaid Cymru Senedd member for Caerphilly, raised his constituents concerns about military personnels access to NHS dental services.

Mr Whittle called for a service pause policy for NHS dental registration, so veterans and their families do not lose access due to a change of address. He said: I would like to think that we are all united, despite the attacks earlier, in supporting the veterans of this country.

Person-centred

Ken Skates, who is responsible for armed forces policy in Wales insofar as it is devolved, described the Tory proposals as well-intentioned asks which presented challenges.

Responding to calls for priority housing, he pointed to the Welsh Governments homelessness bill which is making its way through the Senedd scrutiny process.

The transport secretary said: The bill seeks to create a person-centred homelessness system that responds to the support needs of all applicants experiencing or at risk of homelessness, including, crucially, members of the armed forces community.

Mr Skates confirmed a review of the national housing pathway for ex-service personnel was under way to ensure it is applied consistently across all 22 councils. He said offering free bus travel could lead to calls for emergency workers to receive the same entitlement.

Senedd members voted 35-13 against the motion. The Welsh Governments amended version  which removed the Tories five calls  was agreed 36-11, with one abstention.

By Joe Woods
Llangollen gears up for record turnout at Christmas Festival

Llangollen is gearing up for its biggest festive celebration yet with thousands of expected to pack the town for its spectacular Christmas Festival.

Now in its sixteenth year, the event on Saturday, 29 November, will see a colourful parade in the town  along with festive street stalls and live music.

It will culminate with a fireworks display  sponsored by the Wild Pheasant Hotel & Spa  which will light up the sky above Dinas Bran castle.

The VIP guest of honour will be Sion Corn aka Father Christmas.

According to festival chair Cllr Paul Keddie, the celebration is the result of community spirit and local support.

Cllr Keddie, said The event was the brainchild of the late town clerk, Ian Parry, and the Town Crier, Austin Cheminais and has grown to become the highlight of the winter season in Llangollen.

Were expecting record crowds of up to 4,000 to enjoy a festive day crowned by a fireworks show provided courtesy of The Wild Pheasant Hotel.

Its always very well supported by local businesses and traders and attracts people from across North Wales and Cheshire and as far afield as Yorkshire.

The event will kick off at the Llangollen International Eisteddfod field at 1pm, when local organisations and supporters  led by Sion Corn  parade into the town centre, before finishing at Town Hall.

There youngsters will have the chance to meet Sion Corn at a free Christmas Grotto.

The Christmas Festival has become an integral part of Llangollens winter season and is run by an enthusiastic group of volunteers, this year in partnership with the Llangollen Festival Fringe, added Cllr Keddie.

Its a very good example of local people, organisations and businesses coming together to support the town.

Becky Shields, Manager of the Wild Pheasant Hotel, said: This is the third year that the Wild Pheasant and Everbright Hotels have supported the Christmas Festival.

Our staff are all local and many of them walk to work so our roots are very much in the town and it is important that businesses like our own play their part in the life of the local community.

Thats certainly the philosophy of Everbright Hotels and it is something we are happy to play a leading role in by sponsoring the fireworks display.

Id also like to thank Brian Davies from Festival Fireworks in Cefn Mawr who will be providing the display during the festival. He always does a brilliant job and he also very kindly supplied a snow machine so we could get into the festive spirit for the photoshoot.

Paul Keddie added: The Festival is very grateful for the support of The Wild Pheasant and the many other local businesses for an event which really brings the town together and which raises money for the North Wales Air Ambulance.

Its also a big year for the Everbright Hotels Group which is celebrating its 10th anniversary. The Everbright story started in 2015 when it took over the Rossett Hall Hotel in Rossett, near Wrexham.

Since then it has also added the Llandudno Bay Hotel and the Belmont Hotel in Llandudno and the Wild Pheasant Hotel & Spa, along with Stonecross Manor in Kendal in the Lake District and The George Hotel in Penrith to its portfolio.

Around 300 people are currently employed across all the sites and theyre expecting staff numbers to rise to approximately 400 over the next few years.

For more information go to https://www.everbrightgrouphotels.com/ and for more on the Llangollen Christmas Fair go to (1) Llangollen Christmas Festival | Facebook
Tourism sector being bled dry by red tape, industry leaders warn

Tourism bosses have warned businesses are being bled dry by red tape amid fears new licensing rules will drive small family-owned operators out of the market.

In written evidence to the Senedd, North Wales Tourism urged ministers to slow down, warning of a growing regulatory burden and a 30% business downturn in some areas.

Last week, the Welsh Government set out plans to license self-contained, self-catering accommodation on the back of reforms including a tourism tax and mandatory registration.

North Wales Tourism, which represents more than 1,300 businesses, stated its members feel the sector is being bled dry to fund other priorities without reinvestment.

The not-for-profit membership organisation warned additional red tape risks driving investment toward competitor destinations such as Ireland, France or Spain.

Unimaginable

Appearing before the Senedd economy committee today (November 13), Glenn Evans, who chairs North Wales Tourism, said the industry is already facing a ream of challenges.

Mr Evans warned of a lack of data on the sector, which is Wales largest private-sector employer, warning the bill has the potential to disrupt the marketplace.

The consequential effects of it could be profound, he said. And of a scale as yet unimaginable or able to quantify as far as the Welsh Government is concerned.

He agreed consultation and engagement on the tourism bill had been tokenistic.

Mr Evans, who runs hotels in Betws-y-Coed, Conwy, expressed concerns about the 182-day letting threshold to qualify for business rates instead of the higher council tax.

Huge understatement

A self-catering operator for more than 25 years, he told the committee: There is a cumulative impact, just the sheer volume of legislation to get our heads around.

Mr Evans described layering a licensing scheme for some operators on top of registration as onerous, with some second home owners stopping letting due to the increased burden.

Charlie Reith, a board member of the Short-term Accommodation Association, suggested the tourism bill has been rushed through by Welsh ministers.

We are concerned the Senedd is being asked to approve something without a clear evidence base and time to scrutinise, he said.

He described the Welsh Governments acknowledgement that it has been a particularly busy time for the tourism industry as a huge understatement.

David Chapman, executive director of UKHospitality Cymru, told the committee the industry has been beset by regulations over the past five years.

Underestimate

Mr Reith, who is also an Expedia group director, said: If youre operating a self-catering business, youre facing much more regulation than you have done in previous years.

He said operators face applying for planning permission, 100% increased council tax, removal of small business rates and tax changes for furnished holiday lets.

He told the committee: Cumulatively, that is potentially thousands of pounds in additional costs so any additional requirements or fees have to be seen within that context.

Asked about a 75 annual licence fee, Mr Reith questioned the credibility of the indicative figure and described a 4.5m forecast of compliance costs as an underestimate. A previous evidence session heard fees in Scotland range from 205 to 5,698.

Mr Reith warned too many elements, such as details of the licence renewal process, are left to future regulations rather than set out within the bill providing certainty.

Major events

On enforcement, he suggested powers of entry and inspection set out in the bill were too intrusive and called for reassurance through guidance about how the powers will be used.

Mr Reith argued against plans to potentially make booking platforms criminally liable for ensuring thousands of operators display correct registration details.

Councils warned new licensing rules  which will come into force in 2029, if passed  could impact Wales ability to host major events by deterring casual hosts from renting out rooms.

In written evidence, the Welsh Local Government Association said small-scale providers usually absorb demand during the Six Nations and Royal Welsh Agricultural Show.

Council leaders warned informal hosts may simply withdraw their properties from the market if faced with more compliance costs, putting a squeeze on precious accommodation space.

By Chris Haines, ICNN Senedd reporter
Welsh Government denies accusations Welsh legal jurisdiction is off the cards

The Welsh Governments chief legal adviser flatly denied reports a separate Welsh legal jurisdiction is off the agenda, telling the Senedd: I said no such thing.

Julie James, who is counsel general, said a legal jurisdiction for Wales is inevitably developing and at some point in the future somebodys going to have to acknowledge that it exists  but it exists whether you acknowledge it or not.

Adam Price, Plaid Cymrus shadow counsel general, had expressed concerns about any prospect of a separate Welsh legal jurisdiction being kicked firmly into touch.

Ms James gave a speech at a conference in Bangor and a Law Society Gazette report suggested she was unequivocal in stating separation was off the agenda.

Mr Price asked: Do you take the opportunity now to confirm that the Welsh Government does remain, unequivocally, in favour of establishing a separate Welsh legal jurisdiction?

Dont believe the headlines

Ms James replied: Its another good example of you shouldnt believe what you read in the headlines. I said no such thing. A separate Welsh legal jurisdiction is inevitably developing.

The more laws we make in this place, the more separate they become from the England jurisdiction and, regardless of whether you view it as a separate jurisdiction, a separate body of law is growing up in Wales and lawyers need to be cognisant of that.

Mr Price echoed concerns from Baroness Carr, the lady chief justice of Wales and England, about the Welsh Government shelving plans to reform the Welsh tribunal system.

Conservative Janet Finch-Saunders questioned why it has taken more than two years after a 2023 paper described Welsh tribunals as outdated, inflexible and lacking coherence.

Ms James blamed a legislative logjam in the fifth and final year of the Senedd term, saying a draft tribunal will be published for consideration by the next Welsh Government.

Historically low

During Tuesdays (November 11) counsel general questions, Rhys ab Owen, who sits as an independent, raised plans to expand the Senedd from 60 to 96 members at Mays election.

Mr ab Owen said one of the main arguments to enlarge the Senedd was to have better scrutiny, improving the lives of the people of Wales.

He told the Senedd: Its probably fair to say that maybe that argument hasnt cut through to the general public yet, but the Senedd has historically passed a low number of pieces of legislation compared with other legislatures such as Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The former barrister highlighted that 22 laws were passed in the fifth Senedd  between 2016 and 2021  compared with 76 in Scotland and 46 in Northern Ireland.

He said: In the past, that may have been explained by lack of capacity in this place but thats not going to be the case after next years election.

Financial constraints

Ms James replied: Its an interesting assumption that more legislation equals good and less legislation equals bad. I dont necessarily hold to that. I think we should make laws that are required and not laws for the sake of it to show some kind of league table position.

She added: In the past, the Senedd has passed a small number of bills but they tend to be very big bills and the previous first minister [Mark Drakeford] characterised it to me as if the bus only goes past occasionally, then everybody crams on.

Mr ab Owen also called for the roll-out of family drug and alcohol courts across Wales.

Ms James pointed to challenges including inconsistent service availability, geographic barriers in rural Wales as well as financial constraints at multiple levels.

The former solicitor told the debating chamber or Siambr: Frankly, if we cant solve the financial issues, then we wont be able to solve it at all.

Whilst the court is a very effective court, I think, and solves a number of problems from a judicial point of view  its entirely paid for out of the devolved service budget, so we do need to sort that out as well.

By Chris Haines, ICNN Senedd reporter
UPDATE NOV. 16

The Assembly passes three bills, which are now heading over to the Nevada Senate.

AB5 is one of the bills that passed, specifically the Film Tax Credit. The bill passes 22-20 in the Nevada Assembly.

Another bill makes it through the Assembly, AB4, which is the Government crime bill that passed 31-11.

AB4 deals with various crimes, new ones, and adds penalties for certain offenses.

AB6 also passes unanimously through the Assembly. The bill relates to public safety around school zones and school crossing zones.

It is unclear when the Senate might vote on these three bills.

UPDATE NOV. 15

On day three of the Nevada Legislative special session, a bill is being sent to the governor's desk to be signed after it passes both the Nevada Senate and Assembly.

A bill called SB3 relates to public assistance, providing temporary financial assistance to eligible people and households facing extraordinary circumstances, according to the government document.

The bill also defines an extraordinary circumstance as someone, or a household that is facing something that creates an unusual or significant need for state assistance to protect Nevada residents.

In the Assembly, 42 were yeas, and 0 were Nays. In the Senate, 21 were yeas, and 0 were nays.

The Nevada Assembly Democratic Assembly Democratic Caucus responded, saying the bill is designed to protect Nevada families from potential disruptions to federal SNAP funding.

Tracy Brown-May, Chair of the Select Committee of Health and Wellness, said, Today, I am encouraged and hopeful. This measure creates the mechanism to make sure Nevada families have access to safety net programs and the most basic access to food.

The Chair of the Select Committee also said, "No Nevadan should go hungry. No child should experience a lack of food or the trauma and uncertainty that comes with not knowing when you will eat again. We should NEVER push people into deciding between what is more important - shelter, medicine, or food.

NOV. 14

Rolling into day two of the 36th Nevada Legislative Special Session, things were much slower.

Assembly committee meetings were delayed by hours, but just after 6 p.m., the Assembly Select Committee on Jobs and Economy held the work session for the film tax credits bill. The meeting was originally scheduled for 11 a.m.

"The amendments that we continued to get throughout the day, which is why we were a little bit delayed getting here, because we're trying to get this right," said Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager (D,) District 9, during the meeting.

The legislation is trying to create the Summerlin Production Studios Project in Clark County. Once the capital investment requirement is met from the studios by December 31, 2028, they would be eligible for $95 million per fiscal year in transferable tax credits.

The work session document contains seven pages of amendments.

One of the more notable ones was setting aside money from the room tax to go towards select medical expenses for retired state employees who are insured through the Public Employees' Benefits Program.

The amendments also require the development agreement not to allow the development of a gaming establishment on the Summerlin Studios property.

Another notable change was simplifying the diversity hiring requirement for the project. This did not sit well with Assemblymember Selena Torres-Fossett (D), District 3.

"Diversification in Nevada workers is important to me and important to my family, and I will continue to fight for Nevada workers," she said during the work session. "My 'no' today is to not say those things are not important, but rather this investment does not seem like a good idea."

She, along with four other members of the committee, voted not to pass the motion, but ultimately the motion carried 9-5.

Speaker Yeager was critical of the bill almost not getting a hearing after Assemblymember Selena La Rue Hatch (D), District 25, tried to kill the bill in the assembly chamber on the first day.

"I'm certainly happy that the motion failed because I look out here at the folks that are in this room," Yeager said to the committee room, where there was not an empty seat.

"And I think about what a lack of transparency and what a slap to the face it would have been to Nevadans to not give these folks, whether you support the bill or not, to give these folks a chance to weigh in on this bill," he continued.

La Rue Hatch responded swiftly and released a statement regarding his comments.

"Speaker Yeager chose to make his comments center on the idea of transparency," she sent in a press email. "Lets be clear: I have fought for transparency every step of this Special Session. It was Speaker Yeager who chose to restrict the publics ability to participate by shutting off the phone lines, a move that I strongly opposed on the floor and in committee."

While there's still a lot that needs to be sorted out in the Assembly, the Senate floor is moving rather quickly.

Thursday night, the Senate passed four bills out of its chamber. One of those is a direct response to what we saw with the government shutdown and SNAP benefits.

"There has been a lot of conversation around 'well, couldn't you just declare a fiscal emergency and sweep money from the rainy-day funds,'" said Sen. Nicole Cannizzaro (D), Senate Majority Leader. "The problem with that is we can't sweep money from the rainy-day fund in a fiscal emergency; those funds just bolster current appropriations in the current general fund. They don't go to a program that would allow us to put that money towards people. To allow us to put food on the table for families, and that is one of the struggles that we have had in the last few weeks."

Senate Bill 3 is looking to create the Silver State General Assistance Program in the Nevada Division of Social Services.

It will allow the state to intervene if it deems an "extraordinary circumstance" is taking place to help people who use welfare services.

It passed unanimously.

The other notable bill is looking to address the health care workforce shortage.

"Senate Bill 5 sets up a grant program, $60 million, that will allow for this state to build out the health care infrastructure to bring in specialists," Cannizzaro said.

This legislation was much more contentious. It did pass 15-6, with all Senate Republicans voting no.

"If I support this bill, I am offering up to one million dollars in taxpayer funding for abortions, so I urge a no vote on Senate Bill 5," said Sen. Ira Hansen (R), District 14, during that meeting.

Shortly after, Senate Minority Leader Robin Titus said she likes a lot of what the bill is trying to tackle. However, she felt it would undermine parts of President Trump's Big Beautiful Bill.

"I have great issue with circumventing what our government has said," Titus said.

Those two bills are now awaiting a decision from the Assembly.
STOCKHOLM, Nov. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Saab has today signed a contract with the Colombian Government and received an order for 17 Gripen E/F fighter aircraft. The order value is EUR 3.1 billion and deliveries will take place 2026-2032.

The contract includes 15 Gripen E one-seater and two Gripen F two-seater fighter aircraft as well as associated equipment and weapons, training and services.

Saab and the Colombian Government have today also signed two offset agreements outlining the framework for various military and social projects. These cover a comprehensive industrial cooperation package that will benefit Colombia in areas including aeronautics, cyber security, health, sustainable energy and water purification technology.

"I am honored that Colombia has chosen Gripen E/F to enhance its air defence capabilities and delighted to welcome Colombia into the Gripen family. This marks the beginning of a strong and long-term partnership that will strengthen Colombia's defence and security, benefit its people, and boost the nation's innovation power," says Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab.

Contact

Mattias Radstrom

Head of Media Relations

+46 (0)734 180 018

[email protected]

Saab is a leading defence and security company with an enduring mission, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 26,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world. Saab designs, manufactures and maintains advanced systems in aeronautics, weapons, command and control, sensors and underwater systems. Saab is headquartered in Sweden. It has major operations all over the world and is part of the domestic defence capability of several nations.

The information is such that Saab AB is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person set out above, on 15 November 2025 at 00.15 (CET).

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/saab/r/saab-signs-contract-for-gripen-e-f-with-colombia,c4267619

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/183/4267619/3786611.pdf Saab signs contract for Gripen E-F with Colombia https://news.cision.com/saab/i/saab-gripen-e-fighter-01,c3487777 Saab Gripen E fighter 01 https://news.cision.com/saab/i/saab-gripen-e-fighter-02,c3487778 Saab Gripen E fighter 02 https://news.cision.com/saab/i/micael-johansson---president-and-ceo-saab,c3487780 Micael Johansson - President and CEO Saab

SOURCE Saab
A slurry bomber dumps fire retardant between the Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire and homes on the west side of Las Vegas in May 2022. Several types of aircraft joined the fight to keep the fire away from the northern New Mexico town.

Closest drinking water test labs Closest drinking water test labs Red River Advanced Waste Water Treatment Plant Laboratory Call (575) 754-2277 Environmental Testing Services Co., Inc. (505) 881-0243 Indepth Water Testing (505) 471-2023

High levels of heavy metals were found in Mora Countys groundwater and the New Mexico Department of Health is urging residents to get their wells tested and drink bottled water.

An independent geologic study found antimony, arsenic and uranium in levels that exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys safe drinking water limits, according to a Friday news release from NMDOH. The report also found that the amount of manganese in the water surpassed EPA guidelines.

Other metals, including barium, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, thallium and vanadium, were found in the water at higher concentrations, though they didnt exceed EPA standards.

Although the department is still investigating where the heavy metals came from, they are found in fire suppressants, according to the release. Its possible that the metals could be traced back to firefighting efforts during the 2022 Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire.

There are potential long-term health effects that can develop over several years if people continue to drink untreated water with these levels of metals, said Chelsea Langer, chief of the NMDOH Environmental Health Epidemiology Bureau.

The NMDOH warns that long-term exposure to antimony, arsenic and uranium could cause changes in liver function and blood chemistry, increased risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular disease, as well as brain and nervous system effects and cognitive impairment in children, according to the DOHs fact sheet.

Infants, children and pregnant women are at higher risk of adverse health effects from exposure to these heavy metals.

The department also warned that boiling water will not purify it and can actually make water more concentrated with heavy metals as water evaporates. Instead, the department recommends drinking bottled water and installing a reverse osmosis filtration system in residents homes.

To test if a wells water is contaminated, residents can send samples to one of 45 labs certified to analyze drinking water. The closest labs are in Red River, Santa Fe and Albuquerque.

In light of the news, the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management has a hotline with disaster case managers at (505) 670-4662 to connect Mora County residents to resources.
Nowgam Blast Kills 9, Injures 27; Explosion Linked to Faridabad Terror Module Cache 2

A powerful explosion at Nowgam Police Station in Srinagar killed nine people and injured 27 others late Friday night, after a cache of explosives confiscated from the recently busted white-collar terror module detonated accidentally, officials confirmed on Saturday.

Among the dead were three forensic science experts, two Revenue Department officers including a Naib Tehsildar, two police photographers, one officer from the State Investigation Agency (SIA), and a tailor working at the site. The injured, including 24 police personnel and three civilians, were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Officials said the blast occurred while a team was extracting samples from explosive material brought from Faridabad, Haryana, where a massive cache linked to the terror module had been recovered earlier. Preliminary reports suggest the explosion was caused by the unstable nature of the chemicals, which included ammonium nitrate, potassium nitrate, and sulphur.

The explosives were part of 360 kilograms of material seized from the rented residence of Dr. Muzammil Ganaie, one of the accused arrested in connection with the terror plot. The impact of the blast severely damaged the police station building, while smaller successive explosions hampered rescue operations by the bomb disposal squad for several hours.

According to officials, part of the recovered explosives had been sent to a forensic lab, but a major portion remained stored at the Nowgam police station, where the main case against the module was registered.

The terror network came to light in mid-October after posters threatening police and security forces appeared in Bunpora, Nowgam. Acting on intelligence inputs, Srinagar Police launched an investigation on October 19, leading to the arrest of Arif Nisar Dar, Yasir-ul-Ashraf, and Maqsood Ahmad Dar, all with previous records of stone-pelting.

Their interrogation exposed a radicalisation network led by Maulvi Irfan Ahmad, a former paramedic turned preacher from Shopian, who allegedly influenced medical professionals to join the module. The probe then extended to Al Falah University in Faridabad, where Dr. Ganaie and Dr. Shaheen Sayeed were arrested, and the massive stockpile of explosives was discovered.

Investigators believe the terror module was orchestrated by a core group of doctors  Dr. Muzammil Ganaie, Dr. Umar Nabi (who died driving the car that exploded near Delhis Red Fort on November 10), and Dr. Muzzaffar Rather, who remains absconding.

The role of another accused, Dr. Adeel Rather, the brother of the absconding doctor from whom an AK-56 rifle was recovered, is still under investigation.

Authorities have launched a high-level inquiry into the Nowgam explosion to determine how the seized material was stored and handled, even as Kashmir mourns the deadliest blast in Srinagar in recent years.
A Florida man serving in the U.S. Army in Alabama has been sentenced to prison for producing a child sex abuse video of a 12-year-old.

Sean Jeffery Childers, 36, was sentenced to 15 years in prison, Middle District of Alabama Acting U.S. Attorney Kevin Davidson announced Friday.

The judge also ordered Childers remain on supervised release for five years following completion of his prison term and pay $3,000 in restitution to the victim.

Childers will also be required to register as a sex offender.

According to Childers plea agreement and other court records, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in March 2023 found online child sex abuse material that had been uploaded in Alabama.

They discovered the device used to upload the material was connected to someone serving in the Army and notified the Army Criminal Investigation Division.

The investigation ultimately identified Childers as the source of the uploads.

Investigators carried out a search warrant at Childers home in Opp where agents examined multiple electronic devices.

Forensic analysis turned up numerous images of child sexual abuse materials stored on those devices. In his plea agreement, Childers admits to creating a video including a 12-year-old minor.

In 2024, a federal grand jury in Montgomery, Alabama charged Childers with producing child sexual abuse material.

Childers pleaded guilty to that charge on August 6, 2025.

The Army Criminal Investigation Division investigated the case, with assistance from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, the Covington County Sheriffs Office, the Alabama Attorney Generals Office, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).

Assistant United States Attorney Tara S. Ratz from the Middle District of Alabama and Acting Deputy Chief Kyle Reynolds from the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section prosecuted the case.
State Bureau of Investigation officials are searching for Anastassia Anya Cooper, 32, of Marion, in connection with a Perry County murder. (ALEA)

A search is underway for a woman wanted for questioning in the slaying of a 68-year-old man in Perry County.

Jeffery Holifield, the owner of Cahaba Woodworks in Helena, was found dead Wednesday at his home in the 2000 block of Onrow Tubbs Road in Marion.

Details surrounding the homicide have not been released.

State Bureau of Investigation officials on Friday announced investigators are searching for Anastassia Anya Cooper, 32, of Marion.

Cooper, said ALEA Senior Trooper Brandon Bailey, may be traveling with a mixed-breed dog named Banana.

Cooper has brown hair and brown eyes. She is 5-feet, 9-inches tall and weighs 216 pounds.

Anyone with information on Coopers whereabouts is asked to call SBI at 334-850-0910.
A rendering of the future Butting manufacturing campus in Loxley, Ala. The German stainless steel manufacturing announced on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, that it was building its North American headquarters in Baldwin County. Courtesy of Butting and Hargrove

A German stainless steel manufacturing company building its North American headquarters in Loxley celebrated the start of its construction project Thursday by planting a tree.

The moment of environmental sustainability underscored Butting USAs commitment to Loxley in what it called a symbolic rooting ceremony.

Indeed, corporate symbolism carries commitment. A live oak tree can take up to 50 years to fully mature.

Our decision to set down roots in Baldwin County speaks to our confidence in the people, infrastructure, and future of this region, said Adrian Rochofski, CEO and Managing Director of Butting USA.

By planting this live oak, we symbolize our commitment to growing and thriving here for generations to come.

The company is investing $61 million into the new U.S. operations on 58 acres at the Loxley Logistics Center.

The investment includes two phases  the first one establishing local administrative operations, engineering and fabrication of stainless steel spools, components and cryogenic pipe systems. That project is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2027.

The second phase expands to include two state-of-the-art welded stainless steel pipe mills and additional fabrication capabilities to serve advanced industries across North America. The second phase is expected to be completed before the end of 2029.

Butting USA and Baldwin County officials announced the companys intentions to build its North American headquarters in Loxley in July.

The company is receiving more than $16 million in tax incentives to build the facility in Loxley. The company, as part of its agreement with the Alabama Department of Commerce, vows to add at least 83 new full-time jobs with an average hourly wage of $30.

According to the Department of Commerce, the state is anticipating a $26.3 million addition of new revenues over 20 years. In addition, the state estimates the facility generating $118.4 million in new payroll over 20 years.

Alabama continues to prove that we are the premier destination for global manufacturers looking to grow and succeed in America, Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey said in a statement. This investment brings good-paying jobs, while further cementing Alabamas place as a leader in American manufacturing and international business.

One of the biggest selling points for locating in Loxley was the opening, last year, of Baldwin Preparatory Academy. The $100 million school provides vocational training for high school students that includes welding courses which are crucial to Buttings workforce.

A tour of the new school made an impression on Hermann Butting, who heads up the family-owned business.
US Senator Katie Britt, Republican from Alabama, speaks as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz listens during an announcement by President Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on October 16, 2025. (Photo by ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS / AFP) (Photo by ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images

Alabama Sen. Katie Britt said a trip home for her 25th high school reunion underlined the looming perils for working Alabamians if the government shutdown continued.

Britt spoke to Todd Stacy on Capital Journal about the experience after receiving accolades for her role in bringing the shutdown - the longest in the nations history - to an end.

The Senate approved a resolution Monday to end the shutdown by a 60-40 vote, the minimum needed to overcome the filibuster that led to the standoff. The House also approved the measure, which was eventually signed by President Donald Trump.

Britt said she saw several former classmates at the reunion who were affected by the shutdown - either furloughed from their jobs or not receiving pay.

One from Huntsville asked her how much longer the shutdown would last, she said.

If this lasts longer than a week, Im going to have to close my business, she said he told her.

On a flight home, she also encountered a man who worked with a food bank who told her about an increasing number of people needing assistance.

The shutdown threatened hardships nationally and especially in Alabama, including the families of about 750,000 people in the state who depend on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and the businesses where they buy food.

These were real implications for real people, Britt said.

She gave credit to Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota, Sens. Jeanne Shaheen, (D-N.H.), Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va. and Susan Collins (R-Maine) for their work.

You cant break a logjam without having a conversation, Britt told Stacy.

The legislation restored funding to the government through Jan. 30.

Still, a major sticking point in the shutdown - enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies which are set to expire at years end - still needs a resolution.

The subsidies, first approved in 2021 and extended a year later, lower insurance costs and make those earning more than 400% of the federal poverty level eligible for tax credits through the marketplace.

As many as 130,000 Alabamians could lose health insurance coverage without the subsidies, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation.

Britt told the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce earlier this week that a one-year extension would not be sufficient, according to the Alabama Reflector.

A proposal of just a one-year extension doesnt deal with any of the issues that are in front of us on that, she said. There is no income cap for anyone who receives those subsidies.

On Capitol Journal, Britt said no Republican had ever voted for the ACA or its subsequent legislation, and it was Democrats which had set the deadline for the extension this year. A straight extension will not pass, she said, and there is no income cap.

Thune has said he will hold a vote on the subsidies in December.

I do think there is a larger conversation to be had here about healthcare and about the cost, she said. I think there will be some bipartisan conversations.
As of October 2023, Mobile's Providence Hospital, known for a time as Ascension Providence, is officially USA Health Providence Hospital. Lawrence Specker | LSpecker@AL.com

UnitedHealthcare members no longer have in-network coverage for services at Mobiles Providence Hospital.

The break comes after months of negotiations, according to the hospital, and patients as a result may face higher out-of-pocket costs.

The expired contracts apply to both employer-sponsored commercial and exchange plans and Medicare Advantage plans.

USA Health CEO Natalie Fox said talks broke down after five months.

We understand how important uninterrupted access to care is for our patients, Fox said.

The hospital had warned back in October that coverage could lapse.

UnitedHealthcare did not respond to requests for comment.

UnitedHealthcare policyholders will continue to have in-network insurance coverage at all other USA Health facilities, including University Hospital, Childrens & Womens Hospital, the Freestanding Emergency Department and all clinics.

UnitedHealthcare policyholders with questions are being directed to a website.

According to the hospital, plans currently accepted by Providence Hospital include:

*Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama  Commercial and Medicare Advantage

*Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi  Blue Card

* Humana  ChoiceCare, Military Tricare  AL, Medicare Advantage HMO and PPO

*Cigna  Commercial and Cigna Healthspring  Medicare Advantage

*Aetna - Commercial and Medicare Advantage

*Viva  Health and Medicare Advantage

*Medicaid  Alabama and Mississippi

*Medicare  Alabama and Railroad

*Ambetter  Alabama and Mississippi Exchange/Marketplace plans

*Devoted Health  Medicare Advantage

*Magnolia  Mississippi Exchange Plan

*Mississippi Physician Care Network  MPCN  PPO

*Molina  Mississippi CHIP  CAN  Exchange

*Multiplan Inc  Alabama

*Trucare of Mississippi

*Wellcare of Mississippi  Medicare Advantage

As a not-for-profit academic health system, USA Health relies on fair partnerships with insurance companies to continue offering advanced treatments, innovative research and access to skilled providers for patients, Fox stated in a news release.

Its not the first time UnitedHeathcare has been involved in a dispute with an Alabama medical center.

In October 2024, Huntsville Hospital Health System announced that it had sent a notice of termination to the insurer after several months of disappointing negotiations; a month later, just before the termination actually took effect, a new agreement was announced. Birmingham-based UAB Health System had a similar dispute in June but struck a tentative deal as the deadline loomed at the end of July and announced a new multi-year agreement in August. Mobile-based Infirmary Health System previously went through a similar process in summer 2024.
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A Scottsboro man died in a crash involving an all-terrain vehicle Friday morning.

Senior Trooper Brandon Bailey of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) said the incident happened at about 9:30 a.m. Friday on Swearengin Road near Rice Road, about four miles east of Grant in Marshall County.

Brian K. Allen, 55, was driving a 2019 John Deere Gator ATV when it was struck by a 2018 Ford Flex driven by Amanda D. Weeks, 50, of Grant.

After the initial impact, the John Deere left the roadway and overturned into a ditch.

Allen was not using a seat belt at the time of crash, Bailey said. He was ejected and pronounced dead at the scene.

Weeks was also injured and transported to Huntsville Hospital for treatment.

A passenger of the John Deere, Elijah E. Reed, 69, also of Scottsboro, was injured and airlifted to Huntsville Hospital for treatment. Reed was ejected and was not using a seat belt at the time of crash, Bailey said.

Troopers with ALEAs Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate.
TOPSHOT - US Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R) speaks alongside former US President and 2024 presidential hopeful Donald Trump at a campaign event in Rome, Georgia, on March 9, 2024. (Photo by Elijah Nouvelage / AFP) (Photo by ELIJAH NOUVELAGE/AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images

President Donald Trump has gone sour on one of his most vocal supporters, announcing a break with Georgia Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene.

In a Truth Social post Friday night, Trump said he is withdrawing his support for Greene, stating that she has gone Far Left.

After citing his accomplishments since his January inaugural, Trump stated all I see Wacky Marjorie do is COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN! It seemed to all begin when I sent her a Poll stating that she should not run for Senator, or Governor, she was at 12%, and didnt have a chance (unless, of course, she had my Endorsement  which she wasnt about to get!).

According to Trump, Greene has told others she is upset that I dont return her phone calls anymore, though he stated he has to deal with Congress, his cabinet and other countries, in addition to an otherwise normal life...

I cant take a ranting Lunatics call every day, Trump said, before inviting any primary challengers against Greene in the next election, saying they will have my Complete and Unyielding Support.

She has gone Far Left, even doing The View, with their Low IQ Republican hating Anchors. Thank you for your attention to this matter. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! Trump wrote.

Greenes appearance on the View earlier this month prompted host Sunny Hostin to remark You are very different person than I thought you were, during a 30-minute interview that featured Greene at the table alongside the shows five hosts.

A fiery personality who spoke in Huntsville earlier this year, Greene has denied moderating over the last few months as she has stepped up criticism of Trump and her fellow Republicans.
Zorhan Mamdani's election to the New York City mayor's office should warn conservatives of the dangers of politicians bought and elected by the rich, Mo Brooks writes. (Photo by Ron Adar / SOPA Images/Sipa USA)(Sipa via AP Images) Sipa USA via AP

This is an opinion column

Republican knives are out for Zohran Mamdani after his crushing victory as New York Citys mayor-elect.

And deservedly so.

The Republican National Committee says Mamdani is a self-proclaimed Communist.

President Trump says Mamdani is a 100% Communist Lunatic.

Republican Texas Senator Ted Cruz says Comrade Mamdani  is a full-on Communist.

Mamdani denies this, saying he is a Democrat Socialist,not a Communist.

But thats what Mamdani would say if he is a Communist. Cubas Fidel Castro said the same thing until he garnered enough power to jail, deport or kill his foes.

Mamdanis socialist policies are evil

Mamdani encourages and supports seizing the means of production.

More specifically, Mamdani supports abolition of private property when necessary to guarantee each person housing and supports government take-overs of health care, grocery stores, and bus lines, thereby seizing property and facilities from people who have earned them to give to those who have not.

In my book, forcibly seizing what a person has earned is evil regardless of whether the owner is a person or a government.

That is socialism.

Communism is worse than socialism

Regardless of whether Mamdani is socialist or communist, he will inflict great economic damage on New York City.

But, if Mamdani is a communist, his goals are far more sinister because the history of communism is murder and death.

The Soviet Unions Joseph Stalin and Communist Chinas Mao Zedong combined to kill literally millions (perhaps tens of millions) of people for the crime of preferring liberty and freedom.

Regardless of whether it is China, the Soviet Union, North Korea, Vietnam, Cuba, or any other communist country, the result has been murder and death for freedom-loving citizens.

Murder is as evil as evil gets.

Freedom vs. tyranny

Free enterprise is Americas economic model.

Free enterprises premises are simple. Freedom is better than dictatorial rule. Free enterprise competition forces producers to provide goods and services better, faster, and cheaper . . . or go out of business.

In free enterprise, the individual decides how to best use his talents

Over the long haul, everyone benefits, with the result being that America produces and enjoys more wealth than any nation in world history and can similarly afford the most powerful military in world history.

In stark contrast, in socialism, liberty and freedom are the enemy. Government bureaucrats dictate who produces and consumes what.

For individuals, thats a huge difference.

Communism is socialism plus one-party, dictatorial rule. Democracy is killed.

Liberty and freedom versus government tyranny. In America, that should be an easy voter choice . . . but not in New York City!

Is Mamdani a Communist?

While it is impossible to read Mamdanis mind, in addition to admittedly supporting Socialism (a Communism subpart), in 2020 Mamdani wrote, Each according to their need, each according to their ability, a comment strikingly like Karl Marxs The Communist Manifesto : From each according to his ability, to each according to his needs.

Historians add, When Marxists today say they are socialists, they usually want to convey the impression that they believe in elections and not just in shooting your way into power.  Of course, that election often ends up being the last free and fair one. Witness Venezuela."

New York tax hell

Regardless of whether communist or socialist, Mamdani is bad for America and disastrous for New York City.

The principal problem with Socialism is that it has failed in every nation that has tried it, where failure is defined as a countrys inability to generate enough wealth to fund both an adequate national defense and a safety net for those unable to provide for themselves.

As Britain Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher astutely observed, The problem with socialism is that you eventually run out of other peoples money.

Which brings us to the tax hell New York City residents voted to suffer.

Paying for socialism

New York state residents pay a 4-10.9% state income tax, 4% sales tax, and 1.54% assessed property tax. On top of that, New York City residents pay an additional 3.078-3.876% city income tax, 4.875% city sales tax, and a property tax of 1.2% of their homes fair market value (6% assessment rate times 20% tax rate).

Americans are protected by the Constitutions 5th and 14th Amendments Due Process Clauses that require government compensation to owners of property seized. Mamdani cant get around that.

Now imagine how high already-oppressive New York City taxes must skyrocket to pay for Mamdanis socialist experiment: free healthcare, free buses, government-run grocery stores, social workers  not police, free government housing, and the like.

New York City: Good luck with that!

It wont be pretty.

A warning for conservatives

Mamdanis election obviously warns freedom-loving Americans. But it does more.

It also highlights underlying problems in America that foment the rise of socialists and communists.

Too many American elected officials are bought and elected by the uber-rich who use their puppets to buy public policies that unjustifiably pad their own wallets, all to the detriment of lower- and middle-income Americans, who, in turn, are justifiably sickened by a republic that ignores or worsens their plight.

Unless this underlying oppression and hopelessness are satisfactorily addressed, more and more Americans will do what New York City did: elect socialists (or worse) to better balance the class warfare scales.

And, if socialists gain control of America, then more of Margaret Thatchers wisdom becomes salient: The signposts of socialism point downhill to less freedom, less prosperity, downhill to more muddle, more failure. If we follow them to their destination, they will lead this nation into bankruptcy.

America must not go there. Our lives and country depend on it.
Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle delivers his annual State of the City address on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025, at the Von Braun Center. Scott Turner/AL.com

Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle made a pitch for more state and federal funding for road projects during his State of the City address Friday at the Von Braun Center.

Weve got to push to get our fair share of the infrastructure money back in the Tennessee Valley, he said after his speech. Battle singled out area legislators in stressing the need for funds as the states largest city embarks on the second phase of its Restore Our Roads initiative in which it collaborates with the Alabama Department of Transportation.

Huntsville is the regional employment center for north Alabama, the mayor said. We have to have an efficient, swift and safe transportation network. Its vital.

On the citys wish list are a five-lane project for Winchester Road, a U.S. 72 East widening project, the U.S. 72 West widening, Interstate 565 interchanges at Resolute Way (exit 13) and Memorial Parkway and the Arsenal East Connector.

All of those have got to be done over the next 10 years, Battle said.

The mayor said the Resolute Way Interchange at I-565 would improve access to Redstone Arsenals Gate 9. The Arsenal East Connector, now in the early design phase, will be a new access road from the interstate to Redstone Arsenal Gate 1.

Battle said the city was working with state legislators, state and federal partners to secure a new intersection at 565 (and Memorial Parkway).

City officials have estimated the cost for the Resolute Way interchange at $60 million. According to the ALDOT report to the Huntsville Area Metropolitan Planning Organization in August, the Arsenal East Connector is expected to cost $30 million. The report said nearly $390 million in projects were under design or construction in the Huntsville metro area.

Battle said some of the projects were nearing completion. That included the $44.2 million Mastin Lake-Memorial Parkway project that includes an overpass and the $43 million Northern Bypass from Pulaski Pike to Memorial Parkway.

Mastin Lake will allow motorists continued access on the Parkway from north to south Huntsville, the mayor said. The Northern Bypass intersection on North Memorial Parkway is already open while were finishing up on the remaining bypass. Once completed, this loop road will connect Redstone Arsenal to Cummings Research Park to North Parkway and beyond through Meridianville and Hazel Green.

The Huntsville City Council last week approved a land sale that paves the way for the development of the $240 million North Village Town Center that will include a Super Target and Home Depot at the already open Northern Bypass intersection.

Were also finishing up the last five segments of Martin Road, which gives another major corridor from I-565 to Gate 7 at Redstone, Battle said.

Housing priority

Another focus of the city, Battle said, was affordable housing.

Huntsville is on track also to receive 4,000 new housing units by the years end, marking our fourth consecutive year of record housing growth the mayor said. Since 2020, weve added more than 20,000 housing units to give residents more choices. They have the choice of being urban or suburban. The choices go to young professionals or retirees, first time buyers or long-term homeowners.

Battle mentioned construction starting next year on the Mill Creek Choice Neighborhood Initiative, a mixed income community with affordable and market rate housing and dedicated employee housing for Huntsville Hospital and support services.

This $400 million new development will also include workforce development, job opportunities and enhance our activities downtown, he said.
FILE - Then-Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File) AP

Donald Trumps would-be assassin was programmed by the government to kill the then-presidential candidate, but all evidence of the conspiracy no longer exists, according to a Republican congressman from Tennessee.

Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., said he was skeptical that top-secret CIA operations like the discredited MK Ultra program are no longer active, and that MK Ultra or a similar operation laid the groundwork for Thomas Crooks assassination attempt on Trump in Butler, Pa., during the 2024 presidential campaign.

I dont believe them as far as I can throw the dome off the dadgum Capitol, Burchett said of the CIA during an appearance Friday on conservative influencer Benny Johnsons podcast.

You got a kid whos got access to guns or has some simple knowledge of a firearm. He was programmed, Burchett said of Crooks.

Rep. Tim Burchett says Trump assassin Thomas Crooks was groomed by CIA and MKUltra style mind control programs and dark intelligence ops for the sole purpose of taking out President Trump in Butler, PA.



"They programmed this kid. You got a kid who's got access to guns or has pic.twitter.com/Kzkcf39FyP  Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) November 14, 2025

The Tennessee congressman did not blame top Trump administration law enforcement officials like Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, FBI Director Kash Patel and FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino for failing to expose the conspiracy.

They programmed this kid, and Kristi Noem and Kash and Bongino and the rest are reporting the facts as they know them, Burchett told Johnson. The facts have been buried or burned or whoever knew is sitting on a beach somewhere and enjoying a fruity drink or theyre dead. I would suggest theyre probably dead.

Burchett claimed the conspiracy is too deep and that mass firings would be too risky for national security to be a viable solution to uncovering it.

Thats why Kash Patel and Bongino are having such a hard time. But I think at their level, thats what happened, he said.

Burchett claimed U.S. intelligences changing stories have made him skeptical.

I dont care. You can call me a lunatic, but when the CIA says this thing, we dont have this [program] and then their assets are brought in a court of law. They say, Oh, we have it but we dont use it anymore, he said.

Apparently, somebody is using it. They know to contact these people.

The congressman also claimed the Deep State washed the crime scene and probably violated laws by allowing Crooks body to be cremated before a thorough investigation could be conducted.

And if there was an investigation going on theres probably something in the law that says you cannot dispose of the body. I think all of it, it was washed, it was planned and we just got off lucky, he said.

The congressman suggested U.S. intelligence could get away with conspiracies because of the apathy of American voters.

Look at where were at in this country. Look at the Deep State, the sewer as it is. Its disgusting. And this is what happens, dude, when 12% of the population goes to the polls. Were so vulnerable and we have very few people in the lineup that could do the damage to them like Trump, Burchett said. Trumps right. Theyre not after him. Theyre after us. And hes just standing in the way.
Logitech is well-known for its wide range of PC products, and is one of the latest companies to suffer a data breach, having reported on November 14 that its systems were hacked and that data was stolen from them. Logitech filed a Form 8-K with the US Securities and Exchange Commission confirming the details of the hack, which was noticed by Bleeping Computer.

The company was quick to point out that its business operations and products were safe from the hack and that there was nothing to worry about regarding those things in particular. Logitech also states that it moved quickly to take steps to protect its systems from being further compromised and investigate the incident.

The Logitech data breach likely contains no sensitive information like credit card numbers

According to Logitech, data stolen from the systems that were impacted by the breach should only include limited information about customers and employees. The company wasnt specific about what the information was, but it was clear about one thing.

It doesnt think any of the data that was stolen was sensitive, such as credit card numbers or national ID numbers. If this is the case, then customers probably have nothing to worry about. That being said, Logitech says it doesnt think this was the kind of information that was stolen. It doesnt say without a shadow of a doubt that this kind of information wasnt stolen. Those are two different things.

So, as always in these kinds of situations, youll want to take your own precautions and protect yourself and your sensitive data. It wouldnt be a bad idea to keep a close eye on any sensitive information that may have been tied to Logitechs systems. Such as your credit and debit card information, email address, Logitech account passwords, and the like. Consumers are probably safe, as are employees, but it never hurts to be prepared.

As per the report, the hack is claimed to have been carried out by an organization called the Clop team. Clop was behind the Oracle E-Business Suite hack that happened back in July. Clop used a zero-day vulnerability to breach Logitechs systems, the same type of vulnerability it used on Oracle months ago. This same kind of vulnerability was used on Chrome browser users, and was recently discovered to have been hiding inside Samsung phones for nearly a year.
British soldiers hold a 3D-printed drone. The Bambu Labs 3D printer used to make the device is visible in the background - British Army

The British Army is using Chinese-made 3D printers to build weapons despite national security concerns.

Troops have taken the Chinese technology with them into the field and used it to make suicide drones for attack missions.

Officers want to train whole platoons to use the 3D printers, which would enable them to be armed with a virtually endless supply of weapons.

But on Saturday, security experts said Britain might as well hand China the keys to the back door of our security systems, and accused ministers of using Chinese-made technology to save money despite security fears.

They said defence chiefs had not learnt lessons after Huawei, the Chinese tech giant, was banned from the UKs 5G network over security concerns.

A British Army Bambu Labs 3D-printer creating an FPV suicide drone - Via British Army

Britains relationship with China is already under heightened scrutiny following the collapse of a high-profile spy trial, blamed on the Governments refusal to describe China as a threat to British national security.

It provoked a row in Westminster, with Sir Keir Starmer accused of sabotaging the prosecution to protect Britains ties with China.

Last week, it was reported that Britain had scaled back its scientific links with China since the spying scandal, with ministers deciding to prioritise collaboration in uncontroversial areas that did not entail a security risk.

But The Telegraph can disclose that British troops used portable 3D printers, manufactured by Bambu Labs, during a military exercise in Kenya earlier this year.

They used the technology to make first person view (FPV) suicide drones in the field and deploy them on attack missions.

Maj Stephen Watts, Officer Commanding F Company, 3rd Battalion, The Rifles Regiment, said the weapons proved their worth and added that he would like to have tens, if not hundreds, of self-built FPVs flying, which will make the formation extremely lethal.

Speaking to Soldier, the Armys official magazine, he said: Imagine if we had whole platoons trained to use these weapons on operations, armed with a virtually endless supply of them. That would increase the Armys fighting power many times over.

We only used our self-made platforms sparingly  but they are potent, flying at 190mph for three-and-a-half minutes, which means they can cover 15 miles and are very hard to intercept.

British soldiers deployed drones as part of joint defence exercises conducted with the Kenyan army near the town of Nanyuki - British Army

The Chinese government has classified 3D printing as a strategic industry, meaning huge state subsidies are available for companies.

Under Chinas National Intelligence Law, passed in 2017, companies can be compelled to share data with the government, including filenames, timestamps and machine logs.

Luke de Pulford, the executive director of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, said: The difficulty is that there is not really a private company in China  certainly not when it comes to subsidised strategic industries.

Those categories matter  they dont pump huge amounts of money into certain industries for no reason. They do this not just to consolidate CCP [Chinese Communist Party] control at home but CCP control abroad. They are making sure they can bend other countries to their will.

Robert Clark, a defence expert and visiting fellow at the Council on Geostrategy, said the decision to use a Chinese company for the armys 3D printing was outrageous and shameful.

The Ministry of Defence are just not learning their lessons on this, he said. We may as well be handing them the keys to the back door of our security systems.

The big picture is that the MoD is currently facing a 2.5bn black hole for the next financial year, and they are clearly doing things now on the cheap. This is saying: We dont want to invest in British or even other Western companies which are more secure  lets just turn to China to plug those gaps.

This is 100 per cent going to come back and bite the Army and the Government. It is a house of cards waiting to fall down, and when it does it is going to be severe.

Not all 3D printers are made in China. This Australian cold metal printer was tested by the British Army in the field last year - Duncan Colin Campbell/MoD

Ed Arnold, a senior research fellow for European security at the Royal United Services Institute, said the use of the Chinese technology was very concerning.

He added: China, Russia and North Korea are working together in a variety of areas. One area that is consistent is technology transfer. That is a core part of what is driving them together. The Chinese extract the data and then likely hand it to the Russians.

An industry source told The Telegraph that 3D printing was a hot topic in defence, particularly following the success Ukraine has had in making drones on the front lines of the war against Russia.

The source said: So far they have mostly been used for printing drones  the parts are quick and cheap to make and you can make them anywhere. But people do not realise that every 3D printer has a tiny but powerful computer on the inside. There has not been a public discussion about security implications.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said: Protecting national security is the foundation of everything we do. We have strict security procedures in place to ensure all sensitive information is protected.

There is no evidence that Bambu Labs printers store information which could be passed to Chinese authorities. 3D printers are not connected to the defence network and are not used to produce any sensitive materials.

MoD officials said they took all allegations very seriously and explored all threats to national security.
Asylum seekers could lose their automatic right to housing and financial support under Labours radical immigration crackdown.

Home secretary Shabana Mahmood will indicate a move away from EU law as she announces plans to scrap the UKs statutory duty to provide support to asylum seekers  with migrants also facing stricter requirements to receive and retain benefits.

She will also lay out plans meaning refugees who arrive in Britain via small boats or lorries need to wait 20 years before they can apply to settle permanently in the country.

It is part of a major overhaul of the immigration system, inspired by the Danish model, and comes as Labour battles to restore public trust in the asylum system to see off the threat of a Reform UK government. But Ms Mahmood may face objections from some Labour backbenchers, with immigration reform seen as a divisive issue within the party.

Follow live updates on our politics blog HERE

Ahead of a speech by the home secretary laying out the reforms on Monday, the Home Office said that support will no longer be a given for asylum seekers, vowing that automatic handouts for those seeking refuge will end.

Shabana Mahmood will give a speech laying out the reforms on Monday (PA Wire)

The announcement is being billed by the government as the largest overhaul of asylum policy in modern times and a move to restore order to the rules.

Ministers hope it will reduce the incentive for small boat migrants to claim refuge in the UK, with Home Office officials insisting Britain will no longer be a magnet for illegal migrants seeking to benefit.

Outlining her changes, Ms Mahmood said the pace and scale of migration is putting immense pressure on communities.

She said: This country has a proud tradition of welcoming those fleeing danger, but our generosity is drawing illegal migrants across the channel.

The pace and scale of migration is placing immense pressure on communities.

This week I will set out the most sweeping changes to our asylum system in a generation. We will restore order and control to our borders.

The legal duty to provide asylum-seeking support was introduced in the UK in 2005 under EU law.

The Home Office said it wants to make Britain less attractive to small boat migrants (PA Wire)

Currently, support includes the right to somewhere to live, as well as a weekly payment of 49.18 per person in each household to cover costs of items such as food, clothing and toiletries. If the accommodation provides meals, each person gets 9.95 per week instead. There are small increases for pregnant women and young children.

Under Ms Mahmoods plans, those who can work, have assets, fail to comply with removal directions, engage in criminality, disrupt accommodation settings or work illegally could have their support removed, the Home Office said.

The changes are set to apply to people who are already in the asylum support system, as well as anybody who arrives and applies in the future  meaning those already in the UK could have their support taken away.

Meanwhile, officials have also said that taxpayer-funded benefits will be prioritised for people who are making a contribution to the economy and communities.

Among the changes expected to be unveiled on Monday is a move requiring judges to prioritise public safety over a migrants right to a family life, as well as a push to scrap permanent asylum in Britain.

Latest YouGov Westminster voting intention (9-10 Nov 2025)



Reform UK: 26% (-1 from 2-3 Nov)

Labour: 19% (-1)

Con: 18% (+2)

Green: 15% (-1)

Lib Dem: 14% (-1)

SNP: 3% (=)



Results link in replies pic.twitter.com/UD0IAkIVth  YouGov (@YouGov) November 11, 2025

Under current rules, those granted refugee status can apply for indefinite leave to remain and have refugee status for five years. But, under the expected proposals, refugees will be removed as soon as their home country is deemed safe.

It comes after officials in the Home Office visited Copenhagen as part of their attempts to learn about Denmarks asylum policy, where a strict asylum approach has been taken by a government with similar political alignment to the Labour Party.

The country is also a signatory to the European Convention on Human Rights, which has been criticised in the past for blocking or slowing efforts to deport illegal migrants.

The Scandinavian country has reduced the number of asylum applications to their lowest level in 40 years, and removed 95 per cent of rejected asylum seekers, according to the Home Office.

The Tories have said that some of the new measures are welcome but they stop well short of what is really required and some are just yet more gimmicks  like the previous smash the gangs gimmick.

Shadow home secretary Chris Philp said: The truth is this Labour government is incapable of getting any real change past their left-wing backbenchers, especially after the weak example they set with the debacle of their botched welfare reforms.

Labour is coming under pressure on immigration as Reforms poll numbers continue to surge.

Nigel Farages party is sitting at 26 per cent in the latest YouGov Westminster voting intention figures from this week, with Labour lagging behind on 19 per cent, just ahead of the Tories on 18 per cent.

This is the latest in a series of crackdowns, including the immigration white paper earlier this year, designed to slash legal migration.

Under those plans announced in May, legal migrants will have to spend 10 years in the UK before applying for citizenship, and language requirements will be upped for all routed into the UK.

Now the home secretary intends to increase the time it will take to get permanent residence to 20 years.

The number of asylum applications in the UK is at a record high, as the latest Home Office figures show 111,084 people applied for asylum in the year to June 2025.

This is the highest number for any 12 months since records began in 2001.
Britains young people are at risk of becoming a lost generation if youth unemployment does not improve, a Labour peer has warned Sir Keir Starmer.

It comes after new analysis by The Guardian shows almost half of all jobs shed since Labour came to power are among the under-25s.

Unemployment in Britain has risen to the highest level in close to five years, after Office for National Statistics (ONS) data showed a higher-than-expected rise to five per cent in the three months to September.

The new figures suggest the crisis is being fuelled by a rapid drop in opportunities available to young people. As many as 46 per cent of the 170,000 jobs that disappeared since June last year are from those under the age of 25, the newspaper reports.

As many as 46 per cent of the 170,000 jobs that disappeared since June last year are from those under the age of 25 (Getty Images)

Former Labour education secretary David Blunkett warned the prime minister there is a possibility a whole generation would be let down by the lack of opportunity under his watch.

I think weve got to get our act together. Its a lost generation and if we dont do something now the consequences economically, societally and personally will be devastating, he said.

Some 948,000 young people in Britain are classified as Neets  not in education, employment or training  about one in eight of the 18-24 age group. Official figures released this week show 137,000 young people have been unemployed for longer than 12 months - the highest level in a decade.

Ministers are now preparing for the possibility the number of Neets may surge to over one million when fresh figures are released on Thursday, according to The Guardian.

Ms Reeves laid out her plans for a youth guarantee scheme (Justin Tallis/PA) (PA Wire)

At the Labour Party conference in September, chancellor Rachel Reeves launched a youth guarantee scheme aimed at lifting young people out of unemployment.

The programme will see all people aged 18 to 21 who have been out of work for 18 months given jobs. If young people refuse to take the jobs without a reasonable excuse, they will face sanctions such as losing their benefits.

Announcing the policy, she promised nothing less than the abolition of long-term youth unemployment.

Ms Reeves is set to lay out the funding for the policy in next weeks Budget. But she is facing intense scrutiny from markets and politicians alike as she looks to land on policies to fill an estimated 30bn hole in the public finances.

Shadow chancellor Mel Stride hit out at Ms Reeves, laying the blame for any lost generation at her feet. Any lost generation is on the chancellor, he said. You dont get more young people into work by punishing the very businesses that hire them.
JUSTIN TALLIS/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo

In an interview with The Sunday Telegraph two years ago, Rachel Reeves sought to reassure Middle England that a Labour government could be trusted with their prosperity. Her words were clear and unambiguous: we have no plans for a wealth tax I dont see the way to prosperity as being through taxation. I want to grow the economy.

In response to questions about an annual tax on the value of homes, or higher council tax bands, a Labour source added further clarity: the denial also applied to any form of mansion tax.

These pledges, along with last years promise that the Chancellor wouldnt be coming back with more borrowing or more taxes, have now gone up in smoke. With Labour in a fiscal hole of its own making, Ms Reeves is planning an outrageous raid on property.

Some 2.4 million properties in council tax bands F, G and H will be revalued. The 300,000 most valuable properties across the country will then be hit with a new surcharge, potentially levying hundreds or in some cases thousands of pounds in additional taxes each year.

Economists on the Left may be tempted to praise this approach. It is all too common to hear from this group that property is undertaxed, or that those who own valuable homes pay proportionately less, and that the Treasury is leaving money on the table.

These rationales are wrong. The taxation of housing is little different to the taxation of other forms of wealth: a destructive disincentive to saving and investment which targets the stock acquired, rather than the flow of incomes.

If a house has an extension built which increases its value, it is worth more. If being worth more means facing a higher tax burden, then this will act as a powerful disincentive to enlarging properties or in other ways improving them, and potentially to building new, spacious homes.

While the ability to defer paying until homeowners move or die will avoid people being forced out of their homes, it will also introduce new frictions in the housing market, and create an additional form of inheritance tax charge.

Perhaps more marked is the moral argument against this destructive tax. By directly targeting wealth, it would constitute a shift in the relationship between citizens and the state. In addition to demanding a stream of income, the state would now take a cut of assets too: in effect asserting rights to private property and wealth, in a view more consistent with a world where property is leased from the state rather than owned by private individuals.

This might appeal to the utopian socialism of the Labour Party. The history of attempts to tax property in this country suggest, however, that it is rather less likely to appeal to the British public.
An 85-year-old British woman has died in Portugal after Storm Claudia hit a holiday campsite in the south of the country.

A regional commander of the Algarve identified the woman and said dozens of people were injured in the region after extreme winds struck the area.

According to media reports, the woman was initially reported missing at a campsite, but was later found dead.

Luis Montenegro, Portugal's prime minister, sent his "heartfelt condolences" to the family of the woman, who has not been named. He said officials had responded with full commitment and the greatest possible speed, but serious consequences could not be avoided."

The storm, named by the Spanish meteorological service, hit the UK on Friday and caused devastating floods in Monmouthshire, South Wales, where a major incident was declared.

Dozens of people were rescued from their homes or evacuated in the town of Monmouth following severe flooding when the River Monnow burst its banks.

Storm Claudia caused devastating floods in Monmouth, Wales (Kim Kaos)

Some 119.6mm of rainfall was recorded at a Natural Resources Wales rain gauge at Tafalog in Gwent, south-east Wales, in the 12 hours to 6am on Saturday, while 80.6mm was recorded over the same period at Suckley, Worcestershire, the Met Office said.

The Environment Agency also issued 86 flood warnings and 190 flood alerts in England by 10am on Saturday.

As well as heavy rain and fast-flowing flood waters, punishing winds also hit north-west Wales and north-west England during Storm Claudia, including 63mph recorded at Aberdaron in Gwynedd and 68mph at Warcop Range in Cumbria.

In a statement, the Welsh government said: Storm Claudia has caused significant flooding in parts of Wales overnight, which continues to affect homes, businesses, transport and energy infrastructure.

If you are affected, please follow official advice from NRW (Natural Resources Wales), emergency services and your local authority.

Peter Fox, the Welsh Conservative Member of the Senedd for Monmouth, described the situation in the area as extremely bad.

He said: I personally havent seen it so bad for probably 40 years, certainly in Monmouth since defences were put in place there.

Monmouthshire County Council, which reported a number of road closures, told people to avoid trying to get into town or make unnecessary journeys due to the severity of the flooding and the ongoing operation.

National Rail also told passengers in England and Wales to check before they travel, as some services could be disrupted.

Strong winds also hit north-west Wales and north-west England during Storm Claudia (Mike Egerton/PA) (PA Wire)

The downpours are set to be replaced with a cold snap next week, bringing frost and snow to the UK as Arctic winds cause temperatures to plummet.

Its certainly going to turn much colder over the next couple of days, there will be an eight to 10 degree drop in temperature, you will be struggling to get double figures, Simon Partridge, Met Office meteorologist, told the Independent.

We will probably see our first widespread countrywide frost on Monday morning and the lowest temperatures will be somewhere between -5C and -7C.

On Tuesday, there is a small area of low pressure that is going to bring in a band of rain, sleet and hill snow, he added.

This is likely to hit northern parts of the UK, such as Scotland and parts of the Pennines, he explained.

But as on Wednesday and Thursday, there will be more northerly winds, which could cause snowfall in Scotland, the North Sea coast, the North York Moors and possibly Wales or even Dartmoor.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a cold weather warning for parts of the Midlands and northern England from Monday, and the Environment Agency has warned that flooding will continue throughout the weekend.
Cambridge and Barnet remain level on points in League Two after their goalless draw.

The early stages were a cagey affair before the hosts went close on 29 minutes when James Brophy cut inside and fired an effort which curled wide of the far post.

Barnet ended the first half dominantly, with Jake Eastwood making a good save to push away Idris Kanus shot from distance. A Ben Winterburn corner was nearly flicked in for a Kylian Kouassi own goal.

Eastwood rushed out to deny Danny Collinge in the last minute of the half, before Lee Ndluvus blast was deflected off target. Ryan Glover then headed a Winterburn cross over.

Their pressure continued immediately after the break with Eastwood called on to turn away Adam Seniors shot after he was teed up by Mark Shelton. On 55 minutes Ndluvu darted past his man but fired into the side netting.

A rare Cambridge chance came with a rapid break on 64 minutes, culminating with Adam Mayors shot being stopped by Cieran Slicker, but there would be no breakthrough.
The city of Charlotte, North Carolina, has become the latest Democratic-run city to be targeted by President Donald Trumps anti-immigration offensive.

Federal law enforcement agents were spotted making arrests across the city Saturday as the Department of Homeland Security confirmed the surge of officers for what the administration is calling Operation Charlottes Web.

We are surging DHS law enforcement to Charlotte to ensure Americans are safe and public safety threats are removed, Homeland Security assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement.

The Trump administrations mass deportation operations have seen a boost in Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection officers into major Democratic-led cities with large immigrant populations in recent months, including Chicago, Los Angeles and Portland.

Charlotte is a racially diverse city of more than 900,000 residents, including more than 150,000 who are foreign-born, according to local officials.

Federal law enforcement agents have surged into Charlotte, North Carolina, the latest Democratic-run city targeted by Donald Trumps anti-immigration offensive (Middle East Images/AFP via Getty)

The administrations latest deployment creates unnecessary fear and uncertainty, according to a statement signed by Charlottes Democratic Mayor Vi Lyles, County Commissioner Mark Jerrell and Stephanie Sneed of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg education board.

We want people in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County to know we stand with all residents who simply want to go about their lives, they added.

The administration did not publicly announce plans for the latest blitz, nut Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden confirmed earlier this week that two federal officials had told him that Border Patrol agents would be arriving soon.

Paola Garcia, a spokesperson with Camino  a bilingual nonprofit serving families in Charlotte  said she and her colleagues have observed an increase in Border Patrol and ICE agents pulling people over since Friday.

Basically what we're seeing is that there have been lots of people being pulled over, Garcia said. I even saw a few people being pulled over on the way to work yesterday, and then just from community members seeing an increase in ICE and border patrol agents in the city of Charlotte.

Charlotte is a racially diverse city of more than 900,000 residents, including more than 150,000 people who are foreign-born, according to local officials (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Willy Aceituno, a Honduran-born U.S. citizen, was on his way to work when he saw Border Patrol agents chasing people.

I saw a lot of Latinos running. I wondered why they were running. The thing is, there were a lot of Border Patrol agents chasing them, he said.

Aceituno, a 46-year-old Charlotte resident, said he himself was stopped  twice  by Border Patrol agents. On the second encounter, they forced him out of his vehicle after breaking the car window and threw him to the ground.

I told them, 'I'm an American citizen, he told The Associated Press. They wanted to know where I was born, or they didn't believe I was an American citizen.

He was allowed to go free after showing documents that proved his citizenship.

Willy Aceituno, left, makes a police report with a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department officer after Border Patrol officers broke his window during an enforcement operation November 15 (AP)

North Carolina Rep. Alma S. Adams said she was extremely concerned about the deployment of federal agents to Charlotte two days prior.

Charlottes immigrant community is a proud part of the Queen City, and I will not stand by and watch my constituents be intimidated or harassed, Adams said.

Gregory Bovino, the top Border Patrol official overseeing the Trump administrations boots-on-the-ground operations, responded to Adams in a post on X.

Immigrants rest assured, we have your back like we did in Chicago and Los Angeles, Bovino said. Rep. Adams, perhaps you [and] Gov. STEIN should learn the difference between an illegal alien [and] an immigrant.

Bovino and officers under his command in Chicago  where agents were filmed tackling protesters and filling neighborhoods with tear gas  faced a federal lawsuit from protesters, press groups and faith leaders accusing agents of indiscriminately firing riot weapons into crowds and at close range as volatile scenes emerged from protests against immigration raids.

Officials in California , Illinois and Oregon have accused the federal government of deliberately trying to incite violence to justify law enforcement crackdowns and military deployments.

The Associated Press contributed reporting
Donald Trump has said he will sue the BBC for between $1bn and $5bn over the editing of his speech on Panorama.

The US president confirmed he would be taking legal action against the broadcaster while on Air Force One overnight on Saturday.

"We'll sue them. We'll sue them for anywhere between a billion (792m) and five billion dollars (3.79bn), probably sometime next week," he told reporters.

"We have to do it, they've even admitted that they cheated. Not that they couldn't have not done that. They cheated. They changed the words coming out of my mouth."

Mr Trump then told reporters he would discuss the matter with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer over the weekend, and claimed "the people of the UK are very angry about what happened... because it shows the BBC is fake news".

Separately, Mr Trump told GB News: "I'm not looking to get into lawsuits, but I think I have an obligation to do it.

"This was so egregious. If you don't do it, you don't stop it from happening again with other people."

The Daily Telegraph reported earlier this month that an internal memo raised concerns about the BBC's editing of a speech made by Mr Trump on 6 January 2021, just before a mob rioted at the US Capitol building, on the news programme.

The concerns regard clips spliced together from sections of the president's speech to make it appear he told supporters he was going to walk to the US Capitol with them to "fight like hell" in the documentary Trump: A Second Chance?, which was broadcast by the BBC the week before last year's US election.

Following a backlash, both BBC director-general Tim Davie and BBC News chief executive Deborah Turness resigned from their roles.

'No basis for defamation claim'

On Thursday, the broadcaster officially apologised to the president and added that it was an "error of judgement" and the programme will "not be broadcast again in this form on any BBC platforms".

A spokesperson said that "the BBC sincerely regrets the manner in which the video clip was edited," but they also added that "we strongly disagree there is a basis for a defamation claim".

Earlier this week, Mr Trump's lawyers threatened to sue the BBC for $1bn unless it apologised, retracted the clip, and compensated him.

Legal challenges

But legal experts have said that Mr Trump would face challenges taking the case to court in the UK or the US.

The deadline to bring the case to UK courts, where defamation damages rarely exceed 100,000 ($132,000), has already expired because the documentary aired in October 2024, which is more than one year.

Also because the documentary was not shown in the US, it would be hard to show that Americans thought less of the president because of a programme they could not watch.

Read more from Sky News:

Key findings in 20,000 pages of documents in the Epstein files

Banksy art theft lands burglar with 13-month prison sentence

Newsnight allegations

The BBC has said it was looking into fresh allegations, published in The Telegraph, that its Newsnight show also selectively edited footage of the same speech in a report broadcast in June 2022.

A BBC spokesperson said: "The BBC holds itself to the highest editorial standards. This matter has been brought to our attention and we are now looking into it."
EastEnders character Barry Evans is to make a return alongside Pat Butcher as part of an ongoing dementia storyline involving Nigel Bates.

Barry, played by Shaun Williamson, was killed off more than 20 years ago when his new wife Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks) pushed him from a cliff on January 2 2004.

The character will appear as a vision in the Queen Vic pub, alongside his stepmother Pat (Pam St Clement), as Nigels dementia symptoms intensify.

Shaun Williamson entering the Celebrity Big Brother house in 2017 (Ian West/PA)

Nigel, played by Paul Bradley, returned to the long-running soap after 26 years on December 24 2024 and has been seen dealing with the progressive condition that causes degeneration of the brain.

Williamson, 60, said: It was a complete shock getting the call to go back to Albert Square, but so exciting!

I have to admit to a few nerves (loads!) when I walked back onto the set of The Queen Victoria, but it was so great to work with old friends and colleagues on such a brilliant episode.

Just goes to show, you never know whats around the corner!

Years ago Barry had a feud with his stepmother Pat, who he refused to forgive following her affair with Frank Butcher, but the two will put aside their differences to help Nigel in his time of need in a special episode transmitting next month.

Ben Wadey, EastEnders executive producer said: Im delighted to welcome Shaun Williamson back to EastEnders for Nigels special episode.

Barry Evans was renowned for being one of Walfords unluckiest residents, most notably for his choice of shoes, and so it was a privilege to welcome him back alongside Pat for these special scenes in The Vic.

Paul Bradley and Pam St Clement (BBC/Jack Barns/Kieron McCarron/PA)

Barry, a hapless minicab boss, first appeared on the soap on December 27 1994 and had a spate of bad luck, which started with his first wife Natalie (Lucy Speed) leaving him amid an affair with her friends boyfriend, and ended with his second wife murdering him.

Feisty matriarch Pat, known for her bright outfits and eccentric earrings, was often seen arguing with Queen Vic landlord Peggy Mitchell (Barbara Windsor).

The character, who became Pat Evans after marrying Barrys father in 1996, died of cancer on New Years Day in 2012 but made a return to Albert Square in May 2016 as a figment of Peggys imagination on the night of her death.

EastEnders has been working with Dementia UK on Nigels young onset dementia storyline.

The charity said the condition is considered young onset when symptoms, including memory loss and personality changes, develop under the age of 65.
Marina Lacerda during a news conference in Washington DC on 3 September 2025. Photograph: Jose Luis Magana/AP

When Marina Lacerda woke on Wednesday to learn that thousands of documents about Jeffrey Epstein had been released by House Republicans, she braced herself for a spate of new revelations.

Before deciding to waive her anonymity in September, Lacerda was known for years as Minor Victim-1  unknown, unheard, another teenager groomed and abused by the paedophile financier.

What did not surprise the 37-year-old was to see the scandal once again dismissed as a hoax by Donald Trump, after it was revealed in an email sent by Epstein which suggested he believed Trump was aware of his conduct.

Donald Trump, thank you so much for calling us a hoax, because now youve empowered us and now youve made people listen to us even more. It actually helped us out, Lacerda said as she urged the president to release the rest of the Epstein files.

We care about having transparency and having the Epstein files out and also bringing all the men to justice  Its a mess right now, all because of these files that [Trumps] holding back and he has, nothing to do with it. Why not let them out?  Its making him really look bad.

Lacerda, who was a key witness in the 2019 indictment against Epstein, spoke publicly for the first time outside the US Capitol in September to encourage other survivors of abuse to come forward.

She was just 14 years old when she was recruited in 2002 to give Epstein massages at his palatial townhouse in New York. At the time, she was a vulnerable teenager who had suffered sexual and physical abuse and was working to support her family who had immigrated to New York from Brazil.

It was a very, very, very sad time in my life, Lacerda said in an interview with the Guardian.

The friend who introduced her to Epstein told her she would earn $300 for taking off her blouse and giving him a half-hour massage. But Lacerdas first encounter with the disgraced financier left her distraught.

It was absolutely different than what I expected. When I got there, I did take off my blouse and he wanted to touch me and I said no to him. He respected it but then he started to touch himself, she recalled.

Then he asked us to remove our bras and I was very embarrassed. I felt that I was in a place that I couldnt go anywhere  So I got very scared and I did what the other girl did and I took off my shirt and he touched himself until he climaxed. Afterwards he handed her money. He told her that he would like to see me again.

The abuse quickly escalated with Epstein using Lacerdas financial and immigration troubles against her. Lacerda said she became frightened of the control he wielded over her and also those in positions of power.

She recalled his office being full of photographs of Donald Trump, Bill Clinton and the former prince Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. She would also hear him boasting about receiving massages over the phone.

Lacerda said: He always told me that he owned the government, he owned the banks, he owned everything and he was in power. He had power over everybody. And that scared us, scared me and the other victims. He abused me from the age of 14, and he raped me until 17, almost 18 years old, and he took full advantage of it. He had threatened me in different ways, and not directly, but always told me: Be careful who you talk to, because if you talk too much, things can happen.

Lacerda was also coerced into recruiting other girls by Epstein who threatened that he would otherwise not help her with her immigration papers. The abuse only stopped when Lacerda turned 17 and began wearing makeup.

He told me that I was no longer fun and I was getting old for him and that I was just going to have to like kind of die out, she said.

Years later in 2008, FBI agents came knocking at Lacerdas door to ask questions about Epstein. In shock, she called Epstein, who provided her with a lawyer. But she did not end up speaking to a grand jury because Epstein signed a controversial plea deal.

FBI agents arrived at her doorstep for a second time in 2019 after New York prosecutors opened a case against Epstein. The evidence Lacerda provided has been described as being crucial in building a case against Epstein, who died in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges.

Lacerda is proud of her contribution to the case but still grapples with feelings of shame. Im still trying to understand and grasp the fact that it is not my fault and that the abuse would have continued even if I went on the stand in 2008 or not, she said. I only started to realise that I was a victim really after I broke my silence.

She was inspired to speak publicly after attending the memorial of Virginia Giuffre, who had repeatedly named Epstein, his associate Ghislaine Maxwell and Mountbatten-Windsor as her abusers, before killing herself in April.

Related: Epstein emails: key takeaways from 20,000 pages of newly released files

Lacerda said: We continue this journey for her. She has done so much speaking-wise and using her voice and advocating and doing so much, that it is our job now to continue that throne that she has built for us.

She pointed out that Mountbatten-Windsor was stripped of his royal titles after the publication of Giuffres posthumous memoir. The former prince has always denied claims he had sex with Giuffre when she was 17. Lacerda said she would continue speaking out and fighting for the release of the Epstein files so others could be held accountable.

Trump has piled pressure on congressional Republicans to oppose the full release of the justice departments files related to Epstein, before a crucial House vote on the matter next week.

Lacerda is frustrated that the issue has become a political battleground with Republicans and Democrats blaming each other for the delays in releasing the files. We dont care whose fault it is. We just want these Epstein files to get released to the public and to us because it will bring us closure. Because a lot of us have trauma.
Stacey Plaskett on Capitol Hill on 9 February 2023. Photograph: Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters

Newly released documents from Jeffrey Epsteins estate show the convicted sex offender appeared to be texting with a member of Congress during a 2019 House hearing with Michael Cohen, Donald Trumps former fixer and personal attorney, and that those messages may have influenced the lawmakers questioning.

The documents provided to Congress this week include transcripts suggesting Epstein was in direct contact with the lawmaker as the hearing unfolded, the Washington Post reports.

Although the transcripts do not name the lawmaker Epstein was texting during the February 2019 hearing, an analysis by the Post suggests it was Stacey Plaskett, the US Virgin Islands non-voting Democratic delegate. By matching the timestamps of the messages with video of the hearing, the analysis concluded that Plaskett was the member of Congress in contact with Epstein.

At the time, Cohen was appearing before the House oversight committee to testify against Trump, accusing him of racism, financial fraud and directing hush-money payments to conceal his extramarital affairs. Trump denied all of these allegations.

Related: Bondi announces investigation into Epstein ties to Trumps Democratic adversaries

Cohen brought up RONA - keeper of the secrets, Epstein texted the person, referring to former Trump executive assistant Rhona Graff, but misspelling her name.

RONA?? the person responded. Quick Im up next is that an acronym, the person added, suggesting they would question Cohen soon.

Plasketts office did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the Guardian. Her chief of staff told the Post that she was not in a position to confirm or not whether the representative had been texting with Epstein during the hearing.

When Plaskett questioned Cohen during the hearing, she asked about Trump associates that he had mentioned previously and whether there were other people that we should be meeting with?

So Allen Weisselberg is the chief financial officer in the Trump Organization, Cohen replied.

Youve got to quickly give us as many names as you can so we can get to them, Plaskett jumped in to say. She is Ms Rhona, what is Ms Rhonas  

Rhona Graff is the  Mr Trumps executive assistant  She was  her office is directly next to his, and shes involved in a lot that went on, Cohen replied.

This interaction is part of the more than 20,000 pages released Wednesday that reignited a long-running scandal over Epsteins relationship with the rich and powerful. Democratic lawmakers said the messages, along with three newly disclosed emails, suggest Trump may have known more about Epsteins activities than he has suggested in public.

In another instance on the day of the hearing, Epstein texted the person: Are you chewing. One minute before, a live television feed of the hearing had cut to Plaskett, as she appeared to be chewing.

Not any more, the person replied to Epstein. Chewing interior of my mouth. Bad habit from middle school.

Plaskett was the first non-voting delegate to the House to serve as an impeachment manager during Trumps impeachment trial in the Senate in 2021 for inciting the January 6 attack on the US Capitol. She represents the US Virgin Islands, a territory that does not have a vote in Congress.
November 15, 2025: Since Russia invaded in 2022, Ukrainian weapons manufacturers have grown nearly 400 percent. Ukraine will have produced 4.5 million drones by the end of 2025. In 2026 that is expected to be 20 million drones.

Its more than the drones themselves. Ukraine has developed novel ways of using larger drones to attack key Russian industrial targets that are thousands of kilometers from the Ukrainian border. There are also applications of drone technology to ground combat. Ukrainian infantry are increasingly augmented with combat robots to carry out high risk attacks. In more than one instance, defending Russian soldiers surrendered to the robots.

These technologies are also being used in long range missiles, driverless ground vehicles to carry supplies in the combat zone and even bring back wounded soldiers. There is going to be wider use of ground combat robots and more effective ones using AI/Artificial Intelligence augmented software.

Ukrainian manufacturers also produce artillery, rocket launchers and most other types of weapons and military equipment. For over a century Ukraine has been a major producer of weapons, including aircraft and missiles. When Ukraine became independent from the Soviet Union in 1991, they had nuclear weapons and missiles to carry them. A 1994 agreement between Ukraine, Russia, Britain and the United States had Ukraine getting rid of its nuclear weapons in return for guarantees from Russia that they would never attack Ukraine and if they did Britain and the Americans were obliged to aid Ukraine in resisting the attack. This experience complicates any future Russian offers to settle the Ukraine war via a treaty. In short, Russia cannot be trusted. Vladimir Putin did not take control of Russia until 1999 and apparently feels he is not responsible for observing the 1994 agreement.

Putin has more serious problems with Ukraine. While Russia is suffering from over three years of increasingly stringent economic sanctions, the Ukrainian economy is rapidly growing. Ukrainian production of military equipment is rapidly expanding and attracting investments from NATO countries, especially the United States. Ukraine currently produces over 70 percent of the weapons it uses to fight the Russians. Since these weapons have proven themselves in combat, they are attractive choices for other nations looking for innovative and affordable weapons.

There are more than 500 defense related companies in Ukraine and most are looking for export customers or coproduction deals where other nations produce Ukrainian designed weapons. Ukraine regularly demonstrates that they can rapidly develop, produce and get into combat new systems. Any problems that develop, the Ukrainian manufacturer will quickly fix. Ukraine has become the gold standard for defense production and that has brought in over $100 billion in foreign investment.

By invading Ukraine, Russia has created a neighbor that became militarily and economically stronger and free to trade with NATO nations while Russia is crippled by economic sanctions.
Anne Fisher said Jeffrey Epstein told her: I can introduce you to the Royal family - ITV News

A victim of Jeffrey Epstein has claimed that he tried to lure her to dinner with Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.

Ann Fisher said Epstein, the late financier and convicted paedophile, groped her in his Upper East Side mansion after she went to what she believed was a business meeting with him in 2001.

Before the assault, she claimed that they had conversed for hours, and he had invited her to a dinner in New York with a member of the British Royal family, who she later assumed was the former Duke of York.

Andrew, who had his titles stripped by the King last month, was in New York that October for a three-day visit, according to official records.

While the pair did not meet, Ms Fisher said that Epstein told her she would fit in at dinner because she was half-English and resembled Diana, the late Princess of Wales.

Ms Fisher said she was sexually assaulted by Epstein in May 2001, saying he afterwards offered her a cheque  which she refused.

Epsteins assistants then repeatedly called her on her mobile, work and home phone to pester her to attend the dinner, she said.

She told ITV News: When I was there he was like: Oh, you should come to a dinner, youre English and I can introduce you to the Royal family. And I was like: Okay. But then after he assaulted me I didnt want anything to do with it.

Jeffrey Epsteins former townhouse near Central Park in Manhattan - Dan Callister

She said Epstein had told her you look like Princess Di and added: Later, I learnt that [the then] Prince Andrew had a thing for Princess Di, so I kind of put it together.

I called my boyfriend at the time, sobbing and hysterical, she said.

While Ms Fisher never met Andrew, she did meet Sarh Ferguson, his ex-wife, at a Rolling Stones concert by coincidence.

The reputation of Ms Ferguson, the former Duchess, has also been damaged by the Epstein association that brought down the House of York.

She was dropped by a number of charities that she had been patron of for years, including The Teenage Cancer Trust, after an email came to light in which she apologised to the paedophile for publicly disowning him.

The organisations  including the British Heart Foundation  announced their decision to remove the former duchess, 65, as patron in September following reports that she described Epstein as a supreme friend in 2011 after he was convicted of procuring a child for prostitution.

Serious lapses of judgment

Meanwhile, last month the King removed his younger brothers titles in full and announced that he had surrendered the lease on Royal Lodge after the disclosure that Andrew had remained in touch with Epstein longer than he had admitted, and by doing so had misled the public.

Ms Fisher said that her assault by Epstein took place about a month after the period when the late Virginia Giuffre claimed she was raped and abused by Andrew, in 2001.

Ms Giuffre, who took her own life in April, claimed she had three encounters with Andrew, starting when she was 17 and he was 41, and accused him of being entitled  as if he believed having sex with me was his birthright.

While the former prince continued to deny allegations made against him, a royal source said there had been serious lapses of judgment which forced the King to act in removing his titles.

A civil claim brought by Ms Giuffre in the US was settled out of court in 2022 with no admission of guilt.

The 2001 photograph shows Andrew alongside Virginia Giuffre, then 17, and Ghislaine Maxwell

Meanwhile, the former Duke of York has been summoned to appear before Congress, which is investigating abuse claims against him.

Democratic members of the House oversight committee have said they believed Andrew may also have crucial information about co-conspirators and enablers of Epsteins crimes.

Robert Garcia, the most senior Democratic member of the committee, said: Rich and powerful men have evaded justice for far too long.

Now, former Prince Andrew has the opportunity to come clean and provide justice for the survivors.

Representatives of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor have been approached for comment.
How to fight in hell: Ukraine veterans say Nato not ready for war with Russia

Ukrainian intelligence is warning that a Russian Lancet drone is prowling the sky, loitering above Kramatorsk, like a heron poised over a fish pond, ready to strike.

A laptop shows multiscreen images of medics racing through shredded forest, Russian soldiers in Ukrainian sights, bunkers being blown up  everyday terror.

This is the future of war  and the West isnt ready for what may be coming in an open conflict with Russia: mass casualties and a transformation of the battle beyond anything that Natos armies are training for.

The laptop feed is for Rebekah Maciorowski, an American volunteer paramedic who runs the medical operations, evacuation and training for an entire battalion of men and women on Ukraines eastern front, under its 3rd Brigade. In a conventional war, she would be a major. In this conflict? She has no idea what her rank is and cares even less.

But the revelations from this frontline soldier, one who has the rare claim to have shot down an incoming Russian drone attacking her patients, are chilling.

You have had encounters with Nato training teams. Youve talked to Nato when youve been back in Europe. Do you think that theyre ready for the next war with Russia? The Independent asks her.

No. No, Im honestly a little bit terrified, she replies  after more than 40 months at war here.

She goes on to explain: If you were to talk to Nato military officials, they would reassure you that everything is under control, theyre well equipped, theyre well prepared. But I dont think anyone can be prepared for a conflict like this. I dont think anyone can.

And whats concerning to me is, while theyre offering training [in Europe for Ukrainians], I think it would do them well to also take some information and training from the Ukrainians.

Maciorowski has undergone training with Nato forces in the last year and says what they taught was relevant to Afghanistan and Iraq  not Ukraine.

When I went to train with Nato, the factor of drones was not really filtered in. It was very much the tactics that were learnt in the previous war. And these tactics now do not apply because youre not making a linear assault.

Everything has changed with drones. And I dont think it was factored in, at least not in this training, she says in her secret medical evacuation headquarters.

US medic Maciorowski and her team tend to injured Ukrainian soldiers in the Donetsk region (The Independent)

Her teams evacuate wounded soldiers using quad bikes because armoured ambulances are now death traps, while quads can race between forests and dugouts trying to avoid drones.

But her team takes heavy losses. Over the last week, a top medic, callsign Viking, was killed on a rescue mission east of Slaviansk. A few weeks before that, another driver was blown up by a drone.

I dont see other Europeans coping with this, she says.

Natos leaders and intelligence agencies agree that Europe, especially, is already involved in a hybrid war with Russia. This includes propaganda to undermine democracy, cyber attacks, sabotage and assassinations.

Lately, it has included probing attacks inside Poland and Estonia by Russian aircraft and continuous challenges at sea.

An outright war may never happen. It may also be inevitable.

Vladimir Putin has made it clear he wants to force the Baltic states back under Russian rule and has designs on all of eastern Europe in countries once dominated by Moscow.

Ukrainians and Georgians know that when he says such things, he invades.

If it came to a war, Russia has experience in modern combat that only Ukraine shares.

An officer operating in Pokrovsk, where Ukraine says Russia is concentrating 150,000 men on trying to break through Ukrainian lines, describes the fighting there as hell. It is in the heat of this inferno that a new approach is being forged.

We are changing the structure of the war on the go, says Oleksandr Yabchanka, commander of a drone unit in the Da Vinci Wolves, part of the 59th Brigade.

There is bad news for Ukraine and Europe. Russia is adapting just like us. It is a colossal threat and very underestimated in Europe.

A spokesperson for the British-led programme Operation Interflex said that 61,000 Ukrainian soldiers had been trained for putting them in the strongest possible position as they resist ongoing Russian attacks.

He said that Ukrainian military experts and drone operators had served as consultants to train soldiers going to war and that 91 per cent of Ukrainian soldiers who completed Natos basic training feel more confident of their survivability at the end of the training.

However, a recent study by Jack Watling at the Royal United Services Institute (Rusi) warns that Nato needs to catch up with understanding that war has changed.

The advent of small, deadly drones, often flown with first-person vision (FPV), frequently guided by fibre-optic cables, and capable of pinpoint accuracy far beyond what were considered front lines, has transformed conflict.

Oleksandr Yabchanka, commander of a drone unit in the Da Vinci Wolves, part of the 59th Brigade, says Russia is underestimated in Europe (Sam Kiley/The Independent)

Nato doctrine focuses on what it calls combined arms manoeuvre. This means an emphasis on the concentration of aircraft, armour, infantry and artillery with the aim to surprise and overwhelm an enemy.

That doesnt work any more.

Dr Watling explains that pervasive networks and sensors have made the ability to achieve surprise difficult. Known as battlefield transparency, the modern surveillance of battlefields means that an unexpected attack is almost impossible.

On top of that, the ubiquity of precision weapons makes concentrated forces vulnerable to rapid attrition.

Armoured vehicles, engineering equipment, electronics warfare kit  it can all be spotted and picked off with ease, and over long distances.

This means that the front lines are wide, deep, shattered and almost empty of infantry.

Natos method is to take on mass attacks by the near peer forces of Russia. But Russias tactics no longer concentrate on mass  the weight of numbers in men and arms used against Ukraine three years ago.

Now, Ukrainian forces are being attacked with long-range glide bombs. Russian drones hunt out Kyivs UAV teams in their bunkers and force them away from their forward lines. And above all, the lines of logistics are pounded with terrifying accuracy.

Russian soldiers hide in dugouts, trying to avoid drones, near Zaporizhzhia, southern Ukraine (The Independent)

As a result, small groups of two or four Russians covertly sneak into locations on the front lines to try to hold bunkers and dugouts while Ukrainian drones patrol overhead.

The soldiers use blankets designed to muffle their thermal images, sometimes held above them on poles, to get into locations where they may be embedded for weeks or months.

Ukrainian troops do the same. And now that their lines of communication have been cut, they rely entirely on supplies of food and ammunition, as well as medical supplies from drones in the air or on the ground.

In Afghanistan, 99.2 per cent of British army casualties who were evacuated to the main Helmand hospital at Camp Bastion survived  mostly because they were taken there from the front lines within the first golden hour after injury.

In any war with Russia, it could be days or weeks before a severely wounded Nato soldier could be evacuated. And the numbers injured in a single incident or a drone blast are likely to be high.

The wounds, the injuries, are catastrophic, explains Maciorowski. And theyre multiplying because the radius of impact for a drone that drops a grenade or explosive device is massive.

So you can have an entire group thats taken out, all of them injured in one drop. Were not seeing that hand-to-hand combat so much now.

Now were looking at prolonged field care; guys who are unable to evacuate and giving medical advice over a radio, making sure that when guys come to the unit, every soldier is trained like a medic because we dont have enough medics, and theres no guarantee that they can get to the wounded soldier in time.

So every soldier needs to be a highly trained medic to treat himself and others around him.

Medics of Da Vinci Wolves Battalion treat Ukrainian soldiers injured during fighting near Pokrovsk in August (AP)

Natos regular armed forces are rarely, if ever, trained how to treat themselves for long periods with antibiotics and intravenous drips.

And, above all, they are unprepared for the potential mass casualties that Nato forces would face in a conflict with Russia.

We almost cant comprehend the scale of those losses, says Ed Arnold, a former British Army officer who is now with Rusi.

Gangrene among Ukrainian soldiers is commonplace because they are stuck on the front lines for so long. Britains biggest mobile field hospital has a capacity of only 80 general beds and 10 for intensive care.

In a Ukraine-type war where the UK, and Nato, can expect hundreds of casualties every day, the capacity to cope is just not there.

We should have Ukrainians training [British officers] at Sandhurst (Royal Military Academy) at the moment, adds Arnold.

There should be a resident Ukrainian platoon, which regularly rotates, giving us the actual download on whats going on.
Four dead and five injured after boat believed to be carrying migrants capsizes off San Diego coast

Four people died and five were injured after a small boat capsized off the coast of San Diego early Saturday.

Border patrol officers discovered a wooden skiff in the surf off Imperial Beach, where six people were discovered just before midnight. One person was pronounced dead and another person was rescued after being found under the boat.

Authorities also received a report of someone in the water near Imperial Beach Pier, where the Coast Guard discovered three people in the ocean, all dead.

The boat was believed to be carrying immigrants into the United States. Their identities have not been released.

Footage from the scene showed crews searching for survivors in the dark. Several survivors were taken to the hospital.

Four people died and five are injured after a small boat believed to be carrying immigrants capsized off the coast of San Diego early Saturday (AP)

Several of the survivors claimed Mexican nationality, while others remained unidentified, according to Coast Guard officials. One person was turned over to the Department of Homeland Security.

Our crews and partner agencies responded immediately, but this case demonstrates the severe risks posed to aliens attempting to enter the United States by sea in unstable vessels, said Coast Guard Capt. Robert Tucker, Sector San Diego commander.

The San Diego County Sheriffs Office also responded to the incident, along with the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.

We have Coast Guard still out there, you know, looking out there in the water to see if there are any other bodies out there, Fire chief John French told Fox5 San Diego from the scene.

One witness told Sideo TV that he was fishing on the Imperial Beach pier when he saw one of the victims unresponsive in the water.

We were out here, like, chilling with our friends  me and my brother and his two other friends, he said. We noticed that the helicopter was circling around us.

Several migrant vessels have capsized off the California coast in recent years as the growing number of people who died while attempting to cross borders has set records five years in a row.

In May, at least three people died when a vessel flipped off the coast about 35 miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border.

In 2023, eight people were killed when two migrant smuggling boats approached a San Diego beach in heavy fog and one of them capsized in the surf, marking the deadliest maritime smuggling incidents in waters off the U.S. coast.

Worldwide, nearly 9,000 people died last year attempting to cross borders, according to the United Nations agency for migration. The death toll set a record for the fifth year in a row.

Additional reporting by the Associated Press
The RNLI is searching for the crew member alongside the Irish Coast Guard and others (PA Archive)

A significant multi-agency search operation is currently underway off the northwest coast of Ireland for a missing UK Navy crew member.

The person was last seen late on Friday, around 10.30pm.

A distress call was made to the Irish Coast Guard early on Saturday morning. Irelands Department of Transport confirmed the extensive search effort.

The Irish Coast Guards Marine Rescue Co-ordination Centre in Malin Head received a distress alert from a UK Naval support vessel just before 9am this morning, a statement issued on Saturday read.

The alert was for a missing crew member on board, last seen at approximately 10.30pm last night.

The vessel was situated north of Tory Island when the alarm was raised.

Malin Head Coast Guard is coordinating the search for the missing crew member in the waters between Tory Island, Co Donegal, and Eagle Island, Co Mayo.

The Irish Coast Guard, the Irish Air Corps, the RNLI, the naval vessel and others are involved in the search.

Airborne assets include the Coast Guards fixed-wing plane Rescue 120F from Shannon airport, Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 118 from Sligo, and the Irish Air Corps plane, CASA 284.

At sea, the UK Naval support vessel is participating alongside three RNLI all-weather lifeboats from Ballyglass, Arranmore Island, and Lough Swilly, with other vessels also assisting.

Other vessels of opportunity are also involved in the search, the statement said.
A train crew member seriously injured while shielding passengers during the Huntingdon stabbings has been discharged from hospital, according to the British Transport Police.

Samir Zitouni, 48, was left fighting for his life after suffering multiple injuries during the major incident on board the London North Eastern Railway (LNER) train from Doncaster to London on 1 November.

He was rushed to hospital where he remained until Saturday. In a statement, his family thanked the public for an outpouring of support, but said Mr Zitouni had a significant recovery ahead.

They said: We are so grateful for the outpouring of support from the public, and very touched by all the kind words about Sams brave actions on the night of the attack.

While we are really happy to have him home, he still has a significant recovery ahead and we would now like to be left in privacy to care for him as a family.

Samir Zitouni was among 11 patients treated in hospital (LNER/PA) (PA Media)

Mr Zitouni has been hailed as a hero after potentially saving multiple lives on board the train. LNER said he has worked for the firm for more than 20 years as a customer experience host, which largely involves providing onboard catering.

He was among 11 patients treated in hospital for injuries sustained during the attack.

A spokesperson for the British Transport Police said: A 48-year-old member of LNER rail staff has been discharged from hospital today (15 November) following the major incident at Huntingdon on 1 November.

Samir Zitouni had been in a critical condition having suffered multiple injuries, and thanks to the efforts of NHS medical staff hes been able to be discharged from hospital today to continue his recovery at home.

Anthony Williams, the suspect in the stabbing, has been remanded in custody (X)

David Horne, managing director for LNER previously paid tribute to Mr Zitouni, saying he did not hesitate to protect passengers during a moment of crisis.

He said: In a moment of crisis, Sam did not hesitate as he stepped forward to protect those around him. His actions were incredibly brave, and we are so proud of him, and of all our colleagues who acted with such courage that evening.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with Sam and his family. We will continue to support them and wish him a full and speedy recovery.

Police have charged Anthony Williams, 32, with ten counts of attempted murder over the incident. He was remanded into custody at Peterborough Magistrates Court on 3 November and is set to appear at Cambridge Crown Court on 1 December.
The decision to rip up plans for the Budget has left Keir Starmer even further weakened and more likely to face an imminent bid to oust him, Labour MPs have claimed.

Ministers and backbenchers reacted with despair to news that plans to hike income tax had been abandoned, claiming that is showed nobody is in charge of the government.

The Independent has been told that supporters of health secretary Wes Streeting still want him to replace Sir Keir in a coronation to get the Labour government back on track. One MP said the U-turn made a coup more likely while a minister described the PMs position as weakened.

It is being claimed that Downing Street overruled the Treasury over the planned income tax rise in a bid to buy Sir Keir time and see off an attempted coup.

But the move may have backfired again, with one senior minister complaining: It has just added to the sense of directionlessness. Another minister said: It feels like nobody is in charge any more.

Morgan McSweeney (Getty)

Meanwhile, one minister despondently suggested that the gilt markets are now in charge of the government.

The decision on income tax was leaked to the Financial Times in the wake of a terrible week for Downing Street, where sources briefed that Sir Keir was prepared to fight an attempted plot to replace him by Mr Streeting.

Economists have warned that what appears to be a political decision will mean that the government will not be able to build up a sufficient buffer to protect the UK from more economic shocks, leaving it even more exposed.

Instead, the government appears to be preparing to use a basket of smaller taxes, such as on gambling firms, banks and property worth 2m or more, to fill an estimated 20bn spending black hole.

The chancellor will also reportedly freeze thresholds for an extra two years and is considering a new levy on high-value properties in the measures to be announced on 26 November.

Mr Streeting has denied plotting to replace the prime minister, but the briefing  blamed on the controversial chief of staff Morgan McSweeney, which the prime minister denied  has brought forward the decision on whether to oust Sir Keir, sources have said.

Health secretary Wes Streeting (PA Wire)

One senior Labour figure said: There are MPs now ready to move immediately after the Budget.

Another source added: Wes does not want to be seen as the one wielding the knife, but he wants a coronation.

The calculation being made by some MPs is that if Sir Keir holds on until the May devolved elections in Scotland and Wales, and council elections in England, then other rivals may have positioned themselves for a leadership bid.

This could include Manchester mayor Andy Burnham getting a seat in parliament and former deputy prime minister Angela Rayner having sufficient time to recover from the tax scandal that forced her to quit.

One veteran Labour MP said Sir Keirs leadership was dead well before this U-turn. They just didnt realise it. They added: Now they do, I really fear what they will do to hang on. I fear it will do irreparable damage.

This is what the crisis of democracy looks like. To be honest, whoever was in power would have faced it. But clearly, some political projects will face the turbulence better than others. This one is sinking without trace with all hands aboard.

Clearly, Wes is busy pushing colleagues out of the way and heading for the lifeboat. Alas, hell find it, too, is on fire and holed.

Meanwhile, allies of new deputy leader Lucy Powell, who was elected to replace Ms Rayner on an anti-Starmer ticket, is proving to be a real handful for Downing Street.

They point to the fact that the decision on income tax came just days after she made an intervention warning against the party breaking its manifesto promise and increasing it or VAT or employees national insurance contributions.

However, the move has also been seen as a sign that the beleaguered chief of staff Morgan McSweeney still wields power despite many MPs demanding his resignation.

Mr McSweeney and welfare secretary Pat McFadden are said to have led the internal opposition to the income tax hike, warning about the potential breach of trust with voters  even with a drop in national insurance in a two up, two down policy to raise 6bn.

Sir Keir claimed he had been assured that nobody in Downing Street was responsible for the briefing against Mr Streeting. But this has led to claims from MPs that he is too weak to sack Mr McSweeney.

One MP said: If he cant sack McSweeney, then he clearly has lost control.
Warning: Some readers may find the content of this article distressing

They kept hitting me in the stomach, and when I tried to breathe, I started to choke on the blood. My cellmates shouted for help, saying they were killing us, but the officers said they just wanted to make us suffer.

The harrowing testimony of Daniel B* is among dozens collected by human rights groups since the 252 Venezuelan migrants were repatriated from one of El Salvadors most notorious prisons in July this year.

Five months earlier, they had been deported there from the US as part of Donald Trumps much-publicised migration crackdown.

El Salvadors maximum security Centro de Confinamiento del Terrorismo (CECOT) has become emblematic of strongman president Nayib Bukeles brutal crackdown on organised crime in recent years. Bukele boasts of the project, sharing curated images of guards hauling shaven prisoners through the compound as evidence of his triumph over the gangs.

But Bukeles prison goes beyond taking El Salvadors most dangerous off the streets, monitoring groups warn. CECOT has been branded a black hole of human rights amid reports of overcrowding, arbitrary beatings and the denial of any contact with the outside world.

Prisoners from the United States were sent to El Salvador in March and detained at the notorious CECOT prison (El Salvadors presidency press office)

Prisoners are sent to CECOT with the expectation that they will never leave.

A rare insight into this bleak reality came when Human Rights Watch (HRW) spoke to many of those released back to Venezuela.

Its report, published this week, claimed that while inside the prison, detainees were subjected to sexual violence; beaten for requesting medical treatment; held in incommunicado detention; and given water for bathing and drinking containing vermin and worms.

CECOT was built in 2023 against the backdrop of Bukeles State of Exception, a legal framework that allowed the president to suspend certain constitutional rights as part of a broader campaign against gang violence.

Decades of lawlessness in El Salvador forced an exodus of people north, often towards the United States. Politicians offered few solutions. That was until former advertising executive Bukele cracked down on the gang, and the homicide rate fell fast.

International observers, including Freedom House and Amnesty International, warn that Bukeles policies have seen thousands of arbitrary detentions, the use of torture in detention centres, and hundreds of deaths under state custody.

A third of those detained under the State of Exception are estimated to be innocent, according to the Socorro Juridico Humanitario rights group.

The HRW report featured testimonies of Venezuelans deported to El Salvador from the United States in March and April. It includes harrowing accounts of alleged systematic abuse in custody over the following four months.

Gonzalo Y* said that when they landed in El Salvador, they were taken off the plane and told to kneel with their heads down. When he tried to explain that he had a spinal condition affecting his mobility, he said he was struck in the neck with a baton. When they arrived at the prison, they were told to kneel again so that they could be shaved.

Prisoners are crammed into tiny cells and entirely exposed in Tecoluca (Reuters)

One of the officers hit me on the legs with a baton, and I fell to the ground on my knees. Another inmate said the prisoner director told them, You have arrived in hell.

The testimonies went on to corroborate past reports about the gruelling conditions inside the prison. Inmates are reportedly confined to cells for all but 30 minutes a day, forbidden from going outside, and made to sleep on steel beds without mattresses.

The conditions were horrific, said Julian G*, a 29-year-old athlete: There was mould, the floor was black and sticky, the toilets were filthy, it smelled of urine, and the water we had in the tanks  used both for bathing and for drinking  was yellow and had worms.

Another detainee said they were never given a change of clothes. They said they were given soap once a week, but never enough to clean everything.

Every former detainee, they said, reported serious physical and psychological abuse on a near-daily basis.

Three told the investigating rights groups that they had been subjected to sexual violence. One alleged four guards had sexually abused him and forced him to perform oral sex on one of them.

Most interviewees told HRW that medical staff at the prison provided little to no care. Thirty-seven of the 40 former detainees said they fell ill during their time at CECOT.

Some 252 Venezuelans were repatriated from El Salvador as part of a prisoner exchange on 18 July (Getty)

Former detainees also spoke of the psychological trauma that life in the prison had brought.

Flavio T* said that the hardest part of detention was that the guards told us we would never get out of there, that our families had given us up for dead.

Former detainees described a short-lived revolt against the guards in the form of a hunger strike. In May, inmates stopped eating for three days in the hopes of pressuring guards to stop the beatings.

On the first day, some also organised a blood strike, cutting themselves with a sharpened piece of aluminium found in a water tank and using the blood to write we are migrants, not terrorists on a bed sheet to be raised as a banner.

They said a government official promised there would be no more beatings, but they continued.

The detainees were finally released from CECOT prison in July. Two or three days before they left, they said guards brought in mattresses and dentists, cleaning them up for the worlds cameras.

Abigail Jackson, White House spokesperson, told The Independent: President Trump is committed to keeping his promises to the American people by removing dangerous criminal and terrorist illegal aliens who pose a threat to the American public. The mainstream media should spend their time and energy amplifying the stories of Angel Parents, whose innocent American children have tragically been murdered by vicious illegal aliens that President Trump is removing from the country.

*Pseudonyms in HRW report
Mack Hansen claimed a first-half hat-trick to set Ireland on course for a record 46-19 win over his native Australia in Dublin.

Canberra-born Hansen, who started at full-back for the first time at Test level, celebrated his return from a foot injury by crossing three times in the opening 28 minutes to delight a capacity Aviva Stadium crowd.

Second-half scores from Caelan Doris, Ryan Baird and Robbie Henshaw ensured head coach Andy Farrell again came out on top against former Ireland boss Joe Schmidt.

Australia head coach Joe Schmidt (right) with Ireland head coach Andy Farrell (Brian Lawless/PA)

Australia trailed by just five points at the break following converted tries from Len Ikitau and Fraser McReight and claimed a late consolation through Billy Pollard.

But Ireland were deserved winners ahead of completing their autumn campaign at home to world champions South Africa next weekend.

Fly-half Sam Prendergast kicked seven points, including a drop goal, for the dominant hosts, before his replacement Jack Crowley slotted a further nine.

Farrell led the British and Irish Lions to a 2-1 series victory over Schmidts Wallabies in the summer following Irelands 22-19 victory over the same opponents last November.

His side  showing nine personnel changes from last weekends disjointed 41-10 success over Japan  were rewarded for a rapid start on a soggy Saturday evening.

Hansen crossed twice in the opening 11 minutes, diving under the posts after being teed up by Stuart McCloskey following a quick-tap penalty before collecting a Prendergast pass to register a carbon-copy effort.

Irelands Mack Hansen scores a try (Brian Lawless/PA)

Australia, who suffered a shock defeat to Italy last weekend and had lost five of their previous six Tests, responded when centre Ikitau beat Prendergast to barrel over.

Hansen, whose mother hails from Cork, then further punished his homeland, powering across the line wide on the right after Prendergasts crossfield kick was spilled backwards by Tommy OBrien.

Yet the Wallabies were only 19-14 behind at the interval as flanker McReight crashed over in the final play of the half, with fly-half James OConnor adding his second conversion.

Ireland had struggled to set pulses racing with their performances this month and would have been eager to secure greater control of the scoreboard.

After hooker Dan Sheehan was held up on the line, Prendergast nailed a drop goal from distance before providing a sumptuous crossfield kick assist for OBrien, only for the score to be disallowed for a knock on in the build-up.

Crowley  on in place of the impressive Prendergast  slotted a penalty to stretch the score to 25-14.

A big W under Saturday night lights!  pic.twitter.com/E2x77gHqbi  Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) November 15, 2025

Captain Doris then bulldozed over at the end of sustained pressure, with Crowley adding a tricky conversion, before Australia were left to play the final 10 minutes a man down after replacement lock Nick Frost was sin-binned for a high tackle on Tom Clarkson in the build up.

Despite the Wallabies numerical disadvantage, replacement hooker Pollard went over to reduce the deficit.

But Ireland twice responded to seal an emphatic, six-try victory, with Baird crashing over before Henshaw raced clear down the left after being released by a sensational kick from Jamison Gibson-Park.
Whip-crack brilliant: William Bracewell and Matthew Ball star in the world premiere of Cathy Marstons Against the Tide - Alastair Muir

The centrepiece of the Royal Ballets abstract Perspectives triple bill, Cathy Marstons Against the Tide is a new creation of rare intelligence and empathy. To get the most out of it, though, its crucial that you go in furnished with a few basic facts about the man who wrote the violin concerto to which it is set, Benjamin Britten (1913-1976).

The great British composer settled in Aldeburgh, on the coast of the county of his birth, Suffolk. He was gay, a pacifist, and wrote the piece in 1938-1939  just after the death of his beloved mother, and on the eve of what turned out to be an infinitely more universal calamity.

That, however, is all the historical background required for this work, which has no named characters or given plot and yet tells a vivid story of sorts. Everything else you need is right up there on a stage dominated by Chloe Lamfords extraordinary stone arch-cum-staircase, a mini Giants Causeway that generates an evocatively coastal tang while finally seeming to span an invisible Rubicon.

Chloe Lamfords set design features a mini Giants Causeway - Alastair Muir

The set-up is spare, the dancing whip-crack brilliant across the board  the sort of heads-down team effort you get only when dancers and choreographer are fully elated to be in each others company. William Bracewell is the main character, all boisterous, carefree, spring-loaded innocence. Matthew Ball, who arrives after a few minutes, is his rather slinkier love interest, the intimacy between them drawn in duets of almost puppy-like energy and devotion.

Things sour with the arrival of Nicol Edmondss martially implacable character, along with a five-strong, similarly belligerent (and martially clad) coterie. But, once the sun has set (full marks too for Fabiana Picciolis lighting), solace for Bracewell comes in the form of Melissa Hamiltons serenely realised, wraith-like mother-figure.

Matthew Ball and William Bracewell in Against the Tide - Alastair Muir

Throughout, Marstons response to Brittens turbulence is marvellous, channelling the gathering musical storm clouds into a dance of deep, mysterious drama but resisting the temptation to topple over into melodrama. The creator of such past triumphs as The Cellist (2020) gives you just enough to get a foothold in the action but refuses to spoon-feed, and the result is a chronicle of lost youth and mounting despair with which it is impossible not to engage. It confirms her as a genuine, fevered, instinctive artist who has fascinating things to say and knows how to say them. (Rating: )

The oddly named but astutely curated bill wraps with Everywhere We Go, by New York City Ballets 38-year-old resident choreographer, Justin Peck. A Royal Ballet debut for him, this proves a geometric but exultant feast of Americana, playing out to the swaggering, glossy syncopations and ever-shifting time-signatures of Detroit-born composer Sufjan Stevens.

Everywhere We Go is the Royal Ballet debut of New York City Ballets choreographer Justin Peck - Alastair Muir

Its broad-brushstrokes choreography for sure, and too long (it seems to end several times), but great fun for all that, and the company  the fast-rising Viola Pantuso, a first among equals  looks a million dollars in it ().

The bill opens with Balanchines 1934 masterpiece Serenade (conceived, like Pecks, by a man at the time not yet out of his twenties). By contrast with the other two pieces, the companys delivery here feels dutiful and professional rather than organic, as if speaking a studiously acquired foreign language rather than their mother tongue. But they dont shame themselves, and the steps and Tchaikovsky score are such wonders that I enjoyed it even so (). Certainly, it proves an enigmatic introduction to an unusually rewarding evening.

In rep until Dec 2. Tickets: 020 7304 4000; rbo.org.uk
Rachel Reeves appears to have moved away from cutting the amount a person can draw down tax-free from a pension pot. Photograph: Justin Tallis/AFP/Getty Images

Rumours about what Rachel Reeves may, or may not, do to pensions in the budget continue to swirl.

One much-debated possible change  cutting the amount of tax-free cash that people can take from their pensions  is said by some to be off the table, but reports have emerged that the chancellor has salary sacrifice pension schemes in her sights.

What is salary sacrifice?

Salary sacrifice has long been associated with initiatives such as the government-backed cycle-to-work scheme (also said to be in the chancellors mind). However, a growing number of companies are offering pension salary sacrifice as a perk, and it can be a very tax-efficient way of saving into your workplace scheme.

It involves an employee agreeing to give up some of their salary and move the amount they would otherwise receive into a benefit thats non-cash based  in this case, extra employer contributions into their pension pot.

These schemes can run alongside conventional workplace pension contributions  if your employer lets you make additional voluntary contributions this might be through salary sacrifice.

The money you sacrifice comes out of your gross pay  the salary before income tax and national insurance (NI) are taken off  so it costs less to make a contribution than if it was done out of taxed income.

By reducing your salary you also reduce how much you pay in NI. This means that your take home pay could be higher than if you paid the same sum into your pension through a traditional arrangement.

Reducing your taxed earnings can have another advantage  if you are a parent and earn more than 60,000 you could divert money into your pension and keep more of any child benefit you claim.

The schemes also benefit employers, as they do not have to pay NI on the money sacrificed. Some will pay part, or all, of their NI saving into the workers pension as well, thereby further boosting their pot.

What is being considered?

Amid suggestions that lots of higher earners are maxing out this perk, the government is reportedly looking to restrict the tax benefits offered by these schemes.

Rather than an all-out ban on using salary sacrifice, one option on the table is a 2,000 cap on the amount of earnings that can be exchanged for pension contributions that benefit from a national insurance exemption, says Charlene Young at the investment platform AJ Bell.

What would the impact be?

Introducing that cap could reportedly raise up to 2bn a year, but at a cost to employees and companies. AJ Bell says someone earning 55,000 a year who contributes 10% (5,500) into their pension through salary sacrifice would have their take-home pay cut by 188 a year and their employer would pay an extra 525 in NI. If salary sacrifice was removed as an option, the figures would rise to 441 and 825 respectively.

Pension experts have warned that cutting the incentives to save will be counterproductive at a time when there are concerns about the adequacy of peoples retirement planning.

On Thursday, the chief executive of Aviva, Amanda Blanc, told the Times: What youre effectively doing is penalising those employers that actually contribute more to employees pensions.

But youre also saying to people who save for their pension that perhaps they shouldnt do it, and I think thats bad news long-term for the UK if you think about the fact that 15 million people in the UK are not saving enough.

Is pension tax-free cash safe?

Currently, from the age of 55 (57 from April 2028) you can usually take up to 25% of your pension as a tax-free lump sum, up to a limit of 268,275.

Spool back a few weeks and there was fevered speculation that Reeves may look to slash this limit. However, during the last few days, reports have emerged claiming the Treasury has  for now  ruled out such a move.

Helen Morrissey, of the investment platform Hargreaves Lansdown, says: Restrictions to tax-free cash are reported to be firmly off the table. Its a move that will be greeted with a huge sigh of relief from people who have worked hard to build up a decent retirement income and were concerned about the looming loss of a valuable benefit.

What about pension tax relief?

In simple terms, when someone pays into a pension, the government usually adds a top-up payment called tax relief. It means their savings are usually boosted by 20% or more, depending on their rate of income tax  so people who pay tax at 40% or 45% get extra relief (different rates apply in Scotland). As a result, this is a hugely valuable tax break, and a big part of why saving into a pension is usually seen as a very good thing for people to do.

Pretty much every year there are rumours that the government is going to clamp down on pension tax relief with the aim of making the system less generous to better-off earners. That is no surprise when you consider that  depending on whose numbers you believe  tax relief on pension contributions costs the government anything from 50bn to more than 60bn a year.

At the time of writing, cutting/redistributing pension tax relief is not viewed as a frontrunner for this months budget.
Credit: X / @nexta_tv

Two Russian soldiers were saved from being blown up after a pig stepped on an anti-personnel mine left by retreating Ukrainian troops.

In footage caught on a drone camera, the pig can be seen walking along a path yards ahead of Russian troops.

Startled by the soldiers, the pig jumps and starts to run. But as it flees, its rear hooves set off the device, which explodes in a cloud of smoke.

Remarkably, the pig survived the blast, although it did appear to be injured, and the Russian soldiers avoided the debris cloud.

It is not known exactly where or when the incident was recorded, but the footage was shared on trusted social media channels.

On Saturday, street battles were continuing to rage in the besieged city of Pokrovsk. Should Russia capture the city, its troops are expected to press towards the boundaries of Donetsk region, said Maj Gen Vadym Skibitskyi, the deputy head of Ukraines defence intelligence.

Its their next direction of movement, its obvious, he said.

Also on Saturday, Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, announced an overhaul of state-owned energy companies, after the emergence of a corruption scandal at the heart of a sector battered by Russian attacks provoked a public outcry.

Anti-fraud investigators said about 80m had been embezzled from the energy sector. Mr Zelensky ordered two ministers to resign over the corruption, and sanctioned a former business partner who was named as its mastermind.

We are beginning the overhaul of key state-owned enterprises in the energy sector, Mr Zelensky said on X. Alongside a full audit of their financial activities, the management of these companies is to be renewed.

He called for a new supervisory board at Energoatom  the state nuclear company at the heart of the scandal  within a week to enable a complete overhaul of the companys management.

He also called for the quick appointment of a new head of Ukrhydroenergo, the hydro power generation company, and other reforms for Naftogaz, the oil and gas giant.

Volodymyr Zelensky visited troops near the front line in the southern Zaporizhhia region, where Russia has made recent advances, late last week - Handout/AFP via Getty Images

The scandal has prompted some of Ukraines European allies to urge Mr Zelenskys government to do more to battle corruption.

On the ground, Ukraine said it had attacked a Russian oil refinery in a region near Moscow, a day after deadly Russian attacks on its capital Kyiv.

The Ukrainian army said on social media it had hit a refinery in the Ryazan region near Moscow as part of efforts to reduce the enemys ability to launch missile and bomb strikes.

Ukraine has regularly staged missile and drone attacks inside Russia since the invasion in 2022.

Pavel Malkov, the governor of Ryazan, said Russian air defences shot down 25 Ukrainian drones over the region during the night.

Falling debris caused a fire on the premises of one enterprise, Mr Malkov said on Telegram, adding there had been no casualties.

A fire rages in Kyiv after a drone exploded during Russias attack on the Ukrainian capital on Friday - Gleb Garanich/Reuters

An investigator inspects damage to one of the apartment blocks hit during the Russian assault on Kyiv, during which at least seven people died - Thomas Peter/Reuters

The attack came a day after Russia struck apartment blocks across Kyiv, killing at least seven people.

It has been reported that an elderly woman who was wounded during the shelling on Nov 14 died in hospital this morning, Tymur Tkachenko of Kyivs city administration, said on social media on Saturday.

Other victims included a couple in their 70s and a 62-year-old.

Officials in the central Dnipropetrovsk region said a Russian drone on Saturday wounded five people, one seriously, in the city of Nikopol.

Nikopol lies on the Dnipro River that forms the frontline with Russian forces.

On the opposite occupied bank of the river, Yevgeny Balitsky, a Moscow-installed official, said a Ukrainian drone had hit power lines, causing supply cuts for some 44,000 subscribers.
Starmers predecessor as Director for Public Prosecutions to lead major review of protest laws

Sir Keir Starmers predecessor as Director of Public Prosecutions will lead a major review of protest powers and hate crime laws.

Home secretary Shabana Mahmood announced in October that police forces would be granted new powers to put conditions on repeat protests and pledged an independent review of existing protest and hate crime laws.

The move came after an attack on a synagogue in Manchester that left two dead.

Now a former head of the Crown Prosecution Service, the body responsible for charging decisions in England and Wales, Lord Ken Macdonald KC, has been tasked with considering whether legislation should go further to keep people safe.

Ms Mahmood has commissioned the review after being concerned about the impact of both public protest and hate crime on cohesion and safety.

Lord Ken Macdonald, a former director of public prosecutions, will lead an independent review into protest and hate crime powers (AFP/Getty)

Lord Macdonald, who was previously a defence lawyer, is being asked to examine the current offences for aggravated behaviour and stirring up hatred.

He has been asked to look at whether the law is sufficiently protecting communities from hate and intimidation.

Ms Mahmood said: The terrorist attack in Manchester on 2 October shocked the nation and showed how hatred and division can fuel violence.

It happened at a time of growing concern about protests and hate crime in this country.

Our laws must protect the public, while upholding the right to protest and free speech.

She added: Lawful protest and free speech are fundamental rights, but we cannot allow them to be abused to spread hate or cause disorder. The law must be fit for purpose and consistently applied.

Human rights group Liberty has previously warned that plans to restrict repeat protests risk seeing the right to protest in the UK stripped to the bone.

Earlier in November, Ruth Ehrlich, head of policy at Liberty, said: Police already have extensive powers to restrict protests, yet these measures add to an ever-expanding web of anti-protest laws.

They recommended ministers focus on examine why existing laws are supposedly failing and ensure peoples rights to demonstrate are protected.
Steve Bannon in April 2025 in Washington DC. Photograph: Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images

Hundreds of texts over almost a year show Maga influencer Steve Bannon and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein workshopping legal and media strategies to protect Epstein from the legal and publicity quagmire that enveloped him in the last year of his life.

The texts, released by the House oversight committee on Wednesday, show that as early as June 2018, the pair were devising responses to the gathering storm of public outrage about Epsteins criminal history, his favorable treatment by the justice system, and his friendships with powerful figures in business, politics and academia.

Bannon conspiratorially described the renewed scrutiny of Epstein as a sophisticated op, and over time he counseled Epstein in his adversarial responses to media outlets, the justice system and his victims.

All the while, both men were also strategizing how best to promote Bannons rightwing populist agenda, and the political fortunes of its standard bearer, Donald Trump.

Related: Jeffrey Epstein advised Steve Bannon during 2018 pro-Trump media campaign

In all of Epsteins messages, the identity of his correspondent is redacted. But Bannons identity in the threads cited in this reporting is clear from contextual clues including his documented activities at the time, details of his business and media pursuits, and other disclosures. In one document, the senders phone number is not redacted  and it is the same number linked to Bannon in a legal case against Trump adviser Roger Stone.

Bannon did not respond to requests for comment. When Elon Musk said earlier this year that Bannon is in the Epstein files, Bannon told the Independent he wanted a special investigator to look into all the Epstein documents.

The men were discussing Epsteins problems even before he came to broader public awareness as a notorious sex criminal with odd connections to the Trump administration.

Bannon left the Trump White House in late summer 2017, but enjoyed a vibrant career as a Maga influencer.

On 22 June 2018, days after Epstein had been the focus of an anti-Trump protest at a Trump speech, the men began discussing the scandal that was beginning to loom over Epstein.

At first they treated it as a publicity problem, with Bannon seeing it as an orchestrated campaign. (All correspondence is reproduced with typos and unconventional spelling and punctuation in originals.)

Bannon asked Epstein: Who is running this op on u something serious going on.

Epstein replied: First a protest at Clinton and then at trump. Lots of people very angry at our friendship.

Bannon responded: Its an op dude  I do this for a living  the pieces that are dropping are deeply researched, adding: This is sophisticated op.

In November, blockbuster coverage from the Miami Herald began highlighting Epsteins misdeeds, connections and the apparent leniency shown to him at center stage.

In December he was not only feeling the heat, but musing about his capacity to damage the Trump administration.

On 18 December, an unknown correspondent tried to reassure Epstein, writing: It will all blow over! Theyre really just trying to take down Trump and doing whatever they can to do that  !

Epstein responded: yes thx. its wild. because i am the one able to take him down.

In early February 2019, Bannon opened an exchange on the developing story by linking to an item at controversial news site Zero Hedge that quoted Republican then senator Ben Sasse on the matter.

Epstein responded: Yes/ wild, and linked to a Fox News item covering the same ground.

He then asked for Bannons advice on how to respond: Continue to ignore? Ann Coulter on hannity/. Attack? Op ed , ? Not my skill set, adding: What about the attunes penning something that suggests indignation and lays out some of the facts.

That drives it a week, Bannon responded, causing Epstein to seek clarification: sasse calling me a child rapist , is nuts!!! Sorry do. You mean ignore. , or responding makes it worse. ? Bannon replied: I think makes it way worse.

Epstein responded: K, what about Ken talking directly to sasse.

Bannon replied: Wont help but yes.

While the reference to Ken is not specific in this instance, Epstein and Bannons other exchanges frequently reference Epsteins relationship with Ken Starr, the special counsel who pursued Bill Clinton over the Lewinsky affair, who later defended Epstein in his first prosecution over sex offenses in 2007, and Donald Trump in his 2020 impeachment trial. Starr died in 2022.

Later that month, in an apparent continuation of the same conversation, a correspondent, apparently Bannon (this document has fewer contextual cues than others referred to in this reporting) counseled: If you do an interview it cant be like Johnnie does a utube  has to be amazingly professional and perfectly cut.

Epsteins response acknowledges the depths to which his public image had sunk: woody said he would help edit. not sure how to stage, what points to make. but better than trying to do an interview that i have no experience doing. goal to himanize the monster. anything written carries iittle weight.

Bannon agreed, and Epstein asked a follow-up question that appealed to Bannons extensive film-making experience: should it be in an interview format. ? interviewed by ? or just me? speaking to the camera. humor ? apology? how did i get rich. ? topics?

There was no direct text response, but elsewhere in their exchanges there is evidence the two frequently spoke on the phone.

The next day, Epstein attacked his victims, writing: One of the most important facts for the public seems to be the girls used the agreement to get money and only after then tried to have it voided.

By April, the two were apparently planning a film production that would redeem Epsteins reputation.

On 30 April, Epstein wrote: the christians i met with feel , the media portraying me as beyond redemption is deeply troubling and offensive.

Bannon replied with strategic remarks: Yes yes yes of course  but we must counter rapist who traffics in female children to be raped by worlds most powerful , richest men  that cant be redeemed  that why we let them blow up the argument while showing the 12 you redeemed.

He added: Cant redeem unredeemable   you are a lot of things  which we will show  but you are NOT that.

Bannon then asked: Did u get the film we shot ??

Epstein responded: Just landed.

They then appear to discuss financing the film in a way that obscures Epsteins involvement.

Bannon then asked: Are you far enough along on your assignment  could we film this weekend ??

Epstein then asked: how many people would you bring.

Bannon responded: Limited crew  5 max prob 3.

Further on, Epstein asked: Did your guys prefer beard or no beard, and Bannon responded: Slight growth.

In 2024, media reports indicated that Bannon recorded some 15 hours of Epstein for a planned documentary as a way of assisting him with his PR problems.

In May 2019, Bannon was encouraging Epstein as he adopted a professionally devised media strategy to deal with increased scrutiny after the Miami Herald published an explosive series into his plea deal with the federal government years earlier, which kicked off a steady drumbeat of news coverage about the billionaire. He texted Epstein: Did u hire the crisis comms guy so we can drive the narrative off that great times piece.

Epstein responded: Hes here with me now. He thinks stick to legal legal legal . A deal is a deal etc. and then a few months from now.

He again acknowledged his image problem: Decide how to deal with the pervert hermit image and fill the box with another narrative.

Bannon responded: Agree:: how are we sticking to the legal legal legal.

Epstein responded: Articles by legal people . Professors. Lawyers etc. now Im focused.

Bannon responded with relief: U had me worried  focus good.

On 28 May, the pair expressed a shared irritation at Epsteins inclusion in Fire and Fury, the first of a string of five books by author Michael Wolff which chronicle Trumps career in national politics.

Epstein wrote: I have now seen some of Wolffs book. Mentions me and underage prostitutes. You as the man behind and in front of the curtain. Lots of Steve quotes. Lots.

Bannon replied: Ugh  anything awful??? Wish he hadnt done that  why are u mentioned @ all?

Epstein responded: Palm beach house purchase. . dont reach out to Michael, and then offered details on Wolffs treatment of Epstein.

Bannon responded: Ugh.

Bannon also offered an ugh in response to a link Epstein sent separately to a Raw Story article that re-reported details of the real estate deal that Wolff claimed ended Trump and Epsteins friendship.

Bannon frequently cheered Epstein on as the furor around the case grew, and in one instance joined in on a late spasm of false optimism.

On 25 June, just weeks before Epstein was spectacularly re-arrested, he texted Bannon a headline: Jeffrey Epstein plea deal must stand, prosecutors tell sex abuse victims.

Bannon responded: Dude!!!!, adding: Is this real Tell me this is real, and later adding: Is that out anywhere yet.

Epstein replied: Miami herald. But more and better july 9.

The Miami Herald had published a story under that headline the same day.

Bannon responded: Epic epic epic.

Epstein was arrested on 7 July.

In May, in a discussion which was otherwise about US and international politics, Epstein objected to a detail in a New York Post story about his Virgin Island compound, writing: Underwater office ? How nuts are these people.

On 3 June, Trump and his wife, Melania, had been escorted by Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who was then a prince, to a war memorial during a state visit to the UK.

The same day, Epstein texted Bannon: prince andrew and trump today. t000 funny, adding: recall prince andrews accuser came out of mara lago.

Bannon responded: Cant believe nobody is making u the connective tissue.

This thread included an unredacted number that matches numbers associated with Bannon in 2019 court filings.

With Bannon and others, Epstein railed against the progress of the #MeToo movement throughout 2018 and 2019.

As his own problems closed in, Epstein offered advice to Bannon on how to undermine accusations brought against Brett Kavanaugh, then a supreme court candidate, by Christine Blasey Ford during his confirmation hearings.

On 30 September 2018, Epstein told Bannon that Republicans should make sure they ask ford about her medications , what type and for how long. . my guess is that katz wont let her answer.

Bannon replied: Roger, and Epstein responded with a link to a website article claiming to detail memory loss caused by various medications.

Bannon asked: Is this a hint, and Epstein replied duh and sent another link, this time to a scholarly article, adding: False memories in social anxiety disorder.

He continued: she couldnt recall if the lie detector was given the same day as her mothers funeral or the next day.? MEDS.
Donald Trumps administration has added four European left-wing groups to the U.S. governments list of foreign terrorist organizations, marking a global escalation of the presidents war on ideological opponents that treats Antifa similarly to the Islamic state.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the administration is designating Germanys Antifa Ost, Italy-based International Revolutionary Front, and two organizations in Greece  Armed Proletarian Justice and Revolutionary Class Self Defense  as both Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists that the administration claims are conspiring to undermine the foundations of Western Civilization through their brutal attacks.

Groups affiliated with this movement ascribe to revolutionary anarchist or Marxist ideologies, including anti-Americanism, anti-capitalism and anti-Christianity, using these to incite and justify violent assaults domestically and overseas, Rubio said in a statement Thursday.

In September, the president signed an executive order singling out the militant antifascist movement and the people who financially support it as a domestic terror organization. There is no domestic terrorist organization designation under U.S. law, and Antifa is not a specific organization but a term that encompasses a wider ideologically driven movement against fascism.

But foreign terrorist organization labels could lead to financial sanctions, travel restrictions and federal law enforcement scrutiny, including surveillance and financial oversight of alleged connections in the United States.

The Trump administration is escalating its global campaign against left-wing opposition by labelling four European leftist groups foreign terror organizations (AFP via Getty Images)

That could include freezing assets belonging to anyone believed to be connected to the groups, and restrictions on U.S. citizens, organizations or companies from doing any transactions with them.

The latest designations, effective November 20, mark the first time that the movement has been labeled a foreign terrorist threat.

There are extensive foreign ties, and I think that would be a very valid step, White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller said during a White House roundtable discussion on Antifa in September.

The administration is eager to seek legal justifications to stamp out left-wing dissent and connect his Democratic opponents and critics to the movement; officials, media personalities and right-wing allies have repeatedly accused Antifa of violent attacks against federal law enforcement while baselessly alleging that Democratic elected officials and groups that financially support Democratic candidates and causes are financially supporting them and covering up their crimes.

The president also issued a national security directive in September that orders federal law enforcement agencies to dismantle groups accused of supporting acts of domestic terror before theyre committed, pointing to anti-Christian, anti-capitalism or anti-American views as identifiable markers.

Fighting crime is more than just getting the bad guy off the streets, Attorney General Pam Bondi said during Septembers roundtable.

Its breaking down the organization brick by brick, she said.

Just like we did with cartels, we're going to take this same approach, President Trump, with Antifa: Destroy the entire organization from top to bottom.

The administration has already labeled the decentralized militant antifascist movement a domestic terror group, though the legal ramifications are unclear (REUTERS)

Antifa encompasses individuals and loosely affiliated groups in a broader militant subculture  often physically confronting far-right groups in the streets  that has become a global right-wing bogeyman in the wake of nationwide protests, with some turning violent, over the last decade.

Since 2001, the vast majority of groups added to the foreign terrorist organizations have largely been connected to Islamic extremist groups and militants that have threatened the United States, such as al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.

But the 23 entities that the Trump administration has added or plans to add mark the largest single-year additions to the list since it was established in 1997.

Critics have warned against conflating militant antifascist activism with other ideologically motivated violence responsible for large-scale terror attacks.

There seems to be no justification for how they determined any of these groups are foreign terrorist groups, according to sociologist Stanislav Vysotsky, author of American Antifa and Antifa: What Everyone Needs to Know. And certainly no evidence that they have direct ties to any U.S. antifa groups. Just like with the rest of this antifa panic, theyre just randomly creating boogeymen.

He said the administration likely wont be able to prove links between domestic Antifa groups and foreign groups on the State Departments latest list, but that wont stop them from bringing the full force of federal law enforcement against antifascists domestically.
President Donald Trump gloated over news that Republican Rep. Thomas Massie has remarried after the death of his first wife last year  which proved a step too far for some of his MAGA loyalists.

The Kentucky representative announced on Nov. 3 that he remarried last month following the sudden death of his first wife of 31 years, Rhonda, in June 2024.

Trump, who has been married three times, took a swipe at Massie and his new bride, Carolyn Moffa, whom he met 10 years ago when she worked as a policy staffer for Senator Rand Paul.

Did Thomas Massie, sometimes referred to as Rand Paul Jr., because of the fact that he always votes against the Republican Party, get married already??? Boy, that was quick! Trump said in a post Friday on Truth Social.

No wonder the Polls have him at less than an 8% chance of winning the Election, Trump continued. Anyway, have a great life Thomas and (?). His wife will soon find out that shes stuck with a LOSER!

President Donald Trump gloated over news that Rep. Thomas Massie has remarried after the death of his first wife last year (Getty Images)

The Independent has contacted Massies office for comment.

Trump was called out by some of his own MAGA faithful, including his former attorney Jenna Ellis, who was among those who falsely claimed the 2020 election was stolen from Trump.

Ellis accused Trump of political mud-slinging and publicly denounced his remarks about Massies new wife.

I know personally from my friendship of more a decade with Massie how incredibly difficult it was to find himself suddenly a widower and losing his best friend, Ellis said in a post on X.

Some things are still sacred and should still be beyond this kind of political mud-slinging, she said.

Right-wing commentator Evan Kilgore said Trumps post was disgusting.

Donald Trump just attacked Thomas Massie for getting re-married recently after his wife tragically passed away last year, Kilgore said on his X account. He then uses it as an attack on @RepThomasMassie to imply he is going to lose his next election.

This is actually disgusting, he continued. Donald Trump has lost me.

Conservative commentator Rebekah Worsham, whose X account the Patriotic Blonde has more than 100,000 followers, sarcastically mocked Trump for his comment about Massie.

Trumps swipe at Massie has upset even some of his most faithful supporters (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

How presidential, she said, quoting Trump.

Other accounts proclaiming to be America First also criticized the president.

This is so low, said another. Its bad enough that Trump attacks Thomas Massie (whos actually America First) but dont bring his wife into this. Disgusting.

This is very nasty by Trump, said another America First X user.

Massie has led the charge in defying the president by calling for the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files, joining forces with Democrats and other rebel GOP lawmakers, including Marjorie Taylor Greene.

The Georgia representative, once a Trump loyalist, has found herself on the receiving end of the presidents ire after she refused to back down in calling for the release of the Epstein files.

The pair are in the midst of a public feud, while Massie has been at loggerheads with Trump for years.
For the second time this year, Dan Edwin Wilson, a former January 6 defendant and member of the far-right group the Oath Keepers, received a pardon from President Donald Trump  this time to wipe two possession of an unregistered firearm charges.

Wilson, 50, was among the nearly 1,600 people who received a day-one pardon from the president for their role in the attack on the Capitol. He had been charged with conspiracy to impede or injure an officer at the Capitol.

But he also received separate charges of possession of an unregistered firearm in Kentucky  which were brought after law enforcement officials investigating his role in January 6 executed a search warrant on Wilsons home.

A judge overseeing the firearm possession charges case refused to extend Trumps January 6 pardon to cover those counts  leading Trump to make a second act of clemency Friday, first reported by Politico.

A White House official said in a statement that Trump chose to pardon Wilson again because the search of Mr. Wilsons home was due to the events of January 6.

Wilson, pictured at the Capitol on January 6, had planned the protest with other participants weeks before it occurred, according to messages obtained by prosecutors (Department of Justice)

During the investigation into Wilsons activities on January 6, prosecutors said he communicated with others to organize a protest at the Capitol as a way to support Trump, who had spread lies that the 2020 election was rigged against him.

Prosecutors said through messages, Wilson identified himself as a member of the Oath Keepers and the Gray Ghost Partisan Rangers militias. He discussed bringing firearms to Washington, D.C., ahead of the protest and the possibility of a civil war.

In a December 2020 message, Wilson wrote: If Trump wins we have to get this government under control its been crossing my mind if we go to a Civil War do we try to take Washington DC first or do we try to take state capitals first.

Days later, Wilson wrote: "I am ready to lay my life on the line. It is time for good men to do bad things."

Trump issued pardons to supporters convicted over their roles in the January 6 riot as one of his first acts of his second term as president (Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

In August 2024, Wilson pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charges related to his efforts on January 6. He was initially sentenced to five years in prison.

But Wilson was among the handful of January 6 defendants who were not permitted to leave prison after Trump granted the sweeping pardons on his first day in office due to the other firearm possession charges.

Although the administration initially agreed that Trumps day-one pardon did not cover Wilsons firearm charges, the Justice Department later changed its mind and argued it should since the firearm charges stemmed from an investigation related to the January 6 charges.

However, the judge disagreed, believing it extended Trumps pardon too far.

Trumps second pardon explicitly references the firearm-related charges case.

Attorneys for Wilson said in a statement to Politico, Dan Wilson is a good man. After more than 7 months of unjustified imprisonment, he is relieved to be home with his loved ones.

This act of mercy not only restores his freedom but also shines a light on the overreach that has divided this nation, the attorneys said.
As relations between the two countries continue to deteriorate US forces stationed in the region are waiting to see whether formal orders will follow - Getty Images/Triniti Lersch

US troops are on standby for possible attack orders after Donald Trump said he had sort of made up [his] mind about whether to launch military action in Venezuela.

The US president has held a string of back-to-back meetings in which he reviewed military options  including the use of special operations forces and direct action inside Venezuela.

Speaking to reporters on Air Force One late on Friday night, he said: I sort of made up my mind. I cant tell you what it is, but we made a lot of progress with Venezuela in terms of stopping drugs from pouring in.

Relations between Nicolas Maduro, the Venezuelan president, and Mr Trump have deteriorated sharply since the US presidents second term began, driven by US accusations that the Venezuelan government is complicit in drug trafficking.

In August, the Trump administration doubled the bounty for information leading to Mr Maduros arrest to $50m. The following month, the US began striking boats off Venezuelas coast, alleging they were drug-trafficking vessels.

Since then, Washington has stationed roughly 15,000 troops in the region  its largest presence in decades  backed by F-35 aircraft, warships and a nuclear submarine.

The US has put a $50m bounty on the head of Nicolas Maduro, the Venezuelan president - Reuters/Leonardo Fernandez Viloria

Mr Trumps comments on Friday suggested a decision about what comes next may already have been made. An administration official had earlier said the president was presented with a host of options.

US forces stationed in the region are waiting to see whether formal orders will follow.

The rhetoric from the White House has steadily been ramping up. On Thursday, Pete Hegseth, the US defence secretary, announced on social media that a Caribbean mission had been named Southern Spear with a stated purpose to remove narco-terrorists from our hemisphere.

Senior Pentagon officials described those killed in the US boat strikes as enemy combatants and killed in action  terms usually reserved for wartime operations.

The administrations legal justification for its military operations around Latin America describes fentanyl as a potential chemical weapons threat  a framing that experts warn could lay the groundwork for broader military action.

Fighter pilots on the USS Gerald R. Ford have been analysing Venezuelan air-defence networks in preparation for potential strikes, though they have yet to be told whether an attack order is coming, a person familiar with the matter told the Washington Post.

Two sources also told the newspaper that the US has raised the possibility of involving the militarys elite Delta Force, a highly trained Special Operations unit used frequently during wars in the Middle East.

US fighter pilots have been analysing Venezuelan air-defence networks in preparation for potential strikes - Reuters/Ricardo Arduengo

The escalatory signals follow on from Mr Trump previously saying he wanted to expand his campaign against the alleged drug vessels to the land.

However, it remains possible that Mr Trumps remarks were simply another escalation in a pressure campaign aimed at intimidating Mr Maduro, rather than a sign of imminent action. Aides have insisted the president has not yet authorised military force.

Some analysts believe Mr Trump may be leveraging the size of the US military deployment to force Mr Maduros hand  perhaps hoping he either flees or is captured, possibly to face charges in the US.

Its definitely a pressure campaign, Gen. Laura J. Richardson, a retired four-star Army officer who until last fall was head of the Pentagons Southern Command, overseeing operations in Latin America, told the New York Times.

The president has told Congress that there were no active preparations for a full-blown attack, and both Mr Hegseth and Marco Rubio, the Secretary of State, have privately assured select lawmakers that no war is imminent.

At the same time, the administrations legal justification apparently does not seek permission for an attack on Venezuela itself.

Mr Trump has defended his military build-up and the boat strikes as part of a war on drugs, even though Venezuela produces relatively little cocaine and plays no role in the fentanyl trade.

This week reports also emerged that Mr Trump has discussed Venezuelas huge oil reserves, the largest in the world, with his aides. He is said to have received an offer from Mr Maduro that would have effectively given the US rights to much of that oil without military action. An official told The New York Times that the talks had been paused but were not entirely dead.

Mr Maduro meanwhile has accused the US president of seeking to oust him. Mr Trump and his officials deem him an illegitimate leader but have repeatedly denied attempting to overthrow him.

In response to the mounting pressure, the Venezuelan defence ministry has mobilised nearly 200,000 air, ground, and naval personnel, a clear signal that Caracas is bracing for whatever comes next.
Complaints via mail would still be accepted. (Dominic Lipinski/PA)

Residents in a New York suburb seeking to report issues like potholes or trash will now have to do so in person, as a local village is no longer allowing electronic complaints. Islandia, on Long Island, has ceased allowing grievances via email or its online portal, requiring submissions to be made directly at the villages government offices.

The policy, adopted last month, comes after officials claimed they were besieged by online grievances that have turned out to be unfounded. While the online portal is no longer an option, a village spokesperson informed Newsday that complaints sent via certified or registered mail would also be accepted.

Mayor Allan Dorman stated the measure was necessary after the village, situated approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Manhattan, experienced an inundation of complaints through its digital channels.

Complaints via mail would still be accepted. (Dominic Lipinski/PA)

He and other village officials say theyve tried to block problem accounts and even tried to launch a new online complaint portal but continued to get spammed by anonymous users.

Its just harassment, Dorman complained at an Oct. 21 meeting in which the policy was adopted by the village board of trustees, Newsday reported. Every time you check out the complaint, it doesnt pan out. So, youre just wasting the resources in the village office (and) taking people away from their jobs.

Village spokesperson John Zaher said Friday that the orchestrated campaign of hundreds of bogus complaints from anonymous email addresses began in January.

We believe the spam emails are from one or two individuals who have an axe to grind with the Village, he said in a statement. This effort was designed to harass the Village Administration and its residents, requiring the use of government resources, including those of code enforcement and public safety in attempts to investigate these complaints.

Zaher said the village is taking down the website complaint system. Residents who file a complaint in person do not have to provide contact information and will instead be given a control number to follow up on it anonymously.

Another Long Island community, Patchogue, also recently changed its policy to allow only in-person complaints or those submitted through registered or certified mail, according to Newsday.
Harold Wilson met Ian Smith for talks in Gibraltar, where the the plane was found to have been tampered with - Getty Images

Harold Wilson was famously paranoid that the security services had a plot against him.

While the so-called Wilson plot by MI5 has never been proven, The Telegraph can reveal that there was evidence that suggests someone was out to get the Labour prime minister.

A document uncovered in the National Archives reveals that nearly 60 years ago an RAF aircraft used to transport Wilson and Rhodesian leader Ian Smiths government delegations to Gibraltar for high-level talks was sabotaged.

A secret memo says that during the trip in October 1968 the nuts and bolts on one plane were loosened during the night as part of an attempt to interfere with this aircraft.

Wilson and a 35-strong British delegation arrived in Gibraltar on an RAF Comet and Britannia transport aircraft on Oct 8 for a summit with Rhodesias rebel prime minister, aimed at resolving the political crisis sparked by the Rhodesian governments Unilateral Declaration of Independence from Britain three years earlier.

The following day, Smith and a party of his government officials were flown from the Rhodesian capital Salisbury, now Harare, to Gibraltar on two RAF Britannias for the talks, which were held aboard the Royal Navy warship HMS Fearless, anchored in Gibraltar harbour.

However, during routine servicing of one of the Britannias at Gibraltars joint civil-military airport, an RAF Squadron Leader reported to Michael Halls, Wilsons principal private secretary, that the aircraft had been deliberately tampered with the nuts on the front wheels had been loosened.

The memo warned that had these loose nuts not been discovered on servicing, it would have been serious for the take-off of this aircraft, particularly from this air strip.

Gibraltar is a particularly difficult airport for pilots due to crosswinds, turbulence and its short runway.

The memo that revealed that Wilsons plane had been tampered with...

...not surprisingly, the memo went on to insist that extra security been given to the PMs aircraft

The RAF admitted to Halls that access to Wilson and Smiths aircraft at Gibraltar was relatively easy as they werent being guarded at the airport. After the sabotage was discovered, the Squadron Leader assured Halls that all four aircraft used to transport the British and Rhodesian delegations had been moved to a secure part of the airfield and put under armed guard.

That evening, Wilson was informed of the sabotage, but the RAFs investigation failed to identify who had tampered with the aircraft, or whether their intended target was the British PM or Smith.

Years later, Wilson himself claimed that rogue elements in the security services were at the time plotting to overthrow him, and there have been persistent rumours that in 1968 these plotters, fearing the UK was becoming ungovernable, planned to oust Wilson and install the Queens cousin Lord Louis Mountbatten as an interim prime minister.

The Wilson Plot was one of the more persistent controversies relating to MI5 during the 1970s and 1980s, with officers accused of conspiring against the prime minister.

During his second term, Wilson became convinced that he was under constant electronic surveillance and Philip Ziegler, his official biographer, wrote of an account in a No 10 toilet where the Prime Minister pointed at the electric light fitting and made an exaggerated gesture of caution, putting his finger to his lips and indicating that confidential talk would be unsafe.

Wilson, the prime minister from 1964-1970 and 1974-1976 - Getty Images

George HW Bush, the former US president and then director of the CIA, reportedly emerged from a meeting at Downing Street, and noted: He did nothing but complain about being spied on!

After Wilson went public with his fears a year after he left office, James Callaghan, then prime minister, launched an inquiry but found that at no time has the security service or any other British intelligence or security agency, either of its own accord or at someone elses request, undertaken electronic surveillance in 10 Downing Street or in the prime ministers room in the House of Commons.

When the allegations surfaced again a decade later with the publication of Spycatcher, a book by Peter Wright, a former security service officer, then prime minister Margaret Thatcher said that she had been assured no evidence was found to back up the claims.

The talks in Gibraltar between Wilson and Smith over the future of Rhodesia ended in deadlock, and on Oct 13 Wilson flew back to London in an RAF Comet.

Rhodesia gained independence in 1980 when it became the Republic of Zimbabwe.
Dr Kriesels has been accused of anti-Semitism after carrying an anti-Israel sign at protests

An NHS doctor who said Hamas terrorists were oppressed resistance fighters held up an anti-Semitic sign at a pro-Palestinian protest, a tribunal heard.

Dr Ellen Kriesels was photographed holding a placard of the Israeli flag surrounded by the words rape, steal, cry, kill, cheat, lie.

Her posts on X included repeated accusations about Jewish supremacy and claims that Judaism was a racist, imperialist and genocidal religion.

She claimed Hamas was a political party, called its members oppressed resistance fighters, not terrorists, and claimed yellow ribbons worn in support of Israeli hostages were a visual sign of Jewish supremacy.

Dr Kriesels, a consultant developmental paediatrician who works at Whittington Hospital in north London, appeared at a Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service hearing in Manchester on Friday.

The tribunal made an interim order of suspension for nine months. It said there were concerns regarding her fitness to practise, which posed a real risk to members of the public and which may adversely affect the public interest.

Dr Kriesels, being interviewed about the NHS, has been suspended for nine months

The tribunal noted that members of the public might believe she holds biased views and be hesitant to be treated by her and, taking all information into account, it was satisfied she could pose a real risk to public safety.

The General Medical Council (GMC) had sought an 18-month suspension due to concerns about patient safety and public confidence in her profession.

Opening the case for the GMC, Ms Isobel Thomas said it had received a complaint about the doctor from the UK Lawyers for Israel (UKLFI).

Ms Thomas said the hospital trust had received more than 1,500 emails, many from patients, alleging that Dr Krieselss actions were anti-Semitic and racist.

She said colleagues had also expressed concern about working with her, and the trust had launched a preliminary investigation and suspended her in September. A complaint was also made to police but no action was taken, the tribunal also heard.

The trust had asked her take down the posts but she had refused, Ms Thomas said, and when challenged about the placard, the doctor said it doesnt matter what people say and she was only expressing facts.

The tribunal heard how the doctor had displayed the placard at several demonstrations, including one organised by the Palestine Coalition in central London in September.

Patient safety fears over anti-Semitic views

One of the doctors social media posts claimed: Most Jews, Zionist or not, centre their Jewish identity in the midst of this genocide which is proof of supremacy.

Talking about the Hamas terror attack on Israel on Oct 7 2023 she said: Some Jews merely say it was a progrom [sic]. Other Jews merely say that it was antisemitic. Always trying to frame the Jews as victims. So ridiculous. So excruciating. So exhausting.

And in response to a comment by the actress Miriam Margolyes about Gaza that Hitler won; he changed us, Dr Kriesels said: Why mention your sense of victimhood AT ALL when your fellow Jews are committing a gleeful genocide.

Ms Thomas said: Her anti-Semitic views may impact on her ability to provide safe care to members of the population. Jewish families may be concerned they will not receive impartial care from her.

Dr Kriesels claimed her actions were not anti-Semitic or racist but anti-Zionist - STEVE ALLEN

An 18-month interim order of suspension was necessary to protect the public, she said, adding that the doctor had no protection under Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights relating to freedom of expression to make anti-Semitic or racist statements.

Dr Kriesels claimed her actions were not anti-Semitic or racist but anti-Zionist, and that she had acted in a personal capacity, not as a NHS doctor. She was the victim of orchestrated harassment, the tribunal heard, and the allegations against her led to concerns about her personal safety.

Giving evidence, Dr Kriesels said she had been deeply affected by the genocide in Gaza and horrified by what Israel was doing. She claimed: I believe Zionism results in terrorism for Palestinians and Zionism should be demolished.

She added that the GMC should protect doctors from vexatious accusations and shouldnt be policing matters of free speech.

Richard ODair, the doctors counsel, argued that she had never been the subject of any complaints in her 14 years of clinical practice, and a suspension for expressing opinions about genocide in Gaza would have a chilling effect on free speech and colleagues.

A GMC spokesman said: The Interim Orders Tribunal has agreed with our submission and suspended Dr Kriesels registration while we continue our investigation into her fitness to practise. Our focus is to complete our investigation swiftly, fairly and proportionately.
Nigel Farages party says its councils have fixed almost 115,000 potholes since May - Screengrab

Reform councils have fixed almost 115,000 potholes since the May elections, the party has said.

It means partys councils are fixing the equivalent of about 630 potholes a day, The Telegraph has calculated.

Nigel Farage, the party leader, had promised that the partys Doge unit  created to emulate Donald Trumps Department of Government Efficiency in the US  would address the problem of potholes and tackle council waste.

Reform, which shared the figures with The Telegraph, also claimed that it has cut over 330m worth of waste across its councils, including saving 32m in Kent and 23m in Durham after un-declaring a climate emergency.

In Kent, the party claims scrapping the transitioning of a vehicle fleet to electric vehicles will have saved over 7.5m by 2030.

Scrapping net zero in Leicestershire enabled Reform to redirect 2m in real world flooding protection, with 30m invested in schools to create 850 more secondary school places.

In Staffordshire, the party has also saved 63 farms from being sold, and stopped food land from being swapped for net zero projects.

Mess of past Tory administrations

Richard Tice, Reforms deputy leader and head of Doge, said: Since May, Reform UK councillors have been getting on with the job of cleaning up the mess of past Tory administrations. This is only the start of our plans at local government level. Reform will fix broken Britain.

It comes after criticism of Kent council emerged last month after a leaked video of a Reform meeting saw Linden Kemkaran, the authoritys leader, telling members to f---ing suck it up when they disagreed on big decisions.

With a budget of over 2.5bn, Ms Kemkaran called the council a shop window for what Reform could do if it ran the country.

The row prompted comparisons to the Handforth parish council meeting in December 2020, which transformed Jackie Weaver into a fleeting celebrity.

Meanwhile, North Northamptonshire, which has had a Reform majority since May, has approved plans to double council tax on its 511 second homes from April 2027, despite Mr Farage previously calling the levy madness.

In May, the Reform leader told the Telegraph: Whatever the downsides of increased house prices, these people bring a lot of money into these areas.
Ricky Gervaiss new poster for Dutch Barn vodka, a brand he co-owns, highlights the citys reputation as a hotspot for phone theft

Ricky Gervais has mocked Sir Sadiq Khans record on crime in a vodka advert on the London Underground.

The 64-year-old comedian has taken aim at the citys high crime rate in a poster campaign on the Tube for Dutch Barn vodka, a brand he co-owns.

One advert shows The After Life star holding up a glass of spirit against the line: Welcome to London. Hold on to your phone.

The poster appears to reference Londons reputation as a hotspot for phone theft, a crime that has surged during Sir Sadiqs tenure as Mayor. Metropolitan Police figures show that 117,211 phones were stolen last year, up from 91,481 in 2019  a rise of 25 per cent.

In a recent podcast interview, Alexa Chung, the model and television presenter, said she was forced to fight off a phone snatcher in Hackney. Ms Chung, 42, said she refused to let him have it and told the criminal f--- you.

Gervais has claimed on Instagram that this poster is one of the few that survived alleged censorship by Transport for London (TfL), although the organisation denies rejecting any adverts.

Announcing the new campaign, Gervais said that the first poster had been put up in Bank station and urged fans to share photos, adding: They cost a packet and they might be taken down if people complain.

Oh my god! They've started going up. 1st one at Bank Station. Please post a pic if you see one over the coming weeks. They cost a packet and they might be taken down if people complain. Oh, and thanks again for your support. It really helped  pic.twitter.com/AXbR18h2CO  Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) November 12, 2025

He has previously said promotional posters for his vodka brand that highlighted crime were banned from the Tube.

On Oct 30, he posted a mocked-up version of an allegedly rejected advert that read: Welcome to London: Dont forget your stab vest. He captioned it: Got another billboard rejected.

Two days later, on Nov 1, a man boarded an LNER train to London Kings Cross and stabbed 11 people. Anthony Williams, 32, has since been charged with multiple counts of attempted murder in relation to the incident.

TfL has denied censoring any of Gervaiss adverts, telling the Metro newspaper that such posters were never referred to TfL or their advertising partners for consideration.

But Gervais has continued to take aim at Sir Sadiqs record on crime while promoting the vodka, which is made from British apples at a North Yorkshire distillery.

The Mayor has faced growing criticism as increasingly brazen thieves, often masked and riding e-bikes, target residents and tourists for their phones.

Last month the Mets newly appointed lead on phone theft said the forces response had not been good enough. Just over 1 per cent of phone thefts in London result in a charge or conviction, compared with 11 per cent for robberies.

Commander Andy Featherstone said phone theft was an outlier for the Met, but said: The bottom line is that isnt good enough... The public deserve better.

A spokesman for Sir Sadiq said: Everyone in London should feel safe and be safe. Backed by record funding from City Hall, the police are working around the clock to catch mobile phone thieves, with operations to tackle street robbers as well as the handlers and organised criminal groups driving criminality in our communities.
The Royal Navy is searching for a crew member who has gone missing off the coast of Ireland.

An individual went missing in the Atlantic between Tory Island, Co Donegal, and Eagle Island, Co Mayo, off the north-west coast of Ireland, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said.

An MoD spokesman told The Telegraph: Following an incident involving an individual from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary off the coast of Ireland, the Royal Navy is assisting in a search and rescue operation led by the Irish authorities with assistance from the RNLI.

The crew member was last seen at around 10.30pm on Friday, and the Irish Coast Guard received a distress call before 9am on Saturday. The Irish Coast Guard, the Irish Air Corps, the RNLI, the naval vessel and others are involved in the search.

Malin Head Coast Guard are co-ordinating a search for the missing crew member in the sea off the north-west coast between Tory Island, Co Donegal and Eagle Island, Co Mayo, an Irish transport spokesman told PA Media.

The search from the air is being conducted by the Coast Guards fixed-wing plane Rescue 120F, based in Shannon airport, Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 118, based in Sligo, and the Irish Air Corps plane, CASA 284.

A search is also being co-ordinated at sea by the UK Naval support vessel and three RNLI all weather lifeboats, based at Ballyglass, Arranmore Island and Lough Swilly. Other vessels of opportunity are also involved in the search.

Storm Claudia, which has largely affected Wales but also raised alerts for parts of Ireland, has caused flooding in parts of the region. On Friday night, the Met Office issued a yellow warning for persistent and heavy rain and ended at midday on Saturday.

The Telegraph contacted the Irish Coast Guard for further information.

Elsewhere, a man was rescued after his cabin cruiser capsized and he was spotted clinging to its upturned hull.

Members of the public dialled 999 after noticing the man about 100 metres off Holborn Head near Scrabster in Caithness, Scotland, at about 2pm on Saturday.

The coast guard said that Thurso RNLI all-weather lifeboat went to the scene and rescued him. It is thought the man, who was not wearing a life jacket, was in the water for 20 to 30 minutes.

The man was taken to Caithness General Hospital by ambulance.
A child was fatally shot following an argument between two drivers along Interstate 215 in Henderson, Nevada, on Friday. (KSNV)

An 11-year-old Nevada boy on his way to school Friday morning was fatally shot in a road-rage incident over position on a congested Las Vegas-area freeway, authorities said.

Tyler Matthew Johns, 22, was arrested at the scene of the shooting on charges of open murder and discharging a firearm at a vehicle, Henderson police said.

"We lost a life today that we didnt have to lose, Police Chief Reggie Rader told reporters. An 11-year-old was on his way to school, and this senseless act took his life.

Authorities said the shooting happened around 7:30 a.m. on Interstate 215 westbound in Henderson, a city adjacent to Las Vegas to the southeast.

The two drivers became involved in a road-rage incident when they began jockeying for positions, trying to pass each other on the congested freeway, Rader said.

One car passed the other on the shoulder of the freeway, known as the Las Vegas Beltway, he said, and both drivers got into an argument through their rolled down windows.

Our suspect then produced a handgun and fired one round at our victim vehicle, tragically striking an 11-year-old passenger who was sitting in the back seat of that vehicle, he said.

The child's stepfather then rammed the other car, causing both to stop, and a passing Las Vegas police officer was flagged down and took the suspect into custody, Rader said.

The suspect was the only person in the incident with a gun, Rader said.

Johns was jailed without bond Friday night, according to online Henderson records.

It was not immediately clear if Johns had an attorney. A phone number for relatives who might speak on his behalf could not be found in online records Friday night.

Rader on Friday called for drivers to be patient, saying, "We have an obligation to look out for each other."

"The holidays are coming up, and we usually have congestion and tempers run high. It is not worth it to engage in this type of behavior, on either party," he said.
Another blast of winter weather to bring snow to the Northeast

A storm plunging southward out of Canada this weekend is bringing yet another round of winter weather to the Northeast that will transport cold air, whiten landscapes, introduce a period of gusty winds and produce slower travel across the region.

Temperatures into early week will follow a downward trend, with many locations returning to the 30s and 40s during the daytime hours.

Northwest winds blowing across the warm waters of the Great Lakes will increase in intensity as the weekend goes on, which will not only make AccuWeather RealFeel Temperatures plummet, but the stronger winds can also push the heaviest lake-effect bands of snow farther inland.

AccuWeather.com

The highest concentrations of accumulating snow will be east and southeast of lakes Huron, Erie and Ontario later this weekend into the start of the week.

Lake-effect snow returns in full force to the Northeast

Snow showers will continue to spread southeastward off the Great Lakes on Monday. Some snow bands that develop can be rather narrow stripes at times and could produce a tight corridor where inches of snow could fall.

"Despite the recent cold snap, the Great Lakes are still quite warmer than average. As the next bout of cold air blasts over the lakes into Monday morning, we will see a rinse and repeat of the heavy snow bands that impacted the eastern Great Lakes earlier in the week," stated AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Chad Merrill.

Merrill added that, "The heaviest squalls will blanket areas east of Erie, Pennsylvania, and between Syracuse and Oneonta, New York, with 3-6 inches. A few spots can end up with double-digit snowfall totals."

AccuWeather.com

The worst times for travelers may be on Monday morning, particularly across northwestern and central Pennsylvania and western and central New York. Visibility could be sharply reduced at times, especially in the heaviest snow bands.

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The areas impacted by the heaviest snowfall will be highly dependent upon the wind direction. Even small changes in wind direction could mean lower snowfall totals spread out over a more widespread area, while a consistent wind out of the northwest could produce an unwavering lake-effect band with totals in the double digits over a concentrated selection of counties.

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.
Judge James E. Boasberg stands for a portrait at E. Barrett Prettyman Federal Courthouse in Washington, DC on March 16, 2023. - Carolyn Van Houten/The Washington Post/Getty Images

A divided federal appeals court sided with the Trump administration on Friday in a case over the presidents use of the Alien Enemies Act in deportation matters  but it did not fully snuff out a lower court judges efforts to punish those who ignored previous orders halting the presidents use of the law.

The DC Circuit Court of Appeals on Friday declined to reinstate an order from US District Judge James Boasberg that found probable cause exists to hold administration officials in criminal contempt for violating his prior orders to temporarily stop using the law to deport alleged Venezuelan gang members.

The Friday appeals court ruling is the latest blow to Boasbergs efforts to hold accountable the administration officials who didnt follow his orders earlier this year.

Nearly three months ago, a three-judge panel of the appeals court wiped away Boasbergs contempt ruling from April. Now, the entire appeals court has decided to keep that ruling intact.

But the courts decision does not fully tie Boasbergs hands. Because of the way the appeals court ruled this summer  and the courts decision on Friday to not disturb that ruling  Boasberg is able to move forward with his fact-finding inquiry around the officials involved in the matter, and several members of the court went out of their way to make that point clear Friday.

The district court remains free to require the government to identify the decision makers who directed the potentially contemptuous actions and to carefully consider next steps, three appeals court judges wrote in a statement respecting the courts decision.

Lee Gelernt, an American Civil Liberties Union attorney representing the migrants at the center of the case, said the courts latest ruling allows us to go back before Judge Boasberg and present all of the new evidence from the whistleblower that the government deliberately violated the courts order not to hand over the Venezuelan men to El Salvador.

Earlier this year, an ex-Justice Department lawyer alleged in a whistleblower complaint that a then-top DOJ official told his colleagues in March that the administration intended to ignore court orders as part of the governments aggressive deportation effort.

In court proceedings this summer, Boasberg, an appointee of former President Barack Obama, raised the whistleblowers claims, saying he would be interested in scrutinizing them should any contempt proceedings before him start back up.

Three judges at the DC Circuit  all of whom were appointed by Democratic presidents  dissented from the courts decision on Friday.

In a stinging dissent penned by appeals court Judge Florence Pan, the appointee of former President Joe Biden skewered the Trump administrations meritless appeal of Boasbergs ruling from April and her colleagues earlier decision to scramble the judges plans.

Our constitutional system was functioning as designed until a panel of this court improvidently intervened, Pan wrote. The district court was called upon to check an allegedly unlawful policy implemented by the Executive Branch. When the government apparently defied a court order, the district court properly investigated. In merely seeking information about the governments apparent contempt of court, the district court did not violate any nondiscretionary duty nor clearly abuse its discretion.

Boasberg, she said, did nothing wrong.

Notably, Pan also pointed to comments from President Donald Trump earlier this year that were critical of Boasberg as the case was unfolding. Trump called for the judges impeachment, prompting a rare rebuke from Chief Justice John Roberts.

We should not leave in place a ruling that says that the district court erred when it did not, she wrote. We live in a world in which judges face threats and harassment because of their rulings and have been called rogue by government officials who disagree with them. And we cannot overlook that, in response to this very case, the President of the United States called for the district judges impeachment.

She continued: The district court performed its constitutional duty with unwavering integrity and courage, in the face of undue public criticism from the most powerful official in our nation.

In the case before Boasberg, the judge had ordered the administration in mid-March to turn around planes carrying migrants being deported to a notorious prison in El Salvador under the Alien Enemies Act.

The flights continued, and the migrants were held at the prison for several months before being released this summer as part of a prisoner swap with Venezuela.

The Court ultimately determines that the Governments actions on that day demonstrate a willful disregard for its Order, sufficient for the Court to conclude that probable cause exists to find the Government in criminal contempt, Boasberg wrote in a 46-page ruling detailing his decision in April.

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A California National Guard member helps to guard a federal building in Los Angeles, June 10, 2025. Photo: Dave Mason / The Center Square

(The Center Square)  California officials Friday renewed their motion for a judge to end the federalized deployment of National Guard troops in Los Angeles.

Attorney General Rob Bonta and Gov. Gavin Newsom filed the motion for a preliminary injunction in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The action seeks to return the federalized California National Guard troops to Newsoms control. Bonta and Newsom say there's no basis for the Aug. 5 order that extended the federalization of the National Guard.

Newsom is listed as the complaint's plaintiff. President Donald Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth are named as defendants.

There have been soldiers deployed to the Los Angeles area for more than five months, with current orders for continued deployment at least until February 2026 (and subject to further extension), according to the motion. After using isolated incidents of violence in June as a pretext to federalize the California National Guard, Defendants have now implemented a months-long military occupation, without any justification, and with no apparent end in sight.

Even if events in June justified the initial federalization and deployment of the military in Los Angeles, there is no lawful basis for keeping troops there now, the 21-page motion continues. The June violence has long since subsided. Yet still, troops remain in the Nations second-largest city.

In a news release Friday, Bonta accused the Trump administration of extending the federalization of the National Guard without any justification.

Were asking the courts  again  to step in, because this isnt politics, its a threat to our democracy and to the safety of the Americans we serve," Newsom said.

The Center Square reached out Friday to the U.S. Department of Justice and Pentagon for comment, but did not get a response.

In Friday's court motion, Bonta and Newsom accused the Trump administration of treating the president's June 7 memorandum federalizing the National Guard as a blank check to federalize National Guard troops and send them anywhere in the U.S.

The motion later says, Approximately 200 members of Californias National Guard are currently hundreds of miles away, in another State, hindering their capacity to respond to emergencies within California. That's a reference to 200 troops who were initially deployed in Los Angeles and are now in Oregon. Another 14 troops were originally sent from California to Oregon but are now stationed in Illinois.

The Trump administration initially deployed about 4,000 federalized California National Guard troops and 700 Marines in Los Angeles after protests against the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrests turned violent in June.

The motion said the Trump administration's decision to move 214 troops to other states shows it knows there's no need to federalize National Guard troops in California.

In September, U.S. District Court Judge Charles Breyer ruled against Trumps deployment of the California National Guard and Marines. Breyer, who was appointed by President Bill Clinton, ruled the military could continue to guard federal facilities but could not be used for law enforcement. Breyer said the federal use of National Guard for crowd control and set up protective perimeters and traffic blockades violates the Posse Comitatus Act, the 1878 federal law that prohibits the use of the U.S. military to enforce domestic law.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit in September blocked Breyer's stay of the deployment. But on Oct. 29, the same court ruled the U.S. District Court for Northern California has jurisdiction in the case.

The Posse Comitatus Act allows Congress to pass laws to use military in case of domestic unrest, protection of federal property and enforcement of some federal laws and court orders, according to an abstract on a 1987 Journal of Criminal Justice article. The U.S. Department of Justice published the abstract on its website, ojp.gov.

Newsoms office has also argued about costs. It said Trumps deployment of the California National Guard in Los Angeles is costing taxpayers nearly $120 million. The office said the figure was provided by the California National Guard at the governor's request.

The Secretary of Wars Office told The Center Square in September that the Department of War would have no cost figures until after the mission is completed.
Officials in Charlotte, North Carolina, are preparing for a looming federal immigration crackdown that they described on Friday as an invasion, with the city pledging to stand up for migrants against the federal raids.

Local leaders encouraged Charlotte residents to protest peacefully and record agents' actions from a distance, condemning the Trump administration's actions in targeting migrants during sweeps in other cities across the country.

"We are living in the strangest of times," Mecklenburg County Commissioner Susan Rodriguez-McDowell, the granddaughter and wife of immigrants, said on Friday. "A time when a felonious reality TV personality is occupying the White House. Unfortunately, we have seen this movie before, and now they want to film an episode of the 'Shock and Awe' show here in our city."

The leaders came together a day after Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden announced that federal officials notified him that U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents would begin an immigration enforcement operation in the community by Saturday or early next week.

North Carolina City Declares Itself A 'Fourth Amendment Workplace' To Protect Illegal Immigrants From Ice

Officials in Charlotte, North Carolina, are preparing for a looming federal immigration crackdown that they described as an invasion.

The community is now gearing up for the types of federal actions seen in other cities, including Chicago and Los Angeles, where agents raided local businesses, churches and other venues targeting migrant residents.

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"Weve seen what has taken place in other cities across this country when the federal government gets involved," Democrat state Rep. Jordan Lopez said. "We have seen the undisciplined agents pointing weapons at unarmed civilians, the indiscriminate rounding up of civilians who are sleeping in their homes in the middle of their night in Chicago. We have seen the worst of law enforcement."

Local and state officials said they have received no formal notification from the president's administration about an operation for Charlotte. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has affirmed that it does not have the authority to enforce federal immigration laws and is not involved in planning or carrying out the operations.

Volunteers are being trained by local groups on how to protest while safely documenting any attempts to perform a migrant sweep and notifying migrants of their rights as they prepare for the federal crackdown.

Hector Vaca, training and immigrant justice director for the group Action NC, said the community is responding to an "invasion" and "racist campaign of terror" by the federal government.

President Donald Trump has targeted Democrat-led cities for migrant sweeps as part of his mass deportation agenda. His administration earlier this year reversed a Biden administration rule that prohibited raids in sensitive areas such as churches, schools and hospitals.

A sign in Spanish that reads at top: "Know Your Rights" is displayed outside a restaurant storefront, Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Trump has also sent the National Guard into Democrat-run cities, including Chicago, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., to support immigration agents and respond to anti-ICE protests, although the deployment of the troops has prompted legal challenges by state officials.

Democrat Gov. Josh Stein argued on Friday that the "vast majority" of people detained in the federal sweeps have no criminal convictions, including some who are American citizens.

"If you see any inappropriate behavior, use your phones to record and notify local law enforcement, who will continue to keep our communities safe long after these federal agents leave," Stein said. "Thats the North Carolina way."

Council member-elect JD Mazuera Arias, a Colombian who grew up in the U.S. and became a naturalized citizen in 2021, said he knows all too well about fearing a knock at the door and promised that local resources and tax money will not be allocated toward immigration enforcement operations. The Democrat said sweeps in other cities have been about "quotas" and "control" rather than public safety or locking up hardened criminals.

Federal Judge Rules Trump's Portland National Guard Deployment Unconstitutional In Permanent Injunction

North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein noted that the "vast majority" of people detained in the federal sweeps have no criminal convictions, including some who are American citizens.

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"Our Queen City will not become a staging ground for fear," the incoming councilman said. "We will not confuse cruelty with safety. And we will not allow the politics of intimidation to define who belongs here."

Cameron Pruette, executive director of Charlotte's Freedom Center for Social Justice, encouraged residents to shop at immigrant-owned businesses and to "peacefully and prayerfully and with moral clarity take action in this moment."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.





Original article source: Charlotte promises to resist pending federal immigration raids: 'Campaign of terror'
Shipping containers from a Chinese state-owned group are seen stacked at the Port of Los Angeles in California last month. - Frederic J. Brown/AFP/Getty Images

As US duties on Chinese imports spun higher and higher earlier this year, Derek Wang braced for major disruption.

With US orders ground to a halt, Wang, 36, who sells intelligent cookware out of southern Chinas Guangdong province, looked elsewhere to fill the gap. After finding new buyers in Brazil, Japan, Malaysia and Cambodia, he learned what he describes as a key lesson: Nothing is more important than the markets close to us.

Stories like Wangs have played out across Chinas vast economy where businesses, large and small, scrambled to fill the void after temporary triple-digit duties  and the threat of their return  upended Chinese exports to the worlds wealthiest market.

The result has been a coup for Chinas trade juggernaut.

Instead of seeing exports falter on lost US business, the worlds largest manufacturer has driven them deeper into other markets around the world  building on the countrys global economic footprint and hedges companies made during Trumps first trade war.

Employees work at a factory in China's Guizhou province last month. - Yang Jian/VCG/Getty Images

The resilience gave Beijing confidence in its months-long negotiations with the US, which came to a head in October when leaders Donald Trump and Xi Jinping met and agreed to a truce that whittles new tariffs on Chinese goods down to 20%.

But the push also puts China on track to eclipse last years gaping nearly $1 trillion global trade surplus  a balance thats irritated governments around the world and sparked Trumps trade war in the first place.

There were already questions about the sustainability of Chinas export blitz before data released last week showed exports unexpectedly contracted by just over 1% year on year in October  the first downturn since February.

Whether China can maintain its level of exports to the rest of the world  and expand back into the US market after the recent truce, is a consequential question for the worlds second-largest economy as it continues to struggle with lackluster demand from its own consumers, but doubles down on manufacturing as its economic cornerstone.

Chinas trade resilience

So far this year, the shift in Chinas export flows has been stark  and sent a clear message that, for China, the US is not irreplaceable.

While exports to the US dropped nearly 18% in the first 10 months of this year versus that period in 2024, they were up more than 7% to the European Union, 14% to countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, and 26% to Africa, according to Chinese customs data released last week. Overall, exports rose 5.3%.

In Southeast Asia, that trade was buoyed by leaps in the export of machine tools, automobile parts and computer components. In Africa, construction machinery and green technologies have been key exports, analysts say, while parts of Latin America have seen significant growth in electric vehicles, chemical fertilizers and electronics, among other areas.

This trade engine was humming before the start of the trade war.

Already the worlds manufacturing superpower, Chinas rapid climb to dominate green technologies like EVs, lithium-ion batteries, and solar panels, had driven up demand from countries looking to convert to renewable energy cheaply  and concern from those accusing China of unfair competition with subsidized products.

Vehicles wait to be loaded on a ship for export at Nanjing Port in eastern China earlier this month. - Fang Dongxu/VCG/Getty Images

Some of those goods  like EVs and solar panels  were already effectively barred from the US market by high tariffs put in place in recent years, and Chinas exporters have been building out trade across developing markets.

(China) has prepared quite well for this, said Jacob Gunter, who heads the economy and industry program at the MERICS think tank in Berlin.

It wasnt some miracle of foresight thinking to predict that the United States would escalate over time its trade and technology conflict with China, but China was (expanding markets) before the trade and tech war began, and ever since its started, that trend has really accelerated, he said.

Even as many companies had to scramble to divert business from the US market in recent months, experts say the groundwork for the pivot was laid by Beijings decades-long push to build out its global economic footprint  expanding trade while also bankrolling ports, terminals and highways under Xis Belt and Road Initiative.

Its also relied on an earlier push from Chinese firms to move supply chains and production centers out of China to areas from Southeast Asia to Mexico  where goods are shipped from China to be fabricated or finished.

Thats the key for the so-called resilience of Chinese exports, said Yao Yang, dean of the Di-shui-hu Advanced Finance Institute at the Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, who noted these investments began during Trumps first term.

Without those outbound investments, I dont think that China can cope with the shock.

A two-way street?

But Beijings trade resilience has also raised fears that a deluge of Chinese goods into other markets will wipe out domestic industries.

Countries have been hitting back with probes on Chinese goods, with the US and India, as well as Mexico and Brazil, together raising 79 anti-dumping and countervailing probes against Chinese goods in the first half of this year  a significant uptick from recent years before 2024, according to World Trade Organization data.

Theres also calls for exports or factory relocations to come alongside greater levels of local investment, knowledge transfer and more balanced trade.

For some Latin American countries, deindustrialization is a big problem when Chinese companies start to invest  because they bring just the assembly, they dont do technology and knowledge transfer, said Diego Rodriguez, logistics and industrial practice leader at Americas Market Intelligence, a research firm in Miami, noting countries like Brazil are pushing back against this.

In Southeast Asia, the stronger flow of goods is a concern, according to Rebecca Sta Maria, former executive director of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation secretariat.

We feel as if we are being swamped. I remember one economy saying a tsunami of Chinese goods coming into ASEAN. Of course thats a concern to us, said Sta Maria, now the director of the Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs in Kuala Lumpur. But it wasnt all negative, she added, because small and medium-sized businesses were using high-end components from China, making their products more competitive.

A train departs Kunming in southwestern China's Yunnan province earlier this year bound for Laos and carrying goods for markets in Thailand, Singapore and Bangladesh. - Peng Yikai/Xinhua/Getty Images

I know that the Chinese government has acknowledged (the concern) to some extent, so now its how do we manage this?

Beijing denies accusations that its goods are flooding markets. Its officials have instead taken Trumps global trade shake-up as an opportunity to tout China as the reliable trade partner, while pledging to open its vast market wider to exporters and investors from around the world.

Observers say some countries may also be unwilling to throw up barriers to China at a time when they are facing higher tariffs on their own goods into the US  thats especially when there is true demand in many countries.

In Africa, its a two-way street, said Capital Economics emerging market analyst David Omojomolo.

These countries (in Africa) want to industrialize theres a massive electricity gap across the continent  solar panels are cheap and Chinas got overcapacity  they need to send them somewhere, so of course, Africa is going to benefit.

Getting squeezed

Even still, manufacturers across China have struggled to fill the hole left by the drop in US exports.

Factory employees in recent months have described to CNN canceled shifts, mandatory furloughs and lost jobs as employers deciding to relocate out of China.

Garment maker Zhang Peipei in Jiangxi province told CNN she has been able to keep her 20-year-old business afloat through smaller revenue streams coming from outside the US. But she says the unpredictable US tariff policies have already caused serious and irreversible long-term impact without clear alternatives.

With her business now hanging on whether she can cut a deal with buyers in Mexico, Zhang said she didnt feel very confident, even despite a potential return of some US business now, since the US has been shaking up the foreign trade scene, the whole world is chaotic right now.

And there are questions about whether Chinas robust trade data this year showed true demand or a short-term push to get goods out of the country to stockpile them or ship them to the US via a third country with lower tariffs.

Workers produce hat orders in the production workshop of a factory in China's Jiangsu province last month. - Costfoto/NurPhoto/Getty Images

An analysis of US and Chinese trade data from April to July  including the height of the trade uncertainty  suggests that just less than a quarter of Chinas trade diverted from the US was likely still ultimately ending up in the US, while the rest of the goods were finding alternative markets, according to Gerard DiPippo, a senior researcher at the RAND China Research Center.

Still, lm not all that confident that the final demand for all those (other) exports going to the Global South is actually going to be remaining in those countries, he said, noting that exporters could also be building up offshore inventories as they waited to see how countries trade talks with the US played out.

The big caveat, he added, is that the margins of Chinese exporters are almost certainly getting squeezed  theyre maintaining high volumes in real terms, but theyre doing it by cutting prices.

The recent truce between Xi and Trump leaves tariffs on Chinese goods at around 47% on average, but could see the return of more US business.

But as uncertainty remains across the global economy, a driving focus for those in China, both in the factories and the government, will be on expanding how much the countrys own consumers buy domestic-made goods.

Thats the case for Wang, the cookware maker in Guangdong. Despite finding new clients outside the US, he is also making another pivot, directing more of his business to Chinas domestic market, and less of it outside, he said.

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A record number of fossil fuel lobbyists have been accredited to attend the UNs Cop30 climate summit in Brazil, with more than 1,600 linked to oil, gas and coal interests taking part, new analysis shows.

The figure means roughly one in every 25 delegates in Belem represents the fossil fuel industry  the highest proportion ever recorded at the annual UN climate negotiations and a 12 per cent increase from last years summit in Baku, Azerbaijan.

The findings, published by the non-profit Kick Big Polluters Out (KBPO) coalition, show that industry lobbyists outnumber nearly every national delegation, with only host country Brazil sending more participants overall.

Campaigners say the scale of fossil fuel representation highlights the need for formal conflict-of-interest rules to protect the UN climate process from corporate capture.

Fossil fuel lobbyists now outnumber delegates from the 10 most climate-vulnerable countries combined and represent nearly 50 times the size of the Philippines delegation, even as the country recovers from destructive typhoons.

Its common sense that you cannot solve a problem by giving power to those who caused it, said Jax Bongon from the non-profit IBON International in the Philippines.

Yet three decades and 30 COPs later, more than 1,500 fossil fuel lobbyists are roaming the climate talks as if they belong here.

Leaders attending the COP30 UN Climate Summit pose for a group photo in Belem, Brazil (AP)

The analysis, based on a line-by-line review of the UNs provisional participant list, shows that major trade associations continue to serve as key entry points for fossil fuel influence. The International Emissions Trading Association brought 60 representatives, while the International Chamber of Commerce and the Brazilian Business Council for Sustainable Development also sent large delegations.

At least 164 lobbyists were registered under government badges, granting them access to closed-door sessions. Frances official delegation includes 22 fossil fuel representatives, Japans delegation lists 33, and Norway brought 17.

Campaigners said the scale of representation undermines the credibility of the talks, which are meant to accelerate action on phasing out fossil fuels and scaling up finance for vulnerable nations.

Cop30 has become a marketplace for corporate greenwashing, not a platform for climate justice, said Ranjana Giri from the Asia Pacific Forum on Women, Law and Development. Behind the pledges are false solutions that protect profit rather than people.

However, in response, the Brazilian presidency hosting Cop30 said the summit reflects the diversity of Brazilian society.

The Conference will be attended by different sectors of civil society and the business community, as the ecological transition requires everyone's involvement, a spokesperson told The Independent.

Brazil has a tradition of promoting broad social participation in international forums, and this principle continues to guide the organisation of COP30, with a focus on climate justice and inclusion.

The UN climate secretariat introduced new disclosure requirements this year for non-government participants, compelling them to state their affiliations and funding sources. However, the rules do not apply to delegates registered under government or party overflow badges  a gap that KBPO says allows companies to continue influencing negotiations from within national delegations.

UNFCCC spokesperson said: As of 2023, measures have been taken to enhance transparency so that it's clearer who participates at COP. We have done this in consultation with civil society and other stakeholders, who have welcomed them in our discussions.

Just as no single COP can be expected to solve the climate crisis overnight, making further concrete improvements is an ongoing journey, noting that national governments have sole authority to decide who is in their delegations."

The findings come as 2025 is projected to be among the hottest years on record, with global carbon emissions still rising and several countries facing extreme weather linked to climate change.

Since last years COP in Baku, oil and gas firms have approved nearly $250bn in new fossil fuel projects, according to research cited by the coalition.

Host country Brazil has billed Cop30 as an implementation COP focused on translating commitments into action, including on climate finance and adaptation. But the extent of industry access has raised concerns among campaigners that progress on phasing out fossil fuels could again be weakened by lobbying pressure.

If Cop30 is indeed the COP of truth, the Presidency and the UNFCCC Secretariat should now commit to reviewing and strengthening participant disclosure rules ahead of future summits: it is time to ensure integrity and accountability to restore trust, Brice Bohmer, Climate and Environment Lead at Transparency International, said.
Ukrainian Presdient Zelensky Holds News Conference After Meeting With President Trump At The White House (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been embroiled in a massive corruption scandal that threatens to undo his grip on power and tarnish the anti-corruption image he ran on.

The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine is probing into Timur Mindich, Zelenskyys business partner who allegedly laundered $100 million from Ukraines nuclear energy company and other fraudulent activities, according to the New York Times on Friday. So far, Zelenskyy has not been directly implicated in the investigation, but has taken action to curtail the independence of corruption investigators.

Ukraine is still being rocked by Russian strikes on critical infrastructure, while Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown little appetite for peace negotiations. (RELATED: Putins Right Hand Man Gives Middle Finger To Trumps Peace Efforts)

US President Donald Trump welcomes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as he arrives for a meeting at the White House in Washington, DC, on October 17, 2025. (Photo by TOM BRENNER/AFP via Getty Images)

Two government ministers assigned to the corruption case resigned at Zelenskyys request, while Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko has requested sanctions on Mindich, who fled the nation on Monday before investigators searched his home.

Ukrainian opposition party European Solidarity have called for a vote of no-confidence to remove Zelenskyy from power, according to the NYT. The allegations involving the nuclear energy company are especially poignant to Ukrainians who suffer from regular blackouts amid Russian strikes.

The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not respond to the Daily Caller News Foundations request for comment.

Zelenskyy has publicly called for the prosecution of those involved despite their proximity to the president. Mindich allegedly held great sway behind the scenes of Zelenskyys government, with the opposition party regularly accusing the magnate of pulling the strings of Zelenskyys cabinet appointments.

The Ukrainian president has enjoyed a lionized reputation amid the war with Russia, and initially ran on an anti-corruption platform in the 2019 elections. Zelenskyy has been hailed by numerous Western leaders as a guardian of democracy against an autocratic Russia.

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Costco is being sued for allegedly falsely advertising its Kirkland tequilas as being made with 100% Blue Weber agave.

According to the proposed class action lawsuit filed in the Southern District of Florida on Oct. 31, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance testing confirmed that the tequilas contained so much sugar that they wouldnt qualify as tequila.

Specifically, the federal lawsuit states that the tequilas contain material amounts of ethanol not derived from agave plants, and, as such, they were adulterated with ethanol other than that obtained from Blue Weber agave."

USA TODAY has contacted Costco for comment on Nov. 14, but has not received a response.

What does the lawsuit mean for consumers?

Typically, shoppers would pay premium prices for the spirit with the 100% Blue Weber agave designation. Without it, shoppers may have opted for another product or paid less.

If plaintiff and others similarly situated had known the truth of the ingredients in the products, they would not have purchased the products or would have paid less for them, the lawsuit states.

Bottles of Kirkland Signature Tequila Blanco are displayed at a Costco Wholesale store on July 19, 2025, in San Diego, California.

What does the law say?

Mexican law requires tequila to be made from at least 51% blue agave, but tequilas made with 100% blue agave are considered higher quality. The lawsuit claims Costco is violating laws in both Mexico and the United States because the tequila allegedly contains ethanol from other sources. Ethanol is a form of alcohol created by fermenting plant sugars, the core chemical process used to make most alcoholic drinks.

Tequila can only legally be made in Mexico, per the Denomination of Origin, which ensures the spirit is made from the blue agave plant and produced in designated areas in regions across the country, according to Patron.

"This legal protection prevents other countries or regions from producing and marketing their versions of tequila, safeguarding the authenticity and quality of the Mexican spirit," the premium tequila brand said.

Costco sells three types of tequilas: Blanco, Reposado, and Anejo. A USA TODAY search on Nov. 14 showed the tequilas remained available for purchase on Costcos website.

What is the lawsuit against Costco seeking?

The proposed class action lawsuit accuses the company of negligence, negligent misrepresentation, unjust enrichment and violating Floridas Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act, which prohibits practices that seek to deceive or take advantage of consumers.

The lawsuit also states that bottles of agave spirits, which include tequila and mezcal, that fail to provide accurate information in interstate commerce violate the Federal Alcohol Administration (FAA) Act. According to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, the FAA Act "provides for regulation of those engaged in the alcohol beverage industry, and for protection of consumers," including ensuring the integrity of the industry.

Attorneys for the plaintiff, Ariel Glazerare of Florida, are seeking a jury trial and certification for the proposed class.

Michelle Del Rey is a trending news reporter at USA TODAY. Reach her at mdelrey@usatoday.com

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Costco sued for allegedly falsely advertising its Kirkland tequila
Bruce Glikas/FilmMagic Elizabeth Franz in 2010

NEED TO KNOW

Tony-winning actress Elizabeth Franz died on Nov. 4 at age 84

Franz's husband, Christopher Pelham, confirmed her death

Pelham told The New York Times that Franzs cause of death was cancer and complications from medications

Elizabeth Franz, known for her atypical and decorated take on Linda Loman in Death of a Salesman, has died. She was 84.

The Tony-winning actress, born Elizabeth Jean Frankovitch, died on Nov. 4 at her home in Woodbury, Conn., her husband, screenwriter Christopher Pelham, confirmed to The New York Times for a story published on Nov. 15.

Franzs cause of death was cancer and a severe reaction to drugs being used to treat her, The Times reported, citing Pelham.

PEOPLE reached out to a representative for Franz for comment on Nov. 15, but did not receive an immediate response.

The Ohio-born actress was perhaps best known for take on Linda, the wife of Brian Dennehys Willy Loman, in a 50th anniversary production of Death of a Salesman, which earned her a Tony Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play in 1999.

Joan Marcus/Showtime/Kobal/Shutterstock Brian Dennehy and Elizabeth Franz in the TV production of 'Death Of A Salesman' (2000)

Franzs spin on the Death of a Salesman character marked a departure from the characters typically defeated demeanor. She took a more assertive  and more sensual  approach, earning high praise from playwright Arthur Miller.

In a 1999 Times feature about the 50th anniversary production  which won four Tonys, including Franzs  Miller said that Franz had discovered in the role the basic underlying powerful protectiveness, which comes out as fury, and that in the past, in every performance I know of, was simply washed out.

On Linda and Willy's sexual bond," as Franz once described it in an interview, the late Death of a Salesman playwright told The Times: I always assumed was there, but here it is far more emphasized  correctly.

Elaborating on the bond, which she brought to the forefront with her memorable performance, Franz told The Times it was something she couldnt deny. You can say anything because you know in the end you're going be in that bed, curled up and having the most wonderful conversations, she said of the characters. When she's curled up in his arms and she's singing to him  you can't tell me that isn't a very sexual moment.'

Evan Agostini/Liaison Elizabeth Franz at the 1999 Tony Awards

While discussing Death of a Salesman for the 1999 Times feature, Franz also opened up about her upbringing in Akron, Ohio.

Her father was a tire factory worker and her mother was a waitress who suffered from mental illness. Her behavior frightened Franz during her childhood, she told the outlet. My grandmother would hide me in her closet, she recalled at the time.  I remember holding onto my father and saying, She'll come back. 

Alongside Dennehy, Franz later reprised the role of Linda in a TV adaptation of Death of a Salesman in 2000. She earned a Primetime Emmy nomination for the reprisal.

Franz previously received a Tony nomination at the 1983 show for her performance as Matthew Brodericks onstage mother in Brighton Beach Memoirs. She later earned another nod at the 2002 ceremony for Mornings at Seven.

Randy Holmes/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Elizabeth Franz on 'Grey's Anatomy' (2012)

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.

Franz appeared in other Broadway productions throughout her career, including The Cherry Orchard, The Octette Bridge Club, The Cemetery Club, Getting Married and Uncle Vanya. Her final role on Broadway was Aunt Ev in The Miracle Worker, which ran from March to April 2010.

She also appeared in films, including the 1995 Sabrina remake and Christmas With the Kranks, and had various TV credits, including a memorable 2004 episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and guest appearances on Gilmore Girls, Roseanne and Greys Anatomy. Her final onscreen role came in 2015 film Take Me to the River.

In addition to Pelham, Franz is survived by her brother, Joe. She was previously married to famed character actor Edward Binns prior to his death in 1990.



Read the original article on People
A South Carolina killer who taunted police by writing a message in blood after murdering three men in a week has become the third inmate executed by firing squad in the state this year.

Stephen Corey Bryant, who once scrawled "catch me if u can" on a wall using the blood of 62-year-old victim Willard "T.J." Tietjen, was executed on Friday, Nov. 14, for the 2004 murder. He was pronounced dead at 6:05 p.m.

Bryant's executioners strapped him to a chair and placed a hood over his head. Three volunteer corrections officers shot him simultaneously from 15 feet away.

Bryant's attorneys had argued that he should be spared from execution because he was sexually abused as a child and had brain damage caused by his mother using drugs and alcohol while she was pregnant. The South Carolina Supreme Court rejected those arguments earlier this week and allowed the execution to proceed.

"Mr. Bryant is the seventh man South Carolina has executed in fourteen months," one of his attorneys, Bo King, said in a statement after the execution. "Each was forced to make the barbaric and unconscionable 'choice' between bloody, burning, or protracted deaths. Each execution has been brutal and shameful. None has made South Carolina safer or more just.

USA TODAY reached out to the South Carolina Attorney General's Office for a response late Friday.

Bryant is the 43rd inmate to be executed in the U.S. in 2025, the most executions carried out in a single year since 2012. He's also only one of six men executed by the firing squad in modern U.S. history.

Here's what you need to know about Bryant's execution.

South Carolina's firing squad chair is pictured behind its electric chair, which is covered, at the Broad River Correctional Institute in Columbia, South Carolina. Death Row inmates can choose among firing squad, electric chair and lethal injection for their executions. If they don't select one, the default is the electric chair.

News media witnesses describe execution

When the curtain was drawn for the three members of the news media acting as witnesses, Bryant was already strapped down to the execution chair, they said in a news conference afterward.

Bryant's feet were shackled to the chair, his arms were strapped behind him and to the chair, and his head also was strapped down, they said. Bryant declined to say any last words, and thats when a hood was placed over his head. Within about a minute, three corrections volunteers shot him, they said.

A post-it-sized bullseye over Bryant's heart flew halfway across the room after the shots were fired and blood pooled across his chest.

One of the witnesses, Jeffrey Collins with the Associated Press, said that Bryant was breathing shallowly for about 30 seconds after the shots rang out and that roughly 40 seconds after that, he seemed to either spasm or cough once before going completely still.

He said that three of Tietjen's family members witnessed the execution and held hands throughout the process. Their only visible reaction was flinching when the shots were fired, he said.

Bryant's last meal was spicy mixed seafood stir-fry over rice, fried fish over rice, two egg rolls, three stuffed shrimp, two candy bars, German chocolate cake and Pepsi, a corrections spokeswoman said.

What was Stephen Bryant convicted of?

In October 2004, Stephen Bryant was on probation for burglary when he went on an eight-day killing spree that left three men dead and one critically wounded.

The last man murdered was Willard "T.J." Tietjen, who was shot nine times in his home just east of Columbia after allowing Bryant to come in on Oct. 11, 2004.

That afternoon, Tietjen's wife and daughter kept trying to call him but he wasn't answering. At 5:30 p.m., someone picked up his cellphone but it wasn't Tietjen. It was Bryant.

"T.J. is dead," he told Tietjen's wife of 39 years, Mildred Tietjen, who testified during the sentencing phase of Bryant's trial, according to The Item newspaper of Sumter, South Carolina.

When Tietjen's daughter, Kimberly Dees, called her dad's number, Bryant again picked up and said: "I'm having a wonderful day, how are you?" before he told her he had killed her dad three hours earlier, Dees testified.

When police arrived to Tietjen's home, they found he had been shot nine times and that the killer used his blood to write a taunting message on the wall: "Victem 4 in 2 weeks. Catch me if u can." Tietjen's eyes had been burned with cigarettes and candles had been lit around his body, court records say.

Bryant also left a handwritten note in a Manila envelope on Tietjen's chest: "I am the light. I am so bright. I am the sun. Yours truly, The Prowler," it said. A note on the table said: "Good luck finding me. LMFAO," The Item reported.

Earlier that week, Bryant had shot three other men, two fatally. They included his friend, 36-year-old Clifton Gainey, and a stranger, 35-year-old Christopher Burgess. A 56-year-old man named Clinton Brown was shot in the back and left for dead but survived.

Bryant pleaded guilty to all his crimes. A judge sentenced him to life in prison for the murders of Gainey and Burgess, and the death penalty for Tietjen's.

Who was Willard "T.J." Tietjen?

Tietjen was a devoted dad, grandpa and husband who had retired from the Air Force after being stationed all over the world, from the Philippines and Germany to Thailand and Oregon.

His daughter testified that her dad took her to plays and concerts, and taught her to fish, hunt, roller skate, appreciate nature, and respect her country, The Item reported in 2008.

"We spent a lot of happy hours together," Dees said, adding that he imparted a very important life lesson to her: "The value of life. All life has value ... We're all part of God's creation."

On the stand, Dees recalled how her 5-year-old son comforted her over the death of the family patriarch they both adored.

"He told me he would always be with me and stay with me so nobody could ever murder me," she said, according to The Item.

Meanwhile Mildred Tietjen testified that she married her husband just three months after meeting him in December 1964 on a blind date when he was stationed in Iowa, The Item reported.

"He had such a zest for life," she said, before recalling his last words to her: "I love you."

Why was Stephen Bryant executed by firing squad?

South Carolina allowed Bryant to choose among three execution methods: firing squad, electric chair or lethal injection. If he hadn't chosen, the default method is electric chair.

The firing squad has been rarely used in the United States, though it appears to be gaining momentum as states say they're struggling to obtain the drugs needed for lethal injections.

Before this year, Utah was the only state to use the method, and had only done so three times: in 1977, 1996 and 2010. Utah had planned to use the method on an inmate in August but the Utah Supreme Court stopped it over concerns about his dementia.

South Carolina legalized firing squads in 2021 and began using the method this year, executing two inmates in April and May.

A defense attorney who witnessed the last such execution in April described it as "barbaric" and "a horrifying act that belongs in the darkest chapters of history." State officials defend the method as constitutional.

On top of Utah and South Carolina, Mississippi, Oklahoma and Idaho have legalized firing squads. Idaho, which approved firing squads in 2023, is set to make them the state's default method next year.

When is the next execution?

The next execution in the U.S. is that of Richard Barry Randolph in Florida for the 1988 murder of his neighbor, Minnie Ruth McCollum, who was raped, beaten, and stabbed in East Palatka, about 45 miles east of Gainesville.

If it moves forward, Randolph's execution will be the 44th in the U.S. this year, a number that hasn't been seen since 2010.

Amanda Lee Myers is a senior crime reporter who covers the death penalty for USA TODAY. Follow her on X at @amandaleeusa

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: South Carolina serial killer 3rd to die by firing squad this year
A burning car after it was targeted by a Russian drone in the frontline town of Kostiantynivka in Ukraine's Donetsk region on November 12, 2025. - Iryna Rybakova/Press Service of the 93rd Kholodnyi Yar Separate Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces/Reuters

On the frontlines in Ukraine, changing weather has brought treacherous conditions  but also opportunities  for both sides.

Although swathes of fog are limiting the use of drones by both the Russians and Ukrainians, both sides have also managed to turn the mist to their advantage.

On Friday, Russian forces exploited the low visibility to build a pontoon across the Vovcha river in the south of Ukraine, according to the unofficial DeepState website, which monitors battlefield developments in the country.

They managed to get at least 10 vehicles across, which then dispersed in the village of Dachne, according to DeepState.

The fog is very thick, and enemy forces continue to accumulate, said one Ukrainian soldier, Stanislav Buniatov, on Telegram.

In Ukraines Donetsk region, fog has hampered drone operations for both sides in the hotly contested town of Pokrovsk and added an element of randomness to the battlefield.

Donbas fog. Its good to move around in fog because its harder for drones to hit you, but its also hard for us, and it all turns into some kind of backgammon (game) on this land, said one Ukrainian soldier in the area.

The fog has helped a Ukrainian assault regiment carry out raids in recent days into parts of Pokrovsk where Russian forces are present darting across the rail lines that bisect Pokrovsk, according to military analyst David Axe.

Apartment buildings destroyed and damaged by Russian military strikes in Kostiantynivka on November 12, 2025. - Iryna Rybakova/Press Service of the 93rd Kholodnyi Yar Separate Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces/Reuters

A resident is inspecting the damage after a Russian drone attack in Kramatorsk, Ukraine, on November 11, 2025. - Jose Colon/Anadolu/Getty Images

Ukrainian drone operator Yevhen Strokan wrote on X Thursday: Firefights are breaking out in the most unexpected places (especially after fog).

The Ukrainians usually use surveillance drones to track Russian troops movements but the weather is interfering with that.

Fog, wind and rain significantly degrade drone operations, enabling Russian infiltration through Ukrainian positions, analyst Michael Kofman, who has recently visited Ukraine, posted on X Friday.

On a porous and fluid frontline, Axe said on his Substack Trench Art this week, the bad weather and resulting gaps in overhead surveillance by Ukrainian as well as Russian drones only intensify the confusion.

That can help the Russians, he added, whose goals require them (to) probe and advance until they eventually gain firm control of new territory, but it can also benefit the Ukrainians when they want to conduct raids into Russian-held territory or rescue surrounded units.

Russias numerical superiority

The weather has also helped the Russians in the Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia, where, according to a statement from the Russian defense ministry Saturday, they have seized the village of Yablukove as well as two nearby villages.

The Ukrainian military said Saturday that there had been intense assault operations and massive artillery shelling by the Russians in parts of the Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk regions in southern Ukraine.

It said there had been nearly 40 clashes over the past day, adding that enemy losses amounted to nearly 300 personnel and 58 vehicles.

Ukrainian units had been withdrawn from one village in Zaporizhzhia to positions more favourable for defense, the Ukrainian military said.

Ukrainian police officers observe an area on their way to evacuate civilians from the frontline town of Huliaipole, in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region, on November 14, 2025. - Reuters

Earlier this week, the commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian military, Oleksandr Syrskyi, said the situation in parts of the south had significantly deteriorated, with the enemy taking advantage of its numerical superiority in forces and resources to take three villages.

Russian troops are now about 90 kilometers (55 miles) from the regional capital, the city of Zaporizhzhia, and within 10 kilometers of the town of Huliaipole, whose capture has been a long-standing goal for Moscow.

The towns military administration said another 34 civilians had been evacuated Friday. There is danger at every turn, but people are risking their own lives to help with the evacuation, it said on Facebook.

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Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes speaks from a podium. Photo: Cameron Arcand / The Center Square

(The Center Square) - A lawsuit has been filed against Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes.

Phoenix-based Goldwater Institute brought the lawsuit. Attorneys want Mayes to release alleged price-fixing complaint records from a 2024 lawsuit that Mayes filed against nine residential landlords and the RealPage software company.

At the time of filing her lawsuit, the attorney generals office said the parties were conspiring to illegally raise rents for hundreds of thousands of Arizona renters in the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas.

Goldwater Institute attorney Stacy Skankey said the institute does not take a position on the merits of the underlying case. However, when reviewing the announcement and complaint made by Mayes, the institute discovered there was no mention of actual consumer complaints, Skankey said.

It just says very broadly and generally that consumers were harmed, Skankey told The Center Square. So when the attorney general is using their consumer protection enforcement powers, Arizonans need to know whether consumers are actually being protected by these actions.

The lawsuit against the Democratic attorney general was filed Wednesday in Maricopa County Superior Court. The county is home to Phoenix, the state's capital.

Skankey said attorneys want to get information about that lawsuit regarding who complained. Goldwater also wants to know if there were any unsolicited complaints from the public.

In April 2024, Goldwater filed a public records request. According to Skankey, Goldwater did not get a response until January of this year.

Even then you know it was a denial, we tried to follow up and get communication before filing suit, but here we are, now in November 2025, and we still dont have our answers, and so we brought this lawsuit, said Skankey, litigation director of the Goldwater Institutes American Freedom Network. The institute is a nonprofit that focuses on liberty issues.

Skankey added Goldwater is not asking for much, only numerical data.

It should be very easy to comply with, and yet, you know after this long, drawn-out process, here we are now having to demand that these be produced, said Skankey.

The Center Square sought comment from the Attorney Generals Office and was told that staffers responded to the Goldwater Institutes request for records. Mayes' office said it produced all documents required to be disclosed under Arizona law.

Attorney General Mayes is proud to have taken on major corporate landlords and RealPage for allegedly orchestrating a price-fixing scheme that drove up rents for families across Arizona, said Richie Taylor, communications director for Attorney General Mayes.

She will continue to aggressively pursue this case to hold landlords and RealPage accountable for their anticompetitive conduct," Taylor told The Center Square.

Taylor added that the Goldwater Institute is free to follow the case as it moves through the courts, just like anyone else.

Skankey later told The Center Square her team disagrees with the Attorney Generals Office's claim that it complied with the Arizona public records law.

Our records request for the total number of consumer complaints regarding RealPage was denied, and follow-up communications went unanswered, said Skankey. Taxpayers deserve transparency, and without transparency, officials lose the publics trust.
Rows of data center equipment and server racks inside an industrial facility. Photo: Ismail Enes Ayhan / Unsplash

(The Center Square)  Google on Friday announced its largest investment in any state in the country: $40 billion in Texas to build AI infrastructure, including data centers.

Alphabet and Google CEO Sundar Pichai joined Gov. Greg Abbott in Midlothian on Friday to make the announcement. U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy James Danly, Google Global Head of Data Center Energy Amanda Peterson Corio, and other Google leaders and state officials also attended.

The investment is part of Google's "Investing in America" initiative designed to boost cloud and AI infrastructure, build data center facilities, develop programs to strengthen energy capacity and affordability, and expand workforce training in the state.

"This is a Texas-sized investment in the future of our great state," Abbott said. Texas is the epicenter of AI development, where companies can pair innovation with expanding energy. Google's $40 billion investment makes Texas Google's largest investment in any state in the country and supports energy efficiency and workforce development in our state. We must ensure that America remains at the forefront of the AI revolution, and Texas is the place where that can happen.

They say that everything is bigger in Texas  and that certainly applies to the golden opportunity with AI, Pichai said. The $40 billion investment we announced today will bring three new data center campuses to the state to power the new era of AI innovation. This investment will create thousands of jobs, provide skills training to college students and electrical apprentices, and accelerate energy affordability initiatives throughout Texas.

Weve called Texas home for more than 15 years, Google said in a separate announcement. The $40 billion investment in Texas goes through 2027 towards building new cloud and AI infrastructure, including new data center campuses in Armstrong and Haskell counties.

Google says it remains committed to responsibly growing its infrastructure by bringing new energy resources onto the grid, paying for costs associated with its operations, and supporting community energy efficiency initiatives.

In Texas, this includes a new $30 million Energy Impact Fund to scale and accelerate energy initiatives, it says. Google plans to produce more than 6,200 megawatts of new energy generation and capacity through power purchase agreements its making with energy developers.

In Haskell County, this includes building a new data center next to a new solar and battery storage plant.

Its also investing in workforce training programs to help engineers build new technology and infrastructure. A new electrical training ALLIANCE, with Googles support, will train existing electrical workers and train more than 1,700 apprentices in Texas by 2030. Doing so will more than double the projected pipeline of new electricians in the state, Google says.

Our latest investment in Texas is designed to not only support Texas workforce and infrastructure, but to ensure the U.S. retains the technical backbone to lead the world in AI, Google said.

Its Investing in America initiative was launched to encourage American innovation by funding technical infrastructure, research and development, expanded energy capacity for an AI-driven economy, and domestic workforce development. The initiative will unlock substantial economic opportunity for American businesses  advancing scientific breakthroughs, fortifying cybersecurity for the U.S., and creating new career opportunities for millions of Americans, Google says.
Relatives of Mohammad Shafi Parray, a Kashmiri civilian who was killed when a cache of confiscated explosives detonated inside a police station, mourn as they wait for his body outside his residence in Srinagar, Indian controlled Kashmir, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin)

SRINAGAR, India (AP)  A cache of confiscated explosives detonated inside a police station in Indian-controlled Kashmir, killing at least nine people and injuring 32 others, police said on Saturday.

The blast occurred in the Nowgam area of Srinagar, the regions main city, late Friday when a team of forensic experts and police were examining the explosive material, said Nalin Prabhat, the regions police director-general. He ruled out any foul play, saying it was an accident.

The dead included six police and forensic officials, two civil administrators and one civilian, authorities said. Some of the injured were in critical condition.

The huge blast ripped through the police station, setting it and multiple vehicles on fire. According to the news agency Press Trust of India, small successive explosions prevented immediate rescue operations.

A deadly car explosion

The police station blast came days after Mondays deadly car explosion in New Delhi, which killed at least eight people near the citys historic Red Fort. Indian officials called it a heinous terror incident carried out by anti-national forces. The car blast happened hours after police in Kashmir said they had dismantled a suspected militant cell operating from the disputed region, arresting at least seven people, including two doctors from Indian cities, and seizing a large quantity of bomb-making material in the city of Faridabad, near New Delhi.

Indian security agencies have since carried out a series of raids in Kashmir as part of their investigation into the car blast, questioning hundreds while detaining scores others.

Indian police said Saturday they used DNA to identify the car's driver and that he was a Kashmiri doctor. Government forces blew up his family home in the southern district of Pulwama on Thursday night, officials said.

In the past, troops have demolished homes of suspects they accuse of being tied to militants fighting against Indian rule in Kashmir as a punishment.

Stored explosives

Police had brought the explosive material seized in Faridabad to Kashmir as part of their investigation and were kept securely in an open area at the police station, where the investigation that led to the suspected militant cell began last month, according to Prabhat, the top officer.

Prabhat said a team of experts was taking samples for forensic investigation when the blast occurred, calling it an accidental explosion.

Any other speculation into the cause of this incident is unnecessary, he said.

The blast could be heard from miles away in Srinagar, locals said. Some of the victims' body parts were recovered from nearby houses, over 100 meters (328 feet) away from the police station. Multiple houses also suffered damage.

The explosion produced a deafening roar that rattled houses and flung open windows closed tight, Bashir Ahmed, a resident, told The Associated Press.

Relatives of killed civilian protest his death

Nearly a dozen relatives of Mohammad Shafi Parray, killed in the blast, assembled at his home in Nowgam and marched in protest to the police station, chanting: We want justice.

One of Parry's relatives, who didn't give her name, said the deceased, a tailor by profession, was summoned by the police Friday night. Why did (the police) take him?" she shouted.

A local police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity in keeping with departmental policy, said the tailor had been called to the station to stitch bags for storing explosive material samples.

India and Pakistan each administer a part of Kashmir, but both claim the territory in its entirety.

Militants in the Indian-controlled portion of Kashmir have been fighting New Delhis rule since 1989. India insists the Kashmir militancy is Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Pakistan denies the charge, and many Kashmiris consider it a legitimate freedom struggle.
An 11-year-old Nevada boy being driven to school by his stepdad Friday morning was shot dead by a gun-toting maniac during a horrifying road-rage attack on a jam-packed freeway, authorities said.

An 11-year-old Nevada boy being driven to school by his stepdad was shot dead by a gun-toting maniac during a horrifying road-rage attack on a jam-packed freeway Friday morning, authorities said.

Tyler Matthew Johns, 22, was busted after he allegedly fired one fatal shot that struck the young boy seated in the back seat of the small hybrid SUV during the heated clash around 7:30 a.m. on Interstate 215 in Henderson, 16 miles south of Las Vegas, according to the Henderson Police Department.

We lost a life today that we didnt have to lose, Police Chief Reggie Rader told reporters Friday.

Tyler Matthew Johns, 22, was arrested and charged with open murder for allegedly killing an 11-year-old boy during a road-rage attack. Henderson Police Department

An 11-year-old boy was on his way to school, and this senseless act took his life. I need everybody to be patient on our roadways. We have an obligation to look out for each other.

Rader said the deadly confrontation began when the two hotheaded drivers started jockeying for a lane after merging, weaving past each other on the congested freeway, also known as the Las Vegas Beltway.

One car swerved past the other on the shoulder, prompting both drivers to roll down their windows and scream at each other before Johns allegedly pulled a handgun and opened fire on the victims car.

The deadly crash erupted around 7:30 a.m. on Interstate 215 in Henderson while the young boy was being driven to school. KTNV Channel 13 Las Vegas, /YouTube

The childs stepfather then rammed into the accused gunmans four-door sedan, forcing both vehicles to stop in the middle of the road  where both men jumped out and erupted into another explosive altercation, Rader said.

A passing Las Vegas cop broke up the fight and hauled the suspect into custody.

Life-saving measures were performed on the unidentified boy, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police said the child was sitting in the back seat of the car when the suspect allegedly fired one single round. KTNV Channel 13 Las Vegas, /YouTube

Johns was charged with open murder and discharging a firearm into a vehicle, police said.

He is being held at Henderson Detention Center on a $20,000 bond, jail records show.

The holidays are coming up and we usually have congestion and tempers run high, Rader stressed, adding, It is not worth it to engage in this type of behavior  on either party.

Henderson Police Chief Reggie Rader urged drivers to be more patient on the roadways as the holidays approach. KTNV Channel 13 Las Vegas, /YouTube

I would rather you be stuck in traffic and late for your destination than have to go to a funeral for a loved one or potentially spend the rest of your life in prison, he added.

We have to do better as a city, we have to do better as a community, and we have to do better as human beings because we cant allow this to continue to happen.
A woman pushes a shopping cart filled with fresh produce while browsing the frozen food aisle at a supermarket. Photo: Gustavo Fring / Pexels

(The Center Square) - Departments and programs across Nevada, along with full SNAP benefits, have resumed after the end of the 43-day federal government shutdown.

But officials are uncertain when a major airport in Las Vegas will return to its full slate of flights.

One of the most fiercely debated points of the shutdown, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, returned to November's full payments to Nevadans, as of late Thursday night.

The benefits, which were formerly known as food stamps, totaled $33 million from the federal government. The full payments came a day after the countrys longest-ever government shutdown ended Wednesday night.

DSS has been monitoring the shutdown closely, said Robert Thompson, administrator of the Nevada Division of Social Services, which distributes the state's SNAP benefits.

When DSS received word that partial benefits would be issued based on 65% of maximum SNAP benefit allotments, we immediately began working, under the full support from Governor Lombardo and his team, on system changes that would be needed to issue 100% SNAP benefits," Thompson said. "This allowed us to quickly pivot and ensure benefits were loaded onto EBT cards as fast as possible.

All electronic benefit cards across Nevada were fully loaded Thursday night with SNAP benefits for November, DHS Public Information Officer Kristle Muessle told The Center Square.

Roughly 500,000 people across Nevada use SNAP benefits, with more than 62% belonging to a family with children and more than 41 percent in working families, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. In total, the federal government gave Nevadans $1.01 billion in SNAP benefits last year.

On the same day the government shutdown ended, Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo called Nevadas legislators into a special session. The states 36th special session, which had been teased for months, was set to consider state-level funding to make up for SNAP, according to Nevada Democratic leaders last week. With the return of federal SNAP funds, local funding is no longer in discussion, but the special session is dealing with 20 or so other bills.

Roughly 1.4 million federal employees were furloughed - sent home without pay - or ordered to keep working without wages until the shutdown ended, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center. After the shutdown ended, operations returned to normal on Thursday, Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought said in a Wednesday letter.

Backpay for federal employees is legally required at the earliest date possible, according to a 2019 law.

But last month during the shutdown, President Donald Trump suggested not all federal employees will be paid for their work. For the most part, we're going to take care of our people, Trump said in an Oval Office press conference on Oct. 7. There are some people that really don't deserve to be taken care of, and we will take care of them in a different way.

Airports will likely take longer to return to normal operations as air traffic controller numbers dwindled in the shutdown. Transportation Security Administration workers and other airport employees were furloughed or forced to work without pay across the country as the shutdown dragged on into November.

Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, deemed one of 40 high-traffic airports by the Federal Aviation Administration, was forced to keep air traffic reduced by 6% on Wednesday. Cancellations and delays were expected to continue until, the trend lines are moving in the right direction, said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy Wednesday.

The FAA did not specify when normal operations could be expected. A spokesperson for Harry Reid International Airport told The Center Square that the airport did not know when traffic restrictions would be lifted.
MoMo Productions - Getty Images

New research looks into how the retina and vascular system are connected.

Retinal blood vessels can act like a window into heart health and overall health, including lifespan and aging markers, a study found.

Experts weigh in on the findings and what it may mean for your health.

All bodily systems are connected and help inform one another; some link in ways that may surprise you. A new study highlights the under-discussed relationship between your eyes and heart, and how the retina and vascular systems, in particular, may indicate overall health, aging markers, and lifespan.

Meet the Experts: Jacqueline Bowen, O.D., president of the American Optometric Association; Sergiu Darabant, M.D., cardiologist at Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, part of Baptist Health South Florida; Benjamin Bert, M.D., board-certified ophthalmologist at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA; and Ferhaan Ahmad, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Cardiovascular Genetics Program at the University of Iowa.

The study was published in ScienceAdvances in October and looked at retinal imaging and genetic data from over 74,000 people and explored how their networks of tiny retinal blood vesselsalso known as the retinal microvasculaturemay be a window into the bodys circulatory system, explains Jacqueline Bowen, O.D., president of the American Optometric Association, that could help doctors predict, detect, prevent, and treat heart disease.

Researchers found that people with a simpler or less branched microvasculature tracks with more inflammation, higher risk of heart disease and stroke, and shorter lifespan, explains Sergiu Darabant, M.D., cardiologist at Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, part of Baptist Health South Florida. Why? Simple retinal blood vessels are less resilient and can signal reduced blood flow or damage, which may be a warning sign for conditions that affect the circulatory system, says Dr. Bowen.

Conversely, people with more complex, branchy tree-like vessels tended to live longer and have healthier hearts and more adaptive vascular systems, Dr. Bowen adds. Researchers also pinpointed specific genes and blood proteins, specifically MMP12 and the IgG-Fc receptor IIb, that likely play a part in these outcomes by contributing to inflammation that comes with aging.

In short, the findings demonstrate the power of using the retinal microvasculature to diagnose other systemic diseases, says Benjamin Bert, M.D., board-certified ophthalmologist at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA.

What are MMP12 and IgG-Fc receptor IIb proteins?

These proteins are known to contribute to chronic, low-grade inflammation that comes with age, also known as inflammaging, per Dr. Bowen, which raises risk for many age-related diseases. Specifically, MMP12 helps regulate tissue remodeling but can also contribute to age-related damage in blood vessels, while IgG-Fc receptor IIb is tied to immune and inflammatory processes that influence how we age, Dr. Bowen says.

Studies have shown that inflammation can accelerate damage to arteries and lead to heart attacks, peripheral artery disease, and strokes, explains Ferhaan Ahmad, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Cardiovascular Genetics Program at the University of Iowa. It is possible that treatments directly working on these proteins may improve cardiovascular health. However, considerable research remains to be conducted to validate these proteins as targets for treatment.

How may eye and heart health be connected?

The retina is the only place in the body where blood vessels can be non-invasively, directly seen and measured without the need for a biopsy, our experts say, and it houses the same network of blood vessels (a.k.a. vasculature) that are in the brain and the kidneys, which can tell a lot about a persons health. For that reason, dilated eye exams [where doctors use eye drops to expand the pupil and make the eye structure more visible] have, for years, provided a way to examine this vasculature and allow clinicians to diagnose patients with underlying cardiovascular diseases like diabetes or hypertension, explains Dr. Bert.

Because the eyes blood vessels reflect whats happening elsewhere, studying them also helps optometrists spot early signs of metabolic changes linked to diseases affecting the endocrine, autoimmune, neurological, and other systems, says Dr. Bowen.

Also, its worth noting that the retinal arteries are exposed to the same stresses as the rest of the blood vessels in the body, Dr. Ahmad adds. Therefore, their health status usually reflects the health of the rest of the blood vessels in the body.

The bottom line

Dont skip your annual eye examsfor the health of your vision and, potentially, your heart and other vital systems. Optometrists can detect more than 270 serious health conditions and identify personalized prevention plans to help patients improve health outcomes, says Dr. Bowen. Dilation and advanced retinal imaging may be an excellent way to evaluate for hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol, and other conditions. Plus, its a great preventative health care tool to embrace. Because the images can be stored and compared over time, they allow optometrists to monitor subtle changes and detect issues earlier, Dr. Bowen says.

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Hwang Seong-yeol, a South Korean rice farmer, watches crops damaged by a fungal disease that spread during an abnormally rainy autumn at his rice paddy in Seosan, South Korea, Monday, Oct. 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon)

SEOSAN, South Korea (AP)  Hwang Seong-yeol stood at the edge of a golden field, watching nervously as a combine harvester crawled through his rice, churning up mud and stalks. Its steady hum filled the damp autumn air as grain poured into a truck waiting at the other end of the muddy paddy.

It was the final day of what Hwang said was one of his toughest seasons in three decades of farming. He and other farmers feel helpless against increasingly erratic weather that they link to climate change and damage to their crops. It has complicated their work and cast uncertainty over their futures.

Hwang is one of five South Korean farmers who recently sued the state utility Korea Electric Power Corporation and its power-generating subsidiaries, alleging that their reliance on coal and other fossil fuels has accelerated climate change and damaged their crops.

The lawsuit raises questions about whether power companies role in driving climate change, and the resulting agricultural losses, can be quantified. It is the first of its kind in South Korea, said Yeny Kim, a lawyer with the Seoul-based nonprofit Solutions for Our Climate, who is handling the case.

The case underscores the challenges South Korea, a manufacturing power that industrialized long after the Western nations now pressuring others to abandon fossil fuels, faces in transitioning to cleaner energy.

Unstable weather causes agricultural disasters

Hwang's fields are on a reclaimed coastal plain along South Koreas western sea, where glimmering waterways crisscross dark, rich soil and flocks of migratory geese drift overhead, moving like a giant, living quilt.

A remarkably rainy September and October followed a bitterly cold spring that stunted plant growth. Summer floods caused further damage before the wet autumn bred fungal disease.

Hwang would have preferred to harvest in drier weather but had to do so sooner as relentless rains pushed rice stalks into the soil, causing the ripe grains to sprout. That day in late October was only the second dry day after 18 straight days of rain.

Its really unsettling  we know how much rice we should normally get from 30,000 pyeong (25 acres) of land, but the yield has been steadily declining every year, said Hwang, who expects this years harvest to be 20% to 25% below normal.

We began to question why its always the farmers  who havent done anything wrong  that end up suffering the consequences of the climate crisis. Shouldnt we be demanding something from those who are actually causing it?

Farmers are inherently vulnerable" to climate change, said Kim, the lawyer.

In an annual climate report in April, South Koreas government detailed how a year of extreme weather events in 2024, the countrys hottest year ever, triggered a series of agricultural disasters of heavy summer rains that destroyed thousands of hectares (acres) of cropland, followed by weeks of intense heat that wrecked still more crops, mostly rice.

Lawyer says KEPCO group is liable for 0.4% of global climate damage

Kim and her colleagues decided to file the lawsuit, which represents plaintiffs from across South Korea, after speaking with Hwang and others at farmers markets.

They say KEPCO, which holds a monopoly on electricity transmission and fully owns its subsidiaries, should bear some blame for the destabilized weather, citing what they say are excessive carbon emissions and a lagging transition to renewable energy.

From 2011-2022, the companies produced about 30% of South Koreas greenhouse gas emissions and roughly 0.4% of global emissions, based on Kim's analysis of publicly available data.

Therefore, they should also bear 0.4% of the responsibility for the farmers losses, Kim said.

The lawsuit seeks initial damage claims of 5 million won ($3,400) per client, an amount likely to be adjusted as the case proceeds. The plaintiffs are also symbolically seeking 2,035 won ($1.4) each to urge the government to phase out coal power plants by 2035, ahead of its 2040 target.

Renewable energy accounted for only 10.5% of the national energy mix in 2024, and the five KEPCO subsidiaries relied on coal for more than 71% of the electricity they produced that year, according to government data.

KEPCO told The Associated Press it considers carbon reduction a key responsibility, citing its goal of cutting emissions 40% by 2030 from 2018 levels. But it declined to comment further on the lawsuit, saying it cannot share information that could influence the verdict.

Experts say mounting debt, now at over 200 trillion won ($137 billion), that accumulated over decades of government policies that kept electricity rates low for households and industries, limits the utility's ability to expand and modernize the power grid or invest in renewable energy.

Uncertain impact of a largely symbolic lawsuit

Yun Sun-Jin, a professor at Seoul National University, said the lawsuit has symbolic value but questioned whether blame could fall solely on KEPCO, given that everyone benefits from its cheap electricity.

It would be difficult to prove the utility directly caused farm losses, when climate change is a global problem, she said.

It does draw attention to South Korea's need for a more effective approach to renewable energy, Yun said, including deregulating solar investments, expanding sources such as offshore wind, and ending KEPCOs monopoly over electricity transmission to encourage other competitors with diverse technologies.

South Korea is expected to reach its target of 32.95% renewable energy by around 2038  far slower than the 33.49% average in 2023 among developed economies in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, according to the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis.

Some experts, including Yun, warn that South Koreas slow shift to renewable energy could hinder its ambitions in advanced semiconductors and artificial intelligence, as its tech giants face global pressure to operate on clean power.

Climate change and carbon neutrality are not just environmental concerns  they are economic issues, ultimately about jobs and our survival, Yun said.

From tangerines to rice: a shared threat

The impact of extreme weather resulting from climate change is far reaching in South Korea.

Farmers now face higher costs and must use more labor to produce the same or lower yields.

Ma Yong-un, an apple farmer in the southeastern town of Hamyang, said he is using more pesticides as pests and diseases become harder to control due to prolonged heat and humidity. The apples that thrived in cooler weather during his father's days are less plentiful and tasty, he said.

From tangerine farmers on Jeju island to strawberry growers in Sancheong to the southeast, farmers are trying to devise ways to survive.

For the first time since he began farming in 2011, Ma coated all the fruit on his 2,200 trees with a mixture of copper sulfate and lime to prevent fungal infections and skin damage from intense sunlight.

He began to think seriously about climate change in 2018, when a heavy April snowstorm damaged flower buds, leading to one of his worst harvests. Farming is becoming harder each year and he constantly wonders how much longer he can carry on.

I think about that every day, said Ma, who is raising two teenage boys with his wife. The biggest concern is my children.
President Trump late Friday announced he is pulling his endorsement and support of Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) and would support a primary challenge against her  a major escalation of their growing beef after months of the House Republican criticizing fellow GOP members and the commander in chief himself.

I am withdrawing my support and Endorsement of Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, of the Great State of Georgia, Trump wrote on Truth Social, adding that despite his record, all I see Wacky Marjorie do is COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN!

Trump in the post called Greene a ranting lunatic and that she has gone Far Left.

The un-endorsement came days after a discharge petition to force a vote on a bill directing the Department of Justice to release files related to Jeffrey Epstein got enough signatures to succeed. Greene was one of four Republicans to sign on, in spite of fierce objections of Trump.

Greenes split from the president she had once adamantly supported started months earlier, after Trump discouraged Greene earlier this year from running for statewide office in Georgia, which Trump confirmed in the post.

It seemed to all begin when I sent her a Poll stating that she should not run for Senator, or Governor, she was at 12%, and didnt have a chance (unless, of course, she had my Endorsement  which she wasnt about to get!),Trump said in the post.

She has told many people that she is upset that I dont return her phone calls anymore, but with 219 Congressmen/women, 53 U.S. Senators, 24 Cabinet Members, almost 200 Countries, and an otherwise normal life to lead, I cant take a ranting Lunatics call every day.

Greene in a response on X said that Trump lied about me  I havent called him at all.

She shared a text message she sent Trump earlier on Friday encouraging him to lean into the Epstein files issue, noting former President Clintons connections to Epstein.

Apparently this is what sent him over the edge. The Epstein files. And of course hes coming after me hard to make an example to scare all the other Republicans before next weeks vote to release the Epstein files, Greene said.

But really most Americans wish he would fight this hard to help the forgotten men and women of America who are fed up with foreign wars and foreign causes, are going broke trying to feed their families, and are losing hope of ever achieving the American dream, she added.

Shortly before making the post, Trump told reporters while traveling to his Mar-a-Lago resort that he was open to endorsing someone in primary bid against Greene. On Truth Social, he went further, writing that the right person runs, they will have my Complete and Unyielding Support.

Something happened to her over the last period of a month or two where she changed, I think, politically, he told reporters on Air Force One. I think that her constituents arent going to be happy. Already I have people calling me, they want to challenge her to a race in her district in Georgia.

While Greene forged her political identity in Congress as a fierce loyalist of President Trump, she has put herself on the opposite side of many of the presidents positions since he has been back in the White House.

Greene over the summer opposed Trumps strike on Iran, and became first Republican in Congress to dub Israels actions in Gaza a genocide. She signed the Epstein discharge petition. And she went against Republicans shutdown messaging, saying the GOP have no plan to address health care.

Greene told The Hill in an interview in October that she is 100 percent the same person today as I was when I ran for Congress.

At the end of his post, Trump took a swipe at Greene for appearing on The View last week, during which she said that it is OK if Trump does not love her back right now.

She has gone Far Left, even doing The View, with their Low IQ Republican hating Anchors, Trump said.

Updated at 9:42 p.m. EST

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
donald trump,irs,donald korb,gina raimondo,department of treasury (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

President Donald Trump withdrew the nomination of Treasury Department pick Donald Korb Friday after questions surfaced about his past donations to Democrats.

Trump announced he was withdrawing Korbs nomination in a post to Truth Social.

Please be advised that I am withdrawing the nomination of Donald Korb to be Assistant General Counsel in the Department of the Treasury. Thank you for your attention to this matter!

Republicans previously voiced concerns about Trumps Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Chief Counsel nominee, Korb, pointing to his past political contributions to Democrats. These donations included several thousand dollars to former Rhode Island Governor and Biden Commerce Secretary, Gina Raimondo, from 2013 to 2019. (RELATED: EXCLUSIVE: Republicans Voice Concerns About Trump IRS Nominee Donald Korb Linked To Democrat Donations)

While governor, Raimondo helped lead a 2020 coalition of progressive groups aimed at advancing liberal priorities and defeating Trump in crucial battleground states. As Commerce Secretary, she reportedly pushed to fully allocate agency funds before leaving office and protect left-wing spending ambitions, and she also hosted the departments first Equity Town Hall.

Korb formerly served as head of Sullivan & Cromwells Tax Controversy Practice after serving as IRS Chief Counsel from 2004 to 2008. The firm has reportedly given nearly $2.7 million to Democrats, and it ranked as the third-largest donor among U.S. law firms to Democratic candidates.

Earlier in his career, Korb served at the IRS as an attorney advisor in the Office of Chief Counsel and then as assistant to the commissioner of internal revenue, where he played a key role in helping the IRS implement the Tax Reform Act of 1986.

He has also donated to several Republicans over the years, including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell and Maine Sen. Susan Collins. Still, his connections to Raimondo and his previous work under former President George W. Bush have made some conservatives skeptical, raising questions about whether he would truly prioritize depoliticizing and reforming the IRS. (RELATED: EXCLUSIVE: Top IRS Official Terminated After Public Tirade Against Trump Administration)

Korb testified before the Senate Finance Committee in October, where Democratic Rhode Island Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse joined the committees Republican majority in voting to send his nomination to the full Senate.
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, right, films a social media post on a combine with farm owner Tyler Everett during a farm tour in Lebanon, Ind., Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

OMAHA, Neb. (AP)  New data the Agriculture Department released Friday created serious doubts about whether China will really buy millions of bushels of American soybeans like the Trump administration touted last month after a high-stakes meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

The USDA report released after the government reopened showed only two Chinese purchases of American soybeans since the summit in South Korea that totaled 332,000 metric tons. That's well short of the 12 million metric tons that Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said China agreed to purchase by January and nowhere near the 25 million metric tons she said they would buy in each of the next three years.

American farmers were hopeful that their biggest customer would resume buying their crops. But CoBank's Tanner Ehmke, who is its lead economist for grains and oilseed, said there isn't much incentive for China to buy from America right now because they have plenty of soybeans on hand that they have bought from Brazil and other South American countries this year, and the remaining tariffs ensure that U.S. soybeans remain more expensive than Brazilian beans.

We are still not even close to what has been advertised from the U.S. in terms of what the agreement would have been, Ehmke said.

Beijing has yet to confirm any detailed soybean purchase agreement but only that the two sides have reached consensus on expanding trade in farm products. Ehmke said that even if China did promise to buy American soybeans it may have only agreed to buy them if the price was attractive.

Trump said his team spoke with Chinese officials today and they assured the White House they would be purchasing more soybeans, but he didn't offer any details of how much.

They're in the process of doing not only a little bit but they'll be doing a lot of soybean purchases, he told reporters.

The Chinese tariff on American beans remains high at about 24%, despite a 10-percentage-point reduction following the summit.

Soybean prices fell sharply by 23 cents to $11.24 per bushel Friday. Ehmke said thats the market being shocked by the lack of Chinese demand that was confirmed in USDA data today. Prices are still higher than they were before the agreement when they were selling for $10.60 per bushel, but the price may continue to drop unless there are significant new purchases.

Before the trade agreement, Trump had promised farmers would receive an aid package to help them survive the trade war with China. That was put on hold during the shutdown, and now it's not clear whether the administration will offer farmers aid like Trump did in his first administration.

American farmers have been through this before after Trump's first trade war with China. The trade agreement China signed with the United States in 2020 promised massive purchases of U.S. crops. But the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted trade between the two nations just as the agreement went into effect. In 2022, U.S. farm exports to China hit a record, but then fell.

Soybean prices are actually still a little higher than they were a year ago even without China's normal purchases of roughly one-quarter of the U.S. crop. That's because this year's soybean crop is a little smaller while domestic demand remained strong with the continued growth in biodiesel production.

But farmers are dealing with the soaring cost of fertilizer, seed, equipment and labor this year, and that is hurting their profits. The Kentucky farmer who is president of the American Soybean Association, Caleb Ragland, has said he worries that thousands of farmers could go out of business this year without significant Chinese purchases or government aid.

Ragland said he's still optimistic that China will follow through on the purchases, but it's hard to be confident in that right now with so few sales reported.

We dont want to assume they wont. But its going to be a wonderful day when we actually deliver those soybeans, and when theres my money in hand and so forth and the transaction's complete, Ragland said.

China is the worlds largest buyer of soybeans. China bought more than $12.5 billion worth of the nearly $24.5 billion worth of U.S. soybeans that were exported last year.

But China quit buying American soybeans this year after Trump imposed his tariffs and continued to shift more of their purchases over to South America. Even before the trade war, Brazilian beans accounted for more than 70% of Chinas imports last year, while the U.S. share fell to 21%, World Bank data shows.

Ragland said that every vender he talks to has told him they are increasing their prices for next year, which will continue to put pressure on farmers.

Were still looking at sharp losses and the red ink as we figure budgets for 26 is still very much in play, he said.

___

AP Writer Didi Tang contributed to this report from Washington.
Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro has urged Donald Trump not to open what he said would be an Afghanistan-style forever war as the US military continues to build up in the region.

Washington has vowed to purge "organized criminal narcoterrorists, US secretary of state Marco Rubio said as it emerged that the most advanced US aircraft carrier - USS Gerald R. Ford - is expected to reach the waters off Venezuela within days.

The Trump administration describes its campaign in South America as a counter-drug operation. CIA operations have been publicly authorized inside the country and boat strikes in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific Ocean have killed over 75 people so far.

No more forever wars. No more unjust wars. No more Libya. No more Afghanistan. Long live peace, said Maduro, Venezuelas 62-year-old authoritarian president who was widely accused of stealing last years election.

Maduro warned Trump against more forever wars like in Afghanistan (AP)

He was speaking to CNN late on Thursday as he pushed his way through large crowds outside the presidential palace in Venezuelas capital of Caracas, on his way to a pro-government rally.

Maduros comments were in response to the news of the arrival of the aircraft carrier, which the US has long used as a tool of deterrence to pressure and influence other nations, often without employing any force at all. They carry thousands of sailors and dozens of warplanes that can strike targets deep inside another country.

US defense secretary Pete Hegseth followed up on Maduros words when he said the Western Hemisphere is Americas neighborhood  and we will protect it. He added that the Southern Command mission would secure the US homeland from the drugs that are killing our people.

Hegseth shared a screengrab on social media which he said showed US military forces conducting a strike on a vessel being operated by Tren de Aragua trafficking narcotics in the Caribbean Sea in on October 23 (US Secretary of Defense Pete Heg)

On Thursday, Hegseth formally named the mission Operation Southern Spear, emphasizing the growing significance and permanence of the military's presence in the region.

Once the Ford arrives, the mission will encompass nearly a dozen navy ships as well 12,000 sailors and marines, strengthening US efforts to pressure Maduro into stepping down.

Rubio also says the US doesn't recognise Maduro as the leader of Venezuela and called the government a "trans-shipment organization" that openly cooperates with those trafficking drugs toward the US.

But when pushed on the US motivations for its military action in Venezuela, he insisted that President Trump was focussed on combatting narcoterrorists.

"That's what he's authorised. That's what the military's doing. That's why our assets are there," he told reporters after meeting his counterparts from the Group of Seven democracies in Canada earlier this week.

A Venezuelan Navy patrol boat sails off the Carribean coast amid hightened tensions with the U.S., in Puerto Cabello (REUTERS)

Some experts say deploying the Ford appears to be geared more toward a government change in Venezuela than drug trafficking.

"There's nothing that an aircraft carrier brings that is useful for combating the drug trade," said Elizabeth Dickinson, the International Crisis Group's senior analyst for the Andes region.

"I think it's clearly a message that is much more geared toward pressuring Caracas."

She added: It has raised a lot of anxieties in Venezuela but also throughout the region. I think everyone is watching this with sort of bated breath to see just how willing the US is to really use military force."
A Louisiana inmate has been apprehended days after he allegedly escaped from jail by throwing a chemical substance at an officer, according to the St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office.

Cecil Michael Stratton, 46, allegedly fled from the Berwick Police Department Jail on Wednesday night while jailers were "securing inmates during lockdown procedures," Berwick police said in a statement.

During a "brief struggle" between Stratton and authorities, a chemical substance was hurled into an officer's face, allowing for Stratton -- and another inmate who has also been recaptured -- to flee, police said.

Berwick Police Department - PHOTO: Officials in Louisiana are searching for escaped inmate Cecil Michael Stratton, who fled from jail after throwing a chemical substance at an officer, according to the Berwick Police Department.

Final escaped New Orleans inmate in custody following 'brief stand-off': Police

After a multi-day search, on Friday night, police were alerted that Stratton had been seen inside a home in Morgan City, the sheriff's office said. Responding authorities found Stratton lying in a boat at a Morgan City business, the sheriff's office said.

Stratton was taken into custody without incident at 12:15 a.m. Saturday, officials said. He was arrested on charges of unauthorized entry of a critical infrastructure, disarming a police officer, battery on a police officer, aggravated battery and simple and aggravated escape, the sheriff's office said.

The other inmate who allegedly fled with Stratton, 22-year-old Brandon Lee Brunet, was apprehended early Thursday morning, authorities said.

Prisoner escapes custody at Sea-Tac Airport in Washington, officials say

Stratton, who is allegedly known to have "violent tendencies," had previously escaped from a prison in North Louisiana, police said.

Stratton's criminal record includes a slew of previous charges, including theft, illegal possession of a stolen property, marijuana possession, attempted first-degree murder and resisting an officer, according to ABC Baton Rouge affiliate WBRZ.
Details about how just debauched Andrew's past was are finally coming to light.MEGA

The scandals keep coming for former Prince Andrew  now Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor  as more details emerge about his alleged parties with numerous hookers during taxpayer-funded trips on behalf of the crown, RadarOnline.com can reveal.

Andrew Lownie, who recently published an eye-opening biography about Andrew and his equally troublesome ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, claimed the fallen ex-royal had a particularly raunchy trip to Hong Kong while serving as a trade envoy for the U.K., as well as a prostitute-filled trip to Thailand.

'Chasing Lots of Women'

Andrew reportedly entertained 40 hookers over four days during a trip to Thailand.MEGA

Andrew served as a trade envoy from 2001 to 2011, allowing him to travel abroad on trips filled with debauchery that the British public wasn't aware of.

In 2001, he is 41, he's having his midlife crisis, and he basically starts chasing lots and lots of women," Lownie described about the former prince, who had been divorced from Ferguson for five years at the time.

The author said that over four days during a trip to Thailand that year, Andrew had "40 prostitutes delivered to his hotel rooms," as he refused to stay in the British embassy to hide his degeneracy, preferring five-star hotels instead.

Andrew Was 'Entertained' All Over the World

Andrew entertained hookers and had sketchy financial deals while still a working member of the royal family.MEGA

"He uses the excuse of his role as Trade Envoy, paid for by the taxpayer, to go off on these trips, but he always puts in two weeks of 'private time.' So, we pay for his holiday and then he goes off and does things," Lownie said of Andrew's perverted proclivities.

"One year, (Andrew) hired the top floor of the Landmark Hotel in Hong Kong and spent the weekend watching porn and had hookers come in," Lownie, the author ot Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York, further claimed.

Randy Andy was also said to have been "entertained" during trips to Mongolia, Kazakhstan, the Bahamas, Laos, and Libya.

'Suitcase Full of Cash'

Andrew allegedly made a series of questionable financial arrangements as a UK trade envoy.MEGA

The son of Queen Elizabeth II also used his position as a trade envoy to line his own pockets.

"He was handed a suitcase full of cash in Kazakhstan," Lownie revealed.

After a trip to the central Asian country in 2007, Andrew turned around and sold the home he owned at the time to Kazakhstan oligarch Timur Kulibayev for an insane profit.

Sunninghill Park, a 12-bedroom country house near Great Windsor Park, was purchased by Kulibayev for an eye-watering, $18million, more than $5million above its value at the time.

Shady Money Deals

Lownie believes the former couple could be prosecuted for 'financial impropriety.'MEGA

While Andrew and Ferguson have been embroiled in the Jeffrey Epstein sex scandal that cost them their royal titles, Lownie believes the former couple's shady financial dealings will be what lands them in deep trouble with the law and facing prosecution.

"He wont go down for sex trafficking," Lownie shared. "It will be for financial impropriety."

The author said Ferguson has been running her own racket, explaining, "She has used charities to make money for herself."

"Shes been basically using charities to make money. So shes gonna be in trouble there," Lownie added.

Ferguson was dropped as a patron by five of her most prominent charities, including the Teenage Cancer Trust, Julia's House, the Natasha Allergy Research Foundation, the British Heart Foundation, and Prevent Breast Cancer, after an email was leaked in September showing the former duchess raving about Epstein in 2011.

It was written a year after Ferguson swore she cut off contact with the sex trafficker, in which she called him "a steadfast, generous, and supreme friend to me and my family."
Kimberly Guilfoyle did not mention Donald Trump Jr. in a new interview.MEGA

Donald Trump Jr. got the cold shoulder from his ex-fiancee Kimberly Guilfoyle in a new interview, RadarOnline.comcan reveal.

Kimberly Guilfoyle Said She 'Had a Very Good Relationship' With Gavin Newsom

Kimberly Guilfoyle said she had a 'wonderful relationship' with Eric Villency.MEGA

Guilfoyle, who is the newly appointed US Ambassador to Greece, sat down for her first interview on Greek television  and, while she discussed her past relationships, she avoided any mention of Trump Jr.

During her appearance, she fawned over her ex-husbands, California Governor Gavin Newsom and Eric Villency, claiming she had a "very good relationship" with Newsom and a "wonderful relationship" with Villency.

"It's a wonderful experience. We have 20 years of friendship," she added of Villency. "What people need to understand about me is that I don't give up. I will stay with you, I will be loyal. I will always be here  you can count on me. And I am proud of that."

Kimberly Guilfoyle and Gavin Newsom Honeymooned in Greece

Kimberly Guilfoyle's honeymoon with Gavin Newsom was 'fabulous,' she said.MEGA

Guilfoyle gushing over her ex-husbands comes days after she joked about the honeymoon she had in Greece with Newsom when meeting with Greek President Konstantinos Tasoulas.

When asked if she'd visited Greece before by Tasoula, Guilfoyle said she had.

"I actually covered the Olympic Games in 2004 for ABC News," she shared. "I also had a honeymoon here in 2004. Fabulous honeymoon but"

Tasoula joked back with her that the honeymoon may have been fabulous but hinted the marriage may not have been.

"We'll work on getting a new husband," Guilfoyle replied.

Kimberly Guilfoyle Addresses Being the Greek Ambassador

Donald Trump chose Kimberly Guilfoyle to be the Greek Ambassador.MEGA

Guilfoyle was confirmed as the Greek Ambassador by the Senate in September.

She noted the two countries have "achieved so much in just a few days" and said the US is looking forward to furthering their relationship.

As for why Donald Trump chose her as the Ambassador, she confessed it's due to them both wanting Greece to be an "energy hub."

"We want to demonstrate that Greece can become the energy hub that will help us counter Russian and Chinese interests," she elaborated. "What we are seeking is energy independence, which will strengthen national defense and national security."

Donald Trump Jr. Is a Contender for the GOP 2028 Republican Candidate

Donald Trump Jr. has had rising poll numbers to be the GOP candidate in 2028.MEGA

While Guilfoyle may have ignored talking about Trump Jr., he recently made headlines when a YouGov survey shows that a large number of young Americans are getting behind Trump Jr. as the dark-horse Republican candidate for the 2028 presidential election.

The poll showed Trump Jr. has strong support in the 18-to-29 and 30-to-44-year-old demographic ranges.

Over a quarter of Republicans and right-leaning independents under 30 years old pegged Trump Jr. as their "ideal" choice to lead the GOP ticket in 2028. This is a 10-point increase from April.

What's more, is 53% of voters aged 18 to 29 and 55% aged 30 to 44 said they would consider voting for Trump Jr. in the next Republican presidential primary.

Regardless of the updated numbers, JD Vance is still the top choice as the 2028 GOP candidate based on current poll data.
Experts have warned the U.S. could be on the brink of a nuclear war after decades of simmering tension.MEGA

Experts have warned the U.S. could be on the brink of a nuclear war after decades of simmering tension with Russia have exploded into an open conflict threatening millions of lives, RadarOnline.com can reveal.

The dire warning comes after President Donald Trump, 79, ordered the testing of U.S. nuclear weapons for the first time in 33-years as deranged despot Vladimir Putin, 73, assembles the world's largest nuclear stockpile, an estimated 5,580 warheads, which are believed to be aimed at major U.S. cities, including Washington D.C., New York, Chicago, Houston, and Los Angeles.

Trump ordered the testing of U.S. nuclear weapons for the first time in 33-years.MEGA

"Because of other countries testing problems, I have instructed the Department of War to start testing our Nuclear Weapons on an equal basis," the president wrote in a Truth Social post. "That process will begin immediately."

While the U.S. has 5,225 nuclear warheads, there's concern that Russia may be teaming up with China, which has an estimated 600 nuclear warheads.

But the feared U.S.-Russia war could further explode if joined by additional nuclear-armed allies, such as Britain, Israel, France, India and Pakistan backing the States, while China and North Korea align with Putin.

Military experts warned Putin has vowed to use nuclear weapons against the West for NATO countries offering to aid Ukraine.MEGA

The worst-case scenario could unleash a barrage of 12,200 airborne nuclear weapons  and sources suggested as many as 2 billion lives could be at risk.

Military experts insisted Putin has vowed to use nuclear weapons on the West for meddling in his ongoing war against Ukraine  and warned of dire consequences if the U.S. or Germany aided the country with long-range missiles.

Putin labeled Germany's plans to give Ukraine missiles as a "direct armed conflict" with his country and said NATO nations were "accomplices in their hostilities."

A retired U.S. Army official called the situation a 'doomsday scenario.'MEGA

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev fanned flames of tension by declaring "the delivery of these missiles could end badly for everyone," because it's difficult to distinguish "a nuclear Tomahawk missile from a conventional one in flight."

Meanwhile, retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul Vallely said Putin would likely first obliterate Berlin if Ukraine uses any of the long-range missiles to strike "valued targets" inside Russia.

"Putin has nuclear weapons, and he's willing to use them," Vallely warned. "It's a doomsday scenario, and everyone in America should be worried."

Putin has successfully tested the Zircon hypersonic missile, which has been nicknamed the 'flying Chernobyl.'MEGA

Trump has issued a stark warning to Putin after he successfully tested the Zircon hypersonic missile  dubbed the "flying Chernobyl"  which travels at speeds exceeding Mach 9 and is capable of striking the U.S. without alerting America's ground-based defense systems.

But a smug Putin carried on business as usual  and unveiled the Khabarovsk, a submarine armed with state-of-the-art Poseidon torpedoes capable of unleashing a radioactive tsunami along U.S. coastlines.

In a show of force, the U.S. test-fired a nuclear-capable ballistic missile from California's Vandenberg Space Force Base, which successfully landed at the Army's Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site in the Marshall Islands, about 4,900 miles away.

Sources claimed several of Trump's cabinet officials, including Stephen Miller, Kristi Noem, Marco Rubio and Pete Hegseth, recently bolted from their homes to huddle in military installations.

Insiders claimed one such secret nuclear bunker would save Trump, allowing the president to instruct the military to fight back.

Experts noted the U.S. could win the potential WWIII by Trump gathering his top advisers to strategize best ways to utilize Air Force Global Strike Command, which can attack anywhere on Earth in 60 minutes, to destroy Russia's nuclear capabilities.
Oklahoma Department of Corrections via AP

NEED TO KNOW

Tremane Wood was sentenced to death for the Jan. 1, 2002 motel-room robbery that killed Ronnie Wipf, who was traveling with Arnold Kleinsasser at the time

Prosecutors said Lanita Bateman and Brandy Warden posed as prostitutes to lure Wipf and Kleinsasser to the motel room

Woods death sentence was commuted to life without parole on Nov. 13, 2025 shortly before his scheduled execution

Tremane Wood was spared the death penalty minutes before his scheduled execution on Thursday, Nov. 13, and he was later found unresponsive in his cell.

PEOPLE previously reported that Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt commuted Woods sentence from death to life in prison without parole Thursday just moments before he was to be executed by lethal injection at Oklahoma State Penitentiary.

Hours afterward, Wood was found unresponsive  a medical event officials determined was brought on by stress and dehydration. He was described as stable and alert later that evening.

Wood had spent more than two decades on death row for the 2002 murder of Ronnie Wipf, a 19-year-old migrant farmworker from a Hutterite community in Montana.

Wipf and fellow farmworker Arnold Arnie Kleinsasser were driving from Montana toward Texas for harvest work when they stopped in Oklahoma City and eventually checked into a Ramada Inn on New Years Eve, according to the Associated Press and The New York Times.

The men met two women that night  Lanita Bateman and Brandy Warden  who were connected to Wood and his older brother, Zjaiton Jake Wood, per KOCO, NonDoc and The Oklahoman.

The outlets reported that the women were posing as sex workers and agreed to have sex with the men for money as part of a plan with the Wood brothers to rob them. The women then accompanied Wipf and Kleinsasser to a motel room before stepping away and contacting the brothers.

Oklahoma Department of Corrections via AP

Once Wipf and Kleinsasser were in the room, two masked men wearing trench coats and gloves burst in  one with a gun and one with a knife  a sequence described by KOCO and CBS News. During the struggle that followed, Wipf was stabbed in the chest and later died, while Kleinsasser escaped. He told investigators he couldnt identify either attacker because both men were masked, per the outlets.

Related: Oklahoma Man on Death Row Spared Minutes Before His Execution. He Was Later Found Unresponsive in His Cell

Investigators alleged that Tremane and Zjaiton Wood were the masked men, and prosecutors told jurors that Tremane was the one who wielded the knife, according to the outlets.

Wood was convicted of first-degree murder and robbery and sentenced to death, while his brother received a sentence of life in prison without parole, according to the AP and the Times.

Zjaiton later died by suicide in prison in 2019, The Guardian reported.

Wood has long acknowledged taking part in the robbery but insisted he did not stab Wipf, claiming his brother carried out the killing. At his clemency hearing, he told the Pardon and Parole Board, Im not a monster. Im not a killer. I never was, and I never have been, per the outlet.

Members of Wipfs family from his Montana Hutterite colony ultimately supported clemency, telling AP and the Times that while they still grieve his death, they did not want Wood executed and believed a life sentence was enough.

Wood is also a father, and outside the prison Thursday his now-adult son told The Guardian he felt "very joyous" after learning his fathers life had been spared. He said it "felt like a thousand pounds has been lifted off my shoulders, calling the last-minute timing of the decision mental torture for both condemned prisoners and their families.



Woods attorney, Amanda Bass Castro-Alves, praised the commutation in a statement reported by CBS News, saying she and the rest of his legal team were profoundly grateful. She added that Stitts decision honored the wishes of Mr. Wipfs family and the surviving victim and might offer them a measure of peace.

Wood is now expected to spend the rest of his life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Read the original article on People
A memorial for Turning Point USA chief executive and co-founder Charlie Kirk is seen at Utah Valley University on Sept. 13, in Orem, Utah. (Lindsey Wasson / Associated Press)

A small street that runs parallel to the Vietnam War Memorial in Westminster will soon bear a new name  Charlie Kirk Way.

During a heated meeting rife with accusations of partisan politics and debate over the role of local government, leaders in the Orange County city voted 4 to 1 Wednesday to partially rename All American Way for the slain conservative activist. Kirk's name will appear in 3-inch font below the official street name.

Mayor Chi Charlie Nguyen, a Republican who is running for Congress next year, brought forth the change because he said Kirk "reflects the values that make Westminster truly special: pride in our country, belief in our freedom and the spirit of civic engagement."

Kirk, a founder of Turning Point USA and one of the Republican Party's most influential figures, was fatally shot by a sniper at Utah Valley University in September.

Read more:California conservatives mourn Charlie Kirk

The death of the 31-year-old, who rejoiced in the back and forth of debates, has triggered a range of emotions and nationwide discussions about how to memorialize the conservative icon.

In Villa Park, a high school teacher allegedly removed a memorial to Kirk that was set up by students. In Calabasas, a teacher was placed on leave after officials said she was linked to a social media post allegedly likening Kirk to a Nazi who "got what he deserved."

In Huntington Beach, another Orange County city frequently at the center of national culture war debates, a September memorial for Kirk at the pier took a dark turn when a group of men joined the crowd chanting, "White men fight back."

Westminster Vice Mayor Carlos Manzo, the lone Democrat on the dais and the sole vote against designating the street in Kirk's honor, at times appeared at a loss for words over Nguyen's proposal. He said it was inappropriate given that Kirk didn't live in Westminster and had no ties to the community. He accused his colleagues of exploiting Kirk's death to score political points.

"Thats what youre doing  exploiting a tragedy for political gain," he said. "Youre going to go out there and campaign with it and say, 'Look, I got this done in my city.'"

Councilmember Amy Phan West, on the other hand, criticized the small font on the street sign as an inadequate way to honor Kirk. A separate proposal she introduced to designate Oct.14  Kirk's birthday  as Charlie Kirk Day in the city also passed on Wednesday.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to recognize Charlie Kirk as an American patriot and a steadfast champion for freedom of speech," she said. "His commitment to protecting the principle of open dialogue and opposing tyranny has been a significant impact on our nation's conversation."

Read more:House approves resolution honoring Kirk

Manzo chastised his colleagues for forcing Westminster into a national political debate rather than focusing on the city's fiscal challenges and making life better for residents, a complaint echoed by many residents who spoke at the meeting. At one point, Manzo said West and Nguyen were trying to "out Republican each other."

Replacing the street signs to add Kirk's name is expected to cost $3,000, according to a city staff report.

Westminster has faced its share of fiscal challenges in recent years and in 2022 appeared on the brink of financial collapse. That year, residents voted to extend the city's 1% sales tax until 2043 to help shore up the city's budget. Without the funds, Westminster was projected to go bankrupt by 2024, even with drastic cuts.

"The fact that you are using our tax dollars for your pet projects, your partisan politics, is bull," resident Tami Hammell said during the meeting. "Stop stealing our time and money with your crap. Get back to all city business and not your partisan business."

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The Nowgam barracks in Srinagar has been devastated. According to the authorities, it was an accident. But the incident comes amid an already tense climate following the attacks on the Red Fort in Delhi and Islamabad. And recent operations against militant cells in Jammu and Kashmir.

Rome (AsiaNews/Agencies) - Accidental explosion. This is how the director general of police of the federal region of Jammu and Kashmir, on the border with Pakistan, described last night's violent explosion at the Nowgam police station in Srinagar, in Indian-administered Kashmir, during a press conference.

Nine people were killed and at least 32 injured after a pile of confiscated explosives detonated while personnel were analysing it. The tragedy comes just days after an attack near the historic Red Fort complex in Delhi, in which a car bomb killed 13 people.

Among the victims of the explosion, which occurred late yesterday evening, Friday 14 November, were police officers, government officials and forensic personnel. Investigations are underway to determine the actual causes and extent of the damage. Director General Nalin Prabhat stresses that any further speculation on the cause of this incident is unnecessary.

This statement attempts to steer explanations of the incident away from terrorism, which has been the focus of investigations into the Delhi explosion.

The latest in a series of Hyundai i20 owners detonated was originally from Pulwama, in Jammu and Kashmir, a region known for its instability and high number of attacks, such as the one last April in Pahalgam, in which more than 20 Indian tourists died.

The bodies of the victims are currently being identified, as some are completely charred, according to police sources quoted by Reuters. The intensity of the explosion was such that some human remains were recovered from nearby houses, about 100-200 metres from the police station, they report.

The explosion engulfed the building in flames, as well as several vehicles parked nearby, with small explosions following the main one. Firefighters rushed to the scene to put out the fire and restore safety.

The explosion at the Red Fort on Tuesday 11 November, described by the Indian authorities as a brutal terrorist incident carried out by groups with international links, comes after the Kashmir police dismantled a suspected militant cell in Kashmir.

It was followed by a string of arrests, where investigations had been conducted in recent days. Large quantities of bomb-making materials were seized in Faridabad and stored at the Nowgam police station.

The situation in the disputed region is exacerbated by international friction with Pakistan: the investigation into the cell began last month after posters supporting the Pakistan-backed armed terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammad appeared in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.

The investigation that began last month led to seven arrests, including two prominent Kashmiri doctors working in other Indian states. In one of the raids in Haryana, police said they discovered 2,900 kg of explosive materials, as well as chemicals, detonators and weapons.

No one has claimed responsibility for the explosion near the Red Fort, but Indian police speak of an ecosystem of radicalised professionals with contacts in Pakistan and other countries.
Real estate agents who put misleading price estimates on property listings in New South Wales could be slapped with with fines of up to $110,000. The loathed practice is already illegal.

But the NSW government is drafting legislation to increase consequences for guilty agents. Real estate agents have been accused of underquoting to make auctions more competitive.

More buyers are attracted to auctions when agents drop the advertised price lower than the owner's asking or what they are estimated to sell for.

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This also includes ambiguous, like "about $800,000" or "$800,000 plus", which the NSW government said does not allow buyers to gauge whether the property is within their price range.

Australian buyer's agent, Dion Marsden, recently told Yahoo News just how stressful an action can be as hopeful buyers are overwhelmed as they compete for what can be one of the biggest buys of their life.

He said underquoting is common, and when buyers open at the lower end, it only builds confidence and momentum for the competition.

Auction activity across Australia's capital cities is expected to hit its strongest level since the pre-Easter rush last year, with 3,245 homes slated to go under the hammer this week, according to CoreLogic.

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Sydney is currently in the grips of what has been touted as its busiest auction week of 2025.

Buyer's agent Dion Marsden has some stern advice for Australians looking to crack the property market. Source: Dion Marsden/realestate.com.au

There are 1,332 homes set to go to market this weekend, noticeably higher than last weeks 1,186 and the 1,098 offered a year ago.

Marsden urged house hunters to consider that "not every property sold is a good buy".

"You have to know your walk-away price," he said.

"And often buyers will pay too much.

"Too much is when you go over your own budget or your own plan, and what you're prepared to pay, and that's not a good buy."

Property finance broker David Meadows told Yahoo not every real estate agent is guilty of the practice.

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Those who do underquote can drive attention and people away from auctions of properties that are more honestly advertised.

And that can make it hard for other agents doing the right thing.

"I actually know a lot of great agents who are ethical and don't like underquoting, but their competitors all do it," Meadows said.

How is underquoting being tackled?

The Minns government has begun consulting with the property sector ahead of legislation expected to go to parliament next year.

It includes a move to mandate a price or price guide on all property listings, preventing buyers from wasting time on homes outside their budget.

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While already illegal under federal consumer law, NSW and most other states have additional regulations designed to discourage the practice.

NSW Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, Anoulack Chanthivong, said stronger laws are needed to restore trust in the property market.

The proposed laws will ensure NSW Fair Tradings Strata and Property Taskforce can take meaningful action against misleading conduct in property advertising and transactions and clean up the NSW market.

Alleged has already been uncovered by the taskforce, which was established last year.

Sydney agent Joshua Tesolin had his licence suspended by Fair Trading over serious and repeated breaches.

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Disciplinary action is pending over allegations involving more than 100 residential properties.

There are certain dos and don'ts when bidding at an auction. Source: Getty

Along with the new fines, reforms would give NSW Fair Trading new powers to impose greater disciplinary action.

This includes publishing details of underquoting breaches, and a standalone offence for agents failing to meet continuing professional development requirements.

The government said it plans to model the legislation on Victorias 2016 underquoting laws, which have been widely accepted by the real estate industry.

Victoria recently strengthened its rules further, requiring agents to use the most appropriate comparable properties when pricing homes for auction.

How can I increase your chances at auction?

Marsden has eight years of experience in the real estate industry and reminded buyers to be mindful of simple acts that can give away your position and reduce your chance of success at an auction.

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He warned against inviting companions, particularly parents who can become emotional, and chatting while the auction's underway as this can unwittingly send signals to both the auctioneer and the seller.

The Melbourne man said it's all about coming in with a game plan and knowing how to keep a poker face.

"If you set a strict budget ... you know that you're not going to go above that, then you've got no problem going and bidding up to that," he said.

"The problem occurs when buyers start pushing their budget because then they're going outside of the plan they've set, and then that's when buyers overpay or get emotional and regret it."

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He said never chat during the auction as it can signal you are close to your budget limit.

"Even if you're not close to your budget, and you start chatting, buyers will still think you're close to your budget, and then they'll keep bidding, and ultimately push you to pay more.

"You're telling the other buyers close to their budget, if they push a little bit harder, they'll knock you out  you're giving off signals that you're almost done."

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He also said not to start your bid too low.

Instead, ignore the quote and start bidding closer to what the property is actually worth.

That makes other bidders uncomfortable, reduces the number of people willing to compete, and gets the auction to the serious end much faster.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
by Stefano Caprio

Believing in Russia does not automatically mean believing in God and religious dogmas, belonging to the Orthodox Church does not necessarily mean attending liturgical celebrations, and supporting traditional values does not automatically translate into accepting the dictates of the catechism.

On the occasion of last week's People's Unity Day, the Kremlin's sociological centre Vitsom conducted a survey on the priorities for affirming the identity of Russian citizens, asking them which social or community group they mainly refer to, in practice Who are you?.

The results showed that the overwhelming majority gave the patriotic answer a citizen of Russia, while surprisingly, the recognition of a believer in my religion came last, with only 2% of responses (in fact, the percentage of Russians who attend religious services), even less than the response a citizen of the world, which obtained 3%.

One of the most common statements, at 60%, concerns Russia as a multi-ethnic country, which makes the country much stronger, although last year there were 5% more supporters of multinationality.

Vitsom experts explain that when it comes to personal identity, citizenship always comes first, far surpassing other identity foundations such as gender, generation, profession, ethnicity and so on. Patriotic recognition is the common factor that unites people regardless of gender, age, social status and region of residence or origin.

The most obvious contradiction concerns the relationship with religion, particularly Orthodox Christianity. A 2019 Vitsom survey reported that 63% of respondents declared themselves to be staunchly Orthodox, and it is not easy to explain the large gap between Russians' identity and religious affiliation.

Much depends on how the questions are formulated, which suggests that religious affiliation is a secondary component of patriotic identity, even for other traditional religions in Russia such as Islam, Buddhism and Judaism, and it is no coincidence that traditional values are always defined as moral and spiritual, placing the latter in dependence on the former, defined by the civil authorities and then confirmed by the blessing of the pope, rabbi, lama or mullah.

The religious affiliation of Russians is very formal, as confirmed by the low attendance at liturgies, often experienced more as a folkloric event at Easter and other major holidays, when people go to church to bless the sweets and gifts to be distributed to relatives.

Even participation in celebrations reflects an almost exclusively external formality: of the few who attend the Divine Liturgy, the Orthodox Mass, no more than 10% approach the sacraments of confession and communion, while the rest of the faithful limit themselves to lighting a candle in front of the icon of their favourite saint.

The religious revival of the 1990s, after the end of communist atheism, saw a spectacular transformation of 100 million non-believers into devout Orthodox Christians, with an initial sincere search for the rediscovery of religious values that soon became a process of votserkovlenie, the Russian term for churchification.

Baptism and religious marriage are the ultimate expression of this reintegration into ecclesial life, which then takes on particularly intense meaning only when combined with the monastic experience, lived in Russia as a radical form of identity with the earthly and heavenly homeland in the spirit of escaping the world experienced as the end of the world, not truly believing that life on this earth can conform to the eternal principles of religion.

For the vast majority of Russian Orthodox believers, questions of individual salvation, life according to spiritual ideals, moral imperatives, and even less so theological issues, do not matter much.

Orthodoxy is the historical confession of Russia, and one must be proud of it as a solemn part of one's citizenship, and this also applies to other confessions, achieving a moderate Islam not through in-depth interpretations of the Koran, but through the awareness of a Russian Islam that must not be contaminated by the radical Islam coming from the Middle East or other unpatriotic Muslim areas.

This also applies to the Muslim-majority countries of Central Asia, which maintain a self-awareness very similar to that of the old imperial masters.

Moreover, surveys also show that a very high percentage of Russian citizens do not indicate any reference to religious denominations, between 30 and 40% at least according to official statistics, and perhaps even more in reality.

Religious indifference is common to many other populations in traditionally Christian countries, in Europe and the rest of the world, and for Russia it is a factor similar to the adherence to Soviet ideology in the last century.

Party officials and various public institutions professed devotion to the principles of communism for the sake of social status and career prospects, but the vast majority of the population conformed to ideological principles only to avoid complications, despite the relentless propaganda of DiaMat lessons, dialectical Marxism-Leninism, and anti-religious lessons of scientific atheism.

Immediately after the end of communism, it was precisely the specialists in atheism who became the main teachers of religion, claiming to study it only ostensibly to counter it, when in reality they were the first to take an interest in it.

This could suggest a reverse effect of the current obsessive patriotic propaganda, from nurseries to universities and in every social sphere, which could quickly backfire as events change. Many sociologists warn that the current ideological conformism is fundamentally supported by the military operation in Ukraine, which requires the mobilisation of consciences even before the willingness to fight, often left to the smaller populations of the Caucasus and Siberia.

It is no coincidence that even in Soviet times, the most enthusiastic support for state policies came from the military, which also quickly became servants of the cult, due to the easy harmony between war and patriotic faith.

Believing in Russia does not automatically mean believing in God and religious dogmas; belonging to the Orthodox Church does not necessarily mean attending liturgical celebrations; supporting traditional values does not automatically translate into accepting the dictates of the catechism. It depends on the circumstances and the orientation of political leaders, supported by religious hierarchs.

One can believe in Russia's divine mission without having a clear idea of the evangelical mission of Christ and the apostles, and this makes Russia's return to religion even more harmful than the profession of militant atheism. It is no coincidence that explicit atheists in Russia today are subjected to persecution similar to that of believers in Soviet times, making them a particularly significant category for the defence of freedom of thought and religious profession in reverse.

According to various definitions, which are often turned into charges, atheists are amoral and unworthy of citizenship, they are assigned mental dysfunction and poor comprehension, they are accused of ethical vandalism and disrespect for the homeland, feverish imagination, moral licentiousness, adherence to the principle of permissiveness and other similar epithets.

Those who declare themselves atheists are not admitted to Russian identity because they transmit non-Russian and foreign values, as a result of propaganda and reverse preaching from foreign countries, and this in the very country that has achieved the greatest profession of atheism in the history of humanity.

Even in the most radical Islamic countries, in the Middle East and in various parts of the world, there is greater freedom of thought, despite the obligation to respect Muslim sharia law, which merely relegates citizens who do not profess the Muslim faith to the background, without expelling them from the national community, while Russia seems to be returning increasingly to the dark times of intolerance.

For Josif Volokolamskij, the greatest theologian of the fifteenth century, religion was the foundation of the state, an expression widely used today by Putin and Kirill, but not necessarily the foundation of conscience and one's own samobytnost, identity or self-essence, which easily dissolves in the whirlwinds of history.

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15 November 2025 14:20 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

The Caspian Sea has always been Azerbaijans eternal companion, a shimmering mirror of its history and resilience. For centuries, our ships sailed its familiar waters, carrying the lifeblood of trade and the pride of a nation whose destiny was tied to this inland sea. Yet beyond the horizon lay oceans that seemed unreachable, vast blue worlds reserved for others. Azerbaijan, landlocked yet determined, dreamed of the day when its flag would rise not only on the Caspian waves but across the boundless expanses of the Pacific and Atlantic. That dream is now reality.

With the commissioning of modern Handysize cargo vessels, Azerbaijan has broken through the limits of geography and stepped boldly into the global maritime stage. The Khojaly vessel, launched in May 2024 in China, is the symbol of this transformation. With a deadweight capacity of 38,593 tons, a length of 180 meters, and unrestricted navigation capability, it is designed to cross oceans and connect continents. This ship, and others to follow, mark Azerbaijans confident entry into world shipping.

Soon after entering service, Khojaly began voyages linking Asia to America and Latin America, transporting steel and industrial cargoes. These routes, once unimaginable for Azerbaijani shipping, became reality thanks to strategic vision and investment in global logistics. The most symbolic milestone came in November 2025, when Khojaly departed Port Kembla in Australia with 24,251 tons of steel bound for Los Angeles. Sailing across the Pacific Ocean under full international safety protocols, the vessel embodied Azerbaijans new role in global trade. For the first time, an Azerbaijani ship was not only crossing oceans but also connecting two of the worlds largest economies.

This achievement is more than a commercial success; it is a declaration that Azerbaijan, despite being landlocked, is now a participant in the vast network of maritime commerce. The Caspian remains our home, but the oceans are now our horizon.

Economically, the benefits are profound. Global shipping routes open new opportunities for Azerbaijani companies, diversify trade, and strengthen the nations role in international supply chains. By transporting steel, cement, and other industrial goods, Azerbaijan is not only serving foreign markets but also embedding itself in the infrastructure of global commerce. Each voyage enhances the countrys reputation as a reliable partner, builds trust with international clients, and generates valuable foreign currency inflows.

Strategically, Azerbaijans entry into ocean shipping elevates its geopolitical importance. The Caspian has always been a crossroads of energy and trade, but now Azerbaijan extends its reach far beyond regional boundaries. By connecting Asia, Australia, and America, Azerbaijani ships contribute to the resilience of global supply chains. This strengthens the countrys position in initiatives like the Middle Corridor, which seeks to link East and West through diversified transport routes.

Socially, this achievement inspires pride. For generations, Azerbaijanis have looked to the Caspian as their maritime horizon. Today, that horizon has expanded to the Pacific, the Atlantic, and beyond. The sight of an Azerbaijani vessel docking in Los Angeles or departing from Australia is more than a logistical successit is a moment of national identity, a reminder that Azerbaijans spirit of exploration and enterprise knows no bounds.

The symbolism of naming the vessel Khojaly is also powerful. It ensures that every voyage carries with it the memory of resilience and the strength of national identity. As the ship sails across oceans, it tells the world that Azerbaijan remembers its past while building its future.

Looking forward, the acquisition of additional Handysize vessels ensures that this is not a onetime achievement but the beginning of a sustained presence in global waters. With each new ship, Azerbaijan strengthens its fleet, expands its routes, and deepens its integration into the world economy. The vision is clear: Azerbaijan will not be limited by geography. It will transform its maritime tradition into a global force, proving that even a landlocked nation can become a player in ocean trade.

In conclusion, Azerbaijans Handysize fleet represents more than ships and cargo. It is a symbol of ambition, resilience, and national pride. From the Caspian to the Pacific, Azerbaijan is writing a new chapter in its historyone where its flag waves across oceans, its products reach distant markets, and its people take pride in a nation that refuses to be confined. The journey of Khojaly from Australia to the United States is not just a voyage of steel; it is a voyage of destiny. Azerbaijan has stepped onto the global maritime stage, and its future there is bright.
15 November 2025 11:35 (UTC+04:00)

From November 13 to 15, the Uzbek capital, Tashkent, is hosting an international congress on Spiritual Heritage and Enlightenment in Central Asia. The event brings together representatives from five Central Asian nations: Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan.

According to the Ministry of Culture of Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijani delegation, led by Culture Minister Adil Krimli, is participating in the congress. On November 14, a Ministers Conference was held as part of the event.

Opening the conference, Uzbekistans Minister of Culture, Ozodbek Nazarbekov, highlighted the importance of this international gathering in fostering collaboration among friendly nations and expressed confidence that the congress and the Ministers Conference would make a meaningful contribution to the development of cultural cooperation.

In his speech, Minister Adil Krimli thanked his Uzbek counterpart for inviting Azerbaijan to participate in the prestigious international event. He emphasized President Ilham Aliyevs special focus on strengthening ties with Central Asian states, noting that relations with the five participating countries have rapidly deepened in recent years.

Culturally, our nations are connected by a reliable bridge that grows stronger every year. Last year and this year have been particularly significant for the cultural life of our brotherly countries. Mutual cultural days, participation in international festivals, artistic tours, and expanding cooperation between educational and creative institutionsall of these reflect the high level of our relations. I am confident that through the implementation of the tasks set by our national leaders, we will continue to write new, bright pages in this area, Krimli said.

Following his remarks, speeches were delivered by Kazakhstans Minister of Culture and Information, Aida Balayeva; Tajikistans Minister of Culture, Matlubaxon Sattoriyen; Turkmenistans Minister of Culture, Atageldi Shamiradov; and Kyrgyzstans Minister of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy, Mirbek Mambataliyev.

The ministers collectively highlighted the importance of cultural integration among their nations and discussed prospects for deepening cooperation in the years ahead.
15 November 2025 15:25 (UTC+04:00)

A special screening of the film Taghiyev: Oil was held on November 14 at the renowned Panoramafilm cinema in Tashkent, Azernews reports.

According to the Ministry of Culture, the event brought together the culture ministers of Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan, along with the heads of national film agencies and members of the local cultural community.

The audience was first briefed about the production. It was noted that the film was produced by Baku Media Center with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Ministry of Culture, and the Cinema Agency. This screening marked the premiere of the first episode of the multi-series film Taghiyev, dedicated to the life and legacy of the celebrated Azerbaijani oil magnate and philanthropist Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev.

The film also touches upon key historical events that unfolded in Baku and various regions of Azerbaijan in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The executive producer of the project is Arzu Aliyeva, with Orman Aliyev as producer. The film is directed by Zaur Gasimli, who also co-authored the script alongside Ismayil Iman and Asif Isgandarli. Cinematography is by Vladimir Artemyev, with art direction by Sabuhi Atababayev, costume design by Vusal Rahim, and music composed by Etibar Asadli.

The cast features prominent Azerbaijani actors, including Peoples Artist Prviz Mmmdrzayev in the role of Taghiyev, as well as Gurban Ismayilov and Honored Artists Rasim Jafar, Elshen Rustamov, and Natavan Hajiyeva.

It was emphasized that the Taghiyev film series continues to lead box-office rankings in local cinemas and has already received multiple awards. Negotiations are currently under way for international distribution, including across Central Asian republics.

Following the presentation, the film was screened and received with strong interest and warm applause from the audience.
15 November 2025 10:30 (UTC+04:00)

Under the instructions of President Ilham Aliyev, the Great Return to the liberated territories continues.

Azernews reports that the IDP families relocating to the village of Mmmdbyli in Zangilan district and the village of Xdrl in Aghdam district had been temporarily settled in various parts of the country, mainly in dormitories, sanatoriums, and administrative buildings.

At this stage, 30 families (143 people) have been resettled to Zangilans Mmmdbyli village, while 50 families (219 people) have moved to Aghdams Xdrl village.

The returning residents expressed their gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva for the comprehensive state support provided to them. They also conveyed their thanks to the valiant Azerbaijani Army, the heroic soldiers and officers who liberated the lands from occupation, and paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in this cause.

It should be noted that more than 50,000 people currently live in Garabagh and East Zangazur, including former internally displaced persons who have been resettled, employees engaged in the implementation of ongoing projects, public sector staff serving in local state institutions, and workers in newly restored healthcare, education, culture, tourism, industrial, and energy facilities.
15 November 2025 11:07 (UTC+04:00)

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev sent a congratulatory letter to his excellency Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine, Azernews reports.

"Dear Mr. President,

On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I cordially congratulate you and, through you, your entire nation on the occasion of the national holiday of the State of Palestine.

The peoples of Azerbaijan and Palestine are bound together by friendly and fraternal ties. Azerbaijan has always demonstrated solidarity with the issue of Palestine, and supports the establishment of an independent State of Palestine with East Jerusalem as its capital and its resolution based on the two-state principle in accordance with relevant UN resolutions and decisions. I express my confidence that the outcomes of the Middle East Peace Summit held in Sharm el-Sheikh will contribute to peace, stability, and security in the region.

We will continue to provide necessary humanitarian assistance to Palestine. I believe that the friendly relations and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Palestine, built on good traditions, will continue to develop successfully in the future.

On this remarkable day, I wish you robust health, happiness, success in your endeavors, and peace and tranquility to the brotherly Palestinian people.

Respectfully,

Ilham Aliyev

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku, 12 November 2025",'' the letter reads.
15 November 2025 14:22 (UTC+04:00)

On November 15, Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, held a one-on-one meeting with Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in Tashkent, Azernews reports.

During the meeting, the sides hailed the successful development of relationship between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan, which is based on alliance and strategic partnership.

The role of President Ilham Aliyev's regular visits to Uzbekistan and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's visits to Azerbaijan in the development of relations between the two countries was highlighted.

The parties noted with satisfaction that the cooperation between Azerbaijan and the countries of Central Asia has recently expanded considerably, and in this regard, stressed the significance of the participation of President Ilham Aliyev in the 7th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia.

During the conversation, the heads of state exchanged views on the prospects of relations between the two countries.
Cars have gotten expensive. No, really expensive: Last month, the average new car cost $50,080, according to Kelley Blue Book. Thats the first time the average has crossed the $50,000 threshold, and marks a long gap since 2019 when new cars averaged under $39,000.

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So whats a buyer to do, if they dont want to go into mortgage-level debt to buy a car? Start your search with these affordable car models that punch above their weight class.

Toyota Corolla

2026 starting price: $23,920 (Kelley Blue Book)

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The Corolla remains one of the best-selling sedans in the world for a reason: It offers incredible value for money.

The 2026 Toyota Corolla keeps its established powertrain, excellent fuel performance and standard safety features, explains mechanic Alan Gelfand, owner of the German Car Depot. It has low maintenance costs with easily accessible parts, and its resale value exceeds most vehicles in its class.

In other words, its hard to beat the Corollas bang for your buck.

Consider This: I Asked a Mechanic How To Make My Car Last 300,000 Miles  Heres What He Said

Hyundai Elantra

2026 starting price: $23,370

Its hard to say exactly when U.S. consumers started giving Hyundai the respect it deserves for quality and reliability. But at some point in the last two decades, Americans turned the corner and started embracing the Korean brand.

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Modern technology features, fashionable design and its 10-year powertrain warranty all make a winning combination for the Elantra, adds Gelfand. The warranty provides complete protection, and the 2026 Elantra provides advanced features such as adaptive cruise control and digital displays.

Kia Seltos

2026 starting price: $25,135

The 2026 model actually starts below than the 2025 model ($26,085), and offers great value as a subcontract SUV. Zach Shefska, CEO of CarEdge, raves about the Seltos as a bargain.

For 2026, Kia introduced a new entry-level front-wheel-drive LX trim, bringing the Seltos starting price down by nearly $1,000, Shefska said. That makes the Seltos one of the cheapest crossovers you can buy new in 2026.

Subaru Crosstrek

2026 starting price: $28,415

Another subcompact SUV, the Crosstrek comes standard with all-wheel drive, which makes it a great all-weather car. The base model comes with 180 horsepower, adding to its fun, adventurous feel.

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The Crosstrek provides the best all-wheel drive option at this affordable price, notes Gelfand. The 2026 model provides enhanced safety features and enhanced fuel efficiency compared to previous models as well.

Dodge Durango R/T Plus

2026 starting price: $53,515

As a three-row SUV with a V8 engine, the Durango is much larger and stronger than the crossover Seltos and Crosstrek. While the cheapest trim starts at $40,490, Shefska recommends the R/T Plus trim with its 360-horsepower engine as the best value.

For 2025, Stellantis is out to turn around falling sales by adjusting pricing to lure in buyers. For 2026, the Dodge Durango R/T Plus is a whole lot more affordable, he noted. The Plus version of the popular Durango R/T gains premium features like leather-trimmed heated/ventilated seats, power sunroof and adaptive safety tech.

Editors note: Photos are for representational purposes only.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Affordable 2026 Car Models Experts Recommend
15 November 2025 18:13 (UTC+04:00)

On November 15, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev visited the Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent.

The foundation stone for the Center of Islamic Civilization, established by the Decree of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, was laid in 2018. The project, which involved hundreds of scientists, experts, and religious and public figures, resulted in a center covering over 10 hectares, designed in the style of ancient Samarkand architectural monuments, and crowned by a 65-meter-high dome.

The centers core facilities include research, publishing, library, archives, a manuscript fund, and a national register for rare manuscripts sections. Its exhibition gallery showcases historical artifacts and works, through modern technologies and digital devices demonstrating the creative genius of past generations.

The center also houses a huge library containing 100 thousand manuscripts and over a million books, the scientific department of the Center of Islamic Civilization, and offices of international organizations. Its museum exposition is organized into distinct halls: "Pre-Islamic Civilizations", "The First Renaissance", "The Second Renaissance", "Uzbekistan in the 20th Century", "New Uzbekistan - the Basis of the Third Renaissance" and "The Holy Quran".

At the heart of the complex lies the hall of the Holy Quran, where the ancient Muskhaf Usman priceless relic of the Islamic worldis preserved. The hall also displays copies of the holy book created during the eras of Samanids, Karakhanids, Khorezmshahs, Uzbeks, Temurids and other historical dynasties, their translations into the old Uzbek language, as well as the rarest handwritten copies of the Koran from all over the world. Furthermore, the center has successfully implemented various religious-educational and innovative media projects.

Using holography, devices, and projection technologies, the massive multimedia panel Wall of Time provides information on the key historical periods, remarkable discoveries, and renowned figures from different eras. The center also actively collaborates with a number of international organizations, including UNESCO and ICESCO.
15 November 2025 18:15 (UTC+04:00)

On November 15, the solemn presentation ceremony of the "Heritage of the Future" International Award was held in Tashkent, Azernews reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev attended the event.

This distinguished award was conferred upon People's Artist of Azerbaijan Alim Gasimov.
15 November 2025 18:10 (UTC+04:00)

Next year is expected to be the most challenging period for Tesla, according to Ashok Ellusvami, the companys Vice President for Artificial Intelligence software.

Citing foreign media outlets, Azernews reports that Ellusvami made the remarks during a meeting with employees from Teslas Optimus autopilot and robot development divisions.

Ellusvami emphasized that employees will need to work harder than ever to meet the companys ambitious goals. Tesla has set strict timelines for the mass production of Optimus robots and the expansion of its Robotaxi service. CEO Elon Musk considers these two initiatives the companys top priorities.

By the end of this year, Tesla aims to launch the Robotaxi service in ten major cities. By the end of 2026, the company plans to begin mass production of the Optimus robot.

The Autopilot development division shares office space with the Optimus creators but is distinct from other engineering teams, with its organizational structure remaining confidential. Staff in the division maintain long working hours and attend weekly meetings with Musk.

Ellusvami assumed his leadership role in the Optimus project following the resignation of his predecessor, Milan Kovac. Since then, cameras have become the primary tool for robot navigation.
15 November 2025 19:45 (UTC+04:00)

Estonia has allocated 3.5 million for Ukraine to purchase Starlink communication systems as part of the Estonia-led IT Coalition, Azernews reports.

According to the Estonian Ministry of Defence, the decision follows Ukraines request for support to ensure stable Starlink connectivity.

Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur stated that Ukraine had indicated a particular need for assistance in maintaining Starlink communications.

Given Ukraines intention to significantly increase the number of drones that require high-speed internet connectivity, Starlinks capabilities are especially important, he said.

The minister stressed that, alongside weapons, information and technology support also play a critical role.

That is why I am glad that we can help strengthen Ukraines IT capabilities, thereby increasing its chances of success in a war where hundreds of people are dying every day, Pevkur added.
15 November 2025 20:20 (UTC+04:00)

Iran on Saturday confirmed its Revolutionary Guards seized a tanker carrying petrochemical cargo bound for Singapore in Gulf waters on Friday, Iranian media reported, Azernews reports, citing Arab News.

Following inspections, authorities said the tanker was in violation for carrying unauthorized cargo. They did not provide further details.

The ship, the Talara, had been traveling from Ajman, United Arab Emirates, onward to Singapore when Iranian forces intercepted it, a US defense official said, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence matters.

A US Navy MQ-4C Triton drone had been circling above the area where the Talara was for hours on Friday observing the seizure, flight-tracking data analyzed by The Associated Press showed.

A private security firm, Ambrey, described the assault as involving three small boats approaching the Talara.

The British militarys United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center separately acknowledged the incident, saying a possible state activity forced the Talara to turn into Iranian territorial waters. Cyprus-based Columbia Shipmanagement later said in a statement that it had lost contact with the tanker, which was carrying high sulfur gasoil.

The company has notified the relevant authorities and is working closely with all relevant parties  including maritime security agencies and the vessel owner  to restore contact with the vessel, the firm said. The safety of the crew remains our foremost priority.

The Navy has blamed Iran for a series of limpet mine attacks on vessels that damaged tankers in 2019, as well as for a fatal drone attack on an Israeli-linked oil tanker that killed two European crew members in 2021.

Those attacks began after US President Donald Trump in his first term in office unilaterally withdrew from Irans 2015 nuclear deal with world powers. The last major seizure came when Iran took two Greek tankers in May 2022 and held them until November of that year.

Those attacks found themselves subsumed by the Iranian-backed Houthis assaults targeting ships during the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip, which drastically reduced shipping in the crucial Red Sea corridor.

The years of tensions between Iran and the West, coupled with the situation in the Gaza Strip, exploded into a full-scale 12-day war in June.

Iran long has threatened to close off the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth of the Arabian Gulf through which 20 percent of all oil traded passes. The US Navy has long patrolled the Mideast through its Bahrain-based 5th Fleet to keep the waterways open.
15 November 2025 21:25 (UTC+04:00)

On November 15, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is holding grand ceremonies in Nicosia, Kyrenia, and other cities to mark the 42nd anniversary of Republic Day, Azernews reports.

An official reception took place at the Presidential Complex in Nicosia, where TRNCs sixth President, Tufan Erhurman, received numerous congratulations.

From Turkiye, a delegation led by Vice President Cevdet Ylmaz attended the events. He reaffirmed Ankaras steadfast commitment to supporting the Turkish Cypriot community. Various Turkish state institutions, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Defense, also extended their congratulations to the TRNC leadership and citizens.

As part of the celebrations, wreaths were laid at the monuments of the TRNCs first President Rauf Denktas and his deputy Fazl Kucuk, as well as memorials dedicated to Turkish Cypriot martyrs who sacrificed their lives for freedom. A festive parade was held on Fazl Kucuk Boulevard in Nicosia.

In addition, vessels belonging to the Turkish Naval Forces anchored along the northern coast of Cyprus in honor of the Republic Day celebrations.
15 November 2025 21:55 (UTC+04:00)

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has acknowledged conducting diplomatic discussions with US President Donald Trump regarding escalating border tensions with Thailand. During Friday's telephone conversation, both leaders addressed recent military clashes along the Cambodia-Thailand frontier and strategies for maintaining the peace agreement previously established with American mediation support, Azernews reports, citing Yeni Safak.

The Cambodian leader expressed appreciation for Trump's ceasefire initiative and the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration while reaffirming Phnom Penh's firm commitment to upholding the agreement's principles. Hun Manet emphasized Cambodia's preference for resolving border disputes through established bilateral mechanisms and previously agreed principles, hoping both nations would continue cooperative engagement. President Trump reportedly emphasized his desire for lasting peace between the Southeast Asian neighbors while committing to ongoing monitoring of border developments.

The diplomatic exchange follows Wednesday's cross-border confrontation that resulted in one civilian fatality and three additional injuries, with both Thailand and Cambodia exchanging accusations regarding responsibility. The violent incident occurred shortly after Thailand suspended a peace pact both nations signed last month in Kuala Lumpur with President Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim serving as witnesses to the agreement.

Cambodia and Thailand had previously established an unconditional ceasefire during July trilateral discussions hosted by Prime Minister Anwar, following several weeks of sustained hostilities. The White House confirmed Friday that President Trump had engaged in separate communications with both Cambodian and Thai officials aimed at de-escalating border tensions, though specific conversation participants beyond Hun Manet remained unspecified in official statements.
15 November 2025 23:10 (UTC+04:00)

The United Nations Security Council has approved a twelve-month extension of Yemen sanctions, continuing targeted financial and travel restrictions against designated individuals until November 14, 2026, Azernews reports, citing Yeni Safak.

Friday's resolution received thirteen affirmative votes with Russia and China abstaining, authorizing the maintenance of specific measures aimed at addressing Yemen's ongoing conflict while extending the Yemen Panel of Experts' monitoring mandate through December 2026.

The United Kingdom-sponsored resolution gained endorsement from numerous Security Council members, with British Charge d'Affaires James Kariuki emphasizing that the extended sanctions would enhance monitoring capabilities and deter arms embargo violations. Kariuki stated the measures would help restrain Houthi military capacity to destabilize Yemen and threaten regional maritime security while avoiding adverse humanitarian consequences for Yemeni civilians affected by the prolonged conflict.

Chinese Deputy UN Ambassador Geng Shuang criticized last-minute British proposals authorizing maritime interdictions in Red Sea waters, characterizing vessel inspections based on "reasonable grounds" as arbitrary measures that could impair navigation freedom and international trade. Russian Deputy Ambassador Anna Evstigneeva similarly condemned the resolution's "unbalanced and one-sided" wording, describing Western members' approach as highly politicized and emphasizing the necessity of involving regional partners including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iran, and Oman in the process.

Yemen has experienced sustained violence since 2014 when Houthi rebels supported by Iran seized control over significant territory including the capital Sanaa. The conflict intensified in 2015 following intervention by a Saudi-led military coalition conducting extensive aerial campaigns against Houthi positions. United Nations estimates indicate tens of thousands of fatalities with approximately 14 million Yemenis confronting starvation risks amid one of the world's most severe humanitarian crises.
Affordable SUVs dont just come with a lower price upfront; theyre designed to stay reliable, safe and inexpensive to maintain for years. GOBankingRates interviewed Alan Gelfand, veteran mechanic and owner of German Car Depot, who shared his expertise on what true affordability actually means. An affordable SUV isnt just one thats cheap to buy; its inexpensive to own long-term, Gelfand said.

See Next: I Asked ChatGPT Which Hybrid Vehicles To Stay Away From Buying: Heres What It Said

Read This: 6 Safe Accounts Proven To Grow Your Money Up To 13x Faster

His method for determining affordability involves analyzing dependability, warranty coverage, resale value and expected maintenance over a decade, with emphasis on reliability and maintenance. Gelfand recommended these affordable SUVs for every shopper.

Toyota RAV4

Starting price: $33,000

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The 2026 Toyota RAV4 continues its reign as one of the most balanced SUVs, offering exceptional value, practicality and durability. According to MotorTrend, the RAV4 Hybrid tops small SUV rankings for performance, safety and technology thanks to its 2.5-liter gasoline engine paired with fuel-saving hybrid tech. It retains a strong position in resale markets because Toyotas dependable track record keeps buyers confident.

Gelfand mentioned that Toyotas established engineering provides solid long-term performance when owners stick to regular scheduled maintenance practices. The 2026 edition keeps a projected lifespan exceeding 15 years with standard upkeep, proving that the RAV4 remains one of the smartest family SUV purchases around. According to Edmunds, the hybrid version has an expected mileage at over 40 miles per gallon while maintaining moderate repair costs.

For You: I Asked a Mechanic How To Make My Car Last 300,000 Miles: Heres What He Said

Honda CR-V

Starting price: $30,920

With the 2026 Honda CR-V, efficiency and reliability continue to set the bar for compact SUVs. The vehicles hybrid variant now dominates its segment with improved fuel economy, offering up to 40 mpg combined and a silky, comfortable driving experience. Prices begin at $30,920, making it one of the best-value entries on the market.

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Alan Gelfand praised Honda for achieving design perfection over time, noting that the CR-Vs low insurance costs and strong resale value make it an ideal option for practical-minded drivers. He pointed out that its hybrid technology has matured, meaning fewer breakdowns and long-term dependability that outperforms early competitors. The new TrailSport trim also adds capability for those seeking light off-road comfort.

Mazda CX-5

Starting price: $31,000

Drivers who appreciate stylish interiors and refined handling gravitate toward the 2026 Mazda CX-5, an SUV that combines luxury and affordability. While Mazda is preparing major updates for its CX-50 line, the CX-5 continues providing comfort and craftsmanship typical of higher-end models without the price tag, per MotorTrend.com. The vehicle emphasizes smooth power delivery and sporty agility, features that consistently earn strong reliability ratings.

Gelfand showed admiration on how Mazda delivers premium quality that doesnt break the bank. [It] proves that elegance and affordability can coexist without compromise, he said. According to Edmunds, the CX-5s maintenance expenses remain below the segment average and it holds its resale performance remarkably well against Toyota and Honda rivals.

Hyundai Tucson

Starting price: $29,200

The 2026 Hyundai Tucson brings upscale features to an accessible price, offering solid competition to its Japanese counterparts. Hyundai extended its mission to democratize high-end technology by including digital displays, driver-assist packages and interior comfort usually reserved for luxury vehicles, according to MotorTrend.com. Its factory 10-year or 100,000-mile warranty underscores the brands trust in product reliability and cost transparency.

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[Its] a top value because its warranty coverage alone eliminates many ownership worries, Gelfand said. He described the Tucson as an SUV designed with balance  combining comfort, fuel efficiency and ease of maintenance, all key characteristics of true affordability. Hyundais well-earned place among Consumer Reports recommended models further validates its value appeal.

Subaru Forester

Starting price: $29,995

According to Edmunds, the upcoming 2026 Subaru Forester maintains its reputation as the ultimate all-weather budget SUV, emphasizing control and safety. With its standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, the Forester provides outstanding stability and confidence during challenging weather conditions. Subarus reliability record still ranks among the industrys best, assuring buyers of long-term durability.

Gelfand named the Forester his top recommendation for buyers who drive through variable climates. [This model] delivers functional comfort and retains excellent resale performance, he added, especially in Floridas heavy rains or mountain regions. Its fuel economy and low-cost maintenance schedule make it an attractive option for families prioritizing safety and affordability combined.

Kia Sportage

Starting price: $28,690

Completing the list, the 2026 Kia Sportage emerges as one of the smartest buys for value-driven SUV shoppers. Kias lineup has steadily improved and the Sportage now competes directly with segment leaders on performance and refinement. According to Car and Driver, the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models highlight Kias push toward efficiency without compromising comfort or technology.

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Gelfand highlighted Kias extended warranty program as a reassuring asset for budget-conscious consumers, securing value across ownership years. The Sportage offers a balance of design, tech accessibility and low-cost upkeep that appeals to city drivers seeking effortless daily operation. With a strong resale outlook and advanced driver-assist features, it positions itself as an upper-tier option priced like an entry model.

Editors note: All vehicle pricing was sourced from Edmunds.com.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 6 Affordable 2026 SUVs Experts Recommend
The far left's War on History is much broader than just Confederate historical monuments, and Charlottesville, Va. is a prime example of that. Not only did the Peoples Republic of Charlottesville destroy monuments paid for by local citizens year ago of General Robert E. Lee and General "Stonewall" Jackson, but they also removed monuments to other historical figures. Both the city government and UVA have been involved in desecrating monuments there.

One monument removed by the far left in Charlottesville, Va. was to Revolutionary War Brigadier General George Rogers Clark, whose victories against the British secured the midwestern region for the new United States. The site of the monument is to be replaced by a park dedicated to Indian tribes. Another removed monument was to western explorers Lewis and Clark (unrelated to Gen. Clark). Even a statue of President Thomas Jefferson, who founded UVA is under threat although it is so far still standing.

https://thefederalist.com/2025/11/14/after-removing-statue-of-american-hero-uva-plans-to-replace-it-with-massive-land-acknowledgement/

One bright spot is that the statue of General Lee on horseback is in the process of being duplicated by the Sons of Confederate Veterans and will be placed in a memorial park on land owned by the SCV on a major interstate highway near Charlottesville.
If there was ever any doubt about the totalitarian nature of the United Nations, their advocacy of politically motivated censorship at the ongoing UN climate conference in Brazil exposes it for all to see. They want an Orwellian style "Ministry of Truth" to dictate what information is allowed to be published on posted concerning "climate change / global warming", a doctrine that the UN itself has been the main proponent of for years. They claim ten countries have already agreed to implement their restrictions on free speech.

The UN recently tried and failed to use climate as the excuse for its first ever UN global tax, which was to be on CO2 emitted by merchant ships.. President Trump stopped that by declaring he would impose sanctions on any country that cooperated with that tax. The proposed tax was then voted down. Speaking to the UN General Assembly earlier this year, Trump called climate alarmism "the greatest con job ever perpetrated on the world".

This is not the UN's first effort at censorship on climate issues. At the 2022 World Economic Forum globalist confab in Davos, a UN official revealed that they had worked with Google to suppress information on any other views on climate from Google searches.

This is the same "climate conference" where Brazil clear cut 100,000 trees in the Amazon rain forest to prepare for the conference. And they call it an "environmental" conference????????

https://dailycaller.com/2025/11/13/un-cop30-global-climate-denial-disinformation/

https://redstate.com/heartlandinstitute/2025/11/14/at-cop-30-continued-irrelevance-and-failure-is-in-the-air-n2196152

https://freebeacon.com/columns/why-no-one-cares-about-the-climate-conference/

https://www.zerohedge.com/technology/climate-circus-cop30-capital-bazaar-and-moral-rejuvenation

https://www.rebelnews.com/we_ve_finally_arrived_in_bel_m_and_were_greeted_with_climate_scolding_at_the_airport

https://www.realclearenergy.org/articles/2025/11/13/ten_years_after_the_paris_climate_agreement_climatism_is_crumbling_1147153.html

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-15236133/Scientist-climate-change-hysteria-nonsense.html

This move by the UN reminds one of the description of climate alarmism by former president of the Czech Republic Dr. Vaclav Klaus as "a budding totalitarian ideology that is the greatest threat to freedom, democracy, and prosperity in the world today."

Meanwhile, President Trump had another victory in court to block construction of another boondoggle offshore wind farm that had been greenlighted by the Biden regime, this one a project with 141 wind turbines off the coast of Nantucket, Massachusetts.

https://legalinsurrection.com/2025/11/federal-judge-clears-trump-administration-to-revoke-ma-offshore-wind-project-approval/

This British TV documentary, broadcast nationally on the UK's Channel 4, is an example of the scientific information that the fascist weasels at the UN want to suppress in their totalitarian censorship scheme:
Martyn Bullerwell, CEO Telefonica Tech; Ellen Dickson, Telefonica Tech; Tom Gray, Kainos plc, and Margaret Canning, Business Editor, Belfast Telegraph, at the Belfast Telegraph IT Awards 2025 in partnership with Telefonica Tech. Pic: Peter Morrison

Margaret Canning, Belfast Telegraph Business Editor, with Tom Gray of Kainos and Ellen Dickson of Telefonica Tech at the Belfast Telegraph IT Awards 2025 in partnership with Telefonica Tech. (Photo by Peter Morrison)

A tech boss who helped build Kainos plc in Belfast into a FTSE 250 company has been honoured for his outstanding contribution to the industry at the 2025 Belfast Telegraph IT Awards.

Tom Gray, now a strategic advisor to Kainos plc, started working at the company in 1990 and served as its chief technology officer for 20 years.

He was presented with the Outstanding Contribution to the IT Sector award at the Belfast Telegraph IT Awards in partnership with Telefonica Tech UK&I.

Tom was one of 19 winners announced at the glittering ceremony on Friday night at Belfast's MAC Theatre.

It was hosted by comedian Andrew Ryan and attended by hundreds of people from the IT industry in Northern Ireland.

Its the sixth year in which the Belfast Telegraph has held the IT Awards, and the fifth year of its long-running partnership with Telefonica Tech UK&I.

Martyn Bullerwell, CEO of Telefonica Tech UK&I, said: We at Telefonica Tech are delighted once again to be the title sponsor of the Belfast Telegraph IT Awards.

"These awards help showcase Northern Irelands exceptional IT talent and the significant innovation within the sector.

"I want to wholeheartedly congratulate all of the people, companies, teams, and departments amongst the winners and indeed on the shortlist this year.

"It has been a true honour and fantastic night celebrating the winners of the 2025 Belfast Telegraph IT awards in partnership with Telefonica Tech.

Martyn Bullerwell, CEO Telefonica Tech; Ellen Dickson, Telefonica Tech; Tom Gray, Kainos plc, and Margaret Canning, Business Editor, Belfast Telegraph, at the Belfast Telegraph IT Awards 2025 in partnership with Telefonica Tech. Pic: Peter Morrison

Eoin Brannigan, editor-in-chief of the Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life, said: Congratulations to all our winners tonight  you should be very proud of your achievements.

"Its been fantastic for us to hold the IT Awards, joining forces with Telefonica Tech UK&I for the fifth year in a row.

"Thank you to Telefonica Tech for their support, and for helping us stage the most eagerly-awaited event in the IT industry calendar.

"Were so grateful to our judging panel, led by Peter Russell, for their hard work in choosing the winners from a really stunning range of entries this year.

Mr Gray was praised by the judging panel as somewhat of an understated legend in the NI software industry.

The panel said: Having invested a career with NI indigenous firm Kainos, in 2025 Tom stepped down from his role as group chief technology officer and director of innovation.

"In addition to his contributions at the company level, where he has been a superb advocate for early tech talent - Tom stands out for his dedication to the wider software industry and for helping the entire ecosystem thrive as it does today.

This has seen him volunteer countless hours, days, months and years advising and advocating for initiatives that have helped accelerate the industry - further borne out in his countless commitments to initiatives with universities, schools, the sponsoring of programmes, and as a founding member of Software NI.

And they said he showed no signs of slowing down despite retiring earlier this year, leading development of a report by Matrix NI on AI and the future of work, and accepting an appointment as Professor of AI and innovation at Ulster University.

Winners of the 2025 Belfast Telegraph IT Awards in partnership with Telefonica Tech UK&I

Best Public Sector or Third Sector IT Project of the Year sponsored by Allstate

Winner: Business Services Organisation - encompass

AI Project of the Year sponsored by Fujitsu

Winner: Liberty IT

Cybersecurity Project of the Year sponsored by eir evo

Winner: Clanmil Housing Group

IT Project of the Year sponsored by Ocho People

Winner: Business Services Organisation - encompass

Mobile App of the Year sponsored by Options IT

Winner: Cranmore Consulting

Young IT Professional of the Year sponsored by Leaf IT

Winner: James Galbraith, Cranmore

Best Place to Work in IT  under 100 employees sponsored by Kindred Collection

Locate a Locum

Best Place to Work in IT  100 employees or more sponsored by NI Jobfinder

Winner: Allstate

IT Supplier of the Year sponsored by Openreach

Salt Communications

IT Services Company of the Year sponsored by S3 Creative

Winner: StormHarvester

IT Woman of the Year sponsored by Ulster University

Alison McFadden, Continu

Development Team of the Year sponsored by ARC Regulatory

Rapid 7 AppSec Team

Data Scientist of the Year sponsored by Bearing Point

Aileen Ward, Allstate

Excellence in Workplace Health and Wellbeing sponsored by NB1

Fujitsu

IT Team or Department of the Year sponsored by Tata Consultancy Services

Continu

Best Use of CSR sponsored by Expleo

Options IT

IT Professional of the Year sponsored by Hubflow

Eve Brennan, Business Insider

Overall IT Team or Company of the Year 2025 sponsored by Telefonica Tech

Options IT

Outstanding Contribution to the IT Sector sponsored by Telefonica Tech

Tom Gray
Ever since being taken to his first classical concert in Belfast as a wide-eyed 13-year-old, Sir James Galway and his flute have been virtually inseparable.

Hes carried it around the world, playing alongside some of the biggest names in music, taking to the stage at the great concert venues in cites around the world. Hes even taken it to Sesame Street.
BritCards: We could be looking at a digital Windrush

Two civil liberties experts tell Review how government identity schemes of the past could shape Labours controversial digital ID plan in Northern Ireland

The Government's proposed BritCard digital ID scheme

Gillian Halliday Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 08:00

By 2029, if Sir Keir Starmer has his way, each person living in the UK will be in possession of a digital ID  or BritCard, as its been dubbed  a system that the Labour Prime Ministers Chief Secretary Darren Jones has insisted would form the bedrock of the modern state. Trouble is, the issue of national identity is a thorny one in Northern Ireland  along with concerns over adverse impact on our civil liberties.
Inside the east Belfast Irish-medium school eyeing expansion: The last time we had protest banners, we got over 1,500 emails of support

Scoil na Seolta in east Belfast  which is NIs first integrated Irish-medium school  has ambitious expansion plans. Here, its principal and chair of trustees speak to Mark Bain about community transformation and changing attitudes to language

I hope we can grow to P7: Principal of Scoil na Seolta, East Belfast

Mark Bain Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 09:00

Just over a decade ago, it was a dream that became a passion. A possibility became a probability, then a reality. And what they want now is normality.
Ex-moderators grandson says hed be spinning in grave over scandal

Church has failed to learn lessons of past, says cleric who stood by minister after false affair claims

Rev Bill Atkins

Brett Campbell Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 08:24

The grandson of a former Presbyterian Moderator says his grandfather would be spinning in his grave over the latest scandal to hit the church.
Parts of Irish Republic and Wales hit by flooding and power outages

The Met Office has warned of flooding in NI this weekend. Photo: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker Press

A weather alert for parts of Northern Ireland today has ended  but Storm Claudia has still caused chaos elsewhere in the UK.

The Met Office had issued a yellow warning for persistent and heavy rain.

The warning started overnight and ended at midday on Saturday, amid warnings of flooding and possible travel disruption.

The Met Office has warned of flooding in NI this weekend. Photo: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker Press

News Catch Up - Friday 14 November

The alert covered counties Armagh and Down.

However, other parts of the UK and Ireland have faced major disruption as the storm swept in.

And there are warnings now that snow could be on the way for parts of the UK as a cold snap arrives in the wake of Storm Claudia.

Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Dan Holley said: "As Storm Claudia retreats to the south, high pressure to the north west will drive a cold northerly flow from the Arctic across the UK.

"This will bring much colder conditions than of late and, whilst generally drier than recent days, there will also be a risk of wintry hazards, such as snow and ice.

"There will be widespread frosts across the UK, with temperatures dipping as low as -7C in places next week, and daytime temperatures staying in single figures across the country.

"Couple this with a brisk northerly wind, and there will be a marked wind chill. This will be a notable change in our weather after a prolonged spell of above-average temperatures."

Meanwhile, some places are recovering from the effects of Storm Claudia.

In the Irish Republic, power outages were reported and floods hit some areas.

Thousands of homes and businesses were without power on Saturday morning as rain weather warnings lifted in the south-east.

Dramatic flooding was reported in Portarlington, on the border of counties Laois and Offaly, despite no rain warning being issued for those counties.

Fallen trees have blocked roads in parts of the Republic and social media videos appear to show sea foam being dramatically whipped onto shore at Loughshinny, Dublin and Bray, Co Wicklow.

The ESB said less than 5,000 homes, farms and businesses were without power as of 9am and that crews had been responding to outages since Friday.

A spokesman said the storm brought a "modest impact" to electricity infrastructure in line with previous such wind warnings.

A status orange rain warning was in place for counties Dublin, Wexford and Wicklow until 8am on Saturday, while a status yellow rain warning was in place in 10 other counties, mostly along the east and south coasts, until 9am.

Weather forecaster Met Eireann warned people to be alert for "significant" flooding and hazardous travelling conditions.

Meanwhile, a major incident was declared in South Wales after "severe and widespread flooding" brought on by the "devastating" impact of Storm Claudia.

Emergency services and local teams have been carrying out rescues, evacuations, welfare checks and moving Friday's storm-hit residents to safe places since the incident was declared in Monmouth at 1.30am on Saturday, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said.

The Welsh Government said: "Storm Claudia has caused significant flooding in parts of Wales overnight, which continues to affect homes, businesses, transport and energy infrastructure.

The areas cover by flood warnings include: River Monnow at Watery Lane, Over Monnow; the River Wye at Monmouth defended areas; by the River Monnow at Forge Road and Osbaston; and the River Monnow at Skenfrith.

It comes as Storm Claudia, which brought heavy downpours that battered parts of England and Wales on Friday, is set to be replaced with below-freezing temperatures as a yellow alert for cold weather was issued.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued the cold weather warning for parts of the Midlands and northern England from Monday, and the Environment Agency has warned flooding will continue throughout the weekend.

Storm Claudia was named by the Spanish Meteorological Agency and brought heavy rain and strong winds to Spain and Portugal this week.
Ban can ang nhap e thuc hien chuc nang nay!
A former BBC governor and senior Ulster University figure who was also the first chairman of Invest NI has died.

Prof Fabian Monds, who was from Omagh in Co Tyrone, passed away peacefully after a long illness. He was 85.

He was appointed BBC National Governor for Northern Ireland in 1999, with his term of office extended to 2007.

Born on November 1 1940, Prof Monds was educated at the Christian Brothers Grammar School, Omagh and then Queen's University Belfast.

He was formerly Provost of Magee College and Pro Vice-Chancellor for Planning at the then University of Ulster.

He worked at Purdue University, Indiana and at Queen's University in Belfast.

Professor Monds authored two books and one course text, more than 80 other academic publications and numerous articles.

A key figure in public life, he also chaired Invest NI, the economic development agency, and the Northern Ireland Centre for Trauma and Transformation in Omagh.

He became a CBE in 1997.

Ulster University said: The university was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former colleague, Professor Fabian Monds, Director and Dean of the Institute of Mathematics and later Pro-Vice Chancellor of the Derry~Londonderry campus.

We will remember Prof Monds with great fondness.

John Healy, chairman of Invest NI, said Prof Monds had helped shape the vision and foundations of Invest NI when it was set up in 2002.

His leadership and foresight helped create an organisation that continues to drive economic growth, attract investment, and support businesses across Northern Ireland.

Mr Healy added: Professor Monds will be remembered not only for his intellect and vision but also for his warmth and generosity of spirit.

"On behalf of the board and staff of Invest NI, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife Eileen, his family, and all who knew and admired him.

A funeral notice said he passed away peacefully, after a long illness, at his home at Oak Country Green in Londonderry.

He was described as a beloved husband, loving father and devoted grandfather.

The notice added that he was dearly loved and will be sadly missed by the entire family circle.

His funeral will leave his home on Monday November 17 for requiem mass at St Columbas Church, Long Tower, in Derry, followed by interment in Ballyoan Cemetery.
A flooded rugby field in Monmouth after the area was hit by heavy rain (Ben Birchall/PA)

Snow could be on the way for parts of the UK as a cold snap arrives in the wake of Storm Claudia.

The storm, named by the Spanish meteorological service, hit the UK on Friday and had a devastating impact in Wales, where a major incident was declared.

Dozens of people were rescued from their homes or evacuated in the town of Monmouth, in south-east Wales, following severe flooding when the River Monnow burst its banks.

Some 119.6mm of rainfall was recorded at a Natural Resources Wales rain gauge at Tafalog in Gwent, south-east Wales, in the 12 hours to 6am on Saturday, while 80.6mm was recorded over the same period at Suckley, Worcestershire, the Met Office said.

Floods minister Emma Hardy said the weather is now more settled but there remains a risk of ongoing river flooding.

The Environment Agency reported that 20 properties in England had flooded as a result of Storm Claudia, including some in Cumbria.

There were 42 flood warnings in place in England on Saturday evening.

As the clear-up gets under way, a cold snap that could bring snow and a marked wind chill is expected in the coming days.

Emergency services in Monmouth tackle a flooding incident (Ben Birchall/PA)

Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Dan Holley said: As Storm Claudia retreats to the south, high pressure to the north west will drive a cold northerly flow from the Arctic across the UK.

This will bring much colder conditions than of late and, whilst generally drier than recent days, there will also be a risk of wintry hazards, such as snow and ice.

There will be widespread frosts across the UK, with temperatures dipping as low as -7C in places next week, and daytime temperatures staying in single figures across the country.

Couple this with a brisk northerly wind, and there will be a marked wind chill. This will be a notable change in our weather after a prolonged spell of above-average temperatures.

Punishing winds also hit north-west Wales and north-west England during Storm Claudia, including 63mph recorded at Aberdaron in Gwynedd and 68mph at Warcop Range in Cumbria.

In a statement, the Welsh Government said: Storm Claudia has caused significant flooding in parts of Wales overnight, which continues to affect homes, businesses, transport and energy infrastructure.

The River Monnow in Monmouth (Ben Birchall/PA)

If you are affected, please follow official advice from NRW (Natural Resources Wales), emergency services and your local authority.

Those who have been working tirelessly in dreadful conditions to keep people safe were thanked along with communities who are helping neighbours.

NRW has imposed four severe flood warnings amid fears there may be danger to life.

River levels on the Monnow reached record levels, exceeding those recorded during Storm Dennis in 2020 and Storm Bert last year, the NRW said.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said fast-moving water and blocked routes had created challenging conditions.

Gwent Police, Welsh Ambulance Services NHS University Trust (WAST), Sara (Severn Area Rescue Association), Mountain Rescue, the Coastguard, and colleagues from neighbouring fire and rescue services have been involved in the operation.

Fallen trees damaged by Storm Claudia near Aberystwyth (Sue Lithgow/PA)

The areas covered by flood warnings include: River Monnow at Watery Lane, Over Monnow; the River Wye at Monmouth defended areas; by the River Monnow at Forge Road and Osbaston; and the River Monnow at Skenfrith.

Susie Martinez, 42, was rescued from her flat in Monmouth along with her children on Saturday at 3.30am.

She told BBC Radio Wales: We had to climb out of the window and into a boat. It was terrifying.

Business owner Catherine Hall, who opened to customers despite the damage, told the BBC: Its six weeks until Christmas and I dont know what will happen before then. Its devastating. Theres thousands and thousands worth of stock gone.

Peter Fox, the Welsh Conservative Member of the Senedd for Monmouth, described the situation in the area as extremely bad.

He said: I personally havent seen it so bad for probably 40 years, certainly in Monmouth since defences were put in place there.

Plaid Cymru representatives for South Wales East called for support for those hit by the flooding.

The partys deputy Senedd leader MS Delyth Jewell, said she had tabled a question to the Welsh Government on the issue, added: It must be very distressing for people to see their homes and businesses water damaged.

A team of British Red Cross team volunteers are at a local leisure centre helping people who were evacuated in Monmouth.

Monmouthshire County Council, which reported a number of road closures, told people to avoid trying to get into town or make unnecessary journeys because of the severity of the flooding and the ongoing operation.

Emergency services gather to offer assistance in Monmouth (Ben Birchall/PA)

Transport for Wales told passengers not to try to travel between Shrewsbury and Newport as it could not guarantee they would reach their destination by road.

A spokesman said the railway between Newport and Hereford remains closed until Monday, there is ongoing disruption between Hereford and Shrewsbury and both the Abergavenny and Pontypool & New Inn stations were shut.

No trains were running on Saturday between Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Airport after a fallen tree blocked the railway.

National Rail also told passengers in England and Wales to check before they travel as some services could be disrupted.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a cold weather warning for parts of the Midlands and northern England from Monday, and the Environment Agency has warned flooding will continue throughout the weekend.

The cold weather alert is in place from 8am on Monday until 8am next Friday and covers the East Midlands, West Midlands, North East, North West and Yorkshire and The Humber.
NIs governance was revolutionised 40 years ago  but only now is gulf between ferocious unionist rhetoric and private compromise emerging

Memoirs and declassified files show that what unionist leaders were saying in public was very different in private  and also show Irish diplomats deep respect for the RUC and ordinary Protestants who helped them

Forty years ago today, Margaret Thatcher and Garret FitzGerald signed the Anglo-Irish Agreement

Sam McBride Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 08:00

Forty years ago today, Margaret Thatcher and Garret FitzGerald signed an agreement which revolutionised Northern Irelands governance and precipitated one of the most dangerous periods of the Troubles.
New BBC news chief on his NI grounding: I knew diddly squat about the place

Jonathan Munro already facing calls to stand down after defending Trump edit

Jonathan Munro

Ivan Little Sat 15 Nov 2025 at 21:00

The man whos moved into the hot seat as head of news at the crisis-torn BBC has spoken of how he cut his journalistic teeth in Belfast, where he knew diddly squat about the place.
Belfasts Man with the Golden Flute, Sir James Galway, returned to the city on Saturday to receive an Ulster University Honorary Doctorate.

At a special ceremony held at the UUs Belfast campus the world-renowned flautist (85) was awarded the doctorate in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to classical music, his international artistic influence, and his enduring connection to the city of his birth.
If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us

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Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Cloudy with snow showers mainly during the morning. High 23F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 60%..

Tonight

On and off snow showers this evening. Breaks in the overcast later. Low 13F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 30%.
NORTH ADAMS  When Jess Sweeney returned from her second maternity leave to Savvy Hive, she was excited to pour more energy into work. But the store was in crisis.

"I realized things were kind of crumbling beneath my feet and I was about to hit a wall," said Sweeney, who opened the secondhand clothing store on Main Street in 2022 after a year selling inside the nearby Berkshire Emporium & Antiques. She estimated her maternity leaves cost the store at least $20,000 in staffing while she was gone.

If something didn't change, she'd have to close or take out a loan. So she asked the community for help.

In less than a week, it came through.

Sweeney launched a fundraising campaign for the business on Monday with a goal of $10,000  about half the business' debt. By Thursday afternoon, the campaign reached its goal with over 200 donations.

"I thought, even if I get half, it will set me up for success," said Sweeney, who said her business has a responsibility to right itself.

She said the support was "really wild" and she was shocked by the amount of contributions from locals and from those across the country who passed through the store once while traveling.

"It is very clear that this community wants businesses like Savvy Hive to exist and the downtown to thrive," she said.

Savvy Hive sells secondhand and upcycled clothing and accessories. Recently, they've expanded into offering repairs and alterations as well as a pilot rental program for suits and formal dresses. Sweeney said the response to the rental program has been promising.

With the community's boost, she is focused on stabilizing the business. That first involves checking with her landlord, Scarafoni Associates, to make sure it can stay at 53 Main St.

After that, she plans to promote the store's rental program and repairs at regional vending events. Eventually, she hopes to create a fund for struggling small businesses.

Battling 'convenience culture'

Since fundraising, she said multiple former store owners messaged her that they wished they weren't afraid to ask the community for help before deciding to close. Sweeney said her Main Street neighbors at the Plant Connector encouraged her to reach out for help.

"I was like, 'this could be a good thing for her because she has a lot going on with her babies,'" said Plant Connector co-owner Emilee Yawn.

Even as a single person, Yawn said she and her co-owner, Bonnie Marks, work 60 to 70 hours a week and put most of what they make back into the business. They also shut down the Plant Connector's Pittsfield location, but not because the location performed poorly.

"We're very supported, but we work really hard to keep it going and burnout is a real thing," said Yawn.

When asked if it was ever easy to own a small business, Marks, who previously owned general stores, replied: "Never."

Although she feels supported by the community, Sweeney said all small businesses now face a constant battle against the "convenience culture" of Amazon. She called it heartbreaking to regularly meet locals who didn't know her store existed. Some just don't go downtown when they can have it shipped to their door, she said.

"If you want the downtown to thrive, you have to go there and use it," she said.

'No support' for small business paid leave

Sweeney juggles operating Savvy Hive while being a mom. A couple weeks after opening the business, Sweeney had her first child. Child care waitlists were so long that, even if she could afford it, she couldn't get into any schools. She opted to bring her child to work until finally finding child care when her first was six months old.

But she still wasn't able to find full-time day care; she had to staff the store during its final hours so she could pick her daughter up at 4 p.m. each day. When eight months pregnant with her second kid, she couldn't take time off because she said she couldn't afford staffing.

"There is no structural support for small businesses to take paid leave," she said. "You should not have to choose between your family and serving your community."

A reality for many small businesses owners is needing a second job. Sweeney is also director of the Roots Teen Center, and Bear and the Bee Bookshop owner Rye Howard works another job. Yawn said that her and Marks "just live poorly."

"It's always a labor of love," said Yawn. "It's a choice we do make but ... it's really cool when you start to meet the people at small businesses. You don't get that at the big shops."

Sweeney knows her chosen path made her path difficult, but she didn't have regrets.

"It was a wild choice, but I would not have it any other way," she said.
About this series This article is the fourth installment of Revolution: Berkshires, a yearlong monthly series exploring Berkshire Countys surprising role in the American Revolution. Too often, the story of Americas founding is told as if it began and ended in Boston, Philadelphia or Washington. But history is rooted in place, and here in the Berkshires, town meetinghouses, farms and village greens became laboratories of democracy where the principles of liberty and self-government took hold. Through this series, historian Justin F. Jackson traces how ordinary Berkshire residents  farmers, merchants, ministers, landowners and newcomers  debated, resisted and acted in ways that helped shape the nations founding ideals. As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, these local stories remind us that Americas revolution was not just born in distant halls of power, but also in small communities like ours. Their choices and words still echo today.

To drive east on Route 71  through Alford and Egremont, onto Route 23, down into Great Barrington, up into the hills of Monterey, Sandisfield and Otis  is to travel a road that made the United States possible.

Two-hundred fifty years ago this winter, an expedition led by Henry Knox followed this route, over which the heavy guns were hauled that finally forced besieged Britons to evacuate Boston.

To defeat England, then, patriots first had to conquer the Berkshire Hills.

These hills, not roadside granite markers marking Knoxs route since the 1920s, may be the best monument to his noble train of artillery  the Continental Armys greatest logistical feat of the American Revolution. Traversing this topography by car today fails to convey the near-Sisyphean task of transporting 60 tons of cannon some 300 miles from upstate New York to Boston.

Yet the legend of Knox and his artillery train is not just a tribute to human (and animal) effort, but a tale that obscures how revolution transformed New Englands frontier.

A formidable figure

In that process, Henry Knox cut a large figure. Six feet, 3 inches tall and, by 1782, weighing 280 pounds, his physique alone distinguished him from peers. Yet Knoxs intellect was equally substantial.

Born in 1750, Knox was 9 years old when his father died. To support his mother and numerous siblings, he dropped out of Boston Latin and began clerking for a Boston bookseller. Luckily, the bookseller recognized Knoxs curiosity and allowed the boy to bring home whatever book he liked. Enjoying literature, Knox taught himself French, philosophy and mathematics.

Knox also developed a belligerent disposition. Running with a Boston street gang, at 17 years old, he became mesmerized by Bostons volunteer artillery company, The Train, and joined them.

Books and rebellion

Knox was no fire-breathing radical. Present at the State House on March 5, 1770, just before British troops fired on a mob and killed five, he implored British Capt. Thomas Preston and his redcoats to retreat.

The next year, Knox started his own London Book Store, a name signifying its cosmopolitan stock of Books in all Languages, Arts, and Sciences. Overnight, it became a resort for patrons including British army officers, Tory ladies and John Adams. Simultaneously, Knox taught himself the military science of artillery and engineering.

To be sure, Knox knew Sons of Liberty leaders Samuel Adams and Paul Revere. He even surveilled a tea ship, the Dartmouth, before Bostonians dumped its cargo in the harbor. Following clashes at Lexington and Concord, Knox and his fiancee, Lucy Flucker, escaped. As redcoats and loyalists looted his store, Knox joined militia at Cambridge, then helped Gen. George Washington design siege fortifications.

The cannon march

In mid-November 1775, Knox, about to be commissioned a colonel, received Washingtons orders to go to upstate New York and bring Ticonderogas precious guns to Boston.

Reaching that fort on Dec. 5, Knox determined to move 59 guns, from cannons to mortars and howitzers, weighing a total 119,000 pounds, or 60 tons. Assembling teamsters and carpenters, Knox used flatboats to move them across Lake George and built 42 sleds to carry them overland. Despite myth, and plans for 80 yoke of oxen, Knox mostly used horses. (He also expected to reach Boston in no more than 17 days.)

Aided by Christmas snowfall, the expeditions lead section reached Albany on January 4, 1776; five days later, its last segment crossed the Hudson a fourth and final time.

Fearing Tory interference, Knox moved with dispatch. His advance section entered Alford on Jan. 10 after ascending heights, Knox wrote in his journal, from which we might almost have seen all the Kingdoms of the Earth.

The next day, Knoxs vanguard, passing through the Green Woods, as the area between Great Barrington and Westfield was known, halted at Blandford.

It was almost a miracle, observed Knox, that people with heavy loads should be able to get up & down such Hills as Are here.

But New York teamsters, facing melting snow and a steep descent into the Connecticut River valley, refused to proceed. Knox secured two oxen teams and persuaded them to push on. At Westfield, Knox fired Old Sow, his 24-pounder, for curiosity seekers who never tired of examining our desperate big shooting irons, as one teamster recalled.

After the victory

Knox arrived at Cambridge on Jan. 27, having lost a single gun, in the Mohawk River.

On March 5, Gen. William Howe, commanding British forces at Boston, woke up to find Knoxs guns atop Dorchester Heights, threatening his men-of-war. On March 17, Howes 120 ships evacuated nearly 10,000 troops, dependents and 1,100 Loyalists.

Among them were the Fluckers, Knoxs Tory in-laws, who had inherited the Waldo Patent, a half-million acres on the Maine frontier. Massachusetts confiscated it, but Knox after the war wrangled an appointment as the state official in charge of disposing Loyalists seized property, and sold his in-laws lands to a straw buyer. Yet squatters, many of them destitute Revolutionary War veterans, had already carved homesteads from this vast estate.

Knox had gained fame and wealth from his military career and marriage. Organizing the Delaware River crossing that enabled victory at Trenton, in 1776, the next year he established the Springfield armory. In 1795, having served 10 years as the countrys first secretary of war, Knox retired to Maine to manage his estate. At Thomaston, he built a regal mansion, Montpelier.

Naturally, Knox moved to eject squatters from his land, or force them to pay for it. But Maines liberty men resisted Knox and other great proprietors in the courts and forests. In this authors hometown  part of a region which Knoxs agents described as the grand seed plot of sedition and insurrection  armed settlers, disguising their faces with soot, drove away a surveyor and destroyed his plans and compass.

In 1805, Mainers voted Knox out of the legislature. The next year, Knox, heavily indebted, died after ingesting a chicken bone. Like Stockbridge Mohicans who moved west under his watch, Maine frontiersmen thwarting Knoxs ambitions raised an unsettling question: For whom, exactly, had this revolution been waged and won?

Correction: This article has been corrected to reflect that Washington ordered Knox to bring Fort Ticonderoga's cannon to Boston.
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While the exact placement of the footsteps that pushed 60 tons of history-making armaments through the Berkshires to Boston is an interesting question of history, what could drive such intrepid steps is the riddle that most resonates a quarter-millennium later.
Alice was a wonderful human being, said Jim Youngerman, the exhibit's curator and an old friend. She was very free and open and fun and lyrical. Those traits, he said, shone through her art.
Access this story and all of our stories with 24/7 unlimited access.

Donald Morrison is an Eagle columnist and co-chair of the advisory board. He contracted measles during the same 1953 outbreak that affected David Edmonston. The opinions expressed by columnists do not necessarily reflect the views of The Berkshire Eagle.
India & Ethiopia pave way for greater synergies in pharmaceutical development

November 15, 2025 | Saturday | News

Ethiopia explores opportunities for collaboration with Indian pharmaceutical manufacturers

image credit- shutterstock

On November 14, 2025, a high-level Ethiopian delegation led by Frehiwot Abebe, State Minister of Health, held crucial discussions with key representatives from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) and the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC). The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in areas such as regulatory frameworks, pharmaceutical standards, and investment opportunities in the Indian pharmaceutical sector.

The meetings are part of ongoing efforts to enhance Ethiopias pharmaceutical capabilities and explore opportunities for collaboration with Indian pharmaceutical manufacturers. These sessions are expected to lead to deeper regulatory harmonisation and more accessible drug testing and certification processes between the two nations.

One of the key takeaways from the discussions was the emphasis on recognising and adopting Indian Pharmacopeia (IP) standards for the testing and certification of drugs.

The delegation expressed a strong interest in leveraging IPs robust regulatory framework to facilitate smoother and more efficient pharmaceutical trade and investment. The recognition of Indian Pharmacopeia will not only streamline testing processes but also provide significant cost advantages, thereby making Indian-made drugs more competitive globally.

Both delegations agreed on next steps including structured B2B engagements, follow-up delegations, capacity-building workshops, and a roadmap for IndiaEthiopia pharmaceutical cooperation.
Whale Tank Biocatalysts hosts Startup-Investor Meet WT 3.0 in Hyderabad

November 15, 2025 | Saturday | News

Event held in strategic collaboration with the Biotechnology Industry Research Advisory Council (BIRAC)

Whale Tank (WT) Biocatalysts, a leading startup accelerator, successfully concluded its third annual Startup-Investor Meet, WT 3.0, at the Indian School of Business (ISB), Hyderabad.

The event was held in strategic collaboration with the Biotechnology Industry Research Advisory Council (BIRAC), Government of India, aligning with the national BioE3 mission. WT 3.0 focused on catalysing funding for Deeptech startups across critical sectors, including Healthcare, Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Food, and Agritech.

Building on the successes of WT 1.0 and WT 2.0, which facilitated funding for over 100 startups with participation from 50+ investors in the last two years, this years edition promised and delivered even greater opportunities. Several WT-incubated startups are now nearing major commercial milestones, with two projects progressing toward securing $500 million in investments.

Prof.Reddanna, Executive President , FABA (Federation of Asian Biotechnology Association) in his address to the startups, explained the dynamics of startup ecosystem in Biotechnology and critical success factors for their success.

A highlight of WT 3.0 was the official launch of WTs pipeline product, NEXASWEET. This innovative, stem cell attractant-based sweetener is positioned to offer significant health benefits, including healing and repairing gut inflammation. NEXASWEET is among the first products developed by a BIRAC-funded startup to move toward commercialization, demonstrating the tangible results of the accelerator's efforts.

Dr Taranjit Kaur, the representative from BIRAC, DBT (Department of Biotechnology), addressed the audience, underscoring the vital importance of the Government of India's BioE3 mission in driving the nation's bio-economy goals.

Out of nearly 80 applications, the WT team shortlisted 20 startups for the main pitching session and selected 50 more for dedicated networking and elevator pitch opportunities with investors. The pitching startups showcased excellent innovations at a high Technology Readiness Level (TRL), with many already at post-Proof-of-Concept (post-POC) or commercialised stages, primarily in the Healthcare, Medical, Life Sciences, and Biotechnology sectors.
Winters first strong rainfall sent water cascading through parts of Gazas sprawling Muwasi tent camp as the territory struggles to cope with flooding and devastated infrastructure after two years of war.

Residents attempted to dig trenches to keep the water from flooding their tents, as intermittent rain that began on Friday dripped through tears in tarpaulins and makeshift shelters.

The bursts soaked families scant belongings. Strong winds can also topple tents and hamper attempts to gather scarce food and supplies.



Palestinians grab sacks of flour from a moving truck carrying World Food Programme aid as it drives through Deir al-Balah in central Gaza (Abdel Kareem Hana/AP)

Two weeks ago, Bassil Naggar bought a new tent on the black market for the equivalent of about 541, because the summer sun had worn his old tent thin.

Still, rainwater was leaking through on Saturday.

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I spent all (Friday) pushing water out of my tent, Mr Naggar said, adding that his neighbours tents and belongings were wrecked.

Water puddles are inches high, and there is no proper drainage.

Barefoot children splashed in puddles as women made tea outside under dark clouds.

Some people tried to shelter in destroyed buildings, even those at risk of collapse, with gaping holes covered by pieces of plastic.



Amal Mahmoud hangs up clothes just outside her tent in a temporary camp on the beach in Deir al-Balah, in the central Gaza Strip (Abdel Kareem Hana/AP)

According to the United Nations, Muwasi was sheltering up to 425,000 displaced Palestinians earlier this year, the vast majority in makeshift temporary tents, after Israels war with Hamas displaced most of Gazas population of over two million people.

Muwasi had largely been undeveloped sand dunes before the Israeli military designated it a humanitarian zone early in the war.

The Israeli defence body in charge of humanitarian aid in Gaza has said it is allowing in winterisation materials including blankets and heavy tarps, but aid organisations warn the efforts are far from sufficient when winter temperatures plummet and the wind whips off the Mediterranean.

Meanwhile, the first stage of the ceasefire agreement is nearing its end.

The next and even more challenging stage calls for the implementation of a governing body for Gaza and the deployment of an international stabilisation force.

It is not clear where either stands and another looming question is the proposed disarming of Hamas.



Tents are set up inside a gutted apartment building in Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip (Abdel Kareem Hana/AP)

The UN Security Council on Monday is expected to vote on a US proposal for a UN mandate for a stabilisation force in Gaza despite opposition from Russia, China and some Arab countries.

The war broke out on October 7 2023, when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting 251 hostages.

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They still hold the remains of three hostages, which Israel is demanding before progressing to the second stage of the current ceasefire that took effect on October 10.

Hamas has said the territorys devastation is complicating efforts to find the remains, but Israel has accused the militant group of dragging its feet.

Israel has been returning the remains of 15 Palestinians for the remains of each Israeli hostage.

Gazas Health Ministry on Saturday said Israel had returned 330 remains, and only 97 had been identified upon their return.

Health officials in Gaza say identifications are complicated by a lack of DNA testing kits.

Israels military campaign in Gaza has killed 69,100 Palestinians, including many women and children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants in its figures.

The ministry, part of the Hamas-run government and staffed by medical professionals, maintains detailed records viewed as generally reliable by independent experts.
US president Donald Trump was eager to claim victory this week after the record-long US government shutdown ended on his terms. But almost immediately, the White House was forced to battle a familiar bogeyman: Jeffrey Epstein.

A trove of emails released by Democrats in the US House of Representatives on Wednesday reignited questions about Mr Trump's relationship with the disgraced financier and how much the president knew about Epstein's alleged abuse of girls.

While the White House swiftly dismissed the effort as a Democratic smear campaign, the headline-grabbing messages underscored a potential vulnerability for Mr Trump that could shadow the president and his Republican Party into next year's midterm congressional elections.

Mr Trump has weathered controversies that would have sunk many politicians. But the Epstein saga has proven to be a persistent liability that disrupts Mr Trump's message discipline and complicates his effort to keep his coalition focused on policy rather than scandal.

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Some Republicans break ranks

Many of Mr Trump's most loyal supporters believe the government is withholding sensitive documents about Epstein, a convicted sex offender who died by suicide in jail in 2019, that would reveal his ties to powerful public figures.

A handful of Republicans have broken ranks to join Democrats seeking a full documents release, drawing a rebuke from Mr Trump, who called them "soft and foolish".

"I think the hope was that it would die down and go away, and that was never going to be the case," said Republican strategist Terry Sullivan, who headed secretary of state Marco Rubio's 2016 presidential campaign.

"It's an impossible issue to handle effectively," he added. "It's impossible to prove a negative. If he (Trump) didn't know anything, how do you prove it?"

Pia Carusone, a Democratic strategist and partner at political consultancy SKDK, said the specter of Epstein could depress Republican turnout in the 2026 midterm elections if new revelations keep dripping out.

Some Trump supporters for years have fanned conspiracy theories about Epstein's clients and the circumstances of his death. While Mr Trump has not been accused of wrongdoing related to the wealthy financier, he has faced a backlash from supporters over his administration's refusal, citing privacy concerns, to disclose all Epstein-related investigative files.

"The MAGA base has a way of attaching to insider issues and blowing them up," Ms Carusone said. "I think he's very vulnerable on this."

While nine in 10 Republicans say they approve of Mr Trump's performance in the White House overall, just four in 10 say they approve of his handling of the Epstein files, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted in October.

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The White House said it would not be distracted by the Epstein saga.

Democrats and the mainstream media are desperately trying to use this hoax as a distraction to talk about anything other than Democrats getting utterly defeated by President Trump in the shutdown fight. These emails prove literally nothing, White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson said.

Unity shows cracks

The president demonstrated near-total control over his party during the 43-day government shutdown. Even with this week's Epstein emails, some prominent conservative influencers downplayed messages that suggested Epstein believed Trump "knew about the girls".

The messages also showed Trump disapproved of his behaviour and forced Epstein out of his Mar-a-Lago social club in Florida.

Mr Trump has repeatedly denied any knowledge of Epstein's alleged abuse and sex trafficking of girls.

Republican unity has not held around the Epstein issue overall, and Democrats have still managed to cause trouble for Mr Trump.

On the same day the government reopened, a petition supported by all House Democrats and four Republicans got the final signature needed for a vote on a bill to compel the US Justice Department to release all files related to Epstein.

Situation Room

High-level Trump aides failed to convince representative Lauren Boebert to take her name off the Epstein petition, going so far as to meet with her in the Situation Room, a White House space typically used for pressing national security matters.

Republican representative Nancy Mace, another Trump loyalist, also did not budge in her support for the petition. A source familiar with the situation who spoke on condition of anonymity said that when Ms Mace and Mr Trump were unable to connect by phone, she wrote a message to the president that referenced her experience as a sexual assault survivor.

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The recalcitrance of Ms Boebert and Ms Mace, members of a Republican congressional conference that has shown almost complete obedience to Mr Trump, suggests the president will have to navigate internal dissent carefully to ensure the Epstein saga does not fracture his party heading into the midterm elections.

After days of declining questions from reporters, Mr Trump broke his silence on Friday night, lamenting how the Epstein affair had distracted from his accomplishments.

"When you talk about the Epstein hoax, what happens is, you're not talking about how well we've done," Mr Trump told journalists aboard Air Force One.

Prominent Democrats

"They want to waste people's time, and some of the dumber Republicans like that." Those comments came just hours after Mr Trump announced that he would ask the Justice Department to investigate Epstein's ties with JPMorgan and prominent Democrats.

World Trump withdraws support for Marjorie Taylor Greene Read more

The US bank said it regrets its past association with Epstein, who was a client between 1998 and 2013, and did not help him commit "heinous acts".

Democratic and Republican strategists said the last few days have illustrated the Epstein scandal's remarkable staying power and its ability to commandeer any news cycle.

The continued attempts by the White House to suppress or deflect news around the saga have had the effect of prolonging the attention paid to it, they said.

"I don't think anyone could argue that they handled it well," veteran Republican strategist Alex Conant said, "because we're still talking about it".
Donald Trump says he will sue the BBC next week after the corporation apologised but declined to compensate him for its edited version of a 2021 speech broadcast by Panorama.

Speaking to reporters on board Air Force One on Friday, Mr Trump said: Well sue them for anywhere between 1 billion dollars (860.05 million) and 5 billion dollars (4.3 billion), probably sometime next week.

The BBC apologised but said it refused to pay financial compensation.

The corporation said the splicing of the speech was an error of judgment.

Still, it rejected his compensation demands, after Mr Trumps lawyers threatened to sue the BBC for one billion dollars in damages unless a retraction and apology were published.

Mr Trumps lawyers had given the BBC a 10pm Friday deadline to respond.

Earlier in the week, Mr Trump said in an interview with Fox News that the BBC had defrauded the public over the edit, which made it appear as if he was explicitly urging people to attack the US Capitol on January 6 2021.

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Separately, Mr Trump told GB News in an interview broadcast on Saturday he felt an obligation to take legal action against the public broadcaster.

Im not looking to get into lawsuits, but I think I have an obligation to do it, he said.

This was so egregious. If you dont do it, you dont stop it from happening again with other people.

Chairman Samir Shah has sent a personal letter to the White House to apologise for the editing, and lawyers for the corporation have written to the presidents legal team, a BBC spokesperson said.

The spokesperson added: While the BBC sincerely regrets the manner in which the video clip was edited, we strongly disagree there is a basis for a defamation claim.

Mr Trump told GB News he has had a lot of success litigating against news organisations.

Because its fake news, he said. But Ive never had anything so fake as the BBC.

Ive been doing this for a long time, Ive never seen anything like (the BBC edit). Thats, thats the most egregious.

President Donald Trump boards Air Force One at Joint Base Andrew on his way to Mar-a-Lago (Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP)

I think that was worse than the Kamala (Harris) thing with CBS and 60 Minutes.

In July, US media giant Paramount agreed to pay Mr Trump 16 million dollars (13.76 million) to settle a lawsuit over a 2024 CBS interview with Ms Harris, the former vice-president and 2024 Democratic presidential nominee.

Mr Trump said his administration would be finding out a lot of things over the next few months through litigation.

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Mr Trump also said the lawsuit would probably be filed someplace in the US, but commented that litigation in the UK moves a little bit quickly.

The Panorama scandal prompted the resignations of two of the BBCs most senior executives: director-general Tim Davie and news chief Deborah Turness.

The programme, broadcast a week before the 2024 US election results, spliced two clips together so that Mr Trump appeared to tell the crowd: Were going to walk down to the Capitol and Ill be there with you. And we fight. We fight like hell.

On board Air Force One, Mr Trump told the Daily Telegraph UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer was very embarrassed by the incident and said he would speak with him over the weekend.

He said: I think I have to do it. Theyve even admitted that they cheated They changed the words coming out of my mouth.

The people of the UK are very angry about what happened.

BBC Director-General Tim Davie has resigned (Lucy North/PA)

The broadcaster said it will not air the Panorama episode Trump: A Second Chance? again, and published a retraction on the shows webpage on Thursday.

It said: This programme was reviewed after criticism of how President Donald Trumps 6th January 2021 speech was edited.

During that sequence, we showed excerpts taken from different parts of the speech.

However, we accept that our edit unintentionally created the impression that we were showing a single continuous section of the speech, rather than excerpts from different points in the speech, and that this gave the mistaken impression that President Trump had made a direct call for violent action.

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The BBC would like to apologise to President Trump for that error of judgment.

A spokesperson added: The BBC has no plans to rebroadcast the documentary Trump: A Second Chance? on any BBC platforms.

On Thursday, reports said that the BBC faced separate accusations of misleading viewers about Mr Trumps 2021 Capitol speech more than two years before the Panorama edit aired.

In an episode broadcast in June 2022, Newsnight reportedly played an edited version of his speech, similar to the one used in the Panorama programme.

A BBC spokesperson said about the fresh claims, reported by The Telegraphs Daily T podcast: The BBC holds itself to the highest editorial standards. This matter has been brought to our attention and we are now looking into it.
US president Donald Trump said on Friday that he is withdrawing his support and endorsement of Republican lawmaker Marjorie Taylor Greene.

"I am withdrawing my support and endorsement of 'Congresswoman' Marjorie Taylor Greene, of the great state of Georgia," Mr Trump posted on Truth Social.

Ms Greene, a member of the House of Representatives, has long been a reliable ally and fierce defender of Trump but in recent weeks she has taken positions at odds with the White House and some of her fellow Republicans.

Formerly close allies, Mr Trump's relationship with Ms Greene has frayed.

The Georgia congresswoman has spoken out on behalf of the victims of paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein, and called for the release of all of the files related to him.

Mr Trump's name surfaced in emails released this week, while he has called for an investigation into Democrats linked to Epstein.
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NationalSexism Opinion Here I am, yet another woman wrecking the joint Julia Baird Journalist, broadcaster, historian and author November 15, 2025  4:00am

November 15, 2025  4:00am Save 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 166 View all comments

Have you heard? Women have been on the march, wrecking stuff with horrible traits like empathy. Ive been so busy ruining things that I barely had time to file this column. But then if I didnt, Id be passing up the opportunity to ruin this page again. Ever since I was a little girl, Ive dreamed of destroying the places where I toil, which is possibly why I may have been the only person actually delighted to see The New York Times run a headline asking: Did women ruin the workplace? Illustration by Dionne Gain After all, Im so ancient I remember the workplaces I first walked into as a teenager, where smoke stained the ceilings, personal assistants were called sec-ROOT-aries and office affairs were conducted on office chairs. Bosses openly bullied subordinates. My mechanic had pictures of naked women spreadeagled on his wall, my university lecturer was intent on mass seduction, and my local restaurant manager offered my friend a promotion for a blow job. Whod want to tinker with those utopias?

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But first, to explain this headline. Later changed to Did Liberal Feminism Ruin the Workforce?, it accompanied a transcript of a podcast interview with columnist Ross Douthat with two conservative writers and feminist critics. Prompting this discussion was an article one of them, Helen Andrews, wrote called The Great Feminisation, in which she argued that workplaces have been transformed by women entering in greater numbers, leading to wokeness and the derision of male values. When women make up a substantial portion of employees, she argues, female commitment to empathy over rationality, safety over risk, cohesion over competition will destroy an industry from within. Boo, empathy! Yuk, cohesion! Related Article Analysis

Gender equality Did women ruin the workplace? The dangerous irony of The New York Times viral opinion piece As she said on the podcast: The pathology in our institutions known as wokeness is distinctively feminine and feminised. And that, in a very literal sense, our institutions have gone woke because there are more women in them than there used to be. Women are more gossipy, more likely to be conflict-averse, Andrews believes, more emotional and less likely to tolerate behaviour like pinning porn on the walls, having push-up contests and kissing co-workers while drunk (with or without consent presumably). Its unclear how this stuff improves productivity but Andrews reckons women have been a real downer and will somehow prevent professions from getting to the truth. Her tone is panicked: The Great Feminisation is truly unprecedented. Other civilisations have given women the vote, granted them property rights, or let them inherit the thrones of empires. No civilisation in human history has ever experimented with letting women control so many vital institutions of our society, from political parties to universities to our largest businesses. Even where women do not hold the top spots, women set the tone in these organisations, such that a male CEO must operate within the limits set by his human resources VP. We assume that these institutions will continue to function under these completely novel circumstances. But what are our grounds for that assumption?

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Golly. She continues: It is still controversial, even in conservative circles, to say that there are too many women in a given field or that women in large numbers can transform institutions beyond recognition in ways that make them cease to function well. Related Article Opinion

Gender I used tears to sway my husband. It was a snapshot of the wider gender divide Parnell Palme McGuinness Columnist and communications adviser There is scant evidence of this malfunction. Andrews concedes more men are CEOs and in senior positions, but she cites random stats such as 60 per cent of Joe Bidens staff having been female. She does concede that, while 80 per cent of vets are now female, this has not, as far as she knows, had catastrophic effects. Phew. But what about nurses? Teachers? Are those professions smoking ruins? The field that frightens me most is the law, she writes. All of us depend on a functioning legal system, and, to be blunt, the rule of law will not survive the legal profession becoming majority female. I mean  her examples are some of the hamfisted attempts on college campuses to manage sexual assault  a worthy aim, youd imagine  but is this the best example of the law gone awry? What about the number of perpetrators who go free? In systemic terms, what about the Jim Crow laws  designed and upheld by white men  that enforced racial segregation under Americas state and local laws as late as the 1960s?

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And by woke, is she referring to diverse? Where does race come in here? This is no small matter, Andrews says, but a potential threat to civilisation. View post on X Hmmmm. Isnt the timing of all of this curious? We have a world where political leaders have failed to address the threat of climate change, where autocracies are on the rise and wars in Sudan and Gaza have led to horrific large-scale deaths and human rights abuses, where we are galloping merrily along the path to the broad dominance of AI without fully understanding the consequences or placing proper guardrails in place, where social media is chaining our kids to screens and making them feel bleak, where the oceans are swelling with plastic and algal blooms, all presided over by mostly male leaders, and male-dominated judiciaries  but it is women who wish to work without harassment and discrimination who are threatening societal collapse? There is a debate to be had about the DEI industry, about its efficacy and implementation, as well as the widening gap between the views of men and women, but this is not it. Its crude, unevidenced, lacking in proportion and logic, relying on dated stereotypes.

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So, whats really going on here? Douthat closes with this question: Which is a better scenario: figuring out the best way for men and women to work together at work? Or having more distinctively male and female workplaces, and then men and women rejoin in the romantic or domestic sphere? Related Article Opinion

Sex & relationships Bad Romance: Women are becoming more like men, but men are not becoming more like women Maureen Dowd New York Times columnist And this is why I am writing about this thesis this week, instead of dismissing it as MAGA-fuelled trolling of professional women, lapped up by the manosphere. It is because I am increasingly seeing irrational, archaic sentiments about women expressed in public forums, along with suggestions that they should not vote, that they should stay home, look pretty, and stop wrecking things. Its weird. Andrews is right on one thing: feminisation is extremely rare in Western history. But do you know what isnt? The suspicion of women, the desire to shut them up, contain them, strip their standing or authority, draw them back to the hearth, sew their lips together.

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And yet, somehow, we go on, ruining the world with an insistence on respect, care and civility, day after day after day. Julia Baird is a journalist, an author and a regular columnist. Her latest book is Bright Shining: How grace changes everything. Get a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up for our Opinion newsletter.
Too Close for Comfort: Nadav Lapids Film Ken at the Viennale

28. 10. 2025 / Muriel Blaive

cas cteni 8 minut

"Ken" means yes in Hebrew. But in Nadav Lapids latest film, this single word opens into a moral labyrinth. It can mean agreement, consent, obedience  the yes one sometimes gives in surrender to power, war, and violence. But it can also be the yes to the desperate temptation to escape and leave behind the inhumane regime in which one becomes complicit by virtue of living in it  a yes to moral integrity and freedom. The tension between these meanings runs through every frame of the film and gives irony and depth to its title.



The film lasts two and a half hours and plays on the occasionally profound vulgarity of the Tel Aviv rich party scene, so much so that I very nearly left in the first five minutes  yet it is complex, demanding, and deeply courageous. Lapid himself was there to present it, as well as for the Q&A afterwards. He looked almost as exhausted by life as his main character, Y, but found a rapport with the audience when the film was applauded, by no means an obvious outcome considering the topic  the way Israeli society is experiencing the aftermath of 7 October and the war in Gaza.





A camera that cuts to the bone





At the Q&A, someone in the audience asked Lapid why the camera stayed so close to the actors faces, often uncomfortably near. He replied: Because it cuts to the bone  the situation were all in now. Were in the middle of it, very close, too close for comfort. That sentence could stand as the key to the entire film. Ken refuses distance. It forces us to look without flinching, without the safety of detachment. It looks directly at the present, at a world that is ours  confused, fearful, angry, and uncertain. Lapids camera does not accuse from a moral height but looks from within. The closeness is physical, moral, and emotional. We are never allowed to forget that we are all part of the same human fabric.





In essence, the film tells the story of what happens when a nation of victims begins to lose its humanity. It shows, with a slow, burning clarity, that pain and memory have hardened into fanaticism; that fear and patriotism have been instrumentalized to create the conditions for inflicting violence and death upon others; and that people can be led to believe that their victims (some of whom are simultaneously perpetrators against them) are inhuman. The film thus shows that the dehumanization of the victim inevitably leads to the dehumanization of the perpetrator, and this goes for both sides.





The artist and the regime





Ken is also a film about collaboration, not only the participation of politicians or soldiers in the war propaganda and everyday brutal violence, but the temptation of artists to collaborate with power or money, all be it for legitimate existential reasons  the commission at stake here would allow the protagonist musician and his family to escape the hellhole that their native country has become for them. Should Y save his own future at the cost of prostituting himself for a regime he despises? He accepts the commission with considerable misgivings (a scene in which he literally crawls on the floor and licks the boots of his patron is quite disturbing) and writes a song that will make inhumanity seem acceptable, even noble. Through his case, Lapid thus explores what happens when art ceases to resist and begins to serve. When talent, sensitivity, and imagination become tools of propaganda, they lose their soul. The film asks, quietly but insistently: at what point does survival become complicity?





This question will feel painfully familiar to readers of Britske listy. Under the Czechoslovak communist regime, many faced a trap that was morally resonant: the subtle, everyday compromise of conscience; the professional routine humiliation required to stay afloat or protect ones family. Some collaborated out of fear, others out of ambition, and others yet out of conviction that they were helping something larger or safer. Lapids film touches the same wound, though in a different, more dramatic landscape of life and death: the loss of integrity under pressure, the corrosion of truth by necessity.





An explicit and praiseworthy refusal of competitive martyrdom





And yet Ken does not erase the other horror, the one that seems to have swallowed all others: the horror of October 7th. It is there too  the shock, the pain, the unbearable grief of that day, the collective PTSD state in which Israel has found itself ever since. Lapid shows that both truths can coexist, that we must have the courage to face both horrors at once, to hold them together without denying either. To see only one is a form of comfort; to see both is an act of conscience.





Among the films most haunting moments is the scene shot on the so-called Hill of Love, the steep but tiny hill overlooking Gaza where, over the years, numerous Israelis have gathered to watch and cheer during bombardments. Lapids crew had no permission to film there, but they went anyway. The scene they brought back is haunting. From that hill, Gaza appears as a fragile line on the horizon, veiled in smoke, punctuated by the low, rhythmic thud of explosions. The image is strangely quiet yet filled with unspeakable violence. It captures, with terrible simplicity, the intimacy of distance  how near one can be to suffering and death and still look away. As Lapid confessed at the Q&A, he doesnt even know if this level of bombing was exceptional or an everyday occurrence. How could he? This area is closed.





Lapid also explained that when they were filming that sequence, the army arrived and tried to chase them away. He asked his crew waiting at the bottom of the hill to delay the soldiers as long as possible. By some amusing twist, the officer who came to enforce the order turned out to be fascinated by filmmaking, particularly by the art of camera placement. The crew seized this opportunity and began giving him an impromptu lesson in cinematography that lasted for hours  long enough for Lapid to finish shooting the scene uphill. The story is somewhat absurd, but it contains a strange tenderness: a fleeting moment when curiosity triumphed over authority, and when art managed to outlast power, if only for a few minutes.





The cost of conscience





The screening at the Viennale was a quiet success. The cinema was almost full, even though it was in the middle of a workday, and the audience listened to Lapid with healthy curiosity and respect. I was proud of Vienna once again  proud that the film was met not with outrage or defensiveness but with thoughtfulness and empathy.





Lapid said that Ken was shown once in Jerusalem. So, it was possible, he said, with a faint, weary smile  only two people tried to interrupt the screening back there. Im not surprised: Im willing to bet there are many moderate Israelis who just dont have enough of a voice at present. Yet Lapid fears it may be his last film. There is no distributor for the film in Israel, and he doubts that he will ever again find financial support for his films. He made Ken knowing that it might end his career. That knowledge lends every frame a rare moral weight: it is the work of a man who has chosen truth over safety.





What Lapid depicted touched me also because I have several Israeli friends who, like the main character and his family, have emigrated or are tempted to do so because they can no longer bear to be part of what they now feel is a nation of perpetrators. Their pain is conflicted  a mixture of love, guilt, and despair. They are torn between belonging and moral exile, between loyalty and conscience. This cuts close to the historical bone, especially when one remembers that the modern state of Israel was created by people who fled other countries for precisely the same reason: because they could not bear to remain part of a system of persecution. Now, tragically, we are witnessing a certain historical reversal.





Yes to humanity





Although Ken grows from the soil of the Israeli present, it speaks far beyond it. It is a meditation on the universal mechanisms of moral collapse  on how easily ideals turn into ideology and violence, how quickly fear breeds obedience, how the instinct for safety becomes the justification for cruelty. Its world is not distant from ours. The same patterns of collaboration, self-censorship, and moral fatigue can be recognized in every society that begins to lose its center.





Ken is not a comfortable film, nor is it meant to be. It is not a call to despair, but to lucidity. It insists on looking straight at the wound. It asks us to feel when it would be easier to remain numb. It speaks not only about Israel and Gaza, but about the fragility of moral clarity everywhere  about the everyday struggle to remain human when fear and ideology demand obedience and conformity.





I left the cinema shaken, moved, and silent, filled with admiration for a filmmaker who continues to speak when it would be so much easier, and safer, to remain quiet. I am grateful that such a film exists, and that, against all odds, it was made at all.

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NationalQueenslandPregnancy The reason why some Queensland women are opting for unassisted births Courtney Kruk November 16, 2025  6:00am Save 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 3 View all comments

Olivia Ruby was 21 years old when she gave birth to her first child at Brisbanes Mater Hospital. It was not the birthing experience the young mother had envisaged: shed been in prodromal labour, a false type of labour that involves real and strong contractions, for a month before the baby began to arrive at 41 weeks. The actual labour was exhausting, lasting days. By the time doctors told her she needed a caesarean to give birth to her son, Ruby felt there were no other options. Lockyer Valley mother-of-three Olivia Ruby chose to freebirth after a hospital birth and midwife-supported homebirth. Its very easy beforehand to go [into the birthing experience] and say, Im going to be able to advocate for myself and tell them no  but when youre actually in labour, its quite difficult to communicate, she says.

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The hospital experience and a traumatic birth injury motivated the Lockyer Valley mother to explore alternative options, choosing a homebirth with a private midwife when she fell pregnant with her daughter. Related Article Exclusive

Healthcare Inside freebirthing: Empowerment, distrust and a growing dogma But that didnt have the outcome she hoped for either. The midwife, a woman Ruby trusted and had formed an emotional connection with during her pregnancy, acted several times without her consent, including pulling the babys body out between two contractions. Its quite normal to have one contraction to birth the head and one contraction to birth the rest of the body  she pulled her out while I was yelling at her stop, stop, Im not contracting.

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When Ruby fell pregnant for a third time, she decided to have a freebirth, without the support of clinical staff. I just didnt want to go into birth to fight anyone because I wasnt very good at fighting [the first] time, she says. I just felt that I would be emotionally safest to birth with my close friend, my partner and my children, and thats how it went. Focus on freebirths Freebirths refer to births that take place outside the hospital or medical system, usually at home, with no medical professional present.

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While some women choose to birth alone or with their partner, others are supported by a doula or birth keeper  practitioners who are not legally recognised and not usually medically trained. While not a new practice, freebirthing has been the subject of renewed scrutiny following the death in September of 30-year-old influencer Stacey Warnecke, who suffered a serious haemorrhage during a freebirth. Stacey Warnecke died in September after giving birth at home. Instagram The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Australian College of Midwives issued a joint statement this month calling for tougher legislation to punish doulas who provide clinical tasks during homebirths, and expressly restrict labour and birth management to appropriately trained, registered practitioners. Maternity advocates said such legislation would restrict womens choice and autonomy, and drive those with a mistrust of birthing systems further away from medical support.

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Queensland Health Minister Tim Nicholls said he was concerned by reports of harm and death during freebirths without doctors or midwives in attendance, but did not explicitly say whether tougher legislation would be considered. Related Article Exclusive

Women's health Victoria and NSW consider laws to restrict rogue birth workers Here in Queensland, we make it quite clear that we support only specialist obstetricians, GP obstetricians and midwives as being qualified and appropriately trained to independently manage labour and birth, Nicholls says. When things go wrong outside a hospital, the first thing that happens is the Queensland Ambulance Service is called and the patient is rushed to hospital. A hospital remains the safest place for a woman to be if a birth goes wrong. But other mothers and advocates, including Ruby, say discussion of changing laws distracts from why many women choose to birth outside the system in the first place.

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These laws just feel dangerous. They feel like theyre trying to control women instead of [addressing] other things that we know would improve outcomes, Ruby says. Why women choose to birth outside the system Dr Melanie Jackson did her PhD on why women turn their backs on the hospital system. The private homebirth midwife and host of The Great Birth Rebellion podcast found many freebirthed because of inadequate maternity care options, or because they believed it was the safest path. Freebirth is a symptom of a maternity care system that hasnt been able to meet womens needs, Jackson says.

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And so women have taken responsibility for their own care and their own needs by making this radical decision to freebirth. Some of those needs stem from a lack of choice, high rates of intervention in hospitals, and previous birth trauma or obstetric violence. Maternity Consumer Network founder Alecia Staines says statistics show one in three women experience birth trauma, mostly through the hospital system. She said a recent survey of Queensland women uncovered abhorrent experiences, from labouring mothers who had been vaginally examined without consent, to others who had been disrespected by health professionals.

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Its all well and good [for peak medical groups] to be pointing the finger [at unregulated workers and freebirthers], but this wouldnt have flourished if they had their own backyard sorted, Staines says. Birth trauma and obstetric violence: Birth trauma can refer to physical or psychological injury or damage that occurs through birth. Obstetric violence is abuse or mistreatment of women during pregnancy, labour or post-birth, and covers a range of actions, such as invasive treatments, non-consensual examinations, verbal humiliation and physical violence. Jackson says her research concluded birthing outside the system is a medically induced issue that wouldnt exist if the maternity system was truly meeting the needs of women. Staines agrees. You dont get radicalism when youve got everything else sorted. Birthing from home

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Like Ruby, Philippa Scott chose to freebirth after two traumatic medically supported births. I had my first baby in a private hospital with an obstetrician. It ended in a caesarean section I didnt need, Scott says. I then went to a public hospital and had a vaginal birth after caesarean, but I was still the recipient of obstetric violence and coercion. Philippa Scott is the co-ordinator of Homebirth Australia and treasurer of Homebirth Queensland. She is a strong advocate for womens choice and autonomy. There were no homebirth midwives available for baby number three, so Scott decided to freebirth. Her fourth was also born at home, but with a male midwife in attendance. Jackson says many of the women she interviewed wanted to homebirth with a midwife or use a publicly funded program but couldnt access services.

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Private homebirth midwives can cost up to $7000. In the 10 years since her research was published, publicly funded homebirth programs across the country have grown from 16 to about 20. Related Article Opinion

Pregnancy One in three Australian mothers suffers birth trauma. Im one of them Sophie Walker Writer and podcaster There is only one, introduced in July last year and based out of Sunshine Coast Hospital, across all of Queensland. Scott, now the co-ordinator of Homebirth Australia, lives in Noosa Hinterland, not far from the Sunshine Coast homebirth program. Shes supportive of the initiative, which assisted more than 40 women to homebirth in its first year. But she says shes heard from women who werent accepted or were removed during pregnancy due to strict eligibility criteria.

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Women are freebirthing because theyve planned for a homebirth all the way along and then all of a sudden, theyve been told theyre no longer eligible  and not for reasons that are evidence-based, Scott says. Queenslands Chief Midwife Officer, Liz Wilkes, says shes seen a rise in demand for homebirthing services, particularly on the back of COVID. While other hospital services have expressed interest in the homebirth program, she says expanding to other regions will take time. We cant really increase access without having the workforce to do that, Wilkes says. My biggest priority at the moment is getting the right qualified people with the right skills in the right place  so that all Queensland women can access quality maternity care. Choice, access and autonomy

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Some women are philosophically aligned with freebirth and ideologically opposed to medical intervention. But all the mothers and practitioners who spoke to this masthead said respecting womens birthing choices and autonomy, and improving mainstream maternity care, were priorities. The woman has to be the person whos got bodily autonomy and is able to make choices about their care, Wilkes says. Despite understanding the risks associated with birth, many women prefer a homebirth or freebirth. Olivia Ruby Scott notes those choices are based on access. There is definitely a why [behind people birthing outside medical systems], and if we centre the conversation around that, rather than blame, what is the solution, and what are women asking for? Ruby is unsure if she would freebirth if she fell pregnant again but says despite recent tragedies, she hopes people can take a more compassionate view of the choices women make.

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Most women have fears themselves about whether [freebirth] is the right decision to make. That definitely went through my mind many a time, she says. I think pretty much every mother wants their baby to be born well and healthy, and to have all the medical care that they need  but you cant decide for someone else what they want to do. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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NationalVictoriaCity life A real passion project: Make-up mogul named Melburnian of the Year Cara Waters November 15, 2025  10:59pm Save 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 13 View all comments

Mecca founder Jo Horgan has been named Melburnian of the Year in recognition of the impact the business she founded 28 years ago on Toorak Road has had on the city. The City of Melbourne award comes after Horgan opened Meccas flagship three-storey department store dedicated to all things beauty in Bourke Street Mall in August. Jo Horgan at the new Mecca flagship store in Bourke street. Kelly Chandler Horgan says it is an extraordinary honour to receive the accolade, especially when you look at those who have already received it and the incredible impact theyve had on this city. Horgan runs Mecca with her husband, co-chief executive Pete Wetenhall, and the couple have grown what was a single store into Australias biggest cosmetics retailer, with 110 stores around Australia and New Zealand and more than 7000 employees.

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Trends Mecca defends signing up kids without parents permission Melbourne has everything  its the home of art, culture, beauty, fashion, and inspiration, Horgan says. Thats why my husband, Pete, and I chose to make it our home, to raise our family here and start the business here. Thats why when we wanted to build the largest beauty destination in the world, our most ambitious project to date, it had to be in Melbourne. As Mecca is a privately owned company, it has limited reporting requirements, but its most recent annual report, filed in June, reported revenue of $1.2 billion in the 12 months to the end of June 2023. The transformation of what was the David Jones menswear store into Meccas flagship ran over budget and behind schedule, becoming at times the nightmare of our dreams according to Horgan. The risk has paid off, with between 50,000 to 70,000 people visiting the store each week. To see our collective vision come to life  and really there was the most incredible team on this project who dreamed big and then made it happen  to see how people have embraced every aspect of it, is phenomenal, she says.

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Previous winners of the Melburnian of the Year include 2024 winner Rebecca Scott, co-founder of social enterprise STREAT, and 2023 winner Kon Karapanagiotidis, founder of the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre. Jo Horgan in 2002 at Meccas Toorak road store. Andrew Curtis Lord Mayor Nick Reece says honouring Horgan was a change from previous years recognition of Melburnians involved in charity or advocacy. Its certainly been some time since a business leader has won the Melbourne award, so isnt it great to see, he says. The Melbourne awards recognise greatness in different aspects of Melbourne life, including great success in the business world for the good of Melbourne. Reece says the opening of Meccas flagship store was a magic moment for Melbourne.

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It was a shot in the arm when we needed it most, he says. That was a real passion project for Jo Horgan, and I know firsthand because she was on the phone to me every week about aspects of what they were doing there. Related Article Exclusive

City life An enormous risk: A first look inside Meccas Bourke Street megastore Reece says Horgan is an inspiration to other businesswomen in Melbourne and has built something truly extraordinary in Mecca. As the mayor of Melbourne, I couldnt be more delighted about the opening of the Mecca mega store, he said. But as the father of three teenage girls, I couldnt be more terrified for my bank balance. Other winners recognised at the Melbourne Awards at the Town Hall on Saturday night include cancer genetics researcher Dr Belle Lim, who was awarded Young Melburnian of the Year, and Melbourne Place Hotel, which won the city design award. Make the most of your health, relationships, fitness and nutrition with our Live Well newsletter. Get it in your inbox every Monday.
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PoliticsFederalLiberal Party Opinion Numbers to horrify all Libs: Labor can win a parliamentary vote on female MPs alone George Megalogenis Columnist November 15, 2025  4:00am

November 15, 2025  4:00am Save 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 483 View all comments

There is a numbers game that Labor MPs play among themselves that cuts through every argument about the state of democracy in Australia, and the location of our political centre. It has a particular resonance on the 50th anniversary of the dismissal of the Whitlam government, as one side of the old two-party system is governing without scrutiny while the other keeps pressing the self-destruct button in opposition. Illustration by Simon Letch The game, as one senior federal Labor minister explained it, goes as follows. Imagine the division bells are ringing for a vote on government legislation in the House of Representatives. If every bloke on our side stayed in their offices, wed still win the vote, he said. The 50 Labor women would outnumber by seven the 34 Coalition men and nine Coalition women on the opposition benches. Labor would need the support of just four of the 13 MPs on the crossbench to pass the legislation. The crossbench, incidentally, contains 10 women  one more than the Kings loyal opposition at the moment.

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The government has no intention of pulling a gender stunt. But it would be an interesting exercise to contemplate if, and when, the Liberals replace their first female leader Sussan Ley with either Angus Taylor or Andrew Hastie next year. If you could travel back to 1975 and tell Gough Whitlam and Malcolm Fraser that one of their parties would be facing an existential crisis in 2025 while the other had just been re-elected in a landslide  and with a majority of its MPs being women  both would assume, without hesitation, that Labor would be in the doghouse of opposition. Neither leader then could have contemplated a world in which the defeated Liberals would have adopted, at the instigation of the National Party, a climate-change platform that risked further alienating the swinging voters in the cities who decided the past two elections. Malcolm Fraser and Gough Whitlam leave Billy McMahons memorial service in 1988. Robert Pearce/Fairfax Media The Labor Party that Whitlam and Fraser knew was the one prone to civil war in the 20th century. The Liberal-led Coalition was the pragmatic outfit, willing to represent middle Australia as it was, not as a radical fringe wished it to be. Now lets flip the observation and think what Whitlam and Fraser would say of their respective tribes if they were still alive today.

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Whitlam would probably repeat the observation he made of Bob Hawkes government on the 10th anniversary of the dismissal in 1985: There are many people in the Labor Party who are so frightened of putting a foot wrong that they wont put a foot forward. Anthony Albanese heard a version of this critique in his first term from Labors old economic reform guard in Paul Keating and Bill Kelty. Albanese has a landslide to show them that his cautious approach worked to set up a second-term landslide. Related Article Political Sketch

The Dismissal The Dismissal: Norman Gunstons moment, while a boy got high on a king Fraser would have the more interesting perspective once you got past the predictable condemnation of his former party, which he quit in protest after Tony Abbott became leader in 2009. Fraser was the last Victorian to lead the Liberals to a federal election victory, in 1980, and the last to win a majority of seats in both Melbourne and Sydney, in 1977. He was also the only Liberal prime minister to represent a rural electorate, Wannon in Victorias western districts. The other eight, Robert Menzies, Harold Holt, John Gorton, Billy McMahon, John Howard, Abbott, Malcolm Turnbull and Scott Morrison, all served middle and upper-middle-class electorates in Melbourne or Sydney. Only Morrisons old seat of Cook, in Sydneys Sutherland Shire, remains in Liberal hands today. Sussan Ley is the third Liberal opposition leader from a regional electorate after Fraser and Alexander Downer. History is not on her side as Downer did not survive to contest a federal election, and his old seat of Mayo in South Australia now belongs to the crossbench.

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There is an understandable reflex within the parties themselves as well as in journalism and academia to view Labor as the agent of change in our system, and the Coalition as defenders of a conservative status quo. Labor as the idealists doomed to short-term government, and the Coalition as the ruthless masters of power with a disinterest in social or economic reform. The way we remember the dismissal in the media reaffirms this bias. Every anniversary contains a checklist of Whitlams achievements and the scandals that brought down his government. Frasers role is secondary, even though he was the clear winner at the time. Fraser understood the electorate and the governor-general better than Gough in 1975, but he wasted the landslides that the people gave him in 1975 and 77. Related Article Watch

The Dismissal The Dismissal: How the most tumultuous day in Australian political history unfolded The modern cultural warriors of the Liberal Party have Fraser in their basket of deplorables alongside Turnbull. Yet Fraser was an agrarian socialist in his day. His mindset of intervention echoes the Coalitions approach to climate change. But this is not the reason why Fraser offers a window into the Liberal contemporary problems. Its the relationship with the Nationals. Fraser governed as his mentor Menzies had before him, and his rival Howard after him, with a broadly based city-country mandate and a junior Coalition partner that could be relied on when the big policy calls had to be made. It was Fraser, with the active support of Country Party leader and deputy prime minister Doug Anthony, who gave practical expression to Whitlams abolition of the White Australia Policy when they welcomed the Vietnamese refugees. Menzies before him had John McEwens support in running an expansive postwar migration program, while McEwen as trade minister was himself the catalyst for the relationship with Japan. Howard had Tim Fisher in his corner for both gun control and the goods and services tax.

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The continuity from Menzies to Fraser and on to Howard after the 13 years of the Hawke-Keating Labor government is easily forgotten because of a collective bias in the way the political class views the major parties. We tend to measure the success of Labor governments by their reform legacies, and Coalition governments by their election wins. Yet this game provides a counterintuitive storyline if you divide the past 50 years into two blocks, with another, less colourful anniversary at the dividing line, the 25 years since the introduction of the GST on July 1, 2000. Related Article Visual Analysis

Australia votes Inside the votes that swept Albanese to a generational victory  and it starts in his backyard You can track the demise of the two-party system and the end of the reform era across these two timelines. The 1975 election, the most bitterly fought since the conscription plebiscites of 1916 and 1917, was the last time the major parties had more than 95 per cent of the primary vote between them. Don Chipp took a shot at the duopoly at the next election in 1977 with the launch of his Australian Democrats and hit the bullseye. He claimed a primary vote of 9.4 per cent, at the expense of both sides  a feat Pauline Hansons One Nation party matched at its federal debut two decades later in 1998. The GST saved Howards government in 1998 by giving it a positive second-term agenda based around generous income tax cuts and family payments. Liberal pollster and strategist Mark Textor later said tax reform allowed Howard to repolarise the electorate into a left versus right contest on the economy.

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We had to refocus the agenda on an economic agenda, not Hansons fragmented social agenda, Textor told me. But the implementation of the GST almost killed the government in 2001 before the Tampa affair and the September 11 terrorist attacks on the US recast the prime minister as a wartime leader. The GST was the last contested economic reform to survive a change of government. Howards WorkChoices died with the fall of his government in 2007, while the removal of Julia Gillards carbon price and mining tax was the rallying cry for the return of the Coalition to office in 2013. That election, which Abbott won in a landslide, was the first of the postwar era in which the third-party and independent vote was above 20 per cent. This vote rose to 30 per cent in the 2022 election, which brought the Albanese government to power. Labors second-term landslide this year was achieved with a primary vote of just 34.6 per cent, well below the levels that prevailed during the partys three heaviest postwar defeats under Arthur Calwell in 1966 (40 per cent), Whitlam in 1975 (42.8 per cent) and Paul Keating in 1996 (38.8 per cent). There is no mystery to Labors emergence as the default party of government in our post-duopoly politics. It is the party most willing to see Australia as it is, in which the economy is centred on the labour of women, two-thirds of the electorate living in the capital cities, and the majority of the population being a first or second-generation migrant. The Coalition is not a viable alternative while it emits regional-based grievances on issues such as climate change, and city voters perceive that the Nationals, not the Liberals, are the ones calling the policy shots.

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George Megalogenis is an Australian journalist, political commentator and author. Get a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up for our Opinion newsletter.
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President Donald Trump announced Friday he is officially rescinding his endorsement of Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and attacked her in personal terms, while the congresswoman countered that Trump was trying to make an example of her to prevent the release of files on convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The presidents post marked a major political breakup weeks in the making  a dramatic intensification of a simmering back-and-forth between the two former allies, who grew apart as Greene criticized Trump on a number of fronts. It spilled into a messy exchange of blows as the controversy around Epstein again took center stage in Washington.

I am withdrawing my support and Endorsement of Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, Trump said in a post to social media, adding that Greene, who is running for reelection in 2026, has gone Far Left.

He added: She has told many people that she is upset that I dont return her phone calls anymore, but with 219 Congressmen/women, 53 U.S. Senators, 24 Cabinet Members, almost 200 Countries, and an otherwise normal life to lead, I cant take a ranting Lunatics call every day.



Greene has publicly warned in recent weeks that Trump has been too focused on foreign policy and is not doing enough to sell his domestic agenda at home  taking her message to outlets like CNN and ABCs The View. Greene, who arrived in Congress in 2021, has until recently been an ardent and outspoken Trump supporter.

The Georgia Republican responded to Trump in a social media post Friday, writing, Of course hes coming after me hard to make an example to scare all the other Republicans before next weeks vote to release the Epstein files.

MAGAMAGA

I have supported President Trump with too much of my precious time, too much of my own money, and fought harder for him even when almost all other Republicans turned their back and denounced him.

But I don't worship or serve Donald Trump.

I worship God, Jesus is my savior, and I serve my district GA14 and the American people.




THERE is no doubt about it  money follows money. While the rest of us were wondering about how we might balance the family budget, there were at least three Irishmen who didnt have a care in the world regarding that last week.

Barchester Healthcare sold recently to the American fund Welltower for approximately 6 billion, meaning that the three largest shareholders and principal beneficiaries of the sale are JP McManus, John Magnier and Dermot Desmond.

I suppose it is irrelevant that the three men in question are already billionaires; they wont say no to an extra few bob in their pockets. But to give credit where it is due, all three individuals already have connections with various charities that have benefited greatly over the years.

In fact, as a result of the sale of Barchester, it became known that the company donated over 200 million to the shareholders charities over the years, so we should applaud their good fortune as a result of the sale, rather than do what we Irish do best: moan about how some people have all the luck, while others dont.

Then I heard before the weekend that another extremely wealthy individual, in fact the richest man in the world, namely Elon Musk, has created another little bit of history: he is the first to negotiate a deal that will see his pay packet increase to 1 trillion if he hits certain targets over the coming ten years.

Nice going, considering earlier this year, when he was head, neck and heels in it with Donald Trump getting rid of federal government employees left, right and centre, his board of directors at Tesla were a little concerned, to say the least, about how the companys stock was performing.

Like politics, a week is a long time in business. But on the flip side of things, it can also result in some people losing everything they have, as it appears will happen to some independent operators of the now defunct Fastway courier company.

One such individual spoke about how, after attending a meeting where he was told there was little or no chance of him getting back any of the 40,000 he is owed by the company, he declined to pay 4 for a cup of coffee because he knew he really couldnt afford to do so.

Equally, he couldnt afford to put diesel in his van to bring the last few parcels he had in his possession back to the company depot, because he knew there was no way he was going to be paid to cover his costs, never mind his time and effort in doing so.

All he and his former colleagues can look forward to is a rather bleak Christmas for themselves and their families, now only a little over six weeks away. Im sure they have a lot more to worry about than just putting a turkey on the table.

While on the subject of turkeys, wouldnt your heart go out to the breeders of turkeys as, like one farmer in Carlow experienced last week, seeing their entire business being destroyed. There may be a shortage of fresh turkeys in a few weeks time  who knows  but Im sure there will be enough to satisfy whatever needs arise.

But there is something very important which we should all remember  our shopkeepers, who have gone to great lengths and expense in many cases, now need our support to ensure they wont be forced to close their doors early in the New Year.

We have had enough closures over the past 12 months and, while some were totally unavoidable, there were others that could have been avoided. Im fed up listening to people moaning about the fact that their favourite shops, restaurants and pubs have closed over the past year. Yet ask them when was the last time they spent money in those places and they would be hard pressed to put a date on it.

Businesses cannot live on fresh air or good intentions; they need hard cash to cross the counter in order for them to pay their staff, utilities and whatever else is thrown at them.

Online shopping is a fact of life nowadays, but it shouldnt replace high street shopping either. There is nothing worse than going for a walk and looking at all the empty premises and remembering a time when they were thriving businesses, as well as places where you met people, exchanged pleasantries or a bit of gossip.

Maybe Im living in the past, but there are times when there is nothing wrong with that.
CARLOW musician Darragh OConnor, who performs under the name FAnix, will support electronic music duo Lebrock for part of their upcoming Ireland and UK tour.

Darragh will be the supporting artist for Lebrocks shows in Dublin on 22 November, Manchester on 11 December and Milton Keynes on 12 December, alongside fellow electronic music artist WolfClub.

Before joining Lebrock on tour Darragh will play a free concert at Scraggs Alley in Carlow on 16 November. He describes his music as a blend of 80s-inspired nostalgia and contemporary alternative pop.

These performances coincide with the release of his new single In Your Arms which he wrote from his hospital bed in Rome while very unwell with a perforated bowel and acute appendicitis.

The song is inspired by his wife Madelines support during that time. Darragh was formerly part of the bands Beef Supreme and Exiles before going solo in 2022. Exiles enjoyed a degree of national recognition  performing at the Electric Picnic festival and other high-profile slots. Hailing from Carlow town, Darragh has built up his business in the music industry and runs the Youngblood Music Studio from his home. He also launched the Youngblood Sessions and Open Mics, initiatives he started to give emerging local artists a platform. Through those gigs he helped to spotlight artists Just Alice, Asophonics, Maryann and Sitting Room.
CODD Family Mushrooms enjoyed a successful few weeks on the award circuit, with the Tullow-based producer most recently picking up second place in the Agri-Family Business of the Year category at the national Family Business Awards.

The awards ceremony took place at Johnstown Estate on 30 October during a special lunchtime gala with broadcaster Matt Cooper as MC on the day.

Earlier last month, the Codd family were one of 136 Irish food and drink companies recognised with the Origin Green Gold membership for their sustainability performance in 2025.

To cap off an incredible October for the company, it was also on the winners list at the 18th annual Blas na hEireann Irish Food Awards, which took place in Dingle on the first weekend of October. Blas na hEireann is the biggest food and drink awards on the island, and Codds was victorious in the Chefs Larder award category for its Tesco Portobello Mushrooms.

Codd Family Mushrooms is jointly owned by brothers Raymond and Leslie Codd and has been growing mushrooms from their farm in Tullow since 1989.

It is the largest mushroom producer in the country, supplying about 60% of the Irish market, and it export some of its mushrooms to the UK. The company now employs over 240 people.

Codds has put a big emphasis on sustainability in recent years, in a bid to meet its green targets and reduce production costs, such as electricity. It has installed solar panels and has planning permission to erect a new wind turbine which it hopes will be functional at some stage next year.

The nature of mushroom production means the work doesnt stop for the family business, which operates seven days a week, 365 days a year, and it will now turn its attention to promoting its award-winning product ahead of the busy Christmas market.
James Cox

The Irish Coast Guards Marine Rescue Co-ordination Centre in Malin Head is coordinating a search for a missing crew member following a distress alert from a UK Naval support vessel just before 9am this morning.

The missing crew member on board was last seen at approximately 10.30pm last night. The vessel was located north of Tory Island when the alert was raised.

Malin Head Coast Guard are coordinating a search for the missing crew member in the sea off the northwest coast between Tory Island, Co Donegal and Eagle Island, Co Mayo.

The search from the air is being conducted by the Coast Guards fixed wing plane, Rescue 120F based in Shannon Airport, Coast Guard helicopter, Rescue 118, based in Sligo and the Irish Air Corps plane, CASA 284.

A search is also being coordinated at sea by the UK Naval support vessel and three RNLI all weather lifeboats based at Ballyglass, Arranmore Island and Lough Swilly. Other vessels of opportunity are also involved in the search.

Air assets from the Irish Coast Guard, all weather life boats, assets from Irish Air Corps, Irish Naval Service, and the UKs Royal Navy and Air Force will continue to search the area overnight, and will continue to monitor weather and search conditions.
James Cox

Bad weather was no deterrent for hundreds of people who took to the streets of Dublin to call on the Government to "put people and nature before big polluters" in todays national climate march.

The march, which was part of a global day of action for climate justice, to coincide with the COP30 World Climate Negotiations in Brazil, was organised by the Stop Climate Chaos coalition and supported by Friends of the Earth and a wide range of civil society organisations, trade unions and community groups.

There were strong calls for Government action on climate that addresses inequality, stands up to big polluters and improves the wellbeing and living standards of people and communities.

Speaking at the march, Deirdre Duffy, chief executive of Friends of the Earth said: People showed up in their thousands today to show the government that climate justice is their highest political priority. Young and old from all backgrounds including grassroots groups from across the country, we flocked to Dublin today to call for action. People and planet must come before the profits of polluters.

The call for climate justice has been loud and clear - people want to see climate action that results in healthier, connected communities, whose wellbeing and health is prioritised ahead of corporate profit.

We all deserve to have good quality homes that dont break the bank to heat, to have healthy air to breathe, to have access to reliable public transport that lets us move around freely."

The demonstration is also endorsed and supported by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, student unions, and local community organisations. Photo: Mark Stedman

Ms Duffy added: But the Government is failing us on these basic needs and instead letting big polluters run riot. Its letting data centres guzzle up energy and water resources that homes and public services need. Its saying that it wants new gas infrastructure at a time when we need to get off fossil fuels. All of this is a recipe for driving up energy bills for ordinary people, not to mention adding fuel to the fire of climate breakdown.

This government cant have its cake and eat it. They cant let polluters like data centre and gas companies do as they please while ordinary people pick up the cost.

"Todays march has shown that people want change. From securing warm, well insulated, homes for all, to ensuring that the people hit hardest by extreme climate impacts are protected, there is clearly huge appetite to create a better, fairer, cleaner and more equal world. I hope the Government takes heed, listens to the people and starts to act.

Todays climate march and rally was endorsed by 59 organisations and groups, including Friends of the Earth, the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, the Ireland-Palestine Solidarity Campaign, Trocaire, Oxfam, SIPTU and the National Womens Council.

Speakers at the rally included Katie Morgan, vice president of Forsa, Thomas Morelli from Stop Shannon LNG and Grecia Eugenia Rodriguez Navarro, a Mexican human rights defender.

Music at the event included performances from the activist singing group Singing for Change and musician Danny Groenland with accompanying artists.
Any force obstructing China's reunification doomed to fail: FM spokesperson

Xinhua) 09:11, November 15, 2025

BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- China will never compromise or concede on its core interests such as national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and any force that dares to obstruct China's reunification is doomed to fail, said Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian on Friday.

Lin made the remarks after Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong summoned the Japanese ambassador to China, Kenji Kanasugi, on Thursday, making serious demarches over Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's provocative remarks on Taiwan, which imply the possibility of armed intervention in the Taiwan Strait.

Lin told a regular news briefing that the root cause of the problem lies in Takaichi's "extremely wrongful, dangerous and provocative remarks on Taiwan and her refusal to change course and retract what she had said."

"That grossly interferes in China's internal affairs, violates international law and the basic norms of international relations, and damages the post-WWII international order," Lin said.

It also contravenes the one-China principle and the guiding principles set forth in the four China-Japan political documents, disrupts the political foundations of China-Japan relations, and hurts the Chinese people's sentiment, he added.

Noting that many politicians and people with vision in Japan have raised caution and criticism, Lin said China cherishes peace and values good faith.

"That said, when it comes to China's sovereignty, territorial integrity and any other issues concerning China's core interests, no one shall ever expect any compromise or concession from China," Lin said.

He continued to stress that no one shall have the illusion that China will swallow the bitter fruit that undermines its interests.

"No one shall seek to challenge the bottom line of the Chinese people, for whoever try to do so will be dealt a head-on blow and find themselves on a collision course with a great wall of steel forged by over 1.4 billion Chinese people," Lin said.

"For anyone who dare to hold back China's reunification: Failure will be their fate," added the spokesperson.

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Liang Jun)
News / National

by Staff reporter

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission has been sued over recently-gazetted fees to be paid by candidates intending to run for election.Former presidential candidate Egypt Dzinemunhenzva and three others who filed an application at the High Court on Monday said the new fees are "grossly unreasonable, unlawful" and would deprive citizens of their legal right as captured in section 3(b) of the Electoral Act to "participate in government directly or through freely chosen representativesa without distinction on the ground of race, ethnicity, gender, language, political or religious belief, education, physical appearance or disability or economic or social condition, to stand for office and cast a vote freely."ZEC last month raised fees for presidential, parliamentary and council aspirants who wish to contest in next year's general elections.Contained in statutory instrument 144 of 2022, the fees are USD$20,000 to run for president, US$1,000 to stand as MP candidate and US$200 to file nomination papers for local authority elections.Dzinemunhenzva, joined by Harare North MP Allan Markham and activists Tapiwanashe Chiriga and Vongai Zimudzi, previously wrote to ZEC giving it 72 hours to scrap the fees, but the ultimatum was ignored.ZEC and justice minister Ziyambi Ziyambi are cited as respondents.The quartet are asking the High Court to declare the statutory instrument unconstitutional as it infringes section 67 of the Zimbabwe constitution which provides that "every Zimbabwean citizen who is of or over eighteen years of age has the righta to stand for election for public office and, if elected, to hold such office" and section 68 which says "every person has a right to administrative conduct that is lawful, prompt, efficient, reasonable, proportionate, impartial and both substantively and procedurally fair."They also want Statutory Instrument 144 of 2022 be repealed.The matter is yet to be heard.
Barry Ray, a 1981 graduate of Lee, was named the 2025 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year during the universitys Homecoming. Mr. Ray was recognized for this honor during the Traditions of Lee music showcase. The highest honor given by the university to alumni, this award honors the excellence of a graduate who embraces the values of Lee.

"I can't think of a more deserving recipient of our highest alumni award than Mr. Barry Ray, said Carman Lastoria, director of alumni and donor relations. Barry has been an influential leader in the senior care space for the better part of three decades. In addition, he has served Lee University, the Cleveland community, and the Kingdom of God with excellence through a spirit of generosity and service. Barry lives out his faith in the marketplace, in the community, and in leading his family. He plays a significant role in Lee's growth and development, and we were honored to present him with this award at Homecoming last week.

Throughout his career, Mr. Ray has served in key leadership roles in the senior housing and long-term care fields. After a brief time in hotel management, Mr. Ray began working with Life Care Centers of America, the nations largest privately held senior housing provider, where he worked for 14 years. During the last several years of his tenure with Life Care, Mr. Ray served as president of American Lifestyles, Inc., the assisted living subsidiary of Life Care.

In 2002, Mr. Ray founded Vision Senior Care Partners to operate and develop retirement facilities and consult on senior housing and health care, including an additional focus on church and para-ministry organizations desiring to enter the senior housing industry.

In 2006, he and Bryan Cook, a fellow Lee alumnus, formed Legacy Senior Living. Under Mr. Rays leadership, Legacy Senior Living now owns and operates multiple retirement communities across the southeast United States.

Mr. Ray was recognized by the Lee School of Business in 2013 as their Distinguished Alumnus of the Year.

Mr. Ray and his wife, Iris, have three children, all Lee alum, and seven grandchildren.






Lee Universitys chapter of Kappa Delta Pi, an honors society for educators, welcomed five new members in an induction ceremony.

I enjoy our yearly induction for KDP because we get to see the fruit of the students hard work and perseverance for excellence, said Dr. Paige Rapson, professor of education and faculty sponsor for Lees KDP chapter. These students show excellence both inside and outside of the classroom where they care for students holistically.

Friends and family were invited to watch as the inductees received an encouraging word from guest speaker Laura Stilltrotter, a Lee University alumna, teacher at Blythe-Bower Elementary in Cleveland, and recipient of 2025-26 Tennessee Novice Teacher of the Year Award. After she spoke, the KDP officers officially inducted the candidates into the honor society, and a presentation of certificates followed.

The new inductees included Robbi Guthrie, Ashlee Hickey, Alex Hutchins, Alia Serrano and Bailey Smith.

Being inducted into Kappa Delta Pi is an honor that not only motivates me to continue growing as an individual, but as a future leader and educator, said Ms. Hickey. I am thankful for those who have supported me and seen the potential I have to make a difference in the next generation. This honor will allow me to serve and develop confidence to lead with excellence and integrity.

For more information about KDP, visit https://www.kdp.org/home.

For more information on Lees Helen DeVos College of Education, call (423) 614-8175 or email education@leeuniversity.edu.
Home News Christian groups urge Scottish gov't to reject 'extreme' abortion up to birth proposals

Christian and pro-life groups are calling on the Scottish government to reject "extreme" proposals to allow abortion up to birth.

The controversial recommendation was made by a group commissioned by the Scottish government to review current abortion law in Scotland. It published its final recommendations to the Scottish government on Friday.

They include removing the current safeguard of two doctors signing off on abortion and the provision of specified grounds for abortion up to 24 weeks. Adopting the group's plans would mean legalizing abortion on demand for any reason, up to 24 weeks.

More controversially, the report recommends that abortion be allowed for any reason up to birth where two healthcare professionals agree "in good faith" that it is appropriate. Current law in Scotland only permits abortion after 24 weeks in cases of "serious handicap," or if the mother's life is at risk.

Furthermore, the report states that "no specific reference is made to sex-selective abortion within any updated abortion legislation."

Additional proposals in the report include introducing "a duty to provide abortion services," effectively enshrining in law a "right to abortion," and repealing The Concealment of Birth (Scotland) Act, which would remove the offense of concealing the disposal of babies aborted at home.

The report does allow for conscientious objection, but health professionals who exercise this right still have a duty to refer.

Christian advocacy group, CARE for Scotland, called the proposals "extreme" and "truly shocking."

The organization's Director of Advocacy and Policy, Caroline Ansell, said: If enacted, we believe they would have heart-breaking consequences for women and babies, including exposing more women to the dangers and harms of late-term abortions.



If taken up by the Scottish government, it would be a retrograde and backwards step.



We believe in every pregnancy both lives matter and a truly just society protects women and babies at every stage of the pregnancy.

The Abortion Law Reform Expert Group was set up by former First Minister Humza Yousaf and chaired by professor Anna Glasier, a former trustee of abortion provider BPAS. The 13-member group also included BPAS head of advocacy, Rachael Clarke.

Right to Life UK said that there was a "conflict of interest" in the composition of the group and that it was "grossly inappropriate" to include people with close ties to abortion providers.

The Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC), which was also critical of the group's composition, branded the proposals destructive and disastrous for the women and future generations of Scotland." It is calling for Scottish lawmakers to see sense and reject the proposals.

Michael Robinson, SPUC General Secretary, said, While we expected the report to call for the extension of abortion, given the group was made up of experts who specialize in abortion provision, we could never have imagined the proposals would be so destructive.

"If taken, these proposals would mean abortion up to birth with practically no restrictions. There is a complete disregard for any rights afforded to the unborn child, recognized in international law.

"This extension of the law does not reflect the will of the public, the majority of whom are not in favor of extending the abortion time limit.

"We strongly urge Scottish legislators to see sense, ignore these proposals and instead consider legislation that protects the vulnerable and safeguards the future of this country.

Right to Life UK said the proposed changes "go far beyond the already extreme current proposals in England and Wales, which would only amend the law for women performing their own abortions," and take Scotland well beyond the European Union average, where most countries have a 12-week limit.

It warned that the plans are likely to lead to an increase in the number of viable babies being aborted beyond 24 weeks and the point at which they are likely to survive outside the womb.

It argued that determining the appropriacy of abortion after 24 weeks would be highly subjective and that this could result in late-term abortions being approved on purely social grounds.

The liberalization of current laws might also give rise to abortion "tourism," with women coming from other parts of the U.K. and even around the world to have late-term abortions in Scotland, the group said.

Catherine Robinson, spokesperson for Right To Life UK, said: This report is one of the most extreme in U.K. parliamentary history, drawn up by radical activists whose views do not align with public opinion and who stand to gain from their proposals.

"What is being suggested is an extreme and inhumane change to the law, which polling shows is widely opposed by women.

It added, The Scottish government should provide more support for women facing unplanned pregnancies, rather than seek to introduce an extreme law change that would make it legal to end a babys life right up to when they are about to be born.

This article was originally published at Christian Today
Home News Texas activist, Navy veteran arrested on felony charge over Facebook meme Sheriff doubles down on arrest, cites state penal code

A Texas sheriffs office is doubling down after deputies arrested a local activist and Navy veteran after he posted a satirical meme on social media.

Hood County Sheriffs deputies arrested Kolton Krottinger, 38, of Granbury, on Nov. 5 for felony online impersonation after he allegedly created an Oct. 2 Facebook post that appeared to come from another local activist, showing her endorsing Granbury ISD school board candidate Monica Brown.

On his Facebook page, Krottinger is listed as the founder of Blue Branch Historic Ranch, a mental health retreat for veterans and first responders, and the owner of the Anxiety Hackers cannabis dispensary in Oklahoma.

According to a criminal complaint, the alleged victim, Tina Brown, contacted authorities about the post, stating that she did not support Monica Brown and that the public is being misled by the post as to what [Browns] actual beliefs are concerning this particular election race.

The complaint  which says the alleged victim obtained a search warrant for Facebook owner Meta, and later identified Krottinger as the owner of the Hood County Sheepdogs Facebook page  alleges the post was made without obtaining the other persons consent and with the intent to defraud the general public against the peace and dignity of the state.

Texas Penal Code 33.07 prohibits using another persons name or persona online without obtaining the other persons consent and with the intent to harm, defraud, intimidate, or threaten any person.

On Monday, Hood County Sheriff Roger Deeds issued a public statement acknowledging numerous social media posts involving bullying, harassment, threats and similar [acts] directed at county residents. Much of what is posted online is protected by the 1st Amendment, Deeds wrote, but these acts may sometimes constitute a criminal offense, such as the example below, from a recent and notable case.

Deeds also encouraged citizens to file offense reports, stating that any crime reported to the Sheriffs Office will be investigated to the fullest extent of the law.

In what appeared to be his first public comments since his arrest, Krottinger said its been a long, humbling several days since my arrest, and hes still in shock over being placed in handcuffs for a social media post.

I never imagined that exercising my right to free speech ... something I swore to defend could land me in handcuffs, he wrote Nov. 12. But here we are  this experience has deepened my appreciation for our freedoms ... especially the ones so many take for granted. The First Amendment isnt just words on paper. Its what separates us from tyranny.

The arrest has caught the attention of several local and state officials, including former Hood County GOP Chair Nate Criswell, who launched online petitions on Change.org and GiveSendGo to drop the charges and urged District Attorney Ryan Sinclair to dismiss the case.

Unfortunately, I believe the arrest and jailing of Kolton Krottinger is simply the latest in a series of incidents in Hood County that appear to be orchestrated to silence the voice of a segment of our population, Criswell said in a Nov. 10 post. ... These actions seem to be devised to discourage a selected group from their participation in the political process here in Hood County.

The Christian Post reached out Friday to the Hood County Sheriffs Department for comment.

While criminal prosecution for social media activity is more common in Britain and other European nations, last month, authorities in Tennessee dropped a felony charge against a man who was jailed for more than a month over a Facebook post he made about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Former law enforcement officer Larry Bushart, 61, was arrested after sharing several memes mocking Kirks assassination, including one with President Donald Trump and the caption, We have to get over it.
Home Opinion 10 ways the Christian worldview developed modern science

When people speak about the so-called conflict between Christianity and science, they often ignore the fact that modern science itself was birthed out of a Christian worldview.

The conviction that the universe is rational, orderly, and accessible to human reason was not a pagan idea, nor was it a product of atheistic philosophy. It was nurtured in the soil of Christianity. Few individuals illustrate this better than Johannes Kepler (15711630), the German astronomer and mathematician whose discoveries laid the foundation for Isaac Newtons laws of motion and gravitation.

Keplers life was marked by hardship, loss, and controversy, yet he saw his scientific calling as an extension of his devotion to Christ. He described himself as thinking Gods thoughts after Him, convinced that creation was a divine book written for human discovery. By examining Keplers worldview, we can see at least 10 ways the Christian faith fostered the development of modern science.

1. The belief in an ordered universe

Christianity teaches that God created the world with purpose and design. Unlike pagan myths that depicted the cosmos as chaotic and unpredictable, the Bible reveals a God of order (1 Corinthians 14:33). Kepler embraced this conviction, insisting that the heavens moved in harmony and followed discernible laws. His discovery of planetary motion as elliptical rather than circular came not from abandoning faith, but from trusting that Gods creation was intelligible and consistent. Without this underlying conviction of order, the scientific method could not have flourished.

2. Mathematics as the language of creation

Kepler believed that mathematics was more than human invention  it was the very language in which God wrote the universe. His three laws of planetary motion reflect this: elliptical orbits, equal areas in equal times, and the proportional relationship between orbital period and distance. To Kepler, numbers were not neutral; they revealed the fingerprints of the Creator. Christianity gave him confidence that the natural world was not arbitrary but could be expressed with elegant mathematical precision.

3. Creation as a revelation of God

Christian theology taught Kepler to see two books: the book of Scripture and the book of Nature. Both revealed the glory of God, though in different ways. For him, studying the heavens was a form of worship, a way of discerning Gods majesty displayed in creation (Psalm 19:1). This belief drove him beyond mere curiosity. He saw his vocation as sacred, aligning his intellectual labor with Gods purpose. Modern sciences impulse to search for underlying principles owes much to this Christian conviction that creation itself is a revelation.

4. Human reason as a reflection of the divine image

Unlike philosophies that diminished human dignity, Christianity affirmed that men and women were made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This meant humanity was endowed with reason and creativity, designed to steward the earth. Kepler leaned on this doctrine, believing that if God gave us rational minds, then He expected us to use them to uncover creations mysteries. The confidence that human intellect could grasp natural laws laid the groundwork for the modern scientific enterprise.

5. Faith as a catalyst for perseverance

Keplers life was full of suffering  financial struggles, the death of his children, and even accusations of heresy. Yet his Christian faith gave him endurance. He viewed his scientific labor as a calling, not merely a career. When he finally uncovered the laws of planetary motion after years of frustration, he attributed it to Gods providence. This perseverance was not incidental but rooted in a worldview that saw trials as refining and discovery as participation in Gods unfolding plan.

6. The integration of theology and natural philosophy

Kepler did not compartmentalize faith and science. His theological reflections shaped his astronomical theories. For example, he likened the sun to Christ, central, life-giving, and radiating light to the planets. This spiritual imagery motivated him to embrace the Copernican heliocentric model, even when it was unpopular. Christianity gave him categories of meaning that fueled scientific innovation, reminding us that faith and reason can operate in harmony rather than opposition.

7. The pursuit of truth as sacred duty

For Kepler, truth was not negotiable. Since God is truth, he believed the pursuit of scientific accuracy was a moral and spiritual obligation. He refused to settle for convenient but false theories of planetary motion. Instead, he labored until his data fit reality. This conviction  that truth is objective, consistent, and worth pursuing  was a distinct inheritance from Christian theology. The modern scientific method, which demands rigorous testing and fidelity to evidence, was born from this commitment.

8. A universe built on harmony

In his work Harmonices Mundi (Harmony of the World), Kepler described the cosmos as a grand symphony. He believed the planets moved according to a divine harmony, echoing the music of the spheres. This conviction sprang from his Christian belief that God delights in beauty and order. The search for elegant, harmonious explanations in science  from physics to chemistry  is an extension of this worldview, one that sees creation as not only functional but beautiful.

9. Humility before Gods majesty

Unlike the hubris of some later scientists, Kepler approached his discoveries with humility. He acknowledged that his insights came not from his own brilliance but from Gods mercy in revealing them. His prayers are woven throughout his scientific works, asking for divine help and giving thanks for breakthroughs. This humility prevented him from worshiping science itself; instead, he saw science as a servant of theology. Such an attitude safeguarded early science from arrogance and kept it grounded in awe.

10. Legacy of faith and reason for modern science

Keplers integration of faith and science left a lasting legacy. His laws of planetary motion paved the way for Newtons theory of gravity, and his methodology influenced generations of scientists. More importantly, his example shows that modern science was not birthed in opposition to Christianity but in partnership with it. The Christian worldview provided the philosophical and spiritual framework that made such advances possible.

Conclusion: Keplers witness for today

The life of Johannes Kepler dismantles the myth that faith and science are enemies. His Christian worldview did not hinder his discoveries; it fueled them. He believed in an ordered universe created by a wise God, accessible to human reason, and worthy of exploration. His perseverance, humility, and devotion to truth remind us that the scientific enterprise, at its best, flows out of a vision of creation as Gods handiwork.

Today, as secular narratives attempt to erase Christianitys contribution to science, Keplers life stands as a witness. Modern science grew in the soil of a Christian worldview, and its greatest fruit came from those who, like Kepler, sought to think Gods thoughts after Him.
Home Opinion How to be convinced God loves you

The American evangelist D.L. Moody (1837-1899) said, "If we could only make people believe that God loves them, they would be crowding into the Kingdom of Heaven! The trouble is that men think God hates them, and so they are always running away from Him."

We have several things working against us in this regard. First of all, each one of us has a sinful nature, which points us away from Christ rather than toward the Lord. Secondly, painful circumstances sometimes corrupt our thoughts about God. And thirdly, we tend to trust our feelings more than we trust God's Word.

Thankfully, the Christian faith is not rooted in feelings, but in facts; historically reliable and profoundly substantive facts. You will need to look outside yourself if you want to think straight. What Christ endured on the cross took place outside of us 2000 years ago.

To be convinced God loves you, it is necessary to turn away from your subjective feelings and look with the eyes of faith at the Savior's excruciating sacrifice for your sins. "God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8).

Mature Christians do not base the assurance of their salvation on their feelings. Instead, we rely upon God's promises regarding the free gift of salvation, (see John 3:16) even when pleasant feelings are absent. God can strengthen you to remain steadfast in faith, regardless of your feelings, emotions, and personal circumstances.

Jesus said believers have "streams of living water" (see John 7:37-39) within them. Spirit-filled Christians thoroughly enjoy God's presence and experience the fruit of the Holy Spirit. (see Galatians 5:22-23) God's living water in man's soul produces joy and confidence.

So, what are you allowing to fill your heart today? Perhaps there is a mixture of living water, along with various impurities. The Holy Spirit leads God's children to confess and renounce unholy thoughts and behavior. Deliberate sin, perhaps more than anything else, causes a person to doubt God's love. It messes with your mind and produces spiritual confusion.

Why do some Christians seem to continually bask in the joy and certainty of God's love for them? Well one thing is sure. This invigorating perspective requires constant vigilance. You see, if we are not careful, we can be easily swayed by the winds and waves of change, challenges, temptations, moods, etc.

Rock-solid faith continually focuses on the place where God demonstrated His love for us; namely, the cross. Nothing can ever undo the atoning sacrifice Christ completed when the Father sent His only Son to earth to redeem us. Jesus willingly gave up His life so that you and I could receive everlasting joy in Heaven.

Contentment on earth comes from resting in the arms of Jesus. We trust the Savior and cling to God's unfailing and unconditional love. The Apostle Paul wrote, "I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation" (Philippians 4:12). The power of the Gospel is neither rocket science nor mysticism. It is, however, most certainly real and life-changing. "The reality is found in Christ" (Colossians 2:17).

Ultimately, the only way to become convinced God loves you is to receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior (see John 1:12). Prior to conversion, the love of God is absent from a person's heart. But everything changes the minute you are born again (see John 3:1-8).

"God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us" (Romans 5:5). Christ's love literally melts away a person's reservations about God. It gives believers the ability to love God and love others in response to what the Lord has done for us. "We love because He first loved us" (1 John 4:19).

A personal relationship with Jesus Christ is a dynamic experience with the God of the universe. You enter into this relationship by repenting of your sins and relying upon the historical facts of Christ's death and resurrection for your eternal salvation.

Believers are filled with God's love as we walk closely with Christ and soak in the goodness of God's grace and mercy. We ground our faith in the objective reality of the cross and the empty tomb, and we experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit as we read the Bible, forgive others, pray, give thanks, worship with other Christians, serve one another, and love people with Christ's love.

If you have not already done so, I hope you will surrender your soul to Christ and accept the Lord's gracious offer of salvation: "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23).
Families and friends are working to bring home Cleveland State University students Samira Xhaferi and Albi Cela to Albania following their deaths in a Cleveland crash. Soeren Stache/Getty Images

CLEVELAND, Ohio  Families and friends are working to bring home two Cleveland State University students, engaged to be married, to Albania after a fatal crash in Cleveland earlier this week.

Samira Xhaferi, 28, and her fiance, Albi Cela, 30, came from Albania to pursue advanced degrees, Xhaferi in a Ph.D. program and Cela in law, WKYC reported. The couple died in a two-vehicle crash on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, leaving classmates, faculty and the Albanian community grieving.

They were both just really, really smart, passionate, talented people who really cared about the world, Samia Mansour, a cousin by marriage, told WKYC.

Mansour said the couple was likely following their regular morning routine when the crash occurred.

My guess, based on the time of day and where they were driving, is that they were probably driving to work and school, she said. Albi was (probably) dropping Samira off at school and then going to work, which is whats so scary about the situation because its just a regular drive that everyone does every day.

Cleveland police said the crash happened around 9:15 a.m. Nov. 11. The department said a vehicle heading north on Martin Luther King Drive from East 105th Street lost control on a curve, crossed into southbound lanes and collided with another vehicle.

Its unclear which vehicle Xhaferi and Cela were in.

The families have launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover the cost of bringing the couple back to Albania for funeral and memorial services. Mansour described the two as bright, independent and creative.

This was so senseless, she said to WKYC. Just be careful out there. Just be careful driving.

A public memorial is planned for Sunday from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Slone & Co. Life Celebration Center in Clevelands West Park neighborhood. The families said the service is open to anyone who wishes to attend before they return home.
AI shopping assistants, rather than elves, may be the ones bustling behind the scenes this holiday season.

At least, Google seems to be pushing in that direction: The tech giant has released a major AI shopping update in Gemini that can trigger AI agents to call stores, actively track pricing, and even purchase items on their own.

This signals a new shopping paradigm, but it may also tax enterprise systems and practices.
People dont generally turn to the Pope for movie advice, for the same reasons that no one ever looked to Siskel and Ebert for whatever it is that a Pope actually does.

But the Popes cinematic taste is in the news this week following the announcement that Pope Leo XIV will be hosting a Hollywood gathering at the Vatican later this month for industry A-listers including Cate Blanchett, Spike Lee and Chris Pine. I guess the Spotlight casts invitations must have gotten lost in the mail.

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The Vatican also shared a video of the Pope naming his top four favorite movies of all time, Letterboxd-style. His list includes Life is Beautiful, The Sound of Music, Ordinary People and Its a Wonderful Life. But keep in mind, that list could change as soon as he catches up with The VelociPastor.

But prior to his Popedom, His Holiness used to have a Twitter account. Back in 2013 he used it to Tweet out a link to a list of the best Christmas movies, as decided by the Catholic News Service. The list, which has subsequently been dubbed Pope Leo XIVs Best Christmas Movies on Letterboxd, contains classics like Miracle on 34th Street, White Christmas, A Christmas Story and Its a Wonderful Life. And it didnt escape Muppets fans attention that the Pope once celebrated The Muppet Christmas Carol.

But there are some pretty shocking selections on this list as well. Like the 2009 Jim Carrey-starring CGI take on Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol. And, weirder still, the list contains the Tim Allen trainwreck Christmas with the Kranks. Although, to be fair, it did try to sell itself as the new Passion of the Christ.

But worst of all, the list includes Fred Claus.

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For those who have been lucky enough to avoid it over the years, 2007s Fred Claus tells the story of Santas deadbeat brother, played by Vince Vaughan  presumably because some studio executive thought Wedding Crashers plus Christmas equals beach house while doing sled-loads of cocaine.

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Yup, the list shared by the Pope doesnt include Elf or Home Alone, but it does contain a movie in which St. Nicholas has an elite squad of ultraviolent secret service agents. Just 30 seconds of this dreck will make you want to immediately watch as much of Die Hard as possible just to try and get the taste out.

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To be clear, Pope Leo didn't put this list together himself, but he did share it online, thus implicitly endorsing its contents. Which begs the question: what is the churchs position on immortal elven demigods dating women 1660 years their junior?
Bill Maher is, openly, a sleazy misogynist who harasses women on his podcast.

So why does the virtuous left give him a pass?

His most recent victim  a woman for whom I otherwise have no sympathy  is Cheryl Hines, who appeared on Maher's Club Random to promote her new memoir.

Conducted, as usual, from a cramped corner in his basement lair  windowless, airless, giving Buffalo Bill from Silence of the Lambs vibes (I kid)  Maher goes full lounge lizard lothario.

Maher, who otherwise proclaims to be a champion of women's rights, begins by telling Hines: 'I don't like red on women blood-red lingerie is such a turn-off to me I don't like thick, loud clothes on women, like I don't like leather.'

Hines was wearing leather pants.

So Bill, a 69-year-old confirmed bachelor, says he doesn't like women to wear red  not only a power color, but from the dawn of humanity a symbol of sexual availability.

Interesting, too, that he used the expression 'blood red'. Why blood? Is that the only thing red evokes for him  menstrual blood?

It seems like he's walking right up to that, and the inference that he may find menstruating women dirty.

Bill Maher is, openly, a sleazy misogynist who harasses women on his podcast. So why does the virtuous left give him a pass?

His most recent victim - a woman for whom I otherwise have no sympathy - is Cheryl Hines, who appeared on Maher's Club Random to promote her new memoir

This, even though he dates younger women exclusively. He's rumored to currently be seeing Al Pacino's off-and-on baby mama Noor Alfallah, 31. (Humiliatingly, she insists they're just friends.)

Next, before we even get to asking Hines about her terrible new book, Maher continues assailing her and his listeners with more unwanted details about his sex life, such as it is.

I think the self-reports are greatly exaggerated.

Maher is his own worst enemy here, broadcasting his pervy peccadillos and why he can no longer bring himself to sleep with his legions of adoring female fans.

No exaggeration here. You couldn't make this up.

'People who are fans, they're too nervous,' Maher tells Hines  who hasn't asked. Of course not! She's married to Robert F Kennedy Jr. She's got enough problems.

Anyway, Maher continues, undeterred.

'When you go to have sex,' he says, '[fans] are just frozen. Yeah, yeah, it's happened more than once.'

This is Bill Maher we're talking about. If this guy stands 5'7' and weighs more than 160 pounds soaking wet, I'd be shocked.

Yet here he is, cocksman of comedy, rendering young female fans frozen in bed by the awesomeness of his presence  and, presumably, his potency.

Now, I'll give Hines credit for this rejoinder, which I don't think Maher took with its intended effect.

'They're like, "I can't believe I'm doing it with Bill Maher",' she said.

Maher's dead-serious reply: 'I guess so. I guess so.'

Oh. My. God.

It's reminiscent of his recent interview with 94-year-old American icon Barbara Eden  who he verbally assailed with the disgusting 'wettens panties.'

If ever there was a moment for the left to call Maher to heel like the dog he is, that was it: Talking to this lovely, polite elderly woman, trapped like a scared little bunny rabbit in Bill's blue-light lair as he bombarded her with his talk of masturbation and why she should be on OnlyFans.

And when Eden said she had no idea what OnlyFans was, Maher was only too happy to explain.

'This is not gonna come as good news,' he began.

In that case, why not stop there, Bill? Oh  because otherwise you couldn't get your sadistic kicks from punishing every beautiful, successful woman who sits in your chair for all the slights you suffered in high school and college, no girls or women at all giving you attention. Wonder why.

This clip is still proudly up on Maher's YouTube channel, described thusly: 'Bill Maher hilariously 'explains' OnlyFans to TV icon Barbara Eden.'

'You could make a fortune,' Bill said. 'It's women masturbating or showing their vaginas to men who are paying them.'

Even Maher's own fans were repulsed.

'Whoever told Barbara to go on his show should be sent to prison for life,' read one comment.

Another: 'This guy is so incredibly gross to talk to her this way.'

Yet another: 'Horrifying  if you spoke to my elderly mother like that, I would call the police.'

Cheryl Hines had to know what she was getting into.

Based on her responses to Maher  parrying, minimizing, laughing off  it seems as though there's something fundamentally broken in her, as if she was trained from a young age to accommodate difficult men rather than confront them.

It would explain her marriage to RFK Jr, a difficult man if ever there was one.

And as for my overall lack of sympathy, it goes to the ways Hines perpetuated the agonies of RFK Jr's second wife, Mary Richardson, who Bobby was still married to when they started dating and who wound up committing suicide in the family barn.

Richardson gets no mention in Hines's memoir, though Richardson's children do.

As for Maher's animus here, I think it's magnified by Hines's new status as not just a Kennedy wife, but the wife of one of the most famous, and currently most powerful, Kennedys.

It seems to me that he's getting off on degrading her and knowing that she  and Bobby  will take it so she can sell copies of her new book.

Again: How can the ultra-progressive left, which ostensibly brooks no misogyny, sexual harassment or abuse of any kind continue to give Bill Maher a pass?

And not for nothing, but guests on his weekly Real Time show on HBO are almost always uniformly male, as they were last week and as they were on Friday night.

A show in which he pays lip service to the idea that women all over the world should be treated with dignity and respect.

In a monologue delivered in May last year, Maher pointed out the hypocrisy of pro-Palestinian protestors agitating against 'apartheid' when women in far too many nations suffer from just that.

Maher sees misogyny only in extremes, however. He quoted on Iranian woman on the tyranny of wearing head-to-toe coverings: 'It just surpasses your humanity,' she said.

Truer words. If only Maher would realize they apply equally to him  that talking to women like this, especially in a public forum, that telling Cheryl Hines he likes her 'tits', is just as dehumanizing.
The BBC has helped to fund a brutally anti-British film about Palestine, now in cinemas in Britain and soon to be released in the US.

Viewers in Britain will be shocked to see British soldiers portrayed as little better than Nazis, in one scene humiliating an Arab priest and his young son and robbing them.

The film also makes a ferocious personal attack on Captain Orde Wingate, the British officer later famous for his role in the Burma war and his Chindit guerrilla units.

An organisation called BBC Film, an arm of the Corporation, has confirmed to me that it has provided funding alongside many other UK and international partners.

The London-based website magazine Middle East Eye has praised Palestine 36 in a generous review saying: It may not surprise Palestinians, but the film is bound to shock nearly every Briton who watches it, owing to the stunning omissions from this period in the countrys history curriculum.

True enough. It is shocking, to a British patriot, to learn of some of the unquestioned atrocities which were committed by British troops in Palestine in the 1930s. But the drama itself omits some important things too.

Middle East Eye argues: The film details the crimes and duplicity of British officials in Palestine in the 1930s. It also explores what drove many Palestinians to violent resistance. British soldiers are shown killing innocent people and burning entire villages.

Website magazine Middle East Eye says Palestine 36 details the crimes and duplicity of British officials in Palestine in the 1930s. It also explores what drove many Palestinians to violent resistance

This is an accurate account, as far as it goes. And the period is poorly understood and little-known in this country.

But by leaving out the context and background, it gives  in my view  a deeply unbalanced and partial view of what happened. And witnesses are required to tell the whole truth, not just a bit of it.

British forces did commit atrocities while trying to suppress a major Arab revolt in what was then the British Mandate of Palestine.

But these actions followed a long, cruel, violent and destructive build-up which is simply not explained. Some  but not all Arabs in 1930s Palestine opposed the arrival of Jews, who were allowed by Britain to migrate to the region as part of the National Home promised by this country in the Balfour Declaration of 1918.

Long before the film begins in 1936, Arabs hostile to the Balfour plan had violently attacked Jews.

For instance, in riots in August 1929, 133 Jews were killed by Arabs, and 339 Jews were injured. There had also been destructive attacks on Jewish farms and settlements.

A serious account of the events might also at least touch on the involvement of the Italian Fascist leader Benito Mussolini, in stirring up and financing the tension. There isnt much doubt this took place.

Imperial Britain is caricatured through the figure of General Sir Arthur Wauchope, the colonial High Commissioner, played by Jeremy Irons as a stiff-necked old buffer encrusted with medals, writes Peter Hitchens

There is hardly a single major Arab character who is not portrayed as good, patient, tolerant, humane and wise, even while they rob the passengers of a raided train, writes Peter Hitchens

I dont object to the film itself. Such things at least stimulate interest in a fascinating period, far too little-known. Another recent movie on this era, Shoshana, examines the British conflict with Jewish Zionist terrorists, which also needs some light shed on it.

It is the BBC support for Palestine 36 that I think is wrong, given the BBCs explicit commitment to impartiality.

For this film is not impartial, or even remotely fair, about one of the most bitterly contentious quarrels in modern history. And I dont think its makers would claim that it is.

There is hardly a single major Arab character who is not portrayed as good, patient, tolerant, humane and wise, even while they rob the passengers of a raided train (the passengers are politely asked by armed men to contribute to the cause).

The one exception is an Arab discovered to be taking money from Zionists in return for slipping pro-Jewish propaganda into his newspaper.

There is no major Jewish character in the film at all. Imperial Britain is caricatured through the figure of Sir Arthur Wauchope, the colonial High Commissioner, played by Jeremy Irons as a stiff-necked old buffer encrusted with medals.

Captain Wingate, who was indeed a harsh and biased officer, fanatically pro-Zionist, and eventually ordered home when his fanaticism got out of hand, is shown as a near-diabolical figure.

Captain Orde Wingate (played by Robert Aramayo), who was indeed a harsh and biased officer, fanatically pro-Zionist, and eventually ordered home when his fanaticism got out of hand, is shown as a near-diabolical figure, writes Peter Hitchens

By contrast the only important British character who is treated kindly is an official called Thomas Hopkins, who I think is invented.

He is plainly pro-Arab, as many British colonial officials of the era definitely were. But he is portrayed as powerless and over-ridden, at one point, rather incredibly, swearing like a 21st Century lout, at High Commissioner Wauchope.

The movie makes an enormous fuss about the Peel Commission of 1937, an attempt to dodge the problem by splitting the difference, and carving up the territory between Jews and Arabs.

I think this was the first suggestion of the two-state solution which all fashionable opinion (not me) now endorses as the best way to bring peace to the region. The Arab leadership of the time rejected it angrily. Well, they had reason to do so.

But their refusal to compromise led pretty much directly to the far crueller partition when Israel became independent in 1948.

But what of the eventual outcome of all this, the 1939 White Paper which more or less banned further Jewish immigration into the British Palestine Mandate?

This huge retreat by the British colonial power was the true end of the Arab revolt of 1936, not the rejected Peel report.

A BBC source said: BBC Film was approached about the film in 2022 and became committed in early 2023 through the UK co-producers. It will be made available to licence payers on BBC iPlayer two years after release  as is standard for projects backed by BBC Films.

A spokeperson told me: The film will comply with our editorial guidelines when shown on the BBC. It will be interesting to see how they manage to do so. Ill give it a watch to see how they fare.
There is talk therapy, physical therapy and even massage therapy, but a new type of therapeutic approach is becoming increasingly popular.

Back scratching therapy.

Popping up in major cities across the US, professional back scratching entails 30-minute to hour-long sessions during which someone scratches your back, neck and head.

Some therapists use long acrylic fake nails to treat patients, while others use professional massage tools.

Proponents of the services claim they reduce stress, promote calmness and help with sleep.

Claiming to be 'the world's first and only scratch therapy professionals and influencers', Scratcher Girls offers back scratching services in Florida.

The company charges $75 for a 30-minute session and $130 for an hour-long back scratching session.

Scratcher Girls' founder, Toni George, told the Daily Mail she used to love getting back scratches from her grandparents as a child and this 'passion' led her to start a business around it.

Proponents of back scratching claim it reduces stress, promotes calmness and helps with sleep

Back scratching falls into the Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) category of massage

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Scratcher Girls also advertises services in New Jersey and New York for $250 for an hour-long session at a 'location disclosed 24hr of appointment.'

Other businesses in the US that specialize in back scratching therapies include Lather Head Spa in Tennessee and The Scratch Spa in Arizona.

Today, George said back scratching services are in high demand, and she services more than 20 customers a day.

She explained that back scratching falls into the Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) category of massage.

ASMR refers to the pleasant tingling sensation some people feel in response to certain gentle sounds or touch, often starting on the scalp and moving down the neck or spine.

George said: 'Scratch therapy is a gentle and relaxing type of therapeutic touch, using light scratching and tracing movements with the tips of the fingers and nails.

'It helps to relieve stress and anxiety, improves circulation and sleep whilst also boosting your mood as your brain floods your body with endorphins, leaving you with a sense of calm and peace.'

Videos posted to social media show therapists from the family-owned company in action, with them lightly scratching customers with their long acrylic finger nails.

Scratcher Girls' founder, Toni George (pictured on the right with her employees), told the Daily Mail she used to love getting back scratches from her grandparents as a child and this 'passion' led her to start a business around it

George of Scratcher Girls told this website that from providing her services for more than a decade she has seen how it can help ease stress, promote relaxation, improve mood and enhance sleep quality

The masseuses generally keep their acrylic nails on at all times, George revealed, as these are the main tools they use for the job.

Along with the back, George, said other popular areas for scratch therapy include the arms, the thighs and the head.

Dr Raj Dasgupta, an internal medicine specialist, told Daily Mail that while there isn't much scientific research on back scratching as a formal therapy, he can see 'how it could help people unwind or prepare for sleep.'

He added: 'Light, gentle scratching can stimulate the skin's sensory nerves and trigger the release of feel-good hormones [endorphins] that help the body shift into a calmer state.'

For those wanting to test out the benefits of back scratching but don't have such services close by, Dr Dasgupta recommended investing in a back scratcher.

He said: 'I haven't personally tried a professional back-scratching service, but I'd say using a back scratcher at home is a safe, enjoyable, and affordable way to add a little relaxation to your routine.'

George told this website that from providing her services for more than a decade, she has seen how it can help ease stress, promote relaxation, improve mood and enhance sleep quality.

Along with the back, Scratch Girls founder Toni George said other popular areas for scratch therapy include the arms, the thighs and the head

The entrepreneur revealed: 'Overall, backscratching is just one of the most powerful effective form of meditation and connection to ever experience. Its indulging for the mind and body all at the same time!

'Many of our clients report feeling emotional relief during or after the session.

'The therapy helps release stored stress, anxiety, or even emotional blockages, leaving them feeling lighter and rebalanced mentally and physically. Each treatment is customized to the individual clients own experience.'

Along with Scratcher Girls, a number of other professional back scratching services have surfaced.

The Art of Scratch, located in Chicago, also offers body scratching services.

Sessions start from $150 for an hour-long session and cost up to $200 for 90 minutes of scratching.

Founder, Mary, writes on the website: 'The Art of Scratch was born out of something we all miss as adults: the calming, tingling, soul-soothing power of touch, the kind that makes your whole nervous system go "ahhhh."

'As a self-trained practitioner, I do this because were starved for soft in a world thats hard.

'This is my gift, and I share it with those who need it, especially the ones who dont know they do.'

The entrepreneur revealed: 'Overall, backscratching is just one of the most powerful effective form of meditation and connection to ever experience. Its indulging for the mind and body all at the same time!'

Rebecca Benvie, the owner and sole therapist of Whisper Wave Spa in New York, also told the Daily Mail that scratching is something she incorporates into her sensory services as it 'helps regulate the nervous system, ease stress, and release tension.'

Benvie prides herself on founding one of the first dedicated ASMR spas in Manhattan.

Her services start from $150 for sensory therapies that 'use soft touch, sound, and different tools to calm the nervous system.'

Some of the benefits from back scratching and ASMR therapies are that 'many people leave feeling lighter, grounded, and deeply relaxed,' Benvie said.

She added: 'In terms of what to expect, my customers will lie comfortably on a massage table while I combine gentle touch with sound in a carefully designed sensory environment.

'The light, rhythmic touch activates the bodys parasympathetic response, which lowers cortisol and supports rest, connection, and emotional balance.'
It's an ugly fallout that this week shocked fans of the Olympic swimmer  Adam Peaty and bride-to-be Holly Ramsay have banned his mother from their wedding.

The astonishing family feud was reportedly sparked after Holly, 25, failed to invite her future mother-in-law to her hen party at celebrity hotspot Soho Farmhouse, with the bitter fall out explained yesterday in Caroline Peaty's own words in this newspaper.

Caroline Peaty, 59, instead stayed at home in Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, looking after her five-year-old grandson George, who former World Champion Adam, 30, shares with his ex-girlfriend Eirianedd Munro.

In the days since the news broke, a briefing battle has ensued which has seen Holly's famous father Gordon's PR machine jump into action.

The Peaty family have also taken to social media in force to argue they have been overlooked from the couple's wedding plans because they are 'simple people on benefits', who do not fit in with the Ramsays' polished look.

However, sources close to the Ramsays have pointed to 'wider problems' in the Peaty family which they claim is at the heart of the fall out.

Earlier this week, Adam's brother was also arrested over allegations he sent threats to him.

In Britain, research by the charity Stand Alone suggests around one in five families may be affected by estrangement  when family member's cutoff communication.

The astonishing family feud between Adam Peaty and his family was reportedly sparked after Holly Ramsey failed to invite her future mother-in-law Caroline to her hen party

Holly Ramsey held her hen party at celebrity hotspot Soho Farmhouse but reportedly left Caroline 'broken' with the snub

The Peaty family have also taken to social media in force to argue they have been overlooked from the couple's wedding plans because they are 'simple people on benefits' , who do not fit in with the Ramsays' polished look. Pictured, Holly and Adam with Tana and Gordon Ramsey

In the US, a 2022 study by researchers at Ohio State University found six per cent of respondents were estranged from a mother and a shocking 26 per cent from a father.

While the experience is still often cloaked in secrecy or shame, its no longer as taboo as it was.

Prince Harrys exodus from the Royal Family and his wife Meghans estrangement from her father have been played out under glaring spotlights.

And earlier this autumn, Amazon Prime's highly acclaimed six-part thriller The Girlfriend, saw one wealthy mother's picture-perfect life unravel after her son Daniel introduces his new girlfriend Cherry to the family, who hails from a working class background.

But according to some of the UK's leading psychologists, speaking to the Daily Mail, the phenomenon is multilayered.

There are, however, steps parents can take in such a situation.

'Family estrangement is one of the most heartbreaking estrangements and can be deeply painful and often complex,' Cornwall-based psychotherapist Bhavna Raithatha, accredited by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, says.

'When an adult child appears to choose a partner or new family over their own, it can leave parents reeling, feeling angry, disappointed rejected and powerless.

In 2022, Adam received his OBE, accompanied by his mother Caroline and father Mark at Windsor Castle. The honour reflected his successes at Tokyo 2020  where he became the first British swimmer to successfully defend an Olympic swimming title

The daughter of Gordon Ramsay welcomed her mother Tana, Victoria Beckham, Adam's sister Bethany and many more to her pre-nuptial celebrations

'But there are ways to cope and respond with compassion and steadiness.'

Since news of the row between Peaty and his family  apparently long-simmering  fans have been quick to lay the blame with the soon-to-be-wed couple.

For without his parent's sacrifices, Adam would perhaps never have become an Olympic champion and been offered a spot on Strictly Come Dancing  where he met Holly backstage in 2022.

As Adam himself put it in 2021: 'Parents are the unsung heroes of our sport.'

But Ms Raithatha adds: 'It's important to remember that we don't have the whole picture at all.

'We don't have the back story about Adam's relationship with his family or their involvement in his life and successes  he didn't achieve those alone.'

Accept that estrangement is rarely simple

Distance often builds over time through unresolved tensions  not just the influence of a new partner.

'Understanding this complexity helps reduce blame and defensiveness,' Ms Raithatha says.

Adam Peaty first met Holly, 25, in 2021 thanks to Strictly Come Dancing - he was competing on the BBC show alongside her sister, Tilly. They didnt begin dating until 2023

According to Cornwall-based Bhavna Raithatha, accredited by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, 'family estrangement is deeply painful and often complex'

Equally, people don't always realise how their actions affect us day by day.

London-based counsellor and member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, Georgina Sturmer, adds: 'It can be hard to make sense of estrangement, especially if we are entrenched in our usual patterns and behaviours.

'Consider whether you can step back and figure out what might have happened in the relationship.

'This reflection might help you to understand things better  and also to figure out whether a reconciliation might be possible.'

Be aware of controlling dynamics

In some, not all, cases of estrangement, a partner with narcissistic or controlling traits may isolate and drive a wedge between parents and their adult child.

But it is important to 'avoid direct confrontation,' Ms Raithatha says.

Instead, parents should simply remain calm and consistent and resist the urge to argue or fight back. This way, their child sees you as 'safe and steady', she adds.

'Understandably, this can feel incredibly difficult and painful to navigate. So, do ensure you have support from friends and other family as you navigate this.'

Adam has long claimed his supportive family have been crucial to his gold-medal Olympic success. In 2021 he even said: 'Parents are the unsung heroes of our sport'

Dont compete for loyalty

Attempts to 'win' your child back can create more division.

Remain calm, offering care and support 'without pressure and respect their autonomy', Ms Raithatha says  this maintains your dignity and boundaries.

Ms Sturmer agrees. 'Avoid apportioning blame on the new partner,' she adds.

'It may be tempting to lay all the blame at their feet. But in most relationships, there are push factors and pull factors.

'So while the new partner may have been a "pull" factor, there may also have been "push" factors that led to the situation, too.'

Reflect before reaching out

According to Birmingham-based counsellor and member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, Jodie McCormack, it's vital to confide in loved ones or someone supportive to process your feelings.

'If this isnt an option available to you, I often encourage people to write it all out in a letter so youre not holding onto it anymore and can get some release,' she says.

Carolines sister, Louise Williams, also became embroiled in the row when she jumped in to call influencer Holly divisive and hurtful in a rant about the family rift

In recent interviews, Adam has eagerly spoken about his future in-laws, enthusing that Gordon Ramsey 'inspires me to be successful'. Pictured, Adam is congratulated by Gordon at the at the finish of the London T100 Triathlon in August

'You wont be sharing the letter with anyone, its just for your eyes.'

This, she says, will help you reach out with a clearer, calmer mindset.

For Ms Raithatha it's important to ask yourself a key question before reaching out to your child  am I coming from love, fear, or pride?

'Communication shaped by empathy and curiosity invites dialogue more than guilt or persuasion ever could,' she adds.

'And after all, Adam seems to rely on Biblical quotes.

'So it might help to remember the wisdom in Proverbs 15:1: A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger".'

Prioritise your own wellbeing

Estrangement can feel like crushing grief and betrayal especially when parents feel they have invested their all into their children.

It's important, therefore, to be gentle with yourself and focus on healing rather than waiting, experts say.

Adam Peaty boasts three Olympic gold medals, eight world titles, and a string of world records in the 50m and 100m breaststroke events. Pictured, at the 100m breaststroke medal ceremony at the 2024 Paris Olympics

Pictured, Adam Peaty celebrates his 2024 Paris Olympic medal win with his son George, his mother Caroline and Holly

'It is hurtful to feel as though youre not included, especially as parents who have had a close relationship with their child,' Ms McCormack says.

'Letting go can be hard and frightening.'

For this reason, it's also vital to acknowledge your feelings properly and allow yourself time to grieve.

'It might be tempting to shut down and suppress these feelings, but it can be easier in the long run if we are honest about the impact that it is having on us,' Ms Sturmer adds.

'Family estrangement can be a deep type of loss. And yet it might feel like an invisible type of loss to some, as it hasnt involved a bereavement.

'But its a loss in so many ways, a loss of companionship, an empty seat at family events and traditions, a loss of an imagined future.

'Even if you have hope of reconciliation, allowing yourself to grieve whats happening right now can be a helpful step.'

Leave the door open  but dont wait by it

Theres no hard evidence on whether estrangement is becoming more common, as opposed to being just more commonly talked about, either in the US or the UK.

But psychotherapist's hunch is that its on the rise.

According to the British Association of Counselling and Psychiatry, almost half of therapists (43 per cent) have seen an increase in family issues over the past year.

More than a third of therapists (37 per cent) who work with men also say they have noticed a rise in clients presenting with family issues over the past year.

The Ohio State University study found the vast majority of estranged adult children eventually resume contact with their families.

But it may not always be a fairytale happy ending.

'Make it clear your love remains, without demands,' Ms Raithatha says.

'Then get on with your life and live fully. Acceptance brings peace, even when reconciliation takes time.'

During Holly's hen party, Caroline Peaty, 59 stayed at home looking after her five-year-old grandson George, who Adam shares with his ex-fiancee Eirianedd Munro (pictured)

Acknowledge that not all relationships are amicable

Estrangement, though seemingly on the rise, is a cataclysmic event in a family that can pit sibling against sibling, cut grandchildren off from grandparents, and reverberate down generations.

But despite taking all suggested steps, sometimes relationships can't be healed.

'This can be difficult and painful to navigate and come to terms with,' Ms Raithatha says.

And even if reconciliation does occur, in some cases 'historical hurt can again be activated during important events such as a wedding or the birth of a child', she adds.

'It's really important in these situations to seek professional help to process these feelings.'

For parents in this situation, consider how you can regain a sense of control,' Ms Sturmer says.

'This lack of control when relationships change can feel destabilising, especially for a parent.

'Focus on the elements of your life that you can control, so that you feel a sense of stability.'
As rates of a little-known 'taboo' cancer surge, especially among women, leading oncologists reveal the hidden risk factors and signs all adults should know.

When Charlie's Angels star Farrah Fawcett announced her anal cancer diagnosis in 2006, it sparked an overwhelming amount of speculation from fans and tabloids about her sex life.

The vast majority of cases are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection that an estimated 80 million Americans will contract at some point in their lives.

While most HPV infections are harmless, certain high-risk strains can lead to cancer years or even decades later as the virus gradually attacks cell DNA.

Fawcett died in 2009 at age 62. And at the time she was diagnosed, anal cancer was largely seen as a disease of gay men, with research estimating they could be 20 times more likely to be diagnosed with the disease - anal sex is a primary mode of transmission for the infection.

But Dr Amar Rewari, chief of radiation oncology at Luminis Health and adjunct associate professor at Johns Hopkins, told the Daily Mail his patient demographic has started to shift. More and more, he is seeing women over the age of 50 in his practice alongside gay and bisexual men.

Each year, anal cancer affects about 10,000 Americans, about 70 percent of whom are women. It kills just under 2,200, with an even split between men and women.

The overall risk of being diagnosed with the disease is about one in 500, according to the American Cancer Society, and it accounts for just 0.5 percent of all new cancer cases.

Farrah Fawcett, a 1970s TV icon best known for Charlie's Angels, revealed her anal cancer diagnosis in 2006. Fawcett died in 2009 at age 62 after the cancer spread. (Pictured: Fawcett with her longterm partner, actor Ryan O'Neal, who died in 2023)

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Anal cancer in the US had seen an average yearly increase of three percent from 2001 to 2015, but federal data suggest there has been a 46 percent surge between 2005 and 2018, largely among older women. (Like Erin Sullivan-Wagner, who was diagnosed at 48 years old.)

Cases rise as people age, and women are approximately twice as likely to contract it.

In one recent case report from the American Journal of Case Reports, doctors wrote about an unnamed 59-year-old woman who dismissed months of rectal bleeding as hemorrhoids. By the time she sought help, an MRI revealed a sizable tumor, and she was diagnosed with early-stage squamous cell carcinoma.

Doctors linked her cancer to an HPV infection. She later shared that she had engaged in anal sex with her long-term partner.

Since 2009, rates in women 40 to 64 have stayed high with a steady 3.7 cases per 100,000 women in that demographic.

Despite a long-term increase since 2000, men's rates have been in clear decline since their 2009 peak, falling by approximately 11 percent.

Dr Mona S Jhaveri, cancer researcher and founder of Music Beats Cancer, told the Daily Mail that about 88 percent of anal cancers are caused by HPV. The remaining 12 percent are attributed to other causes, primarily driven by chronic inflammation and immunosuppression.

How HPV affects anal cancer

HPV encompasses more than 200 viruses. Of those, about 30 strains affect the genitals, including the vagina, cervix, penis, scrotum, rectum and anus. Jhaveri noted HPV types 16 and 18 are most associated with anal cancer.

Rewari explained that it 'spreads through direct skin or mucosal contact,' and said that 'having multiple partners or engaging in receptive anal sex increases the chance of exposure simply because there are more opportunities for the virus to spread.'

Despite the associated stereotypes, Rewari told the Daily Mail this disease 'is not limited to any one group,' and that 'anyone who is sexually active can contract HPV.'

HPV lies dormant for months, years or even decades in the anal canal. Over time, it disrupts normal cell processes and chips away at their natural defense systems, which can cause mutations in genes meant to suppress tumors.

'That slow, silent process can eventually allow abnormal cells to grow into cancer,' Rewari said.

Erin Sullivan-Wagner, 66, (pictured with her grandson) was diagnosed with anal cancer in 2008 when she was 48 years old

The virus produces proteins called E6 and E7, which disrupt normal cell cycles and lead to the formation of precancerous lesions, called anal dysplasia.

HPV can also cause cervical, vaginal, penile, vulvar and oropharyngeal (throat, tongue and cheek) cancers.

'Key risk factors are high-risk HPV infection, history of anal warts or other HPV-related disease, immunosuppression, prior cervical or vulvar cancer, multiple sexual partners, receptive anal intercourse, smoking, female sex and age,' Dr Krushangi Patel, a medical oncologist at City of Hope in California told the Daily Mail.

It is possible, though uncommon, for anal cancer to develop without HPV's direct involvement, solely driven by chronic inflammation.

Anal cancer is almost as frequent in patients with Crohn's disease as colorectal cancer (42 percent and 50 percent, respectively).

Chronic inflammation leads to the formation of deep ulcers and sores that tunnel through the intestinal wall. As these deep ulcers worsen, they can make a tunnel outwards from the inside of the intestine seeking a way to drain the buildup of dead cells, bacteria and fluid.

The tunnel eventually connects the inflamed intestine to another structure. In the case of a perianal fistula, it connects the intestine to the skin around the anus, creating an abnormal drainage channel.

Once it ruptures through to the surface, the tract it creates remains as a fistula, which continues to drain fluid and pus from the still-inflamed intestine.

The above graph from the American Cancer Society shows the gradual increase in anal cancer cases from 1975 through 2023, the latest data available

The chronic inflammatory environment itself, with its constant cycle of tissue damage and repair, releases reactive molecules that cause DNA mutations in the rapidly dividing cells, which can eventually lead to cancer.

In stage one anal cancer cases, the five-year survival rate is 85 percent, according to the American Cancer Society. If it spreads to distant organs, however, that rate dwindles to 36 percent.

Why are cases growing?

While the HPV vaccine can prevent about 90 percent of infections, the shot wasn't rolled out until 2006. Additionally, it was only recommended for girls and women ages nine to 26, leaving older women unprotected.

Now, men and women between 27 and 45 can get the shot if they missed out on it when they were younger. However, it still has not been approved for those over 45.

'We are seeing the long-term effects of infections that occurred before HPV vaccination existed,' Rewari told the Daily Mail. 'People who were infected decades ago are now at the age when these cancers tend to appear.

'Longer life spans, more people living with immune suppression, and better awareness also contribute to the increase.'

The one million Americans living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are also thought to be at a greater risk of developing anal cancer, as HIV suppresses the body's immune system from fighting off viruses like HPV.

HIV-positive individuals are also at a greater risk of repeated HPV infections, raising their risk of anal cancer.

Experts told the Daily Mail that avoiding smoking can lower the risk of anal cancer, as it is thought to introduce thousands of carcinogens into the body that can travel to the anus and weaken the immune system.

Mainly, however, they encourage people to get an HPV vaccine and practice safe sex.

'The most powerful prevention tool we have is the HPV vaccine,' Jhaveri said.

'We need to advocate for safe sex practices such as using condoms, and reducing the number of partners can help avoid an HPV infection.'

Symptoms of anal cancer

Symptoms include anal bleeding, lumps near the anus and pain and pressure around the area.

Rewari said signs can also include changes in bowel habits or mucus discharge - 'these symptoms should never be ignored.'

In fact, ignoring signs of anal cancer can cause the disease to spread to other organs.

Rewari suggests anyone with symptoms that persist for more than a few weeks should see a doctor, adding that 'early detection gives the best chance for cure.'

The above graph from a 2022 study in the Journal of Clinical Oncology shows an increase in anal cancer in men and women above the age of 50 in 2014 - 2018 compared to 2001 - 2005

While it may seem like a given to report symptoms instantly, the stigma around the condition - both based on its uncomfortable symptoms and its connection to sex - can make it difficult for some.

Its taboo nature can stop someone from 'reporting what [they] suspect might be anal cancer because they are afraid of being judged for their sex practices,' Dr Carole Lieberman, a psychiatrist and public health expert in Beverly Hills, told the Daily Mail. 'Women are especially uncomfortable talking about this with their male doctors.'

But, Rewari said, 'these are medical issues, not moral ones - honest conversations can make a real difference.'
One of the hardest things about quitting cigarettes is knowing what to do to keep your hands busy when you'd typically be reaching for a smokeand the same is true of vapes.

Britons are now vaping in unprecedented numbers, with roughly one in ten adults estimated to be hooked on the little gadgets' nicotine-infused flavoured mist.

While vapes are still a safe method for quitting smoking, experts have warned of the health dangers from the chemicals, solvents, sweeteners and flavourings in e-cigarettes.

Dr Marc Picot, a GP and recovering vape addict, knows too well the irritating sensation of feeling like your hands are empty, describing it as 'physical discomfort' which can be 'difficult to express'.

He told the Daily Mail: 'Breaking free from vaping comes with its own set of challenges beyond just dealing with nicotine withdrawal,' he said.

'The physical habit of raising your hand to your mouth can be just as hard to beat as the chemical addiction.'

This happens because 'vaping creates strong hand-to-mouth habits which become behavioural dependency'.

He added that the physical action of 'lifting the device to your lips, breathing in and breathing out becomes part of your daily routine.

Dr Marc Picot, a GP, [pictured] has revealed how to overcome a bizarre withdrawal symptom from quitting vaping

'This repeated motion creates a strong pattern that your brain links to pleasure and stress reliefs.

'Physical movements like hand motions are vital to satisfaction and help reduce cravings, even without nicotine.'

And it is something to take seriously. He said: 'The hand-to-mouth ritual is one vaping's most addictive parts.'

Dr Picot knows the struggles of quitting vapingand keeping your hands busyoh too well after he weaned himself off the battery-powered devices.

He's been vape free for a year, and his experiences and learnings inspired him to write a book, The Last Puff, as well as create the Vape Escape app, which are both designed to try to help other people who want to quit the dirty habit.

'Knowing how these mechanisms help explain why finding something else to do with your hands is everything in successfully quitting vaping,' he explained.

With this in mind, these are Dr Picot's top five things people can do when they feel their hands twitching, that aren't reaching for a vape.

Get a fidget toy

The GP recommends reaching for fidget toys when you feel the urge to pick up a vape

Fidget toys are beloved by children, and used by adults to manage stress or conditions like ADHDand they can help retrain your brain to stop craving vapes.

'These toys can help break old hand habits by giving them something else to do,' explained Dr Picot.

The first he recommends are fidget cubes, which he said, 'you can click, flip and roll just like a vape'.

If you're feeling strong cravings to vape, he also recommends 'stress balls' which you can squeeze.

There are also small fidget spinners, he explained which 'you can use without drawing attention'.

A little-known fidget toy, he said are simply worry stonessmooth polished stones that you rub your thumb back and forth on'that give you something to touch'.

'These items keep your hands busy during the worst cravings - [which last] usually five to 20 minutes, and teach them new patterns,' he said.

Draw or sketch

Next, he recommends doing creative hobbies that use your hands like drawing or sketching

The second thing Dr Picot recommends is doing creative hobbies such as drawing, sketching, or playing a musical instrument.

'Creative activities keep your mind and hands busy, which helps replace the vaping habit,' he said.

'A small sketchpad and coloured pencils give you a portable creative outlet'.

Meanwhile, 'learning to play a musical instrument, such as a guitar is perfect for occupying both hands and mind.'

But, if you've never considered yourself creative before and these feel too daunting, he recommends journaling.

'Document your thoughts, feelings, and healthier behavioural actions you take when you get a craving,' he said.

Snack (healthily)

His third tip is to eat healthy snacks when you have a craving such as nuts, fruit or yoghurts

When you quit vaping, Dr Picot explained it 'creates natural cravings for something in your mouth'... bring on the snacks.

But he said not to eat anything which is 'high in sugar or ultra-processed' because they 'cause transient spikes [in your nervous system], just like nicotine in vapes, that will lead to a crash afterwards'.

Instead, Dr Picot recommended ensuring you have healthy snacks easily accessible so you can reach for them.

These, he said, could include 'almonds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds and walnuts', which he said are 'all high in L-tyrosine'.

This he explained is 'the building block' to the happy hormone dopamine, which he warned 'your brain will be temporarily depleted in'.

He also recommends having 'bananas, yoghurts, and citrus fruits', which he explained 'help convert L-tyrosine into dopamine'.

Puzzles

He also recommends doing hand and mind-stimulating activities and games during cravings

The fourth thing Dr Picot recommends is doing either games or activities that are either physical or on mobile apps.

This could include 'crosswords, sudoku, or solving a Rubik's cube', which he said are 'not just good for your hands, but occupy your mind, a crucial combination'.

If you're looking for ones on your phone, he also recommends the mobile apps 'Flow Free, Two Dots and Fruit Ninja'.

These three games, he said 'are all low-stress and absorbing, requiring attention and keeping your hand fully occupied'.

However, if you're playing games on a computer, he said 'these should be reserved for short-term use'.

He said while 'they can be an effective tool to occupy your hands and give you a temporary dopamine boost', long term they 'can be addictive in themselves'.

So, for computer games, he said 'set a time, no longer than 30-45 minutes at a time, this should be long enough to outlast a craving'.

Be prepared

His last recommendation is to put all these tools as well as sugar-free gum, mints and toothpicks to satisfy 'oral cravings' into a kit that you can easily reach for

The final thing Dr Picot recommends is putting together a kit full of these tools, so they are to hand when you have 'unexpected cravings'.

In this kit he said you can also keep other things that 'satisfy oral cravings' such as 'sugar-free gum, mints or toothpicks'.

This is also where you can store your fidget toys, healthy snacks and the journal to identify patterns and take healthier actions, he explained.

'Keep your kit in places where you'll usually get vaping urges - your car, desk drawer, or next to your bed,' he said.

'You should have these tools whenever the cravings hit.'

By 'using the right-hand substitutes' you can 'boost your chances of successfully quitting vaping for good,' he said in a final remark.

Why is it a good idea to quit vaping?

It's an emerging field of research, but studies suggest e-cigarettes could pose worrying health dangers.

In 2023, a study found people who vaped had DNA damage in mouth cells at similar levels to smokers.

Another found people who smoke and vape are four more times likely to develop lung cancer than those who just smoke.

One study last year found chronic vaping is also linked to impaired blood vessel function, which is an early sign of heart disease.

There have also been several warnings from self-proclaimed vaping addicts that the habit left them in serious conditions in hospital.

Vaping addict Jordan Brielle, from Cincinnati, Ohio, was hospitalised with collapsed lungs in May last year.

She was rushed to hospital after her partner found her unresponsive with 'black mucus' dripping out her nose and mouth.

Once at hospital, doctors suctioned two litres of 'black' fluid from her lungs and placed her into a medically induced coma for 11 days.

Ms Brielle confessed she hasn't touched a vape since and is now warning others to steer clear of the habit.
It was midway through her final year at college when Roxy Murray woke up blind in one eye and with double vision in the other.

Terrified, the 18-year-old rushed into hospital where a scan found that her brain was swelling, and she was put on a course of steroids to relieve the pressure.

It was the first time in my life that Id had anything wrong with me  Id never been hospitalised before, or even very ill, says Roxy, now 37.

After further investigations, the teenager was diagnosed with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disorder that can, in rare cases, cause pressure to build up in the skull, and was put on strong medication that doctors said would clear up the problem. But that A&E visit turned out to just be the first of many for Roxy in the lead-up to eventually  eight years later  being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS).

The condition, a chronic neurological disease, affects more than 130,000 people in the UK, and usually emerges in patients in their 20s and 30s. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective coating of the bodys nerves  called myelin  damaging the brain and spinal cord.

Symptoms include vision problems, muscle weakness, numbness and fatigue. Early treatment with immune-suppressing medication is essential to slow or halt progression. Left untreated, it can cause paralysis, blindness and loss of bladder control, and raises the risk of potentially deadly infections.

The majority of patients have a form of the disease known as relapsing-remitting MS, where the symptoms come and go.

This can eventually become secondary progressive MS, where symptoms steadily worsen over time.

Doctors thought Roxy Murray had lupus, but eight years later she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis

About a tenth of patients have an aggressive form called primary progressive MS, where symptoms gradually get worse with no periods of remission.

MS is also nearly three times more common in women.

But for many, it can take years to get a diagnosis. In fact, studies show that MS patients commonly endure symptoms for as long as ten years before finding out what is wrong with them.

In Roxys case, it took nearly a decade in and out of hospital, including multiple emergency visits after passing out. This could happen to her anywhere  at home, on the train and even in the middle of the street. It meant that even early on, Roxy felt she didnt just have lupus.

It's a fact The first documented case of MS was a cousin of Queen Victoria, who meticulously tracked his symptoms in a diary. Advertisement

I knew others with the condition and my symptoms were so different, says Roxy. But I was young and overwhelmed by the whole situation, so I trusted what I was being told by medical professionals.

It was only when, aged 26, Roxy found that she couldnt raise her arm over her head to stack a shelf at work, that doctors began to explore the possibility of MS.

Once again in A&E, Roxy explained to a neurologist about her debilitating headaches, nausea and sudden fainting spells. She was given an MRI scan of her brain and spinal cord, and fluid was taken from around her spine for analysis. Then she was officially diagnosed with MS.

I had never heard of it before, says Roxy. But I was happy to have something that explained what I was going through.

Now, having spent the past decade on medication that dampens down her immune system, stopping further damage to her nervous system, Roxy says her headaches have abated and she hasnt passed out in years.

She has also made changes to her lifestyle  including quitting smoking, losing weight and eating more healthily.

Since starting medication, my MS has been stable.

But those eight years of being treated for lupus caused permanent changes to my mobility, says Roxy, who now regularly uses a walking stick.

Roxy now regularly uses a walking stick, as the eight years of being treated for lupus caused permanent changes to her mobility

Experts say cases like Roxys are so common because NHS doctors fail to recognise the symptoms of MS.

They tend to come and go, lasting for a few days or weeks and then fading into nothing, says Dr Ruth Dobson, professor of clinical neurology at Queen Mary University of London. This, combined with the fact that there can be years between MS attacks, and that many symptoms  such as fatigue  are not hugely specific to the condition, can mean it takes longer for doctors to put the pieces together.

Experts say that, in recent years, there has been an improved understanding of MS.

In 2022, landmark research concluded that, in many cases, MS can be triggered by the Epstein-Barr virus, which causes the common childhood illness glandular fever.

There are also a growing number of medications that can slow the progression of MS. These drugs, known as disease-modifying therapies, protect the nerves from being attacked by the immune system.

However, these drugs work best when patients are treated early on in their disease  meaning delays to diagnosis can be life-changing.

Doctors need to be more aware of the symptoms of this condition, says Roxy. And patients should read up on the signs too, so they can advocate for themselves.

The easy-to-miss symptoms of MS

According to the MS Society, symptoms of the condition can come and go and change over time, ranging from mild to severe.

While they vary from person to person, the charity advises that anyone who experiences the following symptoms should ask their GP to look into the cause:
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Its not just every store, brand and influencer currently in high-speed Christmas mode but my social-media feeds are packed with people untangling fairy lights and pondering what colour sequins to wear. While I adore Christmas dressing up, when it comes to picking my festive looks, I like to take things slow and steady to avoid getting hysterical about the trimmings. Here are my tips for stress-free party-wear planning.

Remember those great basics already in your wardrobe. Leather trousers and skirts, black wide-leg trousers, blazers? They are all perfect for teaming with festive pieces.

Dont overcomplicate things. Party dressing is often the most impactful when its kept simple. For example, a new feather or sequin top can be styled numerous ways and will go with all those fantastic basics I was talking about.

Mix textures. A velvet jacket or trousers styled with silk exudes chic vibes, while skirts or cami tops with a lace trim are glam contenders for a Christmas outfit.

Avoid poor-quality sequins. Instead invest in one or two good pieces you can rewear for New Year celebrations and season after season. Joseph and Self-Portrait do fabulous investment party pieces.

Jacket, Theory. Shirt, Cos. Trousers, Frame. Bag, Toteme. Ring, Bottega Veneta. Boots, Russell & Bromley

Use accessories to add instant festive fizz. I love a sequin or feather clutch, statement earrings, pearl or silver jewellery. Gold heels always enrich a look.

Keep colours standout. A velvet trouser suit will look striking in deep red or dark green. A black tuxedo and white shirt say festive cool. While burgundy, deep blues, whites and creams are all impactful hues at this time of year.

Get arty. Play with structure and shape: labels such as Jacquemus and Pleats Please Issey Miyake always have eye-catching cuts.

Peruse preloved. Fancy something sparkly and designer  but at a snip? Now is the time to start exploring preloved sites, such as Ebay and Vestiaire Collective, where I often find great high-end festive pieces for a fraction of the original price.

@thestylistandthewardrobe

@youmagazine

SUITS YOU

Model Kaia Gerbers new collection has just dropped at Mango and features some instant party favourites, such as this wool-blend double-breasted blazer.

THE GLOVES TO LOVE

Looking for a stylish gift? Cast your eyes upon these leather gloves with tiny studs by designer Lulu Guinness.

SPOTTED

Justine Lupe as Morgan in the hit Netflix series Nobody Wants This wearing cool knitwear brand Guest In Residence. Pieces by the label  including this vest  are at net-a-porter.com.
Do you know your rook from your conch? Your tragus from your helix? The answer for a growing number of middle-aged women is Yes! They are all parts of the ear ripe for piercing, and midlifers are having sparkly diamonds and gold studs punched through them in their many thousands.

Theres a reason our first outlet was in John Lewis, says Natasha Lyons, CEO of piercing chain Tish Lyon, alluding to the stores slightly older, middle-class demographic  exactly the market for this ear-piercing boom, which has seen the trend for multiple piercings spread beyond its former teen and 20-something audience.

But whats behind this craze? When youre very young, says Lyons, its all about looking attractive to men, then when lots of women become mothers all the focus is on the family. Then comes the menopause and its very freeing. Personally, I no longer care about the male gaze, Im just doing things for myself. Lots of women have this new attitude: Im going to look how I want. I wont be dictated to by my parents, partner or kids.

YOUs features director Marianne Jones, 60, is about to have her fifth ear lobe piercing, and agrees with Lyons. Like my female friends, Im rediscovering my freedom, with the time and money to spend on things that bring me joy. And a very pretty diamond earring does it for me. She adds, For middle-class, middle-aged women these piercings are a safe way to make a statement  unlike tattoos, which are permanent and look awful on ageing skin.

Of course, tattoo parlours and piercing shops were, until recently, very similar. Unless you were off to Claires for a lobe piercing, you were entering stores selling bongs and skater clothes, while a heavily pierced dude stuck needles through people at the back. Im not knocking these places  they are where I had most of my nine piercings done and the quality is often exceptional  but they are not exactly appealing to 50-something women getting their ears done for the first time in 30 years.

Now a new breed of piercing parlour has popped up; think Astrid & Miyu and Maria Tash, which, alongside Tish Lyon, arent just non-intimidating but glamorous too. Lyons explains that in previous decades piercing used to involve titanium and steel, but the emergence of gold jewellery has helped the look appeal to a wider market. Its certainly led to the rise of the curated ear  the trend for a variety of hoops, huggies and studs across every nook of lobe and cartilage. Famous fans include Sienna Miller (43) and Charlize Theron (50). Compared to the piercings midlife women grew up with  the fierce look of 1980s punk or the belly button and nose piercings that became popular in the 90s  the curated ear is chic and pretty.

And its not just the end result that people love, but the process. As the high street moves towards experiences not just shopping, bougie piercing parlours are social hotspots. Lyons says her stores often host multigenerational sessions  mothers and daughters, a grandmother and a grandson  and planning the next appointment is part of the fun (My friends and I always talk about what were getting next, confirms Jones.)

For YOUs deputy editor Lindsay Frankel, a piercing session at Artmageddon in Macclesfield, followed by lunch, has become an annual tradition with her two sisters. We decided we didnt need more stuff, so for the past two years our Christmas present to one another is a piercing day out. We pay for each others piercings and it feels fabulous to come out with some sparkly jewels in our ears. We also discuss what were getting in the lead up, which is an excuse for lots of chat in our WhatsApp group. The first year we did this Id wanted my helix done for ages but was too scared, but my sisters egged me on and I love it  and it didnt hurt.

Indeed, some midlife piercing addicts love their new look so much they go beyond the ear, says Lyons. We have lots of ladies in their 50s getting their nose done, and they say, Ive always wanted to do this.

And the midlifers piercing jewellery of choice? We are selling a lot of diamonds, says Lyons. Now thats a self-gifting trend we can all understand.
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Next week marks the return of Beaujolais Nouveau, that yearly excuse to raise a glass (or three) to the new wines from Beaujolais: a celebration dating from the 1970s, and a friendly race to rush the first bottles from France to London. But theres more to it than youthful Nouveau. My selection highlights Beaujolais and Beaujolais-Villages with more depth, plus crus Fleurie and Morgon, with their complexity and verve.

Light and silky, perfumed with lilac, violet and red cherry  this graceful Fleurie is perfect served lightly chilled, even alongside fish dishes such as roast salmon or tuna nicoise.

Bright and juicy, with redcurrant and cherry fruit, this is an easy drinking, good-value Beaujolais full of freshness and charm  an ideal pour for midweek.

From the cru village of Morgon, this expressive red layers forest berries with an earthy undertone  ideal for dishes like roast duck.

With raspberry, blackberry and a touch of spice, this refined, vibrant wine is my perfect pick to go with charcuterie and a cheese board.
1983 and the school gate at my child's primary school was alive with gossip. A father had been seen with another woman. We took it in turns to hold this hot news, no one daring to hang on to it long enough to tell his wife. Everyone knows the messenger goes down in flames.

Finally, one brave woman told on him.

'Oh, I know,' the wife said. 'It's what we do. Our marriage isn't confined just to each other.'

Cue even more gossip - this time tinged with several unexpected emotions. An open relationship? Would that work for us? How could we find the time, we asked, while searching through lost property for our child's errant gym shoe.

How can you be sure the other person is as committed to 'no strings' as you are?

And, we agreed, we all felt sad for our friend, the wife in the open marriage.

Which is probably why I suspect there wasn't a woman of my generation, Baby Boomers, who did not shake their greying heads and murmur 'not again' when they heard Lily Allen's brilliant heart-breaking new album West End Girl.

In eye-opening lyrics, Allen details the fallout from the collapse of an open relationship, widely thought to refer at least in part, to her marriage to actor David Harbour.

Janet Ellis (pictured) has issued a warning about open marriages after seeing various affairs and relationship struggles while raiding her family in the 1980s

Janet's warning comes after the release of Lily Allen's album West End Girl that follows the break up of her marriage to actor David Harbour (pictured together in 2022)

This sounds like a tale as old as time. A woman falls for a charismatic and successful man. Who knows what conversation ensues that makes her agree to his request for an open relationship. In the first flush of love - indeed, in the cold light of day - perhaps it seems sensible and grown up? Who wants their partner to feel pinned down?

Negotiations take place that appear to protect both parties from potential jealousy or insecurity. Who could imagine their other half would ever really fancy anyone else to the extent they'd make plans, then make hay?

If that sounds naive, it was countered with the argument you were 'free'. Or so the advocates of open marriage would claim. Because, of course, the version of wedded bliss undertaken by our mothers and grandmothers women certainly weren't.

Being handed over by your father to your husband, with no financial independence and no real means of leaving should it all go wrong (at least not without heavy stigma) feels as anachronistic today as using a mangle or renting a video.

No one disputes that the advent of the permissive society, which followed easy access to reliable birth control, was anything other than a good thing for women. Not having to worry about getting pregnant was an amazing freedom. Choosing to have sex if it felt right? Also good.

Unlike our parents, we Boomers grew up thinking sex could be fun and spontaneous.

But did it all go too far? When the tide of the Swinging Sixties (which probably only happened in one street in Chelsea) became a wave in the Seventies, it changed not only women's freedoms, but male thinking too.

The new orthodoxy said that if a woman could have sex without being married and there was no risk of pregnancy, surely every one of us would be up for it? And if we weren't, we must be 'frigid' or 'unliberated'.

The former presenter's first experience of an open marriage was at the school pick-up where she'd heard one of the other parents had been spotted on a date and the wife knew (pictured with her children)

Of course that wasn't true either.

Asking your spouse to let another person into your relationship  to share not only your bed, but your headspace too  imposes a heavy duty on her. Be everything to me, you imply, otherwise I'll carry on adding others. And how can that be fair, in the end?

Besides, intimacy is a learned response. It's not just the sexual side of things, it's the accumulation of years of shared jokes, attitudes, disasters or triumphs. Most of the things that happen between two people in a marriage would be of no interest to anyone else.

Once you start to share even a small part of yourself (no pun intended!) with someone else, your spouse stops seeing all of you. You risk hiding things.

Indeed, the secondary relationship may begin to dominate in some key areas. Unless it's purely transactional and money has changed hands, isn't there always even the tiniest emotional connection? It's then that you enter the danger zone and it's no longer just an open relationship, but also a yawning chasm of unknown depth.

If you stay close in a marriage, you are each other's mirrors. And there's nothing like being seen by - and seeing - someone who really knows and treasures you.

Whether you're an A lister on the red carpet, or a mum in charge of the school tombola, at some point it's going to be just you, your partner and an empty evening with nothing on the telly. Unless you've worked together, you'll be driven apart.

My children's and grandchildren's generations take longer to choose long term partners than we did. When I was in my teens and twenties, it was vital to have a girl or boyfriend. At school, we even lined them up so there was no gap between 'chucking' and 'going out'.

Janet (pictured in 1983) explained that while a situationship may seem the way forward, they all end in tears and Lily Allen's high profile open arrangement won't be the only one to end in disaster

These days, a so-called 'situationship' is the way forward, at least at first. For those who don't know - and why should you - this is a way of exploring a relationship without emotional commitment. Young couples can discover shared values and try different ways of being themselves and seeing how they interact with each other without sending out wedding invitations.

Let's face it, they're going to live a lot longer than us and if they can avoid an early, often immature, relationships then it's all to the good. Been there, done that. I got married very young to Sophie's dad and - as everyone annoyingly predicted - we grew apart. We have a wonderful daughter and both went on to have long and happy marriages with other partners, but I still warm to my children's 'wait and see' approach.

It's also interesting to note that, once they have whittled the choice down to just one significant other, a great many of them formalise the union. There's still no better way to say (or shout!) to the world that you're happy together and plan to stay that way. As far as I know, none of them have added Open Relationship to their wedding lists or included it in the vows.

The fact is, the person  let's face it, often the man  who wants an open marriage is probably exactly the kind of person who'd have had affairs in days gone by. But affairs have become harder logistically than they used to be, what with technology and tracking and all that. So here comes a ready-made solution for the opportunity to stray. It's not infidelity, they cry. It's open. Sophisticated, smart and modern.

And yet it will probably still involve lies, as it appears it did for poor Lily Allen.

I'm truly sorry that Lily seems to have discovered, like so many women before her, that an agreement she reportedly made in good faith, that seemed to promise no emotional fallout, has ended so badly.

It'll be hard to explain to her two children (whom she obviously adores) and it's to be hoped they only pin blame on one man. Not mankind.

If you think open relationships work, you do you. But us old timers know how it pans out. We've seen it before. We'll wait.
Nearly a decade ago, I interviewed Li Shufu, founder and billionaire boss of Geely, which at the time I dubbed 'the biggest Chinese car company you've probably never heard of'.

I asked him then when his firm  it now owns brands such as Volvo and has a near 10 per cent stake in Mercedes-Benz owner Daimler  would be selling specifically Geely-badged cars in the UK. 'Too early to say,' was his non-committal reply. But he hoped to at some point.

Well, that point is now. Geely  Chinese for 'lucky'  has just enjoyed a launch in London, after which I took a test drive of its first model for British roads.

The EX5 is a large, comfortable, well-specced and keenly-priced all-electric SUV, with much to recommend it including a smart interior, a big boot and an eight-year warranty. Expect a hybrid version next year.

But there are a few irritating quirks, such as an over-reliance on the touch screen and control- freakery tendency to 'nanny' the driver with warnings and alerts.

Built in China, the EX5 has been fine tuned for UK roads at Geely's engineering base in Coventry, with input from Lotus.

Quirks: The Geely EX5 all-electric SUV  prices start at 31,990

With prices starting from 31,990 (before discounts), there are three trim levels  SE, Pro and Max, of which I drove the middle one.

Riding on 19in wheels (18in for SE trim), and powered by a 218hp (160kW) single-motor front-wheel drive electric motor, the five-seat EX5 sprints from rest to 62mph in a sprightly 6.9 seconds, up to a top speed limited to 106mph.

The 60kWh battery promises a range of up to 267 miles  it might get you from north London to Durham.

The front seats are incredibly comfy, folding back to near flat. There's also plenty of leg and headroom in the back, plus a 14-litre pull-out drawer under the rear seat.

It drives well enough. The default Comfort mode I found energetic and engaging, although Sport mode was almost too much. Eco is fine if you are having sweaty palms about finding a public charging point that works.

Most things are directed Tesla-style via the touch screen, which no doubt will take time to master.

But the real bug-bear is the constant nannying from the digital safety system going 'ping ping ping'. So please, Geely, give us the freedom to decide for ourselves.

The five-seat EX5 sprints from rest to 62mph in a sprightly 6.9 seconds, up to a top speed limited to 106mph

Most things are directed Tesla-style via the touch screen, which no doubt will take time to master

The 60kWh battery promises a range of up to 267 miles  it might get you from north London to Durham

Remember, whether it's a childminder, car or a nation state, nanny doesn't always know best.

But there are practical features.

Flexible boot space increases from 461 litres with seats up (and includes underfloor space) to 1,877 litres with the rear seats folded flat.

A rotary dial controls media volume, ambient lighting, and acts as a quick access button for heating controls including fan speed and temperature.

Entry-level SE trim level from 31,990 comes packed with standard kit including 18 inch alloy wheels, surround view cameras, a 15.4 inch central infotainment screen, a 10.2 inch LCD instrument cluster, navigation, keyless entry and go, wireless charging, Apple Carplay, privacy glass, a synthetic leather interior, heated steering wheel and comprehensive electronic advanced driver assistance and autonomous braking aids.

Mid-range Pro priced from 33,990 adds 19inch alloy wheels and extra interior trim options.

Range-topping Max costing from 36,990 adds yet more including a vast panoramic sunroof, a 13.8-inch head-up display, power tailgate, metallic paint, 256 colour ambient lighting, a16-Speaker FlyMe Sound premium audio system, front parking sensors, front seat ventilation, massage seats, memory settings and power adjustable front passenger seat leg rests.

There are 8 year warranties on the car and the battery, four years' roadside assistance for private buyers, and two years of free maintenance servicing.

To entice new buyers to the Geely brand, the company is also making some intriguing cash and finance deal offers.

This includes cash discounts of between 2,300 and 3,750, a 1,000 part-exchange offer on an existing petrol or diesel car.

There is also the option of a subsidised Anderssen EV home wall-box charger for 499 or a charging card with 500 of credit with Octopus Electroverse.

There are 8 year warranties on the car and the battery, four years' roadside assistance for private buyers, and two years of free maintenance servicing

There's also plenty of leg and headroom in the back, plus a 14-litre pull-out drawer under the rear seat

The range-topping Max costing from 36,990 adds yet more including a vast panoramic sunroof

The front seats are incredibly comfy, folding back to near flat

 Slide me  Flexible boot space increases from 461 litres with seats up (and includes underfloor space) to 1,877 litres with the rear seats folded flat

So the buyer of a top of the range Geely EX5 Max could see the headline 36,990 list priced reduced (via a 3,750 discount) to 33,240, and by a further 1,000 to 32,240 if they trade in an old petrol or diesel car.

There are also tempting pcp car finance deals from 339 per month with a deposit from 3,500.

Fast DC charging promises up to 80 per cent in 20 minutes, or 100 per cent in just over 6 hours from a 7kW home-charger.

As well as Volvo, other brands within the Geely family include Lotus, Polestar, Smart, Proton and LEVC, which builds the ubiquitous electrified London black cabs.

While the Geely name itself may not yet resonate here in Britain (give it time), its global footprint is huge with 3.3million worldwide sales in 2024. That includes across its brands selling 4.2 per cent of cars in the UK, including 1 in every 14 EVs. It also does satellites, microchips, smart aircraft and green tech.

That's quite an achievement for Geely's billionaire founder Li Shufu, who has adopted the anglicised name Eric and usually speaks through a translator but is known to understand and speak English. Born in 1963, the late baby-boomer Chinese entrepreneur began his fledgling business in 1986 selling refrigerators before expanding into motor bikes and then, in 1996, Geely motor cars. It's come a long way since those early days.

But then again, the Chinese are renowned for taking the long view. As Chinese premier Zhou Enlai reputedly (and probably apocryphally) told US President Nixon in the early 1970s when the American asked him his view of the impact of French Revolution: 'Too early to tell'.
A reader recently accused me of being a drama queen after I penned a coruscating article about Labours attack on our wealth in the forthcoming dogs dinner of a Budget.

Hes entitled to his opinion, of course. But its my job to call out any government which plans to hit our household finances and personal wealth with a barrage of higher taxes.

Especially one which spends money on benefits and public sector pay rises as if it was water. And one which doesnt seem to have a clue as to where it is going to get its extra tax revenues from.

One minute its letting us know that income tax rates are going up. The next, its saying they arent.

Whichever way the Chancellor Rachel Reeves (surely now a dead Chancellor walking) goes about plundering our finances in the Budget, it will be no small matter. The impact will be awful.

So if I can alert readers to what lies ahead, and help defend their finances and wealth from the nasties coming their way, I consider it a job well done. No drama.

Of the tax rises and restrictions on tax concessions coming our way, its the Governments assault on pensions that irks me the most.

Its damaging on many levels  and flies in the face of a promise made this year by Pensions Minister Torsten Bell to build a strong, fair and sustainable pension system. As Jim Royle of BBC sitcom The Royle Family would say: Fair pension system, my a**e!

Rachel Reeves pictured before her Budget last year. The impact of her next Budget on November 26 will be awful, writes Jeff Prestridge

Maybe it will be fair for those in public service with later life bankrolled by a gold-plated pension.

But not for those in the private sector. Since Labour stormed into power, the Chancellor (assisted by the hypocritical Bell) has gone out of her way to attack private pensions. In so doing she has undermined our confidence in these long-term savings vehicles  and tricked many into making financial decisions they now regret.

Foremost among the crimes committed is to allow rumours about cuts to pension tax-free cash to fester for far too long.

Reeves and her Treasury acolytes did this ahead of last years Budget, and they repeated the sin in the run-up to the Budget this month, panicking thousands of people into taking tax-free cash they didnt need.

Money that, if left inside their pension, would have continued to benefit from investment growth, swelling the size of their pot  and increasing the amount of tax-free cash they could take when they really needed it. Money that in most cases whether part spent on a luxury holiday, a home extension or simply parked in a cash account  triggered the payment of taxes, benefiting most of all the Treasury, of which the Chancellor is head.

A Treasury which is frantically looking for ways to fill an alarming hole in the nations finances, caused primarily by Labours reluctance to stop binge-spending.

Thankfully, Treasury officials have now made it known (unofficially) that tax-free cash will not be touched in the Budget. It means that, for the time being, those who really do need to access their tax-free cash can rest assured the rules arent changing.

That means they will be able to take a quarter of their pension fund as tax-free cash, subject to a 268,275 cash cap.

Fine and dandy? Yes, but I would bet my bottom dollar that come next summer the same rumours will resurface  and Labour will do little to quell them in the hope that it can persuade (dupe) yet more people to move cash from a tax-friendly investment wrapper into the tax domain.

My view is that the probability of a Labour crackdown on pension tax-free cash will ratchet up between now and 2029. Indeed, if next years Budget is delivered by a new Chancellor (maybe the tax-grabbing, free-spending Mr Bell) and overseen by a more Left-wing Prime Minister, a cut is a nigh on certainty.

Most likely is a reduction in the cap to 100,000, or even maybe just 40,000.

The Governments assault on pensions flies in the face of a promise made this year by Pensions Minister Torsten Bell (pictured) to build a strong, fair and sustainable pension system, writes Jeff Prestridge

So for those who next year are either planning to retire or pay off their mortgage, may I urge you to make a note in your diary along the lines of: Speak to an adviser about taking tax-free cash before the Budget. Youll thank me.

Sadly, there are other horrors happening to our pensions.

One is already confirmed: the inclusion of unspent pensions in estates from April 2027, a move which will drag tens of thousands more households into the inheritance tax net.

The other is speculative, but a dead cert given the research that Government officials have already done on implementing it.

It involves a clampdown on the use of salary sacrifice work pensions, which cut National Insurance (NI) bills for both workers and employers.

In simple terms, a worker gives up (sacrifices) a portion of their salary. In return, their employer pays an equivalent sum into their pension pot. By doing this, the worker pays less NI, resulting in more take-home pay. The employer also has a lower NI bill because they dont pay it on the salary diverted into the workers pension.

A third of private sector employees use these schemes, but Reeves is keen to recoup a big chunk of the annual 4.1 billion lost in NI revenue. This will be done by capping the amount of salary that employees can sacrifice.

It is best illustrated by way of example (thank you, wealth manager AJ Bell).

Thelma earns 55,000 a year, but sacrifices 10 per cent (5,500) into her work's pension. Her annual take-home pay is 39,161, higher than the 38,720 she would have got if the 5,500 pension contribution had been taken from 55,000 of gross salary. This is because she would pay more NI on 55,000 than 49,500. The employer also wins because its NI bill is cut from 7,500 to 6,675.

But if, as rumoured, Reeves imposes a 2,000 cap on salary sacrifice, both Thelma and her employer lose out. Although Thelmas pension contributions would remain the same, her take-home pay would drop to 39,043 while her employers NI bill would rise to 7,200.

The ramifications are massive. The Thelmas of this world would likely reduce their pension contributions to make good the loss in take-home pay. Some employers would look to mitigate the higher NI costs by trimming the payments they make on behalf of employees  or cutting employee numbers.

If you are in such a pension arrangement, I would seriously look to increase your sacrifice now to boost your pension funding before the cap comes in. Any Budget change is unlikely to bite until the new tax year in April.

Reducing the incentive to save into a pension fund makes no sense whatsoever. All it will do is increase the number of people (currently 15 million) who do not save enough for retirement  and who will need benefits to support them in later life.

Fair? No. Its pension policy dreamt up in a political madhouse.

Sadly, there could be more bad pension news in the Budget, given the Chancellor has decided after all not to break Labours manifesto by jacking up income tax rates.

Ruling out this big tax grab means she has to look for other sources of revenue  and potential cuts to costly tax breaks. It means she could crop the respective 40 and 45 per cent tax relief on pension contributions which higher and additional rate taxpayers enjoy.

For sure, introducing a flat rate of tax relief  20 or 30 per cent  would be welcomed with glee by most Labour MPs. As would a reduction in the 60,000 annual cap on contributions eligible for tax relief.

So tuck as much money away inside your pension as you possibly can before Reeves makes life more difficult. And no  Im not being a drama queen.
In 40 days' time, people will be sitting down for their Christmas dinner in joyous celebration.

For some, though, it may serve as a reminder that backing food and drink companies is a classic defensive investment strategy.

When times are tough, people still need to eat  but maybe also have the odd drink and be merry.

News this week heightened the attraction of such a game plan. Sir Dave Lewis, the man who rescued Tesco from disaster a decade ago, has been appointed to the top job at Diageo  the troubled 40billion Guinness and Johnnie Walker alcohol conglomerate.

The City appears to have considerable confidence that 'Drastic Dave', as he is nicknamed, can perform a miracle for Christmases to come.

This would be a tonic (with or without Gordon's gin or Smirnoff vodka) for Diageo's despondent shareholders, but the spectre at the feast is the Budget in 11 days' time, with rumours that Chancellor Rachel Reeves will again raise taxes on alcohol.

Serving up a feast: When times are tough, people still need to eat  but maybe also have the odd drink and be merry

'Shopper apprehension' ahead of Reeves' speech has already caused supermarket sales to slow in recent weeks.

Supermarkets, which were hit by employer National Insurance rises and other tax blows in last year's Budget, may be calling for a 'pro-jobs, pro-growth' statement that spares the retail trade. Will the Chancellor listen? We will not know until November 26, despite the speculation.

But if you are looking for short or long-term diversification, the 76billion UK wine and spirits sector is an inviting prospect  particularly if you are re-positioning your portfolio to gain more exposure to British stocks.

The FTSE 100 reached a record 9,808 this week before falling yesterday amid Budget jitters.

Yes, apprehension may surround the impact of the Budget, but there still are reasons to be cheerful about UK plc.

Food and drink might be seen as a safe haven, but hazards lurk. Sales at private equity-owned Asda dropped by 6 per cent over the past quarter, indicating that discounts alone are no longer sufficient to entice even the cash-strapped.

Alexandra Jackson, manager of the Rathbones UK Opportunities fund, says: 'This is a sector defined by its razor-thin margins, operational complexity, intense competition and volatile consumer trends.'

The latest include the 'sober curious' movement among members of Gen Z, the target clientele for Diageo's Casamigos and other tequilas.

But supermarkets are the beneficiaries of another consumer behaviour shift, dubbed 'staying-in is the new going out'.

In response to the expense of restaurant food, households are opting for supermarkets' premium ready meals. Diageo should be able to supply the accompanying wines.

Figures from analytics group NIQ highlight the appetite for premium private label dining.

Sales of Marks & Spencer's ranges are not only bounding ahead in its own stores, but also through its venture with Ocado.

To the chagrin of investors, including myself, M&S shares are down this year owing to the cyber attack that paralysed its operations in the spring.

Yet analysts rate its shares, which stand at 353.7p, a 'buy' based on the view that the British will want to spoil themselves this Christmas  and beyond.

Tesco

Britain's number one grocer controls 28.3 per cent of the market.

The aim is to achieve a 30 per cent share by offering more value to customers who might otherwise abscond to the German discounters Aldi and Lidl, and by appealing to the more affluent through its Finest premium label range.

Tesco's buoyant state contrasts markedly with its predicament in 2014 at the height of the accounting crisis that had engulfed the company. Luckily, Lewis arrived to save the day.

Ken Murphy, Lewis's successor, is also seen as a class act.

Jackson says that Murphy's adroit capital allocation decisions, which reflect 'a deep understanding of what drives long-term performance', are the reason why Tesco is the cornerstone of her fund.

At 438.4p, Tesco shares are 18.5 per cent higher than at the start of the year, although they are still below the 606p peak in 2007.

No analyst forecasts a return to such heights, but they do rate the shares, which offer a 3 per cent dividend yield, a 'buy'.

I took a tiny stake in Tesco in February 2024, when the shares were 285p.

I was following my own advice in this column, partly spurred by purchases of pieces of Tesco F&F clothing items that people assumed were designer.

I am not selling.

Sainsbury's

Sainsbury's, which holds second place in the UK supermarket league with 15.3 per cent share, has long been in Tesco's shadow.

But analysts sense that Sainsbury's may be stepping more into the limelight following a better-than-expected first-half performance.

Sainsbury's is benefiting from its Nectar loyalty scheme and from staying in is the new going out.

Chief executive Simon Roberts says that more customers are sampling its Taste The Difference range.

The disposal of its banking operation to NatWest has also boosted the company, and the next sell-off could be Argos, which owns homeware business Habitat.

However, Argos is likely to fetch rather less than the 1.1billion Sainsbury's paid for it in 2016.

Most analysts consider Sainsbury's a 'hold' at 322p. Sainsbury's shares could maintain their upward momentum if it enjoys a bumper festive season. Income seekers will like the 6 per cent dividend yield.

Diageo

Shares in Diageo leapt by 8 per cent this week on news of Lewis's appointment. The heavily indebted group's many problems include not only Gen Z teetotalism, but a move among all generations to 'low-or-no' alcohol.

Non-alcoholic Guinness Zero is proving to be a favourite among all age groups.

Yet selling Guinness is one option open to Lewis if he agrees with an analysis from the Swiss bank UBS that Diageo could be worth 40 per cent more if broken up.

As an investor, I am hoping that Lewis will deploy all his expertise, especially since Diageo's shares have fallen by 20 per cent since last Christmas to 1793.5p.

Among the 20 brokers that follow the stock, six consider Diageo a 'buy'. The rest contend that the shares are worth holding.

The bounce in Diageo shares following Lewis's appointment suggests the audacious are taking a flutter on such an outcome, which would certainly be an excuse for a toast in Casamigos, Guinness Zero or Smirnoff. With maybe some M&S, Sainsbury's or Tesco canapes, too.
Shareholders in investment trust Temple Bar have seen the value of their holdings surge over the past five years  but according to the fund's managers, the party's not over yet. Far from it.

Ian Lance and Nick Purves, part of global investment house Redwheel, claim that there are more stellar gains to come, albeit not on the scale of the recent past.

Since mid-November 2020, the trust, invested primarily in UK stocks, has delivered returns of 158 per cent, more than twice that from the FTSE All-Share Index (77 per cent) and the average for its UK equity income peer group (61 per cent).

Their modus operandi is built around value. Lance says: 'We identify chronically undervalued companies and then hold them in the expectation of their real value coming through.

'When they become winners, we run with them while trimming the holdings to help rotate the trust towards areas of the market where we see new opportunities.'

When the managers took over at the helm in late October 2020, finding 'value' stocks was not difficult given the dire economic backdrop as the UK lurched from one lockdown to another.

Lance says: 'We bought shares in Marks & Spencer for under 1, while shares in NatWest had plunged to the level they traded at in the depths of the 2008 financial crisis. We were brave, the shares were distressed, but we held our nerve and our approach has been vindicated.'

Over the past five years, shares in M&S and NatWest have jumped 193 per cent and 292 per cent respectively. Both stocks remain in the fund's top-ten holdings.

Although Lance says UK company valuations are nowhere near as distressed as they were in 2020, he insists that undervalued stocks can still be found.

For example, they took a position early this year in Johnson Matthey, a UK business specialising in precious metals and clean power. It followed US activist investor Standard Investments taking a stake and accusing management of 'sustained underperformance'.

In May, Johnson Matthey announced that it would be selling its catalyst technologies unit to US conglomerate Honeywell for 1.8 billion, with shareholders benefiting by way of a future special dividend.

Lance says: 'We initially had a 3 per cent stake. Today, as a result of the strong performance of the shares, Johnson Matthey is our biggest holding at 5.6 per cent.'

While the trust's 37 holdings are largely UK stocks (Dutch financial group NN is the only non-UK listed company among the top ten), the managers can invest up to 30 per cent of assets overseas.

Four months ago they used the profits generated from shaving their stakes in UK banks to build positions in South Korean banks Hana and Woori.

Lance says: 'Usually, when we buy into a company, we do so because something is wrong. But with these banks that wasn't the case. They were just undervalued and offering a dividend yield of 7 per cent. Both holdings are up in value by more than 30 per cent.'

The manager believes US equities are overvalued, compared to European, Japanese and UK shares, and warns that the artificial intelligence (AI) bubble 'could burst'. If so, he says a trust such as Temple Bar will offer protection because of its emphasis on low-value stocks.

The fund has 1.1 billion of assets, low annual charges of 0.61 per cent, and pays quarterly dividends. The shares trade just above 3.60, a small premium to the value of the underlying assets. Its market ticker is TMPL and identification code BMV92D6.

Watch our Investing Show interview with Ian Lance from April 2025 below.
Sir Martin Sorrell has joined a list of entrepreneurs warning the Government not to stifle or constrain aspiring business founders on the eve of the Budget.

In an open letter, several business leaders including the media tycoon  founder and former boss of media conglomerate WPP  said while the UK has a proud tradition of entrepreneurship, this was being undermined by escalating costs following tax raids in last year's Budget.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves decision to hike costs for employers, including National Insurance Contributions, as well as increases in the rates of capital gains tax and the fear of a separate wealth tax, has sparked an exodus of prominent business leaders from the UK in recent months.

In October, Nik Storonsky, the billionaire founder of finance app Revolut, moved his residency from Britain to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

And last week Herman Narula, head of tech firm Improbable and the richest self-made British entrepreneur under 40, also announced he was going to the UAE after reports Reeves was considering setting up an exit tax for wealthy individuals moving abroad  although she later abandoned the idea.

In the letter, the business bosses said the exodus of entrepreneurs was alarming and called on the Government to be more favourable in this years Budget.

Warning: Sir Martin Sorrell has joined a list of entrepreneurs warning Reeves not to stifle or constrain aspiring business founders

It also noted that the UK ranked 23rd in the world as the best place to start a business  the sixth year in a row outside the top 20.

We need to empower the energy and dynamism of entrepreneurs, not stifle or constrain them, it said.

Alongside Sorrell, who heads up media firm S4 Capital, the letters signatories included Nick Wheeler, founder of clothing chain Charles Tyrwhitt, John Roberts, the boss of white goods retailer AO World and Steve

Rigby, the head of investment firm Rigby Group. Their intervention, which comes as the founders gather for the UKs

Global Entrepreneurship Week tomorrow, joins a growing chorus of business leaders calling on the Chancellor not to hit them with even more taxes in her Budget later this month.

In October, a group representing the UKs retail and hospitality sectors warned that as many as 120,000 jobs could disappear if the Chancellor followed through on plans to hike property taxes on larger shops, pubs and hotels
Germany is planning to let pensioners earn up to 1,760 a month tax free to tempt them to stay in jobs or come out of retirement.

It begs the obvious question - is it a good idea that could work here?

The deal on offer from 1 January is aimed at boosting the German economy by keeping skilled and experienced people in the workforce.

The Aktivrente or 'active pension' plan being pushed by Chancellor Friedrich Merz will be open to German workers after they reach the statutory retirement age of 67.

However, some workers will be excluded such as civil servants, the self-employed and tradespeople.

And although other pensioners can earn up to 2,000 a month tax free, they will also keep on having to pay social insurance contributions.

Extra revenue from that source, plus any economic growth generated, could help offset or more than pay for the estimated 890million (785million) a year in lost tax.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz: Supports 'active pensions' to keep older Germans in the workforce and boost the economy

What does the UK offer older workers?

People over 66 get an extra 5.8 per cent added to their state pension payments for each year they delay taking it.

That can be helpful to those who stay in work and would be pushed into a higher tax bracket if they took their state pension on top of their salary.

Older workers do not have to pay National Insurance - our version of German social insurance contributions - if they keep earning after reaching state pension age at 66.

Younger employed workers pay 8 per cent NI on basic rate earnings, and 2 per cent on anything over that.

However, pensioners would feel sore about that 'perk' if Chancellor Rachel Reeves still went ahead with a rumoured plan to raise income tax by 2p and cut National Insurance by 2p.

That is reportedly off the table again now, but if the '2 up, 2 down' idea was announced in the Budget on 26 November, it would result in most taxpayers seeing no change to their take-home pay. Pensioners would get the 2p income tax hike only.

We asked pension experts what they thought of the German Aktivrente plan and whether it might work in the UK.

The '2 up, 2 down' idea would be a disincentive to return to work

'With the number of people in the UK aged 65 projected to rise by 3.3million in the next 20 years, and by 6.5million in the next 40 years, it makes sense to keep skilled people in the workforce,' says Martin Willis, partner at consultant Barnett Waddingham.

'Particularly more so given over one in five working-age adults are out of the workforce due to health reasons.'

But the UK would be moving in the opposite direction to Germany if two up, two down happens after all.

'It could disincentivise workers to return to work, at a time where we need boots on the ground.,' he says.

Willis says the UK has gained advantage in recent years from an established flexible retirement structure.

'People can vary their income, or choose to take up lower paid or part-time work in a way that fits their preferences.'

But he points out the first generations of people approaching retirement age now with predominantly 'defined contribution' pensions - rather than the more generous final salary ones - might need to work for longer, despite the increase in the state pension.

Martin Willis: UK has gained advantage in recent years from trend towards flexible retirement

Younger workers could feel left behind and blocked in careers

'Germanys move to offer a tax-free incentive to people who choose to work beyond retirement age reflects a reality many developed economies are grappling with - fewer working-age people, longer lives, and lower birth rates,' says Mike Ambery, retirement savings director at Standard Life.

'With the working-age population shrinking faster in Germany than in the UK, keeping experienced workers in the labour market could be an economic winwin.'

He notes that valuable skills will be retained and industries will benefit from continuity, while the tax system gains from extended contributions.

Meanwhile, the extra income earned by older people could help them with rising living costs, boost retirement savings, or provide more financial flexibility in later life.

But Ambery says the UK would have to design any similar policy to address workforce shortages and the rising cost of the state pension carefully.

'While rewarding those who want to stay on makes sense, its important that such incentives dont create a sense of pressure on people to work longer than theyd planned or can manage. For many, retirement is a health and lifestyle decision as much as a financial one, and any scheme should respect that choice.'

'Theres also a delicate balance to strike between generations.

'Younger workers could feel left behind without a similar incentive for their efforts and theres a chance that an ageing workforce could limit their own opportunities for progression, potentially causing resentment and issues with job satisfaction and motivation further down the line.'

Mike Ambery: 'Its important that such incentives dont create a sense of pressure on people to work longer'

Encouraging people to keep working is a 'win win'

The German reforms are example of how the tax system can incentivise individuals to work beyond state pension age, according to Aegon's pensions director Steven Cameron.

'Many countries, including the UK, face challenges of an ageing population and may look to older individuals to remain in work longer to boost their domestic economic growth.'

Cameron says research by Aegon has shown only 28 per cent of current employees expect to have a 'hard stop' retirement.

Meanwhile, actively encouraging people to remain in the workforce longer can be good for economic growth and individuals  a win, win.

'In the UK, (and unlike in Germany) those above state pension age dont pay National Insurance on earned income,' says Cameron 'Some have called for the Chancellor to remove this exemption  something which would discourage later life employment just when countries like Germany are doing the opposite.'

He says if the '2 up, 2 down' plan happened it might be neutral for most employees, but those above state pension age with earned income were one of the key groups who would lose out.

'They wouldnt "benefit" from any cut in NI but would have to pay the extra income tax  a disincentive to continuing in work.'
America's 'most in-bred family' have accused two men who made lucrative social media content about them of taking off with their money, as the pair face a police probe.

The Whittakers became internet famous five years ago, when a documentary highlighted their struggles with heartbreaking mental and physical defects and squalid living conditions on their run-down homestead in Odd, West Virginia.

Some family members can only communicate via odd words, grunts or barks and they were later dubbed America's 'most in-bred family'.

Social media groups about the Whittakers sprang up, and digital creators began to make and monetize content about them for their legions of newfound internet fans. Followers moved by the family's tragic story donated money and supplies in a bid to help them.

But in a twist, two content creators who chronicled the Whittakers' lives on social media are now at the center of a police probe over an alleged scam involving money and merchandise they received for the vulnerable family.

Lawrence 'Eric' Carroll, 41, of Waverly Hall, Georgia, and John 'Patrick' Roark, 46, who lives near the Whittakers in Odd, are under investigation by West Virginia State Police over a 'fraudulent scheme that involves money and merchandise being sent to the Whittaker family', the force said on Facebook.

Both men deny any wrongdoing.

Speaking from his home in Odd  80 miles south of the state capital Charleston  Roark insisted he had done nothing wrong and pointed the finger squarely at his former collaborator, Carroll.

Betty Whittaker, 73, and her brother Larry spoke to the Daily Mail from the family's cabin in Odd, West Virginia last week

The Daily Mail first visited the Whittakers in 2023 and was welcomed by several family members including Betty (center), Timmy, 46, (left) and Lorene, 79, (right)  both of whom are now under the state's guardianship

West Virginia State Police announced an investigation into a 'fraudulent scheme' targeting the Whittaker family, urging the public to provide information about gifts and money given to two men, Eric Carroll and Patrick Roark, on the familys behalf

But Carroll said he has only received 'standard platform monetization' from broadcasts. 'I have ensured the Whitaker family will receive their appropriate share of the revenue,' he told the Daily Mail.

Police have urged anyone who donated to the Whittakers through Carroll or Roark to contact them.

News of the police probe prompted a frenzy of online speculation over why the Whittakers still live in squalid conditions when there appeared to be an influx of cash donations, gifts and content money for them.

Once close collaborators, Carroll and Roark got into an ugly social media feud in which each sought to blame the other and show apparent 'proof' of alleged wrongdoing to their followers.

'The donation money that come in through YouTube. Eric has control over YouTube, and I don't' Roark told the Daily Mail.

'Eric is the one that got paid for that, I didn't. I just have one platform, and that's my personal Facebook.'

Cops have refused to release any records on the case, citing their 'ongoing investigation'. Corporal J.W. Gilkeson, the lead officer on the case, told the Daily Mail no charges have been filed but the investigation is still active.

But speaking from the family's dilapidated dwelling in Odd, angry Larry Whittaker, 69, accused Roark and Carroll of taking off with their money.

He branded Roark  who lives less than a minute from the Whittakers  a 'lying f*****' and suggested he and Carroll had 'a lot of money' from his family.

Angry Larry Whittaker, 69, accused Carroll and Roark, who have been documenting the Whittakers lives on YouTube, of taking off with cash and donations that were meant for the family

Speaking to the Daily Mail from his Odd home, Roark claimed his collaborator Carroll was responsible for most of the social media platforms that monetized content and drew in donations for the Whittakers

Asked what he believes happened to the Whittakers' money, Larry replied: 'Eric got it!'

Pressed on how much, he added: 'I've got no idea, there was a lot of money, but no idea.

'Far as I know, Eric got it and took off then, that's all I know.

'Patrick got some of our money, I don't know how much.'

Roark and Carroll's social media content of the family began in June with the creation of 'official' Whittaker Family Facebook, YouTube, X, TikTok and Instagram profiles.

In a June 20 Facebook post, Roark said he had started a new Whittaker Family YouTube channel, 'where I will be posting daily videos and updates' and promised followers they will see the family's lives 'drastically improved'.

Roark and Carroll soon asked for cash donations and supplies to 'support' the Whittakers' living expenses and ultimately fund the building of a new home by the Amish community.

On June 24, the pair told followers to send checks to Roark's home in Odd and to message them about 'sizes and ideas' for clothes and gifts for the Whittakers.

Asked what Roark and Carroll were doing about the family's new home, Larry Whittaker replied: 'They didn't do it, they took the goddamn money and left!'

He rebuffed Carroll's claim the Amish were to build them a house, insisting: 'There was no Amish people, that was his friend!'

Larry also claimed Roark recently gave him a Range Rover, but imposed restrictions on who could drive it, so the family returned it.

'I took it back up there to him. Patrick came around told me he bought it and that I couldn't let nobody else drive it.

When the Daily Mail caught up with the family, the porch at their ramshackle home was cluttered with Halloween decorations, ornaments, and discarded items

The family homestead has several rundown vehicles and property, including a trailer and an outhouse

'I'm 69 years old; he's 44 years old, he ain't gonna tell me what to do,' he said.

In a YouTube video introducing themselves, Roark, a divorced dad-of-six, said he had known the Whittakers his 'whole life' after attending the same Head Start child-development scheme as Timmy, one of the Whittaker clan.

He said the pair lost touch when he moved away but later reconnected after he got a 'good deal' on his house in Odd.

Property records show Roark bought the three-bedroom house for $20,000  below asking price  in a private sale last September.

Carroll, a twice-divorced dad of four daughters and two stepchildren, has a background in fathers' rights activism and in July 2021 interviewed assassinated Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk for his Dad Talk Today podcast.

He said he messaged Roark through his GoFundMe for the Whittakers after being inspired by his pastor father and mother supporting 'mentally challenged people' in their community.

The pair insisted they wanted to help the family and were not out to make money from them.

Their content of the Whittakers quickly went viral. The family's first YouTube video on June 27 in which Betty and Larry debunked hurtful misconceptions garnered almost 345,000 views.

Roark denied handling any donations and insisted any merchandise for the Whittakers were delivered to them. He shared photos of gifts and donations that arrived at Roark's home in early October

Larry Whittaker accused Roark of giving the family a flashy 2010 black Range Rover, but with strings attached, so he returned it and it is now parked outside Roark's home

Three days later, footage of the Whittakers grocery shopping at Aldi gained more than 645,000 views, before another video of Ray Whittaker visiting the doctor racked up almost 500,000 views.

Roark and Carroll monetized their content, offering Whittaker fans different subscription tiers on the family's social media pages of up to $9.99 a month.

The family are even on Cameo, an online platform where users can pay for video messages from their favorite celebrities. Individual fans can get a Whittaker greeting for $50 while businesses must pay $400.

Roark and Carroll wasted no time in asking for donations and gifts to 'support' the Whittakers and later fund the building of a new home.

They promised to bring in an accountant to ensure 'the process is transparent and accountable' and said they would put donations in a trust.

Protesting his innocence, Roark took the Daily Mail round his building site of a home, which he bought in a private sale in September 2024 for $20,000, to prove he's not living in the lap of luxury

Roark said he and Carroll had a 'contract' with the Whittakers to split the revenue from their social media content three ways, but did not provide a copy to support his claim.

He accused Carroll of keeping the social media cash for himself and claims he still owes him about $40,000. He said the YouTube channel alone made 'well over $100,000' and that he didn't know if the Whittakers 'have seen any of it'.

He said the Whittakers' share of the cash from his Facebook content was in the 'thousands of dollars' and still in his Venmo account.

Roark showed the Daily Mail his phone and what he claimed was his Venmo account. He said the account had more than $14,000 in it but covered up his transactions and other identifying information.

Asked when he planned to give the Whittakers their money, he said he would send it through lawyers. He claimed he has a lawyer but repeatedly declined to reveal their name when asked.

Roark told the Daily Mail he made money from his Facebook videos of the Whittakers and claimed their share was still in his Venmo account, which he showed had $14,000

He insisted the Whittakers' money had to be 'put in a fund' to avoid compromising their state benefits.

Roark denied handling any monetary donations and insisted all clothes, toiletries and other merchandise for the Whittakers were either picked up or delivered to them by his aunt, Suzan Dickerson, who backed his story.

He said police came with a warrant and took two cell phones. He said he has not been charged and ruled out cooperating with them, adding: 'There's nothing for me to say. If you think you've got something on me, come and arrest me.'

He claims to have bought the black 2010 Range Rover for the Whittakers a few weeks ago, despite unverified claims by internet sleuths that he was actually gifted the car for the family.

Roark insisted he initially put the vehicle's title in Larry's name, but changed it to his name after the Whittakers returned it.

Asked why he bought the Whittakers such a flashy car when the money could have gone toward a house, Roark said: 'It could be given to them if there was a lawyer involved. But I'm not just going to take $10,000 down there and hand it to him.'

Now Roark says he has 'stepped away from doing Whittaker content altogether' and is heading in a new direction to post content of 'cooking skits, playing guitar, and singing a bit'.

In a statement to the Daily Mail Carroll said he welcomed the police investigation and said he has 'proactively reached out to law enforcement and offered full cooperation'.

'The Whittakers are entitled to their share of certain revenue generated from social media content,' he added, saying he has only kept hold of the money until they can work out a way to distribute it.

He said he still needs to see his former colleagues records 'to complete a full accounting'.

But in a lengthy Facebook video rant on October 3, Carroll said he 'begged' for an investigation and insisted he cooperated with police and adult services straight away.

Carroll claimed he had been trying to give the Whittakers' money 'to the authorities since day one'.

He said family members failed to attend a meeting with an attorney to set up the trust for the funds and that if the family told him where to send their money, his attorney could organize it.

He insisted he became involved to 'build a house' for the Whittakers, which he said is 'not happening now'. He slammed 'baseless' online 'conspiracy theories' and insisted the Amish offer to build the Whittakers' home was genuine.
A Coles delivery driver who travelled to Vietnam for a full facelift has found himself at the centre of viral videos, wild accusations and conspiracy theories.

Jason Harrigan's transformation was so remarkable that even his phone's Face ID didn't recognise him.

But when the 57-year-old Gold Coast man began appearing in multiple social media clips from different doctors, all claiming they were responsible for his dramatic new look, people started to question what was really going on.

'Is he being held hostage?' one fan joked.

'What is happening here? I just saw him thanking another doctor and his before photos look different in that video,' asked another.

'Seriously Jason, blink if you need help,' added a third.

After years of feeling unhappy about his appearance, Mr Harrigan came across a surgeon on TikTok who shared before and after videos of patients.

'I remember seeing some work they had done on a German guy and I was amazed. I actually thought it was artificial intelligence because the results were so dramatic,' he told Daily Mail.

Coles delivery driver Jason Harrigan, 57, travelled to Vietnam in August for a full facelift

The 57 year old began appearing in multiple promotional clips from different doctors

'I followed him and watched people's journeys and was shocked with the results, in a good way.

'I sent photos of myself and I think the first words he said were "I can make you look younger".

'As a bit of backstory, I never took a photo with my family for 20 years because I did not like the way I looked.'

After comparing prices in Australia with Vietnam, Mr Harrigan was gobsmacked by the difference.

He said he was quoted $37,000 for a facelift at home when the same procedure was about $1,500 in Vietnam. His forehead lift cost another $1,500 and his upper and lower eyelids were $1,000.

'I still waited a couple of months because I was not sure. Then my partner saw me sitting on the lounge depressed and said "Jason, book your ticket to Vietnam now".'

Within weeks, he had his visa approved and was on a plane.

'Look, do not get me wrong, I was scared going over there by myself,' he admitted.

He said he was quoted $37,000 for a facelift at home when it was about a total of $4,000 in Vietnam

Before he flew to Vietnam he thought the surgeons were using AI on their videos

Less than a day after his seven-hour operation, doctors began filming his results and posting the videos online, catapulting Mr Harrigan into unexpected fame.

As the clips racked up tens of millions of views and thousands of comments, several more Vietnamese surgeons also began uploading videos of Mr Harrigan's results, each claiming credit for the work.

Still swollen and bruised, Mr Harrigan appeared in many videos introducing himself as 'Jason from Australia' before thanking the doctors for his makeover.

Within the videos he claimed the surgery was 'painless', saying the only discomfort came from the tight bandage around his neck.

'How do we know which surgeon did this?' one viewer asked.

'I have seen him with so many different doctors.'

'Something does not add up. I hope this man is okay,' another wrote.

But Mr Harrigan says there is a simple explanation, and despite the chaos online he could not be happier with the results.

The clips racked up tens of millions of views

Not all the doctors sharing their their services were Mr Harrigan's, like this one above

'Four of them were my surgeons,' he explained.

'I had different specialists for different areas of my face.

'But after a while, doctors I did not even know started sharing my photos too, claiming I was their customer.

'The videos have now had about 79million views and I never expected anything like it.

'People started doing parodies of me and I even got stopped in Bunnings asking if I was "Jason from Australia".

'But all that aside, they really they really changed my life.

'I am a very shy person, but now I am ready to take photos with my family again.'
A woman who died at a lavish Thai resort after a drunken night with a German man spent thousands on her appearance and became a poster girl for a cosmetic tourism agency in Vietnam.

Darwin mum Karla Drescher's New Year's resolution for 2025 was to 'set firm boundaries, only engage with people and situations that add value' to her life, and for 'unapologetic self-indulgence', according to her social media.

The 47-year-old is believed to have splashed out thousands over the years on Botox, fillers, skin treatments, and other cosmetic enhancements.

In February, she paid about $10,000 to travel to Vietnam for ceramic crowns with cosmetic tourism agency, Glam Jet.

Her photos and videos were then used on the company's website, where she told future customers that her teeth were her biggest insecurity.

Looking at her new crowns in the dentist's chair, she said: 'They're so beautiful, they don't look fake, they look so natural and the shape is perfect, the colour is perfect, I can't believe that's me.'

About nine months later, she went to Phuket for a solo trip and stayed at the luxury Sawasdee Village Resort where she enjoyed a $700-a-night room and $230 spa packages.

On October 26, she spent the evening partying with tourist Perry Shamiri, 49, at Black Cat's Bar on Kata Beach, eventually taking him back to her room and ordering a bottle of Hendricks Gin, a source told the Daily Mail.

Karla Drescher is pictured before started changing her appearance with costmetic procedures

Karla Drescher is pictured showing off her new teeth in a promo photo on a Vietnamese dental clinic's social media page

The pair wanted to go for a drunken swim at 4am, but staff advised against it and Ms Drescher fell asleep for the last time.

As she slept, Mr Shamiri grabbed a resort-branded notepad from her desk and wrote her a letter, saying: 'Thank you for the most beautiful night of my life. I don't know how to say thank you.

'Now I'm watching you sleep peacefully in front of me. You are the most beautiful woman I ever met. I love you.'

Mr Shamiri was too drunk to recall what time he wrote the letter, according to the source, but police believe Ms Drescher died sometime between 6.30am and 8.30am that morning.

He was woken by cleaners before midday, realised Ms Drescher wasn't breathing and called police, who found him kneeling at the bedside, holding her hands and crying.

The source said he smelled strongly of alcohol the following afternoon, while being interrogated by police.

Ms Drescher may have gone into cardiac arrest following an accidental overdose of anxiety medication and alcohol, but an autopsy will confirm her cause of death.

Lieutenant Phirawat Yodtor from local police said Ms Drescher was lying on her bed and there were no signs of a struggle or evidence of any injury.

Ms Drescher told her friends on New Years Day that she was embarking on a year of self-indugence

Ms Drescher is pictured on the Glam Jet website, a cosmetic tourism agency

Ms Drescher was staying at a $700-a-night hotel in Phuket (pictured)

Prescription medications including antidepressants were located in the room, along with three open cans of alcoholic drinks and two cocktail glasses.

Mr Shamiri provided a negative drug test and was questioned extensively by police, saying Ms Drescher had 'consumed a large amount of alcohol'.

'We had another drink in the room, had sex and went to sleep. Around noon I woke up when cleaning staff knocked on the door,' he said.

'When I went to wake her, she wasn't breathing.'

He was cleared as a suspect and left Thailand in early November.
Where you live could add or take away more than a decade from your life, according to new figures.

The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows Australians face a postcode lottery of longevity, with life expectancy ranging from just 74 years in the Northern Territory to nearly 87 in Sydney's Inner West.

Residents living in inner-west suburbs including Balmain, Leichhardt and Rozelle have an average life expectancy of 86.9 years.

In stark contrast, people living in Greater Darwin and remote regions in the Northern Territory can expect to live just 74.3 years.

The New South Wales Central Coast (86.7 years), Sydney's Parramatta (86.3), and North Sydney and Hornsby (85.7) all rank among the nation's healthiest regions.

The Northern Territory, Coffs Harbour-Grafton in NSW (78.5), and WA's Wheatbelt (78.7) are at the lower end of the scale.

The average life expectancy across Australia is 83.

Life expectancy has improved dramatically for both sexes in the last century, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

The east coast capitals dominate a list of the areas with the highest average life expectancy in Australia, according to fresh data from the ABS

Sydney has dominated a list of the areas with the highest average life expectancy in the nation

Two young girls play in Titjikala, an Aboriginal community 120km south of Alice Springs. In stark contrast, people living in Greater Darwin and remote regions in the Northern Territory can expect to live just 74.3 years

Compared with their counterparts in 1891 to 1900, boys and girls born in 2021 to 2023 can expect to live around 30 years longer.

A study published in The Lancet Public Health found Australia has made progress in reducing socio-economic inequalities in life expectancy since the late 2010s, setting the country apart from many other high-income countries.

Lead author Dr Sergey Timonin from ANU said while the trend is encouraging, women in the most disadvantaged areas still live 4.9 years less, and men 6.6 years less, than those in affluent areas - underscoring the need for ongoing public health efforts to close the gap.

'We found that three major causes of death consistently contribute to life expectancy gaps - lung cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and heart disease,' he said.

'In addition to chronic diseases, external causes such as suicide, road traffic injuries, and substance-related deaths also played a major role in life expectancy differences, particularly among men.'

The study also placed Australia in an international context by comparing life expectancy in socio-economically advantaged and disadvantaged areas with national averages in countries such as Japan, a global leader in longevity, and the United States.

'Female life expectancy in all Australian areas by socio-economic status sits between Japan and the US, while male life expectancy in Australia's five most advantaged areas (comprising around half the population) surpasses Japan's national average,' he said.

'While this may be bad news for Americans, it is good news for Australians. Even in our most disadvantaged areas, life expectancy is higher than the US average for both men and women.'

Australians enjoy one of the highest life expectancies in the world, at 83.2 years in 2023 for males and females at birth combined  ranked 10th behind Switzerland, Japan, Spain and Israel.
A sailor who became an unlikely celebrity after his yacht was marooned on a popular Jersey Shore beach has now mysteriously vanished - just as his dark criminal past came to light.

Lawrence Kaehler, 51, from Deltona, Florida, bought a 32ft Catalina sailboat named Alestorm for his 50th birthday from a seller on Staten Island, New York, in August and set off on a 1,000-mile solo voyage to Cocoa Beach.

But he made it just 48 miles before disaster struck. At about 4am on September 20, while sailing off New Jersey, he encountered raging waters five miles offshore and instead of heading south, veered west, which saw the vessel slam onto the sands of Sea Girt.

Sea Girt is a small, affluent borough on the Jersey Shore known for its quiet beaches and tight-knit community, so Kaehler's unexpected shipwrecking turned him into the talk of the town.

Locals initially rallied behind Kaehler as authorities tried to help him refloat the solar-powered boat, believing a high tide might push it back out to sea.

Officials warned him, however, that maritime law gave him 30 days to remove his vessel from the sand or it would be declared abandoned.

Under New Jerseys maritime and environmental rules, any grounded vessel not removed within those 30 days can be classed as 'abandoned', allowing authorities to issue fines and take possession.

Local resident and dog walker Marilyn Zicha told the Daily Mail that neighbors quickly grew 'very attached to Larry' and he became something of a local celebrity.

Lawrence Kaehler lived on his shipwrecked boat for more than a month along the Sea Girt shoreline in New Jersey

Kaehler had quotes from salvage companies from $5,000 to $20,000. Instead of paying, he hoped high tides would get the boat back on the water

Kaehler had hoped the 32ft Catalina sailboat would give him 'an adventure,' but he did not expect this

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'Larry and I spent lots of time together. We had a lot of laughs. But most of the time was spent trying to come up with a plan to get his boat out,' she said.

Zicha supplied the stranded sailor with wood, a charger and a jacket, while residents Mike and Morfina Schwarz stepped in to cover nearly all of his daily needs as he lived aboard the beached vessel.

'She (Morfina) gave him clothes, bought him shoes. She made dinner every night,' Zicha said, adding that Mike brought him coffee and a bagel each morning and handled his laundry.

'Sometimes they would have him spend the night so he could have a home-cooked meal and a warm shower.

'More and more people showed up,' she added. 'One day a guy came up with just a plastic bag - a huge sub, one beer and a bottle of water. A half hour later, a lady arrived with two paper plates filled with chocolate chip cookies. So many people were coming to his aid.'

Authorities carried out regular wellness checks as locals dug by firelight each night hoping a high tide would free the boat. But even an October nor'easter couldnt budge it.

As of November 15th, the Alestorm has been marooned for 56 days, or nearly two months.

Noreasters routinely hammer the Eastern Seaboard each fall, bringing high winds, huge surf and coastal flooding - often powerful enough to yank stranded vessels back to sea. But in Kaehlers case, the fierce storm didnt move Alestorm an inch.

Kaehler, a Florida flooring business owner, purchased the boat from a private seller in Staten Island back in August

Kaehler had believed he was heading for the nearby Manasquan Inlet but he was instead slammed onto Sea Girt's shore in the dead of night by the rough sea

Resident Marilyn Zicha told the Daily Mail that neighbors had quickly grown 'very attached to Larry' and wanted to help him

The 30 days to remove the vessel has come and gone and Kaehler is seemingly nowhere to be seen. He had vowed not to leave the region until the matter was sorted

Resident Bobby Siliato filmed a timelapse showing the vessel unmoved despite the storms fury.

'It survived the storm,' he told Jersey Shore Hurricane News. 'I have no clue how they're gonna get it off the beach.'

Kaehler told the Asbury Park Press hed been quoted between $5,000 and $20,000 by salvage companies to remove the sailboat.

But the 30-day deadline has now passed. The vessel remains wedged in the sand - and Kaehler, who has a lengthy criminal record, has vanished.

A summons was issued on October 20, NJ.com reported, as the boat is now officially considered 'abandoned.' A daily fine of up to $1,000 can be imposed, though the New Jersey State Police declined to say whether the penalty is being increased each day.

Kaehler has six felony convictions, including second-degree fraud and dealing in stolen property, plus a 2017 charge of false ownership of a pawned item. He also has third-degree felony conviction for selling and possessing cocaine.

Court documents obtained by the Daily Mail show that he has additional faced felony charges, including possession of burglary tools and paraphernalia, though the results are unknown. Records also show that he has been convicted of several misdemeanors.

He told a local reporter he has 'made mistakes' and paid for them. 'I am a man of the past walking in the present stepping into the future,' he said.

Kaehler told NJ.com he planned to remain in the area until the boat issue was resolved and intended to take a train to Maine, where he owns two other boats.

Since becoming stranded on Sea Girt beach, Kaehler's past has come to light. He has eight felony convictions

Sea Girt and Spring Lake Police have been monitoring the situation

Night after night, locals came together, bonding as they tried to get the boat back into the water

On October 8 he told the Asbury Park Press: 'I wanted an adventure. This wasn't what I was looking for, but this is what I got.'

Daily Mail has attempted to contact Kaehler for further comment and reached out to Sea Girt and Spring Lake Police and state police.

Sea Girt Police posted photos of the stricken boat to Facebook on September 20, writing: 'This is not an abandoned boat and we ask that the public stay clear of the vessel while it is beached. This is private property.'

Police Chief Justin Macko said Sea Girt offered to help remove the boat if Kaehler signed a waiver releasing the borough from liability in case it was damaged - but he declined.

'We continue to closely monitor it, especially in inclement weather,' Macko said, adding that the next steps for removing the vessel must proceed through legal channels.
The US military uniform has long been a symbol of unity and discipline, designed to strip away individuality and emphasize the collective mission. Yet in 2025, a new breed of service member is challenging that tradition: the military influencer.

'A lot of people feel that you have to be like GI Joe or like Captain America to join the military - and it's just not the case,' said Austin Von Letkemann, a military influencer and army captain going on 15 years of service.

From TikTok skits to Instagram reels, these men and women are blending service with social media, building massive followings and even generating incomeall while navigating the 'gray area' of Pentagon ethics rules.

Some have been criticized for posting inappropriate or even 'sexualized' content, earning hundreds of thousands of dollars.

One of the more wellknown influencers in this arena is self proclaimed 'Army Psyop' Hayley Lujan  with over a million followers on TikTok.

As of late, Lujan posted a picture in a tight black dresses with soldiers on her arms with blurred out faces, with the caption, 'to freedom and friends and free booze.'

Another more scandalous post shows her in a skimpy Ronald McDonald outfit holding a gun, asking her followers to purchase her outfit with a 'link in her bio.'

There are threads on reddit questioning why she hasn't been disciplined yet over her 'wild posts.'

Some have been criticized for posting inappropriate or even 'sexualized' content, earning hundreds of thousands of dollars

Lujan posted a picture in a tight black dresses with soldiers on her arms with blurred out faces, with the caption, 'to freedom and friends and free booze'

Rylee Roast, a US Air Force Medic, boast over 100,000 followers on Instagram  posting photoshoots with her uniform and also, tight spandex outfits embracing her curves, with hashtags like 'military medic' and 'women in uniform.'

'Women are automatically at a disadvantage in the military because they are just kind of put in boxes and labeled very quickly,' Johnny Vargas, a military influencer told Daily Mail.

But he warns that some are 'pushing the envelope' and that they should 'try to limit what they post to be safe.'

It's not just women though  male service members have also found fame online, often showing off their physiques in tight uniforms or shirtless gym videos that blur the line between fitness inspiration and 'thirst traps.'

People like Christopher Sparks and Dominic Wakeham, a United States Marine Corps veteran  posting shirtless videos with blaring heavy metal music in the background, flexing, even showing off underwear, leaving little to the imagination.

Insiders close to some of these influencers say the Pentagon is not impressed with their social media flaunting. The Defense Department did not respond to the Daily Mail's request for comment.

Wakeham spoke to Daily Mail saying a lot of the negativity is coming from the 'old heads' in the military.

'Do I have haters? I mean, Im sure there are a few out there, but theres never been any with the nuts to say something to my face? Nah? No but all seriousness Im sure there are people out there who dont like what I do within the military with my platform, but I think its always important to remember that an individual who is negatively dealing another individual without knowing them is wrong for judging another person,' Wakeham told Daily Mail.

Vargas describes many influencers he knows as working for an honorable cause  actually helping the military's brand.

He said when he started posting online it began as a 'silly hobby' two years ago.

People like Dominic Wakeham, a United States Marine Corps veteran  post shirtless videos with blaring heavy metal music in the background, flexing, even showing off underwear, leaving little to the imagination

Rylee Roast, a US Air Force Medic, boast over 100,000 followers on Instagram

Roast posts photoshoots with her uniform and also, tight spandex outfits embracing her curves, with hashtags like 'military medic' and 'women in uniform'

Roast posts a photo on instagram, captioning it 'Another San Diego Photo Dump'

'I did a skit and people started watching. Then I started talking about veterans, service members and families' benefits and it just exploded,' Vargas said.

Now he's working with scores of non-profit organizations, as well as companies where he does lucrative consulting work and brand deals.

'It's been a huge financial and professional blessing to me and my family,' Vargas added.

A junior enlisted service member might take home the equivalent of $35,000$60,000 per year, factoring in things like allowances and benefits  even though their base pay is much lower. An influencer with over 500,000 followers could make $5,000 to $10,000 per post if they attain things like sponsorships or brand deals.

'They pay more than what the military pays me as a senior enlisted married soldier,' Vargas told Daily Mail.

Some influencers we spoke with tell the Daily Mail they make up to half a million a year.

When asked what they think of the title 'influencer', every service member Daily Mail spoke with expressed distaste.

'It's kind of a cuss word,' Vargas said. 'It gives us a nasty tone.' He prefers to think of himself as more of an educator about what life is like in the military.

Army Captain Austin Von Letkemann, coming up on 15-years of service, who says he's raked in nearly 120million views on Instagram in the last 30 days alone, agrees.

'I hate that term. I prefer the term content creator,' he said, conceding that there are people in the military who look down on this side-hustle.

'They're trying to assert that we were chasing clout, chasing fame, chasing monetary gain, whatever it is,' he remarked.

Letkemann has leveraged his TikTok presence to educate both service members and civilians.

He began posting short, comedic videos, but quickly realized the platform's power for informing the public about military life, benefits and careers.

'I think people relate to my videos. It's the empathy factor,' Letkemann told Daily Mail.

Letkemann is a part of the army's nowpaused 'Creative Reserve' pilot program, which recruited military influencers to help with marketing and publicity. It's a division he was hoping to head.

Lujan posted in October in a Ronald McDonald sexy outfit holding a gun, asking her followers to purchase her outfit with a 'link in her bio'. She tagged the official McDonald's Instagram handle in the post

Dominic Wakeham leaves very little to the imagination as he strips off beside his car

While some inform, others have been criticized for posting inappropriate or even 'sexualized' content, earning hundreds of thousands of dollars

From TikTok skits to Instagram reels, these men and women are blending service with social media, building massive followings and even generating incomeall while navigating the 'gray area' of ethics rules of the Pentagon

For Vargas, the opportunity to reach service members directly is unparalleled. 'I've been able to inform service members and their families faster than the DOD does sometimes,' he says. 'That's worth something.'

'We had a number of content creators. Believe there were eight or nine of us. They flew us out to DC, and we kind of just covered the events. When they crunched the numbers, they were saying that we had provided advertising value in the realm of millions of dollars. That's an overwhelming success,' he said.

Letkeman added that the program also hoped to help boost lower recruitment numbers. Something he has already seen happen as a result of his videos.

He said he receives countless messages from people telling him that they 'chose to join the military based off of the videos.'

'That's why I joined the creative reserve program, because I know how much good I can do,' Letkeman added.

The program was paused due to legal issues over soldiers making financial profit off their videos  an issue still not revisited.

Matthew Fitzgerald, a former Army lawyer who has written extensively on military ethics, warns that the rules are clear.

'In simple terms, the DOD's Joint Ethics Regulation now expressly prohibits monetizing one's name, image and likeness pertaining to status as a servicemember. Some have called this a 'gray area,' but I think the rules, and the intent behind them, are very clear,' Fitzgerald said.

The legal expert believes there might be confusion because many have 'violated the rules in plain sight and without any apparent punishment.'

In the end, monetization remains the most contentious point  as questions remain on how much profit is acceptable without crossing ethical lines.

Fitzgerald emphasizes that the rules are explicit: service members cannot profit from their military status. But Vargas, Austin and other contentcreators like them argue that partnerships, consulting and educational content allow them to supplement their military careersand in some cases, plan for postservice life.

'This social media thing I do now, it's a fullblown business and now it's my transition plan as I medically retire from the military,' Vargas said.

A Pentagon employee and former Air Force veteran who asked to remain anonymous offered a balanced perspective, saying they see both sides of the coin.

'I think people are hating on military influencers because it's kind of this 'shut up and do your job culture,'' they told Daily Mail.

'However, I think a lot of influencers forget how insignificant they are in the grand scheme of 'the fight.' Influencers have a reputation for not really being team players,' they added.

For Vargas, the opportunity to reach service members directly is unparalleled.

'I've been able to inform service members and their families faster than the DOD does sometimes,' he says.

For Letkemann, the goal is similar: demystifying military life for those considering service, while also creating positive content.

'I want to make as many people happy, and I want to make as many people laugh as humanly possible. And then after I get out, I want to build a business and a brand as big as I can get it. I want to be successful I think we deserve that,' Letkemann said.
Government sources: it's not going to happen

Claims she will do Schoolies this year

Controversial sex worker Bonnie Blue's sensational promise to return to Australia for Schoolies 2025 appears to be nothing more than smoke and mirrors, and legally impossible without a major intervention.

Government sources have advised Daily Mail that it is virtually 'impossible' for Blue, 26, to return Down Under after she was deported last year for planning to film with 'barely legal boys' on the Gold Coast.

The mandatory ban is set to keep her out of Australia until at least late 2026 because when a visa is cancelled, the banned individual faces an automatic three-year exclusion period.

To return to Australia earlier, Blue - whose real name is Tia Bellenger - would need to apply for a waiver, a process that is rarely successful and requires compelling and exceptional circumstances that she is unlikely to muster for a sex tour.

Despite this, the British national recently boasted to A Current Affair that she had 'good lawyers' and would be 'doing Schoolies this year,' teasing parents that her grand return would cause 'the biggest uproar' yet.

But Home Affairs insiders say any chance of Blue turning up on the Gold Coast - the spot most traditionally associated with Schoolies - is pure fantasy.

Australian adult star Annie Knight, 28, a former friend and collaborator of Blue, has blown the whistle on what Blue is allegedly doing instead.

Bonnie Blue (pictured) told A Current Affair that she planned to come to Australia this year

Blue is pictured on the Gold Coast before her visa was sensationally torn up last year

White recently claimed Bonnie is in Bali, creating content to pretend she's in Australia during Schoolies Week.

'Her visa is cancelled. She can't come to Australia, she doesn't have a lawyer who can change Australian laws,' she told News Corp.

'I know with 100 per cent certainty she's in Bali right now getting content to post in three weeks' time.'

During an interview with 60 Minutes host Ali Langdon recently, Blue coyly hinted she could be back in Australia in a matter of weeks.

'I don't want to give too much away, but let's just say I've got good lawyers and I will be doing Schoolies this year,' she said.

Shocked, Langdon replied: 'I cannot believe the Australian Government is allowing you back into the country.'

'A good lawyer gets you a very long way, maybe even Down Under,' Blue teased.

But Blue did not specify she was doing Schoolies in Australia. She did, however, agree that any possible return to Australia would cause controversy - especially for parents of freshly 18-year-old sons.

'I don't want to give too much away, but let's just say I've got good lawyers and I will be doing Schoolies this year,' Blue told 60 Minutes host Ali Langdon in an episode aired on Monday

'I think it's going to frustrate a lot of parents. So I am very excited for Schoolies. I think this is going to cause the biggest uproar this year,' she said.

Bonnie did not reveal what steps she was taking to win back her Australian visa, but claimed there was 'a lot of work' that goes on behind the scenes.

The Department of Home Affairs refused to comment on Blue's individual case when contacted by Daily Mail.

Blue was banned from Australia last year over her smutty Schoolies plans after a Change.org petition was signed by tens of thousands of furious Aussies.

Petition starter Bambi C wrote that 'Bonnie finds [Schoolies] the perfect opportunity to find young boys to prey on and record sexual content to sell'.

'This is her sole working job whilst living in Australia from the UK. How is she contributing to our society?' Bambi asked.

Bonnie Blue (pictured) was banned from returning to Australia for three years, after her visa was revoked

The Government revoked Bonnie Blue's visa in 2024, following widespread backlash (pictured, Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke)

Child safety expert Kristi McVee also vehemently opposed Blue's plans saying: 'If this was a male [OnlyFans] creator targeting 'barely legal' young women, we would be up in arms, they would be called paedophiles.'

'They're just jealous, like the hate is coming from middle-aged women that don't understand,' Blue said to Daily Mail at the time.

Home Affairs minister Tony Burke said: 'The Australian visa system has rules. If you don't intend to obey those rules, don't apply.'

Daily Mail contacted Bonnie Blue for comment.
This is the heart-stopping moment a base jumper slammed into a cliff face and spiralled out of control  coming within seconds of death before his parachute miraculously deployed.

Footage shows 36-year-old Kirill Blukher leaping from a towering cliff in Brazil in his wingsuit before veering too close to the rock face and being knocked unconscious.

'I realised mid-exit I might have problems - but it was already the point of no return,' he told the Daily Mail.

Kirill's feet clip the side at high speed, sending him spinning at 150kmh before his head smashes into the rock and his limp body plummets hundreds of feet toward the ground.

Amazingly, his parachute opens just seconds from impact - jarred loose from its damaged container by the collision.

The daredevil is then seen slumped in his harness, dangling helplessly in mid-air as the person filming says, 'He's dead.'

Unable to steer, Kirill somehow landed in the only flat area amid a landscape of sheer cliffs.

This is the heart-stopping moment a base jumper slammed into a cliff face and spiralled out of control  coming within seconds of death before his parachute miraculously deployed

Footage shows 36-year-old Kirill Blukher leaping from a towering cliff in Brazil in his wingsuit before veering too close to the rock face and being knocked unconscious. Kirill's feet clip the side at high speed, sending him spinning at 150mph before his head smashes into the rock and his limp body plummets hundreds of feet toward the ground

Amazingly, his parachute opens just seconds from impact - jarred loose from its damaged container by the collision

The daredevil is then seen slumped in his harness, dangling helplessly in mid-air as the person filming says, 'He's dead

A rescue helicopter was unable to reach the site, forcing his girlfriend and five bystanders he'd met that day to carry him down the mountain for six gruelling hours  with one of them persisting despite severe cramps. Pictured: Kirill and his girlfriend Daniela

Rescuers raced to reach him, expecting to recover a body, but instead found him bleeding, battered  yet alive  lying in a bush on the mountainside.

He suffered multiple severe injuries, including a fractured eye socket, broken nose, brain contusion, fractured shoulder blade, broken ribs, a bruised lung, and extensive tissue damage.

A rescue helicopter was unable to reach the site, forcing his girlfriend and five bystanders he'd met that day to carry him down the mountain for six gruelling hours  with one of them persisting despite severe cramps.

Kirill says their quick thinking and selflessness is the only reason he's alive today.

'That's the part I'm most grateful for,' he said. 'Daniela, of course - but the others had met me once in their lives. If I can thank anything, it's those people.'

He later revealed the devastating toll of the incident, saying he was left with double vision, slow, foggy thinking, and had lost most of his old memories.

Kirill, who has completed roughly 600 base jumps, says the crash came down to a small misjudgment - and a soft take-off point that left him without enough speed.

'I was choosing between two exits: one crazily steep rock I hate, or a soft termite mound I also hate,' he said.

Rescuers raced to reach him, expecting to recover a body, but instead found him bleeding, battered  yet alive  lying in a bush on the mountainside

He suffered multiple severe injuries, including a fractured eye socket, broken nose, brain contusion, fractured shoulder blade, broken ribs, a bruised lung, and extensive tissue damage

This image shows Kirill's fractured eye socket

He later revealed the devastating toll of the incident, saying he was left with double vision, slow, foggy thinking, and had lost most of his old memories

Pictured: Kirill just moments before his accident. Kirill says he remembers nothing of the first 24 hours after the fall

'Because it was mushy, I didn't push hard enough and left a little head-high - physics flips you head-low after that. Then my toes clipped the rock and I hit it with my head.'

He also revealed he had broken a long-standing rule minutes earlier after wasps forced him to walk away from the cliff edge.

'I promised myself if I ever walk away from an exit I won't come back the same attempt. This was the first time I broke that rule.'

Kirill says he remembers nothing of the first 24 hours after the fall.

'All summer was tough - double vision, headaches, very slow thinking. Doctors rebuilt the orbital floor behind my right eye with a titanium piece,' he said.

'It's much better now than it was, but some memories just aren't coming back.'

Despite the near-fatal crash, Blukher insists he won't give up the sport that almost killed him. 'Of course I'll keep jumping,' he said.

'My background is financial risk management - you minimise risk but plan for stress scenarios.

'In BASE, the stress scenario is you die. I had mine; I'm happy the price was this small.'

Despite the near-fatal crash, Blukher insists he won't give up the sport that almost killed him. 'Of course I'll keep jumping,' he said. Pictured: Kirill's injured leg

Surgeons told Kirill it was a 'miracle' that he survived. Now back home in Switzerland, he's still healing - slower, foggier, but alive

When he first woke up in hospital, Kirill says even the surgeons couldn't believe he had survived.

'The Brazilian doctors were all very excited to see me because it made it to TV there,' he said.

'The main doctor who operated on me said it was a bit of a miracle - he was very proud of the surgery and even gave me a gift.'

But Kirill rejects any suggestion that fate was at play.

'I don't believe in karma or fate,' he said. 'If I can thank anything, it's the people who carried me down. Without them, I simply wouldn't be here.'

Now back home in Switzerland, he's still healing - slower, foggier, but alive.

'When I woke up in hospital I was very surprised I was alive - and very happy,' he said.

'Was I surprised it happened? Of course not. Was I happy that I paid such a small price? Yes.'
A dad who died by suicide on the day he was set to be jailed for leaving his toddler to die in a hot car was believed to be having an affair with the woman next door, neighbors claimed to police.

Christopher Scholtes was found dead about 5.20am on November 5 at the $1 million home in Phoenix he shared with his wife Dr Erika Scholtes.

Hours later, he was supposed to begin a 20 to 30-year prison sentence for the second-degree murder of his daughter Parker, two, who died in July 2024.

Scholtes, 38, was 'found deceased in his car, which was parked in the garage', police said. Carbon monoxide poisoning is being investigated as the cause of death.

Erika staunchly defended her husband for the 16 months following Scholtes leaving Parker in 108F heat for three hours, even calling her death 'a mistake'.

But the Daily Mail can reveal neighbors claimed to police that Scholtes did not reciprocate his wife's loyalty.

They said he had a 'special relationship' with Katelyn Schacht, 37, a married sales executive who lived next door, and there was a 'common consensus' in the neighborhood that they were having an affair.

Detailed police incident reports of the investigation into Parker's death seen by the Daily Mail included records of interviews with residents as officers canvassed the neighborhood.

Chris Scholtes (left) killed himself at his family home in Phoenix on November 5. Scholtes's wife Dr Erika Scholtes is seen holding daughter Parker, 2, who died in a hot car in July 2024

Parker had been left to sleep in the family's Acura with its air conditioning turned on. Her father admitted her second-degree murder last month and had been facing 20-30 years without parole when he was found dead

Neighbors claimed Scholtes was having an affair with Katelyn Schacht, 37, (pictured) a married sales executive who lived next door

Their relationship came up when neighbor Michael Kramer told police that Scholtes' three young girls often escaped from the house and wandered the streets.

He said Schacht 'had many stories' about these incidents, but may be unwilling to discuss them with police.

'[Kramer] stated that a common consensus in the neighborhood, although not confirmed, was that Katelyn and Christopher were having an affair, and that Katelyn would not come forward with what information she had due to this,' police wrote.

Another neighbor, Kristine Verdugo, said she did not believe Schacht would come forward to law enforcement due to her close relationship with Scholtes.

A third neighbor, Sarah Godsil, told the officers how neighbors several times formed 'search parties' when Scholtes' daughters and pets got out of the house when he was sleeping 'or something else happens'.

Godsil told police that Schacht frequently made excuses for Scholtes and would therefore be unlikely to cooperate with police.

'Sarah's concern... is that Chris and Kate have a "special relationship" and she may not be forthcoming with information,' police wrote in their report.

'Sarah said Kate is in a difficult situation herself with her husband. She is not sure if Kate would be willing to share her specific stories.'

Godsil said later that she was not aware of an affair personally but 'some of the moms thought something was going on'.

Scholtes' wife Erika, 37, was an anesthesiologist at the same hospital her daughter was rushed to staunchly defended her husband for the 16 months after Parker died

Schacht (right) with her husband Jon, who were both interviewed by police

Neighbors' police statements suggested Scholtes and Schacht may have struck up a relationship as his children would often walk around the block to get to her home without their father knowing they left.

'Kate would call him and say "hey your kids are here again",' Godsil told police, explaining this dated back to when Schacht lived in the house behind Scholtes.

Godsil detailed how Schacht would tell neighborhood moms 'oh you should send your kids with Chris' and was 'very close with him'.

'Sarah and the other moms said they 'would never, our gut said no'. Kate would tell the other moms they (she and Chris' kids) would have sleepovers all the time,' police wrote.

Schacht is the US sales director at software firm Eventsforce and previously was a sales executive at Hyatt and then Marriot.

She describes herself as an 'out-of-the box thinker, creativity coordinator, and lean-in advocate'.

'If I could describe myself in one word? Passionate. In all that I do, whether it be in my professional or personal life, I take pride knowing that I put my all in it,' her LinkedIn profile read.

Neither Schacht nor Erika Scholtes returned messages from the Daily Mail asking for comment on the affair claims.

Scholtes left Parker napping with the air-conditioning on and the car running outside his then-home during 90F weather

Schacht was interviewed with her husband Jon hours after Parker's death, but did not discuss past incidents of Scholtes' negligent parenting.

She instead explained how Parker's two sisters came to her door after the toddler was found unresponsive in the car.

'Kate said they were upset ("in tears") and they said that Parker wasn't breathing and that Erika was giving her CPR,' police wrote.

'They said they were scared and asked if they could 'hang out' at their house for a little while.

'She said [one of the girls] also told her Parker was not breathing or moving and that "Mommy and daddy are calling 911 and mommy is giving her CPR".'

Schacht gave a similar story to local TV during reports in the days after Parker's death, and has been described as the only neighbor with anything good to say about Scholtes.

'I got a knock on the door and it's a sound that I literally will never forget,' she told KOLD.

'We open the door and we just see tears and fear and... ghost little faces and they run in and say, 'Can we come here, Mommy and Daddy told us to come here, Parker isn't breathing, Mommy is giving her CPR.'

Schacht and her husband have at least two children whom neighbors said regularly went on playdates with Scholtes' daughters

None of Scholtes's neighbors recalled him having a job in the almost five years he lived at the Marana house, and he appeared to be a full-time house-husband.

Erika worked long hours as an anesthesiologist at Banner University Medical Center, the same hospital Parker was taken to.

She was at work while Parker slowly died in the 2023 Acura MDX sitting in the driveway, and discoverer her after arriving home after 4pm.

By that time, Parker had been locked in the car for more than three hours - since 12.53pm, according to surveillance footage.

Despite this, Erika stuck by Scholtes and even petitioned the court, successfully, for bail and for him to be allowed to go on a family holiday to Maui.

She also bought them a stunning $1.025 million four-bedroom, 2,369sqft gaudy Italian villa-style home in Phoenix in April, boasting a huge pool and neo-classical column facade.

But Erika also frequently expressed her frustrations with her husband's drinking, drunk driving, and risky parenting.

'You haven't shown me you can stop putting the girls in danger or not treat me badly,' she told him on March 11 last year in a text exchanged included in police files.

'Even yesterday, you drove home drunk with two minors. You drink to excess every time. You can never have just one. I've been asking for three years to cut back and it's actually gotten worse.'

Despite her husband's extreme negligence killing their toddler, Erika stuck by Scholtes and even petitioned the court, successfully, for bail and for him to be allowed to go on a family holiday to Maui

Schacht met her husband at university (pictured in their first photo together) and have been together ever since

Scholtes promised to 'find relief and happiness elsewhere' but Erika countered that the last time he did that he merely replaced booze with cocaine.

'At least this one is legal, right?' he replied.

'I'm a piece of sh*t addict and I need to get addicted to healthy things like running again.'

But just ten days later she raged at him for allegedly driving 138mph after drinking, with Parker in the car, calling both 'sh***y decisions'.

'You hate me,' he replied. 'And she was sleeping, it's fine.'

Erika referenced these frustrations in a text exchange with her husband on her way to the hospital the day Parker died.

'I told you to stop leaving them in the car. How many times have I told you,' she wrote.

Scholtes replied: 'Babe I'm sorry! Oh my go[d]! I can't believe this.'

Erika then broke the bad news: 'We've lost her. She was perfect.'

'Babe!!! Our family How could I do this? Detectives are coming for me. I'm going to prison,' Scholtes wrote back.

Scholtes is pictured with Parker on the day she was born

Police outside the house in Marana, north of Tucson, Arizona, as they investigated the scene. Parker was left in the blue Acura SUV behind the police tape

Scholtes then told Erika he was on his way to the hospital, asking 'Anything? Please god', but his wife told him: 'No she was pronounced.'

'I killed our baby. This can' t be real,' Scholtes wrote.

However, when asked by police Erika 'denied any previous issues of this nature or other critical incidents involving the kids and her husband'.

Erika's mother, Cynthia King, told police in an interview in January that her daughter's image of a 'perfect family' was a fantasy.

'She is dealing with [Parker's death] alone. And it is hard for her to imagine her family that she thought she had, although it wasn't what she was on the outside,' police wrote that she told them.

'There was a lot of s**t happening behind closed doors, but she wanted that image of the perfect family. And it was just an image.

'There were probably times of happiness, but it wasn't what everybody saw. So, she has to deal with that first.'

Their other two children, then aged nine and five, told police their father regularly left all three siblings alone in the car.

The Scholtes family pictured together in happier times. Dr Erika Scholtes must now contend with the loss of her husband and her youngest daughter

Scholtes was found dead about 5.20am on Wednesday in his car in the garage (left) of the $1 million home in Phoenix

Scholtes left Parker napping with the air-conditioning on, but he lost track of time while he played on his PlayStation, drank booze and watched adult videos, and the vehicle shut off.

The Pima County Medical Examiner said the temperature inside the car was 108.9F when first responders arrived and confirmed Parker died of heat exposure.

Their other kids told police Scholtes 'got distracted by playing his game and putting his food away', according to the criminal complaint.

A PlayStation and other electronics were taken away as evidence.

Prosecutors wrote in court documents that Scholtes also searched the internet for men's clothing at Nordstrom and for pornography from 2.02pm to 2.30pm.

The killer dad rejected a plea deal in March that would have seen him serve up to 10 years behind bars.

Just six months later, he had no choice but to accept a far worse deal to plead guilty to second-degree murder and be jailed for 20 to 30 years without parole.

But he was allowed to stay out on bail until November 5, when he would be taken into custody, and used that time to plan his suicide.
A Florida biologist has filed a wrongful termination lawsuit after she was fired for an Instagram post about Charlie Kirk's assassination.

Brittney Brown was let go on September 15 after a TikTok account outed her for reposting a social media comment about the conservative star's murder, according to the lawsuit viewed by the Daily Mail.

Five days earlier, on the same day as Kirk's death, Brown shared a statement about the assassination from the account @awhalefact, which the lawsuit describes as 'a parody/satirical account that pretends to speak on behalf of a whale.'

The post said: 'The whales are deeply saddened to learn of the shooting of Charlie Kirk, haha just kidding, they care exactly as much as Charlie Kirk cared about children being shot in their classrooms, which is to say, not at all.'

On September 14, the Libs of TikTok account shared a screenshot of Brown's post next to a screenshot of her LinkedIn profile and suggested she be fired from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the court document showed.

Hours later, FWC said it was aware of Brown's activity and 'did not condone nor tolerate this type of hateful sentiment.'

'We're actively working towards a swift and immediate resolution regarding this individual's employment,' the company's post on X read.

Biologist Brittney Brown was fired from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission over a post about Charlie Kirk's assassination

Kirk was shot and killed while speaking at an event on the campus of Utah Valley University on September 10

The next day, Brown said that she was called into the office and told to choose between resignation and termination, according to the lawsuit.

After asking to speak with an attorney, Brown said the Regional Director of the FWC came to her house and delivered a termination letter.

Her lawsuit argues that FWC executive director Roger Young made the decision to fire her after consulting with senior officials in the Governor Ron DeSantis administration, and her boss, Melissa Tucker, carried out the termination.

Shortly after she received the letter, the lawsuit stated that Libs of TikTok posted that Brown had been fired.

FWC put out the following statement: 'This weekend, we were made aware of a deeply troubling incident involving an FWC employee who shared a social media post that made light of the assassination of Mr Kirk.

'The comments and actions of this individual are not in line with the FWC, our values, or our mission. We have a zero-tolerance policy towards the promotion of violence and hate, and we will not stand for such behavior.

'Upon learning of the social media post, FWC leadership took swift action, terminating the individual. We expect all our employees to conduct themselves with the utmost professionalism and always keep the public's trust in mind.'

Brown's lawsuit argues that her First Amendment rights were violated because she posted on a private account and was on vacation and out of state at the time she posted.

Libs of TikTok outed Brown on X, sharing a screenshot of a repost the biologist made from the account @awhalefact

FWC claimed that have a 'zero-tolerance policy towards promotion of violence and hate,' but Brown's lawyers argue she was not doing either of those things

'[Brown's] political statement does not condone Mr Kirk's killing; nor does it call for further violence. The post did not threaten anyone but merely stated a political opinion about a political figure,' the court filing said.

'The repost was not shared during work hours and did not involve any state property, money, or resources. Instead, the repost was shared from Brown's personal phone while she was on vacation out of state.'

Her lawsuit seeks to have her reinstated as a biologist with FWC, where she had worked for around seven years, and asks for her to be paid damages in an amount to be determined at trial.

On Monday, her lawyers asked US District Judge Mark Walker to reinstate her immediately while the lawsuit is under way, reported FOX 13.

Brown's attorney Gary Edinger said: 'It's a political statement on a matter that everyone in America is still talking about. You can't invoke that bogeyman as a cover for content-based, viewpoint-based discrimination.'

Lawyers representing the state and FWC defended their decision to fire Brown.

'The First Amendment does not shield public employees from the consequences of speech that undermines the effectiveness, credibility or public trust on which their agencies depend,' the attorney said.

'FWCs interest in maintaining credibility and neutrality far outweighs any minimal expressive value.'

Brown's lawsuit claims her First Amendment rights were violated and she is seeking to be reinstated to her role

The judge did not rule on the reinstatement but said during the hearing: 'You dont get to fire somebody just because the public is yapping at you.'

Walker also added: 'Workers dont have an absolute right to employment.'

In a statement to the Daily Mail, Edinger said: 'We were taking a chance on a preliminary injunction (which is considered truly extraordinary relief) in the hope of getting Ms Brown back to work immediately.'

He added: 'The judge may defer or deny injunctive relief until the factual record is better developed.

'Fortunately, we are on an extremely fast-tracked discovery and summary judgment schedule. So even if the preliminary injunction sought on Monday is denied, we can expect a favorable final decision early next year.'

Kirk was shot in the neck while speaking at a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University. Tyler Robinson, 22, who has been charged with his murder, is expected to appear in court in January.

The Daily Mail contacted FWC and their lawyers for comment.
A 102-year-old World War Two veteran has described the conflict as a total waste of flipping time' - after one of her fellow heroes said their sacrifices were not 'worth it' and the country has 'definitely gone to the dogs'.

Robbie Hall, 102, christened as Queenie, served in Bomber Command during the Second World War - with fiance Frank Vincent dying when his Royal Lancaster bomber went down in Germany in 1944.

Remembrance commemorations have been held this week, marking 80 years since the end of the Second War and also honouring casualties of other battles.

But Mrs Hall, who attended a Downing Street event earlier this month, has shared with the Daily Mail her despair at ongoing battles - including in Ukraine and Gaza.

A fellow veteran, 100-year-old D-Day hero Alec Penstone, earlier this month spoke about Britain having gone 'to wrack and ruin'.

And a new poll suggested eight in 10 Britons feel the nation is divided.

Queenie now feels despair at continuing conflicts and how political leaders today have not 'learnt any lessons' from the First and Second World Wars.

When recalling the Second World War this week, she told the Daily Mail: 'All I can say is, the war in my opinion was a total waste of flipping time.'

Robbie Hall, 102, christened as Queenie, served in Bomber Command during World War Two

She has pad visits to European cemeteries with the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans

Nodding to the continuing warfare in Ukraine and in Gaza, she added: 'We've got two big conflicts going on - it's getting to be a very dangerous world.

'I'm 102, I'll be 103 in a few months' time - I've got through five monarchies - I just don't understand why someone always wants what someone else has got.

'And these are young men giving their lives - it's such a waste.

'My father was in the First World War, at the Somme. He was lucky to survive.

'My sister's husband was captured by the Japanese. He came back a broken man.'

She was recently welcomed at 10 Downing Street by the Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, at an event on November 3, and described him as 'nice'.

She said: 'I don't agree with politics at the moment - I don't want to argue about politics.

'I found him a very nice man - whether or not I agree with his politics is neither here nor there.'

WWII veteran Queenie Hall has described the war as 'a total waste of flipping time'

Mrs Hall said they spent about 10 to 15 minutes chatting, with Sir Keir pointing out two chairs on which Sir Winston Churchill and King George VI would sit.

That was, she said, a surprising example of the monarch visiting the Prime Minister for their weekly chat rather than the other way around.

Yet she was dubious about the furniture itself, saying: 'He showed us Winston Churchill's chair. Well, I didn't think much of that - I wouldn't give it house room.'

In September she went on a visit to the Netherlands, as part of her regular trips supporting the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans.

Her taxi driver offered up that, since they were close to the border, he could happily take her to see Frank's grave for the first time - and she was surprised and moved to see it mentioned her name 'Queenie'.

The tombstone in Rheinberg War Cemetery, in north-western Germany, reads: 'To our darling Frank. Treasured memories. Mum, Dad, Sister, and Queenie.'

She described the moment of finally seeing his resting place as 'like receiving a gift I have waited 81 years to receive'.

Queenie still lives in Stowmarket in Suffolk, just a few miles from where she was born and brought up.

Queenie still lives in Stowmarket in Suffolk, just a few miles from where she was brought up

She had lied about her age to join the WAAF despite being just 17 - and went on to help plan the Bomber Command raids on Germany headed by Arthur 'Bomber' Harris.

Her recent overseas visit to the Netherlands - and then across the border to the German cemetery - was to join fellow veterans at the Airborne Wandeltocht, a 78th annual march commemorating those lost in the Battle of Arnhem.

Her taxi trip to Rheinberg came courtesy of an offer by driver Dean Euesden, who told her: 'I'll do it.'

Queenie told the Daily Mail: 'I have to say, I broke down when I saw my name - I didn't realise it was there.

'All these young men were buried there - they were in their prime.

'It was a wonderful experience, to be there, but also traumatic for me.'

She had been part of the Women's Auxiliary Air Force in the 1940s, while her fiance trained to be a Flight Sergeant - with the pair getting engaged when both were 18.

But he died aged 21 just two months before their planned wedding, when his aircraft blew up during his 23rd mission, in August 1944, killing him and six crew members.

Queenie Hall (left) and Dorothea Barron stand in front of Spitfire ahead of taking a flight organised by the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans to mark their 100th birthdays in 2024

She said of her five years with Bomber Command: 'Some of my work was secret. Everyone was patriotic in those days - fighting for your country, fighting for what you considered was right.'

And she drew parallels with Hamas's October 7 2023 terror attacks on Israel and the invasion of Ukraine by Vladimir Putin's Russia in February 2022.

Queenie said: 'War is always somebody wanting what someone else has got, something that doesn't belong to them.

'It's like children, really - taking someone else's teddy. And yet young men are sacrificed, putting their lives on the line, but for what?

'It just goes on and on - we've got those two conflicts going on now. It's become a very, very dangerous world.

'If only leaders would think about what people went through in the two world wars - we need a real change of mindset.

'The people in Ukraine should be able to enjoy their freedom, but why should Russia claim it? It's not theirs.

'As for Gaza - we know jolly well Israelis will fight for their country, they'll fight for the last man and why not?

'The people who captured Israelis [on October 7 2023] are the cause of the war. And for what? I don't know.'

Ongoing conflicts have also been condemned by fellow veteran Paul Terry, 100, originally from Wolverhampton and now living in Pevensey Bay, near Eastbourne in East Sussex.

He has been a carer for his 87-year-old wife Dorothy, who has Alzheimer's, for the past nine years.

He was one of three brothers who served in the Kings Royal Rifle Corps, landed in Normandy after D-Day and moved through France, Belgium and the Netherlands including serving at the Battle of Arnhem.

After being medically discharged after a mortar shell injured, he later rejoined the military as a reserve and took part at Queen Elizabeth II's coronation in 1953.

He participated in remembrance events this week having only just been discharged after two weeks in hospital.

Mr Terry told of having misjudged the pedals on the BMV Series 3 convertible he still proudly drives, colliding with a barrier actually coming out of Eastbourne General Hospital's car park after visiting his wife on a ward.

He was full of praise for those treating him, saying: 'People go on about foreigners in hospitals - I couldn't fault them in any way.

Ongoing conflicts have also been condemned by fellow veteran Paul Terry, 100, originally from Wolverhampton and now living in Pevensey Bay, near Eastbourne in East Sussex

Paul Terry was one of three brothers who served in the Kings Royal Rifle Corps, landed in Normandy after D-Day and moved through France, Belgium and the Netherlands

'It was the most loving care I could hope for. If all people were like they are in hospitals, we wouldn't have all this hatred and racism you see elsewhere.'

But he did express pessimism for the state of the world, amid such battles as those in Ukraine and in the Middle East.

Mr Terry said: 'I don't like to generalise but it seems rather frightening especially for youngsters these days - but I wouldn't them to go through the wars we did.

'You've got these idiots that think they're going to take over the world - Putin.

'He's going to die some time, isn't he? The sooner, the better. But whatever he's got, he can't take it with him - so what's the point of all this?'

Meanwhile, Mr Terry has carers coming in to support him and his wife, but insisted: 'I've never liked sitting about. I'm always on the move. If I can do it, I will do it.'

The reflections from Ms Hall and Mr Terry, both allied with the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, come after fellow veteran, 100-year-old D-Day hero Alec Penstone, spoke about Britain having gone 'to wrack and ruin'.

He stunned ITV's Good Morning Britain presenters Susanna Reid and Adil Ray by saying on air that the sacrifice of the lost men of his generation 'wasn't worth' what the country has become.

Alec Penstone, 100, pictured with his medals, said the UK has gone to 'wrack and ruin'

Alec, pictured aged 20 in 1945, said he was anguished by what he sees as Britain's decline

Alec is pictured with his late wife Gladys on their 70th wedding anniversary in 2015

The grandfather of two added: 'What we fought for was our freedom, but now it's a darn sight worse than when I fought for it.'

And he followed up by telling the Daily Mail: 'It was my own personal opinion but evidently it touched a chord with very many people. My daughter has had so many messages from all over the world.

'I don't know what the hell we fought for and [why we] lost so many wonderful men. The country has gone to wrack and ruins.

'There are too many people with their fingers in the till. Faith in our country was the best thing [when he was young].

'But nowadays there's too many people that just want their own little corner and bugger everybody else.'

Rather than his anguish being fuelled by any kind of hostility, Mr Penstone stressed: 'I'm not against foreigners coming into the country provided they behave themselves.'

His fears for the state of the country echo a study this month finding eight in 10 Britons feel the nation is divided  up five percentage points from two years ago and 10 per cent since 2020.

The poll, by researchers at King's College London and Ipsos Mori, also showed that half of the public feel Britain's 'culture' is changing too fast, up from a third.

Alec (pictured with Rod Stewart) holds a proud record as the country's oldest poppy seller

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One finding was that nostalgia for Britain's past rose in every single age group, even among 16 to 24-year-olds.

Almost a third of people in that age bracket wanted Britain to return to how it 'used to be', up from 16 per cent in 2020.

Asked of his view of wartime prime minister Winston Churchill and how he thinks today's politicians match up to him, Mr Penstone said: 'I admired him. He was a leader. And he made sure what needed to be done was done.

'There is no comparison whatsoever to the modern leaders. In this world today it is every man for himself. I've got no feelings for any of them.'

Although he is now blind, Alec still lives independently and continues raising money for the Royal British Legion through his selling of poppies.

His beloved wife Gladys died in Marc 2022 aged 96, just months before their 77th wedding anniversary.

After mentioning how her ashes rest on the mantelpiece of his home, Alec told the Mail of his other half: 'She gets onto me at night-time asking, "When are you coming to join me?" I say, "Not yet love. Sorry."'

Revealing the secret to their happy marriage, he adds: 'We always had an agreement we would never go to sleep on an argument. One or both of us would always eat humble pie.'

But he shared his bleaker feelings to the Mail, following on from that GMB interview that attracted such attention.

Mr Penstone said: 'My daughter took me over to London to be interviewed.

'I just cant understand the attitude of British people. We are definitely divided. No pride in the country anymore. That's not the way I was brought up.'

Looking back at past PMs, he said: 'I admired Winston Churhcill. There was no doubt about it, he was a leader - and he made sure what needed to be done was done.

'There is no comparison whatsoever to the modern leaders. In this world today, it is every man for himself.

'I've got no feelings for any of them. I'm just counting the days until I die.

'To me, this country this has definitely gone to the dogs by unsuccessful governments.

'I most fondly remember the people themselves. Im not against foreigners coming into the country, provided they behave themselves.

'There is no leaders at all - they are all our for themselves. I feel I cant do anything about it except by protesting - when I did the interview, I felt I cant do damn all about it.'
Mysterious Albanians, 7,000 in cash and a call from a dead man's phone - Spanish police files have revealed fresh new details in the mystery surrounding a British father who died in Spain following a robbery at his apartment.

Brett Dryden, 35, died at his home in Mojacar on the Costa Almeria after leaving his workplace to meet two people in the afternoon of July 21, 2024.

His body was discovered covered in blood by a friend hours later, with his phone, wallet, and up to 8,000 - 7,000 - in cash missing from the property.

Despite signs of a struggle, Spanish cops informed Mr Dryden's relatives that there was no criminal case to answer, nothing had been stolen and he had died of a pulmonary embolism.

But they were later forced to admit that a robbery had taken place, and a post-mortem found he had died covered in injuries including a large wound to his head and further injuries to his neck, face, arms and leg. It also found internal bleeding in his brain.

The police file, seen by the Daily Mail, now reveals serious questions about the events surrounding Mr Dryden's death, including CCTV capturing a person standing guard as a 'lookout' outside his home before two people fled the scene.

A planned meeting with an Albanian and a mysterious one-second phone call to his mother from Mr Dryden's phone, which was missing from his home and has never been found, only add to his family's concerns.

And despite his phone being tracked to an address at a nearby town in the days after Mr Dryden's death, it does not appear residents of the house were ever contacted by police.

Brett Dryden, 35, died at his home in Mojacar on the Costa Almeria after leaving his workplace to meet two people in the afternoon of July 21, 2024

His body was discovered covered in blood by a friend hours later, with his phone, wallet, and up to 8,000 - 7,000 - in cash missing from the property

Mr Dryden went home on the day of his death to his apartment (pictured) in Mojacar, Almeria, where he was said to be expecting to meet with an Albanian man named Irdi

Brett Dryden last spoke with his family on the morning of his death, at around 10am, in a FaceTime call with his mother, Sandra Adams, and young daughter.

That day, he was working at a club he owned which sells legal marijuana named The Dawg House, not far from his home in Mojacar.

He exchanged messages with a friend named Ashley Povey, who would ultimately find Mr Dryden's body, shortly before 1pm.

Mr Dryden then informed his employee, Yashar Goodarz, that he would be briefly leaving the club. He was captured on CCTV footage placing money inside his wallet and departing at 1:35pm.

According to a statement to police given by Mr Goodarz, Mr Dryden told him: 'I'll be right back'.

At 1:59pm, CCTV footage that covered the area outside Mr Dryden's home, captured someone wearing a cap and face mask appearing outside.

The man, who police say was acting as a 'lookout', walked up and down outside the property for 16 minutes.

Shortly after his arrival at 2pm, a neighbour spotted that Mr Dryden's car was parked outside his property. Around the same time, Mr Goodarz messaged his boss asking where he was.

Mr Dryden was last seen alive at his club The Dawg House (pictured), which sold legal marijuana

At 2:16pm, two people were seen running away from Mr Dryden's house on CCTV footage

One of the people to flee the scene had been caught acting as a 'lookout' (pictured) outside Mr Dryden's home

Meanwhile Mr Dryden was on the phone with Mr Povey, who told police that his friend abruptly hung up on him after saying that people he was waiting for had arrived at his home.

What happened during the next 15 minutes is not known, but at 2:15pm the person loitering outside Mr Dryden's property is seen on CCTV turning and entering an alleyway that led directly to his house.

Just one minute later, he and another person, also wearing a cap and face mask, are seen running away from the scene.

One was carrying a large bag and the other a small bag that appeared to match the one Mr Dryden himself had been carrying on his arrival home.

At 10pm, after being contacted by staff member Mr Goodarz, Mr Povey visited his friend's property. After knocking and messaging Mr Dryden and receiving no response, he entered.

Inside, he found Mr Dryden's dog sitting on the sofa, and his blood-covered body lying on the floor. He then alerted the local police force.

The police file seen by the Daily Mail shows that officers originally claimed there were 'no signs of a struggle' despite chairs being knocked over and bloody footprints all over the floor.

They ruled out a robbery and stated that Mr Dryden had all his personal possessions including his wallet and mobile phone. Friends of Mr Dryden were allowed to cross the potential crime scene twice without protective clothing, and his body was removed within two-and-a-half hours of judicial police being made aware of the incident.

Mr Dryden's family and friends have visited his home town multiple times since his death in a bid to put pressure on local authorities - but the case has now been closed with no arrests

But the force was soon made to backtrack and admit that Mr Dryden had a catalogue of serious injuries at the time of his death and his wallet and regular phone were all missing from the scene.

His mother told the Daily Mail that her son estimated he had around 8,000 - 7,000 - in cash at his home at the time, and this was also nowhere to be found.

Bizarrely, a one-second phone call was made to Mr Dryden's mother from this phone at 11:31pm - an hour and a half after his dead body had been found by Mr Povey.

It can now be revealed that Mr Dryden was scheduled to meet with an Albanian man named Irdi when he left The Dawg House on the day of his death.

According to a friend, Irdi, described as dark-skinned and of average build, had been planning to carry out a business deal at Mr Dryden's home.

The friend added that Irdi had often been seen in the company of a second Albanian man, slightly taller than Irdi's 5ft 6in stature, named Hakim or Hakir. There is no reference in the file to either man having been tracked down and interviewed by police.

Records show police spent considerable time analysing phone data and were able to track Mr Dryden's missing phone to an address on Loma del Soler, in Vera, Almeria, five days after his death.

Officers discovered that a second mobile number had been located at the same address and was in the area of the crime scene between 1:19pm and 2:19pm. This number received a 21-second call from another phone at 2:09pm, which police confirmed was made from the Loma del Soler area.

The phone in the vicinity of the crime scene then stopped being traceable, suggesting it had been switched off.

Police were able to confirm the identity of the owner of the phone, a woman living at the same Loma del Soler address where Mr Dryden's missing phone was later traced.

They found the woman had no criminal record and that she was not the registered user of the device.

At least four adults were living at the address at the time, one of whom had been arrested nine times by police. But the site is understood to be a campsite, meaning others could have been staying in the area at the time.

It does not appear police ever confirmed who the user of the phone was, or spoke to them about their presence in Mojacar on the day of Mr Dryden's death.

Instead, the file states: 'It should be noted that basing an investigation on repeater connections specifically in the area is difficult, since, for example, in the town of Vera, the same repeater provides coverage to the fairgrounds, the Loma El Soler farmhouse, and the town center itself, making it impossible to objectively distinguish locations.'

The case has since been closed with no arrests made.

His mother previously told the Mail she was concerned Spanish authorities were reluctant to investigate because they did not want to impact the local tourism industry.

Ms Adams said: 'All I know is somebody hurt my boy and if it's the last thing I do in my life I will get justice.

'It's terrible to not have any answers all this time later. I try not to imagine what happened because I would just crumble.

'I just want to know what's happened to my boy and then maybe I can move on with my life.'

Spanish Police have been contacted for comment.
Sex offenders, drug traffickers and violent thugs are among 14,000 foreign criminals who have been let off without a conviction because they said sorry for their crimes.

The foreigners were among more than 412,000 offenders who escaped receiving a criminal record over the last three years because they were handed 'community resolution orders' instead of being charged.

The orders - which see criminals apologise for their actions - are meant for low level crimes and were introduced to allow troubled youths and first-time offenders to avoid a criminal record and get their lives back on track.

But figures obtained by the Daily Mail show that the soft-touch orders have been used to deal with serious crimes, with 2,949 sex offenders among those who did not face court because they apologised.

Two rapists were among the thousands of offenders let off, as were foreign child sex offenders.

Hundreds of drug offenders and violent criminals from overseas were also sent on their way with a slap on the wrist.

The figures further highlight the farcical state of Britains justice system, as Labour faces mounting pressure over prisoners mistakenly freed from jail and controversy over the governments early release scheme.

The new data - obtained under Freedom of Information laws from 38 of the UK's police forces - show that sex offenders from Albania, Congo, Iran, the Philippines, Hungary, Poland, Latvia, Romania, India, France, Lithuania, Pakistan, Nepal, Hong Kong, Algeria, Syria, Nigeria and Zimbabwe were all handed the orders and therefore did not face court.

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The five sex offenders from Iran, Philippines, Nepal, Romania and Zimbabwe sexually assaulted teenage girls but were let off without charges, as were flashers from Syria, Algeria and Nigeria.

And a Chinese national was also let off for child cruelty.

Drug offenders from 128 different countries were handed community resolution orders, as were violent criminals from 99 nations.

The figures - and number of offenders from overseas - is likely to be far higher as some forces were unable to provide data or say where the offenders were from.

Not one of Britain's 44 police forces kept a record of how many community resolution orders they were handing to asylum seekers.

Rapists in Derbyshire and Humberside were handed community resolution orders instead of being charged.

The case in Derbyshire involved a boy under the age of 14 raping a girl of a similar age.

In Durham, two sex attackers from the Philippines and Iran were let off with the soft-touch orders.

Across the country, 24 girls under the age of 13 and 13 pre-teen boys were sexually assaulted, only for their attackers to be let off following an apology.

At least 134 sexual assaults of girls aged 13 to 16 were dealt with using community resolution orders.

Nearly 750 people were caught with indecent photos of children but were handed the soft-touch orders, and almost 165 cases of sexual activity with children ended in the offenders being let off too.

At least 175 sexual assaults of adults ended with the attackers being let off following an apology, as well as six perverts caught with the worst form of bestiality porn.

Eighty people escaped charges for child cruelty, as did six kidnappers and people who abducted children.

Community resolution orders were introduced so victims could be involved in the justice process.

The orders are often used when shoplifters are caught in the act, or to punish youths so they do not get a criminal record.

An apology has to be accepted by the victim, and the person who receives the order may have to do some form of community service.

A Derbyshire Police spokesman said of the child rape that was dealt with using a community resolution order: 'This case relates to a reported rape of a girl by a boy  when both were under the age of 14.

'On completion of the investigation, a specialist multi-agency panel judged that the case was appropriate for a community resolution. This was communicated to the victim and their family.

'A series of interventions were held with the boy which included crime, consequences and victim awareness and since the incident the boy has not been a suspect in any further incidents in Derbyshire.'

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A Durham Police spokesman said: 'Community resolution covers a number of disposal options, including Restorative Justice programmes or the victim accepting an apology.

'Each case is looked at on an individual basis and the best interests and welfare of the victim are the centre of that.

'Before using a community resolution, the previous behaviour of the offender, the severity of the offence, along with the wishes of the victim, must be considered to ensure we have done the right thing for the victim.'

Humberside Police declined to comment.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Dr Alison Heydari, from the National Police Chiefs' Council, said: 'Out of Court Resolutions (OoCR) are a highly effective way of delivering justice, supporting community safety and preventing future offending. We know there is a lot of work for policing to do to ensure that OoCR are fully understood by the public and that policing can deliver them in an appropriate and timely way.

'In order for OoCR to be effective, we need a whole system approach that includes our partner agencies and the voluntary sector.

'Community resolutions, conditional cautions and deferred prosecution schemes provide policing with an opportunity to work together and help divert individuals away from criminality, as well as delivering swift justice for victims but delivery must be consistent in order to achieve the benefits we know they can provide.

'We regularly review the use of community resolutions and over the next few months will be updating our guidance to reflect feedback received and a recent published report.'

WORST CRIMES DEALT WITH VIA COMMUNITY RESOLUTION ORDERS Rape: 2 Sexual assault on girl under the age of 13: 24 Sexual assault on boy under the age of 13: 13 Sexual assaults on girls aged over 13: 134 Sexual assaults on boys aged over 13: 39 Sexual activity with a child under 13: 30 Sexual activity with a child under 16: 135 Sexual communication with a child: 4 Possessing indecent photos of children: 743 Sexual assault: 175 Sexual activity without consent: 3 Child cruelty: 80 Kidnapping: 6 Child abduction: 4 Advertisement

The Home Office was contacted for comment.

The figures heap more pressure on Labour over its handling of the justice system.

Earlier this week it emerged that a criminal was on the loose for more than a week after being released from prison in error.

In the latest development in Labours jails farce, the Ministry of Justice confirmed the unnamed inmate was finally detained eight days after being mistakenly let out.

The case was in addition to Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy's admission that three wrongly released prisoners were still at large.

Tory frontbencher Robert Jenrick, who has dubbed the missing prisoners Lammys lags, said it showed Mr Lammy was asleep at the wheel.

Calamity Lammy didnt know his department had lost a prisoner for over a week, the Shadow Justice Secretary said.

Hes asleep at the wheel.

Since Lammy introduced his strongest ever checks three prisoners have been mistakenly released.

Theyre failing and the British people are being put at risk on a nearly daily basis as a result.

It comes after a report from the National Audit Office concluded that Labour's plan to send fewer offenders to prison will increase pressure on the beleaguered Probation Service and could leave the public at greater risk.

Official crime figures showed a spike in offences such as shoplifting and drugs during Labour's first year in power.

Mr Jenrick warned Labour's plan for softer sentences would lead to a 'massive crimewave of more sexual assaults, rapes and violent crime committed in our communities'.
Deep inside the most remote reaches of China's western deserts, far beyond any city or settlement and hidden behind layers of restricted airspace, sits a place that has quietly become the heart of China's most secret military ambitions.

From above, it appears as a gleaming mirage of concrete and metal against an expanse of land, and on the ground, it has been shrouded in secrecy with almost no details spoken by Chinese officials.

What has become clear, however, is that this former salt lake, forbidden slab of land, known as Lop Nur, has evolved into the centre of a vast programme that spans experimental aircraft, space weapons, and the most rapid nuclear expansion on the planet. The work began in the last six months and has seen significant progress.

In the emptiness of Lop Nur, Chinese president Xi Jinping has reportedly built a sprawling network of runways, test tunnels, and hangars that analysts say contain some of the most advanced defence projects Beijing has ever attempted.

The area, in the Xinjiang Autonomous Region, was once synonymous with China's Cold War nuclear tests - now it is compared to America's Area 51, an off-limits zone where machines of the future are tested behind walls of silence.

The first clue that Lop Nur had become something new came from high-resolution satellite images. Analysts noticed a colossal runway stretching for more than three miles across the desert, one of the longest in the world.

The airstrip stood alone with only a handful of buildings beside it, and there was no sign of ordinary flight activity.

Its purpose was unclear until late November last year, when Planet Labs captured an image that revealed a curious sight at the eastern end of the runway.

A long white object, roughly 32 feet in length, could be seen resting near several smaller shapes believed to be vehicles or support equipment.

The image, later shared by The War Zone, confirmed that the complex had expanded significantly, including the addition of a large new hangar and a row of vehicles near the apron.

In Planet Lab's satellite imagery, significant construction has been spotted at Lop Nur. The former salt lake has now evolved into the centre of a vast nuclear programme

A mysterious white object was seen on one of the runways, leaving experts to compare it to the X-37B, a secretive robotic space shuttle operated by the US Space Force

The runway constructed at Lop Nur is one of the most expansive in the world at three miles long

Although the white object remains a mystery, analysts have speculated that it may be part of China's reusable spaceplane programme, possibly a drone or a test article designed for high altitude manoeuvres.

Its size drew comparisons to the United States X-37B, the secretive robotic space shuttle operated by the US Space Force.

The X-37B is launched into orbit on a rocket, uses its own systems to manoeuvre and deliver payloads, then glides back to Earth for a runway landing.

Much of its mission profile is classified. Analysts have warned that such platforms could be used to deploy weapons or disrupt satellites in the early stages of a conflict.

China has its own shuttle-like craft, the CSSHQ, which has completed two known missions. Although its capabilities remain under wraps, its presence has been closely monitored by defence agencies.

Beijing has invested heavily in near-space operations, pouring resources into projects able to operate beyond the reach of most conventional aircraft.

The desert around Lop Nur provides the perfect environment - there are no prying eyes, no commercial flights to avoid and no towns whose residents might ask awkward questions.

Satellite images taken in late summer 2025 indicate that the same runway is now home to two radically shaped stealth jets. These were not familiar fighters from China's existing inventory.

They were smooth, angular machines with no visible tails, built to slip past radar systems and travel at high speeds across long distances.

The larger of the pair is known to analysts as the J-36, a tailless, three-engine aircraft with a diamond-shaped wing planform that has been turning heads in aviation circles since a prototype was first spotted on test flights over Chengdu in December 2024.

The J-36 is roughly 65ft across the wings and about 62ft long, and it appears to have been built to carry a heavy mix of weapons over long distances at high speed

The J-36 is big, roughly 65ft across the wings and about 62ft long, and it appears to have been built to carry a heavy mix of weapons over long distances at high speed.

Imagery and technical assessments suggest it is intended as a sixth-generation multirole aircraft that can perform air superiority, deep strike and command and control roles, including managing 'loyal wingman' drones in combat.

Its smooth upper surface and lack of a traditional tail are designed to shrink its radar signature.

Its design is central to its purpose - one aviation expert told the Telegraph that the tailless shape is meant to scatter radar signals. He said: 'By taking the tail away, then you have a nice, smooth aircraft where the radar signals are scattered, rather than then sent back to the receiver.'

Others believe the jet could serve as a command platform for swarms of drones, orchestrating multiple unmanned craft while carrying a substantial payload of air-to-ground or long-range missiles.

Alongside the J-36 sits a smaller stealth jet known as the J-XDS or J-50, which appears to prioritise altitude and speed. It comes with two engines, a single seat, and a smooth planform that reduces its visibility on radar.

Layton said it was built to 'launch missiles before anybody picks it up'.

Analysts have indicated that the two aircraft are designed to work together in deep strike missions, entering heavily defended airspace at high speed and attacking from distances where defenders have only seconds to respond.

The smaller J-XDS or J-50

All of this matters because of the broader strategic landscape taking shape in East Asia. For decades, Beijing has insisted that Taiwan is part of its territory, even as the island rejects that claim.

US intelligence agencies have assessed that president Xi has instructed China's military to be capable of taking the island by 2027, although Beijing has never publicly committed to that timeline.

The appearance of these aircraft at Lop Nur suggests China is developing platforms that could play a central role in any potential assault.

Lop Nur's secrets do not end with aircraft - tunnels cut into the hills of the east runway have become a source of growing concern.

Between 2020 and 2024, analysts identified new boreholes, access roads and buildings at a site historically associated with China's nuclear programme. It has been suggested that the construction suggests preparations for underground tests.

Horizontal tunnels carved into hillsides can support very low-yield nuclear experiments that do not produce detectable seismic activity, while deeper vertical shafts are used for larger detonations.

No seismic data has indicated a major test in recent years. However, analysts have not ruled out the possibility of very low-yielding trials.

This activity is occurring at the same time that China is expanding its nuclear arsenal at unprecedented speed. According to international research institutes, China had around 500 nuclear warheads in early 2024.

However, according to a report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute this year, the country now has around 600.

The rapid rate of development, some critics say, is a desperate bid to catch up with the US, which reportedly has 5,177 nuclear warheads.

It is adding warheads faster than any other nuclear-armed state. The Pentagon has warned that China is building more than 350 new silos for intercontinental ballistic missiles across several fields, including one near the Lop Nur region.

The intelligence agency warned that by 2030, its nuclear arsenal will likely reach 1,000, in its report on Beijing's military capabilities.

China's liquid-fueled intercontinental strategic nuclear missiles Dong Feng-5C on display at the country's military parade in September. A report this year warned China may have 1000 nuclear warheads by 2030

After the report, a defence official who wished to remain anonymous told journalists: 'I would certainly expect them to continue expanding and modernising their force after that.'

Although China claims to have a 'no first use' policy, meaning it won't fire first in the face of confrontation, observers are still concerned.

The official added: 'They also are showing some interest in developing a new conventional ICBM that could strike Hawaii, Alaska and the continental United States.'

Western officials and agencies have long warned that China does not divulge its full military budget. It has been suggested that the country spends 40 per cent more than it actually discloses, pegging its spending between $330 and $450billion.

Defence officials have described this shift as historic. Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the United Kingdom's Chief of the Defence Staff, warned in late 2024 that the world was entering 'a third nuclear age'.

In an address at the Royal United Services Institute, he said Russia, China, Iran and North Korea were reshaping global security. He described China's rapid nuclear expansion as one of the defining challenges of the decade.

In the United States, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has issued his own warnings.

'The Chinese are undertaking the most rapid military buildup in human history,' he said. 'A part of that is their expansion of their nuclear capability. So obviously we're keeping an eye on that, and I think everybody is concerned about that.'

His statement reflected growing anxiety in Washington about how to respond.

That anxiety erupted into political debate when President Donald Trump declared on October 29, 2025, that he had instructed the Pentagon to resume nuclear testing.

In a post, he said: 'Because of other countries testing programs, I have instructed the Department of War to start testing our Nuclear Weapons on an equal basis. That process will begin immediately.'

When asked whether this meant explosive underground testing, he said: 'I'm saying we're going to test nuclear weapons like other countries do, yes.'

He added: 'Russia's testing, and China's testing, but they don't talk about it.' Trump also said: 'I don't want to be the only country that doesn't test.'

While Washington debated its next steps, analysts found more evidence of Chinas ambitions far above the atmosphere. Beijings progress in space warfare has accelerated dramatically in recent years.

In 2021, China tested a nuclear-capable hypersonic glide vehicle that travelled around the globe before descending on its target in a manoeuvre that stunned US defence officials.

China has also developed an array of anti-satellite weapons, including systems capable of disabling or blinding Western orbital technology.

A Long March 4B said to be carrying Chinese Shijan-6 Group 05 satellites launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre. Chinese scientists are racing ahead to boost the military's capabilities

It has been reported that Chinese scientists have developed a high-power microwave beam weapon that combines pulses of energy into a single focused burst, drawing comparisons to the destructive beams of science fiction.

It has been claimed that it can fire 19 gigawatt power beams, capable enough to destroy drones, satellites and more. The weapon is currently in the design phase.

Among the most striking developments are the Shijian satellites. In 2016 and 2021, China tested Shijian 16 and Shijian 21, both equipped with robotic arms capable of grabbing other satellites and towing them into new orbits.

Shijian 21 demonstrated this capability by pulling a defunct Beidou navigation satellite more than 1,800 miles farther out into a disposal orbit.

China insisted the manoeuvre was designed to reduce space debris. Analysts acknowledged the technology could serve benign purposes but warned that it also had clear offensive potential.

They argue that a satellite able to tow debris out of the way could just as easily remove critical components from an enemys communications or early warning network.

Chinas ambitions are not limited to Earth orbit. In June 2024, its Change 6 spacecraft landed on the far side of the Moon, touching down in the South Pole Aitken Basin.

The far side of the Moon is one of the most challenging regions for space exploration because it always faces away from Earth, making communication and control far more difficult.

Chinas ability to reach the region twice has strengthened its claim to be a serious competitor in deep space exploration.

These developments form a pattern- at Lop Nur, machines that do not appear in public are undergoing testing. In orbit, satellites capable of manipulating other spacecraft are being refined.

Underground, test tunnels suggest preparations for a new phase of nuclear development. On missile fields across the western deserts, silos are rising in long grids of concrete and steel.

Soldiers of the People's Liberation Army marching during a parade. The military's strength is being expanded in multiple directions

Chinas military capability is expanding in multiple directions at once, reaching into the skies, burrowing into the earth and climbing beyond the atmosphere.

Lop Nur sits in the middle of that transformation. It does not sit on any tourist route and neither does it have any city nearby, meaning no ordinary flight will ever fly past it.

However, defence analysts have come to recognise its significance from faint satellite images captured from far above, each one peeling back the secrecy of what China is quietly building.

The question for Western defence chiefs and intelligence is how long it will be before the weapons being assembled reach beyond the desert that hides them.
The only two people ever to be jailed for female genital mutilation (FGM) in Ireland had their convictions quashed and are now seeking to obtain a certificate of miscarriage of justice.

The young married couple were jailed in November 2019 after a court found they had committed FGM on their infant daughter.

Halawa and Sayeed (not their real names) were convicted but maintained they never harmed their daughter Ayeesha (not her real name), yet were jailed.

Halawa was imprisoned for four years and nine months and Sayeed was sentenced to five-and-a-half years.

They were both charged with two separate counts, including an act of FGM and child cruelty, with sentences running concurrently.

A six-part RTE podcast series, First Conviction, narrated by Oscar-nominated Co. Limerick actress Ruth Negga, and written and produced by Tim Desmond and Liam O'Brien alongside reporter Pam Fraher, has investigated the circumstances surrounding the case.

Their case sheds light on significant issues found within the translation services of the justice system  with the couple, originally from non-English speaking African regions, having lived in Ireland for nearly a decade.

It was the finding of these faults that founded a successful appeal which overturned their convictions, after the couple  who were then parents to three children under five  had spent two years in prison.

The young married couple (depicted here) were jailed in November 2019 after a court found they had committed FGM on their infant daughter

First Conviction was built on interviews of the couple for more than a year and discussions with legal teams and experts.

FGM is the partial or total removal of the external genitalia of a girl or woman for non-medical reasons.

More than 230million women and girls have experienced FGM, the World Health Organisation states.

The situation began nine years ago in a flat in south Dublin. Sayeed recalled finding Ayeesha crying and bleeding from an unknown source after falling over  prompting him to take her to Crumlin Children's Hospital.

Sayeed told RTE he had pushed for Ayeesha to have an internal inspection as the bleeding persisted  after a nurse told them they could go home.

The subsequent examination led to suspicions of harm by hospital staff who did not believe Sayeed's explanation that his daughter had fallen on to a toy and, as a result, child protection protocol was instigated.

Tusla and gardai became involved in the case and issues surrounding translation occurred in Sayeed's very first interview at the Garda station.

Translation expert Dr Mary Phelan told RTE: 'With the first interpreter, there are a lot of problems with his French, and so he has difficulty interpreting caution; the reason why the person is being interviewed; he doesn't know how to translate FGM; and it's clear from the video that he has no pen or paper. He is totally reliant on his memory and he frequently omits details.'

Problems continued into Sayeed's second interview, as the interpreter struggled to translate legal phrases and didn't know how to translate FGM.

This goes against one's constitutional right in Ireland to clearly understand everything that is being said to them and the process, Dr Phelan said.

After numerous interviews and statements, the couple were subsequently arrested and put on trial.

FGM carries a maximum sentence of 14 years under the Criminal Justice Female Genital Mutilation Act 2012.

Halawa and Sayeed's convictions were the first in the State under the Act, which was written into law four years before Halawa's injury.

Both Halawa and Sayeed pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court in November 2019 to both counts against them: carrying out the act of FGM on their daughter, and child cruelty.

The DPP never accused the couple of actually performing FGM on Ayeesha  instead it alleged they 'aided, abetted or procured' an act of FGM on their daughter while being present as it was performed.

This was argued despite the gardai failing to provide any evidence of someone else being involved, therefore performing the actual act causing Ayeesha's injury.

A six-part RTE podcast series, First Conviction, narrated by Oscar-nominated Co. Limerick actress Ruth Negga , and written and produced by Tim Desmond and Liam O'Brien alongside reporter Pam Fraher (pictured), has investigated the circumstances surrounding the case

The trend of negligence surrounding translation continued into the trial and the switching between three languages in court: English, French and an African language.

It was decided that the case would continue to be heard on the second day of the trial despite the absence of Halawa's interpreter  who failed to attend due to a road traffic accident.

Evidence provided by the gardai was being translated from English into French for Sayeed by his translator, who would then translate it into Halawa's African language.

The day concluded after it became too difficult to translate evidence from a forensic scientist.

During the trial, medical professionals questioned the couple's story by saying the injury did not appear to be accidental, nor was it consistent with the story of how it happened.

Paediatric surgeon Dr Sri Paran told the court Ayeesha's injury could not have been accidental when he examined her at hospital  prompting him to refer the case to the gardai.

According to Dr Sinead Harty  who was the lead of Crumlin Children's Hospital for child protection  the clitoral head was missing when she examined Ayeesha; she told the court that 'it was caused by female genital mutilation,' which was upheld by Dr Deborah T Hodes, an FGM expert brought in by the prosecution, whose report concluded that in her opinion 'the findings are consistent with FGM'.

It was an opinion held despite there being no sign that Ayeesha had been sedated nor held down  which are commonly attributed with the act of FGM.

This counter-argument was supported by CCTV footage showing Ayeesha jumping from chair to chair in the hospital  and the lack of medical proof of bruising or sedation.

Failings in the translation of information resumed on a critical part of the defence of the trial, concerning how the couple found Ayeesha when she injured herself.

Back-and-forth confusion persisted in court over the words 'standing,' 'sitting' and 'over'  which is said to have impacted nearly all of Sayeed's evidence as he maintained that Ayeesha injured herself by falling on a toy.

Sayeed told RTE: 'The jury didn't hear what I was expressing. Maybe the interpreter struggled to translate legal phrases and didn't know how to translate FGM.'

This goes against one's constitutional right in Ireland to clearly understand everything that is being said to them and the process, Dr Phelan said.

After numerous interviews and statements, the couple were subsequently arrested and put on trial. FGM carries a maximum sentence of 14 years under the Criminal Justice Female Genital Mutilation Act 2012.

Halawa and Sayeed's convictions were the first in the State under the Act, which was written into law four years before Halawa's injury.

Both Halawa and Sayeed pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court in November 2019 to both counts against them: carrying out the act of FGM on their daughter, and child cruelty.

The DPP never accused the couple of actually performing FGM on Ayeesha  instead it alleged they 'aided, abetted or procured' an act of FGM on their daughter while being present as it was performed.

This was argued despite the gardai failing to provide any evidence of someone else being involved, therefore performing the actual act causing Ayeesha's injury.

Halawa and Sayeed (not their real names) were convicted but maintained they never harmed their daughter Ayeesha (not her real name), yet were jailed

Halawa was imprisoned for four years and nine months and Sayeed was sentenced to five-and-a-half years

The trend of negligence surrounding translation continued into the trial and the switching between three languages in court: English, French and an African language.

It was decided that the case would continue to be heard on the second day of the trial despite the absence of Halawa's interpreter  who failed to attend due to a road traffic accident.

Evidence provided by the gardai was being translated from English into French for Sayeed by his translator, who would then translate it into Halawa's African language.

The day concluded after it became too difficult to translate evidence from a forensic scientist.

During the trial, medical professionals questioned the couple's story by saying the injury did not appear to be accidental, nor was it consistent with the story of how it happened.

Paediatric surgeon Dr Sri Paran told the court Ayeesha's injury could not have been accidental when he examined her at hospital  prompting him to refer the case to the gardai.

According to Dr Sinead Harty  who was the lead of Crumlin Children's Hospital for child protection  the clitoral head was missing when she examined Ayeesha; she told the court that 'it was caused by female genital mutilation,' which was upheld by Dr Deborah T Hodes, an FGM expert brought in by the prosecution, whose report concluded that in her opinion 'the findings are consistent with FGM'.

It was an opinion held despite there being no sign that Ayeesha had been sedated nor held down  which are commonly attributed with the act of FGM.

This counter-argument was supported by CCTV footage showing Ayeesha jumping from chair to chair in the hospital  and the lack of medical proof of bruising or sedation.

Failings in the translation of information resumed on a critical part of the defence of the trial, concerning how the couple found Ayeesha when she injured herself.

Back-and-forth confusion persisted in court over the words 'standing', 'sitting' and 'over'  which is said to have impacted nearly all of Sayeed's evidence as he maintained that Ayeesha injured herself by falling on a toy.

Sayeed told RTE: 'The jury didn't hear what I was expressing. Maybe they were thinking I'm lying, I'm escaping the question, I'm not answering it properly I was deeply sad and did not have hope for justice.'

After around four hours of deliberation, the jury unanimously found both Sayeed and Halawa guilty of both counts. In January 2020, Judge Elma Sheahan jailed the father for five and-a-half years and the mother to four years and nine months.

During their imprisonment, the couple assembled new legal teams and began to appeal their convictions after more than 250 days in prison.

Defence solicitor James McGuill led Sayeed's appeal.

On reading the transcripts of the trial, Mr McGuill told the programme: 'It just looked like gibberish because the questions didn't follow the answers and the answers didn't follow the questions.'

This formed the first grounds of appeal while the second was based on medical evidence and medical expert opinion on the trial.

The new legal teams sought new expert medical opinion.

After a delay in the appeal process due to the Covid pandemic, the defence teams were given a rare permission to choose new evidence  as there was 'real concern about the safety of the conviction', Mr McGuill said.

He added: 'The court were already with us on interpretation because they could see straight away that the standard was unacceptable.'

This argument was bolstered after Dr Phelan gave expert opinion on the court translations, highlighting crucial errors.

The second ground of appeal  on medical evidence and expert opinion  was supported by Professor Birgitta Essen, an expert on FGM.

After reading the medical reports and watching videos of Ayeesha's injuries, Professor Essen concluded that no FGM had taken place.

This contradicted the original medical expert provided by the couple's previous legal teams, who admitted he had no particular expertise on FGM  and ended up agreeing with the medical witnesses brought forward by prosecution.

Notably, no FGM expert had actually physically examined Ayeesha throughout the years.

In 2021, the couple successfully appealed their charges on the first ground of failings around translation  due to not having a fair trial through inaccurate translation and, therefore, being unable to properly defend themselves.

Halawa and Sayeed were released from prison and returned home to their three children.

This marked the first time in Ireland that translation issues formed the foundation of a successful Circuit Court appeal, according to RTE.

A retrial took place in 2023 and concluded after a jury was unable to agree on a verdict.

The charges were subsequently dropped by the DPP in 2024 as it entered a nolle prosequi  meaning prosecution will stop.

An application was then made to the Court of Appeal in January for a certificate of miscarriage of justice.

Sayeed and Halawa's story will continue in January  when an application for their wrongful conviction will be heard.
When it comes to the bitter art of winning in court but emerging a de facto loser due to the personal financial cost, few names spring to mind faster these days than Linda Reynolds.

The former defence minister famously took her former staffer Brittany Higgins and Higgins's husband David Sharaz to court over defamatory tweets.

She won and cleared her name - yet Reynolds may walk away with little more than a moral victory for her troubles due to the exorbitant cost of it all and the fact Sharaz is in the midst of bankruptcy proceedings, and Higgins could soon be.

On one level, I admire her determination to clear her name, whatever the cost. But she has no doubt paid a steep price for vindication.

This sorry saga got me thinking more generally about the absurdity of the Australian legal system when I saw another case we reported last week - where someone could 'win' a fight over a $107 parking fine and still walk away more than $46,000 out of pocket.

You see, that's what happened to one Ms Mathie in South Australia, after a four-year saga that wound its way from a magistrates' court to the Court of Appeal, attracted the attention of the state's Attorney-General, and ended with the council quietly withdrawing the charge. You can read all about it here.

On paper, she prevailed. In reality, most ordinary Aussies would regard it as a major loss, considering the time and cost of seeking justice.

Her story is a neat illustration of a much bigger problem. Whenever the little person takes on government or big corporations in court, the odds are invariably stacked against them in ways that go well beyond the strength of their case.

Linda Reynolds (right) is far from the only recent example of someone who has 'won' in an Australian court only to emerge a de facto loser due to the personal financial cost

The former defence minister (far left) famously took her former staffer Brittany Higgins (second from left) and Higgins's husband David Sharaz to court over defamatory tweets

She cleared her name - yet Reynolds may walk away with only a moral victory for her troubles. Sharaz (right) is in the midst of bankruptcy proceedings, and Higgins (left) could soon be

Even when they are in the right - even when they 'win' - the system makes sure they bleed.

The brutal truth in civil courts is this: at best, a successful party gets back perhaps 60 or 70 per cent of their legal costs. It is extremely rare for full costs to be awarded.

And that's on a good day, with a sympathetic judge and a clear-cut victory.

The remaining 30-40 per cent - which can easily run into tens of thousands of dollars, if not much more - comes straight out of the winner's pocket.

For someone on an average income, that is life-changing money. For a local council, a government department or a big company, it is a rounding error.

That is why the big end of town is so litigious - those making the decisions to head to court are spending other people's money.

If they lose, of course, the position of the little person is truly dire.

They not only pay their own lawyer, but a significant portion of the other side's bill too. Unless you're wealthy, that can be a shock. And big players tend to spend far more on legal fees than any individual could sensibly afford, precisely because they can.

This sorry saga got me thinking more generally about the Australian legal system - one where someone could 'win' a fight over a $107 parking fine and still walk away more than $46,000 out of pocket. Recently, a driver argued that Playford Council, in northern Adelaide, had falsely charged her with double parking after she became stuck in heavy traffic on Boucaut Avenue, Blakeview (seen here). She won her case - but at a heavy cost

Playford Council is now worried about the implications of the parking fine incident

They brief senior counsel, throw hours of solicitor time at the matter, commission expert reports. When a court later decides how much of those costs the loser should pay, the number can be staggering.

Often the size of the spend by the big end of town is deliberate: to maximise their chance of winning, of course, but also to tee up a bill for their opponents designed to break them.

Layered on top of that is the uncertainty that is inherent in any court case. Judges get things wrong. Borderline issues can go either way. Technicalities suddenly appear out of nowhere. People lie under oath and get believed.

The system is far from an exact science. The appeals process exists to correct miscarriages of justice, but each rung up the judicial ladder becomes more expensive.

Most don't bother appealing decisions that might have been wrong because they calculate that even an appeal court win won't see them recover all their costs, and the risks of losing again are too great.

Given how often lower courts make mistakes that higher courts overturn, it is sobering to think how many incorrect judgements remain unchallenged simply due to the prohibitive cost of appealing.

A point of principle may be vindicated in a superior court two or three years down the track - but by then the legal costs have outstripped the original dispute many times over. The little person is paying not just for their day in court, but for the privilege of climbing a system designed by and for professionals - to be (mis)used by governments and big corporates playing with other people's money.

In the Mathie matter, the Playford Council pursued the case all the way to the Court of Appeal, and the Attorney-General of South Australia joined in to support them. This was never about a single parking ticket, we were told, but about 'the integrity of the expiation system'.

In other words, it was worth spending many multiples of the original fine because the money wasn't coming out of the pockets of those making the decision. Taxpayers funded the fight. When they lose, they socialise the cost. When they win, they entrench the imbalance.

This is the quiet scandal of access to justice in Australia that doesn't get enough attention. We talk endlessly about the rule of law and equality before the law, and we love the image of the scales of justice: blindfolded, balanced, impartial. Yet in civil courts, those scales are heavily weighted by who can afford the fight.

It's not just about hiring better lawyers - although that matters. It is about who can absorb risk, who can carry a loss, who can treat litigation as a strategic tool rather than an existential threat. In short, the legal system too often rewards the bully.

It is no accident that large corporations and governments will sometimes go to court even when they know they may not win. They do it because they can. It might deter others. It might clarify a point of law in their favour. It might simply send a message that they will not back down, encouraging future complainants to settle or walk away.

When the money at stake is someone else's - shareholders, taxpayers, ratepayers - rolling the dice on a legal strategy is much easier. The worst-case scenario is a write-down in a budget line. For the ordinary person on the other side, the worst-case scenario is losing their savings, their house, or their sanity.

Against that backdrop, I find myself wondering what advice Ms Mathie got along the way. Did she have lawyers from the outset? Was she properly warned about the potential cost exposure even if she ultimately succeeded? Did anyone spell out that a partial win could still be financially ruinous?

I've heard of too many examples where lawyers don't have their clients' interests at heart and don't warn them about these sort of consequences.

The courts have acknowledged that Ms Mathie was disadvantaged because she was unrepresented at one stage. But that in itself is part of the problem: many people represent themselves precisely because they cannot afford lawyers, or they run out of money partway through. The system is fiendishly complex, and those without legal training are punished for not knowing how to navigate it.

The rational lesson for ordinary Australians is as depressing as it is clear: If you are hit with a fine, or a threatened claim, or a heavy-handed letter from a government agency or corporate legal department, the safest response is often to take your medicine. Pay the fine, accept the black mark, sign the settlement, move on.

Not because you are wrong, but because the cost of proving you are right is prohibitive and the risks of losing are catastrophic.

Justice becomes a luxury good, available to those who can afford it, while everyone else learns to roll over before they even reach the courtroom door. I know of wealthy people who can afford legal costs but, having experienced the system firsthand, won't do it again, especially when going up against corporates or governments.

Can this broken system be fixed? In theory, yes.

Governments could change the rules so that when an individual takes on the state or a major corporation and wins, they are fully indemnified for their reasonable costs, not just a proportion.

We could cap the ability of public bodies to recover costs from private citizens except in truly vexatious cases.

We could create a public fund for test cases of genuine public importance, so that the burden is spread across society rather than borne by whichever unlucky person happened to be issued with the flawed ticket or unfair notice.

There are models overseas for legal insurance that soften the blow of adverse costs.

A radical idea in civil cases would be to allow lie detectors to be used on those giving evidence. The technology isn't perfect, of course, but I for one would trust it above some out-of-touch judge making a call on who is a reliable witness and who isn't.

But each of those ideas comes with complications and trade-offs. Someone still has to pay. More litigation might be encouraged. Governments are hardly eager to give up cost powers they routinely use, and often rely on the mere threat of, to coerce compliance.

Politicians who already intervene in almost every other aspect of our lives have shown remarkably little appetite to tackle this most basic barrier to justice.

Perhaps that is because the current system works well for institutions and badly for individuals? And it is institutions, not individuals, that have the ear of government.

What is undeniable is the effect all this has on public trust. People are not imagining that the deck is stacked against them - they know it is. Many have their own stories, or those of friends and family, where the cost of fighting city hall or a corporate giant proved too high, or where a technical victory still felt like defeat once the bills were paid.

No wonder confidence in institutions is eroding. It is hard to believe in the fairness of a system that tells you, in effect, that exercising your rights is financially reckless.

The parking fine that cost one woman more than $46,000 should not be treated as a quirky legal curiosity. It's a window into a justice system that is formally equal but functionally skewed.

Until our political leaders are willing to confront that imbalance, to change the incentives that let powerful players litigate with money to burn while ordinary Australians are warned off the courts entirely, we will continue to tell people that they are equal before the law while designing a system that punishes them for believing it.
Dressed up in dolls clothes, a male victim's harrowing account of sexual assault, and new revelations that a young girl was forced to perform a sex act on her Hamas captor in a shower highlight the increasing testimonies emerging from hostages raped in Gaza.

I have covered this conflict for the Daily Mail from the very first day, on the ground since October 7. That whole time, hostages were being held entirely at the mercy of their Gazan captors, some in isolation in dark tunnels.

And just when it seems Hamas's savagery has reached its limit, new accounts expose even greater depths of depravity.

Two years ago, when terrorists stormed the Israeli border, dragging peace-loving kibbutzniks from their beds and attacking young revellers at the Nova music festival, testimonies of sexual violence and torture began to emerge.

These accounts were presented to the United Nations, which documented multiple cases of abuse.

I have spoken to traumatised survivors of Nova who told me that while they were in hiding in bushes or playing dead, they heard women being raped.

One account submitted by the Association of Rape Crisis Centres in Israel described a woman being gang-raped, her breasts cut off with a box cutter as the terrorists took turns with her.

'They threw her breast on the floor', said a witness, who added that afterwards they played with it 'like a toy'.

Natalia Lisbona (pictured, in Gaza) has covered this conflict for the Daily Mail from the very first day, on the ground since October 7

Rom Braslavski, 21, was taken from the Nova music festival on October 7 while working as a security guard

At the same festival, one young man bravely told me he was gang-raped by several terrorists.

I was among a small group of journalists shown censored footage and photographs from the aftermath of the massacre at Israel's intelligence headquarters.

The images were ghastly - women had objects violently inserted into their groin area, it was impossible to tell what they were. A bullet? A nail? But the photos made me retch.

Among the pictures was the image of a woman in what was left of a black dress  her lifeless body twisted, her dignity stripped away, as she was exposed fully, a huge gash on her thigh. It is an image I will never forget.

Many of the women brutalised that day will never be able to testify  because they did not survive.

Two years later, Israel's wounds are still raw, open and, at times, festering.

On Wednesday, Aviva Siegal 62, who was kidnapped by Hamas on Oct 7 along with her husband, Keith 65, from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, spoke before the UN Committee Against Torture (UNCAT) in Geneva.

She recounted acts of sexual assault committed by Hamas, including a 16-year-old female hostage: 'I am witness to one of the girls who was with us, that the Hamas terrorist came to the bathroom, told her to get undressed, came into the shower with her, and forced her to do oral sex. And she had to smile after she did that too.

Pictured: An armed Palestinian militant leading a man away during the Supernova music festival

Aviva Siegal, seen here with her daughter Elan, also said the male hostages were also victims

'I am a witness of one of the girls who was forced to take a shower. She is 16 years old, she's never ever shown anybody her body, the Hamas terrorist just stood there and stared and smiled.

'One of the days, one of the girls went to the bathroom, and when she came back, she was shaking. She's young and after a while she told us a Hamas terrorist touched her whole body and did whatever he wanted. She was so scared because he said to her that if she said anything about it, he would kill her.'

Back in January 2024, Siegal testified that some of the female hostages were dressed up for their captor's depraved enjoyment.

'The terrorists bring inappropriate clothes, clothes for dolls and turn the girls into their dolls. Dolls on a string with which you can do whatever you want, whenever you want.'

Siegal, who was released in the first ceasefire deal after 51 days while her husband remained captive for 484 days, also said the male hostages were also victims.

'And it must be said that the boys also go through what the girls go through. They don't get pregnant, but they are also a puppet on a string', she told Israel's parliament.

Keith testified at the same hearing on Wednesday that he was forced to undress in front of his captives as they shaved his body: 'Our captives compared my body parts to those of another hostage, threatened us with knives, leaving us to beg to go to the bathroom.'

Dr Itai Pessach, who treated one-quarter of all hostages on their return at Sheba medical centre in Tel Aviv, would not discuss specific cases for fear of inadvertently identifying victims, but he emphasised the scale of sexual violence.

Amit Soussana was kicked and punched by Hamas gunmen as they abducted her on October 7

Amit Soussana revealed that she was sexually assaulted by a guard while she was held captive in Gaza by Hamas. She was kidnapped from her home in Kfar Aza, Israel during the October 7 raid. Ms Soussana is pictured outside the ruins of her home

'Almost fifty percent of them had endured significant sexual assaults,' he said.

'And how do you define it? Being watched naked while bathing and forced to dress in front of a few men ? To me, that also counts as assault. Therefore, the figure could be far higher', he told the Daily Mail.

Last week, the Daily Mail broke the world exclusive that Rom Braslavsky, 21, described sexual violence during his two years in captivity, where he was tortured, stripped naked and abused.

'It is sexual violence, and its main purpose was to humiliate me. The goal was to crush my dignity and that's exactly what he did,' Braslavsky told Channel 13's Hazinor programme. 'It's hard for me to talk about that part, specifically. I don't like to talk about it.'

It was the first time a male hostage had publicly gone on record. He also described other methods of torture such as stones forced in his ear and daily beatings while his captors were laughing.

Amit Sousanna, 40 was the first former hostage to speak publicly. She told how she was dragged from her home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza by ten men and then subjected to sexual acts at gunpoint in captivity.

Ilana Gritzewsky, 30, who was abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz, recounted that she lost consciousness during the kidnapping after being sexually assaulted.

When she came to in Gaza, she found herself half-naked and surrounded by seven men, who were frustrated when they realised she was on her period.

Fifteen-year-old Dafna Elkayim testified in May that her captor threatened to join her in the shower, said he would marry her and touched her inappropriately.

She was abducted alongside her eight-year-old sister, Ela, after their father and stepmother were murdered.

Noa Beer was driving away from the Nova festival site when she and the group she was with came up against a Hamas roadblock

One of the passengers is seen with blood streaming down his face in the chilling footage

Ilana Gritzewsky (pictured), who was abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz, recounted that she lost consciousness during the kidnapping after being sexually assaulted

Released hostage Ilana Gritzewsky poses for a portrait in her apartment in Kiryat Gat, Israel, on Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024, near photos of her boyfriend, Matan Zangauker, who was held hostage by Hamas in the Gaza Strip

Dafna Elyakim (pictured, right) and Ela Elyakim (pictured, left) were reunited with their mother Maayan Zin (pictured, centre)

A report submitted by Israel's Ministry of Health last year said Hamas captors forced two minors to perform sexual acts on one another, compelled them to undress in front of them, touched their private parts, and whipped their genitalia.

The same two former hostages reported being bound and beaten throughout their captivity, with scars and marks consistent with trauma.

Experts warn there are likely many more cases of sexual assault and rape among the released hostages that remain unreported, as survivors often stay silent due to shame and stigma.

Specialists in trauma care stress that victims need time, safety and psychological support before they can begin to speak about what happened to them  if they ever choose to at all.

'There is also the fact that many of the hostages endured such horrific experiences, that they would have blocked a lot of it out.' Says Dr Pessach.

After everything these men and women have endured over the past two years, there's at least some consolation in knowing that - should they choose - it's possible for them to talk about it, receive real help and begin to rebuild.

But my thoughts keep returning to the Palestinians who have spent the last 19 years living under Hamas's rule of terror and all the stories of abuse they will never be able to share.
She was placed in a position of trust, working with some of the nation's most vulnerable children with special educational needs.

Yet all the while, Laura Horton, who was appointed a director of Berkshire-based Remedicare Education, was under investigation for smuggling drugs into high-security prisons across the country.

Her criminal dealings were laid bare after a probe was launched into Horton during her departure from the notorious Broadmoor Hospital, where she formed an 'inappropriate relationship' with an inmate while working as a health care assistant.

Horton's home was searched and she was arrested in April 2022, with an ongoing investigation into her wrongdoings.

Despite this, she was made a director at Remedicare in June 2023.

With allegations as damning as hers, the question remains of how the 40-year-old, pictured looking teary-eyed in her mugshot, was able to secure a job at an educational facility where she would have been in contact with vulnerable children.

While the company maintain they carried out thorough checks when hiring Horton, she continued to work at the company despite being charged with drug smuggling in October 2024 and pleading guilty in May.

During her time at the company, Horton would have potentially overseen the rollout of art therapy and one-on-one tuition to special needs children.

The South East Regional Organised Crime Unit, who investigated her offences, found Horton had posted forged legal letters laced with class B spice to prisons at least 20 times between 2018 and 2022 and she was jailed in August.

Laura Horton was jailed in August for smuggling drugs into prisons across the country. She had been appointed director of an education company while under investigation

Broadmoor psychiatric hospital, which houses some of the most dangerous criminals in the country. It was while working here as a health care assistant that Horton grew dangerously close to an inmate

Horton's drug smuggling offences were allegedly linked to her 'inappropriate' relationship with an inmate while working at Broadmoor, the highest security psychiatric hospital in Crowthorne, Berkshire.

The hospital is known to house some of the most dangerous criminals in the country.

Horton, from leafy Aldershot in Surrey, formed links with offenders across the country and police found she had laundered around 28,000 to her bank account, using multiple aliases.

When a probe was launched into her dealings with an inmate, she left her role at the hospital, after which she was arrested, and months later began her role at Remedicare.

Remedicare, nestled in the quiet market town of Wokingham, charges nearly 70,000-a-year per pupil and pledges to help children 'reach their full potential' through services including therapy and one-on-one tutoring.

It offers 'alternative provision' for children with special educational needs (SEN) who cannot attend mainstream schools.

And so serious concerns were raised when the 'unregistered' education provider was found to have been employing a criminal.

Horton was only sacked from the company in June this year, and in August was sentenced to two years and two months at Reading Crown Court after admitting conveying a List A article into prison, concealing criminal property and being concerned in the supply of a controlled drug.

Remedicare claims to have followed safe recruitment checks when hiring Horton, including enhanced DBS checks, reference checks and 'confirmation she was not on any barred lists'.

Yet Horton remained at Remedicare for two years, long after first being charged with the offences.

Remedicare claimed background checks were 'repeated' during Horton's employment and 'continued to return clear results'.

She reportedly stayed heavily involved in the provider until she was jailed, though the company say she 'never had responsibility for running the business' and was 'moved into a non-student facing position' after they were made aware of the charges.

During her case, prosecutors said one of the drug-filled letters was intercepted at HMP Swaleside in Kent in December 2021 and another at HMP Isle of Wight in January 2022.

The plot, investigators said, was nationwide.

The education worker was brought down by police officers of the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU).

Its head, Detective Chief Superintendent Steve Boniface, said supplying drugs like spice into prisons 'has a devastating impact'.

He said: 'It is responsible for prisoners' ill health, serious violence and on occasion has led to deaths.

Pictured: Remedicare Education. The company maintains that it carried out safer-recruitment procedures when hiring and carried out further checks during her employment

'Laura Horton would have been aware of this impact having worked within Broadmoor Psychiatric Hospital where security measures are similar to mainstream prisons.'

Spice, which is typically smoked, is a synthetic cannabis that can leave users feeling relaxed and euphoric - but can also trigger bouts of psychosis.

Remedicare charges 365 a day per child, which racks up to almost 70,000 for a 190-day school year.

According to the Reading Chronicle, Reading Borough Council spent thousands of pounds of taxpayers' money sending vulnerable children to the education facility.

The council initially said the company never alerted them that a member of staff was under criminal investigation, but have since retracted this statement.

Ofsted began a criminal investigation into Remedicare Education after Horton was jailed and has visited its sites in Wokingham.

The company says the watchdog had agreed that children were not at risk, but it is now accused of not registering as a school, which would have led to a greater level of scrutiny by authorities.

Ofsted said it is unable to share any information about current investigations.

A spokesman said it regrets hiring Horton and downplayed her role, despite her name being listed as director on Companies House.

It is understood steps are being taken to remove Horton as a shareholder.

It comes after a primary school teacher who tried to smuggle letters laced with drugs into prison was banned from the classroom in March.

Vivienne Williams, 30, was teaching at Elsley Primary School in Wembley, north west London, when she tried to send parcels laced with spice worth an estimated 17,000 to prisons in Wandsworth, Nottingham and Cardiff.

She was jailed for two and a half years in October 2023 - but this year banned from teaching for life following a probe by the Teaching Regulation Authority (TRA).

A spokesman for Remedicare Education told the Daily Mail: 'We would like to be clear that the offences involving Laura Horton took place before her employment with Remedicare Education, and none of the offences are connected to our services, our team, or the young people we support.

'Ms Horton's position was a strategic, business-support role. She never had responsibility for running the business as has been alleged, although she was a director for a short period of time.

'She was not employed to deliver therapy, provide direct care, lead training on safeguarding or manage day-to-day educational provision.

'Our centres are led by qualified and experienced staff, including teachers and SEN specialists.

'At the point of hiring Ms Horton, all safer-recruitment procedures were followed.

'As soon as concerns were raised around her forthcoming charges, we sought ongoing guidance from the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) and followed that guidance based on the information legally available to us at every stage.

'When we were made aware in late 2024 that Ms Horton was being charged, she was moved into a non-student-facing position, then suspended, and subsequently dismissed as new stages of information became clear.

'She had no contact with students after her role was changed at the start of 2025. LADO has since closed the matter and confirmed they were satisfied with our actions.

'We followed every step that we could and should have taken legally as her case and the facts of it came to light stage by stage.

'We are currently in the process of working though share transfer legislation to fully remove Ms Horton as a shareholder.'

Lara Patel, Executive Director of Children's Services at Reading Borough Council, said: 'The Council fully acknowledges the concerns being raised, both in relation to the commissioning of the placement provided at Remedicare, and the circumstances relating to the employment by this provider of a person who was subsequently the subject of a criminal investigation.

'Immediate assurance regarding current safe employment practices has been provided by Remedicare and further monitoring and investigation is in place.

'The Council cannot comment further pending the conclusion of the investigation but is retracting and apologising for its initial inaccurate statement that the provider did not notify Reading of a criminal investigation being in progress at the time the placement was made.

'This was not the case and the reasons for this information not being immediately available are part of the review and complaint investigation.

'Separately, an internal review of how placements are commissioned has highlighted the need to further strengthen the process, which the Council is fully committed to.

'The Council is committed to the safeguarding of children at all times.'
A teenager has been charged with the murder of schoolgirl Lainie Williams, 17, who was stabbed to death in her own bedroom by an intruder yesterday morning.

Cameron Cheng, 18, has today been charged with murder of Lainie and the attempted murder of a 38-year-old woman.

Lainie was found fatally wounded at her home in Cefn Fforest, near Blackwood, South Wales, shortly after 7am on Thursday, while her mother Rhian Stephens, 38, was left with serious injuries.

Cheng has been additionally charged with possession of a bladed article in a public place and is remanded to appear before Newport Magistrates' Court on Monday, November 17.

The 18-year-old, who is a British national and was previously in a relationship with Lainie, remains in custody.

It is understood Lainie's mother, Rhian, has now been discharged from hospital.

Relatives said the knifeman stabbed Ms Stephens, who was rushed to hospital, before running into Lainie's bedroom, where she was sleeping.

College student Lainie, who had been looking forward to her forthcoming 18th birthday, died at the scene after trying to fight off her attacker.

In touching tributes today her family have described how the teenager was 'so loved'.

Her cousin Megan wrote on social media: 'There's not enough words, rest peacefully our brave and beautiful cousin Lainie. Very fond childhood memories I'll cherish forever.

Lainie Williams (pictured) was pronounced dead at the scene of the incident on Wheatley Place in the Cefn Fforest area of Blackwood, Gwent

Cameron Cheng, 18, has today been charged with the murder of Lainie Williams, with whom he was previously in a relationship, and the attempted murder of a 38-year-old woman

Police at the scene on Wheatley Place in the Cefn Fforest area of Blackwood, Gwent, on Thursday morning

'You were and still are so loved.'

Meanwhile friends told of their devastation, with one writing: 'No words. Rest in peace beautiful girl, I will cherish our memories as kids forever.'

A second added: 'It was a pleasure to know you beautiful. Rest in Paradise.'

The family has set up a GoFundMe campaign to go towards funeral costs.

Armed police were called to the family's three-bedroom former council house in the village of Cefn Fforest. Paramedics arrived in an air ambulance but were sadly unable to save Lainie, and she was declared dead at the scene.

Cefn Fforest Councillor Shane Williams said: 'We are all deeply shocked and saddened by the events that have unfolded.

'As councillors, we'd like to do our best to reassure everyone, and our thoughts are with the family at this time.

'We are all hoping for a full recovery for the woman who was hospitalised. Something like this is highly unusual in this area, and I can understand if many residents are now frightened.

Cheng, pictured with his family, has been additionally charged with possession of a bladed article in a public place. He has been remanded to appear before Newport Magistrates' Court on Monday, November 17

Lainie's mother, Rhian Stephens, 38, was rushed to hospital following the attack

Armed police were called to the family's three-bedroom former council house in the village of Cefn Fforest, while paramedics arrived in an air ambulance but were unable to save Lainie

'When a young girl loses her life like that, it's quite horrendous.'

Independent Councillor Kevin Ethridge added: 'As the local county councillor for Blackwood, I'd like to send my condolences to the family.'

Assistant Chief Constable Vicki Townsend said: 'We understand that there has been a great deal of interest in this investigation.

'It is vital that people consider how their language, especially comments made online, could affect our ability to bring anyone found to have committed a criminal offence to justice.

'Even though we've reached this significant development in the investigation, our enquiries continue so it is likely that residents will continue to see officers in the area.

'So if anyone has any information, please speak to our officers or contact us in the usual way.'

Anyone with information can contact police by calling 101, sending a direct message on social media or via the form on our website and quoting log reference 2500361653, or Crimestoppers anonymously.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Legal representatives for Tendai Biti Law have issued a public statement addressing recent reports of a police presence at the firm's offices in Milton Park, Harare, on 15 November 2025.The law firm, represented by Mr. Jeremiah Bamu, confirmed that the deployment of multiple police officers in the area was part of routine law enforcement duties and was not specifically targeting Tendai Biti, the firm, its staff, or partners.According to the statement, the police reassured the firm that neither Mr. Biti, the law firm, nor any of its employees are subjects of any ongoing investigations. The firm also noted that it has pledged full cooperation with law enforcement if required through proper channels."The police confirmed that our clients are not wanted in connection with any matter," the statement said, emphasizing that the firm's staff and partners remain law-abiding citizens ready to engage with authorities as needed.The notice aims to clarify misinformation and reassure the public and clients that the police presence was not linked to any investigation involving Tendai Biti Law.
A Miami Beach socialite was arrested for allegedly trafficking underage girls on his yacht and forcing them to have sex with him.

Kutay Satiroglu, 45, was taken into custody Wednesday after being accused of sexually and physically abusing a 17-year-old girl, according to NBC 6.

Police began investigating Satiroglu after the girl's family reported that the teen was being held captive in his boat, the outlet said.

The girl alleged that Satiroglu kept her on his vessel and forced her to have sex with his friends while charging up to $800 for each, per a police report.

She also claimed the Florida man was trafficking two other women as part of his boat business.

Satiroglu was charged with human trafficking, lewd and lascivious battery on a child and contributing to the delinquency of a child, according to the Miami-Dade County corrections system.

He was booked into jail Thursday.

The teen reportedly first met Satiroglu in April at a nightclub. She told him she was 21, but admitted that same night she was actually underage.

Kutay Satiroglu, 45, was taken into custody Wednesday after being accused of sexually abusing a 17-year-old girl

Satiroglu was charged with human trafficking, lewd and lascivious battery on a child and contributing to the delinquency of a child

Satiroglu allegedly offered the young girl, who has not been named, a job as a steward on his yacht, before they became a 'couple.'

She said that they then moved into the yacht full-time, before he allegedly forced her into performing sexual services to pay for their vessel.

Satiroglu allegedly charged up to $800 for the underage teen to have sex with his friends, the report said.

The girl claimed Satiroglu taught her to get paid upfront and gave her drugs during the parties he hosted.

She told law enforcement Satiroglu had made her invite girl friends to his boat to have sex with him.

If she refused, he beat her, the report alleged.

The girl claimed he had become violent with her again only two days before she spoke to police.

Satiroglu's public social media profiles included years of photos of him partying and posing alongside different women

The Miami Beach charter boat owner's online presence showed him living a luxurious style while in the company of different women

The teen told law enforcement she went along with Satiroglu's orders because she was in love with him and wanted to please him.

Satiroglu reportedly refused to speak with detectives before being arrested in the trafficking case.

A Miami-Dade judge determined Satiroglu would be held without bond Thursday.

Satiroglu's social media profiles showed the Miami Beach charter boat owner often held parties on his boats, riding jet skis and surrounded by young women.

His LinkedIn page said he had been a commodore at King's Yacht in Miami Beach since 2017.

The company touts renting private, luxury boats for events.

Prior to that, Satiroglu claimed to have been a boat owner since 2011 and said he had trained for seven years in Hikone, Japan.

Satiroglu allegedly charged up to $800 for the underage teen to have sex with his friends

The 45-year-old was was booked into jail Thursday and a Miami-Dade judge later said Satiroglu would be held without bond

Before this week's arrest, Satiroglu already had an extensive record featuring more than 50 criminal offenses.

The Daily Mail reached out to the Miami Beach Police Department for comment.
State-of-the-art technology in electric and hybrid cars has come under fire for advising drivers they can do 80mph in 30mph zones - including past schools.

The (TSR) system reads signs with special cameras and notifies drivers with audio and visual cues about surrounding conditions, including speed limits.

However, online forums are full of owners complaining that the feature - which now comes as standard in the premium 55,000 Mazda CX-60 and 37,000 Volvo XC40 - has been misreading signs and setting off alarms to alert them they are in 80mph, 90mph and even 100mph zones - which dont exist under UK road laws.

One driver reported being advised he could do 80mph in a Sainsburys car park, another said the problem causes mayhem around schools, while a third commented: So far it has read ten as 70, 19 as 90 and 30 as 80. Its really dangerous.

While faulty alerts can be ignored, some driver assistance packages link TSR with self-adapting cruise control. This can cause the vehicle to suddenly accelerate or brake automatically to match an incorrectly read speed limit.

This can create dangerous situations, especially with high-performance cars such as the 96,000 Porsche Macan Turbo, which can go from 0-60mph in 3.3 seconds.

One Porsche Macan owner called Helen posted online: The speed sign recognition has never worked effectively (or safely) since having the car so Ive had to turn the function off.

After the last time I tried it, the car abruptly changed from 70mph to 5mph when it incorrectly read a 50mph sign. Thankfully nothing fast or heavy was behind me and I could quickly take over driving.

The 55,000 Mazda CX-60 includes technology that reads speed limit signs and alerts the driver to speed up or slow down, but owners say it is making mistakes

Volvo XC40 owners have complained that the Traffic Sign Recognition system is making potentially dangerous errors

The 96,000 Porsche Macan Turbo, which can go from 0-60mph in 3.3 seconds, can automatically speed up and slow down to match the speed limit

Mazda CX-60 owner Richard Wright, 45, from Tunbridge Wells, Kent, told the Mail: The car has a heads-up display, so all the useful driver information is projected onto the windscreen in front of you, including the speed limit. This is designed to stop you having to look down at your regular dials.

When its constantly flashing up warnings that you should be doing 80mph in a 30mph, or to slow down to 5mph in a 50mph zone, its extremely distracting.

On a few occasions, it has caused me to hit the brakes when I was driving perfectly safely and within the law. It is a real issue.

In other car forums, Fallyn Kinsella posted: Mine always does it in certain areas, mainly where the road drops to 20mph around school zones - plays mayhem with the signs.

Stephen Gauld reported seeing 80 showing while in Sainsburys car park, Chloe Byrne complained about being advised she could do 80mph in a 60mph zone, while Liz Robinson wrote: Ours does that quite often in a 30 area.

One person described almost daily issues, with speed limits being shown as 5mph, 80mph or 100mph - on roads that were actually 30, 40, 50mph.

The issue appears to have been ongoing to more than a year, with dealers apparently continuing to sell the vehicles without informing customers of the problem.

Driver assistance technology uses a mix of cameras and GPS data to read speed limit signs and display them on the dashboard. The system is supposed to help motorists stay safe by always showing the legal speed.

But the tech has proved unreliable, mistakenly reading stickers on trucks or even signs on side roads. Volkswagen has recently decided not to install it in cars in Australia, saying the feature was rushed to market by competitors and prone to errors.

Last night, Mazda UK said it is investigating the issue after being contacted by the Mail.

A spokesman said: The safety systems equipped to vehicles are additional aids for the driver, but it is the responsibility of the driver to monitor road conditions, speed and road signs while in control of the vehicle. We are currently investigating the issue raised and will report to our colleagues at Mazda Motor Corporation.

Porsche said it was working on a fix, but that dirty or unclear traffic signs can throw off the system.

A spokesman said: Owners of the Porsche Macan will soon be offered a new software package, to be installed free of charge at Porsche Centres. This integrates current system improvements and further optimises the driving experience.

Among other features, this will introduce further developments to the traffic sign recognition technology. The driver must still pay attention at all times and intervene in cases of doubt. Furthermore, the adaptive cruise control feature on the Macan is an option, and the customer can turn it off.

Volvo was contacted.
An Oklahoma inmate whose life was spared by Governor Kevin Stitt just moments before he was to receive a lethal injection on Thursday was later found unresponsive inside his cell and rushed to receive medical attention.

Guards found Tremane Wood, 46, unresponsive in his cell during a routine check hours after his sentence was commuted and after he had visited with his attorneys, said Department of Corrections spokeswoman Kay Thompson.

It was determined that dehydration and stress caused Wood's medical event, and he was stable and alert Thursday evening, prison officials said.

Wood told Thompson he was alone in his cell when he went to lie down and believes he may have rolled off his bunk after losing consciousness, according to a recorded interview with Wood released by the Department of Corrections after he was taken to a hospital.

'I didn't have all my senses,' Wood said in the recording. 'I woke up in the infirmary with my head busted and my lip busted, and that's pretty much it right there.'

Wood said he hadn't eaten anything since the previous day, and that he didn't try to harm himself.

At the end of the recording, Wood said: 'Tell Governor Stitt I said 'thank you.''

Tremane Wood, who was sentenced to die for the stabbing death of a man during a robbery in 2001. He is pictured in 2023

Wood's life was spared by Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt just moments before he was to receive a lethal injection on Thursday

Wood was waiting in a cell next to Oklahoma's death chamber Thursday morning when he learned Stitt commuted his sentence to life without parole.

Family members of the victim, who who grew up in a Hutterite religious community in Montana, supported Wood's clemency.

The governor cited their 'Christian forgiveness and love,' in a statement announcing his decision.

Wood was sentenced for fatally stabbing Ronnie Wipf, 19, during a botched robbery in 2002, but Wood maintained that the actual killer was his brother, who died serving a life sentence.

It is the second time the Republican governor has granted clemency during his nearly seven years in office.

'This action reflects the same punishment his brother received for their murder of an innocent young man and ensures a severe punishment that keeps a violent offender off the streets forever,' the governor said.

Stitt's order said Wood shall not be eligible to apply for or be considered for a commutation, pardon or parole for the rest of his life.

Stitt imposed similar conditions in 2021 after granting clemency to death row inmate Julius Jones.

Wood (pictured) was sentenced for fatally stabbing Ronnie Wipf, 19, during a botched robbery in 2002, but Wood maintained that the actual killer was his brother, who died serving a life sentence

The gurney in the the execution chamber at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester, Oklahoma

The governor rejected clemency recommendations in four other cases. A total of 16 men have been executed during Stitt's time in office.

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond was 'disappointed that the governor has granted clemency for this dangerous murderer, but respect that this was his decision to make,' he said in a statement.

Wood's attorney, Amanda Bass Castro Alves, said she and her legal team are 'profoundly grateful.'

'This decision honors the wishes of Mr. Wipfs family and the surviving victim, and we hope it allows them a measure of peace,' her statement said.

Several Republican lawmakers also had urged Stitt to grant Wood clemency.

Oklahoma's Pardon and Parole Board voted 3-2 last week to recommend that the governor grant clemency.

George Burnett, one of the original prosecutors, said he's concerned that a five-member parole board can have such a profound impact on a case that has been litigated for more than 20 years.

He also asserted that the evidence suggests Tremane Wood was the one who fatally stabbed Wipf.

The state of Oklahoma had planned to execute Tremane Wood despite his brother having already confessed and been convicted of the murder

The Oklahoma State Penitentiary, nicknamed 'Big Mac' is a prison of the Oklahoma Department of Corrections located in McAlester, Oklahoma. The prison holds more than 750 male offenders, the vast majority of which are maximum-security inmates

In addition to arguing that Wood's brother was the actual killer, Castro Alves told the panel Wood had an ineffective trial attorney who was drinking heavily at the time and who did little work on the case.

She also said trial prosecutors improperly concealed from jurors the benefits that witnesses received in exchange for their testimony.

Wood's attorneys had asked the US Supreme Court to stop the execution on these grounds, but were denied.

Prosecutors painted Wood as a dangerous criminal who continued to participate in gang activity and commit crimes while in prison, including buying and selling drugs, using contraband cellphones and ordering attacks on other inmates.

Wood, who testified to the panel via video link from the Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester, accepted responsibility for his prison misconduct and his participation in the robbery, but denied being the one who killed Wipf.

'I'm not a monster. I'm not a killer. I never was and I never have been,' Wood said.

South Carolina mass killer Steven Bryant, 44, was executed by firing squad on Friday after his last-ditch attempt to avoid the death penalty was rejected

The death row inmate's passing came on the same day as another execution was carried out in South Carolina on Friday.

Mass killer Stephen Bryant, 44, was executed by firing squad after a last-ditch attempt to avoid the death penalty was rejected by the state's Supreme Court.

Bryant was sentenced to death in 2008, four years after he killed three people during a vicious eight-day crime spree, which saw him taunt police by writing a message in his victim's blood.

Days before his execution, Bryant petitioned the South Carolina Supreme Court to stay his death penalty as he sought to blame his sickening crimes on brain damage caused by his mother drinking and doing drugs while pregnant with him.

But his fate was sealed as the court ruled that even if Bryant was found to suffer Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, it would not change his death sentence.

He became the third person in South Carolina to die by firing squad this year, a method that he chose due to issues obtaining lethal injection drugs. He also had the option to die by the electric chair.

Bryant chose the firing squad, which saw three volunteers shoot him in the heart from a distance of around 15 feet.

A prisoner is killed by a firing squad while they're strapped to a metal chair 15 feet away

The firing squad method sparked controversy earlier this year after witnesses to the execution of killer Mikal Mahdi, 42, said he suffered excruciating pain when the shooters missed his heart.

Bryant had languished on death row since 2008, when he pleaded guilty to shooting four men, three fatally, in an eight-day crime spree in 2004.

Although Bryant admitted to killing three men, his death sentence was the result of just one carried out during the spree, the murder of Willard 'TJ' Tietjen, 62, who Bryant ambushed and killed in his remote home in Sumter County.

Bryant targeted Tietjen at random, approaching his secluded home and claiming to have had car trouble before shooting him and leaving a sickening crime scene for investigators.

The then 23-year-old killer, remained in Tietjen's property for some time, ransacking his home, smoking cigarettes, using his computer, and then writing 'victim number four in two weeks, catch me if you can' in his blood.

Bryant also answered a call from Tietjen's wife and daughter while he was in the home, identifying himself as the 'prowler' and telling them that Tietjen was dead.
A Florida father hurled himself out of his moving SUV with his wife and three terrified children still inside as deputies closed in during a chaotic police chase.

The astonishing scene unfolded on Highway 79 in Washington County in northwest Florida on November 10 after a young child secretly dialed 911 to report that her parents were fighting in the car.

The domestic violence call disconnected abruptly before responders could gather more information, police said.

Minutes later, deputies spotted the family's SUV matching the child's description, but 46-year-old Albert Dale Searcy didn't stop when cops tried to pull the car over.

Officers then watched in disbelief as Searcy flung open the car door and leapt out onto the road, leaving his family hurtling down the highway without a driver in the front seat.

Searcy hit the road face-first, and his mugshot showed the father with bloodied scratches across his head.

Albert Dale Searcy, 46, seen in his mugshot after he leapt from a moving car during a police chase on Thursday night in Florida

Searcy left his wife and three children inside his car after police tried to pull him over on Highway 79 in Washington County in northwest Florida on November 10

Cops said Searcy's wife Heather (seen together) climbed into the drivers seat as the SUV continued to glide uncontrolled. Police say the outcome could have been fatal had she not taken action

Inside the SUV, Searcy's wife Heather sprang into action.

Authorities say she launched herself over the center console and seized the wheel, somehow managing to bring the vehicle to a safe stop while their three children remained strapped in the back.

A responding deputy immediately detained Searcy, who deputies said was stunned, scraped, and covered in road rash, but still able to stand.

His booking photo shows the extent of his injuries, although deputies noted he was not seriously hurt.

The family, however, showed signs of a violent struggle.

Deputies reported that Heather had 'apparent injuries to her face' consistent with a physical altercation.

She told investigators she had repeatedly begged her husband to pull over and let her and the children out, a request he allegedly ignored again and again.

She also said that when Albert realized their daughter had secretly called 911, he 'struck the child and took the phone away.'

The family had only recently returned to Washington County after a brief stay and were headed back to Louisiana when the fight broke out inside the vehicle and the phone call was made.

Albert Dale Searcy, 46, was taken to the Washington County Jail, where he remains in custody and is facing a barrage of charge

According to Heathers account, the family had only recently returned to Washington County after a brief stay and were headed back to Louisiana when the fight broke out inside the vehicle.

Emergency medical services evaluated all five family members at the scene. Heather and the children were cleared.

Albert was treated for abrasions but required no further medical care.

He was then taken to the Washington County Jail, where he remains in custody and is facing a barrage of charges including tampering with or harassing a witness, domestic violence battery, fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer, child abuse and driving while license suspended.

Investigators made clear just how close the family came to catastrophe.

Police say Heather Searcy's quick reflexes prevented what deputies described as a potentially deadly collision

Had Heather not reacted instantly, climbing into the drivers seat as the SUV continued to glide uncontrolled, the outcome could have been fatal.

Instead, the mothers quick reflexes prevented what deputies described as a potentially deadly collision.

Her decisive action kept her children alive as their father landed on the asphalt in an alleged attempt to avoid arrest.

The sheriffs office released Searcys mugshot showing his face bloodied after being bounced along the road.
Nobody is ever likely to mistake Lisa and David White's home for a child-free zone. Even if it weren't for the sound of laughter and non-stop chatter coming from inside, the bicycles strewn across the lawn are a giveaway.

Behind the front door of their four-bedroom property in Monmouth, south Wales, the hallway is a maze of junior-sized coats and trainers. With all five of the youngsters born within seven years of each other  and now ranging in age from three to ten  it is perhaps unsurprising that Ms White describes their life as 'very, very busy'.

But the daily 6am starts are less of a problem, she says, than the financial pressure.

Neither of the Whites (although they are unmarried, they share a surname after Lisa changed hers by deed poll) is working. Indeed, there hasn't been a breadwinner in the house for the past three years. Their domestic budget comes entirely from the public purse  and they are among almost 200,000 large families set to receive thousands of pounds more in state handouts amid the widely anticipated removal of the two-child benefits cap.

It comes after Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated that she didn't think it was right that children are 'penalised' for being in bigger families 'through no fault of their own'.

Her comments are seen as confirmation that the two-child limit  introduced by Conservative chancellor George Osborne in 2017  will be lifted in the Budget on November 26, a sop to the Left from the increasingly embattled Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer.

As things stand, the Whites receive benefits payments amounting to 1,935 a month.

This sum exceeds the standard child benefits limit of 1,835 a month (or 22,020 a year) because David also qualifies for a disability benefit (the Limited Capacity for Work and Work-Related Activity payment), which means normal rules don't apply.

Lisa White with her partner Dave and their 5 children: Teddie(3), Bonnie(4), Arlo (6), Marley (9) and Leila (10)

Ms White and her children. The family's domestic budget comes entirely from the public purse  and they are among almost 200,000 large families set to receive thousands of pounds more in state handouts amid the widely anticipated removal of the two-child benefits cap

On top of that, their 560 monthly rent  for a housing association property on a quiet estate  is covered.

Taken together, the Whites cost the state 29,940 a year.

For comparison, the average UK salary is just shy of 37,000, which after tax and National Insurance would leave an income of 30,159  and less still once the rent or mortgage is paid.

Meanwhile, a person on the National Living Wage (12.21 an hour for those aged 21 and under) would earn 23,809 a year for a standard 37.5-hour working week.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, 31-year-old Lisa insists having a large family 'wasn't something that I always planned'.

She says: 'Actually when I was younger, I said I'd only have about three children and I wouldn't have any before the age of 30.'

But after starting a relationship with David, now 35  their grandmothers had been best friends since childhood  she had her first child, Layla, at 21. Layla is now ten. Four more children  Marley, nine, Arlo, six, Bonnie, four, and three-year-old Teddie  swelled the family ranks over the following years.

Neither Ms White or her husband are working. Indeed, there hasn't been a breadwinner in the house for the past three years

Under the expected lifting of the two-child benefit cap, five-child families such as the Whites could be as much as 10,000 a year better off

Their circumstances changed when David was badly affected by Covid-related deaths he witnessed while working as a carer and activities co-ordinator at a home for dementia sufferers.

At the time, he had been earning 456 a week  working 48 hours for the then minimum wage rate of 9.50  although the household income was boosted by working tax credits as well as the standard child allowance.

'He just had a bit of a mental health crisis and he couldn't work any more,' says Lisa. 'He kept going for as long as he could... until 2022. I was already pregnant with our fifth child when he had to leave work. It was a really hard time for us.'

Life has been 'a lot different' ever since. With a weekly shopping bill of between 200 and 250 (including nappies for the two youngest), monthly energy charges of around 250 and the costs of running a 2009-registered Vauxhall Zafira, she says their welfare income of almost 2,000 a month 'doesn't go far'.

But she insists: 'I think there is a misconception because everyone who looks at me with five children says: 'She's obviously doing it for the benefits.'

'But we made that decision to have five children when our financial position was completely different  and we weren't relying solely on welfare to look after the kids. Dave was working and we thought we'd be OK.

'But you can't tell the future. We made the decision to have Bonnie based on the same thinking, and then Teddie, too. All of a sudden, it just changed. Now, we just have to work with what we've got.'

For her part, Ms White  who worked in the same care home as her partner before having their first child  stresses that she had always planned to return to full-time employment once the children were all at school. But that is no longer a viable option, she explains, because one of the children only attends school part-time. Dave, meanwhile, 'can't really take care of the children on his own,' she says.

Speaking about the impact that removing the cap would have on her family, Ms White told the Daily Mail: 'It would definitely make a difference to the kids. I'd be able to treat them if I wanted to. I'd be able to take them for days out.'

'I'd love to be able to go to work, but the benefits system is in place for people who can't. It would be impossible for me.'

She continues: 'I'm sure there are mums who would love to be able to stay at home with their children and watch them grow up and do everything I'm doing.

'I am grateful for what I get to do and I love being at home with the kids. But at the same time I'd love to be able to go and work and have a bit of time for myself. It would be nice to have my own identity as well.'

Asked about working families who might feel frustrated or resentful about her raising a family entirely at the taxpayers' expense, Ms White replies: 'I've been in that position as well.

'I was in the fortunate position that I could stay at home when Dave was working. I used to look at families and think, 'how do they manage when none of them work?' It was hard for me seeing that other children were getting free school meals and my kids weren't. I'd have to struggle to do their lunchboxes.

'But when you've been in the same position, you can have sympathy for those people.' She adds: 'I know plenty who are working but still struggling. The cost-of-living crisis has just put a strain on everyone. There are things that we're missing out on because Dave can't work and I can't work.'

On the subject of whether her partner will return to the workforce, she says: 'I really hope so. He doesn't want to stay at home, he wants to go back. Since he was 16, he's always worked. It's hard for him that he's had to stop. He did hold quite a lot of guilt about it.'

Ms White insists, meanwhile, that she keeps a close grip on the purse strings.

Ms White  who worked in the same care home as her partner before having their first child  stresses that she had always planned to return to full-time employment once the children were all at school. But that is no longer a viable option

Neither Lisa nor David smoke or drink  while she dyes her hair at home and hasn't visited a hairdressing salon since she was pregnant with her middle child.

Everyday shopping is done at budget retailer Lidl.

Their first-ever family holiday was a 58 off-season five-day break in a self-catering chalet in Butlin's at Minehead, Somerset, earlier this year. The one extravagance at their lived-in family home is a 60-inch television set bought on hire purchase.

Under the expected lifting of the two-child benefit cap, five-child families such as the Whites could be as much as 10,000 a year better off.

The Treasury had drafted plans to 'taper' the limit  and reduce the handouts available as the number of children increases. But under pressure from its restive backbenchers, who also sunk plans to curb welfare spending in the summer, Labour is now set to abolish the cap in full at an annual cost of 3.5billion.

Former Labour prime minister Gordon Brown, who served as chancellor for ten years, has been among the most vocal campaigners in favour of removing the cap. Under the existing situation, Universal Credit and Child Tax Credit payments  which are both means-tested  are limited to the first two children, costing families a typical 3,455 in missed benefits for each subsequent child.

Normal child benefit is not affected. Department for Work and Pensions figures indicate that about 470,000 families are affected by the policy. Of these, almost two-thirds (297,000) have three children, while a quarter (117,000) have four. Another 37,000 families have five children and 18,260 are listed as having 'six or more'.

Speaking about the impact that removing the cap would have on her family, Ms White tells the Daily Mail: 'It would definitely make a difference to the kids. I'd be able to treat them if I wanted to. I'd be able to take them for days out.'

Asked if she thinks her children live in poverty, she replies: 'It depends what you class as poverty but I don't think of my children that way. We have a roof over our heads, we have gas and electricity and I'm able to go food shopping every week.

'But if being above the poverty line means you can buy new clothes and shoes for your children whenever you like, then perhaps we fall into that category. I do have to buy second-hand for them. My definition of poverty would be to be homeless with no gas or electricity or food. My kids are warm and well fed.'

But as public finances come under huge strain  and with government data showing a sevenfold increase in people assessed as long-term sick, with many claiming to have mental or behavioural disorders  there are inevitable concerns about the benefits system being considered a bottomless pit.

While Ms White doesn't believe the powers that be 'have an obligation' to help, she adds: 'It's really nice that the support is in place for families who do need it.

'At the end of the day, the children don't choose to be here  it's us as parents who've made that decision.'

But are those parental decisions contributing to the massive pressure the country is under?

'Looking at the whole situation, it does contribute to that [pressure],' she admits.

'But this is the tiniest part of the picture. I'm sure there is a lot more contributing to it than just us seven.'
A suspected people smuggler was caught on video pretending to fall off a small boat to evade suspicion from French police.

Astonishing footage captured by Sky News during an investigation into European human smuggling gangs shows a packed dinghy preparing to leave the shores of Dunkirk with the aim of transporting dozens of migrants across the English Channel.

As the small boat begins to sail away, a man wearing a black tracksuit and cap is seen pretending to fall off the inflatable vessel, clearly not intending to travel.

The man is later seen in a separate clip being questioned by police alongside three other suspected people smugglers.

The shocking video was just one moment captured by Sky News as it went behind the scenes of Europe's people smuggling industry.

The investigation also revealed how people smuggler's, who accompany migrants in their journey to the UK, charge people around 3,000 to be transported across the Channel.

According to one London-based human trafficker, who was interviewed by Sky, said that smugglers often live out in Calais, where several migrants stay in temporary camps after reaching Europe.

He added that higher-up figures are based in countries like Poland, Germany and Belgium, where they buy boats to send over to their workers in France.

A suspected people smuggler was caught on video pretending to fall off a small boat to evade suspicion from French police

As the small boat begins to sail away, a man wearing a black tracksuit and cap is seen pretending to fall off the inflatable vessel, clearly not intending to travel

'The middle people live in 'the Jungle' all the time, and they get people ready', the smuggler said, adding that the boss figures decide when it is time for traffickers to send migrants across the Channel.

The investigation comes as Britain struggles to tackle a migration crisis, which has seen hundreds of people fleeing poverty and conflict attempting to cross the English Channel in overloaded boats run by smugglers.

The topic has becoming a political flashpoint in the UK, with tensions escalating over the housing of the tens of thousands of asylum-seekers at the expense of taxpayers.

It also comes as a total of 503 migrants crossed the English Channel last Saturday.

The latest arrivals sailed to the UK in seven small boats, with more inflatable vessels. making the crossing from France to Dover on Sunday, bringing the total number for this year so far up to 38,726.

This compares with 32,119 who made the journey by the same date last year, and 26,699 in 2023.

The arrivals in the Kent port last week come as Shabana Mahmood is due to announce a major shake-up of Britain's immigration rules in the coming weeks, with changes modelled on the Danish system.

The Home Secretary sent officials to Denmark last month to study its border control and asylum policies, which are seen as some of the toughest in Europe.

Britain has been struggling to tackle a migration crisis, which has seen hundreds of people fleeing poverty and conflict attempting to cross the English Channel in overloaded boats run by smugglers

Migrants wade into the sea to try to board smugglers' boats in an attempt to cross the English Channel off the beach of Gravelines, northern France on September 27, 2025

Its tighter rules on family reunions and restricting some refugees to a temporary stay are among the policies being looked at.

Ms Mahmood has said she wants deterrents in place to stop people seeking to enter the UK via unauthorised routes, while making it easier to remove those who are found to have no right to stay.

Sources said she was eager to meet Danish immigration minister Rasmus Stoklund as soon as possible.
Americans are demanding FBI Director Kash Patel answer for the bureau's handling of Thomas Crooks after Tucker Carlson claimed the agency lied about the would-be Trump assassin.

Patel, 45, appeared to make a last-ditch attempt at transparency on Friday when he posted a lengthy list of investigative 'facts' about Crooks, 20, who shot President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

'The investigation, conducted by over 480 FBI employees, revealed Crooks had limited online and in-person interactions, planned and conducted the attack alone, and did not leak or share his intent with anyone,' Patel wrote.

He said more than 1,000 interviews had been carried out, 2,000 public tips reviewed, and 13 digital devices seized.

His renewed openness comes after Carlson, 56, claimed the FBI 'lied' when it said Crooks had no meaningful online presence before posting what he said were Crooks' own social media entries.

The former Fox News anchor released the trove of evidence in a highly anticipated documentary on Friday morning.

'The FBI told us Thomas Crooks tried to kill Donald Trump last summer but somehow had no online footprint,' Carlson wrote on X. 'The FBI lied, and we can prove it because we have his posts. The question is why? Story Friday.'

Carlson said he received the material from an anonymous source with access to Crooks' wiped accounts. The posts allegedly show Crooks as a Trump supporter who drifted to the radical left during the pandemic.

Carlson claims the FBI concealed this and instead suggested Crooks was right-wing.

The FBI's Rapid Response account quickly replied: 'The FBI has never said Thomas Crooks had no online footprint. Ever.'

Americans angrily demand FBI Director Kash Patel answer up on the investigation into Thomas Crooks after Tucker Carlson claimed the agency lied after he did his own investigation

Comments posted by Thomas Crooks to YouTube from 2019 to 2020 show a detailed digital trail of violent threats that included calls for assassination and political violence, despite the FBI's repeated claims otherwise, according to mini-documentary released by Tucker Carlson

The FBI lied about that fact, Carlson claims, noting that Crooks has since been framed by the agency as right-wing in what little information had been released about him.

The FBI's Rapid Response X account quickly followed up with an answer, writing: 'This FBI has never said Thomas Crooks had no online footprint. Ever.'

But it seems the public has similar questions to Carlson and want the case files to be cracked open immediately.

'That's a nice set of claims you've posted on social media. Love it! Can you give us the receipts, please, so we can verify that you're telling the truth?' an X user wrote.

'Could you possibly go point-for-point with regards to Tuckers questions he lists out in the end, and if you cant answer them explicitly, at least address them in some way?' another asked.

'Why was his home sanitized and didnt even have silverware?' a third questioned.

'Can you please share more of this information with Congress and the American people? We should have access to his online posts to better understand what radicalized him. There is no ongoing trial,' an X user suggested.

Another agreed, writing: 'If true, why is the FBI not reporting their findings so the public knows? Why gatekeep the info if that's the case? There are no arrests or trials to need to keep the info hidden?'

The deep-dive investigation from the former Fox News stemmed from a tip he said he received from an anonymous source who had gained access to Crooks' wiped social media accounts

Crooks was shot dead by Secret Service after he attempted to assassinated Trump

Trump sustained an ear injury from the shooting

Patel said more than 480 FBI agents were involved in the investigation, with more than 1,000 interviews being conducted, 2,000 public tips addressed

A third wrote: 'So you'll be releasing all of those files and reports shortly, yes?'

One scathingly wrote: 'All that and Tucker still did better than you.'

In July - a year after the infamous shooting - American citizens were still left wondering what truly happened that day in Pennsylvania and demanded answers from Patel.

In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, which left Trump with a bloody ear, two men with life-altering injuries and the death of father and firefighter Corey Comperatore, investigations began into how such a deadly lapse could've occurred.

The House of Representatives launched a task force to probe the shooting, but their report, published late last year, did not focus at all on Crooks or his motive, instead it highlighted the failures of the Secret Service, which led to the disaster.

The FBI similarly began a probe, but the agency has yet to deliver a full report for interested constituents.

Americans still don't know the motive behind the shooting.

Many agreed with Carlson that there was unanswered questions the American people needed to know

When pressed on how little is known about the shooter during a May interview with Fox News' Bret Baier, Patel poured cold water on the host's question.

'I don't know that there's more to know, but you're going to know everything we know,' he responded, downplaying the existence of additional information on Crooks and his motivation.

'We take assassination attempts, especially of the president of the United States, extremely seriously,' Patel said in the interview.
Tucker Carlson's latest expose is sending shockwaves through MAGA circles after the former Fox News host suggested that Trump's failed assassin, Thomas Crooks, may be connected to a foreign terror group.

Carlson's investigative team released a 34-minute video diving into the online history of Crooks, the 20-year-old would-be assassin who shot Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania in July 2024. Crooks' bullet came within less than an inch of penetrating Trump's skull.

More than a year after the assassination attempt, the FBI has yet to release a clear motive for why Crooks tried to shoot Trump or whether he acted alone or in coordination with others.

Carlson's uncovered YouTube comments allegedly posted by Crooks from 2019-2020, revealing the shooter's long digital history of making calls for assassinations and political violence. Crooks' YouTube comments indicate he radically shifted his ideology from pro-Trump towards the far left.

During the final phase in 2020 of Crook's YouTube commenting, the shooter began interacting with a suspicious user 'Willy_Tepes' who appeared to encourage Crooks to commit political violence.

He wrote to Crooks on August 4, 2020, 'If a gun and a badge is all that is needed, then authority obviously comes from the barrel of a gun. We have more guns than they do ;)'

'There is no way we can avoid a war at this point, so you just better get used to the idea,' he added.

Carlson claims that Tepes's name is listed on a foreign Antifa website connecting him to the Nordic Resistance Movement - a neo-Nazi group based in Scandinavia which has been designated a terrorist organization by the State Department.

The deep-dive from the former Fox News stemmed from a tip he received from an anonymous source who he said gained access to Crooks' wiped social media accounts

Crooks allegedly interacted with a YouTube user who had links to a foreign terrorist organization that encouraged him to commit acts of violence

'The FBI hasn't made any mention of him in public, although they certainly know he exists. Just days after the shooting, somebody screenshotted Tepes' YouTube account page despite the fact that he has very few followers,' Carlson said.

'To the extent that he can be traced online now, you can find his username being used on a foreign Antifa website, those sites link him to the Nordic Resistance Movement ... that's all we know.'

Tepes wrote in another reply to Crooks about government efforts to seize guns from citizens.

'The more guns that are out there, the less likely a gun confiscation will be possible. Nope, guns do not guarantee a victory anymore than jet fighters, tanks and drones do. It is the fighting spirit and brains that wins.'

'We have nothing to lose and everything to win.....and the alternative, a global police state, is unacceptable. Nothing in life is simple but that is no argument against doing it :)'

Following Tepes' online interactions with Crooks, the Trump shooter's YouTube commenting ends.

Moreover, Crooks' political views seemingly shifted dramatically towards left-wing ideology around early 2020.

In January 2020, Crooks reportedly attacked Trump for his 'stupidity' in one of his YouTube comments and mocked Trump supporters for sounding like a 'cult.'

Trump nearly died when Thomas Matthew Crooks shot at him in July 2024

Crooks then reportedly called for anti-Trump supporters to conduct 'terrorism-style attacks' against the US government.

The future assassin outlined ways to 'sneak a bomb' into a government building and 'set it off before anyone sees you,' according to Carlson.

'[In my opinion] the only way to fight the [government] is with terrorism style attacks, sneak a bomb into an essential building [and] set it off before anyone sees you, track down and important people/politicians/military leaders etc and try to assassinate them. Any sort of head to head fight is suicide and ambush/surprise attacks likely aren't going to end well,' Crooks allegedly wrote on YouTube.

MAGA influencers and lawmakers reacted with shock to Carlson' latest reporting and demanded more transparency from Kash Patel's FBI regarding Crooks.

Tennessee Republican Rep. Tim Burchett claimed that Crooks was groomed by the CIA via MKUltra-style mind control programs during an interview reacting to Carlson's latest report.

'They programmed this kid. You got a kid who's got access to guns or has some simple knowledge of a firearm, he was programmed,' Burchett told conservative influencer Benny Johnson. 'The facts have been buried or burned or whoever knew is either sitting on a beach somewhere and, uh, enjoying a fruity drink or they're dead.'

Carlson said his source retrieved a never-before-seen clip from Crooks' Google Drive account that shows him dry firing a handgun in a bedroom

'When the CIA says, 'We don't have this thing,' and then their asses are brought into a court of law and they say, 'Well, we have it, but we don't use it anymore.' Apparently, somebody's using it.'

'I've said that all along,' Burchett added. 'I've said that. Look at the history. Look at where we're at in this country, the Deep State. It's disgusting. Trump's right. They're not after, they're not after him. They're after us. He's just standing in the way.'

Kash Patel, meanwhile, issued a statement indirectly responding to Carlson's reporting by claiming the Bureau collected an extensive amount of data from Crooks.

Patel does not provide any specific details into the data uncovered from the FBI investigation, nor his motive for trying to kill Trump. Furthermore, the FBI director continues to maintain that Crooks had limited online use.

'The investigation, conducted by over 480 FBI employees, revealed Crooks had limited online and in person interactions, planned and conducted the attack alone, and did not leak or share his intent to engage in the attack with anyone,' Patel wrote.
Vertigo-inducing heels. White mini-dress. Full warpaint. For someone wanted for questioning by the police back in Britain, Melissa Rein Lively couldnt have looked less like a woman keeping a low profile as she strode out, blonde hair flowing in the Arizona sunshine, from her home in an exclusive gated community.

It was almost as if she had dressed for the camera. She certainly didnt seem to care if she was photographed. If anything, the 40-year-old Maga (Make America Great Again) influencer and PR consultant appeared, well, more Maga than ever.

Hard to believe, in the circumstances, that she is wanted by the British Transport Police in connection with an incident of racially aggravated assault and abuse outside Bond Street Tube station at 7.30pm on October 11.

Detectives believe Ms Lively and her financier boyfriend Philipp Ostermann, 37, can assist their enquiries  to quote the time-honoured phrase.

The glamorous pair seem utterly out of place on the BTPs website, which features hooded youths being sought in connection with a robbery at Clapham Junction railway station and a shaven-headed individual being hunted following a sex attack on a train in the West Midlands.

And yet there among them were this gilded couple.

Behind the picture of them in the line-up  Ms Lively was wearing leather trousers on this occasion  published on the force website on Monday, is a story which is both disturbing and intriguing.

Ms Lively vied for the role of White House press secretary and founded the America First anti-woke PR firm. Ostermann, 37, is associate director of a Munich-based private equity firm called Aequita with offices in Tokyo and South Carolina.

MAGA influencer Melissa Rein Lively pictured back Stateside in Scottsdale, Arizona on Friday

The question is: are they just witnesses who have not yet come forward or the unlikeliest-ever fugitives?

The fact officers wanted to speak to two such successful, high-profile people, and the nature of the altercation itself, made the news on both sides of the Atlantic.

Pepper spray, banned in the UK under the Firearms Act because it is considered an offensive weapon which can cause temporary blindness and chronic breathing difficulties (and, on rare occasions, prove fatal), is believed to have been used in the incident.

Yet the confrontation could not have begun more innocuously  one of a number of particularly unsettling elements which characterise what happened.

A woman travelling with her sister and two young children told officers their pushchair had accidentally bumped into a woman walking ahead of them into the Tube station.

The man she was with, they said, immediately responded by hurling racial abuse at the family and squirting a bottle he said contained pepper spray in their direction  no one was hurt, thankfully  as his female companion grabbed the hair of one of the sisters.

The escalating violence is hard to comprehend; all over a buggy clipping the back of someone  an everyday occurrence on high streets all over the country. It should have passed without incident.

BTP would not confirm that the couple in the picture on the wanted list were in fact Lively and Ostermann. They were identified from that photograph by American news giant CNN and subsequently named in other media outlets.

Ms Lively and her financier boyfriend Philipp Ostermann, 37, are wanted by the British Transport Police (BTP) in connection with an incident of racially aggravated assault and abuse outside Bond Street Tube station at 7.30pm on October 11. Pictured: The image of the couple released by BTP on October 10, 2025

The force said there had been no significant updates since the image was released and declined to comment on whether the two they are so eager to question were still in the country or if any measures had been taken to stop them leaving.

We now know the answer to that question.

Today, we publish a much fuller picture of the couple whose visit to Britain coincided with Dusseldorf-born financier Mr Ostermann being listed as a speaker at a private equity conference at Syon Park, a stately home near Heathrow, last month  shortly after the fracas in the West End.

At around the same time, Ms Lively posted a picture of herself on Instagram outside Sothebys auction house, also in Bond Street, in the same outfit as the woman in the photograph. The caption read: With Love from London. The account has now been deleted.

Up until their trip to the UK, the couple are thought to have been in Germany where Mr Ostermann, whose CV includes spells at blue-chip accountancy firms KPMG (in Berlin) and PwC (Frankfurt), is based and where Ms Lively was PR for one of his most recent corporate ventures.

But our information  from an authoritative source  was that Melissa Rein Lively arrived back at her home on Thursday night. It is in upmarket Scottsdale, a city near Phoenix, the state capital of Arizona where she used to live with her husband Jared. They are separated, not divorced.

The Bond Street incident is but the latest episode in her colourful  and at times controversial  past.

I have nothing good to say about her, someone who knew her well told the Daily Mail. Shes a total loose cannon. It was just a matter of time before she did something else thats crazy.

Melissa Rein Lively grew up in a Jewish family scarred by Holocaust trauma.

Her grandmother Frieda Reinstein survived Bergen-Belsen, Buchenwald and the death marches in the 1940s, but 96 per cent of her relatives were murdered and only a few cousins survived.

Her grandfather Alex Reinstein was also a survivor of the Nazis, meeting Frieda in a displaced persons camp in Germany.

Her father Solomon later changed the family surname from Reinstein to Rein to escape anti-Semitism, before tragically dying in a freak accident eight years after her mother Randee died from an overdose when Melissa was 14.

Ms Liveley (pictured in front of a painting of Donald Trump) is understood to have been first linked with Mr Ostermann, an international business graduate from Maastricht University with an impressive track record in finance, in July this year when they worked together for a company producing electric minibuses

By the early 2000s, Lively was married to Jared, living in Scottsdale and running a flourishing PR and marketing agency.

She is known in the US as a Maga influencer and has what is known as a Mar-a-Lago face beloved of certain Republican women  blonde hair, gleaming white teeth, heavy make-up and dermal fillers.

By absolutely nobodys volition other than my own, do I spend two hours in the gym every day, get my hair done every three and a half weeks on the button, get my nails done, get my eyebrows done, get my skincare done, get Botox, she told the AFP news agency in a recent interview.

She moved into Breakers Hotel in Florida to be near Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort to conduct her campaign to be the White House press secretary and attended the election night party at Mar-a-Lago last November. Nigel Farage was a guest.

Her tilt for the key job won the attention of several major news organisations and an endorsement from a former national security adviser at the Oval Office.

In the end, she lost out to Karoline Leavitt, who still holds the position.

Her public relations company America First (Americas No 1 Anti-Woke PR Firm) was launched in 2022 and, in the words of the marketing blurb, represents candidates, personalities and companies who think on the right side of things and are unapologetically patriots.

So much for the colour but, aside from recent events, what of the controversy?

In 2019, a feud with the co-founders of a PR company she used to work for ended with two restraining orders being issued against Ms Lively after she was accused of mounting a campaign of harassment against the two executives on public forums.

In one incident, she taped a ranting phone call with one of them and posted the full audio recording on YouTube.

Youre a mean person, and you run with a mean crew, she is heard saying, an article in the Phoenix New Times newspaper revealed.

One of the stipulations of the restraining orders was that she stay away from the homes of her former bosses.

Ms Lively, inquiries in the US have established, was also removed by police from several resort hotels, for among other things, using racial slurs towards guests. Remember, the family on Bond Street said they were racially abused.

Not long after the report in the Phoenix News Times, Ms Lively was in trouble again.

This time, she filmed herself trashing Covid masks from a Target store in Scottsdale at the start of the pandemic. The footage went viral.

She would later say she had been brainwashed by the sinister QAnon conspiracy movement which believes that a cabal of child-trafficking paedophiles  including Hollywood A-listers, leading philanthropists and politicians  secretly rule the world.

Among their many other dangerously fabricated claims, is that coronavirus did not exist or was not fatal.

Ms Livelys involvement with QAnon contributed to the break-up of her long-standing marriage. Indeed, within days of the Target affair, her realtor husband called the police when she came back to the marital home, concerned for her well-being because of her irrational behaviour.

Ms Lively livestreamed that, too. So she is well known  perhaps infamous would be more accurate  back in the US.

She is understood to have been first linked with Mr Ostermann, an international business graduate from Maastricht University with an impressive track record in finance, in July this year when they worked together for a company producing electric minibuses.

They could be seen embracing each other in various exotic locations on social media before their accounts were closed after of the Bond Street incident.

The question remains: are Melissa Rein Lively and Philipp Ostermann simply witnesses who are clearly in no hurry to contact the police  or on the run?

Both Ms Lively and Mr Ostermann have been approached for comment.
Killer mom Susan Smith, who infamously drowned her two young sons in a South Carolina lake in 1994, has made astonishing claims to male suitors about why she believes she was denied parole last year.

'I didn't cry enough,' she told one man earlier this year. 'They look for remorse and emotion and I guess I just didn't show enough.'

'I'll be better prepared next time,' she added.

The Daily Mail has obtained transcripts of hundreds of voice and text messages that Smith has traded with men while she serves her life sentence at Leath Correctional Institution in Greenwood, South Carolina.

On average, Smith sends and receives 15 to 20 texts a day, and spends hours talking on the phone to lovelorn men who engage in romantic and sexual banter with her. The men range in age from 27 to their mid 60s.

'I know that I'm where God wants me now,' she told another man. 'But I believe with all my heart that I will be released in two years.'

Susan Smith is incarcerated at Leath Correctional Facility, where she is serving a life sentence

Smith drowned her two young sons in a South Carolina lake in 1994

Smith texted both men after her unsuccessful parole hearing in November 2024, when the board unanimously voted to deny her request. In the hearing, Smith acknowledged her crime.

'I know what I did was horrible,' she said quietly with a wavering voice. 'I would give anything so I could change it.'

She then added: 'God is a big part of my life. He has forgiven me, and I ask that you show that kind of mercy, as well.'

But her ex-husband, David Smith, pleaded with the parole board to keep Smith in jail.

'It's just not enough,' he said through his tears. "I'm asking that you please, please deny her parole today and hopefully in the future, but specifically today.'

After the hearing, he told reporters that he would attend each parole hearing in the future to ensure that she remained behind bars.

Under South Carolina law, Smith must wait two years between parole hearings. She will be able to make another bid for freedom next year.

But away from the parole board, Smith does not appear as contrite.

'They were never going to let me out,' she told the first man in a text. 'That decision was made before I ever went in front of them. It was tilted against me.'

Another former suitor - an airline employee from Michigan who corresponded with Smith for nearly two years between 2023 and 2024 - told the Daily Mail he is unsurprised that Smith spoke so callously about her parole hearing.

'She is so good at telling everyone what they want to hear,' he said. 'If I wanted to talk about God, she'd talk about God. If I wanted to talk about sex, she'd talk about sex. But one thing that we never talked about was those two boys. She just didn't talk about them at all.'

'She said all the right things, but then I saw that she was talking to all these other guys,' he added. 'And that was my deal breaker. I backed away. She will say whatever she wants to say, to whoever can help her. Doesn't care who she hurts.'

Smith wiped away tears during her parole hearing, but later claimed she did not cry enough

After the boys went missing in 1994, Susan and David Smith spoke to reporters, pleading for their sons' return

Michael and Alex Smith drowned in 1994 because Smith didn't want to have children anymore

A makeshift memorial was erected after the boys' bodies were found

Smith was a 22-year-old married mother living in Union, South Carolina in 1994 when she became internationally infamous for drowning her two sons - Michael, three, and 14-month-old Alex - in a lake near her home

According to court records, she had started an affair with Tom Findlay, the son of her boss at Conso Products - a home decor trim company.

But after Smith kissed and fondled another man during a 1994 naked hot tub party, Findlay, now 56, dumped her - and told her in a letter that he didn't want to be with a woman with children.

'Susan, I could really fall for you,' Findlay wrote. 'You have so many endearing qualities about you, and I think that you are a terrific person.'

'But like I have told you before, there are some things about you that aren't suited for me, and yes, I am speaking about your children.'

'I'm sure that your kids are good kids, but it really wouldn't matter how good they may be... the fact is, I just don't want children.'

A week later, a furious and despondent Smith let her burgundy Mazda roll down a boat ramp into John D. Long Lake with her two sons still strapped into their car seats. She stood on the side of the lake and watched the car sink to the bottom as the boys cried.

After the brothers drowned, Smith falsely told police that a black man had carjacked her, leading to an exhaustive search in which cops went door to door of black residents in the area, interrogating hundreds of innocent men.

For nine days Smith and her husband David made tearful appearances on TV begging the supposed kidnapper to return their boys before she finally confessed to killing them. Authorities dragged her vehicle from the lake with the two boys' lifeless bodies still strapped in their car seats.

Smith was convicted on two counts of first-degree murder. The jury rejected the death penalty and she was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole in 30 years.

But Smith, now 54, is convinced that she will someday be free.

'I will get out of here,' she told a friend over the summer. 'I am not going to die in prison. I believe that will all my heart.'
When Sydneysider Mariam Stevenson started her own business, she didn't expect it would expose a harsh truth about Australia's 'fake' and 'transactional' society.

The young business owner took to TikTok to share her take on the current state of relationships and lack of community feel across Australia.

'We have a real problem here in Australia and that is we don't have a real sense of community here,' Ms Stevenson said.

'I don't know if it's just a Sydney thing but I feel like communities, or society as whole, has become very transactional, quite superficial, and there's so much of that one up culture.'

Ms Stevenson told Daily Mail how she initially didn't feel supported by her community after starting her gut health supplement business Nueday Wellness.

'I founded my business and naturally, having to put myself out there more through social media was when I started to realise there's such a disconnect to being online compared to actually getting out in the community and meeting people,' she said.

'Tall Poppy Syndrome became clearer when I started the business and did something different. It's really fuelled in our society. It's disappointing that we don't have a community that feels supportive of one another.'

Ms Stevenson said she was disappointed with how many relationships were now 'transactional', where interactions are based on a 'give and take' dynamic, with each person expecting a clear benefit from the interaction.

Mariam Stevenson asked why the community felt 'transactional' in Australia these days

Do Australians in big cities value friendships as much in a more competitive world?

She said many Aussies were now prioritising independence over investing in others.

'It's a bit like "what's in it for me". If I'm spending time with you, it's like, "what do I get out of it",' she said.

'There will be people that reach out to me that want to hang out with me now because there's something in it for them, like getting free advice from me now that I've started a business.

'Time is money and everyone is taking on that mindset. If I'm spending time with you, I have to get something out of it which makes it hard to create genuine relationships.'

Aussies were divided by Ms Stevenson's take on modern-day relationships.

'Definitely feel it. Hard to be authentic when things are transactional,' one wrote.

'I think a lot of people are craving community that social media offers without the addiction. There are people out there like me and my friends trying to create real connections and do creative things together in real life too,' another said.

'No one can become part of your community if they are your competition, and everyone is your competitor if resources are scarce (housing, cost of living etc),' a third commented.

Mariam Stevenson said starting her own business this year made her think Australian relationships were becoming 'transactional'

One said relationships in the cities were different to those formed in country towns.

'Go to rural towns, with populations less than 3,000, and you'll almost instantly feel that sense of community that the urban areas lack,' they wrote.

Ms Stevenson agreed that small towns were less competitive.

'I think regional communities have held on to those values and they don't have to be better than others,' she said.

'There's so much competition in the big cities and we're all competing against each other in some sort of way.'
In the winter of 1777, legend goes that George Washington received a vision that has haunted America for over two centuries.

An angelic figure appeared to him at Valley Forge, prophesying three great trials the young nation would face. The first two have been fulfilled - the Revolution that birthed the country, and the Civil War that nearly tore it apart.

But the third prophecy spoke of something yet to come: 'hordes of armed men' carried over the sea to invade America.

Now as Donald Trump masses the largest fighting force in the Caribbean since the Cold War, fears are mounting that Washington's doomsday vision may come to pass.

Ryan Bledsoe, whose podcast focuses on supernatural phenomena, reminded his viewers of Washington's foretelling this week, adding that top military officials had brought it to his attention.

'George Washington was visited by the lady. This is a text you can read about in the Library of Congress. This is a real event,' Bledsoe said.

He said Washington's third vision includes 'a threat of war in a future time that would be so great with powers from the east crossing the sea.'

At least seven American warships are currently stationed in the Caribbean, and on Thursday, Defense Secretary Hegseth announced the United States' latest effort against narco-terrorists in South America with 'Operation Southern Spear.'

And for a second straight day, Trump and his defense and national security teams met in at the White House to go over their options for potential strikes on Venezuela.

President Donald J. Trump led a Cabinet meeting in the Cabinet Room of the White House on April 10

In the winter of 1777, legend goes that George Washington received a vision that has haunted America for over two centuries

The US has killed 75 suspected drug terrorists since the Pentagon began focusing on the region since Trump took back the White House.

Trump, Hegseth, Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State and National Security Advisor Marco Rubio, Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller and and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan 'Raizin' Caine sat in on the powwow, The Washington Post reported.

The defense secretary made the announcement of 'Operation Southern Spear' on social media Thursday, after it was revealed the US has killed 75 suspected drug terrorists since the Pentagon began focusing on the region.

'President Trump ordered action  and the Department of War is delivering. Today, I'm announcing Operation SOUTHERN SPEAR,' Hegseth wrote.

'Led by Joint Task Force Southern Spear and @SOUTHCOM, this mission defends our Homeland, removes narco-terrorists from our Hemisphere, and secures our Homeland from the drugs that are killing our people.

'The Western Hemisphere is America's neighborhood  and we will protect it.'

The Daily Mail has reached out to the White House for comment.

Earlier this week, Rubio made a robust defense of the strikes after France's foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot said they were in violation of international law.

The US has killed 75 suspected drug terrorists since the Pentagon began focusing on the region

'We have observed with concern the military operations in the Caribbean region, because they violate international law and because France has a presence in this region through its overseas territories, where more than a million of our compatriots reside,' Barrot said on the sidelines of the Group of Seven foreign ministers' summit in Canada.

'I don't think that the European Union gets to determine what international law is. They certainly don't get to determine is how the United States defends its national security,' Rubio responded at the same summit.

'The United States is under attack from organized criminal narco-terrorists in our hemisphere, and the president is responding in the defense of our country.'

Rubio called out the EU's hypocrisy for asking the US for weapons but wanting a say in how America uses its own arsenal.

'I do find it interesting that all these countries want us to send and supply, for example, nuclear-capable Tomahawk missiles to defend Europe,' Rubio added.

'But when the United States positions aircraft carriers in our hemisphere, where we live, somehow, that's a problem.'

The Trump administration says the military has killed at least 75 people in 19 known strikes against what it says are drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean since early September.

Two strikes were conducted under the president's orders on Sunday, killing six.

The defense secretary made the announcement of 'Operation Southern Spear' on social media Thursday

US intelligence discovered the vessels were 'associated with illicit narcotics smuggling,' according to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who announced the operation on social media Monday.

He claimed both vessels were carrying narcotics but did not specify the exact drugs or location in the Eastern Pacific Ocean where the strike took place.

The cabinet secretary added: 'Both strikes were conducted in international waters and three male narco-terrorists were aboard each vessel. All six were killed. No US forces were harmed.'

Since starting his second term, Trump has applied more military pressure on Venezuela by accusing the socialist regime of trafficking drugs into the United States.

Trump has also labeled the largest drug cartels in Mexico as terrorist organizations.

'Under President Trump, we are protecting the homeland and killing these cartel terrorists who wish to harm our country and its people,' Hegseth concluded.

The administration has been under pressure from Congress to provide more information about who is being targeted and the legal justification for the strikes.

Critics have claimed that the Trump administration's targeted strikes on drug smugglers represent extrajudicial killings.

The Pentagon has yet to release concrete evidence to the public that the vessels were carrying narcotics or posed a threat to the US.

Trump has justified the attacks as a necessary escalation to stem the flow of drugs into the United States.

He has asserted America is engaged in an 'armed conflict' with drug cartels, relying on the same legal authority used by the Bush administration when it declared a war on terrorism after the September 11 attacks.

Senate Democrats have expressed doubts over the legality of the strikes, and last week renewed their request for more information about the strikes in a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and Hegseth.

'We also request that you provide all legal opinions related to these strikes and a list of the groups or other entities the President has deemed targetable,' the senators wrote.

A White House spokesman claimed Trump has a mandate from the American public to take decisive action against cartels.
The BBC was braced for a backlash from Donald Trump tonight as its chairman warned staff of challenging circumstances.

Samir Shah said it had been a difficult week as Corporation chiefs waited for an expected blast from the US President after it refused to meet all of his demands in the wake of the row over an edited speech.

Mr Trump set a deadline of Friday night (November 14) for a full retraction, grovelling apology and offer of compensation  or he would sue for $1billion (760million) over a misleading edit of his speech before the Capitol riot.

Corporation chiefs opted to defy the challenge, issuing an apology on Thursday night for the edit shown on its Panorama programme  but refusing to concede Mr Trump had a legal right to damages.

Editors produced a clip of Mr Trump exhorting supporters on January 6, 2021, to walk down to the Capitol with him and fight like hell  but they had spliced together two statements he made about an hour apart. Insiders said they were expecting a fierce response from the President.

In a letter to BBC staff today, seen by the Daily Mail, Mr Shah said he had written to President Trump personally to extend my apology but that while the BBC sincerely regrets the manner in which the video clip was edited, we strongly disagree there is a basis for a defamation claim.

Mr Shah thanked staff for their resilience in what I fully appreciate have been challenging circumstances.

The BBC has admitted that our edit unintentionally created the impression that we were showing a single continuous section of the speech... and that this gave the mistaken impression that President Trump had made a direct call for violent action.

Mr Trump set a deadline of Friday night for a full retraction, grovelling apology and offer of compensation  or he would sue for $1billion (760million) over a misleading edit of his speech before the Capitol riot

The BBC director-general Tim Davie and Deborah Turness, the head of BBC News, both fell on their swords on Sunday.

Earlier this week, Mr Trump remarked: I guess I have to [sue]. Why not? They defrauded the public and theyve admitted it. This is within one of our great allies, supposedly our great ally. Thats a pretty sad event.

They actually changed my January 6 speech, which was a beautiful speech, which was a very calming speech, and they made it sound radical.

Mr Trump told Fox News he would be left with no alternative but to enforce his legal and equitable rights... including by filing legal action for no less than $1,000,000,000 in damages, if the BBC failed to act.

The BBCs legal team sent Mr Trump a letter setting out five reasons why it does not think it has a case to answer, including the fact the documentary was restricted to viewers in the UK, did not cause Mr Trump any harm  as he was re-elected  and was not designed to mislead, but just to shorten a long speech.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy told BBC Radio 4s Today programme that the Corporations editorial standards and guidelines were in some cases not robust enough and in other cases not consistently applied.

Ms Nandy also hinted she could block political appointees from the BBCs board as she was asked whether Sir Robbie Gibb, a board member and Theresa Mays ex-communications director, had overstepped his remit.

Unions and MPs have demanded Sir Robbies removal after he was blamed for the report that raised concerns about the editing of Mr Trumps speech. Ms Nandy said the perception of political influence was a problem she would examine at the next charter review.
Jeremy Corbyns new political party descended further into farce yesterday as one of its six MPs hit out at persistent infighting and veiled prejudice against Muslim men.

Independent MP Adnan Hussain said he was withdrawing from the steering process for Your Party, barely two weeks before the new platforms founding conference in Liverpool.

The Blackburn MP said he had initially agreed to support the foundation because he believed in building a political home with mass appeal and a force capable of challenging the rise of far-right rhetoric.

But in a statement published on X, he said he had been disillusioned by persistent infighting, factional competition, and a struggle for power, position and influence rather than a shared commitment to the common good.

Mr Hussain said he had also been deeply troubled by the way certain figures within the new party had been treated, particularly Muslim men.

He said: At times, the rhetoric used has been disturbingly similar to the very political forces the left claims to oppose.

I witnessed insinuations about capability, dismissive attitudes and language that carried, at the very least, veiled prejudice.

Mr Hussains withdrawal leaves five MPs working to set up Your Party - former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, ex-Labour MP Zarah Sultana and Independent MPs Shockat Adam, Ayoub Khan and Iqbal Mohamed.

Jeremy Corbyn's (pictured) new party has been marred by internal division following a dispute between Mr Corbyn and Ms Sultana that resulted in a botched membership launch, threats of legal action and hundreds of thousands of pounds in withheld donations

Independent MP Adnan Hussain (pictured) said he was withdrawing from the steering process for Your Party, barely two weeks before the new platforms founding conference in Liverpool

The party is due to hold its founding conference in Liverpool on November 29 and 30, when it will choose its formal name.

But its foundation has been marred by internal division, with a dispute between Mr Corbyn and Ms Sultana resulting in a botched membership launch, threats of legal action and hundreds of thousands of pounds in withheld donations.

On Thursday, just as Ms Sultana was about to appear live on BBCs Question Time, the five other MPs put out a statement saying they were still attempting to recover money donated by supporters when Ms Sultana promoted a new membership portal that was later disowned as unauthorised.

They said a small portion of the funds had been transferred to the official Your Party, but added this was insufficient and demanded the immediate transfer of all the money that was donated by supporters to get a new party off the ground.

In his statement, Mr Hussain said he did not anticipate becoming drawn into very serious and damaging internal disputes on matters relating to organisational conduct and governance.

He added that he would remain a member of the Independent Alliance of MPs and said he hoped Your Party would be ultimately able to become what it initially promised.
There was a time when Chancellors of the Exchequer believed the Budget was such an important and economically sensitive event that they and their team would go into purdah for several weeks beforehand.

The logic of this secrecy was plain. Leaks and speculation  especially when officially sanctioned  can have hugely damaging effects on markets and panic individuals into making bad financial decisions.

One previous Labour Chancellor, Hugh Dalton, had to resign after briefing a journalist about what his forthcoming budget might contain. His boss, Clement Attlee, took a dim view. Its dangerous to play party politics with the Budget, he said. It opens the way to every kind of stunt.

How times have changed. One can only imagine what the Labour luminary would have thought of the stream of Budget leaks and counter-leaks emanating from the Treasury in recent weeks.

They have been gushing like water from a broken tap. Westminster insiders call it pitch-rolling, throwing out theoretical policies to see how they land.

But this irresponsible game-playing by Rachel Reeves and the preposterous coterie of political pygmies around her has human consequences  all of them bad and some irreversible. She is toying with lives and livelihoods.

To cite one disgraceful example, the Chancellors aides let it be known she was considering drastically reducing the maximum tax-free sum people can take from their pension fund after the age of 55.

As a result, anxious savers have rushed in droves to take their lump sum early, which means that part of their fund will cease to grow and could leave them with a serious shortfall in old age.

For weeks, Chancellor Rachel Reeves (pictured) and her ministers have been overtly softening the country up for an income tax hike, in breach of a key manifesto promise

Five days ago, Treasury sources ruled out making changes to the tax-free limit. They could easily have done that months ago but chose not to.

Ms Reeves herself could have assuaged fears by dismissing it in her pre-Budget speech last week. That she waited this long was callous and cruel, as those savers cant now put the money back.

Her latest howler is a shock U-turn on income tax. For weeks, she and her ministers have been overtly softening the country up for an income tax hike, in breach of a key manifesto promise.

Yesterday, after much disquiet within the party, the Chancellor let it be known she would not be raising income tax after all. Government borrowing rates, already sky-high, climbed further at this reversal for two reasons.

First, they dont know how she now plans to fill the financial black hole she has dug for herself and are worried that more ruinous borrowing and a smorgasbord of growth-crushing taxes elsewhere will send the economy into tailspin.

Second, they realise Ms Reeves is not in control. She is being buffeted by the whims and grandstanding of Labours activist Left-wing MPs, most of whom have never had to make a living in the real world and have no conception of why fiscal prudence matters.

They have thwarted even modest attempts to trim welfare spending, and it seems certain they will bully Ms Reeves into lifting the two-child benefit cap, costing yet more money the country cant afford.

The truth is that this Chancellor is weak, rudderless and devoid of any coherent vision for reviving the economy. And whatever horrors she delivers in this omnishambles Budget, you can bet it will be the hard-pressed families of Middle Britain who continue to suffer most.
Chilling 911 audio captured the chaotic moments after a Christian ministry CEO and his daughter fatally crashed their plane into a South Florida lake.

The catastrophic crash on Monday morning in Coral Springs sent debris flying just steps from family homes, as stunned neighbors looked on helplessly.

The private Beechcraft King Air, piloted by 53-year-old Alexander Wurm with his 22-year-old daughter Serena beside him, spiraled into the water minutes after takeoff on, leaving residents of the small Florida community screaming for help.

Following the crash, which was powerful enough to shake houses, residents reported smelling aviation fuel smells and noticing what appeared to be human remains scattered near the crash zone.

Wurm, the founder of the faith-based organization Ignite the Fire Ministry, had been making repeated trips to the Caribbean to deliver aid to communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa.

The pair had departed Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport and were headed for Montego Bay, Jamaica, when the plane suddenly lost altitude and nosedived behind homes in the Windsor Bay neighborhood.

One jarring recording came from a woman inside a home the plane nearly struck as it tore through trees and shredded part of a backyard fence before exploding into the lake.

'Holy s*** A plane crashed into my house,' she shouted to the dispatcher. 'Somebody needs to come, there's a lot of fuel I smell outside.'

Christian ministry CEO Alexander Wurm, 53, and his daughter, Serena, 22, were identified as the victims of a deadly plane crash in Florida on Monday

The moment the plane smashed into a pond and shattered into debris is seen in video footage

The dispatcher urged her to evacuate immediately.

'I gotta go, I gotta get my parents out,' the terrified resident replied before hanging up.

Other calls came from residents who saw the plane's final moments as it plummeted downward, vanished below the tree line and disappeared into the water following an almighty splash.

'I just see bubbles they're gone,' one woman reported. 'They didn't make it.'

Another caller screamed, 'It shook the whole house.'

In one haunting call, a woman described stumbling onto something horrifying near the crash site.

'I think I was passing maybe body parts on the street,' she said, telling people nearby, 'Guys, don't touch that, leave that where it is.'

She added, 'There seems to be a body part of some sort and I can't identify it. We were so scared and traumatized.'

Footage showed the plane plummeting out of the sky. The father and daughter were on their way to deliver aid to the victims of Hurricane Melissa when they crashed

Fire and rescue crews at the small pond in Coral Springs, Florida, after the crash on Monday

A Miami radar air traffic controller also dialed 911, explaining the crew had vanished from his screen.

'We were just talking to the aircraft and then we lost communication with them We lost radar,' he told the dispatcher.

'We saw them descending and then they were gone. We assume they either crashed or landed.'

Within minutes, rescue crews confirmed the worst.

Wurm and his daughter Serena were on a humanitarian flight and part of a string of missions the pair had undertaken in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.

His ministry said the fatherdaughter duo were en route to deliver aid to the stricken island of Jamaica when the King Air went down.

Ignite The Fire Ministry said Wurm was 'dedicated to empowering youth through missions and evangelism across the Caribbean,' and that 'their final journey embodied selflessness and courage, reminding us of the power of service and love.

'Throughout his life, Alex travelled extensively,' the group wrote in a tribute. 'His legacy of faith and compassion touched countless lives.'

A plane wheel pictured at the site where Wurm and his daughter's jet crashed

Wurm was the founder of the Ignite the Fire ministry, which said he was 'dedicated to empowering youth through missions and evangelism across the Caribbean'

The ministry described Serena as a young woman who had grown into her father's work: 'A beacon of empathy and hope, inspiring all with her commitment to humanitarian work.'

Just days before the crash, Wurm had already completed another emergency trip providing solar panels, tarps, a Starlink system, and other supplies to groups operating in Jamaica.

In a social media post at the time, relief organization Crisis International described his help was 'huge.'

In a video statement reacting to the news of his death, founder Sean Malone said Wurm had been 'absolutely amazing' during recovery operations and that when he didn't land in Jamaica as expected this time, they knew something was wrong.

'Unfortunately we found out he crashed his aircraft in Coral Springs, Florida, and he and his daughter did not survive,' Malone said. 'We are in absolute shock and disbelief of the situation.'

The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating what caused the catastrophic descent.

No distress call had been received before impact, and officials have not yet said whether the aircraft experienced mechanical failure, engine trouble, or loss of control.
From the morning brew to an evening cuppa, tea is part of the daily routine for many Britons  so much so that we get through 62,046 cups in our lifetimes, research has found.

And yet the habit will only cost us 6,622 if we drink a typical 2.1 cups a day over the an average lifespan of 81 years.

Milk is the most expensive element of a good brew, costing 12p a day, or 43.80 a year. Thats 3,548 over a lifetime.

Meanwhile, teabags cost about 4p each, which comes to 8.4p a day. That will set you back 30.66 a year, or a total of 2,483 over 81 years.

Electricity to boil the kettle costs 2p a day, which equates to 7.30 each year, and 591 over eight decades.

These give a total spend on tea of 6,622, which works out at a cuppa costing just under 11p a time.

Clare Roundacre, 44, of St Albans, Hertfordshire, said paying 6,622 for 62,046 for a lifetime of tea-drinking was a bargain.

She said: Having a cup of tea first thing in the morning is one of lifes great pleasures, and so is having one with a biscuit while watching the telly.

Drinking a cup of tea will only cost us 6,622 if we drink a typical 2.1 cups a day over the an average lifespan of 81 years

Im no coffee fan and I hate fizzy juice, and I dont drink alcohol, so a cup of tea is very, very important to me  and it barely costs me a thing.

Bosses at Uswitch, which conducted the study, found we boil our kettles for around 108 seconds to make ourselves our 2.1 daily cups of tea.

Over a year that works out at 10 hours 57 minutes and over a lifetime 887 hours  or just under 37 days.

A spokesman for Uswitch said: Make sure you only put in the amount of water you need, as heating excess water can waste a lot of electricity.
Donald Trump said he will sue the BBC as he blasted the broadcaster for its editing of a speech he made in 2021 on the day his supporters overran the Capitol.

The British Broadcasting Corporation sent a personal apology to the US President on Thursday but said there was no legal basis for him to sue the public broadcaster over a documentary his lawyers called defamatory.

After the BBC refused the total capitulation demanded by the US President, Trump told GB News that he had an 'obligation' to take legal action in a fiery interview.

'I'm not looking to get into lawsuits, but I think I have an obligation to do it. This was so egregious', he told GB News' Bev Turner.

'If you don't do it, you don't stop it from happening again with other people'.

Trump also confirmed to journalists outside the White House on Friday that he planned to formally seek damages, saying: 'We'll sue them from anywhere between $1 billion and $5 billion, probably sometime next week.

'I think I have to do it,' he added.

The President had thrown down the gauntlet to the broadcaster with a deadline of 10pm on Friday.

Donald Trump said he will sue the BBC as he blasted the broadcaster with a fiery rebuke to its apology last night

In a scathing letter, the President's lawyers demanded by Friday night a full retraction, immediate apology and an offer of compensation from the BBC over the 'fabricated depiction' of Donald Trump on Panorama

He had vowed to sue unless he got a full retraction, grovelling apology and offer of compensation for misleading Panorama viewers with an edit of his speech before the January 6 Capitol riot.

The BBC apologised but said it refused to pay financial compensation.

The corporation said the splicing of the speech was an 'error of judgment' but rejected his compensation demands.

Chairman Samir Shah has sent a personal letter to the White House to apologise for the editing, and lawyers for the corporation have written to the president's legal team, a BBC spokesperson said.

The spokesperson added: 'While the BBC sincerely regrets the manner in which the video clip was edited, we strongly disagree there is a basis for a defamation claim.'

Trump's remarks on the BBC on Friday came as he told GB News that London Mayor Sadiq Khan a 'terrible, terrible mayor'.

He went on to say that Mr Khan 'is a disaster' and 'a nasty person', before making unsubstantiated claims that the British capital has areas where 'the police won't go' and where Sharia Law is being exercised.

Mr Trump's explosive interview with GB News comes after the BBC defiantly refused to concede Mr Trump had a legal right to damages. Insiders said they were expecting a fierce rection from the President.

Director-general Tim Davie quit the BBC on Sunday after five years in the corporation's top job

In a letter to BBC staff yesterday, seen by the Daily Mail, chairman Samir Shah acknowledged what 'I fully understand has been a difficult week', adding: 'I'm aware there is sadness, anger and frustration in relation to what has happened in recent days and it is hard when the BBC is the focus of so much attention and news headlines.'

He said he had written to President Trump 'personally to extend my apology' but that 'while the BBC sincerely regrets the manner in which the video clip was edited, we strongly disagree there is a basis for a defamation claim'. Mr Shah thanked staff for their resilience in what 'I fully appreciate have been challenging circumstances'.

The BBC had admitted 'that our edit unintentionally created the impression that we were showing a single continuous section of the speech, rather than excerpts from different points in the speech, and that this gave the mistaken impression that President Trump had made a direct call for violent action.'

Amid catastrophic consequences for the corporation, Director General Tim Davie and Deborah Turness, the head of BBC News, both fell on their swords on Sunday.

Earlier this week, Mr Trump remarked: 'I guess I have to [sue]. Why not? They defrauded the public and they've admitted it. This is within one of our great allies, supposedly our great ally. That's a pretty sad event. They actually changed my January 6 speech, which was a beautiful speech, which was a very calming speech, and they made it sound radical.'

He also told Fox News on Tuesday: 'I think I have an obligation to [sue] because you can't allow people to do that.'

BBC chairman Samir Shah (above) admitted to an 'error of judgment' over the editing but rejected claims of systemic bias and stopped short of issuing a direct apology to Mr Trump

Mr Trump said he would be 'left with no alternative but to enforce his legal and equitable rights... including by filing legal action for no less than 1,000,000,000 dollars [760million] in damages,' if the BBC failed to act.

Trump told GB News he has had 'a lot of success' litigating against news organisations.

'Because it's fake news,' he said. 'But I've never had anything so fake as the BBC.

'I've been doing this for a long time, I've never seen anything like (the BBC edit). That's, that's the most egregious.

'I think that was worse than the Kamala (Harris) thing with CBS and 60 Minutes.'

In July, US media giant Paramount agreed to pay Mr Trump 16 million dollars (13.5 million) to settle a lawsuit over a 2024 CBS interview with Ms Harris, the former vice-president and 2024 Democratic presidential nominee.

Mr Trump said his administration would be 'finding out a lot of things over the next few months' through litigation.

He said the lawsuit would 'probably' be filed 'someplace in the US', but said that litigation in the UK 'moves a little bit quickly'.

He added that he would be speaking to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer over the weekend.

When asked about Mr Trump's legal threats, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters the corporation is a 'Leftist propaganda machine'.

As licence fee payers faced the prospect of a costly legal battle, the BBC's legal team sent Mr Trump a letter setting out five reasons why it does not think it has a case to answer.

It said the documentary was restricted to viewers in the UK, did not cause Mr Trump any harm - as he was re-elected shortly after  and 'was not designed to mislead, but just to shorten a long speech'.

Fourthly, it said the clip was 12 seconds within an hour-long programme, which also contained voices in support of Trump, and finally , an opinion on a matter of public concern and political speech is heavily protected under defamation laws in the US.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy told BBC Radio 4's Today programme the corporation's editorial standards and guidelines were 'in some cases not robust enough and in other cases not consistently applied'.

On Thursday, reports said that the BBC faced separate accusations of misleading viewers about Mr Trump's 2021 Capitol speech more than two years before the Panorama edit aired.

In an episode broadcast in June 2022, Newsnight reportedly played an edited version of his speech, similar to the one used in the Panorama programme.

A BBC spokesperson said about the fresh claims, reported by The Telegraph's Daily T podcast: 'The BBC holds itself to the highest editorial standards. This matter has been brought to our attention and we are now looking into it.'
Australian beef will now be exempt from Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs after the US President placed a 10 per cent tax on the billion-dollar export.

The White House released a statement saying the President had signed off on the exemption in a wide-ranging executive order.

The order covers a range of food and agricultural products - coffee, tea, tropical fruits, cocoa, bananas, oranges, tomatoes and beef - alongside coal, petroleum, uranium and various chemicals.

The dramatic reversal comes as the Trump administration seeks to ease cost-of-living pressures in the US.

'Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order modifying the scope of the reciprocal tariffs that he first announced on April 2, 2025,' the statement read.

'Specifically, certain qualifying agricultural products will no longer be subject to those tariffs.'

The order is retroactive, allowing importers to claim refunds on tariffs already paid

Australia exports more than $2billion worth of beef to the US every year.

Australian beef will be exempt from Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs after the US President placed a 10 per cent tax on the billion-dollar export

The White House released a statement saying the President had signed off on the exemption in a wide-ranging executive order (pictured, an Aussie grazier with his cattle in Queensland)

However, experts remain sceptical about the impact on Australias beef industry, which has actually benefitted from the tariffs.

Trump first flagged Australian beef as a target on April 2.

'Australia bans  and they're wonderful people, and wonderful everything  but they ban American beef,' he said, while announcing the tariff policy.

'Yet we imported $3billion of Australian beef from them just last year alone.

'They won't take any of our beef. They don't want it because they don't want it to affect their farmers. And you know, I don't blame them, but we're doing the same thing right now starting at midnight tonight.'

James Morgan, managing director of Mutooroo Pastoral Company, told Daily Mail the situation could have been worse.

'If it was a ban this discussion would be a lot more serious and there would be a lot of disappointed and angry people,' he said.

While the news of the tariff was still disappointing, industry figures said American consumers would feel the pinch more than Australian farmers.

On April 2, Trump announced Australian beef (pictured) as a target of his tariff policy

The US needs Australia's lean, grass-fed beef to make hamburgers, because drought in America has resulted in the culling of herds and a shortage of product.

Grass-fed beef made up 96 per cent of Australia's beef exports to the US in 2024.

Exports surged in 2025 amid falling US beef production and steeper tariffs on Chile, Argentina and Brazil.
'What's mine is yours' has long been uttered by love-struck young couples about to embark on married life together.

But growing numbers are ditching the tradition, with up to a fifth of young adults now signing a pre-nuptial agreement before tying the knot.

In a surprising survey for the Marriage Foundation think-tank, one in five men and 16 per cent of women aged 18 to 35 said they had signed a 'pre-nup'.

And six in ten of both sexes, who were either single or in a pre-marriage relationship, said they were open to the idea of getting one.

Intriguingly, as pre-nups have risen, divorce rates have fallen.

Until now, they were thought to be the preserve of older people marrying for the second time who have built up considerable wealth and want to protect it. The legal contracts are signed before marriage to outline how assets, debts and other financial matters will be handled in the event of divorce.

The survey, by Whitestone Insight, asked more than 2,000 adults aged 18 to 35 whether they have a pre-nup or would get one.

The results could reflect the fact that growing numbers are delaying marriage into their 30s, when they have accumulated assets or wealth or inherited them.

Up to a fifth of young adults now sign a pre-nuptial agreement before tying the knot. In a surprising survey for the Marriage Foundation think-tank, one in five men and 16 per cent of women aged 18 to 35 said they had signed a 'pre-nup'

Harry Benson, the Marriage Foundation's research director and author of the study, said: 'It seems the young are embracing the idea of a pre-nup should the worst happen and a marriage break down  and in very large numbers.

Our previous study also found that while they did not appear to increase the chances of a divorce, their presence was associated with lower levels of commitment.

'Why, then, this lower level of commitment was not seen in higher break-up or divorce rates remains unanswered. But prenups are here to stay.'

He added that some couples may see a pre-nup as showing that they're 'on the same page'.

In the 1980s pre-nups were used in 5 per cent of weddings; by about 2000 that had grown to 20 per cent, often among older couples.

Sir Paul Coleridge, founder of the Marriage Foundation, said: 'Times have changed and, strangely, as divorce rates have fallen over the last ten years, pre-nups have become increasingly popular across all age groups.

'Partly, it is because they have been an accepted feature of European divorce law for decades and there are many now who marry abroad but end up making their home in the UK and being divorced here. Another reason is that the courts have endorsed them as a perfectly respectable and responsible step to take before you marry, as long as everyone behaves fairly.

'A couple are thus allowed to make their own bespoke financial arrangements and not rely solely on the one-size-fits-all imposed statutory system in the event of breakdown. Overall, we welcome these latest findings as being pro-marriage and a healthy part of the process.'
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels and the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo have signed a framework for peace in the east of the country.

The ceremony was held in Qatar, which along with the US and the African Union, has been trying to mediate an end to decades of conflict in the resource-rich region.

Earlier this year, the M23 captured the eastern region's main cities of Goma and Bukavu. Previous attempts to secure peace have failed.

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The US's Africa envoy Massad Boulos said the document covered eight protocols and that most still required work. He also acknowledged that prisoner exchanges and ceasefire monitoring had been slower than originally hoped.

Kinshasa is demanding the withdrawal of Rwandan troops from its territory.

Kigali says this can happen once the Congo-based FDLR rebel militia is disbanded. It is largely made up of ethnic Hutus linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide.

The new framework also addresses humanitarian access, the return of displaced people and protection of the judiciary, Boulous is quoted as saying by the AFP agency.

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It builds on a declaration of principles signed by the two sides in Doha in July, as well as a deal made in the same city last month on the monitoring of an eventual ceasefire.

Before that, in June, talks between Rwanda and DR Congo brokered by Washington resulted in the signing of a peace deal that was hailed by US President Donald Trump as a "a glorious triumph" but was swiftly violated by the warring parties.

The M23 is one of the biggest parties in this conflict, but was not directly involved in the US-brokered ceasefire deal. It has always favoured the talks mediated by Qatar, saying they will address "the root causes" of the conflict.

Decades of conflict escalated in January when M23 rebels seized control of large parts of eastern DR Congo including the regional capital, Goma, the city of Bukavu and two airports.

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Since January, thousands of people have been killed and hundreds of thousands of civilians forced from their homes.

After the loss of territory, the government in Kinshasa had turned to the US for help, reportedly offering access to critical minerals in exchange for security guarantees. Eastern DR Congo is rich in coltan and other resources vital to the global electronics industries.

Rwanda denies supporting the M23, despite overwhelming evidence, and insists its military presence in the region is a defensive measure against threats posed by armed groups like the FDLR.

Fighting between the Congolese army and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels escalated in January [AFP via Getty Images]

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[Getty Images/BBC]

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TV presenter Kirstie Allsopp has become embroiled in a social media row with children's author Michael Rosen after accusing some users of a free London public transport travel pass for pensioners of 'bankrupting our country'.

The 54-year-old Location, Location, Location presenter hit out at 79-year-old We're Going On A Bear Hunt author Mr Rosen on X, after he took to the social media platform to say that his Transport for London (TfL) Freedom Pass was not working and that he could not get a replacement.

Ms Allsopp replied to his post: 'A writer so successful that today is a day dedicated to him in schools all over the country thinks it is reasonable that he travels for free due to his age.

'People have to stop taking things they do not need, it is wrong and it is bankrupting our country.'

In reply, Mr Rosen pointed out that he also uses the NHS and that his children have all attended state schools, but Allsopp claimed it was 'not the same' and told him he did not need to travel for free, telling him 'accepting free travel is wrong'.

He added: 'But you've explained that you know my income (and my responsibilities) ie my income flow, so you must also know whether I could afford private health insurance and/or private education.'

Ms Allsopp fired back saying private healthcare and education 'costs a great deal more than travel on the tube or buses', before asking Mr Rosen if he uses his Freedom Pass because he cannot afford to travel without it.

Kirstie Allsopp hit out at Michael Rosen on X, after he posted that his Transport for London Freedom Pass was not working and that he could not get a replacement

In reply, Mr Rosen pointed out that he also uses the NHS and that his children have all attended state schools

Pictured: Mr Rosen and Ms Allsopp's testy exchange on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter

The Harrow-born author replied: 'Which of the state provisions is it ok to use and which not? What about tax relief on donations to charities? Grants/subsidies/discounts for buildings? Are there other concessions I don't know about?'

TfL says its Freedom Pass can be acquired by anyone who lives in a London borough and aged over 66, or is disabled.

The pass allows users to travel for free on London buses, trams and train services including the London Underground, and gives discounts for river boat services and Santander Cycles.

It can also be used to travel for free on buses outside of the capital between 9.30am and 11pm on weekdays, and anytime on weekends and public holidays.
Disgraced former US ambassador Peter Mandelson has suffered fresh humiliation after losing an honorary museum post over his links with billionaire paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

The Labour peer was sacked in September after emails emerged in which he told Epstein to 'fight for early release'.

Earlier this month, his name was taken off a list of honorary fellows at St Catherine's college, Oxford - and now in the latest blow, Lord Mandelson has lost his role at the Design Museum, which he used to chair.

In September, Manchester Metropolitan University stripped the 72-year-old of his honorary doctorate and a commemorative medal, which were given to him during his time as chancellor between 2016 and 2024.

At the London-based Design Museum, Mandelson had served as the Chair of Trustees and had up until this week been considered as an Emeritus Trustee.

A spokesperson told Daily Mirror: 'Lord Mandelson no longer holds any formal position at the Design Museum. He completed his term as Chair of Trustees in 2023.

'The museum's website listed him among several former trustees in recognition of their previous voluntary service to the institution; the role of 'Trustee Emeriti' is honorary and carries no responsibilities or active involvement in the museum's governance or operations. He is no longer an Emeritus Trustee.'

It is understood the removal of his title was decided by the Design Museum rather than Lord Mandelson.

Disgraced former US ambassador Peter Mandelson has suffered fresh humiliation after losing an honorary museum post over his links with billionaire paedophile Jeffrey Epstein

The Foreign Office said recently-published emails showed 'the depth and extent of Peter Mandelson's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein is materially different from that known at the time of his appointment' as US ambassador. Pictured: The Labour peer with his 'best pal' Jeffrey Epstein

His latest rebuke has renewed calls for Lord Mandelson to be stripped of his life peerage which he was given in 2008.

The removal of the title and his removal from the House of Lords would require an act of Parliament.

He was already stripped of his role as High Steward of Hull - a ceremonial role which he was appointed to in 2013 to promote the city.

This week it was revealed that Lord Mandelson had finally been taken off the government payroll.

Foreign Office chief Olly Robbins was grilled about the handling of the former US ambassador's departure as he gave evidence to MPs.

But although Sir Olly confirmed that the New Labour architect was 'withdrawn' from his 160,000 a year post rather than resigning, he refused to say whether he received a payoff.

Instead he merely stressed that the peer was 'dealt with in accordance with his contract' and the department will only reveal details of payoffs if they are over 300,000.

The latest dishonour comes as it emerged Mandelson remained on friendly terms with Epstein as late as 2016 - years after his conviction for soliciting a minor for prostitution.

The Labour peer was made the UK's ambassador to Washington by Sir Keir Starmer

Revealing correspondence published from Epstein's estate by the US House Oversight Committee also shows that Mandelson took relationship advice from the paedophile and urged him to steer clear of Andrew.

In one email from Epstein to Mandelson on 6 November 2016, he writes '63 years old. You made it' not long after his birthday.

Mandelson replies within hours saying: 'Just. I have decided to extend my life by spending more of it in the US' before Epstein replies 'in the Donald White House' referring to the US presidential election due later that week.

Epstein goes on to say 'you were right about staying away from Andrew. I was right in your staying with Rinaldo [sic]', a reference to Mandelson's partner Reinaldo Avilda da Silva.

In another exchange in March 2011, an email shows Mandelson urging Epstein not to do a BBC interview about his links to Andrew.

After being forwarded a request from BBC Radio 4's Today to interview Epstein about 'stories which are circulating', about him and Andrew, Mandelson replied 'No!!'

Mandelson was until recently the UK's ambassador to Washington, but was sacked over his close friendship with the convicted paedophile.

The Labour peer's relationship with Epstein has come under extraordinary scrutiny after the release of a ten-page letter in which he described him as his 'best pal'.

The latest dishonour comes as it emerged Mandelson stayed friendly with Epstein up to 2016

Revealing correspondence shows that Mandelson took relationship advice from the paedophile and urged him to steer clear of Andrew. Pictured: The infamous photograph of the former Duke of York with Virginia Giuffre taken in 2001

The note, written for Epstein's 50th birthday album in 2003, gushed: 'Once upon a time, an intelligent, sharp-witted man they call 'mysterious' parachuted into my life.'

On another page beside a picture of Epstein's private island, Mandelson wrote about him entertaining 'in one of his glorious homes he likes to share with his friends (yum yum)'.

The message ended: 'But wherever he is in the world, he remains my best pal! Happy Birthday Jeffrey. We love you!!'

The album, compiled by Epstein's former lover Ghislaine Maxwell  now serving 20 years in a US jail for sex trafficking  was published on Monday by the US House Oversight Committee, which is investigating Epstein's sordid network of friends.

Sir Keir Starmer, who picked the Labour grandee to be the UK's representative in Washington, sacked Lord Mandelson after emails showed the peer sent supportive messages even as Epstein faced jail for sex offences.

The Foreign Office said the emails showed 'the depth and extent of Peter Mandelson's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein is materially different from that known at the time of his appointment'.

Mandelson has since sought to distance himself from Epstein saying he felt 'utterly awful about my association with Epstein 20 years ago'.
A Democrat congressman was pictured looking at sexually explicit photographs while on a plane - in full view of a disgusted passenger.

California Rep. Brad Sherman, 71, was seen in images circulating social media ogling images of scantily-clad women on his iPad while sat on a flight.

An X user who first shared the images of Sherman on the aircraft wrote in a post seen by millions: 'Why did California Congressman Brad Sherman feel it was appropriate to look at porn on his iPad during a flight today?'

'His district deserves better representation than this!!'

The social media post featured three photos of Sherman, who represents California's 32nd congressional district, with his mouth agape as he looked at images of models in suggestive poses.

The congressman admitted to looking at the pictures in an interview hours later, but insisted he was merely scrolling on his tablet and had not been purposefully viewing pornographic content.

'If I see a picture of a woman, might I look at it longer than a sunset? Yeah,' he told Punchbowl News.

The Democrat lawmaker reasoned that he was actually on X's 'For you' page when he was photographed.

Sherman added: 'I must've looked at more than 1000 posts.'

Pictures on social media revealed that congressman Brad Sherman had been caught looking 'at porn' mid-flight

The 71-year-old California Democrat blamed his mid-flight gaffe on social media algorithms

Sherman said he had not been viewing pornographic content and insisted he was on the 'For you' page on X

According to X, the 'For you' page features posts that are 'based on recommendations of accounts you follow or topics you're interested.'

Sherman admitted that the sexualized pictures surfaced on his X feed mid-flight 'because of the algorithms.'

'Is it pornography? I don't think Elon Musk thinks so,' Sherman told the outlet.

However, he also recognized he should not have been looking at the risque photos.

'Is it appropriate? No,' Sherman added.

Users online were flabbergasted by the senior Democrat's audacity in the middle of a packed airplane.

One X user wrote: 'With the screen brightness ALL the way up. Not an ounce of shame.'

Sherman, pictured alongside former US president Joe Biden and vice president Kamala Harris, has been in Congress since 1997

Sherman, pictured next to California governor Gavin Newsom, represents the west coast state's 32nd congressional district

Another added a facepalm emoji and said: 'Get a privacy screen.'

A third said: 'This is killing me.'

The California congressman's behavior even caught the attention of Donald Trump's inner circle.

Steven Cheung, the White House communications director, posted a close-up of Sherman's agape mouth on Friday evening.

'Bruh,' Cheung wrote. 'What a total gooner.'

Republican congresswoman Nancy Mace compared the photos of Sherman to how she was accused of berating law enforcement at a South Carolina Airport as they escorted her to her gate last month.

She posted on X: 'I don't want to hear a single peep from anyone in/around Congress, or the media, [about] how I stroll through an airport ever again...'

In response to being called out for his inappropriate behavior, Sherman called for the Trump administration to 'release the Epstein Files.'
The mother of murdered 10-year-old Sara Sharif has claimed that Surrey Council did 'too little, too late' to save her daughter after years of abuse.

Sara was found dead in a bunk-bed at the family home in Woking, Surrey, in August 2023, having suffered what was described as 'horrific abuse' at the hands of her father Urfan Sharif and her stepmother, Beinash Batool.

Sharif and Batool were jailed for life with minimum terms of 40 years and 33 years respectively in December last year, after being found guilty of her murder.

Sara's uncle, Faisal Malik, was found guilty of causing or allowing her death and jailed for 16 years.

A report from the Children's Commissioner and Education Secretary, published on Thursday, found Sara's death was preventable and highlighted a series of missed opportunities to save her from harm.

Speaking publicly for the first time since the trial, Sara's mother Olga Domin said her daughter would still be alive if authorities had realised the risks posed by Sharif and accused Surry Council of acting 'too little, too late'.

Olga, who had shared parental responsibility for Sara before custody was transferred to her father, claimed she was 'never contacted' about her daughter's wellbeing and was left feeling 'voiceless' during her torment.

Tragically, Olga admitted she could barely recognise Sara following her death due to her horrific injuries, which included fractures, burns and even bite marks.

10-year-old Sara Sharif was found dead in a bunk-bed at the family home in Woking, Surrey, in August 2023

Urfan Sharif (left) and Beinash Batool (right) were convicted of murder, while Sara's uncle Faisal Malik was convicted of causing or allowing her death

Among the details which emerged from the safeguarding review, was that a council worker had paid a visit to a wrong address for Sara on August 7, just a day before she was whacked in the stomach by Sharif with a metal pole.

She had been taken out of school by her father four months earlier in April and had 'effectively disappeared from view', with his trial hearing there had been a period of escalating violence against her in the meantime.

The review stated that an old home address for Sara remaining on the digital system meant the visit was to the wrong location on August 7 and the next was scheduled for the following month but that Sara died on August 9.

Revisiting the incident during an interview with The Times, Domin said: 'They came too little, too late. If they got to the right house on time, she may have survived, but she probably would have been disabled for life.'

Sara's body was discovered by officers on August 10 when Sharif, who had already fled the country, called police to say he had beaten her 'too much'.

Had Surrey Council's policy on home education of offering a home visit within 10 days been followed, and the child seen, 'it is likely that the abuse of Sara would have come to light, or (her) father's refusal to co-operate would have undoubtably raised a safeguarding alert', the review said.

Council chief executive Terence Herbert said it was 'devastating that the information (on the address) was incorrectly inputted'.

But this was just the latest in a long line of missed opportunities.

Sara was taken into foster care in 2014 at the age of two, but despite the local authority believing she should be adopted, only a 12-month supervision order was put in place 'without adequate safeguards'

The family house on Hammond Road in Woking, Surrey, where the body of 10-year-old Sara Sharif was found under a blanket in a bunk bed

The seriousness and significance of Urfan Sharif's domestic abuse was 'overlooked, not acted on and underestimated by almost all professionals' involved with Sara and her family, the report said.

Sara was already on the radar of child services even before she was born, and family court hearings followed, with the council beginning proceedings to have her taken into care soon after her birth.

In her short life, she moved from the care of her parents, to living with her mother, Olga, and having only supervised contact with her father after his domestic abuse.

But, in 2019, after Sharif alleged Sara had been abused in Olga's care, she was placed with her father and stepmother - a duo the review described as a 'lethal combination' who 'should never have been trusted' to look after her.

Text messages between Batool and her sisters, discovered during the police investigation, showed Sara had begun being assaulted by her father 'soon after she moved in with him'.

The report said the 'overall process' of court proceedings, when it was agreed Sara should live with her father and stepmother, had not maintained 'sufficient focus' on Sara's needs, cultural heritage and the ability of Sharif and Batool 'to provide safe care'.

Olga believes the decision to hand custody over to Sharif cost her daughter's life and she questioned why Sara was not put into foster care. 'It would have been so much better. She'd still be alive,' she told The Times.

By 2021, Sara's demeanour had changed and she started wearing a hijab to hide the bruises, which was not questioned by social workers even though none of her family wore one

The report also stated there were multiple occasions throughout Sara's life when 'more robust safeguarding processes were needed to properly investigate the possibility that she was experiencing significant harm'.

These included a two-day school absence in March 2023, five months before her death after which she returned 'quiet and coy' and with bruising to her cheek, eye and chin.

While Sara's school made a referral to social services, the case was closed within days, without police being contacted.

Sharif had lied to a social worker saying Sara had lots of marks because of machinery she was hooked up to when born prematurely, information the review said was false.

Surrey children's services had failed to 'identify that Sara was at risk of being abused by her father, stepmother and uncle'; 'expected robust safeguarding processes were not followed'; and the child's ''voice' expressed through her change in demeanour was not heard'; the review said.

Sara had not not spoken of the abuse she was experiencing, it added, instead appearing 'cheerful and loyal to her father, whilst he continually groomed and manipulated her, and the professionals who could have helped her'.

Sara had begun to wear the hijab in 2021, aged eight, which the review said hid bruising and injuries to her face and head in the later period of her life.

It said while the school had shown 'appropriate curiosity', there was no evidence in the children's services or health records that race, culture, religion or heritage were 'properly considered', and expert advice since obtained from the local Muslim community suggested it would have been 'highly unusual' for such a young child to decide to wear it when other family members did not.

The review concluded that, despite information available across the system, 'opportunities were lost to join up all the dots and recognise the dangers faced by Sara once she moved in with her father and stepmother'.

Surrey police said this was 'one of the most shocking and tragic cases we have ever investigated' and that the force 'will work with the partnership to help implement its recommendations and safeguard our children and young people as effectively as possible'.

Downing Street said the Government is 'acting to help ensure no child is left invisible to the services designed to protect them and we will, of course, consider this report closely and implement the recommendations fully'.

Mr Herbert added: 'Sara's death is absolutely devastating, and we share our sincere condolences with all those affected. The criminal proceedings resulted in some justice for Sara, and the people that are responsible for her murder are rightly facing long prison sentences.

'We are deeply sorry for the findings in the report related to us as a local authority. We have already taken robust action to address those relating to Surrey County Council, and that work will continue with every recommendation implemented in full. We will also work with partners across the Surrey Safeguarding Children Partnership to ensure a joint action plan is implemented as quickly as possible.'
An alarming number of Sydney's most picturesque swimming spots have been found to contain huge levels of faecal matter in the lead-up to summer.

The NSW government conducted daily testing at popular spots like Tamarama Beach, North Curl Curl Beach, Long Reef Beach, Queenscliff Beach and Shelly Beach along with Yarramundi Reserve and Narrabeen Lagoon.

To their shock, results showed many swimming spots experienced spikes in E. coli.

Common symptoms of E. coli include abdominal cramps and diarrhoea.

In more serious cases, harmful strains of E.coli can lead to HUS, a severe condition that can cause kidney failure and even death.

Enterococci readings at Narrabeen Lagoon were more than 700 per cent above safe limits when tested on October 30.

Faecal matter at Queenscliff Beach was 1,400 per cent higher than safe levels.

Carss Point Baths, Shelly Beach and Yarramundi Reserve also saw rises in enterococci readings about 130 per cent higher than safe levels.

A number of Sydney's most picturesque swimming spots have been found to contain huge levels of faecal matter in the lead-up to summer (pictured, swimmers at Bondi Beach)

Faecal matter at Queenscliff Beach (pictured) was 1,400 per cent higher than the safe levels

Yarramundi in Sydney's west has been described as 'a really dangerous place' to swim

Dr Ian Wright, who has been testing water for 30 years, told Daily Mail that geographic factors had little to do with beach water quality.

The expert said the amount of faecal matter in the water could be blamed on a lack of funding for sewer maintenance, explaining that 'just about all sewers leak'.

'We love the coast in Australia which is where we build up, and take places like Bondi and Manly  have we built up the sewer system infrastructure at the same rate that we build the human population? And the answer is often no,' Dr Wright said.

'When the population was expanding at Chatswood I can remember the sewage engineers saying "break the glass, push the button, we have to expand the size of the sewer mains".'

But spending taxpayer dollars on sewer repairs isn't as popular as other projects.

'We have so much demand for infrastructure for things like hospitals, schools, roads and public transport,' Dr Wright said.

He described Yarramundi in Sydney's west as 'a really dangerous place' and warned young children and elderly people could become very ill if they swam there.

Popular destinations with the lowest levels of faecal matter in the past month included Whale Beach, Palm Beach, Newport, and Bondi Beach.

Even local avoid swimming in Narrabeen Lagoon (pictured)

Palm Beach (pictured) has been named as one of Sydney's cleanest regions to swim

Cronulla Beach (pictured) can cop sewage from up further north

Heavy rainfall were major contributors to poor water quality.

Dr Wright encouraged people to use their senses to make a judgement on whether they should swim or not.

'Your senses are pretty good. If it smells off it probably is and the pollution is often associated with sewage,' he said.

'It's often not brown either, it's often a grey colour from the break-up of toilet paper.'

Dr Wright said Palm Beach, Avalon Beach and Whale Beach at the top end of the Northern Beaches were the best spots to avoid faecal matter.

'That is where the youngest sewage systems are. A lot of those places were only sewered 25 to 30 years ago. And they don't have high rise development,' he said.

'There's a big ocean current off Sydney and it tends to head from north to south so sometimes contamination from the Manly outfall, the Bondi outfall and the Malabar outfall, where sewage is not treated to a high standard, makes it not so good for people from Cronulla and further south.'
Megyn Kelly drew criticism after she mounted a defense of Jeffrey Epstein by claiming to have been told he was into the 'barely legal type' and was apparently not a pedophile.

The conservative commentator faced online backlash for the comments made on Wednesday's episode of her eponymous podcast.

'I do know somebody very, very close to this case, who is in a position to know virtually everything,' Kelly started.

'Not everything but virtually everything - and this person has told me, from the start, years and years ago, that Jeffrey Epstein, in this person's view, was not a pedophile.'

She stressed that these comments came from an unnamed source: 'This is this person's view, who was there for a lot of this, but that he was into the 'barely legal' type.

'Like, he liked 15-year-old girls.'

Kelly recognized that Epstein's actions were 'disgusting' as she continued.

'I'm definitely not trying to make an excuse for this - I'm just giving you facts - that he wasn't into, like, eight-year-olds,' Kelly said. 'But he liked the very young teen types that could pass for even younger than they were, but would look legal to a passerby.'

Megyn Kelly angered listeners after claiming an unnamed source told her that dead pedophile Jeffrey Epstein was into the 'barely legal' type

Epstein was found hanging in his New York prison cell on August 10, 2019, while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges

Kelly explained that she had been 'reliably told' this about Epstein for years, until Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that the FBI was reviewing 'tens of thousands of videos of Epstein with children or child porn' earlier this year.

The political podcaster said that was the first time she thought: 'Oh, no, he was an actual pedophile.'

Kelly added that Bondi had 'never clarified' her comments about the videos.

'I don't know whether it's true,' she said.

'I have to be honest, I don't really trust Pam Bondi's word on the Epstein matters anymore.'

Kelly said she did not know what was true about the dead sex offender, but said 'we have yet to see anybody come forward and say, 'I was under 10, I was under 14, when I first came within his purview'.'

Epstein's victims were allegedly as young as 14 years old, according to the indictment used when he was charged with sex trafficking of minors in July 2019.

Kelly added that Epstein, who died in August 2019 in his jail cell, 'in this person's view, was not a pedophile'

Epstein's victims were allegedly as young as 14 years old, according to federal prosecutors, who said he knew they were underage

Kelly added: 'Look, you can say that's a distinction without a difference. I think there is a difference. There's a difference between a 15-year-old and a five-year-old.

'You know, it's just whatever. It's sick. Every time we start talking about Epstein, it makes your skin crawl, right? The whole thing is just disgusting.'

Kelly's comments on her show came as the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform released 20,000 pages of documents received from Epstein's estate.

She was widely ripped on social media for her comments, with users claiming she was defending the deceased pedophile.

'How is 15 barely legal???' one X user asked.

Another added: 'It's so sad how far people will go to defend the indefensible.'

'What if your 15 yo daughter was pursued by a greasy dirty old man?' a YouTube comment read. 'Not only that but trafficked and permanently traumatized????'

Kelly said she did not 'really trust Pam Bondi's word on the Epstein matters anymore' in the latest episode of her podcast

A second weighed in: 'A 50 year old targeting 15 year old's is sick, disgusting and much more.

'Why are you defending this?'

The Daily Mail has contacted Megyn Kelly's representatives for comment.

In 2018, Kelly said there was 'no consenting for a 14-year-old or even a 17-year-old' as she interviewed an alleged sexual abuse victim from California, where the age of consent is 18.

Federal prosecutors claimed Epstein knew many of his victims were under 18, because some had explicitly told him so.

Epstein was found hanging in his New York prison cell on August 10, 2019, while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. His death was ruled a suicide.
A Brisbane woman has gone to extraordinary lengths to find her beloved dog who vanished during a hailstorm, including hiring a pet detective.

Luna, a rare British Cream dachshund, escaped from her home on Kiriwina Street in the western suburb of Fig Tree Pocket on October 27.

Her distraught owner, Pru Gillett, has taken time off work and poured thousands of dollars into the hunt for her dog.

'She's my child. It's been really overwhelming,' Ms Gillett told The Courier-Mail.

'Luna is my first dog. I've had her one year and four months and decided to get her after returning from Sweden, where I was living.

'I haven't even been able to bear returning to my home in Newstead.'

Ms Gillett enlisted hundreds of volunteers, distributed thousands of leaflets, and even hired a pet detective, who she has not named but said is a former police officer.

She said the detective does not believe Luna was stolen, despite the dog's hefty price tag of $5,500.

Luna (pictured) has been missing since October 27 after she ran away from her Brisbane home

Instead, they suspect the puppy may be hiding in dense bushland near creeks and parks.

'Luna is a timid dog and although she's tiny she can run fast, so if people have seen her she could have run off,' Ms Gillett said.

'There have been groups out every day looking and there are hundreds of comments and likes on the (Facebook) posts I've been putting up every day.

'I'm now hoping the reward will help.'

The search has already cost Ms Gillett about $4000, but a GoFundMe campaign has raised an additional $1000 to fund the next phase: thermal drone searches.

Industrial Drone Services Australia has deployed cutting-edge drones equipped with sensitive thermal cameras to scan scrub and forest areas.

They have flown during the coolest hours of the morning, when warm-blooded animals stand out against the cooler surroundings.

'They looked as far as 3.5km away (from her father's house). It was a $40,000 drone with cameras which can zoom right in, they can tell the difference between a wallaby or a possum and a dog,' Ms Gillett said.

Luna's owner Pru Gillett has deployed drones, a private detective and volunteers to find her

'I also had someone with a thermal telescope approach me to help,' the dog owner said.

'I'm not someone who's good at asking for help, so the response has been amazing, I've been getting phone calls all the time.'

Ms Gillett has also offered a $5,000 reward for Luna's safe return to herself or a vet.

She continues to monitor social media sites like Gumtree in case Luna is listed for sale, and checks daily with the RSPCA and local councils.

The ordeal has drawn comparisons to the survival story of Valerie, another miniature dachshund who became world-famous after being found alive on Kangaroo Island.

Her owners had brought her on a family holiday when the dog went missing for 540 days.

'That story gives me hope,' Ms Gillett said.

'Tonight, Luna might be outside, all alone in the dark, hungry and scared. I just want to bring her home.'
Parents have been urged to immediately stop using a popular children's sand kit amid fears it may contain asbestos, just days after similar sets were recalled.

The 14-piece Sand Castle Building Set, sold at Kmart and Target stores and online, has been recalled after laboratory analysis detected the substance in some samples of the coloured sand.

The kit, which is available in clear, blue, green and pink containers, has been widely used for sensory play and beach activities.

'The product is being recalled because the sand may include asbestos, which is a prohibited substance in Australia,' a notice from Kmart said.

'Stop using the products immediately.'

The notice emphasised that respirable asbestos fibres, the dangerous kind which can be inhaled, were not detected in any of the tested samples.

However, the risk remains if the sand is crushed or pulverised by mechanical means.

'The release of respirable asbestos fibres is unlikely to occur in its current state,' the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission said.

The 14-piece Sand Castle Building Set (pictured), sold at Kmart and Target, has been recalled

Kmart is the latest to recall the sand kit, which was recalled earlier this week after being sold at Officeworks, Educating Kids, Modern Teaching Aids and Zart Art

'However, the risk that any asbestos found could become airborne is low but not zero.'

The batches sold at Kmart included 42975724 (clear container), 42304364 (blue), 42919650 (green) and 42304371 (pink). Target sold batch 69581984.

Kmart is the latest Australian store to recall the sand kit, which was recalled earlier this week after being sold at Officeworks, Educating Kids, Modern Teaching Aids and Zart Art from January 1, 2020 to October 31, 2025.

The stores also recalled batches of Creatistics Coloured Sand 1 kg and Kadink Sand 1.3kg.

The notices prompted WorkSafe ACT to issue a stern warning instructing Australians not to disturb or use the sand kits.

'Isolate the product. Carefully double wrap the sand, its container, and any related materials in 200-micron plastic bags, seal securely with tape, and clearly label the package as asbestos waste,' they said.

Customers are urged not to dispose of the product in general waste but instead take it to an approved disposal facility.

Information on the disposal of asbestos waste, including disposal facilities in your state or territory, can be found here.

The product is one of three brands to have had their products recalled over fears they had traces of asbestos in them, a prohibited substance in Australia

The crisis also escalated further on Friday, with coloured sand products linked to the fears have been identified at more than 100 sites in South Australia.

The SA Department for Education said it is managing the removal of loose sand detected at 'about 20 sites' and sand in containers at a further 88 locations.

About 15 primary schools and three preschools in the ACT were also abruptly closed after traces of chrysotile asbestos were found in coloured sand used for craft and sensory play in the schools, the territory's education department said.

'While WorkSafe ACT has identified the risk of exposure to traces of chrysotile is low, the safety of our schools is our highest priority,' the department said.

Testing will be carried out at affected schools during the closures.

Asbestos-contaminated mulch prompted the closure of schools, hospitals and parks in Sydney in 2024 while historic dumping and legacy contamination were blamed for traces found at parks in Melbourne's west.
US President Donald Trump has called Sadiq Khan a 'terrible mayor' and a 'nasty person' in a bombshell interview last night.

Speaking to GB News, President Trump claimed there were parts of London where 'the police don't even want to go near' and that 'Sharia Law' holds sway instead.

'Your mayor is a disaster, I can tell you. If you put him there i wouldn't even know who he was. He's a disaster, he's a nasty person and he's letting crime go right up,' Trump said in an unfiltered attack on the London mayor.

His comments follow his confirmation that he would be pushing forward with suing the BBC for 'between one and five billion' for their 'misleading' editing of his Capitol Hill speech aired on Newsnight - despite the broadcaster issuing an apology this week to the President.

Trump criticised the state of London and blamed the current mayor, telling GB News' Bev Turner: 'He's a terrible mayor. Look at the crime you have in London.

'My mother loved London, she loved that city - but that was a different London than today.

'Today you have people being stabbed in the ass - or worse.'

He added that 'it's crazy what has gone on in Europe', saying: 'You have areas in London, and you have this in Paris too, where the police don't even want to go anywhere near.

In an interview with GB News' Bev Turner last night, President Trump called the London mayor a 'nasty person' who had treated him 'very, very badly'

This is not the first exchange of bitter words between Sadiq Khan and Donald Trump - earlier this month Mr Khan celebrated the victory of Democrat Zohran Mamdani as New York mayor by hailing the win as proof that the 'toxic politics' of the President 'does not work'

'You have Sharia law where they don't even want to obey the laws of your country and you have much worse conditions.'

Trump comments last night on Sadiq Khan is the latest in a long-standing spat between the politicians.

This month, Mr Khan hailed the victory of self-described socialist and Democrat Zohran Mamdani as New York mayor, hailing the win of the fierce Trump critic.

Mr Khan told Time magazine that Mr Mamdani's victory showed the 'toxic politics' of Mr Trump 'does not work'.

In September, the US President branded Mr Khan a 'terrible, terrible mayor' and claimed he wanted to introduce Sharia law in London.

In a wide-ranging speech at the UN General Assembly in New York, Mr Trump said the capital had 'been changed, it's been so changed'.

'Now they want to go to Sharia law. But you are in a different country, you can't do that,' he added.

A spokesman for Sir Sadiq responded at the time: 'We are not going to dignify his appalling and bigoted comments with a response.

Trump also told reporters on Friday he would be suing the BBC for 'between $1 and $5 billion' (pictured last night onboard Air Force One)

'London is the greatest city in the world, safer than major US cities, and we're delighted to welcome the record number of US citizens moving here.'

Last night Trump appeared to continue the feud, saying Mr Khan had 'treated me very, very badly, he [Khan] said 'who is that guy'?'

He added 'I'll do this interview, it's not controversial because to be honest with you it's just fact - it shouldn't be controversial.'

It comes as Donald Trump also said last night in the fiery interview that he will sue the BBC for its editing of a speech he made in 2021 on the day his supporters overran the Capitol.

The BBC sent a personal apology to the US President on Thursday but said there was no legal basis for him to sue the public broadcaster over a documentary his lawyers called defamatory.

After the BBC refused the total capitulation demanded by the US President, Trump said that he had an 'obligation' to take legal action.

Trump also confirmed to journalists outside the White House on Friday that he planned to formally seek damages, saying: 'We'll sue them from anywhere between $1 billion and $5 billion, probably sometime next week.'
A teenager accused of causing a fatal crash that killed a heavily pregnant mother has allegedly asked for updates about his car while waiting to face court.

Samanvidha Dhareshwar, 33, who was eight months pregnant, was walking with her husband and three-year-old son along George Street at Hornsby, on Sydney's north shore, when she was struck about 8pm on Friday.

Police allege the 48-year-old driver of a Kia Carnival slowed down at the entrance of the train station carpark to let the family cross the footpath when it was hit from behind by a white BMW, causing the Kia to surge forward and hit the woman.

Ms Dhareshwar was treated at the scene for catastrophic injuries before she was rushed to Westmead Hospital, where she and her unborn couldn't be saved.

Aaron Papazoglu, 19, was arrested several hours later at a Wahroonga address and taken to Hornsby police station to be questioned.

Police sources claim the teen repeatedly asked officers for updates about the state of his car after the crash, the Daily Telegraph reported.

Papazoglu was charged with dangerous driving occasioning death, negligent driving occasioning death, and causing the death of a foetus.

He was refused bail to appear in Parramatta Local Court on Sunday.

Samanvidha Dhareshwar, 33, died after she was hit by a car in Hornsby on Friday night (pictured, paramedics treating her at the scene)

A white BMW (pictured), allegedly driven by a 19-year-old P-plater, crashed into a silver Kia Carnival, which then hit the pregnant woman

Neither Papazoglu or the Kia driver were injured in the collision. Both were taken to hospital for mandatory testing.

Ms Dhareshwar had been walking out with her husband and their young son on what tragically would be their last outing as a family.

Following the horrific crash, her devastated family were seen crying and covering their mouths in shock.

Residents have laid flowers at the scene in memory of the mother and her unborn baby.

'I have children and grandchildren. I cant even imagine how that family is feeling,' one woman told the Telegraph.

NSW Police Traffic and Highway Patrol Command Assistant Commissioner David Driver described the crash as 'very confronting' for emergency crews.

'Any serious crash is very confronting for first responders and particularly tragic when people pass away and indeed when there are children involved,' he told reporters on Saturday.

'This is a terrible, terrible story.'

Aaron Papazoglu, 19, will appear in court on Sunday over the fatal crash. Pictured are paramedics at the scene

Zoe's Law, introduced in NSW in 2022, created specific offences for causing the loss of an unborn child through criminal acts.

Previously, such loss was treated as an injury to the mother.

Under the law, if a foetus of at least 20 weeks or 400 grams dies due to dangerous driving or grievous bodily harm, offenders face harsher penalties, with up to three years added to the maximum sentence for the underlying offence.

Police are urging anyone with information to contact Hornsby Police or Crime Stoppers.
The Queen's son Tom Parker Bowles grappled with a '15-stone dog' after it mauled his beloved Jack Russell, leaving the tiny pet fighting for her life.

The food writer had been walking Maud along Kensington High Street when they approached what he later described as a 'vast dog, possibly a cane corso', being held on a metal chain lead.

He said the pair gave the animal a wide berth, but the dog suddenly 'spotted Maud, dragged the owner off his feet and brutally attacked' the two-stone terrier.

In a harrowing account shared on Instagram, he wrote: 'I eventually managed to fight off the beast, rolling about on the pavement, and desperately trying to unlock its jaws from her tiny torso.

'It seemed like hours, but was probably no more than 30 seconds,' the heartbroken dog owner wrote on Instagram.

Maud was left 'very, very seriously injured' and was rushed to an emergency vet, aided by a 'kind lady' who 'whistled like a navvy to hail a cab'.

Mr Parker Bowles urged that 'dangerous dogs like this should always be muzzled', though he stressed: 'Although I'm a great believer in there being no bad dogs, rather bad owners.'

The food writer had been walking Maud along Kensington High Street when they approached what he later described as a 'vast dog, possibly a cane corso'

Mr Parker Bowles urged that 'dangerous dogs like this should always be muzzled', though he stressed: 'Although I'm a great believer in there being no bad dogs, rather bad owners'

He went on to thank the strangers who intervened as Maud lay bleeding on the pavement: 'I want to thank all the lovely people, of every creed and colour, who rushed to help The cab drivers who ferried me across town.

'And the brilliant vet @villagevetlond Chiswick who saved her life.'

He ended with praise for the capital: 'The kindness of strangers is immense It's still the greatest city on earth and I'm so very proud to be a Londoner.'

As reported by the Mail last year, 16 dogs are seized every day in the UK, according to data released last year.

Since November 2023, almost 6,000 dangerous dogs have been taken by 27 police forces  an average of 114 a week.

Greater Manchester recorded the highest seizures, taking 19 dogs a week and putting down 337 animals over the year.

West Midlands officers seized 17 a week, followed by Northumbria with nine. West Yorkshire reported eight, while Leicestershire seized six.
This is the shocking moment a Sardinian politician trips and dives through a priceless stained glass window in Rome - shattering it into pieces.

Footage shows Emanuele Cani walking down the stairs to attend a reception at the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy before losing his footing.

Cani desperately tries to regain his balance, but is unsuccessful and hurtles towards the 'Labour Charter,' a work by the futurist artist Mario Sironi.

His head crashes violently into the stained-glass window, which immediately collapses upon impact.

Guests at the reception can be seen chatting casually before suddenly whipping around toward the window in shock, apparently reacting to the loud crash.

Fortunately, Cani did not suffer physical injuries.

The councillor expressed his 'deep regret for the damage' caused by the accident on November 12.

Footage shows Emanuele Cani walking down the stairs to attend a reception at The Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy before losing his footing

Cani desperately tries to regain his balance, but is unsuccessful and hurtles towards the 'Labour Charter,' a work by the futurist artist Mario Sironi

His head crashes violently into the stained-glass window, which immediately collapses upon impact

But, the destroyed stained-glass window was more than just an architectural feature; it was an irreplaceable artwork installed in 1932 when the building housed the Fascist Ministry of Corporations.

The work, made of stained glass, depicted figures engaged in various crafts and arts, a testament to the iconographic language of the period.

Mario Sironi was a leading Italian modernist artist whose work became widely recognised in the early 20th century.

Starting out with the Futurists, he later developed a heavier, more dramatic style that made him a major figure in Italy's public art scene.

He created murals, mosaics and decorative pieces for government buildings across the country, including the newly destroyed 'Labour Charter', which was one of his most famous works.

Although Sironi's reputation was later clouded by his support for Mussolini's regime, his work is still seen as an important - and sometimes controversial - part of Italy's artistic history.

The destroyed stained-glass window (pictured) was more than just an architectural feature, it was an irreplaceable art work installed in 1932 when the building housed the Fascist Ministry of Corporations

Fortunately, Cani (pictured) did not suffer physical injuries but is bound to have a bruised ego after the embarrassing blunder

Sironi created murals, mosaics and decorative pieces for government buildings across the country, including the newly destroyed 'Labour Charter', which was one of his most famous works. Pictured: The Labour Charter before it was destroyed

The 'Labour Charter' is not the only valuable artwork in Italy to be destroyed by an embarrassing mishap recently.

In June a careless tourist sparked fury after he damaged a priceless 18th century painting while trying to take a selfie.

Who was Mario Sironi?



Mario Sironi (18851961) was an influential Italian painter, sculptor and graphic artist known for his bold, brooding style and early involvement in the Futurist movement. Born in Sardinia and raised in Rome, he became a key figure in Italy's modernist art scene. After World War I, he moved away from Futurism and developed a darker, monumental aesthetic. He went on to create major public artworks across Italy, including murals, mosaics and architectural pieces. Sironi was a prominent figure in the 1920s and 30s push for grand public art, producing works that often featured workers, machinery and stark urban landscapes. His 'Labour Charter' stained-glass window - shattered in the accident - was one of his notable creations. Although his reputation was complicated by his support for Mussolini's regime, his artistic legacy has seen renewed interest, with museums highlighting his technical skill and lasting influence on Italian modernism. Advertisement

The unnamed culprit had been enjoying a visit to the Uffizi Gallery in Florence when his day out took a turn for the worse.

The man decided to try and capture a picture of himself mimicking the pose of Ferdinando de' Medici, Grand Prince of Tuscany, in a portrait by Anton Domenico Gabbiani.

But the visitor's bright idea soon became an embarrassing blunder when he lost his balance.

The man stumbled backward, falling against the portrait and leaving a hole at the level of the prince's right boot.

Museum staff were quick to identify the man and reported him to the police for causing the damage.

The painting was removed for repair, with experts concluding that the damage was relatively minor.

The incident occurred in the ground-floor rooms hosting the Florence and Europe: Arts of the 18th Century at the Uffizi exhibition, the first under the gallery's new director, Simone Verde.

A trade union representing museum workers said the tourist had tripped on a low platform intended to keep visitors at an appropriate distance from the paintings.

It had previously raised concerns to the museum authorities after another visitor had tripped but without causing any damage.

'Visitors are looking at the paintings, not at the ground. Those platforms are unsuitable and too dark,' said Silvia Barlacchi, a staff representative.

Verde said: 'The problem of visitors coming to museums to make memes or take selfies for social media is rampant: we will set very precise limits, preventing behaviour that is not compatible with the sense of our institutions and respect for cultural heritage.

'The tourist, who was immediately identified, will be prosecuted.'

It came after earlier that month, a tourist was caught on CCTV sitting on a crystal-studded 'Van Gogh' chair exhibit in an Italian art gallery - before it buckled under him.

The chair, which is named after the famous Dutch painter, is housed in the Maffei Palace, Verona, and is covered with hundreds of Swarovski crystals.

It was designed by Italian artist Nicola Bolla and is described by local media as being 'extremely fragile and delicate'.
Rachel Reeves is set to target middle class families by introducing a new levy on hundreds of thousands of homes in the Budget in a bid to raise 600million.

It is believed one in ten homes in England  currently designated Band F or above for council tax - will be revalued and could be under threat of an additional charge.

While it is dubbed the mansion tax by Labour insiders, suggesting it will only hit the wealthiest, it will affect a share of the 1.3 million middle-class families living in Band F properties.

The surcharge is expected to hit families living in London and the South East where house values are higher.

They could face annual surcharges of hundreds of pounds on top of bills which already average 3,293.

Meanwhile the majority of more than 150,000 homeowners living in the most valuable properties in Bands F, G and H face paying thousands of pounds more each year.

Around 2.4 million of these properties, representing the one in ten English homes, are expected to be revalued by the Treasury to enable them to levy the tax.

A council tax surcharge is then likely be applied to around 300,000 of the most valuable homes.

Rachel Reeves is set to target middle class families by introducing a new levy on hundreds of thousands of homes in the Budget in a bid to raise 600million

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Reeves is seeing it as one of a raft of measures to bring in funds to raise an estimated 25billion to shore up the countrys finances after she abandoned her plan to raise income tax.

Experts warn the uncertainty the new tax could impose on millions of homeowners could be catastrophic for the property market.

The system could see up to a quarter of homes revalued in some areas with over 15 per cent of all homes in London and the South East falling within the scope of the new levy.

Shadow chancellor Sir Mel Stride accused Labour of waging a class war against middle England.

He told the Telegraph: If Starmer and Reeves decide to introduce a new tax raid on family homes, they will be punishing aspiration and hitting hardworking people.

Under Labour, nothing is safe  not your job, your home, your savings, or your pension.

The mansion tax raid has come onto the table as one of a number of other likely tax measures following last weeks confirmation by the Treasury that income tax will not be hiked on November 26.

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The controversial planned income tax rise of 2p in the pound would have been in direct contravention of Labours manifesto promise.

But the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) is believed to have concluded that it would not generate as much money as expected.

News that the widely-expected rise had been ditched triggered accusations of a chaotic economic strategy and markets were thrown into disarray.

This was exacerbated by fears of a leadership coup against the Prime Minister.

Englands council tax system has come onto Labours radar because it has often been called regressive by economists.

It is based on property values from 1991 and means that people living in smaller homes often pay proportionally more in tax than those in larger properties.

Other options being considered after a review commissioned by Minouche Shafik, Sir Keirs chief economic adviser, include a full revaluation of properties.

Earlier this month Ms Reeves was pictured leaving Downing Street with part of her diary visible, and the word 'Thresholds' to describe one meeting

But a separate surcharge is currently seen as the most efficient way to collect extra money. Sources say that, while higher property taxes are certain to come in the Budget, the details of any plan could still change.

Any new levy would follow a Valuation Office Agency reassessment and would be unlikely to be introduced until 2028.

The new tax could also be deferred until homeowners move home or die, it is understood.

We are witnessing the most shambolic pre-Budget period in memory,' Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride told the Daily Mail.

'The constant leaking, briefing and kite-flying is fuelling uncertainty and damaging our economy.

'Markets are unnerved and business confidence is at a record low. This is chaos on an industrial scale. We are becoming an economic laughing stock under Labour.

Former chancellor Sir Jeremy Hunt told Times Radio: The whole world is reading this information and theyre looking at British economic decision-making.

'And it looks very chaotic and I dont think thats a good thing.
A massive explosion next to a major airport in Argentina has seen flights cancelled and 22 people rushed to hospital.

The blaze took hold last night in an industrial area south of Buenos Aires, the country's capital, officials said, as firefighters battled the flames.

The mayor of Ezeiza, where events unfolded, said the cause of the explosion was yet unknown.

'We are trying to control [the fire] and extinguish it but have not been able to so far', Gaston Granados, mayor of the capital, said.

'The explosions and fire breaking out in the different factories are huge.'

Footage showed thick smoke pouring out of the industrial area, as a local hospital director confirmed they were treating 22 injured people.

The fire broke out after an explosion in Ezeiza, a capital city south of Buenos Aires in Argentina

The industrial area is next to a major airport, which has had to cancel flights following the incident

22 people were rushed to hospital as emergency services attempted to tackle the blaze

The mayor of the city said the cause of the explosion is yet unknown

'It is a complex fire. It will be a long fire,' Fabian Garcia, the civil defence director for Buenos Aires, said.

According to local media reports, five factories were hit by the explosions and fire.

The industrial area houses buildings producing tires, chemical products, and other goods.
Nine people have been injured, with two fighting for life, after a horrific crash at a speedway in western New South Wales.

Emergency services were called to a demolition car rally in Walcha, 420 kilometres north of Sydney, about 6.15pm on Saturday.

Police received reports that a demolition car crashed through a fence and struck a mobile grandstand.

Thirteen people were injured.

A man in his 50s suffering spinal and hip injuries and another in his 30s with a head injury airlifted to Newcastle's John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition.

Eleven other victims, aged 20-75, were transported to hospitals in Armidale, Tamworth and Walcha; six had serious injuries.

The Walcha Motorcycle Rally is a popular annual event that draws motorsport enthusiasts from across the region, featuring bike shows and stunt displays.

Four spectators at Walcha Motorcycle Rally in Walcha, New South Wales, have been rushed to hospital after a vehicle crashed into a grandstand (stock picture)

Spectators rushed to help seven men and two women, aged between 20 and 75, before paramedics arrived and transported them to Walcha District Hospital

One of the event highlights is the demolition derby.

Community leaders thanked the efforts of emergency responders as they expressed their prayers for the injured victims and their families.

'Thank you so much to the ambos, fire and rescue, the police, the SES, bystanders and everyone involved for their swift and incredibly professional work at the scene,' Northern Tablelands state MP Brendan Moylan said.

'Like all of us, my thoughts are with everyone affected.'

Local federal Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce added: 'My thoughts, prayers and hopes are with those now in critical care after the incident at Walcha.'

'Thank you to all the off-duty nurses and first responders who immediately dropped everything to help the injured in the storm.

'Such a sad end to such a great event.'
The widow of the first man to die in the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster has been killed in a barbaric Russian strike on Kyiv, almost 40 years after surviving the world's worst nuclear explosion.

The sickening overnight attack by Vladimir Putin's forces tore through an apartment block long known as a home for Chernobyl survivors, leaving 62-year-old Natalia Khodemchuk fatally wounded.

She had been pulled from the rubble with burns covering almost half her body after last night's strike and rushed to hospital, but medics confirmed she could not be saved.

Her husband, Soviet engineer Valery Khodemchuk, was the very first victim of the 1986 catastrophe, 'vaporised' when Reactor 4 blew apart.

Aged just 35, his remains were never recovered. He had placed his final phone call at 1.23am moments before the double explosion ripped through the pump halls of Unit four.

His wife survived the nuclear explosion and almost 40 years later she was brutally killed by the Kremlin.

The same Russian strike also tore into the home of Chernobyl engineer Oleksiy Ananenko, now 66, one of the three 'suicide divers' who saved the world by wading through radioactive water to avert a second cataclysm.

His flat was left blackened with smoke, forcing his wife, Valentyna, 55, to drag him to safety in the dark.

The Russian attack in Ukraine overnight left Natalia Khodemchuk fatally wounded

The sickening overnight strike by Vladimir Putin 's forces tore through the apartment block

The block, well known to Moscow, was originally built to house workers relocated after the 1986 explosion, a community of survivors now targeted again

'We woke up at 1:30am because we heard a drone flying,' she said. 'And then the explosion came immediately.

'When I looked out the window, pieces of debris were lying on the ground, burning. I realised it was our building.

'Then I came here into the corridor, and a neighbour was already shouting that our building was on fire. When we opened the door, very acrid smoke came in. It was impossible to breathe.

'We left our flat and went to the neighbour on the other side. There was no smoke there, so we shut ourselves in and waited it out. When I came back in, everything was black, filled with thick black smoke.'

The block, well known to Moscow, was originally built to house workers relocated after the 1986 explosion, a community of survivors now targeted again.

Natalia became the seventh fatality from Friday's barrage, which also left 35 injured in what officials called one of the war's heaviest bombardments of the capital.

Images from Kyiv show the shattered, drone-hit building where Chernobyl's survivors were once promised safety.

British actor Kieran O'Brien portrayed Valery Khodemchuk in the Chernobyl miniseries. Ananenko, portrayed by Icelandic actor Baltasar Breki Samper in HBO's Chernobyl, remains a national hero.

With senior engineer Valeri Bespalov and shift supervisor Boris Baranov, he volunteered to descend into radioactive water to drain the coolant system and prevent a multi-megaton steam explosion that could have rendered much of Europe uninhabitable.

'I did my job and it's nothing to brag about,' he later recalled. 'I wasn't scared because I focused on my duties.'

He described wading through the pitch-black water, guided only by marked valves:

'We just opened the latches and immediately there was a noise. We understood the water was gone and we just had to go back.'

Doctors said she had suffered devastating burns to her face and upper body, alongside severe heart complications, and could not be saved.

Her husband Valery's final moments remain part of the historical record. Seconds before the reactor blew, he had called fellow operator Aleksandr Odintsov:

Natalia Khodemchuk, the widow of the the first casualty of the Chernobyl disaster Valery Khodemchuk

'I need to recharge the lower feed for [pump number] 22 Okay, come on. So it's shortened, one sec'

At 1:23:48am, the reactor erupted. He died instantly.

Images from Kyiv show the shattered, drone-hit building where Chernobyl's survivors were once promised safety.

The explosion on 26 April 1986 destroyed Reactor Number 4 at the nuclear plant in Ukraine, then, like Russia, part of the Soviet Union.

Five days later scientists discovered the core was still melting and burning through to the basement, where five million gallons of water were stored.

They feared that if 185 tons of molten nuclear lava hit the water below, it would cause a radioactive steam explosion of 3-5 megatons which would have made much of Europe uninhabitable for hundreds of thousands of years.
Tesla has ordered suppliers to ditch China-made parts in its US-made cars, months after Trump-era tariffs ignited a global trade war.

The electric-vehicle company revealed it told suppliers to eliminate China-made materials from American-assembled cars, with plans to switch entirely to non-Chinese parts within two years, sources familiar with the situation exclusively told the Wall Street Journal.

In the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, Elon Musk's company sought to cut ties with China for component production and urged suppliers to manufacture parts elsewhere, including Mexico and Southeast Asia.

A China-based executive reported earlier this year that Teslas Shanghai plant has roughly 400 Chinese suppliers, over 60 of which contribute to the companys worldwide production, according to the WSJ.

While Chinas scale, low costs and weak currency make many components cheaper, sources told the outlet that the trade conflict has complicated Teslas pricing strategy.

The unpredictability comes from President Donald Trumps aggressive April tariffs - roughly 10 percent on products from almost every country in the world - with Chinese imports hit particularly hard at 57 percent.

The measure aimed to pressure Chinas economy, but it failed to inflict significant damage.

Tesla revealed it told suppliers to eliminate China-made materials from American-assembled cars, with plans to switch entirely to non-Chinese parts within two years

After the Covid-19 pandemic, Elon Musk's company sought to cut ties with China for component production and urged suppliers to manufacture parts in Mexico and Southeast Asia

Tesla's move accelerated after Trumps aggressive April tariffs - roughly 10 percent on products from almost every country in the world - with Chinese imports hit particularly hard at 57 percent

Chinese tech firms quickly made up for declining exports to the US by ramping up shipments to dozens of other nations with 'breathtaking speed,' according to a New York Times analysis.

When Trump and Beijing enacted matching tariffs between the third quarters of 2024 and 2025, Chinese exports to the US fell by some $38 billion.

Meanwhile, China dramatically boosted exports elsewhere, adding $12 billion to Hong Kong, $11 billion to Vietnam, $5 billion to Thailand and $15 billion to the European Union.

Automakers were blindsided in the spring when China limited exports of certain rare earths and magnets vital to car manufacturing.

Producing more than 90 percent of the worlds processed rare earths - from smartphones to military gear - China is now rapidly increasing its trade presence in Africa, as reported by NYT.

The capital of China has also ramped up exports of electric vehicles, batteries, steel equipment and solar panels across Africa, South America and Asia.

'They should not be surprised that China is able to find markets outside of the advanced economies,' Mary Lovely, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, told the paper.

Chinas ban on Dutch company Nexperia semiconductor exports - used in car electronics and lights - has also left automakers scrambling for chips, according to WSJ.

When Trump and Beijing enacted matching tariffs between the third quarters of 2024 and 2025, Chinese exports to the US fell by some $38 billion

Automakers were blindsided in the spring when China limited exports of certain rare earths and magnets vital to car manufacturing

China dramatically boosted exports elsewhere, adding $12 billion to Hong Kong, $11 billion to Vietnam, $5 billion to Thailand and $15 billion to the European Union (pictured: Chinese President Xi Jinping)

Last month, during their first face-to-face meeting in six years (pictured), Trump struck a deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping and slashed 10 percent from China's tariff bill

Most of Nexperias chips are manufactured across Europe, but final processing and packaging take place in China before being exported worldwide.

The company was previously owned by a Chinese parent on the US trade blacklist. Although the Dutch government reclaimed control, China blocked chip exports as it controls whether the products leave the country or not.

As a result, automakers around the world, who rely on these chips for car electronics and lighting, have faced shortages.

Last month, during their first face-to-face meeting in six years, Trump struck a deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping, after which Beijing permitted some Nexperia chips to reach overseas customers.

Trump told reporters on Air Force One after the historic sit-down on October 29 that he slashed 10 percent from China's tariff bill because he believes their leader will work to stymie the flow of deadly drugs to the US.

Beijing further agreed to maintain soybean purchases, provide temporary one-year access to rare earth materials and make an unspecified commitment to combat fentanyl trafficking.

Daily Mail reached out to Tesla for comment.
A crime gang could be behind one of Britain's biggest ever flytipping incidents which has seen a 500ft-long pile of waste dumped in Oxfordshire.

The cost of removing the 50ft-wide, 30ft-high mountain could be more than the entire annual budget of the local council.

The pile of rubbish, which has been dumped illegally, appeared just metres from the river Cherwell next to the A34 near Kidlington and is thought to weigh hundreds of tonnes.

It is believed the waste was dumped in one go and it has since been described by an MP as 'threatening an environmental disaster'.

It was discovered last month by horrified anglers and contains shredded plastic, foam and wood mixed together with what appears to be earth. It is not known exactly when the mountain appeared.

Some of the rubbish has fallen down because it was so tall, which has left the waste just five metres from the river.

Now experts are pointing the finger at an unidentified crime gang after a spate of flytipping incidents that have been traced back to criminal networks.

Charity Friends of the Thames said the illegal rubbish dump was created by an organised crime group.

A crime gang could be behind one of Britain's biggest ever flytipping incidents which has seen a 500ft-long pile of waste dumped in Oxfordshire

The 500ft-long dump has been described as one of the biggest fly tips ever seen in Britain

The pile of hazardous rubbish was illegally dumped in a field next to the A34 and River Cherwell near Kidlington in Oxfordshire

It said no visible containment or mitigation measures appear to be in place.

The charity's chief executive, Laura Reineke, said: 'This is an environmental catastrophe unfolding in plain sight.

'A mountain of waste has been allowed to build up just metres from the river Cherwell - an illegal landfill sitting on the floodplain of one of our most important waterways.

'Every day that passes increases the risk of toxic run-off entering the river system, poisoning wildlife and threatening the health of the entire catchment.

'The Environment Agency must act now, not in months or years - which is their usual reaction time. This is exactly what happens when environmental crime is ignored - and it's our rivers, wildlife, and communities that pay the price.'

The Environment Agency has obtained a court order to close the site to all public access for at least six months.

In a report released last month, the Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee warned that organised crime gangs are illegally dumping millions of tonnes of waste across the countryside every year.

The committee identified incompetence at the Environment Agency as a factor in the growing crisis.

But Philip Duffy, the agency's chief executive, hit back, and said: 'I think it's very unfair on my hardworking staff to be accused of incompetence.'

Experts are pointing the finger at an unidentified crime gang after a spate of flytipping incidents that have been traced back to criminal networks

Much of the waste appears to have been shredded and mixed up with earth

Calum Miller, Liberal Democrat MP for Bicester and Woodstock, raised the issue in Parliament, telling MPs: 'Criminals have dumped a mountain of illegal waste weighing hundreds of tonnes in my constituency on a floodplain adjacent to the river Cherwell.

'The Environment Agency said it has limited resources for enforcement.

'The estimated cost of removal is greater than the entire annual budget of the local district council.'

Anya Gleizer, a geography researcher at Oxford University, said the dump poses an 'environmental and health emergency'.

'What we have on our hands, right now, is an environmental and health emergency that threatens not only the Cherwell river and its ecosystem, but also poses a direct risk to us: the communities living downstream from the dump-site,' she said.

'As an ecologist, river guardian, rower but also, more simply, as a mother of a child that enjoys splashing about and fishing for aquatic invertebrates, I have to emphasise that this crime has more far-reaching consequences.'

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: 'Specialist officers are investigating waste dumped near the A34 at Kidlington. Their role will be to find who left the waste there and take appropriate action.

'We share the public's anger about incidents like this, which is why we take action against those responsible for waste crime. Anyone with information about this incident, or if they suspect waste crime elsewhere, can call the Environment Agency's 24-hour incident hotline: 0800 807060.'
A man who allegedly attacked the office of Donald Trump's lawyer and acting New Jersey Attorney Alina Habba has been arrested.

Keith Michael Lisa, 51, was taken into custody after allegedly carrying out the attack on Habba's New Jersey office earlier this week.

It remains unclear when he was arrested, however Attorney General Pam Bondi announced he had been captured on X early on Saturday morning.

She said: 'The suspect wanted in the attack on US Attorney Habbas office is now in custody.

'No one will get away with threatening or intimidating our great US Attorneys or the destruction of their offices.'

Bondi said earlier this week that an individual had 'destroyed property' at Habba's office and promised her office would 'find this person.'

Authorities described Lisa as being around 6ft 3ins tall and weighing somewhere between 200 to 230 pounds.

A notice accused him of entering Habba's office while in possession of a bat and damaging government property.

Keith Michael Lisa, 51, was taken into custody after allegedly carrying out the attack on Habba's New Jersey office earlier this week

A notice accused him of entering Habba's office while in possession of a bat and damaging government property. Habba is pictured inside the Oval Office in March

It said: 'Keith Michael Lisa is wanted for allegedly entering the Peter W Rodino Federal Building in Newark, New Jersey, on November 12, 2025, while in possession of a bat.

'After being denied entry, he discarded the bat and returned. Once inside the building, he proceeded to the US Attorney's Office where he damaged government property.

Authorities described Lisa as being around 6 foot 3 inches tall and weighing somewhere between 200 to 230 pounds

'A federal arrest warrant was issued for Lisa on November 13, 2025, in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey after he was charged with Possession of a Dangerous Weapon in a Federal Facility and Depredation of Federal Property.'

'I will not be intimidated by radical lunatics for doing my job,' Habba wrote in an X post about the incident.

A person close to Habba told the Daily Mail that she was not in her office at the time. It is not clear how an unauthorized individual made it up to the seventh floor.

'Any violence or threats of violence against any federal officer will not be tolerated. Period,' Bondi wrote on X in her Thursday post.

'This is unfortunately becoming a trend as radicals continue to attack law enforcement agents around the country.'

She assured that the Justice Department is using all tools to track down the suspect and ensure the safety of all federal prosecutors and federal agents.

Habba was Counselor to the President during President Donald Trump's first few months in office after serving as a firebrand defense attorney in his personal lawsuits and a campaign surrogate in the later days of the 2024 election cycle.

In late March, Habba was sworn in as interim US Attorney for the District of New Jersey  her home state.

Habba was Counselor to the President during President Donald Trump's first few months in office after serving as a firebrand defense attorney in his personal lawsuits

Trump is seen here swearing in Habba, who is standing alongside Attorney General Pam Bondi

This kick-started a 120-day term that expired in late July and led to legal disputes over whether she could continue in her capacity as top attorney in New Jersey.

Habba is just the latest MAGA-aligned individual to receive threats or experience acts of violence against them.

Republicans have complained that left-wing violence has been on the rise and point to the September assassination of conservative luminary Charlie Kirk, who was an ally of Trump and the MAGA agenda.

Habba is also an outspoken Trump ally who is now in a top attorney role.

A panel of judges for the District of New Jersey declined to extend Habba's interim term in July and appointed her first assistant, Desiree Leigh Grace, to lead the office instead.

Just hours later, Bondi fired Grace and said the judges were interfering with the President's Article II powers. Then the White House withdrew Habba's Senate nomination and placed her in an 'acting' capacity under the federal vacancy rule.

She then had 210 days from that point to stay in that role, giving her 98 days left in the acting role as of Thursday.
New York City mayor-elect and self-proclaimed Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani urged his followers not to purchase Starbucks products while workers are on strike.

Mamdani posted the call to action on his X account to his more than one million followers, which generated swift backlash from those who opposed his pro-union stance.

'Starbucks workers across the country are on an Unfair Labor Practices strike, fighting for a fair contract,' he wrote in the post.

'While workers are on strike, I wont be buying any Starbucks, and Im asking you to join us. Together, we can send a powerful message: No contract, no coffee.'

Starbucks Workers United, the union representing baristas, announced that over 1,000 workers kicked off the strike on Thursday in protest of the company's refusal to address demands for better staffing, higher pay, and an end to unfair labor practices.

The strike is being called the Red Cup Rebellion because it coincided with Starbucks' annual Red Cup Day, when customers were given red reusable cups with their holiday-themed drink orders.

Social media users on X took umbrage with Mamdani's support of the strike, with one writing: 'The interesting thing is that workers are calling for people to boycott their company which increases the chances of stores closing (or the whole company) resulting in jobs lost.

'Seems like a game of chicken. In the end, there's a real chance both sides lose in this game.'

New York City mayor-elect and self-proclaimed Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani called on his followers to boycott Starbucks in support of workers

Starbucks Workers United has gone on strike after contract negotiations stalled with executives. A picket line in New York City on Thursday

Mamdani's social media post received backlash from those who disagreed with his pro-union message

'Starbucks isnt meant to provide liveable wages these are meant to be part time supplemental jobs. Youre going to get everyone replaced by amicable robots if you keep up the shenanigans,' another argued.

Others boasted that the strike wouldn't stop them from getting the Starbucks promotion, with one writing: 'I don't even like coffee, but I'm going to my nearest Starbucks tomorrow and ordering something.'

Another added: 'Thanks, Ill be hitting Starbucks regularly the next several months.'

Despite the social media backlash, many lawmakers are supporting the strike, calling on Starbucks executives to come to an agreement with the union.

Earlier this week, 26 senators and over 80 House representatives signed letters to the CEO of Starbucks, Brian Niccol, in support of the union.

'Despite that extravagant spending on executives and shareholders, Starbucks refuses to reach an agreement with its own workers even though you are less than one average days sales apart from a contract,' senators wrote in a letter to Niccol.

'To make matters worse, Starbucks recently began closing stores across the country and laying off hundreds of workers as part its $1 billion restructuring plan. It is clear that Starbucks has the money to reach a fair agreement with its workers.'

Senators Bernie Sanders, Tammy Baldwin, Richard Blumenthal, Cory Booker, Kristen Gillibrand, and Elizabeth Warren were among the signatories.

Starbucks union workers are demanding higher wages, more hours, and an end to union busting

In a separate letter, House reps pointed out that 'Starbucks is not a poor company,' with the coffee giant making over $3.6 billion in profit last year.

The strike comes 18 months after national framework bargaining began between baristas and Starbucks executives.

The union presented a set of proposals to Starbucks in September 2024, but each set was denied, according to Workers United.

Baristas are demanding higher take-home pay, more hours, improved staffing, and an end to union-busting.

'I want Starbucks to succeed. My livelihood depends on it. I know that Starbucks success has to include and prioritize people like me who make the coffee, open the stores, and keep the customers coming back,' Dachi Spoltore, a striking barista from Pittsburgh said in a press call on Thursday kicking off the strike.

'Were proud of our work, but were tired of being treated like were disposable. Thats why were taking this major step. Were confident and clear-eyed in what we need to win a contract and resolve the legal issues,' the statement continued.

'Were risking a lot: our jobs, our livelihoods, our economic security. This might be a game to Starbucks, but it isnt a game for us.'

Democratic politicians in Congress have signed open letters to the CEO of Starbucks demanding better working conditions for baristas

The strike comes 18 months after the national framework began for contract negotiations between Starbucks executives and union workers

Mayor-elect Katie Wilson also voiced support for Starbucks baristas at a rally on Thursday

Other Democratic politicians are calling on Starbucks to meet the union's demands, with Seattle mayor-elect Katie Wilson speaking at a rally: 'Baristas are the heart and soul of this company, and they deserve better than empty promises and corporate union busting This is your hometown and mine.

'Seattle is making some changes right now. And I urge you to do the right thing.'

Similar to Mamdani, Wilson is a self-described socialist who unseated a popular Democratic politician in the last election cycle.

The Daily Mail has reached out to Mamdani for comment on the backlash to his social media post.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood will announce a major shake-up of the asylum system on Monday to try and stem the flood of migrants into the UK via small boats.

In what the Home Office is calling the biggest change to the asylum system since the Second World War, changes to refugee status will mean temporary rather than permanent asylum is granted.

Modelled on the hardline Danish system, one of the toughest asylum regimes in Europe, those who are granted refugee status, who could previously apply to stay here indefinitely after five years, will now be expected to return home as soon as it is safe.

The Danish system was scrutinised by Home Office officials in their hunt for a new approach because it was crucially brought in by a centre left government to fight off challenges from right wing opponents.

Its changes in 2016 saw asylum claims drop to a 40-year low while 95 per cent of its rejected asylum seekers were deported last year.

Under the governments new plans, refugee status will be reviewed every two to three years and refugees could be deported if they do not return immediately when their home country is deemed to be safe.

A new asylum and immigration bill next year will formalise the changes to what the Home Secretary will call on Monday an outdated and broken system that offers migrants excessive generosity.

Leaked details of the proposed policy have already caused uproar among left wing Labour MPs who say it mirrors the policies of the populist right while other critics say it does not go far enough.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood will announce a major shake-up of the asylum system on Monday

The move will try and stem the flow of small boats into the UK and is described by the Home Office as the biggest change to the asylum system since the Second World War'

Labour MP Nadia Whittome has previously said that the Labour Government should not be flirting with a Danish-style asylum shake up, condemning the Danish policies as all undeniably racist.

Ms Whittome, a member of the partys Socialist Campaign Group, said emulating Denmarks stance would be a dangerous path for the party to go down.

But Labour MP Chris Murray, a member of the Home Affairs Select Committee, today hailed Ms Mahmoods forthcoming announcement that the era of permanent status is over as a very significant and positive development in asylum policy because you need to keep reforming the asylum system as times change.

He told BBC Radio 4s Today programme that it seems like Shabana Mahmood is really getting cracking on and getting a grip and compared the new system to the Homes for Ukraine scheme.

The current system was set up in 1945 when people didnt move around as much and clearly they do now, he said.

There is a parallel with the Homes for Ukraine scheme when double the amount came over under it as came on the small boats  but there is very little public outcry about it and people are very comfortable with it because the basis on which it was offered was that people would return if Ukraine gets back to normal.

His comments come after Donald Trump warned the UK it must follow America's hard line on immigration or 'you're not going to have a country left'.

The US President claimed he had reduced people entering the US illegally to 'zero', adding the UK must 'take [migrants] back immediately'.

He also called for Keir Starmer's government to deploy the military to tackle the small boats problem.

Mr Murray, MP for Edinburgh East and Musselburgh and one of Labours new MPs in 2024, said the reforms were needed to stop the pull factors attracting migrants to cross the Channel.

If you dont make these kind of reforms, we wont get a grip on the situation and we will see public support drain, he warned.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Your browser does not support iframes.

You need a refugee system that is fit for purpose in the 21st century.

He also welcomed expected collaboration with European countries, adding: Working with countries especially France but also Germany and Turkey  thats really significant because international immigration is by definition an international phenomenon so you have to work with your allies.

There will also be significant changes here in the UK - whether thats trying to drill down on the hotel issue, trying to get the backlog cleared which has been such a huge millstone around the neck of the asylum system to changing the terms and conditions of refugee status.

It makes it fair for refugees here, fair for communities and fair for the taxpayer and that makes sure this system is robust and resilient.

A Home Office source told the Times today that currently becoming a refugee equals a lifetime of protection in Britain, adding:

Mahmood will change that  making refugee status temporary and subject to regular review. The moment your home country is safe to return to, you will be removed.

New legislation is also expected to reduce another thorn in the side of efforts to remove migrants from the UK  judges all too often wide interpretation of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

British judges will be required to adopt a much tighter interpretation of Articles 8 and 3 which protect family rights and the risk of torture and inhumane or degrading treatment or punishment.

Previous immigration cases where migrants have been allowed leave to remain in the UK on what have been seen as tenuous grounds have invoked public outrage.
Deep in the forests of northern Ukraine, a deadly duel unfolds between old steel and modern drones. The Frontline team meets Ukraine's elite Kraken Regiment as they battle a new Russian incursion near Sumy, the closest front to Kyiv.

Amid shellfire and drone hunts, one Ukrainian tank crew becomes the last line holding the forest. This is their story and the story of the technology reshaping modern war.

Click above to watch the video.
The Michigan Board of Education (MDE) recommended teaching gender identity to middle schoolers, despite parents being opposed to the lessons for being too woke.

In a 6-2 vote on Thursday, the MDE updated its Health Education Standards Guidelines, that now recommends by the end of eighth grade, students are able to define gender identity and expression and sexual orientation.

They will also be able to identify that romantic, emotional, and sexual attractions can happen regardless of the gender of the other person and that 'attractions can change over time.'

Students will also learn the difference between biological sex, gender identity, and gender expression, and be able to identify symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases (STD).

Sexual education will be introduced to students by grade three, although the younger grades will primarily focus on reproductive health, such as menstruation, personal hygiene, and an introduction to STDs.

Supporters of the change hail it as a positive update that will help students who identify as LGBT+ to understand themselves.

'Nobody's teaching your kids gender identity. They already know. They're just too scared to tell you about it. The bottom line is, you don't have to believe in it. You don't have to accept it, but it exists,' Stella Shananaquet told the board during the public comment meeting, according to Bridge Michigan.

More than 100 people signed up to speak, causing the board to limit each person to one minute, versus the usually three minutes.

By eighth grade, the Michigan Board of Education recommends students be able to define gender identity and expression and sexual orientation (pictured: stock image)

Students will also learn about STDs and be able to properly define biological sex, gender identity and gender expression

The decision was handed down after nearly three hours of public comment.

Those who opposed it asked why there was such a 'hurry' to change the educational standards.

Eileen McNeil, the president of Citizens for Traditional Values, said: 'Why now? Why today? Why this? If you really want to address health and the sex ed, let's take time.'

Sheila Cahoon, a Macomb County resident, added: 'We need to keep the gender ideology religion at home and let the parents teach that.'

John Grossenbacher, a candidate for state House and who has a child in the school system, lamented that only parents' feelings should factor into the decision.

He organized a petition urging the board to reject the proposal. It has 1,600 signatures.

Parents online feared it would be a secret ideology push from liberals.

'Im sorry, but Im gonna call out the elephant in the room. The only reason why this is an issue for the Democratic Party is because putting this into the other forum gives them more funding to project their ideology onto the children when the children arent there for that,' Mary A. Combs wrote on Facebook.

Nikki Snyder, a board member, questioned whether MDE could even make the changes as backlash came back

Tom McMillin, a board member, criticized the state for not penalizing schools who don't properly distribute opt-out forms to parents. Parents can opt-out with penalty in the state

'Theyre there to teach them how to read and write and be able to function within society. But our education system has some of our children confused on whether they are a cat or a dog, much less what type of sex they are.'

Nikki Snyder, a board member, questioned whether MDE could even make the changes.

Tom McMillin, a board member, criticized the state law as it doesn't penalize schools that don't properly distribute opt-out forms to parents.

Michigan law does allow parents to opt their students out of sexual education without penalty. The only thing they would be required to learn is about HIV/AIDs, but outside of that, schools and districts have freedom to decide what is taught.

However, if a school does opt to teach sex education, they have to have an advisory board that is made up of students and parents.

Teachers are also prohibited from discussing certain topics, such as abortion as family planning, with students.

More than 1,300 surveys were completed during the public opinion time, with 924 opposing the changes, MDE said.

Some of the reasons included concerns about sexual education and gender topics.

Eileen McNeil, the president of Citizens for Traditional Values, wondered why there was a rush for change on a sensitive topic

John Grossenbacher, a candidate for state House, lamented that only parents' feelings should factor into the decision. He also started a petition to stop the proposal change

However, emailed statements from community members were more positive toward the change, with 1,141 out of more than 2,000 emails supporting it, MDE said.

The reasons parents supported it were inclusivity and a need for an update.

The Daily Mail has contacted the Michigan DOE for comment.
Donald Trump has sparked outrage after targeting GOP rebel Thomas Massie over his new wife after he re-married 16 months after losing his wife of 31 years.

The Kentucky lawmaker, 54, who has led the charge for the government to release the Epstein files, came on the receiving end of Trump's fury on Friday night.

Just moments before he announced he was breaking up with Marjorie Taylor Greene, Trump penned an astonishingly personal broadside mocking Massie, 54, and his 36-year-old wife Carolyn Grace Moffa. It sparked an immediate backlash.

'Did Thomas Massie, sometimes referred to as Rand Paul Jr., because of the fact that he always votes against the Republican Party, get married already??? Boy, that was quick!' the president wrote.

'No wonder the Polls have him at less than an 8% chance of winning the Election,' he added. 'Anyway, have a great life Thomas and (?). His wife will soon find out that shes stuck with a LOSER!'

His comments come less than two weeks after Massie and Moffa married in Pennsylvania, a ceremony held a year after Massie lost his wife, Rhonda - mother of their four children.

One user on X responded: 'This is so far beyond politics ... Mocking someone that got a 2nd chance after losing all that. F*** this guy.'

Another said: 'Thomas Massie was married to the same woman for like 30 years till she DIED. Trump on the other hand is twice divorced - that's two failed marriages. Then he criticizes Massie for getting remarried 1.5 years after his wife died? Trump is sleazy, and he's a big hypocrite.'

Donald Trump slammed Republican Rep Thomas Massie as a 'loser,' targeting both him and his new wife, 36-year-old Carolyn Grace Moffa

Trump has continued to blast former allies in Congress, including Massie, as tensions rose following Democrats release of subpoenaed emails from Epsteins estate that explicitly reference the president

During a Friday interview, Massie said the administration is resisting the release to shield the presidents allies from embarrassment

A third account wrote: 'Regardless how you feel about Massie, this was really below the belt.'

The presidents public outbursts are exposing growing rifts in the MAGA movement after the discharge petition to release the files secured backing from prominent Trump allies Marjorie Taylor Greene, Lauren Boebert and Nancy Mace.

Trumps pledge to personally release the Epstein files, which aided his November White House comeback, lies at the heart of the controversy. Its unfulfilled promise has led Republicans and Democrats alike to call for transparency, alleging a cover-up.

During a Friday interview with a Cincinnati radio station, Massie said the administration is resisting the release to shield the presidents allies from embarrassment.

'They'll claim privately they're trying to avoid embarrassment for some of the president's friends. And they'll say that privately. They won't say that publicly,' Massie said, as reported by Newsweek.

'But I don't think embarrassment is a good reason, like saving somebody from embarrassment is a god reason to protect dozens of men who preyed on underage women in a sex trafficking operation,' he added.

Trump and Greene also traded sharp barbs on social media Friday, a feud that has continued today.

The president - who has long said he cut Epstein off decades ago and did nothing wrong - explosively announced he was 'unendorsing' the Georgia Republican, accusing her of becoming 'left wing.'

He laid out the pair's dirty laundry - including an admission that he advised her not to run for Senate in 2026 - in a lengthy post to Truth Social.

The Kentucky lawmaker, 54, led the charge on pushing to release the government records tied to Epstein and secured backing from Trump allies Marjorie Taylor Greene, Lauren Boebert and Nancy Mace

Trump announced he was 'unendorsing' Georgia Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene

Greene replied with a detailed statement and a text message from Trump, which she claims show his actions were tied to her vote on the Epstein files

'I am withdrawing my support and Endorsement of Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, of the Great State of Georgia,' he wrote.

Trump then listed the accomplishments of his nine months in office before alleging that 'all I see Wacky Marjorie do is COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN!'

He wrote: 'It seemed to all begin when I sent her a Poll stating that she should not run for Senator, or Governor, she was at 12%, and didnt have a chance (unless, of course, she had my Endorsement - which she wasnt about to get!)'

Trump said that because he refused to endorse her ambitions, he doesnt return her calls, calling her 'a ranting lunatic' whose calls he cant take every day.

Within an hour, Greene replied with a detailed statement and a text message from Trump, which she claims show his actions were tied to her vote on the Epstein files.

'President Trump just attacked me and lied about me. I havent called him at all, but I did send these text messages today. Apparently this is what sent him over the edge. The Epstein files,' Greene wrote.

On Saturday morning, Greene shared a measured statement, prompting Trump to respond by mocking her as 'Marjorie Taylor Brown,' adding, 'Green grass turns Brown when it begins to ROT!'

In a follow up post, he also labelled her 'Marjorie Traitor Greene', after saying she 'betrayed the entire Republican Party when she turned Left.'

Trump added: 'Just another Fake politician, no different than Rand Paul Jr. (Thomas Massie), who got caught being a full fledged Republican In Name Only (RINO)! MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!!'
Wikipedia co-founder Jimmy Wales stormed out of an interview after he was asked if he was the sole founder of the free internet encyclopedia.

Wales, who co-founded Wikipedia in 2001 with Larry Sanger, sat down with independent German journalist Tilo Jung in an interview that aired on Friday.

The contentious interview was abruptly ended after Wales introduced himself on the Jung & Naiv web show as the 'founder of Wikipedia.'

'Founder or co-founder?' Jung followed up.

'I don't care. It's the dumbest question in the world,' Wales responded as he sipped his glass of water.

Jung pressed Wales as to whether there was a dispute over his title, and the Wikipedia co-founder denied that there was one.

'There's no dispute. I don't care. So, say what you like. It doesn't matter,' Wales continued.

Jung argued that Wikipedia was founded on the belief that neglecting facts was a problem and insinuated that it was ironic that Wales didn't care about the accuracy of his title.

Wikipedia co-founder Jimmy Wales walked out of an interview before it even started with German journalist Tilo Jung

Wales called Jung's line of questioning 'stupid' and slammed him for asking the 'dumbest question in the world'

Jung appeared confused about Wales' reaction and joked that the interview was the shortest ever on his show

Wales laughed at Jung's argument and fired back that his title wasn't a fact, but a matter of opinion, once again emphasizing that it 'doesn't matter' whether he was referred to as the sole founder or the co-founder.

'But for you - you're the founder,' Jung pressed.

'Can I just say again - it doesn't matter. I've answered your question four times. You know what? I'm done. Thank you,' Wales said as he picked up his phone from the table and left the room.

Jung appeared confused at Wales' decision to walk out of the room just 48 seconds into the chat and asked him what was happening.

'It's stupid. Don't ask me stupid questions,' Wales fired back as he stormed out.

Jung then turned his attention to the camera and joked that the interview was the shortest one his show had ever seen.

The Daily Mail has reached out to Jung and Wales' representation for comment.

The clip has since gone viral on social media, with viewers expressing mixed reactions to the interview.

Jung pressed Wales on whether there was a 'dispute' over his title, which resulted in a contentious exchange that cut the interview short

Wales co-founded Wikipedia in 2001 with Larry Sanger, who left the company the following year

'That's how I act when I really don't care and it really doesn't matter, too,' one comment sarcastically noted.

'What was so provocative about that question?' another asked.

Wikipedia was founded in 2001 by Sanger and Wales after the site's predecessor, Nupedia, struggled to find success.

Sanger left the publication a year later. In an essay featured in the Free Press from September, Sanger argued that since he left, Wikipedia has lowered its standards in favor of progressive ideology.

However, the Washington Post wrote in October that Sanger was ousted from the company by Wales after he helped launch it.

Since Sanger's elusive departure, he has been a vocal critic of how the site operates. He told the Washington Post: 'Wikipedia is like a bus careening down the highway without a driver and slamming into innocent people.'

Sanger has also argued that the site has a left-leaning bias on issues such as crime, religion, and climate change.

Unlike his estranged co-founder, Wales has remained committed to Wikipedia's mission and serves as Chair Emeritus of the Wikimedia Foundation.

He has, however, acknowledged the volunteer encyclopedia's shortcomings, telling the New York Times in October: 'Wikipedia isnt as good as I want it to be.

'And thats part of why people do have a certain amount of trust for us, because we try to be really transparent.'

In his recent interviews with The Times and Time Magazine, Wales was described as a co-founder of Wikipedia.

However, many viewers supported Wales' decision to walk out of the interview with Jung because the question about his title was repeated multiple times.

There has been controversy as to why Sanger (right) is no longer affiliated with Wikipedia

Jung is known for his irreverent approach to interviewing, cheekily naming his show, Jung & Naiv, which translates to 'young and naive' in English

'By far the best way to deal with Tilo Jung, hats off to Jimmy Wales!' one comment read.

'What he didn't like, was the interviewer hassling him with the same question 4 times,' another added.

Jung is popular in Germany for his irreverent approach to interviewing, purposefully asking simple questions that often irritate or throw his guests off guard.

'The whole idea is that I play a bad reporter, whos unprepared, whos not very good at his job, who asks seemingly naive questions,' he told the Nieman Lab, a journalism watchdog organization at Harvard, in 2015.

The show's title, Jung & Naiv, translates to young and naive in English and is a play on words of his last name.
Donald Trump slapped Marjorie Taylor Greene with two of his trademark insulting nicknames as their war of words continued into a second day.

Trump posted on Truth Social shortly after Greene shared a measured statement of her own on Saturday morning, following their online screaming match Friday.

In it, he branded the Georgia Representative as 'Marjorie Taylor Brown' adding: 'Green grass turns Brown when it begins to ROT!'.

In a follow up post, he also labelled her 'Marjorie Traitor Greene', after saying she 'betrayed the entire Republican Party when she turned Left.'

Trump added: 'Just another Fake politician, no different than Rand Paul Jr. (Thomas Massie), who got caught being a full fledged Republican In Name Only (RINO)! MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!!'

The president announced on Friday that he was withdrawing his support of the former MAGA darling, saying she was 'a ranting lunatic.'

Greene fired back by sharing screenshots of texts she sent to Trump about the importance of the Epstein files, causing an all-out MAGA civil war.

She joins the likes of 'Sleepy Joe Biden', 'Crazy Hillary', 'Ron DeSanctimonious', and 'Lyin' Kamala Harris', who were all given their own nickname by Trump.

Trump branded the Georgia Representative as 'Marjorie Taylor Brown' in a post to Truth Social on Saturday

On Saturday, Greene offered her thanks to those who had reached out in support of her, after Trump pulled his support from her

Prior to his put down of Greene on Saturday, she took to social media to offer her thanks to those who had reached out in support of her after the explosive events of the night before.

She said: 'I want to thank everyone who texted and posted and commented support for me, you all are so kind and I appreciate, love, and support you too.

'I never thought that fighting to release the Epstein files, defending women who were victims of rape, and fighting to expose the web of rich powerful elites would have caused this, but here we are. And it truly speaks for itself.

'There needs to be a new way forward. The toxic political industrial complex thrives on ripping us all apart but never delivers anything good for the American people, whom I love.

'The PIC tells us to hate each other, fundraises off why we have to hate each other, and pits Americans against each other to the point of violence and nearing civil war. This is all so wrong.

'We can have our own differences and differing opinions but we can still love and respect one another.

'We have far more in common than we have apart. I believe in the American people more than I believe in any leader or political party and the American people deserve so much better than how they have been treated by both sides of the aisle.

'The way forward is America First America Only. And that may be the most dangerous pursuit of all.'

Happier times: Greene is seen here alongside Trump in a 2022 photo

Greene and Trump traded social media barbs on Friday, with Greene sharing screenshots of texts she sent to Trump about the Epstein files.

Trump kickstarted the spat - including an admission that he advised her not to run for Senate in 2026 - on Truth Social earlier that evening.

She advised him to 'lean in' to former President Bill Clinton's connections to the pedophile, Trump ordered an investigation into Clinton on Friday.

'Epstein was the spider that wove the web of the deep state. Lean into it,' she said.

In a second screenshot, Greene responded to a text from 'NH' that appeared to be fuming about her Trump criticisms, stating: 'THE JEFFREY EPSTEIN HOAX.'

Greene replied: 'In every single interview I have done I have defended President Trump.

'I've said over and over the women say he did nothing wrong and their attorney says he's the only one who helped.

'And the Democrats had 4 years to release the files but did nothing', NH is an apparent reference to the president's assistant Natalie Harp.

Greene adds: 'Stop ignoring the women. Many of them literally voted for President Trump and say so publicly. Them being raped as teenagers is not a hoax.'

In a lengthy statement on Friday, she said Trump was specifically gunning for her to scare other Republicans before next weeks vote to release the Epstein files.

She added: 'Its astonishing really how hard hes fighting to stop the Epstein files from coming out that he actually goes to this level.'

Greene said she had given Trump 'too much of my precious time, too much of my own money, and fought harder for him' when others abandoned him.
Comedian Bill Maher blasted President Donald Trump over the endless distractions from the public demand to release the Jeffrey Epstein files.

Maher, 69, spent the majority of his opening monologue on his show Friday talking about the infamous files and giving the president a little advice.

'I feel like I've seen this movie four times,' Maher said of the series of small releases from the files investigating Epstein.

'Trump doesn't talk about Trump that much,' he joked about the number of times the president is mentioned in the files.

There's been huge bipartisan demands for the files to be released in full after Trump promised to do so and then rolled back. Speculation into why he changed his mind has run rampant amongst the American public.

But the sheer existence of them has people wanting to take a look for themselves and are increasingly becoming unhappy that the Trump Administration is blocking them.

'This is why Hillary [Clinton] destroyed her server with a hammer,' Maher said. 'Sometimes youve just got to go to the hammer, people. The hammer!'

He admitted he believed, alongside Democrats, that Trump is 'working very hard' to stop the files from being released.

Maher said Donald Trump used the government shutdown, moving Ghislaine Maxwell to a cushier prison, and bombing drug boats as distractions from the Jeffrey Epstein files

Maher and Democrats believe Trump is 'working very hard' to stop the files from being released

One of the things Maher suggested could have been a distraction was moving Epstein's lover, Ghislaine Maxwell, to a 'cushier prison.'

'She's apparently getting unlimited toilet paper, this is what I'm reading out,' Maher said. 'She's getting unlimited toilet paper. Why help her? She was part of a pedophile ring!

'I mean, [Barack] Obama was president for eight years. I don't remember him ever saying: "Hey, how's Jared from Subway doing? Is he getting enough toilet paper?"'

Jared Scott Fogle was a spokesperson for Subway from 2000 to 2015, until the FBI convicted him as a child sex offender.

Maher also mentioned the 43-day government shutdown, which was the longest in history.

'All that really happened was that they canceled some flights and some poor people went hungry, although not hungry enough to eat the leftover airline food,' Maher said.

'But now that that's over, we can get back to the important business: Reading a dead pervert's email.'

On X, Maher let his fans in on another distraction he believed the US government had used to steer focus away from the files.

'This is why Hillary [Clinton] destroyed her server with a hammer,' Maher said. 'Sometimes youve just got to go to the hammer, people. The hammer!'

'She's apparently getting unlimited toilet paper, this is what I'm reading out,' Maher said of Maxwell (far right, with Epstein, Trump, and Melania Trump in 2000)

'The US has now killed 80 people in drone strikes on boats allegedly carrying drugs. There must be easier ways to win a Nobel Peace Prize,' he wrote.

Between September and November, the US military carried out several strikes on boats allegedly carrying drugs to America.

Four strikes were carried out in late October.

Tons of footage have been blasted across social media of the various attacks the military has carried out.

Trump has targeted countries he has accused of protecting cartel members seeking to ship drugs into the US, including Venezuela.

The US currently has around 10,000 troops in the Caribbean - the largest force since the Cold War, including multiple warships, nuclear submarines, F-35 fighter jets, MQ-9 Reaper drones, P-8 Poseidon reconnaissance planes, and B-52 bombers.

Despite reopening the government, Trump is still trying to dissuade Republicans from voting to release the Epstein files next week, according to Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, who he has recently stopped backing.

'Hes coming after me hard to make an example to scare all the other Republicans before next week's vote to release the Epstein files,' she wrote on X.

Despite reopening the government, Trump is still trying to dissuade Republicans from voting to release the Epstein files next week, according to Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, who he recently called names

'Its astonishing really how hard hes fighting to stop the Epstein files from coming out that he actually goes to this level.'

Trump posted on Truth Social shortly after Greene, following their online screaming match on Friday which then entered a second day Saturday.

In it, he branded the Georgia Representative as 'Marjorie Taylor Brown,' adding: 'Green grass turns Brown when it begins to ROT!'

In a follow-up post, he also labelled her 'Marjorie Traitor Greene,' after saying she 'betrayed the entire Republican Party when she turned Left.'
Bridget Jones is set to be immortalised with a statue in the heart of the city where her chaotic life of singledom played out, attracting millions of fans along the way.

A bronze of the much-loved fictional character modelled on the role played by Renee Zellweger for two decades will be unveiled in London's West End on Monday.

Appropriately, the quirky rom com heroine will become part of a film trail in the heart of London's film and theatre district in Leicester Square - alongside Paddington and Harry Potter - celebrating a century of British cinema.

And author Helen Fielding, who first brought Bridget to life in a newspaper column and then a best-selling series of books, the first one published in 1996, revealed that the statue even includes a discreet homage to the characters legendary 'mummy pants', worn underneath her clothes.

The description for Bridget's favourite big support knickers passed into common parlance when her lothario boss Daniel Cleaver, famously played by actor Hugh Grant, uttered the phrase 'hello mummy' when he first came across them during a fumble in the first of the four Bridget Jones films.

Giving a sneak preview of the statue, Ms Fielding said: 'It's got Renee's head from the first movie and I think she's wearing the mummy pants because she's got a very flat stomach!'

She told the BBC it was 'wonderful' to have a character like Bridget 'who started life so unassumingly in an anonymous column in a newspaper endure for three decades and end up as a statue in Leicester Square'

Bridget Jones is set to be immortalised with a statue in the heart of the city where her chaotic life of singledom played out, attracting millions of fans along the way

A bronze of the much-loved fictional character modelled on the role played by Renee Zellweger for two decades will be unveiled in London 's West End on Monday

Appropriately, the quirky rom com heroine will become part of a film trail in the heart of London's film and theatre district in Leicester Square - alongside Paddington and Harry Potter - celebrating a century of British cinema

'She's just an emotionally honest, authentic, slightly messy, human, normal person who has a great sense of humour. That's very British - and to have that celebrated alongside Paddington Bear is a great honour,' she added.

Ms Zellweger and Ms Fielding are expected to be at the unveiling on Monday which will be hosted by actress Sally Phillips who plays Bridget's loyal friend Shazzer.

Actors Chiwetel Ejiofor and Leo Woodall, who play Bridget's love interests in the latest film released earlier this year, will also attend.

Ms Fielding said Bridget was now a role model to a whole new Gen Z audience and she believed it was because they were under so much pressure to be perfect that the character made a refreshing change for them.

'When Bridget first took off, I didn't understand why but after a bit I understood it was because she was touching on the gap of how we all feel we are supposed to be and how we really are inside  the side of us we show to our friends and the people who love us just as we are.

'For the new generation of young women, it is so much harder for them particularly with social media than it was for Bridget  they have so many images of perfection thrown at them and filtered images and they still worry about their shape and on top of that they have the body positivity movement so secretly they are also feeling guilty about worrying about their shape,' she told Radio 4's Today programme.

'There's a great deal of pressure on them and it makes me happy when they come up to me to have their books signed and talk to me about the idea that just being a person and being kind and being good to your friends and being good enough and having a sense of humour and sense of resilience  these are the important things in life and not how they present to the world.'

Next year marks a quarter of a century since the first film  Bridget Jones's Diary  was released in 2001, charting Bridget's disastrous love life torn between unfaithful Cleaver and the man who turns out to be her ultimate partner  the loyal Mr Darcy, played by Colin Firth.

The film's sequels Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason, Bridget Jones's Baby and Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy chart her life as a wife and mother and then widow. The most recent film sees Bridget going full circle and returning to life as a singleton hilariously learning to navigate the dating scene again.
The two yoga entrepreneurs behind what furious customers dubbed the 'UK's Fyre Festival' left clients and traders more than 218,765 out of pocket, damning new figures show.

Roman and Ella Wroath founded their firm Soul Circus Limited in 2016, before eventually hosting their first festival two years later.

It was described as 'both revitalising and energising in equal measure', but for their customers, the event was anything but.

Year after year, yoga enthusiasts descended on the Cotswolds to participate in the event advertised as having 'the most sought after' instructors and practitioners.

But in 2024, things quickly went awry as the date for their sixth festival, with attendees told the date was changed before it was cancelled altogether.

There was no consistency when it came to refunds and rolled-over tickets, with some not offered the latter and others unaware that the 2025 event was no longer happening.

Some did not receive any notification from the business at all, so out of the loop, they arrived on the day of the festival and were greeted by an empty field.

And when disgruntled customers attempted chargebacks, Soul Circus LTD contested them, with Roman threatening festivalgoers with legal action when contacted.

But now a statement of affairs published to their Companies House profile has laid bare the epic scale of firms, traders and customers left out of pocket.

Roman and Ella Wroath (pictured) - the organisers of Soul Circus - which has been dubbed by some clients as the 'UK's Fyre Festival'

Many believed the 2025 event was still on until they found out Soul Circus was being liquidated (Pictured: Ella and Roman Wroath laughing on a yacht)

 Slide me  A before and after comparison showing what the field looked like (Pictured left: Soul Circus when it went ahead in a previous year, right: The empty field clients found in 2024)

The total amount Soul Circus owes to creditors was initially 401,903.75. However, a 80,000 tax bill, credit cards and various other loans taken out by the company lowered this total to 218,715.

Among those owed a slice of the shocking six-figure sum are 252 customers, 32 traders, two employees, as well as various other firms.

In the final account before the company's dissolution, the liquidator said several aspects of the Wroaths' conduct warranted further investigation.

This included the high number of customer complaints, as well as the non-payment of refunds, and the retention of crown monies.

Challengeable drawings and expenses when trading, as well as fraudulent information provided in a Bounce Back Loan Scheme during COVID, were also listed.

Soul Circus's Statement of Affairs show the company had taken out 44,296 in Bounce Back Loans from Natwest.

To add insult to injury for those who tried desperately to recoup their funds, the two yogis had an active yachting company, Galaxia International, at the time.

Described as an 'eBrockage' and an 'eMarina' introducing 'waves of change', the company has previously organised events in the sunny Costa del Sol.

When the Daily Mail visited the business website, it read 'new website coming soon'.

However, there are currently no directors for the firm, with all persons connected to the business having resigned, according to Companies House.

The Soul Circus website was wiped from the face of the internet. Tickets for Soul Circus 2025 were also being advertised on the site until December 4 of last year.

As of March 2025, it was also understood that while the pair are currently in the UK, they had a residence in Portugal.

'We refuse to deliver anything less than the exceptional experience you deserve, leading us to this decision,' the statement read.

'We kindly ask you to please allow us some time and space to work through the current situation, and we will provide further information in the next 45 - 60 days.'

It comes after disappointed festivalgoers waited over a year in the hopes they would get refunds for their purchase, which for some amounted to thousands of pounds.

Helen Holland and Lianna Greene spent 225 and 1,395 on tickets respectively.

For 45-year-old Ms Greene, the Soul Circus festival was meant to be a surprise get-away for one of her closest friends, as she bought nine tickets at a discount for the entire group, with a couple of bottles of prosecco thrown in with her order.

But just four weeks before they were due to set off on the relaxing and holistic weekend, she received an email from Soul Circus saying the event had been cancelled.

The email, which was sent on July 5 extended an apology from the firm to their 'cherished community', saying that it was with 'heavy hearts' the festival had been cancelled due to 'a dramatic rise in operational costs'.

Mr Wroath at the luxury Octant Hotel in Portugal - which costs upwards of 200 per night for two adults

Festivalgoers attending a yoga session at Soul Circus festival in 2023 - the year before the 2024 event

Due to the short notice, Ms Greene couldn't cancel the AirBnB, so the group decided to have a quiet weekend in Gloucestershire for her friend's birthday, as she patiently waited for her lump sum to be refunded.

After a lot of chasing and 'back-and-forth', the Hertfordshire woman eventually received a Google form where they could request a refund from Soul Circus.

But when she logged into her online portal via the festival's website, it suggested she wasn't owed a single penny, so she submitted a chargeback with Barclaycard.

By this point she had given her friends the money for their tickets back, leaving herself out of pocket by 1,395 because she believed she would be refunded.

But the company contested the charge, suggesting she ordered tickets on a sale or return basis for Rise Festival in Ibiza - an entirely different event she had never attended or purchased tickets for.

'For me to pay everybody back, I was putting myself at risk if Barclaycard wouldn't budge,' she told the Daily Mail.

'After investigating, I feel I am in a predicament. I have just found out the company is trying to go into liquidation, and you're kind of wondering if I will get the refund.

'I have got real mixed emotions because we were doing something nice for our friend, which on paper seemed like it was going to be amazing.

Some yogis even took to social media to inform others they had travelled to the wellness weekend in August and were greeted by an empty field and a confused farmer last summer (Pictured: Ella Wroath)

A large welcome sign seen in 2023 welcoming yogis to the wellbeing event

'But the fact that people can just run away with people's money whilst everyone has paid into a festival that didn't happen and have been fobbed off.

'This is our hard-earned money and our downtime, which is special to all of us - so the fact they are able to just get away with it, is just beyond words really.'

She added: 'The way the whole thing has been handled is really inappropriate. It sits really uncomfortably to be honest.'

Single mother Helen Holland, 36, previously had a 'very positive' experience attending the holistic festival in 2022, so didn't think twice about handing over 225 for a ticket.

But the event that for her was based on 'community and connection' turned into a disaster in 2024, leaving her out of pocket and her once happy memories soured.

The yoga teacher from Hertfordshire was offered to roll over her ticket when the event was cancelled in 2024, but opted for a refund.

Ms Holland said: 'They asked the whole time for patience and asked people to give them time to sort everything out, and being the trusting person I am, I believed them and waited for them to get in touch.'

However, neither Soul Circus nor its directors got in touch with the single mother, who found out there was a form to apply for a 'discretionary refund' via a friend.

In 2024, Soul Circus changed its Terms and Conditions page six separate times, according to its website's data history.

The field nestled in the Cotswolds should have been teeming with yogis but instead customers were greeted by a confused farmer and an empty field

Attendees enjoying a yoga lesson at a Soul Circus festival that went ahead in 2023

Companies can give refunds at their own discretion when they are not legally obligated to give customers their money back.

If a festival or event is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances, customers have the right to a full refund, except in specific instances outlined in the terms and conditions under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

On September 12, 2024, the following line had been added to the terms and conditions page: 'If Soul Circus agrees to a discretionary refund, [the] refund will be provided within 12 months.'

By this point, the event, which was due to take place in August, had already been cancelled, with many people still waiting for their refunds.

'I don't think people should be able to treat others like that, especially in the name of being healthy and looking out for each other, it makes it that little bit extra more sore,' Helen said.

'Anybody who believed that they would stick to their word has obviously been stung quite badly.'

Now the single mother has become 'very wary' of parting with any money, adding: 'As time goes on, I just feel disappointed.

'I feel incredibly frustrated that they can get away with behaving in that manner, and a complete lack of empathy for anyone else

'It makes me wary of companies in the future - and it's just left me feeling sad, to be honest.

'Seeing their posts online - it just feels like they are sat on a yacht somewhere drinking away everyone's money.'

A landscape picture showing tents and festivalgoers at Soul Circus when it went ahead in 2022

A light up van and decoration at Soul Circus festival 2023 - the year prior to the cancelled event

But it wasn't only customers who were left out of pocket, herbal tea business Mother Cuppa and its owner, Candice Mason, almost went bust when Roman and Ella's firm charged her new company twice for a pitch - and refused to provide a refund.

The 42-year-old first contacted Roman in November 202,3 enquiring about prices for a stand at the festival in the hopes of growing her clientele and thus her business.

She wanted to pay her 600 in staggered payments but was charged the full amount, with the additional instalment plans still being taken from her account during the Christmas period in 2023.

'I kept emailing him, saying, You need to stop the instalment payments and refund me the additional payments back - but he failed to do that,' she said.

'It continued to take the instalment payment from my bank accounts, and for seven months I emailed asking for the refund for the duplicate payments.'

The entrepreneur claims Roman tried to arrange a phone call between her and his wife, Ella, which left her confused: 'I didn't need a phone call, just need[ed] my money refunded. I want[ed] my money back.'

'My business was only a year old when I booked it, and I didn't have a lot of money, so it was a big risk to book things like that.'

She added: 'It caused me cash flow problems, I borrowed from my mum for my business, and it really broke my confidence and trust.'

Down by 1,200 in total, Candice said she was ignored for weeks at a time, whilst claiming that when Roman did eventually reply, he allegedly told her she would not get her money back and that she could not cancel due to the terms and conditions.

She later began court proceedings against Soul Circus Ltd in July, where neither Ella nor Roman attended any of the mediation or court hearings. Their response to the court proceedings referenced Soul Circus's terms and conditions.

Down by 1,400 in total, Candice Mason (pictured) said she was ignored for weeks at a time, and had to take the duo to small claims court in an attempt to get her money back

Despite a court county judgment (CCJ) being placed against Roman and Ella's company Soul Circus LTD, Candice (Pictured) has not had her money back

The judge later ruled in Candice's favour, ordering Soul Circus's directors, who were not present, to pay her the 1,200 plus court fees totalling to 1,491.16.

Despite a court county judgment (CCJ) being placed against Roman and Ella's company, Soul Circus, the duo have still not paid Candice her money back.

In December, Candice e-mailed Roman informing him she was due her money, in line with the CCJ: 'I wasn't going to let this drop, it was a lot of money for me.

'I got a sh***y reply that basically said along the lines of "I'm going to liquidate the company. You're going to get instructions from the insolvency people".'

The Daily Mail has also seen correspondence where Roman threatened Candice with defamation after she contacted him asking for a refund.

She was also never informed by Soul Circus that the event was no longer going ahead, despite never officially cancelling her space.

'I am really angry, and it takes quite a lot to make me angry. It's the audacity of it, that is not a professionally run operation and he is not a professional person,' she said.

'It's left me feeling bitter and twisted.

'The money I lost was a month's worth of stock - I didn't have enough money to stock, and he caused me a massive problem.

'It's left me feeling like I can't trust event companies in that way anymore. I don't want to do them anymore. I was so stressed at one point.

'And the fact that the whole event is geared around physical and mental well-being within the industry, and this is so anti that experience.

'He's completely taken the p**s because he's picking and choosing which bank to argue with or not. I cannot believe he's been allowed to have another business.'

Due to Candice taking the pair to small claims court, there is currently a county court judgment (CCJ) against Soul Circus Limited.

Helen Holland and Lianna Greene (Pictured with red hair with friends in Gloucestershire after the festival was cancelled) have been waiting well over a year for their refunds, spending 225 and 1,395 on tickets respectively

Soul Circus contested Lianna's (pictured with red hair on the failed SoulCircus weekend) charge - suggesting she issued tickets on a sale or return basis for a Rise Festival in Ibiza - an entirely different event she had never attended or purchased tickets to

A CCJ is a court order to pay a debt or compensate someone, and it can, in some cases, impact your credit rating.

However, Roman and Ella Wroath are no strangers to CCJs, having previously had one placed against them personally for not paying rent to their previous landlord.

The individual, who wishes to remain anonymous, told the Daily Mail the duo almost left their family on the brink of financial ruin during the height of COVID.

The Wroaths began renting the London flat at  2,275 a month in October 2019, initially 'pushing' for a two-year contract, which was whittled down to 12 months.

The landlords assumed they had done everything right, conducting the proper checks on the couple, who passed with flying colours.

They claim to have noticed some 'red flags' a couple of months in, due to alleged minor damage and noise complaints from neighbours, but the situation went completely awry in March when COVID-19 hit.

They alleged: '[Ella] called my husband in tears and we bought it because they said: "Oh, we've lost everything. We can't pay the rent. We want to go".'

However, the Wroaths were in the middle of their year-long contract and were obligated to pay until they managed to find someone else to take over their contract.

They even tried setting up a payment plan for Ella and Roman, but no payments had come through, and the pair had stopped responding, with the landlords later realising the duo had abandoned the property.

'After several months, we came to realise that they had no intention to pay. It was thousands of pounds by then, and we realised we were in deep trouble,' they said.

'There's no way I could get a job in lockdown because everybody was being laid off or on furlough.'

They added: 'The stress was so much that I was covered in psoriasis. I couldn't even open my eyes.

Now those who have been wronged by Soul Circus and its directors Ella and Roman have formed a group created by Jeni, who was a loyal attendee of Soul Circus festival (Pictured: The festival in 2023)

'My entire body was covered. I'm still suffering from it. And honestly, we thought we were going to be financially ruined.'

Eventually, they took the Wroaths to court, but due to Covid-19, a process that should have taken four to six months ended up taking three years, meaning the landlords had to part with even more money.

Despite being ordered in March 2023 by the court to pay their landlords a sum of 9,874.16, they did not do so before the 30-day deadline, meaning this CCJ is currently still on the Wroaths' credit record.

After causing their landlords significant stress, they paid the full amount ordered by the courts via an instalment plan.

'Every month when the money came through, we were surprised. It was a bittersweet satisfaction because it had taken so long, and the fact that the responsibility of doing all the work is on the victim,' they said.

'Make no mistake ,they were living the best life, while we were the ones who were at home worried about money, not sleeping, dealing with psoriasis and ill health.

'It also meant that we didn't enjoy our life; it sucked out all the joy. We could have spent time with our elderly parents and been with them.

'We could have been with my father-in-law, who died from a sudden fall, but instead we were busy doing all the paperwork and speaking to lawyers.'

They added: 'The [flat] was going to be an investment for my future and it turned out to be a complete disaster.'

'We sold it. We haven't made much money on it, but just the relief of not having to deal with that nonsense was enough for us.'

Recalling the ordeal, they said they ultimately 'felt betrayed', tearfully adding: 'I think what's most hurtful is that they just don't care.

'Even to this day, I must say I have lost my faith in human beings.

'It's broken something inside of us, and it's very sad, because we have always been really good people. Even now, I just don't look at people the same way.'

Those wronged by Roman and Ella formed a group created by Jeni, who was a loyal attendee of Soul Circus festival, as they tried to get their money back as the company began its liquidation process.

The group now has around 296 members, some of whom have received their refunds, many of whom are still out of pocket and some who haven't been notified about the company going into liquidation despite technically being creditors.

Jeni wanted to cancel her tickets after being 'very annoyed' that the 2024 dates had been changed last minute - little did she know she would have to fight tooth and nail for almost a year to get 198 back.

Their previous landlord has also come forward to the Daily Mail to tell how they were left on the brink of financial ruin due to the duo's refusal to pay the rent for their London flat, leaving them out of pocket to the tune of five figures (Pictured: Soul Circus Festival in 2023)

After receiving no money, she claimed a chargeback in August, which did not land in her account until December due to there being a contest from Soul Circus LTD.

Jeni told the Daily Mail 'I suppose it shocked me that they weren't forthcoming with a refund because they had made the error.

'It's a massive juxtaposition that a wellbeing festival that focuses on wellness and wellbeing and health has been so detrimental to so many people.'

The Daily Mail previously attempted to contact Ella and Roman Wroath for comment, but they did not reply.

We also approached Galaxia International, Soul Circus LTD and the Financial Ombudsman for comment.

Companies House and the Insolvency Service declined to comment.

Detective Superintendent Gary Miles, speaking on behalf of Action Fraud, said: 'Action Fraud can confirm that it received NFRC240906895001 on 18 September 2024. It was assessed by the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) at the City of London Police, but has not been passed to a police force for investigation.

'It will continue to be reviewed against new information received from Action Fraud reports. Over 850,000 reports are made to the NFIB every year, and not all cases can be passed on for further investigation.

'Reports are assessed against several criteria, but unfortunately, not every case of fraud will be sent to police forces for investigative opportunities. There are different ways a report can be dealt with when it cannot be passed to a police force.

'These include the National Economic Crime Victim Care Unit NECVCU) helping victims to reclaim monies lost.

'Reports are vital in helping the police develop intelligence and take disruptive action to prevent other people from falling victim, such as taking down websites, telephone numbers and email addresses linked to fraud.

'Action Fraud can also confirm it received another report, NFRC250107146858, on 29 January 2025, which is currently being assessed by the NFIB.'

It is understood that neither Action Fraud nor the NFIB have investigative powers.
Labour's Clive Lewis has become the first MP to call for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to be replaced by Andy Burnham.

Speaking to Channel 4 on Friday night, Mr Lewis said the Labour Party must put 'country before party' and boot out Starmer in favour of the current Mayor of Greater Manchester.

The MP for Norwich South broke ranks from the rest of his party for the first time in September, when he called for the Prime Minister to stand down.

But last night he became the first to actively endorse leadership rival Mr Burnham, in a week in which a briefing to journalists put the Prime Minister in a precarious position ahead of this month's Budget.

Mr Clive said: 'We need to do what the Prime Minister once said, which is put country before party. And frankly, party before personal ambition.

'I just don't see how this can stagger on without any kind of resolution on the horizon.

'And I think the Labour party, the Labour grandees, the men in grey suits now really, seriously think, how can we get Andy Burnham back in to this parliamentary Labour Party and let him step up and become the next Prime Minister?

'That's my personal view. I know it won't be shared by everyone, but I don't see many other options.'

Labour's Clive Lewis (pictured) has become the first MP to call for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to be replaced by Andy Burnham

Mr Burnham was previously accused of angling for the top job in the days leading up to the Labour Party Conference earlier in the autumn

Andy Burnham has not commented on Mr Lewis's remarks.

It comes after Mr Lewis first called for Starmer to go on September 12, the day after former US ambassador Lord Peter Mandelson was sacked over his friendship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

He told the BBC's The Week In Westminster programme at the time: 'You see a Labour Prime Minister who feels that he's lost control within the first year.

'This isn't navel-gazing. This is me thinking about my constituents, this country, and the fact that the person who is eight points ahead of us is Nigel Farage. That terrifies me. It terrifies my constituents, and it terrifies a lot of people in this country.

'We don't have the luxury of carrying on this way with someone who I think increasingly, I'm sorry to say, just doesn't seem up to the job.'

Mr Lewis cemented his position as a troublemaker for the government with his comments yesterday, which came at a particularly challenging moment for Starmer following a 'toxic' briefing to journalists.

In what appeared to be an effort to help shore up the Prime Minister's position, No.10 briefed journalists that he would strongly fight back against any attempt to oust him, and criticised cabinet ministers including the Health Secretary Wes Streeting for allegedly making moves to mount a leadership challenge.

But it completely backfired with the briefing making front-page news across British media and instead gave the impression Starmer does not have control of his Downing Street staff.

Speaking to Channel 4 on Friday night, Mr Lewis said the Labour Party must put 'country before party' and boot out Starmer (pictured)

Starmer claimed after the fact he did not authorise any briefing himself, and many MPs were quick to point the finger at his unpopular chief of staff Morgan McSweeney.

The Prime Minister cleared Mr McSweeney of involvement, but it has not stopped disgruntled MPs clamouring for the chief of staff to go.

Meanwhile Health Secretary Streeting denied any plot to unseat his party leader and accused those behind the anonymous briefing as having 'watched too much Celebrity Traitors'.

The Prime Minister has since phoned Mr Streeting to apologise, it is understood.

The row has left Starmer once again facing speculation on whether he will make it to the next election as Labour Leader, with Mr Burnham's name cropping up likely to be another blow.

Mr Burnham was previously accused of angling for the top job in the days leading up to the Labour Party Conference earlier in the autumn.

The Manchester mayor, who twice failed to be elected leader of the party when he was an MP, accused Sir Keir of leading Labour into a mood of 'alienation and demoralisation' since entering No.10.

He said he had been approached by MPs who wanted him to mount a leadership challenge and outlined his own tax-and-spend manifesto that included 40billion of borrowing to fund nationalising housebuilding.

It prompted a huge backlash from ministers who pointed out his term as Manchester mayor runs until 2028.

As the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Mr Burnham is not a sitting MP.
Disney Destiny is the newest cruise ship in Disney Cruise Line's fleet. The ship was christened a few days ago at Port Everglades in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

Disney Cruise Line invited Cruise Fever to attend the christening and the first three-day preview cruise on the ship. After spending a day and a half on board the vessel, here are my first impressions of Disney Destiny.

I'll start off by saying this. I've taken around 90 cruises, and this is the best cruise ship for families I've ever sailed on.

Ship

This is the first Disney cruise I've taken in nine years. I forgot how well Disney does everything, down to the smallest little details on the ship.

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From The Haunted Mansion Parlor to the Sanctum to the Oceaneer Club, I am loving the themed spaces all around the vessel. But more on those places later.

I love how they play Disney music all around the ship, from the stateroom hallways to the Grand Hall where I am sitting right now. It adds to the entire Disney experiences that you get on board.

You can take a photo tour of the ship that we posted on our Facebook page below.

Cabin

We are staying in a Family Balcony Cabin on Deck 11. Since this is my first Disney cruise in nine years, I forgot how nice it is to have a split bathroom when traveling with my family.

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The room is extremely spacious and love how it has a curtain to separate the bed from where the kids sleep. The extra privacy is much appreciated.

There are also an abundance of storage space and the best stateroom for families we've ever stayed in.

Oceaneer Club

Since I am traveling with my wife and five-year old son, I will focus both on what the ship offers for adults and the amazing activities and spaces for kids.

I have never seen such a large space dedicated for children on a cruise ship. During the open house, I was able to tour the kids club and was blown away. I love the Star Wars Cargo Hold and the Avengers rooms.

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Since my son is five, he has yet to watch Star Wars, but I can't wait to watch my favorite movies with him when he gets a bit older. He LOVES the Star Wars room in the Oceaneer Club.

We went to pick him up from the club one day and the workers told us that they were trying to pry him away from the Star Wars room, he loved it that much.

Also, the slide kids can use to enter the club straight from the Grand Hall is absolutely genius. It's the only way my son wants to enter it.

You can see 15 photos of this incredible space in the embed below.

Before I wrap up this quick first impressions of the ship, I wanted to briefly mention a few other things about this ship.

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Last night, we had dinner at Pride Lands, Feast of the Lion King. This new dinner concept from Disney was incredible and really made dinner go by so fast. They sang all of the songs we love from Lion King, and everyone enjoyed it. Tonight, we dine at Worlds of Marvel and we can't wait!

We also attended Disney's new show Hercules and it's a must see when sailing on the ship. Tonight is Frozen and we are so excited to see it after Hercules last night.

For those who know me and have been following Cruise Fever for the past 14 years, you probably know I'm not the biggest fan of cruise shows. They generally just don't interest me much.

However, I love the shows on Disney cruise ships. They are so well done with great storylines that we all know and love.

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Also, the crew members have been absolutely incredible so far and have gone above and beyond everyone on the ship.

I am going to go and explore more of this amazing new ship from Disney Cruise Line. We have 24 hours left and I want to make sure I see everything this ship has to offer.

I will have more on Disney Destiny when I get home from this inaugural cruise on Disney Destiny so stay tuned for that.

You can follow along on my cruise on all of Cruise Fever's social media accounts, we are @CruiseFever on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok.
A British woman has been killed after Storm Claudia winds ripped through a Portuguese holiday campsite.

The 85-year-old had been reported missing at the campsite in Albufeira in the southern region of the Algarve and was later found dead.

Officials confirmed the woman was caught up in the violent winds that tore through the site this morning.

Regional civil protection commander Vitor Vaz Pinto said the storm triggered widespread damage across the area, leaving dozens of people hurt.

Two people suffered serious injuries, while the rest sustained more minor wounds. Those affected include Portuguese, Spanish and the British national.

Portuguese broadcaster SIC described the weather event as an 'extreme wind phenomenon' that struck at around 10am, sending debris flying and causing structural damage across the site.

Two people suffered serious injuries, while the rest sustained more minor wounds

Portuguese broadcaster SIC described the weather event as an 'extreme wind phenomenon' that struck at around 10am

Picture shows strong winds in Albufeira as Storm Claudia swept through the Portuguese coast

Portugal's president, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, offered his 'solidarity with the family of the victim who died as a result of Storm Claudia's passage this morning in Albufeira'.

Emergency services confirmed that 28 people were hurt across two affected sites in Albufeira.

That includes six young children, from just two months old to seven, all of whom sustained minor injuries, as well as 23 adults aged between 24 and 70, according to Portugal's National Medical Emergency Institute.

Portugal's national weather agency, IPMA, said specialists are now examining conditions in the Algarve to determine whether a tornado formed as Storm Claudia swept through the region.

Early radar readings, it noted, point to a 'very high' likelihood that a tornado did touch down.

The agency stressed that forecasting such phenomena remains challenging, with limited ability to pinpoint when or where they may develop.

According to IPMA, the worst of the storm moved through the area between 11am and 3pm, bringing destructive winds and heavy rain.

Elsewhere in the south, the districts of Faro, Setubal and Beja remain under an orange alert for persistent, potentially intense rainfall and thunderstorms, the IPMA said on its website.

Albufeira mayor, Rui Cristina, expressed his condolences to the family of those who died in the extreme winds.

The damage at a campsite in Albufeira, Portugal, following violent winds from Storm Claudia

An aerial view over Albufeira shows the extent of the damage caused to the camping site

A British woman was killed after Storm Claudia ripped through the Portuguese campsite

Officials confirmed the victim was caught up in the violent winds that tore through the site this morning

Portugal's national weather agency, IPMA, said specialists are now examining conditions in the Algarve to determine whether a tornado formed as Storm Claudia swept through the region

Waves break along the coast of Lisbon as the ocean is agitated by wind and waves at during Storm Claudia

According to IPMA, the worst of the storm moved through the area between 11am and 3pm, bringing destructive winds and heavy rain

Mr Cristina said: 'Since the first hour, I've been following on the ground the situation caused by the wind phenomenon that hit our municipality.

'I've been to the most affected places today, including the campground, where the scenery is truly heartbreaking.

'There is a record of several injured and one fatal victim, aged 85 of British nationality. On behalf of myself and the Municipality, I express my deepest condolences to the family and friends.

'We are working with all municipal means and civil protection entities to support victims and restore conditions of safety and normality as quickly as possible.'

Storm Claudia has also been causing havoc in Britain as emergency crews in Monmouth in Wales grapple with 'severe and widespread' flooding that has left parts of the town unreachable.

A major incident was declared overnight after rising waters cut off several neighbourhoods, prompting urgent evacuations and a series of water rescues.

Police, paramedics, Mountain Rescue teams and the Coastguard spent the night conducting welfare checks and helping residents escape homes surrounded by fast-moving floodwater.

Aerial footage of Monmouthshire, South Wales shows the devastation following Storm Claudia

MONMOUTH: Locals being helped by the rescue teams during the floods

MANCHESTER: A tree from the ground of Milton St John's School has collapsed on a terraced house

From Monmouth, the disruption ripples out across the UK, where the storm's impact continues to be felt.

More than 90 flood warnings remain in force nationwide as authorities warn that saturated ground and swollen rivers pose ongoing dangers.

Although the yellow rain warning covering central and northern England, the South West and Wales expired at 6am, conditions have shown little sign of easing.

In the early hours, Natural Resources Wales issued four severe flood warnings, cautioning that there is a 'significant risk to life and significant disruption to the community is expected' as the relentless rainfall continues to push river levels higher.

With emergency services stretched from the Welsh border to parts of England, officials say the aftermath of Storm Claudia is likely to remain hazardous throughout the day, with communities along vulnerable waterways urged to remain alert.
Marjorie Taylor Greene said she has been hit with a number of death threats in the last 24 hours, which she claimed Donald Trump helped fuel.

Tensions reached a boiling point between the two on Friday night, with the president 'withdrawing' his support of his longtime ally.

After a public back and forth on their respective social media pages, Greene said on Saturday that she was being swamped with death threats.

In a post to her X, the Georgia Representative said that private security firms were reaching out to her with warnings for her own safety.

She added: 'A hot bed of threats against me are being fueled and egged on by the most powerful man in the world. The man I supported and helped get elected.

'Aggressive rhetoric attacking me has historically led to death threats and multiple convictions of men who were radicalized by the same type rhetoric being directed at me right now.

'This time by the President of the United States. As a woman I take threats from men seriously.

'I now have a small understanding of the fear and pressure the women, who are victims of Jeffrey Epstein and his cabal, must feel.'

Greene said that private security firms were reaching out to her with warnings for her own safety

Tensions reached a boiling point between the two on Friday night, with the president 'withdrawing' his support of his longtime ally

Greene added that Trump's 'aggression' against her was fueling 'the venomous nature of his radical internet trolls,' claiming that many of them are actually paid.

She continued: 'The Political Industrial Complex and the toxic violent nature of American politics must end.

'Our country is worth saving and it can only be done if we pull together and save ourselves.

In another post to her social media prior to claiming she was receiving death threats, Greene said Trump was directly attacking her because of the Epstein files.

An image alongside the post showed she had taken no money from the pro-Israel lobbying group AIPAC, hinting at her unwillingness to do so factored into his attack.

Trump had campaigned on a promise to release all of the files relating to Epstein, something which Greene has continued to champion.

The House is planning to hold a vote on Tuesday to release the files relating to Epstein, something which Trump is repeatedly trying to kill.

The petition to force a vote on the files reached 218 signatures this week after the House returned to Washington after the 43-day government shutdown.

Trump has repeatedly stated the effort is a 'Democrat hoax' in an effort to distance himself from the sordid affair.

Trump speaks to members of press aboard Air Force One on November 14, 2025 while in flight from Washington, DC to West Palm Beach International Airport

In posts on Saturday after the public spat, Greene said she had received death threats due to Trump and that he was attacking her over the release of the Epstein files

That's despite a reported history of socializing in orbits close to Epstein, who, like Trump, split time between Florida and New York.

Trump branded Greene with two of his trademark insulting nicknames on Saturday also, as their conflict deepened.

He posted on Truth Social shortly after Greene shared a measured statement of her own, following their online screaming match Friday.

In it, he branded the Georgia Representative as 'Marjorie Taylor Brown' adding: 'Green grass turns Brown when it begins to ROT!'.

In a follow up post, he also labelled her 'Marjorie Traitor Greene', after saying she 'betrayed the entire Republican Party when she turned Left.'

Greene and Trump traded social media barbs on Friday, with Greene sharing screenshots of texts she sent to Trump about the Epstein files.

Trump kickstarted the spat - including an admission that he advised her not to run for Senate in 2026 - on Truth Social earlier that evening.

Epstein and Donald Trump are seen here posing together at the Mar-a-Lago estate on February 22, 1997

She advised him to 'lean in' to former President Bill Clinton's connections to the pedophile, Trump ordered an investigation into Clinton on Friday.

In a second screenshot, Greene responded to a text from 'NH' that appeared to be fuming about her Trump criticisms, stating: 'THE JEFFREY EPSTEIN HOAX.'

Greene replied: 'In every single interview I have done I have defended President Trump.

'I've said over and over the women say he did nothing wrong and their attorney says he's the only one who helped.

'And the Democrats had 4 years to release the files but did nothing', NH is an apparent reference to the president's assistant Natalie Harp.

Greene adds: 'Stop ignoring the women. Many of them literally voted for President Trump and say so publicly. Them being raped as teenagers is not a hoax.'

The Daily Mail has contacted Greene's office for further comment.
Donald Trump has pardoned a man involved in the January 6 Capitol riot for a second time after he was convicted of gun charges.

Dan Wilson was given the full and unconditional pardon by the president on Friday, according to Politico, with the new pardon relating to a firearms case in which he pleaded guilty to two felony offenses.

The president had previously pardoned Wilson, a militia member, earlier this year for his role in the storming of the Capitol but he remained in prison for his gun crimes.

In June 2022, law enforcement raided his Kentucky home and seized six unauthorized guns from the address.

Wilson, who identified himself as a member of the Oath Keepers and Gray Ghost Partisan Rangers militia, also pleaded guilty for his part in events of January 6.

His lawyers said in a statement to the outlet: 'Dan Wilson is a good man. After more than 7 months of unjustified imprisonment, he is relieved to be home with his loved ones.

'This act of mercy not only restores his freedom but also shines a light on the overreach that has divided this nation.'

US District Judge Dabney Friedrich sentenced Wilson to five years behind bars last August relating to the charges.

Wilson, seen here in a gasmask as he entered the Capitol, was pardoned again by the president on Friday

Trump pardoned Wilson before for his role in events on January 6 at the Capitol

The Trump administration argued in February that Trump's January 6 pardon did not cover his firearms conviction.

Weeks after that, the Justice Department u-turned and said that the pardon should apply to his gun crimes, adding that the weapons involved were found during an FBI search relating to the events of January 6.

Friedrich rejected the change in stance, adding that the shift stretched bounds of the original pardon.

An appeals court sided with her also, saying Wilson should remain in prison while he worked on his own appeal.

A White House official told the Daily Mail that the discovery of 'unauthorized firearms' would not have happened without the January 6 investigation probing Wilson.

They said: 'While being investigated for conduct related to January 6  which President Trump issued a larger pardon for in January  investigators discovered that Mr Wilson may have owned unauthorized firearms.

'Because the search of Mr Wilsons home was due to the events of January 6, President Trump is pardoning Mr Wilson for the firearm issues.'

According to court documents, in the build up to the riot he had joined a Telegram channel called 'Coalition of the Unknown' alongside others.

Wilson said he was a member of the Oath Keepers and Gray Ghost Partisan Rangers militia

Prosecutors said he described how he would wear bullet proof armor under his clothes and initially said he would even carry a gun while storming the Capitol.

The day before the riot he decided it was no necessary for him to carry a gun with him.

Arriving at the Capitol, he made his way to the Upper West Terrace and shouted 'f*** the police', according to the filings.

He then entered the Rotunda wearing a gas mask shortly after. He was originally arrested in May 2023, a year after the raid on his home.
YouTuber Jack Doherty was arrested in Miami after he was found with illegal drugs.

Doherty, 22, was detained around 9am on Saturday after being found in possession of a controlled substance, marijuana, and resisting an officer without violence to his person, according to records viewed by the Daily Mail.

The controlled substance he had on him was amphetamine, which is an ADHD medication. He was also found with less than 20mg of weed. Recreational marijuana is illegal in Florida.

He was booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center in Miami on a $3,500 bond, which he has not posted.

It is unclear what led up to his arrest, but he was livestreaming on the platform Parti last night and posted footage of himself on a yacht.

The YouTuber gained traction in 2017 for his prank and stunt videos.

The Daily Mail has reached out to the Miami Police Department and Doherty's management for comment.

Jack Doherty, 22, was arrested in Miami on Saturday. He was caught with amphetamine, which is an ADHD medication, and marijuana on him

His bond has been set at $3,500 and he has not posted it. Pictured in October 2024 after he crashed his McClaren

In 2024, Doherty hit headlines after crashing a $300,000 McLaren, leaving his friend covered in blood in a horrific incident which went viral.

He was live-streaming on Kick and could be seen driving with one hand and glancing down at his phone as he drove at high speed in torrential rain before he lost control of the supercar.

The custom wrapped McLaren 570S skidded across the wet highway in Miami before careering into the metal roadside barrier, ripping off the bonnet and destroying the entire front half of the car.

Doherty escaped unscathed but his friend Michael David, who was sitting in the passenger seat, could be seen with blood streaming down his face and had to be taken to hospital.

But not before Doherty handed him the camera and said: 'Michael, here. Film on that phone too.'

Doherty has since been banned from streaming platform Kick for violating safety guidelines.

He also received backlash last year for allegedly antagonizing people for the sake of engaging content before running to hide behind his security guards to prevent the people he was provoking from touching him.

In some videos, he could be seen squaring up to strangers and having his security guard step in as soon as the person looked as if they were going to retaliate.

In 2024, Doherty hit headlines after crashing a $300,000 McLaren. He was live-streaming at the time

His friend was covered in blood after the crash

He stood behind a security guard, who was much larger than him, and mocked the person by making comments such as: "What are you gonna do?"'

Doherty and his bodyguard, Kane Kongg, were later served legal papers and were being sued by a man who claimed he was punched by Kongg - whose legal name is Justin Goslee.

Daily Mail reached out to Doherty for comment.
Five people have been arrested over a banner hung from Westminster Bridge in support of the banned group Palestine Action.

The individuals, aged between fifty and seventy-five, were arrested on the bridge on suspicion of encouraging support for a proscribed organisation contrary to Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

Palestine Action was banned as a terror organisation in July after the group claimed responsibility for an action in which two Voyager planes were damaged at RAF Brize Norton the previous month.

The banner reads: 'We support the hunger strikers. We support Palestine Action'.

Earlier this month, Prisoners for Palestine said an undisclosed number of inmates will begin an open-ended hunger strike in protest at being held in prison while awaiting trial.

The group are calling for the prisoner's immediate bail, lifting the ban on Palestine Action and an end to censorship of their communications.

The prisoners were not named but they are among the Filton 24 accused of aggravated burglary, criminal damage and violent disorder during action at Elbit Systems last year, and the so-called Brize Norton Five.

The first six of the Filton 24 are set to begin their trial on Monday after over a year held in remand, while the five on remand in relation to incident at RAF Brize Norton aren't due to stand trial until January 2027.

The individuals, aged between fifty and seventy-five, were arrested on the bridge on suspicion of encouraging support for a proscribed organisation contrary to Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000

The five people were arrested on Westminster Bridge and remain in police custody while enquiries continue

Palestine Action was banned as a terror organisation in July after the group claimed responsibility for an action in which two Voyager planes were damaged at RAF Brize Norton the previous month

A spokesperson from Prisoners for Palestine said: 'Todays banner drop echoes the sentiment of people across this country, who are disgusted by the proscription of Palestine Action and the ongoing imprisonment of protestors who oppose genocide.

'There are six prisoners for Palestine who are engaging in an open ended hunger strike, left with no other option but to use their bodies as a tool to resist injustice.

'Each of the prisoners face up to two years on remand without trial, far exceeding the six month pre-trial custody time limit.

'Theyve also faced harsher treatment due to the weaponising of counter-terrorism powers against them.

'Now, theyve entered their 14th day of hunger strike and people across the country are mobilising in support of them.'

A Met spokesperson said: 'Officers have arrested five people following an incident on Westminster Bridge on Saturday, November 15.

'The individuals, aged between fifty and seventy-five, were arrested on suspicion of encouraging support for a proscribed organisation, contrary to Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

'They remain in police custody while enquiries continue.'

It comes as pro-Gaza supporters are set the launch a week of mass action across the UK.

Defend Our Juries announced dozens of actions in November in protest against Labours ban on Palestine Action.

The Lift The Ban campaign is set to run from November 18th to 29th, with the group describing it as the 'most widespread mass civil disobedience across the UK in modern British history'.

People stage a protest to demand the British government to lift its ban on Palestine Action in Trafalgar Square on on October 4, 2025

People take part in a demonstration organised by GM Friends of Palestine at Manchester Cathedral on October 4, 2025

The group say that more than 2000 people have been arrested for holding signs as part of the Lift The Ban campaign.

Leigh Evans, who took part in the Global Flotilla and who will be taking action in Cardiff said: 'Protest and direct action are prerequisites for democracy in the face of fascism.

'Direct action is the only thing that has ever been proved to work against oppression and apartheid.'

Elle Miller, from Glasgow, who will be taking part in actions both Edinburgh and London, said: 'Without protest, slavery would still be legal, women couldnt vote, and same-sex marriage would still be illegal.

'We know protest works precisely because successive governments are trying to criminalise it.

'If sitting peacefully with a cardboard sign makes me a terrorist, then I hope my great-grandchildren will be as proud of me as relatives of the suffragettes are today.

Oliver Baines OBE, who will be among those holding signs in Truro, said: 'Our argument was never with the police but with the UK Government, with its shameful attack on our civil liberties, and with its appalling record of complicity in the ongoing genocide in Gaza and the West Bank.

'Equating solidarity with Palestine and opposition to genocide with being a terrorist is a gross insult to all peace-loving people.'

A statement from Defend Our Juries said: 'It is vital that our campaign succeeds  not just for Palestine Action but for democracy.

'Once the meaning of terrorism is separated from campaigns of violence against a civilian population, and extended to include those causing economic damage or embarrassment to the rich, the powerful and the criminal, then the right to freedom of expression has no meaning and democracy is dead.

'If we let this go, the unions, and climate and racial justice movements will be next.

'But the Government has overreached itself.

'Our groups and movements are coming together like never before, finding unity under repression.

'By refusing to give into fear and by standing together, we will face down this assault on us all.'

The Dailly Mail has approached the Home Office for comment.
A 48-year-old LNER rail staff member credited with 'acting as a shield' to save 'multiple lives' has been discharged from hospital following a mass stabbing on a train earlier this month.

Samir Zitouni, known as Sam, had been in a critical condition since November 1, having suffered multiple injuries during the attack, which took place close to Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire.

He had been working onboard the London North Eastern Railway (LNER) 6.25pm train from Doncaster to London King's Cross when a crazed knifeman launched a terrifying rampage.

Mr Zitouni is said to have used a frying pan from the buffet carriage kitchen to stop the attacker from reaching other passengers while armed police and medics were deployed to Huntingdon station, where the train made an unscheduled stop.

He was repeatedly stabbed and rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries, but is now well enough to have been discharged from hospital and continue his recovery at home.

Mr Zitouni's family said tonight: 'We are so grateful for the outpouring of support from the public, and very touched by all the kind words about Sam's brave actions on the night of the attack.

'While we are really happy to have him home, he still has a significant recovery ahead and we would now like to be left in privacy to care for him as a family.'

Anthony Williams, 32, of Peterborough, appeared at Peterborough magistrates' court charged with 11 counts of attempted murder in connection with a knife attack on board the LNER train and another in east London on November 1.

LNER staff member Samir Zitouni had been in a critical condition since November 1, having suffered multiple injuries after he 'acted as a shield' to save passengers

A forensic officer inspects the London North Eastern Railway (LNER) train after the incident

He also faces charges of possessing a bladed article and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Police confirmed that the attack has been linked to four other knife incidents, including threats made to staff by a knifeman at Ritzy Barbers in Huntingdon on October 31, and again on the morning of November 1.

The man is said to have arrived at the shop just moments after a 14-year-old boy was stabbed in Peterborough city centre at 7.10pm.

And a fourth incident that has now been linked is the stabbing of a 17-year-old person on a DLR train at Pontoon Dock in the early hours of Saturday. The victim is said to have suffered facial injuries.

Williams has been remanded in custody until a hearing at Cambridge Crown Court on December 1.

A GoFundMe page to support Mr Zitouni and his family was set up just hours after the stabbing incident, where his wife Eleni revealed that he had 'acted as a shield to protect the lives of others'.

She said: 'Sam is a kind and courageous person who believes deeply in humanity.

'On November 1, Sam acted as a shield to protect the lives of others, risking not being able to return home to his beloved son.

Anthony Williams, 32, from Peterborough, has been charged with 11 counts of attempted murder, possessing a bladed article and assault occasioning actual bodily harm

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'This is who Sam is  he would do the same for anyone, regardless of colour, age, gender, religion or origin, even for those he does not know. Sam is our hero.'

David Horne, managing director at LNER, previously hailed Mr Zitouni's bravery, saying: 'In a moment of crisis, Sam did not hesitate as he stepped forward to protect those around him.

'His actions were incredibly brave, and we are so proud of him, and of all our colleagues who acted with such courage that evening.

'Our thoughts and prayers remain with Sam and his family. We will continue to support them and wish him a full and speedy recovery.'

During the incident on November 1, the suspect is understood to have boarded the 6.25 LNER service from Doncaster to London King's Cross at Peterborough before allegedly rampaging through the moving carriages.

Passengers ran through the vehicle, barricading themselves in toilets and behind the shutters of the onboard shop in the buffet car in a bid to protect themselves.

As the train pulled into Huntingdon, cool-headed railway staff ushered passengers hurriedly down the platform as the suspect followed closely behind.

The alleged attacker, still brandishing a knife, crossed the railway tracks and leapt over a fence before being subdued by police.

A petition has been set up calling for Huntingdon stabbing victim Stephen Crean to be honoured after he stepped in and took on the attacker with his bare hands

Sir Keir Starmer thanked the 'heroic actions' of train staff, including Mr Zitouni, who put themselves in harm's way to save 'countless lives'.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said Mr Zitouni 'went to work on Saturday morning and left a hero'.

'I know the British Transport Police have reviewed CCTV footage from what happened and he literally put himself in harm's way. There will be people who are alive today because of his actions.'

She added: 'He went to work on Saturday morning to do his job and he left work a hero.'

His heroic actions were commended last night in the House of Lords by Lord Hanson of Flint, who called for his 'tremendous bravery' to be recognised.

Home Office minister Lord Hanson said Mr Zitouni was 'the sort of person who would normally be serving tea or refreshments'.

But he has stepped up to the plate and put his own life at risk in taking really strong steps here,' he told the House of Lords. 'I think we should recognise that point that this is an act of tremendous bravery, and I wish him well.'

Meanwhile, a petition has been set up calling for Nottingham Forest fan and train passenger Stephen Crean to be honoured after he rushed to take on the alleged attacker with his bare hands.

Mr Crean, who was returning from watching Nottingham Forest draw 2-2 with Manchester United, said he heard the screams of injured passengers and walked through the buffet car to a carriage where he came face to face with the attacker.

Mr Crean recalled: 'He had a great big oversized kitchen knife  it was as if it was a Japanese sword or something. He came towards me and said to me, 'Do you want to die?''

He said he confronted the attacker to give another passenger time to close the buffet door behind him - allowing others to hide and potentially preventing dozens of injuries.

Mr Crean, who was subsequently locked in with the knifeman, was stabbed in his left hand, three times in his back, once on his bottom and twice in his head before he managed to find an empty toilet to hide in.
Taxpayers paid out a record 14million last year to fund legal aid for asylum seekers fighting to remain in Scotland.

With the UK facing an unprecedented influx of migrants - including thousands crossing the English Channel on small boats - a growing number are sent to Scotland to be temporarily housed while their asylum applications are processed.

Figures obtained by the Scottish Mail on Sunday reveal the knock-on effect for the countrys legal aid bill - which is the fund of public money for people involved in cases in the criminal and civil courts.

In the year 2024/25, a total of 14.4m was spent on civil legal aid for immigration and asylum cases, which is a 20 per cent increase from the previous year - and almost three times higher than a decade ago.

The Labour governments failure to control levels of migration has sparked growing disquiet - including angry protests around Scotland about the use of hotels to accommodate asylum seekers and recent plans to house hundreds more in a former barracks in Inverness.

Earlier this year immigration was ranked, for the first time, as one the top five concerns of people living in Scotland.

Meanwhile, Glasgow City Council - which houses around half of the asylum seekers in Scotland - has warned that it is facing extreme financial pressure because of rising numbers and a lack of UK government support.

The Tories said the growing cost of legal aid for asylum cases was unsustainable.

Migrants crossing the Channel on inflatable boats

Scottish Conservative community safety spokeswoman Sharon Dowey MSP said: The ever-increasing cost of legal aid for immigration cases is unsustainable going forward.

Hard-pressed Scots who are being hit with rising bills and seeing our public services at breaking point will question why their money is being spent in this way.

Everyone is entitled to legal aid, but with the system in crisis under the SNP, ministers must ensure that costs are fair to the taxpayer at all times.

With record numbers of migrants arriving in the UK to claim asylum - primarily in the south-east of England - the Home Office operates a dispersal system, which sees arrivals sent to be housed in different parts of the country.

In June this year, the number living in Scotland was 6,107, double the number a decade ago, including 1,573 who were living in taxpayer-funded hotels.

While councils provide access to housing and services, the publicly-funded Scottish Legal Aid Board provides assistance to pay for asylum applications and appeals.

Costs have soared year on year, from just 855,000 2001/02 to 5.3 million in 2014/15 - before almost trebling over the past decade to a new high in 2024/25 of 14,380,000.

In May, the Diffley Partnership and the David Hume Institutes Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker said immigration had entered the top five list of Scots leading concerns for the first time.

In the year ending June 2025, around half (48 per cent) of the migrants who lodged an initial asylum application in the UK were granted refugee protection - around 52,000 people.

And although dismissal of an asylum case can lead to deportation, the system also permits various avenues of appeal, which mean cases can drag on for many years - adding to the legal aid bill.

As well as many legitimate and horrifying cases of torture and persecution, the tribunal offices in Edinburgh and Glasgow which hear asylum cases have also been presented with a number of outrageous or bizarre appeals against deportation.

In one shocking case, a foreign paedophile who had been jailed for abusing his step-daughter and two of her cousins used public cash to successfully argue he should be allowed to remain in Scotland - because deporting him would breach his right to a family life.

Scottish Conservative community safety spokeswoman Sharon Dowey MSP

The man in his 50s, originally from central Africa, was found guilty of sex attacks on the three young girls and ordered to be deported.

But after an appeal, an immigration judge, despite acknowledging the sex offender continued to pose a risk, ruled at the end of last year that sending him back to Africa would breach his rights to a family life - enshrined under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights - and negatively impact the well-being of his children.

The Scottish Legal Aid Board said the bill was directly influenced by government policy.

A spokesperson said: Legal aid expenditure for immigration and asylum is an area prone to fluctuation, largely due to UK government policy and world events.

We keep the provision of legal assistance under review and focus on achieving best value for the public funds available to those eligible.

Our guidance is clear about the practice and approach solicitors must follow when carrying out different types of immigration and asylum work.

A Home Office spokesman said: In this governments first year in office, we facilitated the return of more than 35,000 individuals with no legal right to remain in the UK.

We are speeding up decision making to help move asylum seekers through our system more quickly, reforming the appeals system, and returning those with no right to be in the UK.
Police Scotland is set to spend almost a million pounds hiring a human rights adviser  sparking accusations that the under-fire force values virtue-signalling ahead of fighting crime.

In a move criticised as meddling, the role will offer operational human rights advice to senior officers during the planning and execution of active policing.

The appointee will also review every aspect of the forces training, guidance and operating procedures to ensure that no unconscious bias and discrimination exist within the organisation.

However, Police Scotland already employs an assistant chief constable for Policing Together  on a salary of more than 150,000 a year  who is specifically responsible for equality, diversity, inclusion and human rights.

Critics say the appointment is utterly wasteful and absurd and that it will reduce available cash to tackle crime.

The uproar follows The Scottish Mail on Sundays revelation that Chief Constable Jo Farrell landed taxpayers with a 134,000 bill while buying a second home.

The 270,000-a-year officer, recruited in 2023, bought a 595,000 flat in Edinburgh while keeping on her 1 million family home in Northumberland. She was also handed relocation expenses of 69,901 and tax costs of 64,525.

John OConnell, chief executive of the TaxPayers Alliance, said: Its absurd that Police Scotland is spending nearly 1 million on a so-called human rights adviser to meddle in frontline policing while also pleading poverty.

Chief Constable Jo Farrell bagged bumper relocation deal

This shows just how skewed priorities have become, moving away from frontline policing to bureaucratic box-ticking. This money should be put towards keeping Scotlands streets safe.

And Scottish Conservative justice spokesman Liam Kerr said: When the Chief Constable is issuing apocalyptic warnings over the impact of SNP budget cuts, this looks utterly wasteful.

When police numbers have fallen to woefully low levels and the force is unable to investigate every crime, officers and law-abiding Scots alike expect scarce resources to be directed towards frontline policing. 

'Ministers should ensure resources are used to keep communities safe and get more police on the street, rather than on posts which many will suspect place virtue-signalling above tackling crime.

Recruitment documents reveal Police Scotland is seeking a suitably qualified and experienced human rights adviser.

A three-year contract, due to start in January, will cost 725,000 plus VAT  although the force notes that up to 999,000 will be available if costs increase.

It follows a baseline assessment of the current human rights landscape within Police Scotland which produced recommendations to further embed human rights across the organisation.

These require that we prioritise and resource this work to make improvements. Specialist advice and guidance is needed. The adviser will even be expected to help direct policing operations.

Adviser will have input into frontline policing operations

The documents state: Police Scotland should ensure its Executive Team have access to operational human rights advice during the planning and execution of complex or sensitive policing operations.

'The Human Rights Adviser will support in this capability.

Police Scotland is also recruiting three extra staff to support the practical implantation and embedding of Human Rights and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion within Police Scotland.

Over the past two years, the force has controversially introduced a proportionate approach to crime, in which officers are ordered not to launch full inquiries into offences deemed to be minor where there is no lead, such as CCTV footage.

Between August 2023 and February this year more than 12,000 crimes reported by the public were directly filed  meaning they were not taken forward for full investigation.

Ms Farrell recently told MSPs the force was at a crossroads and would have to slash officer numbers without a minimum funding boost of 105 million.

Last night Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton said: The figure stated is the maximum contract value and not a commitment to spend that full amount, which is standard practice for procuring services.

Police Scotland will only pay for services when required during the term of the contract up to that maximum value.

Expert advice on human rights is vital to driving our commitment to being an anti-racist, anti-discrimatory organisation and improving the service we provide to our communities.
To the staff at the rubber factory in Dumfries, he was a friendly and efficient foreman; to his fellow anglers on the banks of the River Nith, he was a keen sportsman, never happier than when landing a good-sized trout.

Unbeknown to them all, however, the unassuming middle-aged man they knew as Lucien had, just a few years earlier, played a vital role in the Second World Wars most audacious  and secretive  raid.

As part of an elite band of SAS warriors, he had helped to pull off a rescue mission that, even 80 years later, still sounds almost too far-fetched to be true.

In the Allies first ever encounter with a concentration camp, the group heard reports of hundreds of civilian inmates locked up in appalling conditions by the Fascists in southern Italy.

Realising that even if they stormed the camp it would be nigh-on impossible to transport so many liberated prisoners to safety, they hatched a plan of breathtaking boldness: to hijack an entire train.

In plain sight, Lucien and his comrades drove the stolen train through 75 miles of enemy territory, before attacking the heavily fortified camp in the dead of night.

After subduing the guards, they freed scores of badly injured and malnourished prisoners and loaded them onto the waiting train before speeding back along the tracks to the safety of Allied-held territory.

The astonishing wartime escapade  and the vital role played by the modest hero who later married a Scots woman and made his home in Dumfries  is revealed in a new book by the historian and filmmaker Damien Lewis.

The Tremoli train was commandeered by SAS officers

Wladislas Cieslak's endeavours are the subject of a new book by author Damien Lewis

Former SAS soldier Wladislas 'Lucien' Cieslak in the 1990s

The bestselling author said: There was no other mission like it. It was absolutely unprecedented.

The idea you could hijack a train and steam it through enemy lines to liberate a concentration camp, if you wrote it as the outline of a Hollywood movie, people would scoff and say it could never happen. But it did.

And although the people who knew him when he settled in Scotland after the war may not have known it, Lucien played a crucial role.

Born in Poland, Wladislas Cieslak ran away from home aged 18 to join the French Foreign Legion.

Five foot seven inches tall but broad and strong, he adopted the French name of Lucien, which he used for the rest of his life. Early in the war, he earned the Croix de Guerre medal for destroying German tanks advancing towards a French village.

Despite being captured and held in appalling conditions at a POW camp in Dusseldorf, the young soldier escaped, then embarked on an epic journey across Nazi Germany which involved hiding in graveyards, swimming across the River Rhine in winter and clinging to the underside of a train.

Evading capture, he finally crossed to North Africa to rejoin the Legion.

Dismayed by the lack of action  he later described it as playing at soldiers... a waste of time  he volunteered for the SAS, the legendary British special forces unit which had been set up in 1941 to operate behind enemy lines.

Italian concentration camp Pisticci

Training, he recalled, involved being thrown off moving lorries like a sack of potatoes, pitched from cliffs into sandpits and dropped from balloons.

By autumn 1943, the Allied leaders  Prime Minister Winston Churchill and US President Franklin D Roosevelt  had decided to target Italy as a first step towards liberating Europe.

Allied forces, including the SAS, landed at Taranto, a coastal city on the heel of Italy.

Soon afterwards, a Yugoslavian soldier arrived, reporting that hed escaped from a brutal internment camp in Pisticci, 75 miles to the west.

Established in 1939 by Italys leader Benito Mussolini, the camp  with its rows of huts, watchtowers and barbed wire  was used to imprison Jews, partisans, resistance fighters from Yugoslavia, Poland, France and elsewhere, plus artists, writers or priests who dared to defy Fascism.

It was the first time the Allies had come across a concentration camp, where civilians were held without any respect for decency or rights.

Worryingly, the escapee reported, the inmates were soon to be transferred north to Nazi Germany  effectively condemning them to death. In a matter of days, Operation Loco was born. On September 14, Lucien and his comrades seized Chiatona railway station, west of Taranto, then stole what they nicknamed their Pirate Train.

A breakaway unit was charged with seizing control of a key junction along the route to ensure the points were switched and the train could carry on in the right direction. Under cover of darkness, the SAS arrived at their destination, a deserted railway station seven miles from Pisticci.

Damien Lewis's new book details the exciting mission

After marching to the camp, Lucien and the others launched a surprise attack, and after a ferocious firefight, despite being heavily outnumbered, forced the surrender of 200 guards.

Around 180 of the weakest and most badly injured internees were crammed onto whatever trucks, vans, cars, motorbikes and bicycles could be found at the camp and ferried back to the waiting train.

In an act of flamboyant defiance, the SAS also liberated 100,000 lira from the camp  the guards pay  plus more than 200 bottles of brandy and liqueur.

The remainder of the inmates were handed weapons seized from the guards and told to head into the mountains to await the arrival of Allied troops.

Meanwhile, with its carriages packed, the stolen train raced back through hostile territory, until, just before dawn on September 15, it arrived back at Chiatona station, crashing into the buffers.

Mr Lewis said: Lucien played a key role, disarming the guards and handing over the weaponry to the liberated prisoners.

He helped ferry the sick and lame back to the train and then stood guard as the train powered back to safety.

After Operation Loco, Lucien continued his service with the SAS. During further training in Scotland, he fell for a local woman called Agnes, whom he married in 1946, settling in Dumfries, where he worked as foreman at the Dunlop rubber factory.

In 1966, he became a naturalised British citizen, before eventually dying of a heart attack in 1999 aged 81. Last night, Luciens adoptive grandson, Colin Barr, 60, from Moffat, Dumfriesshire, recalled him as an amazing character.

He said: He never spoke much about his wartime service and never mentioned Operation Loco at all.

When we asked, he just said hed done what needed to be done. When we were kids, he did say that if we ever became soldiers, there were two golden rules: never volunteer for anything  which is ironic given that hed volunteered for the SAS  and always shoot first.

Mr Barr added: In the 1970s my brother and I had air rifles. Lucien would stand a 50p on a fence and tell us we could have it if we could shoot it.

We never could of course  but he would hit it every time.

Mr Lewis said: Its important to tell these stories because we are living in an extremely dangerous world.

We need to remind ourselves that freedom has to be fought for.

 SAS The Great Train Raid by Damien Lewis is published by Quercus at 25 and available to buy online and in all good bookshops.
The grandmother of missing girl, Melodee Buzzard, claimed the child's mentally ill mother wanted to 'cut' her off from the 'entire world.'

Lilly Denes, Buzzard's grandmother, was in the process of adopting the nine-year-old girl when when Ashlee Buzzard 'took her away from us' after being released from the mental hospital in 2021, she told Fox News Digital.

'That lady is mentally ill bad,' she told the outlet.

Denes said she had been 'so happy' when social services had called her to take in Melodee as she had gotten a weird feeling about Ashlee from the first time they met.

'When I met her, my son brought her to the house. She looked so quiet and she was following me with her eyes back and forth,' she told the outlet.

'I told my son: "Son, is this girl okay? She doesn't look like she's normal. Something's wrong with this lady."'

Since Ashlee took her daughter back, Denes said she had not seen the girl and that she believed it was a deliberate move by Ashlee as she wanted to 'cut off' the girl 'from the entire world.'

'I know that maybe somebody out there in the world knows where my baby is. Somebody has to know,' Denes begged.

Melodee Buzzard's grandmother Lilly Denes was in the process of adopting her when her mom came and took her back in 2021. Denes hasn't seen her since

Since Ashlee (pictured) took her daughter back, Denes said the isolation was a deliberate move by her as she wanted to 'cut off' the girl 'from the entire world'

Ashlee was taken into custody on November 7 outside her residence in Lompoc, roughly 50 miles away from Santa Barbara.

The 40-year-old lived at the home with Melodee, who was first reported missing on October 14 by school officials after repeated absences.

She was arrested on the felony charge of false imprisonment and booked at the Northern Branch Jail on a $100,000 bond on November 7, Santa Barbara County Sheriff's deputies confirmed. The charge is not related to Melodee's disappearance.

The mother has refused to cooperate with their investigation and has offered no explanation for her daughter's whereabouts. The FBI confirmed Friday it is still searching for the child.

Lizabeth Meza, Melodee's aunt, told the Daily Mail she has mixed emotions about Ashlee's arrest.

'I don't understand exactly why they arrested her for false imprisonment and since the FBI took over the case, the detectives are keeping information close to them,' Meza told the Daily Mail earlier this month.

'Ashlee could be the only one who knows and she is the missing piece to this puzzle. Will she actually talk now? We hope she will so she can tell them where Melodee is.

'I want her to know if someone is hurting her or Melodee, that she is not alone in this. We want to get them help, both her and Melodee. We just want her back.'

Sheriff's investigators said the mother and daughter traveled more than 1,500 miles away to Nebraska on October 7

Private investigator Bill Garcia, who was hired by Melodee's family, told the Daily Mail that officers recently seized several potential pieces of evidence from the home.

Sheriff's investigators said the mother and daughter took off from their Lompoc home and traveled more than 1,500 miles away to Nebraska in a rented white Chevy Malibu on October 7.

Detectives believe the pair then started their trip back the next day, but the Malibu was spotted with a New York license plate, which authorities said did not belong to the rental or to Ashlee.

Investigators now believe the Malibu traveled through various small towns on October 9, including Green River, Utah; Panguitch, Utah; northwest Arizona; Primm, Nevada and Rancho Cucamonga, California.

Garcia also said Buzzard was spotted at a gas station in Santa Paula, California, but without her daughter.

The Daily Mail exclusively revealed that the roots of the family schism go back to Ashlee's teens when she filed a petition to emancipate herself from her mother.

According to the filing, Ashlee was living with her mother and her then-boyfriend when she tried to make the break and was working a job at Pizza Hut.

Ashlee was arrested on November 7 on an unrelated felony charge. Ashlee has not cooperated with police about the disappearance of her daughter

The petition was eventually turned down due to Ashlee's failure to fill the form in properly.

On Thursday, Ashlee appeared in court in Santa Maria, California  the same court that was the scene of Michael Jackson's 2005 child molestation trial  to be arraigned on a single count of false imprisonment.

The Daily Mail has reached out to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office and Ashlee for comment.
There was a time, not so long ago, when Cumbernauld was written off as the dreariest place in Scotland.

Much maligned, it twice won the Plook on the Plinth award  in 2001 and 2005  for being seen as the countrys most dismal town.

Famed for providing the concreted backdrop for the hit 1981 movie Gregorys Girl, some of the buildings and streetscapes featured were later slated for their cold, brutalist design.

However, it seems the town has recently undergone a radical change in fortune, having emerged as the fastest place in Britain to sell a house.

According to new data from estate agents Rightmove, it takes 64 days on average  just over two months  to sell a house in the UK.

But in Cumbernauld, which was designated as a New Town in the 1950s, homes are now selling in a little over two weeks, typically just 15 days.

Homes in the Lanarkshire town fetch an average of 163,000, significantly below the 194,000 which the Office for National Statistics said in August was the average Scottish house price.

Although Cumbernauld as a settlement dates back centuries, the town underwent rapid expansion in the decades after the Second World War when thousands of new homes were built to relieve pressure on Glasgow.

The brutalist concrete architecture of Cumbernauld provided the backdrop for Gregorys Girl

Last week, Rightmove published a new Speed of Market report looking at how long it takes houses in each area of the UK to be sold.

Amazingly, as well as Cumbernauld, the other nine of the top ten fastest-selling places in Britain are all in Scotland, including a cluster of towns close to Glasgow such as Renfrew, Cambuslang, Rutherglen, Paisley, Motherwell and East Kilbride.

Kilmarnock and Irvine in Ayrshire, plus Dunfermline in Fife, also feature in the UK top ten, with properties typically selling in less than three-and-a-half weeks. Outside Scotland, the fastest place to sell property is Heaton in Newcastle, where homes take an average of 26 days to find a buyer.

Across the UK, the slowest markets are in coastal areas such as St Austell in Cornwall, where homes are taking 101 days on average to be sold.

A Rightmove spokesman said: Homes across the UK are taking an average of 64 days to sell, but this can vary significantly depending on where you live.

Scotland dominates the top ten, with all of the fastest markets north of the border.

Cumbernauld is now the quickest-selling area across Great Britain, with homes taking an average of just 15 days to sell.

Dee Hepburn and John Gordon Sinclair starred in the 1981 film which was set in Cumbernauld

Glasgow commuter towns also feature prominently.

The faster speed of sales in Scotland is partly linked to the fact that sellers north of the Border must commission a home report, meaning buyers already have much of the information they need to strike a deal.

Last night Rightmove also provided a Scottish city-by-city breakdown of average times for finding a buyer.

In Glasgow and Stirling, homes are coming off the market in 24 days, a process which takes 27 days in Inverness.

Dundee homes are selling in 34 days, slightly quicker than in Perth and Edinburgh, where finding a buyer takes 40 days.

Scotlands slowest city for sales is Aberdeen, where properties remain on the market for an average of 63 days before being sold.
He is rarely seen these days as Parkinsons disease increasingly robs him of his physical and mental abilities.

No wonder then that Sir Billy Connollys attendance at an event near his home in Florida proved to be an emotional moment.

The Big Yin, 82, was guest of honour at the Key West Film Festival and left the crowd in fits of laughter after being honoured with an award for artistic excellence, presented by long-time friends and Hollywood stars Steve Buscemi and Aidan Quinn.

Supporting himself with a walking stick and wearing tight-fitting blue trousers, Sir Billy stood up as Buscemi passed him the blue-coloured award shaped like a water droplet.

And in an emotional moment, he told the crowd around him: I walk with a stick because I suffer from a horrible illness.

' Its a joy to live among you and its a joy to be among you tonight. I dont often do this kind of thing but its smashing.

I have to thank you for this award. I dont know what it is, its a blue thing. Its a joy and it will go beside my other prizes.

Reservoir Dogs star Buscemi, 67, became friends with Sir Billy when they appeared together in the 1998 film The Impostors. He spoke fondly of his regular visits to the comedians former home, Candacraig House in Aberdeenshire.

Sir Billy addresses the crowd as wife Pamela holds the mic for him while Aidan Quinn looks on

The legendary comedian sat in the crowd as organisers played a video charting his career

The crowd heard that Sir Billy and his wife Pamela invited Steve Buscemi and his family to visit Scotland and stay with them in a castle they used to own

He said: One day on set Billy offhandedly mentioned, You know if youre ever in Scotland, Pamela and I have a castle, you should drop by.

We always had the best time. Its wonderful to be here to honour our friend Billy Connolly.

Desperately Seeking Susan star Quinn, 66, emotionally told how the only thing that gave his late brother Paul joy during his battle with cancer was watching videos of Sir Billys stand-up on YouTube.

He told him: I will be forever grateful to you for that. We love you Billy and we thank you for everything.

The Glasgow-born comic was presented with the award before a screening to celebrate the 20th anniversary of The Aristocrats, the film about the dirtiest joke ever told, in which he featured.

As well as his hugely successful comedy career, he appeared in more than 50 films including notable performances in Mrs Brown and The Last Samurai.

Sir Billy moved to Florida when doctors advised him to live in a warmer climate after his Parkinsons diagnosis in 2013.
At least four people are dead after a small boat capsized off the coast of San Diego in the early morning hours on Saturday.

The US Coast Guard and the San Diego County Sheriff's Office were called to Imperial Beach around 12.30am after a panga boat capsized, and one of its occupants was seen floating unresponsive in the water.

At least three others were found dead near the Imperial Beach Pier, and five were taken to the hospital with minor injuries, Fox 5 San Diego and The San Diego Union-Tribune reported.

US Border Patrol saw the boat cross the US-Mexico border, John French, of the Imperial Fire Department, told Sideo TV.

The identities of the deceased have not been publicly released.

Angel Flores had been fishing on the pier when the law enforcement began searching, and said he saw one of the victims floating unresponsively in the water, he told Sideo TV.

'We were out here like just chilling with our friends - me and my brother and his two other friends. And so we were out here for like probably like two hours fishing.

'We noticed that the helicopter was circling around us.'

The US Coast Guard and the San Diego County Sheriff's Office were called to Imperial Beach around 12.30am after a panga boat capsized

Flores' brother was the first to notice one of the deceased occupants 'just in the water, floating.'

Afterward, the group of friends called 911.

No other information has been released by law enforcement.

The Daily Mail has contacted the sheriff's office for comment.

The boat washed up on the shoreline and police officers were seen using flashlights to search for the boat's occupants while water rushed up the sand.

A helicopter was also seen flying around during the search.
Scots have sent a resounding message of defiance to Keir Starmer over his plan to house hundreds of asylum seekers at a historic military base.

War heroes and pensioners joined parents and children in Inverness yesterday to protest against Labours plans to turn Cameron Barracks into accommodation for single male asylum seekers.

The protest, the first since the UK Government announced the new proposals for Ministry of Defence (MoD) sites last month, comes after the Mail on Sunday revealed that a historic veterans association is to be turfed out of its base at Cameron Barracks within weeks to make way for up to 309 asylum seekers.

The Queens Own Highlanders Regimental Association is to be evicted from its office at the barracks as preparations are made for the new arrivals as early as the end of November.

The organisation supports veterans of the regiment, of which the late Prince Philip was Colonel-in-Chief, and has had a base at the site for decades. It has also held veterans reunions there, including events attended by Prince Philip, but plans now to hold its 2026 reunion elsewhere.

Former Scottish Conservatives leader Douglas Ross,an MSP for the Highlands and Islands, said: This protest reinforces the strength of feeling in Inverness and around the Highlands of how completely inappropriate and unacceptable these plans are.

Anti immigration protest in Inverness after it was announced that asylum seekers were to be housed at Cameron Barracks

Cameron Barracks where 300 asylum seekers are to be housed

A Pro immigration protester is led away by police

Ive heard in the last week from many veterans and the families of military personnel who are deeply troubled by what is being proposed.

Keir Starmer and his Government have to listen to these concerns and drop these ridiculous plans to house asylum seekers at Cameron Barracks.

Liberal Democrat MP Angus MacDonald has been raising concerns on behalf of the families of serving personnel living next to the Cameron Barracks site, who are concerned particularly when soldiers are deployed overseas.

Mr MacDonald, who was stationed at the barracks during his time in the army, said: With the battalion being deployed overseas, the military families living directly behind the barracks have voiced their serious concerns about housing asylum seekers at Cameron Barracks.

He also said the Labour Government needs to prioritise speeding up asylum decisions instead of shuttling people to inappropriate sites like Cameron Barracks.

He added: That would ensure people with no right to be here are returned swiftly, and those with valid claims can get on with working, integrating, and contributing to our communities.

Local councillor Isabelle MacKenzie, who represents the Millburn ward which includes the barracks, said she plans to meet with relatives of the army personnel living next to the barracks to discuss their concerns next week.

Speaking from the protest yesterday, the Conservative councillor said: I am very disappointed we have not seen a more joined-up approach to this.

There is a lot of concern among military wives, left alone when their husbands are away serving their country, separated only a by a fence from the Cameron Barracks.

A lot of businesses are also worried. The centre of Inverness is already being plagued by drug-taking and anti-social behaviour.

How is the infrastructure going to cope? People are having difficulty already trying to get an appointment with their GP and dentist.

The UK Government has so far refused to back down from its plan to bring hundreds of asylum seekers to Inverness and the Crowborough training camp in East Sussex, despite local and national outrage.

Highland Council has written demanding a meeting with the Home Secretary over the Inverness proposal and has accused the government of failing to consult with them about it.

Tory MSP Edward Mountain has been raising the issue in the Scottish Parliament and said locals were enraged by the proposals.

He said it would place pressure on an already overstretched public service and said: Its frankly disgraceful that veterans who have put their life on the line for this country have been turfed out in this manner.

Mr Mountain also hit out at th Scottish Government, saying SNP ministers had to urgently engage with Highland Council and local agencies to address these concerns and ensure communities are properly supported.

Andrew Bowie, Shadow Secretary of State for Scotland, said Its an absolute disgrace but not untypical of this government that they are unwilling to engage with the community on such a significant issue.

Serving soldiers are incredibly worried about what this move will mean for their barracks moving forward; a veterans association being made homeless and the local community that feels completely out of the loop.

Its time for Keir Starmer and the Labour party to look again at this decision and engage properly, and meaningfully, with the local community so we can resolve this issue and move forward to a place where soldiers, veterans and the community are happy and find a long term solution for the migrant crisis that we are facing in this country.

Meanwhile, independent MSP Fergus Ewing said: The locals concerns are borne out of genuine fears for safety, and lack of any spare health services at Raigmore.

They are based on realism not racism. I back my constituents call to re-think this flawed plan.

A Home Office spokesperson said: We are furious at the level of illegal migrants and asylum hotels in this country.

It is why work is underway to move asylum seekers into more suitable accommodation such as military bases, to ease pressure on communities across the country.

Public safety remains our first priority. We are working closely with local authorities, property partners and the local community as we transition away from using hotels.
The row between the BBC and Donald Trump has escalated further after it was revealed the broadcaster commissioned a fierce critic of the US President to deliver its flagship annual lectures.

Dutch author Rutger Bregman used the high-profile events to draw parallels between Trump's America and the rise of fascism in the 1930s.

In one talk, entitled A Time Of Monsters and due to air next week, he likened Mr Trump, Nigel Farage and tech billionaires such as Elon Musk to fascists, according to one audience member. He is said to have used the term 'a bit fashy' to describe them.

The BBC's decision to invite Mr Bregman  who has previously described opposition to Mr Trump in the US as a fight between 'good and evil'  to deliver the showpiece Reith lectures will fuel ongoing accusations that the corporation has an institutional left-wing bias.

The White House tonight branded Mr Bregman 'a rabid anti-Trump individual'.

The news comes after the President told reporters on board Air Force One that he was intending to sue the corporation for 'anywhere between $1billion (760million) and $5billion (3.8billion) probably sometime next week' over a Panorama episode that misleadingly edited one of his speeches.

By splicing together words he said as angry protesters descended on Capitol Hill, Washington, on January 6, 2021, the BBC gave the impression that he had made a direct call for violent action. It later emerged that Newsnight had made a similar edit in an episode from 2022.

The corporation has apologised to Mr Trump, but refused to pay him damages.

Tonight, after The Mail on Sunday told the White House about Mr Bregman's lectures, communications director Steven Cheung said: 'The BBC has been caught red-handed doctoring President Trump's remarks on multiple occasions so it's no surprise that they have commissioned a rabid anti-Trump individual to deliver a lecture.'

Donald Trump (pictured) was supposedly likened to a fascist by a fierce critic of the US President during a flagship BBC lecture

And Mr Farage said: 'The BBC is diseased and needs radical surgery at every level, including the removal of the licence fee.'

Tory culture spokesman Nigel Huddleston added: 'This is yet more evidence of the left-wing bias of the BBC. They just can't help themselves'.

The crisis has already led to the resignation of BBC director-general Tim Davie and head of news Deborah Turness. Sir Keir Starmer is due to discuss the issue with the President in a call this weekend.

Mr Bregman's series of talks, collectively titled Moral Revolution, were recorded in London, Liverpool, Edinburgh and the US last month and are due to air on Radio 4 from November 25.

The tone of his anti-populist diatribe has led some senior BBC figures to discuss whether the Trump references should be edited out before it is broadcast to avoid renewed fury from the White House.

A member of the 500-strong audience at the Time Of Monsters lecture in London told The Mail on Sunday that 'it was made very clear that Trump was one of the monsters of the title'.

In that first lecture, Mr Bregman was cheered when he said that the world was on the cusp of neo-fascism and likened Trumpian politics to the anti-democratic forces at play in the 1930s.

The audience member said: 'He basically lumped together Trump with Farage and the tech billionaires as a bit 'fashy'. He said that to combat this we needed a moral campaign on a par with that which abolished slavery.'

During the lectures, Mr Bregman thanked the team behind the event for helping him with the text. Radio 4 controller Mohit Bakaya has called the talks 'a provocation', saying Mr Bregman tells how 'we are in an age of crisis, but offering hope about where we could go'.

Dutch author Rutger Bregman (pictured) used the high-profile events to draw parallels between Trump's America and the rise of fascism in the 1930s

Privileged place on the world stage When the BBCs Reith Lectures were first delivered in 1948, they represented one of the most prestigious intellectual platforms in British public life. Named after the BBCs founding director-general Lord John Reith, right, the talks were intended to stimulate thought and contribute to knowledge  and uphold Lord Reiths belief that broadcasting should enrich the nation. Every year, in this spirit, a leading figure is invited to deliver a series of lectures on contemporary  and lofty  issues which are broadcast on Radio 4 and the World Service. It is considered a huge honour to be invited. Previous lecturers include philosopher Bertrand Russell, who gave the first lectures, and physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer who spoke on quantum theory. More recently, Wolf Hall author Dame Hilary Mantel spoke in 2017 about history. The speakers propose their own themes in consultation with the BBC. Some lectures have been controversial, with accusations of dumbing down, lacking intellectual rigour or being superficial. But this years talks look set to be the most controversial yet. Advertisement

Mr Bregman follows in the footsteps of philosopher Bertrand Russell, physicist Stephen Hawking and Robert Oppenheimer, the father of the nuclear bomb, in delivering the lectures, which began in 1948 in honour of Lord Reith, the BBC's first director-general.

Mr Bregman expanded on his themes over a post-lecture dinner for guests personally invited by Mr Davie in the council chamber in Broadcasting House.

Under the gaze of a portrait of Lord Reith, the guests, including Radio 4 executive Eleanor Garland and David Olusoga, the BBC historian and Celebrity Traitor, dined on venison carpaccio and herb-crusted lamb rump as Mr Bregman talked about the need to organise a 'resistance movement against populism'.

In a Channel 4 interview earlier this year, Mr Bregman said: 'We have seen democracies break down before and we need people to take a stand against that...

'Europeans don't realise how bad the situation is [in the US].

'We are talking about the real chance of an authoritarian breakthrough in the next couple of years.

'This is not normal politics any more. This is not Left versus Right, this is good versus evil.'

Mr Bregman did not respond to a request for comment tonight, while the BBC would not comment beyond confirming the Radio 4 broadcast date.

However a BBC source said: 'The Reith Lectures have a long tradition of showcasing leading thinkers from across the political spectrum.

'The views expressed are always those of the speaker, not the BBC, and they are discussed and challenged after the lecture.'

The Guardian posterboy who doesnt believe in borders

By Glen Owen

Rutger Bregman is a 37-year-old Dutch vegan whose books include Utopia for Realists: How We Can Build the Ideal World.

Beloved by The Guardian  which described him as the 'Dutch wunderkind of new ideas'  he was educated at the universities of Utrecht and California and now lives in Brooklyn, New York with his wife, the photographer Maartje ter Horst, and their two children.

In an interview with the Montreal newspaper Le Devoir, Mr Bregman argued that 'to move forward, a society needs dreams, not nightmares. Yet people are caught in the logic of fear.

'Whether it is Trump, Brexit or...elections in Germany, they vote against the future and instead for solutions to replace it, believing the past was better based on a thoroughly mistaken view of the world...'

He also believes in the 'three core ideas' of a universal basic income paid to everybody whether they work or not, a short working week of 15 hours, and 'open borders worldwide with the free exchange of citizens between all nations'.

In his book Moral Ambition, published earlier this year, he challenged 'conventional career success metrics' such as high salaries and prestigious titles in favour of addressing pressing global issues like climate change and inequality'.

He set out his political philosophy in an interview with Channel 4's Matt Frei six months ago, in which he was described as a 'progressive historian famous for taking on the Davos billionaires' and 'wonderfully dangerous'.

When asked by Mr Frei why voters regarded Donald Trump as the answer to their problems, Mr Bregman  the founder of a 'school for moral ambition'  framed it as a mindset in which 'people who come in to your country are coming to take things away from you'.

He said: 'I live in New York. Europeans don't realise how bad the situation is.'

During an interview with Fox News's Tucker Carlson, Mr Bregman told the anchorman that he and other presenters on the Rupert Murdoch-owned channel were 'millionaires paid by billionaires' who wanted him to 'scapegoat immigrants instead of talking about tax avoidance'.

Mr Carlson responded by calling him a 'moron' and telling him to 'go f*** [himself]'.
British veterans were outraged last night after a new 10 million Falklands War museum in Argentina claimed 1,200 UK troops died  nearly five times the real figure of 255.

They accused Argentina's government of 'a pathetic attempt to rewrite history' at the state-run museum in Patagonia after it insisted the number of British war dead had been covered up.

The veterans are also incensed at a display saying the 1982 war began when 'the British Empire attacked civilians'  and a claim Argentina came close to victory.

The museum in Bariloche was opened at a ceremony with the heads of Argentina's army, navy and air force last month.

Exhibits include a Mirage III interceptor jet which attacked British warships.

One display says the British death toll 'could be close to 1,200, given that British military reports remain secret and will not be revealed until 2072'.

Another display calls the war 'lawful retaliation' after Britain attacked civilians. In reality, the UK saved islanders after an invasion by General Galtieri's military junta.

The battle of Goose Green is labelled 'one of the toughest in the war history of the United Kingdom'. In fact, outnumbered Paras and Marines forced an Argentine surrender within 14 hours.

The museum in Bariloche was opened at a ceremony held last month

Argentina's final surrender after just ten weeks is also 'glossed over', says shocked visitor Steve Douglas, 65, from Wokingham, Berkshire.

'Most offensive is their suggestion that we distorted our casualty numbers in some UK government- inspired cover-up,' he adds.

Lord West of Spithead, a former head of the Royal Navy, who commanded HMS Ardent in the war, says: 'Britain is not a country which covers up the numbers of people killed fighting in war.'

Tom Herring, a former paratrooper and the chairman of the South Atlantic Medal Association 1982, agrees: 'It is a fact that there were 255 British military personnel killed in the war.

'Trying to claim there were more British troops killed in action than there were is an insult to all of those who died in the conflict, both British and Argentinian.'

Jeff Williams, a former Royal Marine Sergeant Major, who also served in the war, adds: 'You can't make a loss out of a win, no matter how hard you try.

'This is a pathetic attempt to rewrite history. I'm not surprised Argentina is trying to convince people the war was not a catastrophic failure for their country.'
New Jersey prosecutors refused to press charges against five men who wrote vile texts about a MAGA school board mom.

The board members - vice president Chad Hyett, Scott Semaya, Lenny Thor, Mitesh Gandhi, and Nirav Kadakia - were exposed for allegedly writing disgusting text messages about MAGA mom-of-three and board member, Danielle Bellomo.

All five men, whose group chat was named ThisB**chNeedstoDie, were running for the three open seats on the Marlboro Board of Education.

One of the men were caught texting the others about Bellomo's nipples during one of the meetings.

Marlboro Police were ready to press charges against the men for terroristic threats, cyber harassment, conspiracy to do harm, and cyber harassment through a deep fake video, but Monmouth County Prosecutors Office declined to pursue it, Bellomo wrote is a now-private Facebook post, viewed by the New York Post.

Monmouth prosecutor Raymond Santiagos office told The Post the offenses didn't reach an 'indictable' level.

'To say the Prosecutors Office decline(d) to move forward in this matter is a mischaracterization,' a spokesperson told the outlet.

'Jurisdictionally, our office is tasked with prosecuting indictable matters, whereas lower offenses are charged and prosecuted at the municipal level. After a careful and thorough evaluation, we advised the Marlboro Police Department that, legally, there was insufficient evidence to constitute an indictable charge.'

New Jersey prosecutors refused to press charges against five men who wrote vile texts about MAGA mom Danielle Bellomo

All five men, whose group chat was named ThisB**chNeedstoDie, where one was seen talking about her nipples

The decision was quickly met with backlash, with many worrying this could create a bigger problem with people saying vile things about others and getting away with it.

'This is going to turn into a total freefall with what were allowed to say,' one person said under Bellomo's post, according to The Post. 'Things are about to get wild.'

Another said she wasn't surprised.

'This is not surprising, unfortunately. Woman to womanI am very glad that youre safe and hope the disgusting pigs that put you through this will stay under their rocks,' she wrote.

The group chat was revealed after someone took a photo of Semaya typing at a July meeting. Semaya later dropped out of the race.

Bellomo and others questioned by the civility policy hadn't been enacted, which says the district will not tolerate threats against board members. It also allows members to be banned if they engaged in disruptive behavior.

A vote to kick out Hyett was not successful.

After an hours long meeting, the board went into an executive session. Bellomo did not attend the meeting.

Vice president Chad Hyett (middle), Lenny Thor (left), Mitesh Gandhi (right) were involved. Prosecutors said they actions were not 'indictable'

Nirav Kadakia was also involved. The decision was quickly met with backlash

Scott Semaya (pictured) allegedly sent the jaw-dropping messages during a school board meeting

Bellomo shared the outcome of the prosecutor's decision to a Facebook group, which has now been made private

Bellomo has accused the board of not protecting her and not taking any action following the vile messages.

Bellomo said she faced threats for months and was certain there were more 'terrifying messages' in the chat she hadn't seen.

The mother is set to appear in court next week to extend her protective order against Gandhi.

On November 4, incumbents Michael Lilonsky ad Valentina Mendez were reelected to the board, and newcomer Kerry Ann Jankowski was also elected.

'It's a sad state of affairs when private communications that were never intended to become public actually went viral as a result of Scott's privacy being invaded. All Scott was ever trying to do was make Marlboro a better place for the children,' Semaya told the Daily Mail through his attorney, Amy Bruno.

The Daily Mail has contacted the four other men and Bellomo for comment.
When The Mail on Sunday revealed a fortnight ago that Labour MPs were plotting to oust Sir Keir Starmer, the four leading contenders to replace him were dubbed the 'drab four' by columnist Richard Littlejohn.

After a week which has veered from farce to tragedy  for Britain's economy and its standing in the world  the field of 'stalking horses' behind the Prime Minister has now widened to Grand National levels.

A disastrous attempt to brief against Health Secretary Wes Streeting has helped him to pull ahead of the rest of the 'drab four'  Angela Rayner, Shabana Mahmood and Ed Miliband  as scheming by Labour MPs accelerates amid mounting panic about Rachel Reeves' 'omnishambles' Budget preparations.

The chaos, which included a humiliating U-turn by Ms Reeves over plans to raise income tax rates, means that a challenge to Sir Keir has moved closer than ever.

Growing numbers of Labour MPs are demanding the removal of No 10 chief of staff Morgan McSweeney, with one saying this weekend: 'It has got to the point where either Morgan goes or the Prime Minister does.

'His removal is essential if Keir is to avoid a challenge. Starmer doesn't understand the level of fury among MPs.'

The fear of a coup helps to explain why Ms Reeves changed her mind about increasing income tax.

A group of MPs nicknamed the 'drab four' are supposedly plotting to oust Sir Keir (pictured)

A disastrous attempt to brief against Health Secretary Wes Streeting (pictured) has helped him to pull ahead of the rest of the 'drab four'

Mr Streeting was publicly opposed to the increase and stood to benefit from the backlash.

It means that the total number of Labour Ministers and MPs considering making a pitch for No 10 is now closer to a dozen.

Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is the favourite among both the public and the Labour Party members who vote in the contest.

However, unlike Mr Streeting, he is currently marooned in the North without a Commons seat.

Mr Streeting's allies hope he will make a move on No 10 before his main rival, Ms Rayner, recovers from her resignation as Deputy Prime Minister for underpaying stamp duty and while the 'King of the North' Mr Burnham is still working out how to re-enter Parliament to launch his own bid.

Because Mr Streeting lags in the ratings among party members  Mr Burnham leads, followed by Ms Rayner  his allies would prefer a 'coronation' to a contest.

A Labour source said: 'We think Wes is trying to push for an early contest before the other candidates can properly mobilise.

'It is not clear how he would get the 80 MPs necessary for the nomination.

'But things can't carry on like they have over the past week. Something has to change'.

Ms Rayner, is said to be mounting a comeback as she recovers from her resignation as Deputy Prime Minister for underpaying stamp duty

Shabana Mahmood and Ed Miliband are also said to be leadership contenders

Last week's game of political dominoes started after McSweeney tried to quell the clamour about Sir Keir's future by giving a briefing to The Times, stating that the PM would fight any challenge.

Because Mr Streeting was not singled out, Mr McSweeney is able to deny he was briefing against him. But others were not so careful.

After The Times article appeared, rival hacks followed it up  and secured direct verdicts on Mr Streeting's perceived ambitions from sources close to Starmer's inner circle.

Darren Jones, the chief secretary to the Prime Minister, who is engaged in a power struggle with Mr McSweeney, is eyed with suspicion over the briefings, though he denies responsibility.

Sir Keir shut down his supposed 'leak inquiry' almost immediately by accepting denials that No 10 was involved and phoning Mr Streeting to apologise, but the damage had been done on the backbenches.

Mr Streeting was convinced that Mr McSweeney was the culprit and made his feelings clear in a 'shouty' phone call to him.

The shambles reveals the ever-shifting struggles and alliances within No 10, which Left-wing Labour MPs say is being subject to a 'stealth takeover' by Tony Blair's key lieutenants.

Sir Keir's national security adviser Jonathan Powell, who ran Mr Blair's Downing Street operation for ten years, is thought to be unimpressed by Mr McSweeney's performance in the same job.

Also in the mix is former Health Secretary Alan Milburn, a non-executive director in Mr Streeting's department.

His title belies his influence, which sources say extends to the vetting of key appointments.

Adding to the sense of a Blairite 'zombie Government' is the recent appointment of PR man Tim Allen, part of Mr Blair's 1990s inner circle, as director of communications, along with the ubiquitous presence of Tom Baldwin, a protege of Blair's spin chief Alastair Campbell and close associate of Mr Allen, who is involving himself in both the No 10 and No 11 operations in multiple, and not always welcome, ways.

Clive Lewis, a Left-wing Labour MP who has been tipped to run as a 'stalking horse' against the PM, said of the Blairites: 'At a time when government is struggling to deliver on its promises, bringing back the same small circle of advisers risks narrowing ideas when we need the opposite.

'If No 10 leans too heavily on figures shaped by an older political moment, we repeat its blind spots.

'The country needs fresh thinking rooted in today's challenges, not a return to a model that has already shown its limits.'

Mr Streeting has started to distance himself from the Blair wing by tacking more towards the Palestinian cause, calling for Ms Rayner's return to government and lavishing praise on Lucy Powell, Labour's deputy leader and a political ally of Mr Burnham.

In addition to Home Secretary Ms Mahmoud and Energy Secretary Mr Miliband, other possible leadership contenders include Defence Secretary John Healey, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, former Transport Secretary Louise Haigh  reported in last week's MoS to be at the centre of plotting in an upmarket Italian restaurant  and Ms Powell.

A Labour MP said: 'There's mounting fury over Starmer's reaction to the briefing crisis. He is out of touch and in denial.

'It took the best part of a day to pick up the phone to Wes'.

A senior Labour source said: 'Initially people thought Keir probably wasn't involved.

But the way he's tried to shrug the whole thing off, not taken any action and tried to push the line No 10 weren't behind the briefings is starting to make people think he did have a role.'

Another source even believes the briefing was designed to boost Mr Streeting, saying: 'Morgan is from Wes's wing of the party. Keir was always the frontman for his project.

'Now he's decided he needs a new frontman.'
The news that Britain's future King had found love at St Andrew's University sent royal fans into a tizzy when it was first reported that Prince William was dating Kate Middleton.

The frenzy heightened when the now-Prince and Princess of Wales announced their engagement on November 16, 2010, since it meant a royal wedding was imminent.

Fresh from their romantic trip to Kenya, where William popped the question, the couple confirmed their nuptials to the press at St James's Palace before sitting down with Tom Bradby for an exclusive interview.

But for Kate, then a young Home Counties girl suddenly thrust into the spotlight, the intimate conversation proved to be a rather nerve-racking affair.

Behind-the-scenes footage from the day of the interview showed the moment William encouraged his anxious fiancee to 'breathe' before Kate quipped: 'I'm not very good at that!'

Writing in her book, Kate: The Future Queen, bestselling author Katie Nicholl reflected on the famous interview as she disclosed the future Princess had been 'dreading' it.

'Afterward Mr Brady remembered her leaning back and sighing with relief, exclaiming, "I'm no good at this!"' she wrote.

To ease her nerves, Kate made a deliberate 'point of placing her hands on her lap so that she didn't fidget with her hair and spoke beautifully in a cut-glass accent', the royal author continued.

As the pair set down to share details about their engagement news with Tom Bradby, behind the scenes footage captured the moment William told his anxious fiancee to 'breathe' before Kate humorously responded: 'I'm not very good at that!'

If she was nervous, the future Queen was certainly right to be; the 15-minute interview was the first time that Kate had spoken publicly, but drew an audience of three billion people across the world.

The Prince and his soon-to-be Princess, who was immaculately clad in a 385 royal blue dress from the now-shuttered label Issa, spoke endearingly about the timeline of their romance while laying out their plans for the future.

The interview was filmed in Clarence House as Kate and William radiated absolute joy at the prospect of spending their lives together.

According to Ms Nicholl, Kate had been rendered 'speechless' at the sight of William on bent knee as she described the proposal as a 'total shock'.

Although they had discussed marriage previously, Prince William humorously added: 'As every guy out there will know, it takes a certain amount of motivation to get yourself going.'

He added that, while he had been planning to propose for a while, 'it just felt really right out in Africa' because it was so 'beautiful'.

Explaining further why he had taken so long to pop the question, William insisted that he had wanted to give Kate a chance to 'back out' if she felt she couldn't cope with life as a future queen.

He added that he was 'trying to learn' from past lessons and had wanted 'to give her the best chance to settle in and see what happens on the other side'.

During a getaway to Kenya in October 2010, Kate's dreams were finally fulfilled when the Prince got down on one knee and asked her to marry him. Side by side in a corner of Clarence House, Kate joked to the camera that the highly-anticipated engagement 'was very romantic'

The 15-minute interview was viewed by more than three billion people worldwide and marked the first time that a fresh-faced young Kate had spoken publicly. Writing in her book, Kate: The Future Queen, bestselling author Katie Nicholl said Kate had been 'dreading the interview'

The future King had asked the all-important question at the II Ngwesi Lodge in Kenya, described by Ms Nicholl as a 'remote log cabin in the heart of the countryside near the great Lake Rutundu'.

William, who had been to the lodge before, 'knew it would be the perfect place to return with someone special'.

He chose to propose with his late mother, Princess Diana's stunning sapphire engagement ring, which cost around 28,000.

The 12-carat oval Ceylon blue sapphire ring was given to Diana by Charles when he proposed in 1981 and had been inspired by Queen Victoria's sapphire brooch, worn as her 'something blue' for her wedding to Prince Albert in 1840.

Hailed as one of the most famous pieces of jewellery in history, the sapphire and diamond engagement ring is estimated to be worth around 300,000.

William said: 'It's my mother's engagement ring, and it's very special to me, as Kate is very special to me now as well. It was only right the two were put together.

'It was my way of making sure mother didn't miss out on today and the excitement and the fact that we're going to spend the rest of our lives together.'

The significance of the dazzling ring was certainly not lost on Kate, who remarked: 'I just hope I look after it. It's very, very special.'

The prince proposed to Kate with his late mother's engagement ring - a 12-carat oval Ceylon blue sapphire surrounded by 14 solitaire diamonds. It is hailed as one of the most famous pieces of jewellery in history and is now estimated to cost upwards of 300,000

The pair had sworn to keep their engagement a secret until William was able to ask Kate's father, Michael Middleton, for her hand in marriage. It went without a hitch, according to Ms Nicholl, as Michael gave his blessing 'without a moment's hesitation'.

Explaining William's prior arrangements, the royal author added: 'Although no one - not even his father or brother - knew of his intention to propose to Kate while away, William had spoken with Harry to make sure his younger brother was happy for him to have their mother's ring, as and when the time came.'

In line with royal protocol, the Prince was then required to ask his grandmother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, for her permission in order for the engagement to go ahead.

And so, in the meantime, Kate's overjoyed father was forbidden from disclosing the incredible news to another soul - including his wife, Carole Middleton.

After securing the Monarch's blessing, Buckingham Palace delighted fans worldwide with confirmation that a royal wedding was on the horizon.

During their conversation with Mr Bradby, William also spoke about his desire for both Kate and her family to be recipients of the 'best sort of guidance' as they navigated this new period.

The late Queen was said to have been highly supportive of William and Kate's romance, and indeed their plans to wed, with Her Majesty first meeting her future granddaughter-in-law at the wedding of Peter Phillips and Autumn Kelly.

Explaining why he had taken so long to pop the question, William insisted that he had wanted to give Kate a chance to 'back out' if she felt she couldn't cope with life as a future queen. He added that he was 'trying to learn' from past lessons

Poll Do YOU think William and Kate are more down-to-earth than the rest of the Royal Family? Yes No Do YOU think William and Kate are more down-to-earth than the rest of the Royal Family? Yes 40517 votes

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'She was very friendly,' Kate recalled.

'She's very welcoming, she knew it was a big day and she had wanted to meet Kate for a while. It was very nice of her to come over and say hello, we had a little chat, and it went very well,' William added.

King Charles was equally delighted that Kate Middleton would become a part of the Royal Family.

Indeed, in 2023, during a speech at a state banquet in Nairobi, his fond feelings for the royal couple were made clear.

'It was here, in sight of Mount Kenya, that my son, the Prince of Wales, proposed to his wife, now my beloved daughter-in-law,' he recalled.

During the engagement interview, the pair also revealed new details about their university romance that 'blossomed' from a friendship.

Things had not always been so smooth sailing for the loving couple. Just a few years prior, in April 2007, Kate and William decided to go their separate ways. During the interview, Kate said: 'At the time I wasn't very happy about it, but it made me a stronger person'

'I think you said I actually went bright red when I met you and scuffled off,' she recounted to the Prince.

'I knew there was something very special about her, and then I knew there was possibly something I wanted to explore there, but we ended up being friends for a while,' William said.

'We were friends for over a year first. It just sort of blossomed from then on.

'We're hugely excited, we're looking forward to spending the rest of our lives together and seeing what the future holds.'

However, things were not always smooth sailing for the couple. Just a few years before their engagement, in April 2007, Kate and William decided to go their separate ways.

During the interview, Kate reflected on their time apart, adding: 'At the time I wasn't very happy about it, but it made me a stronger person.'

A few months later, with the prince apparently having realised what he was missing, they reconciled.

The interview marked the beginning of the so-called 'Kate effect', with the future Princess' mid-length silk dress selling out within 24 hours

The following year, Kate and William wed in a fairytale ceremony held at London's Westminster Abbey. London became engulfed by a blanket of red, white and blue as millions of well-wishers gathered in earnest to catch a glimpse of the Prince and his new Princess

The interview also notably marked the beginning of the so-called 'Kate effect', with the future Princess's mid-length silk dress selling out within 24 hours as fans raced to get their hands on it.

Unfortunately, the surge in demand pushed the brand into administration, as it struggled to keep up with production.

The following year, Kate and William wed in a fairytale ceremony held at London's Westminster Abbey.

London became engulfed by a blanket of red, white and blue as millions of well-wishers gathered in earnest to catch a glimpse of the Prince and his new Princess.

The newleyweds were met with cheers of delight from the public when they shared a tender kiss on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.

Evidently, while young Kate took a gamble in waiting for her Prince Charming, the age-old cliche rang true: 'Good things come to those who wait'.
Prince Harry reportedly failed to tell Buckingham Palace about his trip to Canada to meet veterans as he and Meghan partied with the Kardashians the night before Remembrance Sunday.

The Duke of Sussex, a former captain in the British army, met with veterans during a solo trip to Toronto to mark Armistice Day as the rest of the Royal Family took part in the National Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph in London.

Harry, 41, who completed two tours of Afghanistan, spoke to soldiers from the Queen's Own Rifles of Canada and the Royal Regiment of Canada and later met veterans taking part in a creative arts programme at Toronto's Sunnybrook Hospital.

But the night before Harry and Meghan were among the A-listers to attend Kris Jenner's 70th birthday bash.

Harry was pictured wearing a black tuxedo and red poppy as he strutted in to the James Bond-themed ball thrown by Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez at their $165million Los Angeles estate.

Candid photos showed the Duke and Duchess of Sussex cosying up to the birthday girl - and Harry sashaying towards her on the dancefloor on Saturday night in Beverly Hills.

But hours later they were all mysteriously 'scrubbed' from social media by Kris Jenner and Kim Kardashian, who had shared them with their millions of Instagram followers, prompting furore.

And now it has emerged that the prince failed to inform the Royal Family about his trip to Toronto despite claiming to have done so, according to The Times.

Prince Harry reportedly failed to tell Buckingham Palace about his trip to Canada to meet veterans

The night before Harry and Meghan were among the A-listers to attend Kris Jenner's 70th birthday bash

The Duke's office claimed to have informed the Palace 'as a courtesy' but no one at Buckingham Palace or Kensington Palace was informed before it was released to the media, the newspaper reported.

The Daily Mail has contacted Harry for comment.

The row suggests the tour of the Commonwealth country was not given the royal seal of approval.

It is the latest dispute between Harry and the rest of the royals after he lost his final High Court appeal against the Home Office over the funding of his security.

He has since written to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to ask for police security.

The duke appears keen to improve relations with his father and met him in September for the first time in over a year.

On Remembrance Day Harry published an essay on his website honouring those who have died in war.

In the piece titled The Bond, the Banter, the Bravery: What it Means to be British, he said remembrance 'is not simply a minute's silence', but 'a call to collective responsibility'.

His appearance at Kris Jenner's birthday and the deletion of the pictures has caused uproar.

People Magazine, the Sussexes' preferred publication in the US, claimed that Meghan and Harry asked that no photographs of them inside the James Bond-themed party were published.

Harry spoke to soldiers from the the Queen's Own Rifles of Canada and the Royal Regiment of Canada and later met veterans taking part in a creative arts programme at Toronto's Sunnybrook Hospital

The Toronto trip came as the rest of the Royal Family took part in the National Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph in London

The publication also claimed that it understood the Duke and Duchess of Sussex ticked a 'no' box on a photo consent form, leading to the party images of them on Instagram being removed.

But a source close to the event has strongly refuted the claim to the Daily Mail, saying 'there were no consent forms' - leading to renewed speculation as to why the photos vanished.

Ms Jenner's Instagram post-party round-up showed a series of pictures of her with the couple. Her daughter, Kim Kardashian, shared a photo of herself posing with Meghan. But these were later deleted.

Despite the images being deleted, the pictures of Harry and Meghan are being shared on social media and were published by several websites in the United States.

Harry looked particularly happy in one photo, putting his arm around Ms Jenner, who was standing between him and his wife, with the prince leaning in to bring his face closer to hers.

Meghan looked far more serious, with her hand on Ms Jenner's shoulder.

The former Suits star smiled, but not as widely as her British husband, who in another deleted image appeared to be giddy and shimmying towards their host on the dancefloor.
Internet speeds for 130,000 homes are slower than in Libya, Cameroon and Namibia.

Everyone in the UK has the legal right to get download speeds of 10mbps (megabits per second)  typically fast enough to stream TV programmes.

Video content will buffer below that, while picture-heavy websites will take longer to load.

Yet Daily Mail analysis naming and shaming England's broadband blackspots shows 9% of homes in West Devon reliant on fixed line connection can't physically get that speed.

Last month for comparison, average download speeds were clocked at 10.7mbps in Libya, 11.9mbps in Cameroon and 15.6mbps in Namibia.

War-torn Syria (3.4mbps) ranked bottom of the global league table, said Speedtest, the industry-recognised broadband speed analyser.

Singapore clocked out at the highest with 400.68mbps.

The average figure in the UK was 147.4mbps.

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Yet there were 72,000 residential premises which couldn't get 5mbps, latest figures published by Ofcom show.

Under the 'universal service obligation', rolled out in 2020, consumers have a legal right to request a 'decent' broadband connection  as long as the necessary work wouldn't cost more than 3,400 to carry out.

This is defined as 10mbps download speed and 1mbp upload speed.

The House of Commons Library says this speed allows 'users to stream films, carry out video calls and browse the web at the same time'. At that speed, it would take 13 minutes to download an hour of high-definition TV.

When Ofcom's figures were analysed by local authority, behind West Devon came Torridge, where 8.5% of homes were unable to get 10mbps.

Rounding out the top five were Mid Devon (6.2%) and then East and West Lindsey in Lincolnshire (both 4%).

At the other end of the scale, 39 councils had no premises below the USO threshold.

Ofcom data allows even smaller areas of broadband availability to be analysed, tiny pockets of the country made up of known as middle super output areas (MSOAs)  neighbourhoods home to around 10,000 people.

The worst one in the country for the 10Mbps connection was Lympne and Palmarsh in Folkestone and Hythe.

There, 47 out of 51 households on fixed line internet (92.2%) couldn't receive 10mbps download speeds.

Experts believe that much of England's connectivity woes can be traced back to a planning oversight of the Margaret Thatcher government in 1992.

Throughout the 1980s, BT was rolling out fibre optic technology to connect the country in a programme known as the 'local loop'.

However in 1991, Whitehall felt that American and Japanese companies should be able to buy into building the network too, so ended BT's roll out.

To this extent, Britain's broadband capabilities have never recovered.

Ernest Doku, a broadband expert at price comparison website Uswitch, told the Daily Mail: 'Despite the progress being made in the full-fibre roll-out, some cant access fast broadband speeds because full-fibre has yet to reach everyone.

'The connections in some rural and remote communities still rely on older copper wires, which were never designed for today's internet demands.

Your browser does not support iframes.

'Laying fibre in these areas is often logistically difficult and expensive, meaning they are the last to benefit from the roll-out.'

Price comparison experts MoneySupermarket.com recommends a household with multiple internet users should have between 30-60mbps.

Today, up to 85.5% of England has gigabit availability, regarded as the gold standard, according to internet service aggregator, ThinkBroadband.

A gigabit is 100 times faster than the USO.

Ofcom's figures looked at fixed lines and fixed wireless access.

The Universal Service Obligation (USO) covers fixed broadband and fixed wireless access services for 10mbps.

However the Ofcom figures analysed by the Mail relate to fixed wired lines only but not fixed wireless access.

This is because experts says fixed wireless is more likely to deliver a less reliable internet connection than a fibre optic cable.

The country comparison figures from Speedtest reflect download speeds in September.

An Ofcom spokesperson said: 'We dont recognise these figures. Our data shows that more than 99% of UK premises can receive decent broadband as defined by the Universal Service Obligation.

'We expect the number of remaining properties to continue to fall, and other options such as satellite broadband may be available where theres not yet a fixed connection.'
From voice-activated light switches to 'smart' automatic beds, there are now hundreds of ways to automate your home.

But in the age of the smart home, many people are now pushing back.

For TikTok influencers and high-end designers, the 'dumb home' is the latest trend.

That means ditching the smart assistants and appliances in favour of landline phones, reading nooks, and custom light switches.

Even simple touches that were once taken for granted are now considered a sign of luxury.

According to Massimo Buster Minale, founder and creative director of Buster & Punch, today's discerning home owners are much more interested in 'tactile elements'.

Mr Minale told Daily Mail: 'After years of tech-driven homes, people are definitely returning to a love of analogue features.

'We are seeing more than ever, our customers are moving away from chasing convenience, instead craving physical touch and connection.'

Even as home automation gets more ubiquitous, people are starting to push back against the smart home in favour of the new 'dumb home' trend

Tech-free is the latest status symbol: Data from Zillow shows that reading nooks are now being mentioned 48 per cent more often in home listings than a year ago

For tech enthusiasts, the allure of the smart home was the chance to make domestic life completely frictionless.

By spending thousands of pounds, homeowners could have lights that turned on automatically with the morning alarm, blinds that opened themselves, and fridges that write your shopping list.

However, the reality of the smart home dream is often far less convenient.

On social media, former home automation fans complain about being woken up by out-of-control lights, security systems crashing or shutting off, and spiralling costs of hundreds of devices that constantly break or need replacing.

In one post on Reddit, a smart home fan announced that they would be ditching their eight-year-long automation project because 'my family of 4 (including me), never uses 90 per cent of the tech'.

Things are even worse for people who move into existing smart homes and are forced to grapple with the former owners' complicated automation routines.

But it isn't just former tech junkies who are getting ready to ditch their cumbersome gadgets.

Today, more and more people are looking for a 'dumb home' rather than a smart one.

Designers say that analogue features like custom light switches are a new, quiet luxury statement piece, as homeowners get tired of automated and smartphone-controlled lights

What is a 'dumb home' 'Dumb homes' are houses where the owners have tried to remove as much technology as possible. The trend is a reaction to the idea of a smart home. Smart homes use the so-called 'internet of things' to connect devices and appliances into a network that users can control and automate. By contrast, dumb homes favour analogue devices such as manual dimmer switches, and landline phones. Dumb phones also include electronic-free spaces such as reading nooks. Fans of the trend say this helps them appreciate their time at home, disconnect from social media, and enjoy more quality time with their family. Advertisement

Mr Minale says: 'We are seeing more than ever, our customers are moving away from chasing convenience, instead craving physical touch and connection - but not Wi-Fi!'

According to design media brand Dwell, the decline of the smart home was one of the trends of the year for 2025 and beyond.

Homeowners are increasingly looking to create electronics-free spaces in their homes, rather than filling the house with more tech.

According to Zillow's 2026 Home Trends Report, reading nooks are now being mentioned 48 per cent more often in home listings than a year ago.

This is especially true in the bedroom, where an emphasis on sleep health and digital detoxes is replacing the craving for automated alarms and electronic blinds.

Mark Tremlett, founder of bedroom design firm Naturalmat, told Daily Mail: 'More and more of our customers tell us theyre choosing to keep their bedrooms completely tech-free, no TVs, no voice assistants, and no chargers by the bed.

'They want a space that feels genuinely peaceful, focused on natural, healthy materials and better sleep quality.'

Meanwhile, designers are seeing a massive resurgence in demand for retro features.

Bedroom designers Naturalmat say that their customers are increasingly looking to create entirely tech-free spaces with no TVs, no voice assistants, and no chargers by the bed

Mr Minale says that the light switch is now 'back as a design statement'.

He adds: 'People love the ritual of dimming the lights by hand, the satisfying solidity of the click and instant response. The more time we spend in digital worlds, the more we crave objects that feel real.'

Homeowners are now prepared to splash out thousands of pounds to refit their houses with custom analogue switches.

Ultra-high-end UK-based firm Fobes & Lomax creates historically accurate manual switches that cost upwards of 800 each.

But besides smart lights, some people are now looking to ditch their smartphones as social media influencers rave about getting landlines or 'kitchen phones'.

These vintage-style devices connect via Bluetooth to the user's mobile so that they don't need a landline connection or separate phone bill.

In stark contrast to the app-controlled tech of a smart home, fans say a landline is perfect for when you need to be reachable but want to put your phone away and enjoy time at home.

In one viral video with over 450,000 views, TikToker user Hannah Yoder showed off her new landline phone.

Another retro revival is the landline telephone, which is being hailed by TikTok users as the perfect way to help use a smartphone less

Interior designer Ken Fulk says he wanted the six-story Algonquin Club in Boston (pictured) to be a 'dumb home', and even installed vintage phone booths for guests to make calls in

Ms Yoder wrote: 'I remember when I was little and I would get so excited to pick up the home phone at my grandma's when allowed or call someone.

'This will help to put away the screen and not be readily available 24/7 which means more intentional time with family.'

But Ms Yoder isn't alone in her quest to make the home a smartphone-free zone.

When interior designer Ken Fulk was tasked with redesigning the six-story Algonquin Club in Boston, building a 'dumb home' was at the forefront of his mind.

Mr Fulk decided to install retro phone booths in the legendary clubhouse to offer privacy for phone calls and to give people a reason to leave the smartphone behind.

'I think there are a couple of different reasons why the pendulum is swinging toward an analogue experience at home,' Mr Fulk told Daily Mail.

'We are so inundated with information and perhaps tired of feeling tethered to our devices that, when we come home, we want to be able to disconnect.

'I often repeat the mantra that "time is the greatest luxury, and while so much modern-day tech was designed to save us time, we all have to remind ourselves to make the most of that time saved.'
Long before US tourists first discovered the enormous crested waves that lash Bali's lush southern coastline, back in the early 1930s, the soft-sand beach of Kuta belonged entirely to local villagers.

Nearly a century of tourism later, with visitor numbers ramping up in every decade since, Kuta has evolved into Indonesia's paradise lost, red-flagged as one of the biggest over-tourism hotspots in Southeast Asia.

The swaying palms and golden beach on the Indonesian island remain exactly as they were, only now enveloped by brashness: rowdy bars, tourist shops and monolithic hotels changing the landscape.

Year-round, budget travellers, the lion's share from Australia, arrive in their droves - contributing to traffic and pollution - to surf and party.

Kuta's story is an increasingly familiar one across the region, with the mystical backpacker trail that was carved out in the 1970s largely lost to commercialism. If you want a McDonald's in Kuta at 4am...there's three of them, all open 24 hours, to choose from.

The next victim in the region overtourism looks set to also claim? The island of Lombok.

Once touted as an alternative beach nirvana off radar for most tourists, it has been 'Bali-fied' in recent years, with many of its beach resorts already mini Kutas in the making.

Roughly two hours' east by boat from Bali, or a two-hour flight from Indonesian capital, Jakarta, Lombok has all the spellbinding natural assets of its near neighbour.

Bali now welcomes 6.3 million travellers to its shores every year - but tourism has come at a price for the island, with resorts such as Kuta crowded year-round, and Bali's south plagued by traffic congestion

Discovered by US tourists nearly a century ago, Kuta, has become one of Indonesia's best-known surf spots... but crowd-free scenes like the above are now a rarity

There's miles of surf-perfect beaches, a verdant interior - featuring 3,726m-high Mount Rinjani, Indonesia's second-largest volcano - and crystalline waters.

Who made the decision to sell Lombok as 'the new Bali'? It came from the top, with Indonesia's government actively seeking out destinations ripe for major tourist development in a bid to bolster the nation's economy.

Lombok's tourism figures are soaring, 40 per cent more overseas visitors holidayed on the island in 2024 than they did in the previous year.

Mandalika, a region on Lombok's south coast, has been a particular focus of investment.

The motorcycle MotoGP Grand Prix took place at the Mandalika International Street Circuit with a record crowd of 142,000 people, many of them from overseas, watching the action live.

The track was completed in 2021 - with local families uprooted to make way for it.

Travel and consumer trends analyst Gary Bowerman, based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, says there are several factors contributing to overtourism in the region, including cheaper travel - 60% of all flight seats in Asia are with budget carriers, combined with tourists wanting to tick off 'obvious' destinations.

Trips are often short too, he tells the Daily Mail, meaning that people don't radiate too far from major Asian gateways such as Bangkok, Phuket, Kyoto, Tokyo or Seoul.

The 'Bali-fication' of Lombok: Neighbouring Indonesian island Lombok has been encouraged to take the tourism strain from Bali... but now risks its own beaches turning into mini Kutas. The Mandalika MotoGP Circuit (pictured) was built in 2021 - but saw locals ousted from their villages to make way for it

Two hours from Bali by boat, and a two-hour flight from Jakarta, Lombok saw tourist numbers leap by 40 per cent last year (Pictured: The island's Mount Rinjani volcano)

He explains: 'If we go back to the 80s and 90s, we were going to Spain, France, Italy, the US... we would visit the obvious places, then would find our feet and go to other destinations.

'That's a lot of what is happening in Asia at the moment; tourism there is still a young industry. There's also a great deal of value consciousness - people want to go where flights are cheap.'

'Bali, for example, has become a tourist island, particularly in the south. Balinese culture is very strong but it's being challenged by the volumes of visitors. Travel and tourism to Asia isn't going to slow down though.'

Bali currently sees 6.3 million overseas visitors descend every year. Plans for a new airport in the island's north to try and deal with the congestion in the south may just see overtourism play out in a different part of the island, says Bowerman, rather than solving the island's traffic crisis.

Which destinations should you visit now, before they potentially get the Bali treatment?

Bowerman says: 'Southeast Asia and Japan and Korea has been pretty well discovered - but there are still areas that are not as congested as destinations such as Lombok and Bali.'

PARADISE BEFORE ITS LOST? THE ASIAN DESTINATIONS TO DISCOVER NOW Picked by Mattia Valdegamberi, product manager Southeast Asia at Wendy Wu Tours: Sabah, Borneo: 'Backed by rainforest and fringed by coral reefs, Borneos coastline around Kota Kinabalu offers a wild yet luxurious escape.' Palawan, Philippines: 'Home to the crystal lagoons and limestone cliffs of El Nido and Coron, Palawan is every bit as breathtaking as Thailands Andaman coast  yet still feels refreshingly undiscovered.' Take me to the beach: Dreamy Entalula Island in the Palawan province of the Philippines Komodo and Flores, Indonesia: 'These untouched islands of Komodo and Flores boast pink-sand beaches, active volcanoes and coral-rich waters. Travellers can witness the legendary Komodo dragon, explore traditional villages and cruise between pristine islets that remain delightfully uncrowded.' Picked by Janin Leach, Senior Product Executive for Southeast Asia at Audley Travel: Khanom, Thailand: 'A quiet fishing town on Thailand's southeastern coast, with a secluded beach, and a small number of other holidaymakers and local fishermen for company. Don't miss a boat trip to see rare pink dolphins.' Just the two of us: Janin Leach, senior product executive for Southeast Asia at Audley Travel, recommends the balmy waters around Koh Lipe (pictured) in Thailand for a quieter stay Koh Lipe, Thailand: 'So small that it can be walked across in 30 mins, visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the calm waters, or snorkel among the corals (and sea turtles).' Sumba, Indonesia: 'An easy two-hour flight from Balis Denpasar, Sumba has tranquility and white sandy beaches. Enjoy traditional tribal culture mixed with a relaxing beach stay and excellent diving.' Advertisement

'Indonesia's a huge country. It has many, many islands, there are parts of Laos, there's Timor-Leste (East Timor), there's the highlands of Vietnam, but the challenge [for tourists] with those destinations is the infrastructure...it's not so easy to get there.'

Experts at tour operators that specialise in Southeast Asia agree there's still plenty of scope for two weeks of adventure without succumbing to tourist traps.

'Islands like Komodo and Flores in Indonesia, Sabah in Borneo, and Palawan in the Philippines are stunning examples of places where travellers can still find that raw, unspoilt beauty thats increasingly rare in the worlds most visited destinations.

'Each offers the same turquoise waters, world-class diving, and jungle-clad scenery as their more famous neighbours  but without the crowds.

'For travellers seeking authenticity and connection rather than queues and crowds, these lesser-known shores are the true Southeast Asia of old.'

Janin Leach, senior product executive for Southeast Asia at Audley Travel, told the Daily Mail that both Indonesia and Thailand are both still ideal for holidays away from the madding crowd if you know where to go.

Leach says: 'With forested hiking trails and cave complexes, Khanom in Thailand is a great option. This quiet fishing town is located on the southeastern coast of the country, about a 90-minute drive from Surat Thani Airport.'

'Also in Thailand, Koh Lipe is an excellent choice for a lesser-visited island. It is so small that it can be walked across in 30 minutes, and visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the calm waters, or snorkel among the corals (and sea turtles).

'For an active day, I suggest taking a boat to nearby Koh Adang to hike the trails leading to hidden waterfalls, and to see Koh Lipe from above.'

'And in Indonesia, Sumba is an easy two-hour flight from Balis Denpasar and the island offers tranquillity white sandy beaches, and fewer visitors than the popular alternatives.

'This is the ideal place to head for traditional tribal culture mixed with a relaxing beach stay and excellent diving.'
It's November, which means annual traditional Christmas markets are opening up across Europe.

From budget-friendly options in the UK to centuries-old alternatives across the continent, there's something for all tastes.

Now, Europe's best-value city break has been revealed - and it will cost just 500 for a two-night stay including flights and meals.

UK holidaymakers seeking a bargain Christmas markets break should head to the Baltic states, according to new research.

Lithuanian capital Vilnius was found to have the lowest price for a two-night trip for two people out of 15 European destinations analysed by Post Office Travel Money.

Vilnius was crowned as the best value in the Post Office's Christmas Market Barometer.

The citys average total was just 509, calculated by combining the costs of return flights, two nights of three or four-star accommodation, airport transfers, two evening meals with wine, coffee, festive drinks and Christmas market snacks.

Riga, in neighbouring Latvia, took the second spot with an average cost of 555.

Vilnius was crowned as the best value in the Post Office's Christmas Market Barometer

Riga, in neighbouring Latvia, took the second spot with an average cost of 555

Vilnius and Riga are now cheaper for a two-night weekend break than last years best buy Bratislava, where prices have risen by over 11 per cent.

Vilnius is more than than eight per cent cheaper than in runner up Riga, where prices have risen 1.8 per cent.

However, prices for meals, drinks and airport transfers are lower in Riga (178) than in Vilnius (182).

The analysis took into account costs such as return flights, bed and breakfast accommodation, meals and refreshments bought at the markets.

Prices have fallen in about half of the destinations included in the study, despite sterling's fall in value against European currencies over the past year.

Denmark's Copenhagen was found to be the most expensive destination, with the basket of goods being more than twice as expensive there compared with Vilnius.

Two three-course meals for two with a bottle of wine typically costs 305 in Copenhagen and just 138 in Vilnius, according to the study.

Germany's Berlin has risen from 11th place last year to take the eighth spot, as costs for flights and accommodation are down 22 per cent.

However, prices for meals, drinks and airport transfers are lower in Riga

It is the 'best value western European city surveyed', Post Office Travel Money said.

Laura Plunkett, head of travel money at Post Office, said: 'A short break to one of Europe's colourful Christmas markets is an attractive holiday option at this time of year.

'However, sterling's drop in value is an important factor for travellers to consider before booking a trip because this varies between currencies.'

She added: 'Budget-conscious travellers stand to save hundreds of pounds if they choose carefully.'
Passengers have been left stranded after a British airline collapsed and immediately cancelled all of its flights.

Channel Islands-based carrier Blue Islands has ceased operations and grounded all planes.

The airline, which employed around 100 staff, had been running services to various destinations across the British Isles and beyond for two decades.

The Jersey-based operator announced on Friday it had stopped trading and cancelled all bookings.

Blue Islands, which operated a fleet of five ATR-72 aircraft, had its headquarters in Guernsey but chiefly linked Jersey with airports in England, including Bristol, Exeter and Southampton.

The airline's website tells passengers: 'We regret to inform you that Blue Islands has suspended trading effective on 14 November 2025.

'All future flights operated by Blue Islands have been cancelled. Please do not travel to the airport unless you have made alternative travel arrangements.

'We deeply regret the inconvenience that this will bring to your travel plans.'

Passengers have been left stranded after a British airline collapsed and immediately cancelled all of its flights (stock image)

Thousands of passengers who have advance bookings with the carrier are encouraged to contact their bank or payment card provider if they booked directly.

Blue Islands further stated: 'For bookings made through our codeshare partner Aurigny but travelling on a Blue Islands flight, please contact Aurigny directly  some flights may still be operating.

'For bookings made through a travel agent or holiday company, please contact the company through whom you booked for advice and guidance.'

The Jersey government provided Blue Islands with 8.5million in funding, with a report in August 2025 showing that 7million remained unpaid.

Elaine Millar, Jersey's minister for Treasury and Resources, said: 'I am saddened by the announcement that Blue Islands has suspended operations, and my immediate thoughts are with the people whose jobs have been affected and the passengers whose travel will be disrupted.'

She confirmed: 'For those employees based in Jersey, government support is ready and available.'

She also stressed the vital nature of air links for the island and provided reassurance that backup measures were already prepared to quickly restore connections, adding: 'Government is working with an alternative airline to ensure that Jersey has reliable and sustainable air links for the long term.'

Aurigny and Loganair have confirmed they are adding additional services to their timetables to assist Blue Islands passengers.

Loganair announced it was launching services from Jersey to Guernsey, Exeter, Bristol and Southampton alongside Guernsey to Southampton from Sunday, whilst Aurigny has introduced flights for the Southampton to Guernsey and Guernsey to Jersey routes 'initially until Wednesday'.

Both carriers confirmed special fares were being offered on the services to help passengers who needed to travel on any of the impacted routes.

A Loganair statement said: 'We understand this will be a worrying time for those hoping to travel to and from Jersey and in response we're starting operations from Sunday 16 November.'

An Aurigny spokesperson said the airline was 'deeply saddened' about Blue Islands ceasing trading.

'Following the announcement that Blue Islands has entered administration, Aurigny is taking immediate action to assist Blue Islands customers across the Channel Islands,' the spokesperson added.

The downfall of Blue Islands marks the second regional airline to collapse in less than three weeks after Eastern Airways' cessation of operations on 28 October.

A spokesperson for Ports of Jersey said: 'This is another sad day for regional aviation, coming so soon after the news about Eastern Airways.

'For almost two decades, the Blue Islands brand has played a vital role in the UK's regional aviation market, serving Channel Island communities year-round with essential air connectivity.'
EastEnders icon Shaun Williamson is set to return to Walford this December.

The actor, 60, who is widely known for portraying the role of Barry Evans in the BBC soap from 1994 until 2004, will reprise his role for a special episode as part of Nigel Bates's dementia storyline.

Earlier this year, Nigel, portrayed by actor Paul Bradley, 70, revealed that he was suffering from dementia as he opened up to Yolande Trueman, portrayed by Angela Wynter.

And in the upcoming episode, Barry will make an appearance alongside step-mother Pat in The Queen Vic when Nigel's dementia symptoms intensify.

Although their relationship was fraught in the land of the living, Pat and Barry will put aside their differences to help Nigel in his time of need.

The special episode will transmit in December, and EastEnders has been working closely with Dementia UK on Nigel's storyline since its inception.

EastEnders icon Shaun Williamson is set to return to Walford this December (pictured 2001)

The actor, 60, who is widely known for portraying the role of Barry Evans in the BBC soap from 1994 until 2004, will reprise his role for a special episode as part of Nigel Bates's dementia storyline

Speaking on his return to EastEnders, Shaun said: 'It was a complete shock getting the call to go back to Albert Square, but so exciting!

'I have to admit to a few nerves (loads!) when I walked back onto the set of The Queen Victoria, but it was so great to work with old friends and colleagues on such a brilliant episode. Just goes to show, you never know whats around the corner!'

Ben Wadey, EastEnders Executive Producer, added: 'Im delighted to welcome Shaun Williamson back to EastEnders for Nigels special episode.

He continued: 'Barry Evans was renowned for being one of Walfords unluckiest residents, most notably for his choice of shoes, and so it was a privilege to welcome him back alongside Pat for these special scenes in The Vic.'

It's been over 21 years since Barry last stepped into Walford. However, his character remains etched into the history of the show for his inherent bad luck, hopeless love life, and epic feud with step-mother Pat Evans.

After a series of failed romances, Barry thought he had finally found his match when he married Walford's Janine Butcher, but their relationship proved to be most fateful of all.

He unknowingly made a wardrobe faux pas by not wearing slip-on shoes and fell to his untimely death in 2004 when Janine pushed him off a cliff.

The news comes days after it was revealed that Pam St Clement is set to make her comeback this December too.

Speaking on his return to EastEnders, Shaun said: 'It was a complete shock getting the call to go back to Albert Square, but so exciting!' (pictured 2001)

He continued: 'I have to admit to a few nerves (loads!) when I walked back onto the set of The Queen Victoria, but it was so great to work with old friends and colleagues on such a brilliant episode' (pictured last month)

The news comes days after it was revealed that Pam St Clement is set to make her comeback this December too (pictured on the soap in 2011)

The actress, 83, who is widely known for portraying the role of Pat Butcher in the BBC soap from 1986 until January 2012, will also reprise her role for a special episode as part of Nigel Bates's dementia storyline.

As Nigel's memories and altered reality take him back to the 1990s, Pat will return to The Queen Vic to help Nigel when his dementia symptoms intensify following an emotional evening at his festive film screening.

Speaking on her return to EastEnders, Pam said: 'I was both surprised and excited to be asked back to tread the streets of Walford once again and to be involved in Nigel's touching dementia storyline.

'It was lovely to be welcomed back by those with whom I had worked for so long. It was just like coming home.'

Ben Wadey, EastEnders Executive Producer, added: 'Its an honour and a privilege to welcome Pam St Clement back to EastEnders for a special episode in Nigel's ongoing dementia storyline.

He continued: 'Pat Evans is one of the most cherished and iconic characters to have graced the streets of Walford, and I know I speak on behalf of everyone when I say what a delight it was to see Pat and Pam back in The Queen Vic as she helps Nigel in his time of need.'

Pat last stepped foot in Albert Square back in May 2016 when she returned as a figment of Peggy's (Barbara Windsor) imagination on the night of her death as Peggy bid farewell to her character and the Square one final time.

However, Pat officially left EastEnders back in 2012 when her character died of cancer on New Year's Day.
With a scarred face, tattered sailor suit and grotesque toy dog, Robert the Doll looks like a nightmare come to life.

Locked up in a Florida Museum, his shoes sit frayed around the edges, and his hands disproportionately large.

Matted hair and ghostly skin greet anyone taking a peek, and his otherwise honorable uniform looks like it has been fading under a brutal sun - or fluorescent lighting - for decades.

But even beyond his horrifying features, many have come to believe Robert hosts a malevolent spirit, just waiting to take its next victim.

Legend has it a spiteful maid cursed Robert with voodoo before he was given to a young boy. Robert's terrifying reputation grew so strong that he inspired the Chucky franchise.

Now, top psychics are issuing warnings about the 120-year-old doll's evil powers.

At 120 years old, Robert the Doll (pictured) - a 40-inch straw-stuffed relic - looks like something torn from a nightmare

His scarred face, tattered sailor suit and grotesque toy dog disguise what many believe is a vessel for a malevolent spirit

For paranormal expert Matt Fraser (pictured), the warning is clear: Robert isn't just a creepy doll - he's a dangerous conduit for 'dark and ritualistic energy,' and anyone tempted to get too close risks paying the price

Under supervision at the Fort East Martello Museum, Robert is said to curse anyone who dares to photograph him, with victims reporting injuries and sending apology letters.

Even the late rock icon Ozzy Osbourne wasn't safe in 2020, claiming a visit to the museum left him cursed by Robert, which he said contributed to his declining health.

For medium Matt Fraser, the warning is clear: Robert isn't merely a creepy doll, he is a vessel of 'dark and ritualistic energy,' and approaching him risks serious consequences.

'Most people think hauntings begin with a place, but in reality, they often begin with an object. Dolls are powerful symbolic vessels, and when a spirit becomes attached, the object gains attention,' Fraser exclusively told the Daily Mail.

He warned that negative entities feed on attention and grow stronger when people interact with them.

The safest approach, he said, is to keep the object secured, protected and away from the public.

Before the doll arrived at the museum in 1994, he belonged to Robert Eugene 'Gene' Otto of Key West, according to the Robert the Doll organization.

A birthday gift from Otto's grandfather, the doll was likely a Steiff Company display - the same company that claims to have made the first teddy bear.

Once he joined the Otto household, the doll became little Gene' constant companion.

The boy dressed Robert in his own clothes and carried him everywhere, whispering secrets and stories to the doll as if he were alive.

'What people really remember is what they would probably term as an unhealthy relationship with the doll,' Cori Convertito, curator of the museum, explained in 2020.

Robert reportedly freaked out the late Prince of Darkness, Ozzy Osbourne, who blamed a replica of the doll for cursing his life before finally destroying it

Fraser told the Daily Mail, 'Spirits do not suddenly jump into dolls for no reason. The only times I have seen this occur are when someone intentionally does something dark or ritualistic, creating an opening for lower energies'

'He brought it everywhere. He talked about it in the first person as if he weren't a doll, he was Robert - as in, he is a live entity.'

Otto's parents reportedly woke one night to their son screaming, surrounded by overturned furniture.

Then, mutilated toys began appearing around the house, and the boy would cry, 'Robert did it!'

'Spirits do not suddenly jump into dolls for no reason,' Fraser told the Daily Mail. 'The only times I have seen this occur are when someone intentionally does something dark or ritualistic, creating an opening for lower energies.'

As Otto grew up, he took Robert with him, installing him in a special room in the attic of his home, known as the Artist House, complete with furniture, toys and even a teddy bear of his own.

Otto's wife, Anne, however, was far less enthusiastic about the doll's presence. She insisted that Robert remain locked away, fearing the eerie energy and unsettling stories that seemed to follow him.

The doll reportedly 'resisted' and situated himself in a chair facing out of an upstairs window, where he could be seen by passersby.

Locals swore Robert's gaze followed them, and visitors claimed to hear footsteps and objects moving mysteriously throughout the home.

Osbourne hauled the replica to a mine, wired it with explosives and blasted it to pieces

'The whole thing freaked him out and he thinks there's something in the curse,' Jack Osbourne said on the show. 'I'm not so sure, but I did get divorced soon afterwards'

'I have seen rare situations where someone's home became suddenly and intensely haunted, and they had no idea where the energy was coming from,' Fraser said.

'When paranormal activity appears out of nowhere, it can very often be traced back to something that was recently brought into the home.

'This happens more often than people realize These objects can cause nightmares, anxiety, emotional disturbances, streaks of bad luck or unexplained hauntings.'

After Otto died in 1974, Myrtle Reuter bought the Artist House and became Robert's new caretaker.

Reuter reportedly took Robert with her when she moved in the 1980s.

In 1994, she donated the doll to the Fort East Martello Museum, claiming he was haunted.

Almost immediately, museum staff reported their own bizarre experiences.

'People often ask why these dolls are not simply destroyed,' Fraser told Daily Mail. 'The answer is that you cannot destroy them without harming the spirit that is bound to them. The spirit must be contained, not attacked.'

Ceomedian Matt Rife (right) purchased the Warren's home and Occult Museum in August, becoming the legal guardian of the infamous 'demonic' Annabelle doll (center)

Paranormal investigator Zak Bagans (left) featured Annabelle in an episode of Deadly Possessions, where it was brought to his Las Vegas museum

'That is why Ed and Lorraine Warren kept certain objects secured and out of public reach. Their goal was to stop the spirit from influencing or attaching to new objects.'

His comparison to the famed Warren couple is inevitable: The paranormal experts are best known for locking up the 'demonic' Annabelle doll, ensuring the infamous doll could not terrorize the public.

Annabelle has her own twisted history, from allegedly physically attacking someone to rumors of a man dying in a motorcycle crash after taunting her.

But the chilling history didn't stop comedian Matt Rife from purchasing the Warren's home and Occult Museum in August, becoming the legal guardian of the doll.

Two nurses claimed Annabelle wreaked havoc on their lives in the 1970s, so they turned to paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren (pictured) for help

A made-for-cinema version of Annabelle is seen in the 2019 movie Annabelle Comes Home

Paranormal investigator Zak Bagans previously featured Robert in an episode of Deadly Possessions, where it was brought to his Las Vegas museum.

The show centered on Robert's alleged curse and included an interview with one of his supposed victims seeking help from Bagans.

Still, visitors line up at the Fort East Martello Museum, sending letters to Robert - some seeking advice, and many apologizing for perceived slights and begging for forgiveness.

Many have claimed misfortune if they ignore Robert's rule: Always ask permission before taking a photo.

'He gets probably one to three letters every day,' Convertito said in 2020.

That was also when Robert unnerved Ozzy Osbourne, who blamed a replica for cursing his life after first encountering the doll at the Florida museum.

'That thing is bad luck,' he said on Ozzy & Jack's World Detour in 2020. 'The guy who runs the museum told us people buy the replica dolls of Robert then send them back because things start to go bad.'

Still, Ozzy and his son Jack brought the doll home - they claimed chaos followed immediately.

Move over, Annabelle - a far more sinister doll is terrifying experts, and one psychic says the danger is real

'It started as a joke,' Jack said on the episode. 'But then it took on a life of its own. You have to be polite with Robert - ask if you can take a picture with him, and if you disrespect him he'll curse you.'

Although Ozzy had survived drug addiction and a serious quad bike accident, his health reportedly worsened after encountering Robert, including pneumonia, multiple spinal surgeries, chronic pain and a 2020 Parkinson's diagnosis.

'The whole thing freaked him out and he thinks there's something in the curse,' Jack said on the show. 'I'm not so sure, but I did get divorced soon afterwards.'

Ultimately, Ozzy hauled the Robert the Doll replica to a mine, wired it with explosives, and blasted it to pieces.
A British OnlyFans star has revealed the truth behind Aussie men's sex habits  and the one thing she hates about dating Down Under.

Arabella Mia has been living in Brisbane for two months, and she's already picked up some of the top trends and red flags among locals  and a few will raise some eyebrows.

But one of the things that really shocked the sex worker when moving across the globe was how different Aussies are to Brits when it comes to dating.

'I think Australian men are more reserved. They have this sort of presence where it's like, I have to go up to speak to them if we were out in public,' she revealed.

Arabella went on to say that men from the United Kingdom are often more confident when it comes to their conquests.

'They'll come up to you on the street and ask you your number,' she shared.

A British OnlyFans star has revealed the truth behind Aussie men's sex habits  and the one thing she hates about dating Down Under

Arabella Mia (pictured) has been living in Brisbane for two months and she's already picked up some of the top trends and red flags among locals  and a few will raise some eyebrows

However, when it comes to the bedroom, Aussie men aren't as reserved as they may seem, according to the OnlyFans creator, with one kink arising more than others.

'It's not what you would expect,' she said preemptively.

'They like calling people, "mummy",' she added.

According to the Arabella, Aussie men like a woman who is in control but not necessarily dominant.

As for the differences she sees across Aussie cities, she says Brisbane men are a little bit more 'nerdy' and 'gentlemanly', while Melbourne men are always thinking of 'out of the box' activities to do on dates.

Gold Coast men will always try to work fitness into a first meeting, such as hiking or a gym session, with the occasional beach date on the cards.

Arabella added that she was specifically warned about men from the Gold Coast when it came to dating, but lives by the mantra that you should 'try everything once'.

When it comes to the bedroom, Aussie men aren't as reserved as they may seem, according to the OnlyFans creator, with one kink arising more than others

And then there are Sydney men, who seem to always be surprised when Arabella makes the first move.

'When I was in Sydney and I was on the apps and stuff, I'd say hello and they'd be like, "Whoa, hang on a minute. Are you talking to me first?"'

Despite some initial surprises, there is one thing Arabella praises Aussie men for across the board  their ability to get straight to the point with their intentions.

'They're very forward. I quite like that,' she revealed.

'They'll tell you straight up what they want.'
Psychic Sally has shared her predictions on when she believes Kim Kardashian will pass the bar and finally qualify as a lawyer.

Kim, 45, confirmed she had failed the bar last Friday after originally taking the painstaking exam in July, two months after graduating from a four year California Law Office Study Program (LOSP).

The TV star, who also plays a divorce lawyer in new legal drama All's Fair, is keen to follow in her late father Robert Kardashian's footsteps by qualifying to practice law.

Kim recently admitted she was furious with her psychics for giving her false hope by incorrectly determining she would pass.

'I'm just letting you guys know that all of the f****** psychics we have met with, and that we're obsessed with, are all f****** full of s***', Kim said.

'They all collectively, maybe four them, told me I was gonna pass the bar, so they're all full pathological liars. Don't believe anything they say.'

Despite Kim's foul-mouthed phone tirade, medium Sally Morgan, 74, remains hopeful Kim will pass the bar, specifically in March 2026, and also predicted what the mother-of-four failed on.

Psychic Sally, 74, has shared her predictions on when she believes Kim Kardashian, 45, will pass the bar and finally qualify as a lawyer (Kim pictured at her law school graduation)

Medium Sally Morgan remains hopeful Kim will pass the bar, specifically in March 2026, and also predicted what the mother-of-four failed on

Kim confirmed she had failed the bar last Friday after originally taking the painstaking exam in July, two months after graduating from a four year California Law Office Study Program (LOSP)

She told Daily Mail: 'I have so many feelings about this. I think it's going to come to light that there was a slight mistake on one of the papers that she had to sit.

'I've got a feeling that she sat five papers and I think that the third section of her exam is what she failed on.'

'She very, very nearly passed', Sally insisted. 'She will sit again and I think by March 2026 she will have passed them.'

The medium added: 'They are not saying anything yet because she doesn't want to fall out with the law body or the university, who ever she is sitting the exams with.

'But I think they are already investigating it and she's furious because she had a special tutor as well. In my head I can see she will pass by March 2026.

'I think they were just waiting for her mother's 70th to be over before they start talking about it and she will actually say that she should have passed.'

Addressing Instagram followers last week, Kim confirmed she had failed the bar but remained fully focused on becoming a qualified lawyer.

'Well...I'm not a lawyer yet, I just play a very well-dressed one on TV,' she began, referencing her portrayal of fiesty Allura Grant All's Fair.

Kim recently admitted she was furious with her psychics for giving her false hope by incorrectly determining she would pass

The TV personality plays formidable divorce lawyer Allura Grant in new legal drama All's Fair (pictured on the show)

'Six years into this law journey, and I'm still all in until I pass the bar. No shortcuts, no giving up - just more studying and even more determination.'

The disappointed star also praised those who have 'supported and encouraged me along the way so far.'

She added: 'Falling short isn't failure - it's fuel. I was so close to passing the exam and that only motivates me even more. Let's Go!!!!!!!!!!'

A source close to Kim also told TMZ on the same day that the aspiring lawyer wanted to share how she fared on the bar exam for her fans.

Before the results were made public on Sunday, she reportedly wanted to announce it herself.

The insider explained that Kim wanted to continue being open about her journey to become a lawyer as she has done in the past.

During a recent appearance on The Graham Norton Show, the reality star explained that she had taken the bar exam in July and that she was awaiting her results.

Her late father Robert Kardashian had been a lawyer and notably was the defense attorney for O.J. Simpson amid his 1995 murder trial; the pair seen above in 1995 in Los Angeles

Kim also expressed at the time that if the results showed that she passed, she had plans to be a lawyer in two weeks.

'I took the bar exam in July. I get the results a few days after our [All's Fair] premiere. So in two weeks. So everyone please pray for me. I worked really hard,' Kim said.

'Maybe in 10 years, I think I'll give up being Kim K and be a trial lawyer. That's what I really want.

Kim's late father Robert Kardashian had been a lawyer and notably was the defense attorney for O.J. Simpson amid his 1995 murder trial.
It's a grudge that Kelly Brook was adamant she wouldnt ever let go of. When, as she saw it, Ant and Dec pushed for her to get the sack from Britains Got Talent in 2009, she was so furious she vowed never to speak to them again.

She confided in me at the time that she thought they were snooty and didnt want to work with her because of her glamour modelling.

But 16 years on she is to reunite with them on Im A Celeb, which they host and in which she stars as a contestant when it begins tomorrow night.

It is likely to be a frosty reunion because its the first time she has come face to face with them since she was unceremoniously axed as a judge on the ITV talent show after just six days.

Kelly might be all smiles, but underneath she is a tough, tough woman who doesnt take well to being crossed, a friend of the star tells me.

She doesnt forget. It is going to make for great television.

Kelly Brook is due to reunite with Ant and Dec when she stars on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! which starts Sunday November 16

British TV presenting duo Ant and Dec are returning to present the 25th series of I'm A Celeb

She thinks Ant and Dec sneered at her for being a Page 3 girl, they didnt think she had any talent.

Shes a down-to-earth working-class girl done good and she hates snobby behaviour. Woe betide Ant and Dec.

Shes already been telling journalists she cant wait to see them again.

ITV sources say there is a strategy for the Kelly problem: Rather than ignore it, Ant and Dec are considering making a joke of it  although Kelly, 45, is unlikely to see the funny side.

This isnt the first time Ant and Dec have attempted to clear the air.

In their 2010 autobiography, Dec was candid about the feud, saying he could not understand why Kelly was hired as a fourth judge with Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden and Piers Morgan. Previously, there had been three.

She was axed within a week when the format was deemed too complex. It went back to four judges later, though, with Alesha Dixon and David Walliams joining Simon and Amanda.

Despite this, Kelly insisted Ant and Dec were behind her departure due to an awkward exchange. Dec wrote in their memoir, Ooh! What A Lovely Pair: Kelly looked nervous, so I told her it was going to be great fun and to just relax.

She nodded, then looked at me and said, And what do you do on the show?. I looked at Simon, who was sat next to me, he turned to Kelly and said, Kelly, you have seen the show, havent you? To which she replied, Yeah... well, bits.

I dont want to sound like an egomaniac, but the last person who said, And what do you do? was the Queen.

They also said they were annoyed that they hadnt been consulted about her signing.

Kelly hit back, saying: There was nothing I could do in this country after Britains Got Talent. The people at ITV were telling me that I had upset Ant and Dec and that was it. I would love to have stayed on the show.

From left, the stars of Britain's Got Talent, Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Kelly Brook, Piers Morgan and presenters Ant McPartlin and Dec Donnelly in 2009

I really felt it was working out. Ant and Dec had never been anything but pleasant to my face but, clearly, they didnt want me on the show. Their egos are such that they were saying to themselves, How dare she think she can come on to our show?, and since then theyve been very vocal about their displeasure.

It isnt just Ant and Dec who should watch out in the jungle, but her co-stars, too, because, Kelly, is not known for holding back when shes annoyed.

I should know. In 2015 I spent the afternoon with Kelly at the Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles where she was starring in a sitcom on NBC that was being produced by Ellen DeGeneres.

Called One Big Happy, in which she played a British barmaid, it received much ridicule  especially from the British media.

Kelly was furious. She let rip in an email to me about the apparent sexism of the UK Press for lambasting her performance while fawning over James Corden, who was successfully hosting The Late Late Show at the time. She ranted that his show only got a quarter of her shows viewers.

We arranged to meet. I arrived to find paparazzi outside the five-star hotel in the Hollywood Hills, and was mortified in case she thought Id set it up. When I told her it wasnt me, she said: Yeah, I know. It was me.

Also on her hit list is Britains Got Talent boss Simon Cowell, whod hired her to bring a touch of glamour to his show, and whom Kelly also blames for her unceremonious dumping just days later.

She told me: Hed turn up at 1pm when the judges had been told to get there for 9am. It was a joke, it was totally disrespectful to me, Amanda and Piers.

Kelly might be all smiles, but underneath she is a tough, tough woman who doesnt take well to being crossed, a friend of the star tells me

Hed just rock up whenever he wanted to. It was his party and he did what he wanted. I had never known anything like it before.

Kelly was also keen to stress that Cowell, 66, had approached her about being on the show. She said: Everyone thought I chased Simon, desperate to be on the show, but... he called me the day before and asked if Id do it.

Also on the receiving end of her acid tongue during our interview was Jude Law, who approached us looking scruffy. When he went to kiss her, she said rather loudly: Eugh, he f***ing stinks.

Rugby star Danny Cipriani, whom she dated between 2008 and 2010  and kicked out after he was caught cheating on her, was called every name under the sun.

ITV bosses might also want to watch out for her potty mouth. In our interview we discussed her colourful love life and she asked me: Is there any gossip about me right now? Well, I told her, the word is you may be a lesbian.

Kelly shrieked with laughter and went on to describe, in blush-inducing detail, just how much she loved being, well, heterosexual. I was dumbfounded.

Friends tell me she is going into the jungle to win  which they put down to her background. She grew up on a council estate in Rochester, Kent where her late father Ken, a scaffolder, worked hard to provide for his family.

Tears welled up as she spoke about her dad, who died of cancer in 2007 when she was in Strictly Come Dancing. She said: Dad was a grafter. He taught me that you have to work twice as hard, twice as many hours as everyone else... to be the best.

So, this time, there is no way Ant and Dec will get in the way of her bid to be queen of the jungle.
Turkiye's long-awaited firm deal with the United Kingdom to purchase 20 Eurofighter Typhoon fighters continues to cause controversy due to, in any case, the insane price.

Initially, the British government announced 8 billion $10.7 billion, then BAE System clarified that it's only about 5.4 billion - $7.2 billion. But even this amount raised questions, because $360 million per Eurofighter, even in a comprehensive contract, is too much.

Eurofighter Typhoon / Open-source photo

At the same time, Turkish publication SavunmaSanayiST provides the following explanation for such pricing. In particular, it emphasizes that the price of $10.7 billion announced by the British government is the total benefit that this contract can create in the ecosystem of the UK's defense-industrial complex.

But $7.2 billion is the cost of 20 Eurofighter Typhoon fighters in the latest Tranche 5 version, together with weapons and additional pods.

Meteor / Open-source photo

This primarily concerns Meteor missiles, and there will supposedly be significantly more of them than Greece ordered together with Rafale, and from what's known, the contract included only 36 missiles for 24 French fighters. It also includes other air-to-air missiles (most likely ASRAAM), as well as, according to the publication, one more very important missile.

Defense Express can make a confident assumption that such important armament for the Eurofighter can only mean the Storm Shadow cruise missile. And although Turkiye has its own air-launched cruise missile SOM, it's twice as light as the European cruise missile. The 620 kg SOM has a range of 250-275 km and a 230 kg warhead, versus 550 km and a 450 kg warhead in the 1,300 kg Storm Shadow.

That's why Turkiye's acquisition of this European cruise missile could become a very unpleasant surprise for Greece, which in the 2000s also purchased these missiles in quantities of about 90 units. Moreover, Athens is already not thrilled about the prospect of its neighbor being strengthened with these fighters equipped with long-range Meteor air combat missiles.

In this case, as with Meteor, if the information is confirmed, Athens should be expected to put even more pressure on European countries to block the sale of this armament. Because ultimately, both Meteor and Storm Shadow are missiles from the MBDA conglomerate, which is only partially (37.5%) owned by BAE Systems.

UK Royal Air Force Eurofighter with Storm Shadow / Photo credit: RAF

And Athens has already aggressively warned against selling Meteor to Turkiye and threatened that the Turks could supposedly reverse-engineer the missile to improve their own Gokhan missile. Therefore, the Greeks will definitely react very violently to the threat of seeing Storm Shadow under the wings of Turkish Eurofighters and will put even more pressure on Paris.

Because it's the French who control the sale of MBDA missiles. And Ankara and London will really need to persuade Paris. The French not only have a stake in this association thanks to Airbus, which owns 37.5% of MBDA (and 10.8% of Airbus is directly owned by the French government), but MBDAs headquarters is in a Paris suburb.

At the same time, it's worth noting that there's also another interpretation of the Eurofighter price for Turkiye from another Turkish source. According to an alternative view, of the $7.2 billion for 20 Eurofighter Typhoon fighters, $6.13 billion is allocated for the aircraft themselves, while $1 billion is for armament.
Bindi Irwin and husband Chandler Powell celebrated a huge relationship milestone on Friday.

The mother-of-one posted a very sweet tribute to her love on Instagram as she revealed it was the 12th anniversary of the day they met.

She uploaded two loved-up images of the pair, as Chandler, 29, lifted Bindi, 27, into his arms during their celebrations.

'Twelve years ago I met the man of my dreams. Chandler, my heart is yours. Always and forever,' Bindi captioned the post.

The photos saw the celebrity conservationist dressed in a sparkling strapless black gown dotted with glitter.

Sporting a sleek half-up hairstyle, she and Chandler leaned in close to each other as he held her, wearing his own black button-up.

Bindi Irwin, 27, and husband Chandler Powell, 29, celebrated a huge relationship milestone on Friday

The second picture was slightly more blurry, showing the happy couple laughing as Bindi leaned back in Chandler's arms.

'And my heart is yours. I love you so much,' Chandler penned in the comments.

The matriarch of the family, Terri Irwin, also left a heartfelt message for the pair, writing: 'And they lived happily ever after!'

Bindi and Chandler first met in November 2013 when the former professional wakeboarder visited Australia for a sporting competition.

He took a tour of Australia Zoo with Bindi as his guide, and the lovebirds quickly hit it off and kept in touch.

Bindi tied the knot with the Florida-born wakeboarder in an intimate ceremony at the start of the Covid pandemic on 25 March, 2020.

She told HELLO! magazine it was tough not having family and friends present for their nuptials as they were forced to follow the strict lockdown rules at the time.

Bindi said she would 'love' to have a second ceremony with guests who were unable to attend their official wedding, their daughter Grace Warrior is a bit older.

The mother-of-one posted a very sweet tribute to her love on Instagram as she revealed it was the 12th anniversary of the day they met

The couple welcomed Grace on 25 March, 2021, exactly one year after they exchanged vows at Australia Zoo.

Nowadays, they are temporarily living in the US as Bindi's brother Robert competes on Dancing With The Stars.

Bindi announced the move during an Instagram video in September, telling fans she and her family were relocating to Los Angeles while Robert starred on the show.

'Australia Zoo will always be home, but we are here to support my incredible brother on DWTS,' she said at the time.

Bindi reminded fans of when she won the US version of DWTS 10 years ago, describing it as a 'life-changing experience'.

'Now my little brother is going to be on the show. I can't wait to support him and be in the audience,' she added.
Kim Kardashian put on a sizzling display in an eye-catching look as she visited the Christ the Redeemer statue during her latest trip to Brazil.

The 45-year-old TV personality - who has been promoting her new Hulu series All's Fair despite savage reviews from critics - shared a series of Instagram snaps on Friday as she stopped by the iconic spot in Rio de Janeiro.

The SKIMS founder previously saw the statue over a decade earlier with her now ex-husband Kanye West in 2013.

Kim turned heads for the outing while wearing a hot pink dress with a plunging neckline on the front as well as sheer hooded fabric that rested on top of her head.

The ensemble clung to her figure and the reality star styled her dark locks into a sleek up do.

Her makeup was glammed up for the nighttime excursion and comprised of a layer of mascara to her lashes as well as a light shadow around her eyes.

Kim Kardashian, 45, put on a sizzling display in an eye-catching look as she visited the Christ the Redeemer statue during her latest trip to Brazil

The SKIMS founder turned heads for the outing while wearing a hot pink dress with a plunging neckline on the front as well as sheer hooded fabric that rested on top of her head

A warm blush and contour was added to better accentuate her cheekbones while a nude-colored matte tint was worn on her lips for a finishing touch.

In a few images, the mom-of-four could be seen getting ready inside a spacious hotel room.

As she left her hotel, Kim offered a friendly wave to fans awaiting nearby before she headed to her next destination.

The Kardashians star showed off her stylish look for the evening as she posed for pictures underneath the tall statue after the sun had set.

Purple lights guided visitors and the TV personality held a smile on her face before making her way up an escalator.

Kim also included a throwback snap from when she first visited the iconic statue during a 2013 vacation to Rio de Janeiro with ex Kanye West.

She had been pregnant with her first child North at the time and also donned a striking pink outfit for the occasion.

Lastly, Kim shared a photo of the hot pink dress she wore while it was donned by a model on the runway.

Her makeup was glammed up for the nighttime excursion and comprised of a layer of mascara to her lashes as well as a light shadow around her eyes

In a few images, the mom-of-four could be seen getting ready inside a spacious hotel room

As she left her hotel, Kim offered a friendly wave to fans awaiting nearby before she headed to her next destination

The Kardashians star showed off her stylish look for the evening as she posed for pictures underneath the tall statue after the sun had set

Purple lights guided visitors and the TV personality held a smile on her face before making her way up an escalator

Kim also included a throwback snap from when she first visited the iconic statue during a 2013 vacation to Rio de Janeiro with ex Kanye West

In the caption of the post, the star penned to her 354 million followers: 'Visiting Christ the Redeemer in Brazil.'

Kim recently whisked herself away to Brazil to promote her new Hulu series All's Fair which additionally stars Naomi Watts, Teyana Taylor, Glenn Close, Sarah Paulson and Niecy Nash.

The show has garnered negative reception with the Ryan Murphy show garnering a critics score of 4% on Rotten Tomatoes.

However, some fans have offered differing opinions and labeled the series as 'glamorous and silly escapism.'

Earlier this week on Monday, Kim attended the premiere of All's Fair in Rio de Janeiro while also joined by some of her cast members.

The media personality wowed wearing a silver halter-styled down with large cutouts on the side.

Feathery details were added around her midriff and she also showed off the backless portion of the look.

Kim's dark locks were pulled back into a sleek bun while feathery pieces were also added for a final touch.

Earlier this week on Monday, Kim attended the premiere of All's Fair in Rio de Janeiro while also joined by some of her cast members

It comes only days after the reality star revealed that she did not pass the bar exam - which she had taken back in July.

Over the past weekend, Kim jumped to her Instagram stories to share that she did not pass, but has no intentions of giving up.

'Well...I'm not a lawyer yet, I just play a very well-dressed one on TV,' she began, referencing to her new Hulu series All's Fair.

'Six years into this law journey, and I'm still all in until I pass the bar. No shortcuts, no giving up - just more studying and even more determination.'

Kim then sent gratitude to those who have 'supported and encouraged me along the way so far.'

The mom-of-four concluded her statement with a positive message and stated that she nearly passed the bar exam.

'Falling short isn't failure - it's fuel. I was so close to passing the exam and that only motivates me even more. Let's Go!!!!!!!!!!'

A source close to Kim also told TMZ on the same day that the aspiring lawyer wanted to share how she fared on the bar exam for her fans.

It comes only days after the reality star revealed that she did not pass the bar exam - which she had taken back in July; seen in October in NYC

'Six years into this law journey, and I'm still all in until I pass the bar. No shortcuts, no giving up - just more studying and even more determination,' she wrote

Before the results were made public on Sunday, Kim reportedly wanted to announce it herself.

The insider explained that the social media personality wanted to continue being open about her journey to become a lawyer as she has done in the past.

The source also added that she knew her fans would be interested in knowing how she did.

Late last month during an appearance on The Graham Norton Show, the reality star explained that she had taken the bar exam in July and that she was awaiting her results.

Back in May, the media personality reached a major milestone as she graduated from her law school program following a six year journey.

The star celebrated the big moment by taking part in a backyard ceremony which she gave a glimpse of on social media.

Kim took part in the four-year California Law Office Study Program (LOSP) rather than attending traditional law school.

Back in May, the media personality reached a major milestone as she graduated from her law school program following a six year journey

The star also attended her mom Kris Jenner's 70th birthday over the past weekend in Beverly Hills - which drew in a number of A-list guests such as Justin Bieber, Mariah Carey and Beyonce

Kim's late father Robert Kardashian had been a lawyer and notably was the defense attorney for O.J. Simpson amid his 1995 murder trial.

Days before she revealed the results of her bar exam, the reality star blamed ChatGPT for making her fail past law exams.

Kim also savaged 'pathological liar' psychics in a foul-mouthed phone tirade after being told she would pass her bar exam.

The star has been keeping busy and attended her mom Kris Jenner's 70th birthday over the past weekend in Beverly Hills - which drew in a number of A-list guests such as Justin Bieber, Mariah Carey and Beyonce.
Heidi Klum and her mini-me daughter Leni wowed at the Glamour Women Of The Year Awards in Berlin, Germany on Friday night.

The mother-daughter duo were recently blasted by fans who claimed their previous lingerie shoots were 'inappropriate' and 'weird'.

The duo posed side-by-side as they graced the red carpet at the glamorous Ritz Carlton.

Marking their latest moment together in front of the camera, the pair flashed huge smiles for the camera and playfully air kissed each other, as they cuddled in close and wrapped their arms around each other.

Putting on a very leggy display, Heidi, 52, slipped into a black and gold mini dress, which boasted a halter neck detail.

The figure hugging garment clung to her petite waist to emphasise her impressively slender figure all the way down.

Heidi Klum, 52, and her mini-me daughter Leni, 21, wowed at the Glamour Women Of The Year Awards in Berlin, Germany on Friday night

The mother-daughter duo were recently blasted by fans who claimed their previous lingerie shoots were 'inappropriate' and 'weird'

The German-born supermodel casually threw on a brown faux fur coat over the top, exposing her shoulders.

Meanwhile Lexi showed off her chic sense of style in a black lace dress which was cinched at her tiny waist.

The stunner got into the spirit of things as she pouted down the camera lens for some solo shots, as well as laughing and joking around with her famous mum.

Their appearance comes after online critics slammed their earlier shoots blasting them 'weird' and 'inappropriate'.

However the pair appeared unfazed as they returned to work the camera, looking polished and perfectly coordinated.

Earlier this month the duo posed for lingerie brand Intermissi, showing off their incredible figures.

Heidi had first sparked disapproval from fans when she and Leni posed in 2023 as she rocked a lacy nude bra and matching panties while her offspring wore a fuchsia version.

The pair have previously hit back at backlash from fans, with Heidi telling PEOPLE: 'A lot of people are like, "Oh, I don't know about mom and daughter doing this together".

Marking their latest mother-daughter moment in front of the camera, the pair flashed huge smiles for the camera and playfully air kissed each other, as they cuddled in close and wrapped their arms around each other

Lexi showed off her chic sense of style in a black lace dress which was cinched at her tiny waist as she posed up a storm

Putting on a very leggy display, Heidi slipped into a black a gold mini dress, which clung to her petite waist to emphasise her impressively slender figure all the way down

Lexi ditched the accessories, opting for a heavy palette of makeup instead wearing lashings of mascara and and a dark, glossy lip

The stunner got into the spirit of things as she smouldered and pouted down the camera lens for some solo shots

'But for us? I'm proud of my daughter. She's fine with me like that.'

Heidi also made it clear that body confidence runs in the family, noting that she's always been comfortable in her own skin.

'I've always been very open with my body,' she explained.

'When I'm suntanning in the backyard, I might not have a top on. I'm European my kids don't know me any other way.'

She added that their family doesn't view nudity through a hypersexualized lens.

Just last month the pair posed for another shoot which saw them wear matching cashmere knitwear.

They appeared in a video together as Heidi was dressed in a pale cream jumper while Leni opted for a dark brown shade.

Leni, Heidi's daughter with Italian businessman Flavio Briatore, was adopted by Seal during his marriage to Heidi.

Although Leni was offered modelling gigs throughout her childhood, Heidi held off on allowing her to enter the industry until she felt her daughter was ready.

Leni officially began modelling in 2020.

Heidi's decision to wait until Leni was 'old enough' was rooted in her desire to protect her daughter from the pressures of fame - though clearly, Leni has since caught the modeling bug.
The Beatles' new biopics WILL be filmed at London's iconic Abbey Road as production gets underway despite reports local council had blocked plans.

Earlier this year Sony confirmed the cast for the four Beatles projects following a sea of speculation, with all four films set to be released in April 2028.

Gladiator II hunk Paul Mescal will play Paul McCartney, Harris Dickinson will play John Lennon, Barry Keoghan will star as Ringo Starr and Joseph Quinn will play George Harrison in the films about The Fab Four.

However, despite reports that Westminster council wouldn't allow filming to take place on the iconic crossing, they confirmed to Daily Mail that it is going ahead.

Sam Mendes, who is directing the films, had wanted to recreate the Beatles' 1969 album cover on the crossing.

Westminster Council told Daily Mail that they are in fact, working closely witih production teams to facilitate filming, which will involve closing the road.

Beatles biopics filming WILL take place at iconic Abbey Road as production gets underway despite reports council had blocked plans - (pictured: the Beatles pictured on the crossing)

Gladiator II hunk Paul Mescal will play Paul McCartney, Harris Dickinson will play John Lennon, Barry Keoghan will star as Ringo Starr and Joseph Quinn will play George Harrison in the films

Earlier this month it was revealed the actresses who had been cast to play the Fab Four's wives in the biopics.

White Lotus star Aimee Lou Wood, 31, will play George Harrisons wife Pattie Boyd, while Irish Oscar nominee Saoirse Ronan, 31, has been cast as Linda McCartney, the muse to many of Paul McCartneys songs.

Anna Sawai, 33, who has made a name for herself in the US drama series Shogun, will appear as John Lennons wife Yoko Ono, and British actress Mia McKenna-Bruce, 28, will play Maureen Cox, the wife of Ringo Starr.

Entitled The Beatles: A Four-Film Cinematic Event, the project was announced last year.

The movies will each take the perspective of one member of The Beatles as they evolve from unknowns in Liverpool in the early 1960s to becoming the biggest band in the world and then breaking up in 1970.

Its the first time that surviving Beatles McCartney and Starr, and the families of the late Lennon and Harrison, have given the rights to feature films about them.

Announcing the female foursome, Mendes said: Maureen, Linda, Yoko and Pattie are four fascinating and unique figures in their own right, and Im thrilled that weve managed to persuade four of the most talented women working in film today to join this amazing adventure.

Sam Mendes, who is directing the films, is keen to recreate the Beatles' 1969 album cover on the crossing (pictured in March)
Selena Gomez is revealing how marriage life with husband Benny Blanco is going, nearly two months after saying 'I do.'

The 33-year-old multihyphenate was a guest on Apple Music this week, where she opened up in an interview with Zane Lowe.

Early in the 27-minute episode, the host said, 'Congratulations on finding happiness with someone in your life you get to share your experiences with, and I'm sure it was just a wonderful occasion.

'But doesn't it just get better in the days that follow and the months and the years that will follow?'

A gushing Selena replied, 'I definitely can agree to that. It has been such a dream so far.'

The Only Murders in the Building actress added, 'And I know it'll come with ebbs and flows, but [he's] the most beautiful person I could do that with.'

Selena Gomez is revealing how marriage life with husband Benny Blanco is going, nearly two months after saying 'I do'

The newlywed said about her marriage: 'It has been such a dream so far'

Selena and Benny, 37, tied the knot on September 27 in Santa Barbara.

In late October the music producer took to his Instagram Story to share a photo of him and his wife enjoying a romantic stroll on the beach to commemorate their anniversary.

The loved-up newlyweds held hands as they were captured walking in the sand.

Following the wedding, he took to Instagram to share a selfie with his new bride.

'i married a real life disney princess,' he captioned, collecting over 12 million likes.

Weeks before walking down the aisle the pop star couldn't contain her excitement.

While discussing her wedding on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, she beamed, flashing her megawatt smile when the subject was brought up.

When asked about planning the nuptials, she gushed, 'It's wonderful. I'm very lucky. It's going well. I'm so excited.'

The Mr. and Mrs. previously made a joint appearance on The Tonight Show in March, promoting their album I Said I Love You First.

During the TV spot the former Barney child star revealed she nearly ruined Benny's marriage proposal after he had arranged to get down on one knee during what his then-girlfriend believed was a photo shoot.

In late October Blanco, 37, took to his Instagram Story to share a photo of him and his wife enjoying a romantic stroll on the beach to commemorate their anniversary

Following their wedding weeks ago, the music producer took to Instagram to share a selfie with his new bride

The newlyweds pictured October 18 at the 2025 Academy Museum Gala

But, Selena admitted, she was tired and cranky on her way to the early morning shoot and suggested they reschedule.

When host Jimmy asked if Benny was 'freaking out,' he said, 'Of course I'm freaking out! She was mad! She almost didn't come!'

The lovebirds confirmed their relationship in December 2023 and got engaged a year later.

'Forever starts now,' Selena wrote on social media at the time, showing off her sparkling diamond ring.

The music extraordinaire, who has collaborated with stars like Ed Sheeran and Rihanna, popped the question with a ring worth an estimated $1M.
Demi Moore showcased her ageless complexion as she hit the red carpet at the Landman season two premiere in Berlin on Friday evening.

The iconic actress, 63, looked nothing short of sensational as she slipped into a figure-hugging black dress.

Demi layered the look over a sheer white shirt and black tie, looking effortlessly stylish.

The film star, who plays Cami Miller in the hit Paramount+ show, wore her long raven tresses loose as she let them tumble down her shoulders.

Demi celebrated her 63rd birthday on Tuesday by flashing the flesh in a black lacy look for the show's US premiere on Manhattan's Upper West Side.

Hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos gave Demi's signature raven mane some wave while make-up artist Rokael Lizama got her ready for her close-up at Lincoln Center's Alice Tully Hall.

Demi Moore, 63, showcased her ageless complexion as she hit the red carpet at the Landman season two premiere in Berlin on Friday evening

The iconic actress looked nothing short of sensational as she slipped into a figure-hugging black dress

Hours later, The Substance star appeared genuinely shocked when Not Just Pretty Pictures podcaster Eric Rutherford surprised her with a platter of 13 red-velvet cupcakes topped with lit candles.

Practically everyone inside the Midtown steakhouse Quality Italian sang Demi (born Guynes) happy birthday as she made a wish during the Landman afterparty.

The Brat Packer was most touched by her eldest daughter Rumer Willis arranging a FaceTime call with her two-year-old daughter Louetta Willis, who sang and cutely bantered with her famous grandmother.

Demi - who boasts 15.5M social media followers - captioned her candid car video: 'The sweetest birthday present from my little Lou! Thank you for all of the birthday wishes.'

The New Mexico-born brunette's daughter Scout Willis shared an Instagram slideshow and declared: 'Everyone say happy birthday to D. Thank god I'm not normal, I wouldn't trade you for anything on Earth.'

Demi's youngest daughter Tallulah Willis also posted an Instagram slideshow in honor of her 'beautiful, magnetic mama' and called her 'the world's most divine creature teacher.'

The Gucci brand ambassador welcomed all three children during her 11-year marriage to second husband Bruce Willis, which amicably ended in 2000.

Demi was joined on the black carpet by her castmate Ali Larter, who bared a single arm in a chrome-colored cowl-neck dress selected by stylist Jeanann Williams.

Demi layered the look over a sheer white shirt which she teamed with a black tie looking effortlessly stylish (pictured with co-star Ali Larter)

The stunner, who plays Cami Miller in the hit Paramount+ show, wore her long raven tresses loose and let them tumble down her shoulders

Accentuating her features with glam make-up she completed the look with a pair of silver pendant earrings

Demi (R) and Ari (L) appeared in great spirits as they posed together

They were later joined by co-star Billy Bob Thornton

The Feud actress plays Monty Miller's (Jon Hamm) widow Cami while the 49-year-old Heroes alum plays Tommy Norris' (Billy Bob Thorton) ex-wife Angela in the 10-episode second season of Texan oil drama, which premieres next Sunday.

Unlike the first season, Demi and Larter actually share scenes this time around.

'She's amazing. Such an icon. She's so beautiful,' the L'Oreal Paris paid partner gushed to THR in June.

'She comes in and out, while the rest of us are living down here. So I think there's challenges and bonuses to that. But I have a big scene coming up with her in a couple weeks and I can't wait.

'She's great in this character and she has so much to offer. I'm excited to see what she continues to do.'Also glamming up for the Landman festivities was Sam Elliott, who sported his signature white stache with a blue suit over a black graphic tee.

Moore celebrated her 63rd birthday on Tuesday by flashing flesh in a black lacy look while the show's US premiere on Manhattan's Upper West Side

Moore plays Monty Miller's (Jon Hamm) in the 10-episode second season of Texan oil drama

The 81-year-old Oscar nominee - whose acting career spans five decades - shared a moment on the black carpet with Moore.

The industry event served as a date night for Billy Bob Thornton and his sixth wife, Connie Angland, whom he wed in 2014.

But the 70-year-old Oscar-winning screenwriter was affectionate, as always, with his castmates Ali and Demi.
Nadia Bartel has revealed her baby plans with boyfriend Peter Dugmore, just a few weeks after revealing marriage may not be on the cards for them.

The former AFL WAG, 40, told the recent issue of Stellar they are going to start 'trying' for a baby this year.

The Henne designer, who shares two sons with her ex-husband Jimmy Bartel, revealed she has frozen embryos with the intent to expand her family.

'I want to try and have a family with Pete. We want to really start trying this year. He's my partner and we've got each other's support,' she said.

Nadia went on to commend the Melbourne-based businessman for being 'such a big help' with her sons Aston, who turns 10 next week, and Henley, seven.

'It's comforting to know we've got the embryos there,' she added.

Nadia Bartel, 40, has revealed her baby plans with boyfriend Peter Dugmore, just a few weeks after revealing marriage may not be on the cards for them

The news comes after Nadia revealed to Daily Mail earlier this month what her wedding plans are with Peter.

The Aussie model attended Derby Day in Melbourne, where she exclusively revealed her thoughts on tying the knot with her beau.

'I don't think so,' she shared when asked if there were any wedding plans on the horizon.

'I don't know. I'm not too fussed. We're just really happy.'

She went on to say that, despite being married before, she's never been one to want a 'big dream wedding'.

'It's more important to me being with someone that respects me and cares about me and he [Peter] definitely is the best part of that.'

The pair went on a date after Peter slid into the fashionista's Instagram DMs, with the couple debuting their romance in 2023.

'I don't usually respond to Instagram messages, and I don't know if it was because I was feeling lonely, but I responded,' she previously told her Instagram followers.

The former AFL WAG, 40, told the recent issue of Stellar they are going to start 'trying' for a baby this year. Pictured with her sons Aston, who turns 10 next week, and Henley, seven

'I looked at his profile and we had some mutual friends and he looked like a nice guy. He also didn't have a lot of postsand I liked that,' she added.

'I really enjoyed the chats but I never thought I'd ever see this personit was just nice to chat.

'I was in a good place with my mental health and I didn't want to put myself in a position where I could be hurt again.'

The designer eventually met up with Peter at The Tan, a popular running route in Melbourne, and they have been together ever since.
Rachel Zoe is giving insight into the recent end of her 26-year marriage to Rodger Berman.

The 54-year-old fashion designer  who will join season 15 of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills  discussed her split in a teaser shared at BravoCon on Friday.

In the snippet she opened up to friend Kathy Hilton and said, 'I'm trying to look at [Rodger] as a friend... I'm not there yet.'

She went on to compare her relationship to the couple in the romance drama The Notebook, stating they were 'married 26 years, together for 33.'

'We were together for 18 years before we had kids. I think after we had kids... I think it changes, at the end of the day. I think we've outgrown each other; we became very different people,' Rachel admitted.

The exes are parents to sons Skyler, 14, and Kaius, 11.

Rachel Zoe is giving insight into the recent end of her 26-year marriage to Rodger Berman; pictured Friday in Las Vegas, Nevada, at BravoCon 2025

'I think we've outgrown each other; we became very different people,' Rachel admitted of herself and Berman in a Real Housewives of Beverly Hills teaser shared at BravoCon on Friday; pictured together in 2022

Rachel will star on the forthcoming installment of RHOBH alongside Kyle Richards, Erika Jayne, Sutton Stracke, Bozoma Saint John, Dorit Kemsley and fellow rookie Amanda Frances.

She announced her involvement on the show via Instagram over the summer.

'Here we go again @bravotv !!! I am officially joining #TheRealHousewivesofBeverlyHills and back with my Bravo family. Lets do this! #RHOBH,' she wrote.

The media personality previously starred on her own Bravo reality show, The Rachel Zoe Project, which aired for five seasons from 20082013.

Along with her announcement in June, Rachel shared a video in which she said, 'It's been a while and you've been asking me to come back to television, and I said when the stars align or it makes sense or I have enough to say to share with all of you, and now is the time.

'Really excited to be with all of you again and I hope you are too, so let's have some fun! Mwah!' she added.

Season 15 of the long-running series will premiere on Bravo on December 4, with episodes streaming on Peacock the next day.

Rachel announced her split from Rodger, whom she wed in 1996, on social media in September 2024.

The exes are parents to sons Skyler, 14, and Kaius, 11; pictured in March 2024 in Beverly Hills

Rachel announced her split from Rodger, whom she wed in 1996, on social media in September 2024; pictured in October 2023

Zoe and Berman met in the early '90s while they were students at George Washington University

The former couple met in the early '90s while they were students at George Washington University.

She wrote in the split announcement, 'After 33 years together and 26 years married, Rodger and I have come to the mutual decision to end our marriage.

'We are incredibly proud of the loving family we have created and our countless memories together,' she continued.

'Our number one priority has been and will always be our children. We are committed to coparent our boys and to continue to work together within the many businesses we share. We ask for privacy during this time as we navigate this new chapter.'

She signed off, 'With love and gratitude  Rachel & Rodger.'

The multi-hyphenate filed for divorce in July of this year.
Teresa Giudice shared an unexpected announcement about the state of her long-running feud with Joe and Melissa Gorga on Friday at BravoCon 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The 53-year-old Real Housewives Of New Jersey star  who sported a nearly unrecognizable visage and striking new blond hair  revealed during the Housewife2Housewife panel at Caesars Palace that she has finally put aside her differences with her 51-year-old brother and 46-year-old sister-in-law.

'We have all gotten together. Im really grateful and Im thankful,' she said of the couple, who are also featured on RHONJ, according to People.

Joe even made the rapprochement official at the convention.

While Teresa and her husband Luis Ruelas were signing merchandise, Joe dropped by to show there were no hard feelings.

A clip of the encounter circulating on TikTok shows Joe pulling his sister and brother-in-law in for a cozy three-way hug in front of shocked fans, who rushed to capture the reunion on their phones.

Teresa Giudice, 53, shocked her fans when she announced on Friday at BravoCon 2023 in Las Vegas that she had ended her years-long feud with her brother Joe Gorga and sister-in-law Melissa Gorga; pictured Friday in Las Vegas

'We have all gotten together. Im really grateful and Im thankful,' she said of the couple, who are also featured on RHONJ, according to People; Joe and Melissa pictured in October in NYC

They got an extra treat when Luis returned the affectionate gesture by giving Joe a kiss on the cheek.

Melissa has also been seen at BravoCon with Joe and with other Bravo stars, though she didn't appear to be part of the warm family display.

And during an interview with People at the event, Teresa revealed that she had been the one to reach out to her brother Joe in the first steps to end their feud.

'I reached out to him and at first, we were gonna meet - the four of us,' she explained, referencing to herself and husband Luis as well as brother Joe and his wife Melissa.

'But then I was thinking about it, and I was like, you know, I wanted to talk to my brother first.'

The star added, 'I wanted him to really see me, and I wanted him to feel it from me, and vice versa, I wanted to feel it from him. So I felt like the two of us should meet first.'

Teresa then shared that she first met with her brother one-on-one and then all four came together afterwards.

She later called their reunion 'amazing' and further expressed, 'We talked about certain things, apologized, and that was it, moved forward, yeah, and I'm happy.'

And during an interview with People at the event, Teresa revealed that she had been the one to reach out to her brother Joe in the first steps to end their feud; seen on Friday in Las Vegas

She later called their reunion 'amazing' and further expressed, 'We talked about certain things, apologized, and that was it, moved forward, yeah, and I'm happy; Teresa and Luis pictured on Friday

Though Melissa was at BravoCon and was pictured with Joe, she didn't appear to have dropped by for the group hug; pictured on Friday

Teresa also offered her response to those speculating if the reconciliation is truly authentic.

'Ask my brother, I'm the type that holds grudges. I'm very old school,' she told Us Weekly on Saturday during BravoCon 2025.

'For me to do this, it's real. He said he was waiting for me because he knew how upset I was about things.'

Teresa further said about those questioning the reunion: 'People who say that have a mean heart. I'm just saying, a mean soul. Everybody should want family to be together.

'I want to show America what a real Italian family looks like. My ex's family? They are all together, united. That's what I always wanted.'

The Real Housewives star added that it is 'important' to her 'to show America that we could be united, and I want to show our children that too.'

The feud between Teresa and the Gorgas grew to sweep up their family members, but her oldest daughter Gia Giudice, 24, revealed that she had also welcomed her aunt and uncle back into the fold.

'It feels really good,' she said of the return to warm relations while chatting with People on the red carpet.

Melissa and Joe have feuded for years with Teresa, her ex-husband Joe Giudice and her current husband Luis; pictured on Friday

'For me to do this, it's real. He said he was waiting for me because he knew how upset I was about things,' Teresa expressed; seen on Saturday in Las Vegas

'I'm looking forward to the path of rebuilding and just getting to a better place, which we already are in, so, yeah, it's exciting,' Gia continued. 'I'm really happy about it.'

Teresa's sniping with her brother and sister-in-law extends all the way back to Melissa debut on the Real Housewives Of New Jersey in the show's third season.

Early on, Teresa accused Melissa of only being with Joe for his money, which Melissa denied.

'Joe and I have been married for seven years and have three kids. We went through a time where we couldnt even buy diapers. We had to sell every house we lived in...' she told E! News in 2011. 'Did I go anywhere? Would I ever? No.

'It hurts me that she would even put that out there, to put that in someones head,' Melissa continued. 'And it doesnt even hurt me as bad as it hurts her brother.'

The relations devolved to the point that all four were involved in a brawl in 2013, though Teresa and her then-husband Joe Giudice appeared to make up their RHONJ costars after they were both sentenced to prison time for fraud.

The Real Housewives star added that it is 'important' to her 'to show America that we could be united, and I want to show our children that too'; Teresa and Joe seen on Saturday during BravoCon 2025

The TV personality was also seen with husband Luis during event on Saturday at Caesar's Palace

Teresa paused for a photo as she crossed paths with Monique Samuels and Keiarna Stewart

Things stayed relatively calm after Teresa's husband Joe was deported to Italy after he served his sentence, but she and Melissa had another public falling out in 2022, when Teresa said on Watch What Happens Live that she wasn't going to have Melissa be in her bridal party.

Melissa later claimed she only found out that she had been left out of the wedding party by watching the interview on TV.

Melissa and Joe ended up skipping Teresa's wedding to Luis altogether, and Teresa later said she was 'totally fine with it.'

'Im all about good energy, and whoever wanted to be at my wedding was there,' she said on her Namaste B$tches podcast.
Bella Hadid opened up about suffering from 'medical anxiety' amid her ongoing battle with Lyme disease.

The 29-year-old supermodel - who was first diagnosed with the chronic neurological illness in 2013 - jumped to her Instagram stories on Friday to share two posts while giving insight into her health battle.

The star first reposted a slide from @chronicillnesshumor which read: 'when your chronic illness is chronic illness-ing and someone says "it's always something with you" like... yes... one might say the illness is... chronic.'

Bella also re-shared a separate post from influencer Alexandra Wildeson titled 'The Duality of life with chronic illness.'

Underneath, the star typed out, 'The medical anxiety is soooooo real. Thank you for putting every one of my thoughts and daily situations into one swipe. The truuuuuth! @alexandrawildeson.'

Bella has kept her fans updated with her battle with Lyme disease - which both her mother Yolanda and brother Anwar have also been diagnosed with.

Bella Hadid, 29, opened up about suffering from 'medical anxiety' amid her ongoing battle with Lyme disease; seen in May in London

The supermodel - who was first diagnosed with the chronic neurological illness in 2013 - jumped to her Instagram stories on Friday to share two posts while giving insight into her health battle

The model also recently opened up about her struggles with anxiety last month as she uploaded a post on World Mental Health Day.

'Something i've carried for many years is the weight of anxiety and depression,' she wrote at the time.

'It can sometimes feel all-consuming, paralyzing, and invisible to the outside world, leaving you in tears before starting your day, wondering why your mind feels so heavy when life around you seems so bright.'

Bella added that, 'there is often a deep sense of shame that comes with mental health struggles.

'I sometimes wonder how life has blessed me and how my body and mind are filled with the weight of sadness, depression, and debilitating anxiety on a regular basis.'

The star added that she 'learned that this is not a weakness - it's a part of me.'

She later penned, 'whoever deals with this daily too; I want you to remember that you are not alone. and I love you so much...'

Back in September, Bella uploaded a series of images to Instagram - with some showing her receiving treatment inside a hospital.

The star first reposted a slide from a page called @chronicillnesshumor which read: 'when your chronic illness is chronic illness-ing and someone says "it's always something with you" like... yes... one might say the illness is... chronic'

The model also recently opened up about her struggles with anxiety last month as she uploaded a post on World Mental Health Day; seen in May in Cannes

Back in September, Bella uploaded a series of images to Instagram - with some showing her receiving treatment inside a hospital

'I'm sorry I always go MIA I love you guys,' she wrote in the caption at the time

Some pictures were taken as the model was hooked up to an IV while another was a selfie as she rested in bed with a bag of ice on her forehead.

'I'm sorry I always go MIA I love you guys,' she wrote in the caption at the time.

That same month, her mother Yolanda uploaded a post to give an emotional glimpse at her daughter's battle with Lyme disease.

Bella could be seen in a hospital bed hooked up to IVs while another image was taken as Yolanda gave her daughter a kiss on the cheek.

'The invisible disability of chronic neurological Lyme disease is hard to explain or understand for anyone,' Yolanda penned.

'I try to lead by example on our Lyme journey but my own pain cannot compare to watching my baby suffer.'

She also shared an uplifting message to Bella by adding, 'You are relentless and courageous. No child is suppose to suffer in their body with an incurable chronic disease.

'I admire your bravery and your willingness to keep fighting for health despite the failing protocols and countless setbacks you have faced.'

That same month, her mother Yolanda uploaded a post to give an emotional glimpse at her daughter's battle with Lyme disease

She also shared an uplifting message to Bella by adding, 'You are relentless and courageous. No child is suppose to suffer in their body with an incurable chronic disease'

Yolanda continued, 'There simply aren't words big enough for the darkness, the pain, and the unknown hell you've lived through since your diagnosis in 2013.

'You didn't really live, you learned how to exist inside the jail of your own paralyzed brain.'

She further expressed how 'proud' she is of her daughter while also calling her both a 'survivor' and 'warrior.'

Bella has been open with with her public battle with Lyme disease on social media and back in 2023, the star took a five month break from modeling due to her health issues.

Last month in October, Bella strutted on the runway during the 2025 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.

She donned more than one look for the special event, including one where she donned 50-pound angel wings along with shimmering silver lingerie.

She donned more than one look for the special event, including one where she donned 50-pound angel wings along with shimmering silver lingerie

The model then revealed in the comment section: 'Girl I got my period that morning and my stamina is not up yet after the whole hospital sitch but I tried my best and I LOVEEEE you for this I'm ok I swear'

Following her time on the catwalk, she sparked fan concern over her health - which prompted Bella to offer an explanation.

A TikToker posted a video and said, 'Bella Hadid, what the f*** wrong with you? What we gotta do? Look like she was finna cry the whole show. Bella Hadid who we gotta pull up on???'

The model then revealed in the comment section: 'Girl I got my period that morning and my stamina is not up yet after the whole hospital sitch but I tried my best and I LOVEEEE you for this I'm ok I swear.'

The media personality also added, 'I'm sorry if I let u down. Love you I mean it.'

The star - who is currently dating professional equestrian Adan Banuelos - also recently celebrated her 29th birthday last month on October

Bella previously addressed her appearance at the runway show in a now-deleted post per The Hollywood Reporter.

'Ok we're not going to pretend these wings weren't 50 pounds but HOW BEAUTIFUL,' she had stated.

The star - who is currently dating professional equestrian Adan Banuelos - also recently celebrated her 29th birthday last month on October.

She rung in the special day during an intimate celebration and was joined by close pals such as Hailey Bieber.
The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) recorded 226 combat clashes during the last day. The General Staff of the Armed Forces reported this on Telegram in operational information regarding the Russian invasion as of 08:00 on Saturday.

"The enemy launched two missile strikes on the positions of Ukrainian units and settlements, using 23 missiles, and 52 air strikes, dropping 111 guided bombs. In addition, it carried out 4,239 attacks, 169 of them from multiple rocket launcher systems, and used 4,863 kamikaze drones to destroy them," the General Staff said.
Lily Sheen looked the spitting image of her famous mother in newly-shared modelling snaps.

The daughter of actors Kate Beckinsale and Michael Sheen slipped into an off-shoulder sparkling pink and red mini dress for the stunning photos.

Lily, 26, who has been following into her famous parents' footsteps since she was a little girl, sported black knee-high boots and a quirky red headband ahead of what could be a photoshoot.

The Underworld actress impressively resembled her beautiful mum Kate, 52, who is also known for her age-defying looks.

Born in 1999, Lily has already made a name for herself appearing in Hollywood movies as Everybody's Fine in 2009, as well as Underworld: Evolution and Click both in 2006.

Her mother Kate has previously spoken about the shocking resemblance she and her daughter share back in 2023, with the Pearl Harbour star admitting: 'I do see it.

Lily Sheen, 26, the daughter of Kate Beckinsale and Michael Sheen, looked the spitting image of her famous Hollywood star mum in newly-shared modelling snaps

The Underworld actress impressively resembled her beautiful mum Kate, 52 (pictured) who is also known for her age-defying looks

'Yeah, I do. Sometimes I'll send her a text saying 'get your own face! She's like a better version. She's got something that I don't.

'She looks like this gorgeous Disney animal  she's got these giant eye

'I think probably [Michael] helped with that a bit  but she's very much herself.'

Lily was born four years after Kate and Michael, 56, met on a touring production of The Seagull.

The pair split in 2002 after seven years together when their daughter was just three years old, but Kate has made it clear in the past they are still on great terms.

She said previously: 'I love Michael, Michael's fantastic. It shouldn't necessarily have gone on and on forever with us, but he is one of my absolutely favorite people ever.'

Their split was made all the more complicated as they had only recently settled in the US with Lily and Michael was forced to return to Britain while Kate remained overseas.

Lily has already made a name for herself appearing in Hollywood movies as The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent in 2022, Everybody's Fine in 2009, as well as Underworld: Evolution and Click - both in 2006 (pictured at Bugonia premiere this month)

Lily was born four years after Kate and Michael, 56, met on a touring production of The Seagull but split in 2002 after 7 years together (pictured in March 2002 at the Vanity Fair Oscars party)

Speaking about the physical resemblance to her daughter back in 2023, Kate said: 'I do see it. Yeah, I do. Sometimes I'll send her a text saying, "Get your own face!"

Kate has starred in huge movies including Pearl Harbor and Underworld while Michael is an actor on both stage and screen.

Lily has followed in her mother and father's footsteps by pursuing an acting career and more recently appeared on The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent in 2022, starring Nicholas Cage and Pedro Pascal.

Speaking about his split from Kate back in 2020 on the podcast Changes With Annie Macmanus, Michael said: 'Going through that experience of a relationship breaking down and having a young child, and then because of my daughter and her mum living in another country, having to make a life in a new place whilst going through that whole experience which is difficult enough.

'I had no work visa to stay in America, so every time I left, I had to go back to Britain. I never knew if I would be allowed to come back in again.

'So, I ended up having to get work in Britain because I wasn't really getting any work in America. It really made me question certain things about myself.'

The actor, whose exes include Rachel McAdams and Sarah Silverman, became a dad once again in 2019 after welcoming daughter Lyra with partner Anna Lundberg, 30.

Kate later married American film director Len Wiseman, but they separated after 11 years.

Michael and Kate are still close friends, and she has previously said of him: 'I really love him and like him and we make each other roar with laughter.'

The exes have even popped up on each other's social media feeds in recent years, as they spend time with their daughter.
Tom Sandoval has revealed he and his girlfriend Victoria Lee Robinson are on the verge of moving in together, nearly two years into their relationship.

The news comes two years after it emerged he cheated on his then-girlfriend of nine years Ariana Madix with their Vanderpump Rules co-star Raquel Leviss.

'Scandoval' erupted in March 2023 and turned him into a public hate figure, but his love life recovered and in January 2024 he went public with Robinson, a model who once had a brief fling with Leonardo DiCaprio.

This week, during an appearance at BravoCon in Las Vegas, he announced: 'I think we found a place together. She's at her own place. I think we found a place.'

When the Daily Mail asked if that meant the ink was not dry on the lease just yet, the reality star replied: I think that's happening soon.

He remarked that he had been a 'hermit' lately, saying: 'We really enjoyed just having our time together and growing in our relationship.'

Tom Sandoval has revealed he and his girlfriend Victoria Lee Robinson are on the verge of moving in together; they are pictured at BravoCon this Friday

Shedding light on his bond with her family, he added: I'm really excited because her mom and her stepdad are coming out here. BravoCon. They're getting here.'

Bravo announced in November 2024 that Vanderpump Rules was being rebooted with a completely new cast, which meant Sandoval was off the series.

Although he has kept his relationship with Robinson relatively private, he gushed about her on Instagram in September while he was away from her on tour with his band Tom Sandoval and the Most Extras.

Posting a throwback selfie of the pair of them together, Sandoval wrote: 'Miss you so much BehbayUr in my heart with every showcant wait to see you soon.'

He also shared a video of himself onstage during a concert, telling the camera: 'Behbay, I love you so much,' then asking the audience to 'say hi to Victoria.'

Rachel alleged further that Ariana 'distributed, disseminated, shared, and publicized the illicit videos intentionally' after she discovered them on Tom's phone.

Her complaint, obtained by DailyMail.com, contended: '"Scandoval" captured the publics attention in a massive way, went completely viral, and injected new life into Vanderpump Rules.

When 'Scandoval' exploded, Madix became a lightning rod for public sympathy while Sandoval and Leviss were heaped with opprobrium.

The news comes two years after it emerged he cheated on his then-girlfriend of nine years Ariana Madix (center) with their Vanderpump Rules co-star Raquel Leviss (right)

Although he has kept his relationship with Robinson relatively private, he gushed about her on Instagram in September while he was away from her on tour with his band

Leviss was subjected to a deluge of backlash so fierce that she quit Vanderpump Rules and retreated to a mental health facility for two months.

She returned to the public eye that summer, and in February 2024 she sued Sandoval and Madix for 'revenge porn, eavesdropping and invasion of privacy,' igniting a long-running legal battle that remains ongoing.

Madix accused Sandoval of 'secretly recording their private communications,' as well as 'capturing sexually explicit footage' of her 'without her knowledge or consent.'

She alleged further that Madix 'distributed, disseminated, shared, and publicized the illicit videos intentionally' after discovering them on Sandoval's phone.
Elizabeth Franz, the Tony-winning actress best known for her role in the 1999 Broadway revival of Death of a Salesman, has died at 84.

Franz passed away at her home in Woodbury, Connecticut, after a battle with cancer, her husband, screenwriter Christopher Pelham, told The New York Times.

A powerhouse on stage, Franz earned Tony nominations in 1983 and 2002 for her standout roles as Kate Jerome (Matthew Brodericks mom) in Neil Simons Brighton Beach Memoirs and the youngest of four sisters in the Mornings at Seven revival, sharing the stage with Piper Laurie, Frances Sternhagen, and Estelle Parsons.

She also won an Obie Award in 1980 for her performance as the strict nun in Christopher Durangs Sister Mary Ignatius Explains It All for You.

Franzs career extended to television, with memorable appearances in Roseanne, Gilmore Girls, Law & Order, Cold Case, Dear John, and Judging Amy.

Born and raised in Akron, Ohio, Elizabeth Jean Frankovitch moved to New York City to chase her acting dreams.

Elizabeth Franz, the Tony-winning actress best known for her role in the 1999 Broadway revival of Death of a Salesman, has died at 84

It was her portrayal of Linda Loman in the 50th-anniversary Broadway production of Arthur Millers Death of a Salesman in 1999 that truly cemented her legacy  a role that won her the Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play.

Her dadJ oseph worked in a tire factory, and her mom Harriet, a part-time waitress, battled mental illness and would disappear for months at a time.

'I remember holding onto my father and saying, Shell come back,' Franz told The Times in 1999.

As she recalled in a 2004 interview with Whats On Stage, she quickly found her place in New York City, making a mark both on Broadway and beyond.

'Our neighbor had friends there, way up in the Bronx, and I stayed with them for my first year, and then I got digs with four others,' Franz explained.

She also shared, 'I trained at the same place and at the same time as M Emmet Walsh, with whom I am reunited in this production: the American Academy of Dramatic Art in New York, from 1961 to 1962.

'After that, we both went to summer stock in Dorset, Vermont, and we did a play a week for 20 weeks.'

It was her portrayal of Linda Loman in the 50th-anniversary Broadway production of Arthur Millers Death of a Salesman in 1999 that truly cemented her legacy  a role that won her the Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play.

Franz had first brought Linda to life at Chicagos Goodman Theater before taking the character to Broadway in February 1999.

Her personal life included a first marriage to character actor Edward Binns, who died in 1990

Born and raised in Akron, Ohio , Elizabeth Jean Frankovitch moved to New York City to chase her acting dreams

She appeared on daytime soaps like As the World Turns and Another World, and had memorable turns on prime-time favorites including Roseanne, The Equalizer, Sisters, and Gilmore Girls (pictured)

Miller himself, the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, praised her performance, saying she 'has discovered in the role the basic underlying powerful protectiveness, which comes out as fury, and that in the past, in every performance I know of, was simply washed out.'

Franz brought the Linda Loman character back to life in a 2000 TV adaptation of Death of a Salesman, earning an Emmy nomination for her performance.

Franzs career extended far beyond the stage.

She appeared on daytime soaps like As the World Turns and Another World, and had memorable turns on prime-time favorites including Roseanne, The Equalizer, Sisters, and Gilmore Girls.

On the big screen, she appeared in the 1995 Sabrina remake with Harrison Ford and Greg Kinnear.

Her personal life included a first marriage to character actor Edward Binns, who died in 1990.

The two had shared the stage multiple times, portraying Mary and James Tyrone Jr. in Eugene ONeills Long Days Journey Into Night at the Indiana Repertory Theater in 1975, and again in Millers A View From the Bridge at the Berkshire Theater Festival in 1981.

Franz is survived by her husband Pelham and her brother, Joe.
Timothee Chalamet looked unfazed and all smiles as he stepped out with a group of friends in Hollywood on Friday, days after calling it quits with Kylie Jenner.

The actor, 29, and the makeup mogul, 28  who shares two children with rapper Travis Scott  first sparked headlines when their unlikely romance began in April 2023 after meeting at Paris Fashion Week. And for months, rumors of an on-again, off-again relationship have swirled around the pair.

On Tuesday, the Daily Mail reported it was officially 'trouble in paradise' for the Dune star and the Kylie Cosmetics billionaire.

Chalamet 'broke up with Kylie,' one source claimed, adding, 'this has happened before  but she talked him into getting back together. She is crazy about him so that could well happen again.'

But if a reunion is brewing, Chalamet certainly didnt show it.

The star flashed a carefree grin while leaving a Hollywood hot spot with his buddies, looking like he didnt have a worry in the world.

Timothee Chalamet looked unfazed as he stepped out with a group of friends in Hollywood on Friday, days after calling it quits with Kylie Jenner

The star flashed a carefree grin while leaving a Hollywood hot spot with his buddies, looking like he didnt have a worry in the world

A second source told the Daily Mail, 'There is trouble in paradise, but they aren't completely over.'

They added, 'He is filming quite a bit, and she feels that she has to chase him. She is putting in the work more than him.'

The timing coincides with Chalamets new Vogue cover interview, which many fans interpreted as him taking a subtle swipe at Jenner.

The magazine noted that the actor 'will not talk about his relationship,' and quoted him saying, 'I dont say that with any fear, I just dont have anything to say.'

Despite not wanting to talk about his romance, the Vogue interviewer added that Chalamet 'didn't mind at all acknowledging the new stage of his life that he is entering into.'

He also mentioned that his sister recently welcomed a baby and his Dune co-star Zendaya is newly engaged to Tom Holland, hinting that fatherhood is something hes now thinking about: 'That could be on the radar.'

Jenner, meanwhile, kept things equally tight-lipped in her own 2024 British Vogue profile, telling the outlet, 'Privacy is so important to me in life.'

But according to Radar, the makeup mogul isnt thrilled about Chalamets reluctance to publicly acknowledge their romance.

On Tuesday, the Daily Mail reported it was officially 'trouble in paradise' for the Dune star and the Kylie Cosmetics billionaire

Chalamet 'broke up with Kylie,' one source claimed, adding, 'this has happened before  but she talked him into getting back together. She is crazy about him so that could well happen again' (pictured May)

Insiders told the outlet that the Vogue interview opened up an already sore spot  Jenner reportedly feels shes doing more emotional lifting than he is.

A friend told Radar that Jenner believed they were ready to go more public and was blindsided when he brushed off the subject so lightly.

'Kylie was really upset by how casually Timothee dismissed the question. She honestly believed they were past the point of hiding things and that he'd want to celebrate their relationship, not act like it doesn't exist,' the friend said.

Though shes been 'shocked and heartbroken,' sources say shes trying to keep things upbeat for fans: 'She's raging, shocked and heartbroken at the same time, but, as usual, is trying to put a brave face on things by keeping posting "happy" social media snaps.'

Their packed calendars havent helped either.

One insider familiar with the situation said, 'It's really strained things,' adding that Jenner has been the one 'reaching out, calling, visiting  but she's beginning to feel like she's putting in all the effort'.

That imbalance is starting to take its toll.

'She's traveled everywhere to support Timothee, but he rarely returns the favor. It's starting to really bother her,' the source said.

The timing coincides with Chalamets new Vogue cover interview, which many fans interpreted as him taking a subtle swipe at Jenner (pictured March)

Industry insiders, however, say Chalamet simply isnt the type to put his relationships front and center.

'He's never been the kind of person to make his relationships part of the spotlight,' one told Radar.

In more than two and a half years together, hes never popped up on The Kardashians, attended the Met Gala on her arm, or posted anything public about her not even a birthday shoutout.

The dynamic has fans buzzing and even relationship experts are weighing in.

Trauma counselor Audrey Hope cautioned, 'Relationships get ugly when one party loves you more, wants more than the other.'

She added, 'The fact that Kylie Jenner is at all Timothee's events and he does not reciprocate in the same way is a big deal. It shows that something is afoot in paradise.'
Escape To The Chateau's Dick and Angel Strawbridge celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary with a loved-up Instagram post Friday.

Dick, 66, and Angel, 47, shared a slew of snaps to mark the occasion ahead of their TV return after quitting their Channel 4 show over bullying allegations.

The date also marked their meeting exactly five years before their wedding, as they posted sweet throwback photos of themselves with kids Arthur, 12, and Dorothy, 11, through the years.

They penned: 'A huge hello to you on this Fabulous Friday and thank you for all the incredible messages we received yesterday... we were completely blown away!'

'We spent a glorious day wandering around Rennes, reminiscing about our wedding, chatting about the children, family, friends, and all the beautiful chaos that led up to the big day. We laughed, we cried (happy tears, of course!), and felt so blessed'.

The couple continued: 'Its hard to believe that 15 years ago today, we sat across a table and instantly fell in love (see the photo of that moment with our friend Will being the gooseberry!)'.

Escape To The Chateau's Dick and Angel Strawbridge celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary with a loved-up Instagram post Friday

Dick, 66, and Angel, 47, shared snaps to mark the occasion ahead of their TV return after quitting their show over bullying allegations (pictured with kids Arthur, 12, and Dorothy, 11)

The couple's popular Channel 4 show aired 50 episodes over nine seasons, before wrapping up in 2022 after it was dramatically axed due to allegations of behind-the-scenes bust-ups

'From that moment on, weve been inseparable and what an adventure its been. Last night, we wrapped up the day with dinner at Cafe Grandmas, raising a simple toast: To the best 15 years of our lives."'

They added: To all of you whove shared this journey with us, thank you for the love, support, and memories along the way. Heres to love, laughter, and the next chapter! Have a great weekend! Dick & Angel Xxx'.

The couple's popular Channel 4 show aired 50 episodes over nine seasons, before wrapping up in 2022 after it was dramatically axed due to allegations of behind-the-scenes bust-ups.

Channel 4 said in a statement at the time: 'Following a review, we have taken the decision not to work with Dick and Angel on any new productions in the future.'

The couple announced on Instagram this month that they were in the midst of filming series 10 of Escape To The Chateau, with Daily Mail first sharing plans of their TV return last month.

The couple said: 'We are delighted to announce that we are officially back in production for Escape to the Chateau, Series 10! It's been wonderful welcoming back our Escape filming family - the unsung heroes behind the cameras.'

The duo have revealed that the new series has given them a chance to work with a crew member they previously collaborated with in 2021.

They wrote in the heartwarming Instagram post, which included a before picture showing just how small Arthur and Dorothy were last season: 'What a pleasure to have a surprise visit from our Olga... part of our 2021 Escape to the Chateau filming crew!

The date also marked their meeting exactly five years before their wedding

They posted sweet throwback photos of themselves with kids Arthur, 12, and Dorothy, 11., through the years

One snap showed the couple receiving their key to their French Chateau for the very first time

Another showed daughter Dorothy as a small baby while enjoying a train ride

They penned: 'A huge hello to you on this Fabulous Friday and thank you for all the incredible messages we received yesterday... we were completely blown away!'

'We have not seen Olga in years...but our last words were..."If you are ever in the area..." Look at the difference a few years make! Have a lovely evening. Xxx'

Fans of the popular show were quick to gush over the sweet comparison pictures, writing: 'Fantastic Family and TV Story.'

'I can't wait for the show to start back up.';

'Those children are growing by the day! What a life you have all had. Thank you for sharing.'

Opening up about what fans can expect from the new instalment, Dick and Angel said it would revolve more around their parenting journey and be less focused on renovations.

They said: 'Since we first fell in love with the Chateau in 2014, it has taken us on the journey of a lifetime. In 2022, we made the important decision to take a break from filming and concluded Series 9 with the most incredible and magical celebration we could have ever imagined.'

Dick and Angel continued: 'Now, as a family, we've stepped into a new era.

'With Arthur and Dorothy happily settled into college, Series 10 brings more change and growth than the Chateau has ever seen.

'We promised that when the time was right for our family, we'd invite the cameras back in to give you an update - and maybe even a Christmas Special... and that time is now!

Earlier this week Dick and Angel enjoyed a heartwarming reunion with one of their longtime crew members (third left), as they prepare to make a return to TV

'Thank you for being part of our story - we can't wait to share this next magical chapter with you.'

Hosts Dick and Angel were dropped by Channel 4 three years ago, after being engulfed in the bullying scandal.

It was revealed in May 2023 that Channel 4 had cut ties with them following an independent investigation into their conduct.

The TV channel confirmed they would no longer work with the pair on any new productions 'following a review' after they were branded 'spiky and volatile'.

A leaked recording revealed Angel branding a producer a 'F***ed up little c**t'.

In June, she spoke out for the first time defending herself over the foul-mouthed rant as she explained she fell into a pre-laid trap.

The TV star admitted that while she wishes the incident hadn't happened, she will not apologise for what she did.

Speaking on Elizabeth Day's podcast How To Fail, Angel confessed in that moment she saw red: 'I was the one in the wrong for losing my temper, but do you know what, I will not apologise - he was so disrespectful in our house, he was so upsetting to me, my family, and I stand by what I did.

'If I was to apologise and say "I'm sorry for using bad language and chucking you out," it would just be disingenuous to me.'

She added: 'Would I like to erase that? Yeah, I'd love to. But I would also like to erase what he was doing, because my rage just didn't pop out of nowhere.

'It grew over time and it was provoked and therefore I'm not ashamed of what happened in the end, I just wish it hadn't happened.'
A beloved steakhouse that once helped define the American dining boom is mounting an unlikely comeback  decades after its glory days burned into the memories of millions.

Sizzler, the budget-friendly chain famous for its salad bar, sizzling platters and golden cheese toast, was once everywhere.

In its heyday, the brand operated more than 770 restaurants nationwide, making it one of the largest casual-dining chains in America  as recognizable as Pizza Hut, Red Lobster or Shoneys.

Born in 1958 in Culver City, California, Sizzler was the creation of Del and Helen Johnson, who opened a simple steakhouse with one irresistible idea: offer middle-class families a taste of steakhouse luxury at fast-food prices. It worked  spectacularly.

By the 1970s and 80s, Sizzler was a weekend ritual for suburban families from coast to coast. The all-you-can-eat salad bar was a phenomenon. The cheese toast became a cult item.

And the restaurants  with their wood-paneled booths, Tiffany-style lamps and soft-serve ice cream machines  became the backdrop to countless childhood birthday parties, post-Little League dinners and Friday-night treats.

For a generation of Americans, Sizzler was eating out.But like many giants of that era, the chain crashed hard in the 1990s.

Fast expansion, shifting tastes, and competition from Applebees and Outback steakhouses pushed the brand into decline. Sizzler filed for bankruptcy twice, shuttering hundreds of locations.

Sizzler serves steak to customers in multiple states  including California, Nevada, New Mexico, Idaho, Utah, and Oregon

Sizzler is focusing on revamping its locations and stepping up its marketing game

Sizzler was extremely popular in the 1970s and 1980s

By the 2010s, just 74 US restaurants remained  mostly clustered on the West Coast in California, Nevada, New Mexico, Idaho, Utah, and Oregon.  a tiny footprint compared with its once-mighty empire.

Now, the iconic chain is quietly plotting a second act.

Sizzler is in the process of revamping its stores and, according to chief growth officer Robert Clark, the hard work is paying off. Updated stores are seeing sales rise roughly 47 percent.

The redesign began in 2023 and includes classic Sizzler staples such as the all-you-can-eat salad bar. Updated dining rooms feature tile flooring, wood accents, new paint, and a cozy fireplace.

The goal, Clark said, is to bring Sizzler into the present without erasing its past.

'Our current leadership is much more focused on "hey, lets take the best of Sizzler and lets make it even better",' Clark  who has been with the company for 41 years  told QSR Magazine.

'We feel like we have a really great brand here,' he said. 'I think what were trying to do with the remodel is really stay relevant and have facilities and assets that meet our reputation.

'Remodeling is probably the single biggest driver of guests in the restaurant. Its the most important thing.'

Early advert for Sizzler, thought to be from the 1960s. Sizzler was founded in 1958 in Culver City, California by Del and Helen Johnson

The founders opened the simple steakhouse with one irresistible idea: offer middle-class families a taste of steakhouse luxury at fast-food prices (pictured: customers at a Sizzler's back in the company's heyday)

Now, Sizzler is plotting its rise back to the top of the American dining scene

While Sizzler currently operates exclusively on the West Coast and in Puerto Rico, there is no word on whether the chain plans to expand (pictured: Sizzler's steak and lobster dish)

Updated Sizzler dining rooms feature tile flooring, wood accents, new paint, and a cozy fireplace

One of Sizzler's most iconic dishes is the cheese toast, which comes free with every meal

Marketing vice president Sasha Shennikov agreed: Everything we did was digging into what made Sizzler great in the first place (pictured: vintage Sizzler's posters and photos)

Sizzler is known for its iconic salad bar, affordable options, and famous cheese toast dish

The establishment began to struggle in the 1990s, but is now making an impressive comeback

Sizzler Restaurants Chief Growth Officer Robert Clark

Marketing vice president Sasha Shennikov agreed: Everything we did was digging into what made Sizzler great in the first place.

'Why we have some restaurants that have stood the test of time through different rebirths; why people keep coming back.'

Sizzler's original concept revolved around giving customers the feel of a full-service restaurant at a price slightly more than a fast food chain.

The chain first filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 1996 and closed over 130 restaurants. It then filed a second time in 2020, citing the impact of the pandemic.

Sizzler is not the only restaurant chain having a resurgence.

Chilis  the 49-year-old casual dining giant famous for baby back ribs and Tex-Mex comfort food  has pulled off what some analysts are calling one of the greatest restaurant turnarounds in modern history.

Sales at restaurants open at least a year jumped 31 percent  Chilis third straight quarter of double-digit growth.
Working at Sonder's hotels was apparently not so suite.

A former hotel employee has come forward with explosive claims about the company that abruptly folded last weekend and kicked out all its guests, leaving them stranded.

He described the company's operations as 'a total disaster' and saying chaos behind the scenes made it the worst job he's ever had.

The revelations come amid mounting backlash against the short-term-rental and boutique hotel chain after guests across the world were forced to leave their rooms mid-stay when the companys partnership with Marriott collapsed.

Speaking exclusively to The Daily Mail, Ryan Lundgren  who worked at the Arcadian Hotel in Brookline, Massachusetts  said the company was 'completely unprepared to run a hotel.'

'We had horrible reviews. There was a fire at the hotel, daily HVAC problems, and even a break-in because of a security flaw with the windows,' Lundgren said.

Lundgren said Sonder leased the 200-room Arcadian in 2023 as part of an aggressive expansion  but quickly descended into operational mayhem.

Despite presenting itself as a tech-savvy disruptor, Sonder allegedly had no centralized management system at their Brookline hotel: 'We used multiple disconnected tools, and at the front desk I literally checked guests in and out using a Google Sheet.'

The lack of systems led to serious safety and service issues. 'We'd accidentally put guests in rooms that were already occupied,' he said. 'Sometimes we had people staying in the hotel we didn't even know were there.'

Ryan Lundgren (pictured) worked at the Arcadian Hotel in Brookline, Massachusetts

Sonder signed a licensing deal with Marriott International and rebranded as Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy. Marriott and Sonder guests were abruptly ordered to vacate, some mid-stay, as staff learned they had lost their jobs the same day

There was a fire at the hotel, daily HVAC problems, and even a break-in because of a security flaw with the windows (pictured: a HVAC leak at the Arcadian Hotel)

Sonder's attempts to apply an Airbnb-style model to a full-service hotel backfired spectacularly.

Management allegedly claimed it 'took too long for housekeepers to make bunk beds,' so they simply stopped offering the service.

Lundgren described the Brookline property as a nightmare of maintenance failures and safety hazards.

Some rooms reportedly had windows that opened onto interior hallways and could be easily unlatched. 'A guest came down at 7am crying, saying someone had tried to get into her room  twice,' Lundgren recalled.

In another incident, a plumbing explosion flooded a wing of the hotel with 'ankle-deep water.'

According to Lundgren, almost every service was outsourced, from parking to maintenance, creating confusion and finger-pointing whenever something went wrong.

Front-desk staff often couldn't tell whether guests' reservations were paid or even valid. 'We'd have people show up for events, like a Grateful Dead concert, and we couldn't find their bookings. The lobby would be full of angry guests screaming at us.'

Lundgren believes Sonder's problems stem from rapid overexpansion and poor leadership.

Pictured: the Arcadian Hotel in Brookline, Massachusetts

There was a fire at the Arcadian Hotel, which caused areas to be shut down with signage put up

An image of a slack group chat of Arcadian Hotel employees show how chaotic the business was

Sonder, which went public in 2022 amid hype as a 'tech unicorn,' has since faced plunging stock prices and repeated layoffs.

Within months, the Arcadian's management team had completely turned over. 'Everyone quit,' he said. 'It was so stressful I almost had a breakdown. I finally left with no other job lined up  I'd rather be unemployed than stay there.'

Lundgren said the dysfunction wasn't unique to Boston. Sonder employees brought in from other cities, including New Orleans and New York, allegedly described similar chaos.

Online reviews from that period echo those complaints, with guests citing lost reservations, broken amenities and poor service.

The Brookline hotel has since been leased back to Highgate Hotels, its former operator.

Reflecting on his time there, he added: 'It was one of the worst jobs I ever had. The way they treated staff and guests was appalling. Honestly, it was total chaos.'

The Daily Mail reached out to Sonder for comment.

Hotel guests across the world were kicked out of their rooms mid-stay earlier this week after Marriott's partner Sonder suddenly collapsed into bankruptcy.

There were constant problems at Arcadian Hotel, like the ones being discussed in this group chat

A guest is seen abruptly leaving the Sonder hotel she was staying at in Philadelphia with her luggage in tow

Sonder was forced to wind down operations immediately and initiate a Chapter 7 liquidation after Marriott terminated its licensing agreement (pictured: a Sonder hotel in London)

The abrupt shutdown left travelers stranded from Boston to Dubai, with some returning to find their belongings stuffed into plastic bags or dumped in hallways.

Sonder, once valued at over $1billion and hailed as a rival to Airbnb, filed for Chapter 7 liquidation on Monday after Marriott International terminated its licensing deal  forcing the company to wind down operations immediately.

The collapse came less than a year after Sonder  which offered short-term apartment-style rentals and boutique hotels  rebranded as Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy under a 2024 partnership that allowed it to list rooms on Marriott's website.

But the two companies reportedly struggled to integrate booking systems, leading to what executives called a 'sharp decline in revenue.'

'We are devastated to reach a point where liquidation is the only viable path forward,' said interim CEO Janice Sears.

Guests were blindsided on Sunday when Marriott and Sonder ordered them to vacate immediately  some halfway through their stays.
Hurricane season may be winding down, but Tampas housing market is getting battered by its own perfect storm.

New foreclosure data shows the Florida city now has the highest foreclosure rate of any major US metro.

One in every 1,373 homes received a filing - the first step in the process, when a lender warns a borrower they're in default - in October, far worse than any other city with a population above one million.

Foreclosures in general are up in America. In October alone, there were 36,766 national foreclosure filings. That's up 19 percent from a year ago.

Tampas spike is particularly alarming. The city had 1,087 total foreclosure filings in October. That is significantly more than the 366 in October 2024.

Analysts at ATTOM say Tampa's increase is partly explained by the addition of backlogged records from Hillsborough County, but the city's foreclosure numbers have been high in recent months as well.

And foreclosures are only one piece of the city's deepening housing slump.

Local real estate agent Jeff Lichtenstein of Echo Fine Properties told the Daily Mail that Tampa's troubles come down to four main issues.

Tampa (pictured) posted the highest foreclosure rate in October 2025 of all major metro areas in the United States

Tampa had 1,087 foreclosure filings in October - significantly more than the 366 the city had in October 2024 (Pictured: a Tampa suburb)

Pictured: Florida realtor Jeff Lichtenstein

The first is hurricane damage in nearby areas on the coast, which has made buyers far more cautious about purchasing in neighborhoods viewed as vulnerable. Even if a particular suburb wasnt hit, he said the fear lingers.

Secondly, there are less Canadians moving to America in general, a major shift that he said has cut into one of Tampas most reliable sources of demand.

Third, condo assessments have exploded since the Surfside tragedy - and thats having a huge impact.

After the deadly 2021 collapse of a 12-story building in Surfside, Florida introduced strict new safety rules requiring buildings to undergo expensive structural inspections and repairs. Many condo owners are now facing massive special assessments of tens of thousands of dollars.

Experts have said that has spooked buyers across the state, especially in older or high-rise buildings, of which Tampa has many. Deals are falling apart because buyers dont want to inherit surprise bills or uncertain future costs.

Finally, Lichtenstein said Tampa simply isnt as high in demand as warmer areas in the south of Florida. Buyers chasing the 'Florida sunshine' increasingly favor Miami, Naples and Fort Myers, which all see smaller seasonal dips in temperature.

Aside from his 'big four' reasons, Lichtenstein added that tariffs have driven up the cost of materials and renovations, leaving consumers with less money to spend on homes, and making new construction pricier across the region.

For months now, Tampa has been in buyer's market territory.

Aside from foreclosures, Tampa's housing market has seen plenty of other struggles recently (Pictured: aerial view of the Tampa Bay)

The Tampa area is simply not as high in demand as areas in Southern Florida because it's colder (Pictured: a Florida neighborhood)

A buyer's market happens when there are more homes for sale than people willing to buy them. That gives buyers all the power: They can haggle down prices, demand repairs or incentives, and take their time before making an offer.

While that might sound like good news for anyone house-hunting, a strong buyer's market can quickly turn dangerous for the wider economy.

Whether an area is a buyer's or a seller's market is measured by months of supply - how long it would take to sell all homes currently listed if no new ones hit the market. Two to three months of supply signals strong demand and favors sellers. Six months or more means homes are sitting unsold, tipping the balance to buyers.

Tampa had a 7.2-month supply of homes in August - up from a 6.3-month supply in June, placing it firmly in the buyer's market zone and making it the fifth strongest of the top 50 US metro areas.

Tampa was a pandemic boomtown, and now its housing market is paying the price for overdeveloping as a result of the 2020 to 2022 demand.

People flocked to the city in search of space and sunshine when lockdown hit, but now demand is dwindling, and brand new homes are sitting on the market with little interest.

In fact, Tampa had a net inflow of just 10,000 residents last year, according to data from Redfin. That is less than a third of the 35,000 in 2023.

The condo market in particular has been suffering.

People flocked to Tampa in search of space and sunshine when lockdown hit, but now demand is dwindling and brand new homes are sitting on the market with little interest

Potential condo buyers have been abandoning deals, spooked by high prices, rising homeowners association (HOA) fees and insurance costs (Pictured: a row of houses with the Tampa skyline in the background)

Potential condo buyers have been abandoning deals, spooked by high prices, rising homeowners association (HOA) fees and insurance costs, while sellers are growing increasingly desperate to offload properties.

There were an estimated 72.3 percent more condo sellers than buyers (108,945 more) nationwide in August - the fifth straight month in which that figure has been over 70 percent.

Among the 50 biggest US cities, five of the 10 with the biggest surplus of condo sellers over buyers are in Florida. Tampa, where there were 241.2 percent more sellers was hit especially hard.

Tampa also had the country's highest home sale cancelation rate in September, with a staggering 20 percent of home-purchase agreements being called off - up 17.7 percent from the same time last year.

Adding to the Florida city's many struggles across the board, its home values are plummeting 3.3 percent year-on-year, according to August data.

This is the steepest drop in the country, and Tampa has now notched 10 straight months of falling prices.
The recent arrests of terrorists and the seizure of huge caches of explosives and detonators from Faridabad, along with the blast in Delhi, where even educated individuals such as doctors were found involved, have once again brought to light the critical role of money in sustaining terrorism. Terrorism cannot exist without funds. Every act of terror-whether a lone wolf attack or a coordinated large-scale operation-depends on a continuous flow of money.

Funds are the lifeblood of terrorism. They are used to procure weapons and explosives, train recruits, establish communication channels, maintain safe houses, generate propaganda, and even support the families of operatives who die in the line of their so-called "cause." Without this financial backbone, terrorist organisations would crumble.

Over the years, various terrorist groups-particularly those operating from Pakistan-have built a sophisticated and multilayered web of funding sources. These include the diversion of charity and Zakat funds, the narcotics trade, organised crime, counterfeit currency, hawala networks, and more recently, the misuse of NGOs and cryptocurrencies. The following sections explain the main channels through which terrorism is financed, with reference to Indian and global experiences.

Diversion of Charity

Religion and compassion-meant to serve humanity-are unfortunately misused by extremist organisations to fund terror. One of the five pillars of Islam, Zakat, obliges Muslims to donate a part of their income for the welfare of the poor. While millions of people contribute sincerely, some so-called charitable bodies divert these funds to sponsor terrorism.

Several Pakistan-based organisations function under the pretext of charity but are fronts for terror outfits. The Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), a front organisation of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), is a prominent example. It collects donations claiming to operate hospitals, schools, and ambulances, but a substantial portion of the money is diverted to fund training camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), to radicalise youth, and to procure arms and explosives used in attacks across India. When JuD came under international scrutiny, it floated another front, the Falah-e-Insaniyat Foundation (FIF), to continue its activities under a humanitarian disguise. Similarly, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) channels money through its so-called charity arm, the Al-Rahmat Trust (ART), headed by its chief Maulana Masood Azhar.

Globally, this pattern is not new. After the 9/11 attacks, the International Islamic Relief Organisation (IIRO), now renamed the International Organisation for Relief, Welfare and Development, was found to have branches in Indonesia and the Philippines that had worked with Al-Qaeda-linked groups. Interrogation of a terrorist by Delhi Police in 1999 revealed that its Pakistan branch had also financed training centres for militants.

Extremist groups also invest heavily in creating madrasas aimed at indoctrination rather than education. Many of these, particularly along the Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bangladesh borders, are managed by preachers belonging to the hard-line Salafi school of thought. Under the cover of religious instruction, they indoctrinate vulnerable youth and recruit them for extremist causes.

The Golden Crescent

The Golden Crescent, comprising Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan, remains one of the worlds largest narcotics-producing regions. Vast areas of Afghanistan are controlled or influenced by the Taliban, Al-Qaeda, and the Haqqani Network. These groups cultivate opium and operate laboratories along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, converting opium into heroin.

This heroin is then smuggled through Pakistan, Iran, and India to Europe, Africa, and other regions. The profits from this trade are enormous and are systematically used to fund terrorist operations. Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), in partnership with drug cartels and criminal syndicates, plays a key role in this narco-terror network. The impact is twofold-drug addiction weakens societies, while the profits fuel cross-border terrorism.

Crime Money and Extortion

Criminal activity is another convenient source of income for terrorist organisations. Kidnapping for ransom, extortion, and protection money rackets are commonly used to raise funds. The Indian Mujahideen (IM) financed its operations and bombings through ransom money. Similarly, the Popular Front of India (PFI) has been raising funds through extortion and coercive donations collected under the guise of charity. This fusion between organised crime and terrorism is referred to as the crime-terror nexus. Criminal syndicates provide logistical support and channels for money laundering, while terrorists supply manpower and protection. Such cooperation strengthens both networks and makes enforcement far more difficult.

ISI Involvement

State-sponsored terrorism is the most dangerous and sustained form of terror financing. Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has, for decades, acted as the principal architect, financier, and facilitator of terrorism against India. While some funds come directly from the states secret allocations, much of the money is generated through illicit activities such as narcotics trade, arms trafficking, and counterfeit currency.

The ISI had been deeply involved in printing and circulating Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN). These fake notes had been smuggled into India through routes such as Nepal, Bangladesh, and Gulf countries. The objective is twofold: to fund terrorism and to undermine Indias financial stability.

In some instances, even the Pakistan Embassy in New Delhi has been found transferring money to separatists and extremist elements under diplomatic cover. The ISI has thus created a vast and resilient network connecting drug traffickers, hawala operators, and criminal syndicates to ensure a steady flow of funds to terror outfits like LeT, JeM, and Hizbul Mujahideen.

Hawala Networks

The hawala system - an informal and trust-based money transfer network - remains one of the most preferred routes for terror financing. It operates outside formal banking systems, making it extremely difficult to trace.

Here, money does not physically cross borders. For example, a handler in Pakistan deposits cash with a local hawala agent and shares a unique code with the recipient in India. The hawala agent in Pakistan then informs his counterpart in India, who hands over the equivalent amount to the intended recipient after verifying the code. The two agents later settle accounts through trade manipulations, cash couriers, or overseas remittances.

Groups like LeT, JeM, and IM have long relied on this channel to fund their networks. Many hawala agents, motivated by profit, remain unaware that they are facilitating terrorism.

Barter Trade Misuse

The Srinagar-Muzaffarabad barter trade, launched on 21 October 2008 as a Confidence-Building Measure between India and Pakistan, allowed the exchange of 21 listed items without any monetary transaction. However, terror groups like Hizbul Mujahideen and Lashkar-e-Taiba soon misused this mechanism for trade-based money laundering.

Pakistani traders under-invoiced goods sent to India, creating surplus cash in Kashmir. The excess funds were then diverted to militants. Once this exploitation came to light, the Government of India suspended the barter trade on 18 April 2019.

Wire Transfers

Terrorists also misuse formal banking channels. Small-value wire transfers, often from countries such as Italy or the UK, are sent frequently to avoid detection. These remittances are masked as personal help or charity. Though individually minor, collectively they sustain sleeper cells and local operatives. Such patterns require deep analysis and inter-agency coordination to uncover.

Misuse of NGOs and Cryptocurrency

While NGOs play a vital role in humanitarian work, some have been exploited as fronts for radicalization and terror funding. Under the banner of social service, they raise funds domestically and internationally, diverting portions for extremist causes or anti-development propaganda. Transparent accounting, international audits, and strict oversight are therefore crucial.

In recent years, cryptocurrency has emerged as a new tool for terror finance. Its decentralized and anonymous nature enables quick transfer of value across borders without banking scrutiny. Funds can move digitally from Pakistan to Nepal or Bangladesh, get converted into cash, and then be physically couriered into India. This new dimension poses major challenges for financial intelligence units and requires global cooperation for detection and control.

Terror financing today is a complex, adaptive, and global phenomenon. From the misuse of religious charities and the narcotics trade to hawala, barter trade, NGOs, and cryptocurrencies, terrorists exploit every possible loophole.To combat this, countries must strengthen financial intelligence systems, AML/CFT frameworks, and international coordination. Regulation of digital assets, vigilance over NGOs, and public awareness are equally vital.

Ultimately, choking the financial lifeline of terrorism is the surest way to weaken it. When the flow of money stops, the machinery of terror collapses.
Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:BR  Get Free Report) has been given an average rating of Hold by the eight ratings firms that are covering the stock, Marketbeat.com reports. Five analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the company. The average 1-year price target among analysts that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $259.8333.

A number of equities research analysts recently commented on the stock. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Broadridge Financial Solutions from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday, November 8th. UBS Group decreased their price objective on shares of Broadridge Financial Solutions from $280.00 to $250.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday. Needham & Company LLC upped their price objective on shares of Broadridge Financial Solutions from $300.00 to $305.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 6th. Morgan Stanley cut their target price on Broadridge Financial Solutions from $261.00 to $256.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, November 5th. Finally, DA Davidson restated a neutral rating and set a $240.00 price target on shares of Broadridge Financial Solutions in a report on Tuesday, October 28th.

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In related news, CEO Timothy C. Gokey sold 5,674 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, August 25th. The stock was sold at an average price of $258.37, for a total value of $1,465,991.38. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer owned 143,285 shares of the companys stock, valued at $37,020,545.45. This trade represents a 3.81% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link . 1.10% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its position in shares of Broadridge Financial Solutions by 1.8% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 15,296,040 shares of the business services providers stock worth $3,643,058,000 after purchasing an additional 264,620 shares in the last quarter. State Street Corp raised its stake in Broadridge Financial Solutions by 0.6% during the second quarter. State Street Corp now owns 5,642,154 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $1,376,006,000 after buying an additional 35,061 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC raised its stake in Broadridge Financial Solutions by 4.3% during the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 3,292,241 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $797,031,000 after buying an additional 136,386 shares during the last quarter. Barclays PLC boosted its holdings in Broadridge Financial Solutions by 0.7% in the third quarter. Barclays PLC now owns 1,972,799 shares of the business services providers stock worth $469,862,000 after acquiring an additional 14,631 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. grew its stake in shares of Broadridge Financial Solutions by 8.6% in the third quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 1,901,022 shares of the business services providers stock worth $452,766,000 after acquiring an additional 149,756 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 90.03% of the companys stock.

Broadridge Financial Solutions Trading Up 0.1%

NYSE BR opened at $225.92 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $26.37 billion, a PE ratio of 28.93 and a beta of 0.96. Broadridge Financial Solutions has a 1-year low of $212.33 and a 1-year high of $271.91. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $233.79 and a 200-day moving average of $241.28. The company has a current ratio of 0.93, a quick ratio of 0.93 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.06.

Broadridge Financial Solutions (NYSE:BR  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, March 3rd. The business services provider reported $0.73 EPS for the quarter. The business had revenue of $1.05 billion for the quarter. Broadridge Financial Solutions had a return on equity of 43.28% and a net margin of 13.11%. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Broadridge Financial Solutions will post 8.53 EPS for the current year.

Broadridge Financial Solutions Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, January 5th. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 12th will be paid a dividend of $0.975 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, December 12th. This represents a $3.90 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.7%. Broadridge Financial Solutionss payout ratio is 49.94%.

Broadridge Financial Solutions Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc provides investor communications and technology-driven solutions for the financial services industry. The company's Investor Communication Solutions segment processes and distributes proxy materials to investors in equity securities and mutual funds, as well as facilitates related vote processing services; and distributes regulatory reports, class action, and corporate action/reorganization event information, as well as tax reporting solutions.

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During the Russian massive drone attack on Saturday night the Ukrainian Air Force shot down and suppressed two enemy missiles and 91 enemy drones, however, hits of one missile and 41 enemy strike UAVs were recorded at 13 locations, as well as falling debris at four locations.

As the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) reported on Telegram, on the night of November 15, the enemy attacked with three Kh-47M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles, as well as 135 strike UAVs of the Shahed, Gerbera types and drones of other types.

"The air attack was repelled by aviation, anti-aircraft missile troops, electronic warfare and unmanned systems units, and mobile fire groups of the Defense Forces of Ukraine. According to preliminary data, as of 09:00, air defense shot down and suppressed two Kh-47M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles and 91 enemy Shahed, Gerbera and other types of drones in the north, south and east of the country," the force said.

Thus, the overall effectiveness of air defense has now exceeded 67%.

It is reported that as of 09:00 the attack was ongoing, with several enemy UAVs remaining in the airspace.

As reported, the previous Russia's massive strike against Ukraine was carried out on the night of November 14, when 419 out of 449 drones and missiles were neutralized, and hits were also recorded at 13 locations. The most massive strike was carried out by the occupiers on September 7 using 818 strike UAVs and ground-based missiles, of which the air defense neutralized 751 air targets, but there were nine missiles and 56 strike UAVs hit at 37 locations, and downed drones (fragments) fell at eight locations. The highest percentage of neutralized drones and missiles was recorded on the night of July 9, when 718 drones and missiles were neutralized out of 729 launched by the occupiers, which gave an efficiency of about 96.9%.
AvalonBay Communities (NYSE:AVB  Free Report) had its price objective cut by Morgan Stanley from $225.00 to $222.50 in a report published on Thursday morning,Benzinga reports. They currently have an overweight rating on the real estate investment trusts stock.

Several other equities analysts have also weighed in on the company. Truist Financial raised AvalonBay Communities from a hold rating to a buy rating and cut their target price for the company from $224.00 to $218.00 in a research note on Thursday, September 11th. Piper Sandler decreased their target price on AvalonBay Communities from $200.00 to $190.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Cantor Fitzgerald initiated coverage on shares of AvalonBay Communities in a research note on Wednesday, October 1st. They issued a neutral rating and a $205.00 price objective on the stock. BNP Paribas Exane cut shares of AvalonBay Communities from an outperform rating to a neutral rating in a report on Monday, September 29th. Finally, Mizuho reiterated a neutral rating and set a $199.00 price target (down previously from $213.00) on shares of AvalonBay Communities in a research note on Thursday, August 14th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and twelve have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $209.35.

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AvalonBay Communities Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:AVB traded up $0.76 during trading hours on Thursday, hitting $177.74. 836,793 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 834,217. The company has a market cap of $25.17 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.70, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.54 and a beta of 0.84. AvalonBay Communities has a 52 week low of $166.73 and a 52 week high of $239.29. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.71, a quick ratio of 0.70 and a current ratio of 0.70. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $186.66 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $195.55.

AvalonBay Communities (NYSE:AVB  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The real estate investment trust reported $2.75 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.81 by ($0.06). AvalonBay Communities had a net margin of 38.78% and a return on equity of 9.75%. The company had revenue of $766.80 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $766.22 million. During the same period last year, the business earned $2.74 EPS. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that AvalonBay Communities will post 11.48 EPS for the current fiscal year.

AvalonBay Communities Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, September 30th were paid a $1.75 dividend. This represents a $7.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.9%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 30th. AvalonBay Communitiess dividend payout ratio is presently 85.47%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Metis Global Partners LLC grew its position in AvalonBay Communities by 13.8% during the 2nd quarter. Metis Global Partners LLC now owns 36,980 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $7,525,000 after purchasing an additional 4,473 shares during the period. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. grew its holdings in AvalonBay Communities by 9.1% during the 1st quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 344,505 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $73,938,000 after acquiring an additional 28,608 shares in the last quarter. Jump Financial LLC acquired a new stake in shares of AvalonBay Communities in the 1st quarter valued at about $526,000. Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of AvalonBay Communities by 1.5% during the second quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group Inc. now owns 723,402 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $147,212,000 after purchasing an additional 10,929 shares during the period. Finally, Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management Company Ltd raised its position in AvalonBay Communities by 2.9% in the second quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management Company Ltd now owns 49,878 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $10,150,000 after acquiring an additional 1,402 shares in the last quarter. 92.61% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About AvalonBay Communities

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AvalonBay Communities, Inc is a real estate investment trust, which engages in the development, acquisition, ownership, and operation of multifamily communities. It operates through the following segments: Same Store, Other Stabilized, and Development or Redevelopment. The Same Store segment refers to the operating communities that were owned and had stabilized occupancy.

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Barclays PLC (NYSE:BCS)s share price hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The company traded as high as $22.41 and last traded at $22.1550, with a volume of 4637383 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $22.21.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of analysts have weighed in on BCS shares. Zacks Research lowered shares of Barclays from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Barclays in a report on Thursday, October 23rd. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Barclays from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, October 3rd. Morgan Stanley reiterated an overweight rating on shares of Barclays in a research note on Monday, October 6th. Finally, Citigroup restated a neutral rating on shares of Barclays in a research note on Thursday, October 23rd. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy.

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Barclays Price Performance

The stock has a market capitalization of $75.81 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.99, a PEG ratio of 0.43 and a beta of 1.14. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.94, a quick ratio of 1.41 and a current ratio of 1.41. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $20.77 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $19.26.

Barclays (NYSE:BCS  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 22nd. The financial services provider reported $0.56 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.54 by $0.02. The company had revenue of $9.59 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.95 billion. Barclays had a return on equity of 8.19% and a net margin of 21.26%. As a group, analysts expect that Barclays PLC will post 2 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Trading of Barclays

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Twin Peaks Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Barclays during the 2nd quarter worth $27,000. Mark Sheptoff Financial Planning LLC purchased a new position in Barclays during the second quarter valued at $28,000. Elequin Capital LP purchased a new stake in Barclays in the first quarter worth about $30,000. Mather Group LLC. bought a new position in shares of Barclays in the third quarter worth about $30,000. Finally, Salomon & Ludwin LLC lifted its position in shares of Barclays by 2,673.6% during the 3rd quarter. Salomon & Ludwin LLC now owns 1,470 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $31,000 after buying an additional 1,417 shares in the last quarter. 3.39% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About Barclays

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Barclays PLC provides various financial services in the United Kingdom, Europe, the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The company operates through Barclays UK and Barclays International division segments. It offers financial services, such as retail banking, credit cards, wholesale banking, investment banking, wealth management, and investment management services.

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ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP  Get Free Report) had its price target lowered by investment analysts at BMO Capital Markets from $122.00 to $117.00 in a note issued to investors on Wednesday,MarketScreener reports. The brokerage currently has a buy rating on the energy producers stock. BMO Capital Markets price objective points to a potential upside of 27.95% from the companys current price.

COP has been the subject of several other research reports. Susquehanna lowered their target price on shares of ConocoPhillips to $113.00 and set a positive rating for the company in a report on Monday, October 20th. The Goldman Sachs Group reduced their price objective on shares of ConocoPhillips from $111.00 to $108.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Wells Fargo & Company began coverage on shares of ConocoPhillips in a research note on Friday, October 17th. They issued an equal weight rating and a $100.00 price objective for the company. Capital One Financial upped their target price on ConocoPhillips from $111.00 to $112.00 in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. Finally, Piper Sandler reduced their price target on ConocoPhillips from $124.00 to $115.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Monday, October 13th. Eighteen research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and six have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, ConocoPhillips has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $115.33.

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ConocoPhillips Trading Up 2.3%

NYSE COP traded up $2.02 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $91.44. 7,627,851 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 7,690,728. ConocoPhillips has a 52 week low of $79.88 and a 52 week high of $115.38. The company has a quick ratio of 1.10, a current ratio of 1.27 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $90.96 and a 200 day moving average price of $91.94. The stock has a market cap of $112.99 billion, a PE ratio of 12.27, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 0.58.

ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The energy producer reported $1.61 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.41 by $0.20. The firm had revenue of $15.03 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.51 billion. ConocoPhillips had a return on equity of 14.60% and a net margin of 15.26%.The companys quarterly revenue was up 14.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $1.78 EPS. Analysts forecast that ConocoPhillips will post 8.16 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insider Transactions at ConocoPhillips

In other ConocoPhillips news, Director William H. Mcraven bought 5,768 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, November 10th. The shares were bought at an average cost of $86.68 per share, for a total transaction of $499,970.24. Following the acquisition, the director directly owned 5,768 shares in the company, valued at approximately $499,970.24. The trade was a  increase in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. 0.24% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On ConocoPhillips

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of COP. Equitable Holdings Inc. lifted its holdings in ConocoPhillips by 16.7% during the third quarter. Equitable Holdings Inc. now owns 13,550 shares of the energy producers stock worth $1,282,000 after buying an additional 1,941 shares during the period. Vance Wealth LLC raised its position in shares of ConocoPhillips by 7.8% in the 3rd quarter. Vance Wealth LLC now owns 2,951 shares of the energy producers stock worth $279,000 after acquiring an additional 214 shares in the last quarter. Hotchkis & Wiley Capital Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of ConocoPhillips by 0.8% during the 3rd quarter. Hotchkis & Wiley Capital Management LLC now owns 2,076,989 shares of the energy producers stock worth $196,462,000 after purchasing an additional 16,469 shares during the last quarter. Daiwa Securities Group Inc. boosted its position in ConocoPhillips by 4.9% during the third quarter. Daiwa Securities Group Inc. now owns 256,416 shares of the energy producers stock valued at $24,255,000 after purchasing an additional 11,875 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Logan Capital Management Inc. grew its stake in ConocoPhillips by 0.6% in the third quarter. Logan Capital Management Inc. now owns 89,209 shares of the energy producers stock valued at $8,438,000 after purchasing an additional 546 shares during the last quarter. 82.36% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

ConocoPhillips Company Profile

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ConocoPhillips explores for, produces, transports, and markets crude oil, bitumen, natural gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and natural gas liquids in the United States, Canada, China, Libya, Malaysia, Norway, the United Kingdom, and internationally. The company's portfolio includes unconventional plays in North America; conventional assets in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia; global LNG developments; oil sands assets in Canada; and an inventory of global exploration prospects.

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Shares of Ceiba Investments (LON:CBA  Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high during trading on Friday . The stock traded as high as GBX 30 and last traded at GBX 30, with a volume of 41072 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at GBX 26.

Ceiba Investments Price Performance

The company has a quick ratio of 3.46, a current ratio of 0.81 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 21.26. The company has a 50 day moving average price of GBX 11.20. The stock has a market cap of 41.30 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -1.00 and a beta of 0.24.

About Ceiba Investments

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Investing in real estate and other real assets in Cuba

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Dunelm Group plc (LON:DNLM  Get Free Report) insider Luisa Wright sold 2,257 shares of Dunelm Group stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of GBX 1,121, for a total transaction of 25,300.97.

Dunelm Group Trading Down 0.5%

Shares of DNLM opened at GBX 1,128.44 on Friday. Dunelm Group plc has a 52-week low of GBX 836.61 and a 52-week high of GBX 1,249. The stock has a market cap of 2.27 billion, a PE ratio of 14.69, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of -10.32 and a beta of 1.18. The firms fifty day moving average is GBX 1,118.21 and its two-hundred day moving average is GBX 1,157.89. The company has a quick ratio of 0.16, a current ratio of 1.04 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 236.84.

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Dunelm Group (LON:DNLM  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, September 9th. The company reported GBX 77.20 EPS for the quarter. Dunelm Group had a return on equity of 96.64% and a net margin of 8.86%. Research analysts forecast that Dunelm Group plc will post 77.0957096 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages have commented on DNLM. Royal Bank Of Canada raised shares of Dunelm Group to an outperform rating and raised their price target for the company from GBX 1,200 to GBX 1,300 in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Shore Capital initiated coverage on Dunelm Group in a research note on Tuesday. They set a buy rating and a GBX 1,300 target price for the company. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft upped their price target on Dunelm Group from GBX 1,320 to GBX 1,360 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, August 26th. Canaccord Genuity Group reiterated a buy rating and issued a GBX 1,320 price objective on shares of Dunelm Group in a research note on Wednesday, September 10th. Finally, Berenberg Bank restated a buy rating and set a GBX 1,480 target price on shares of Dunelm Group in a research note on Tuesday, September 9th. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of GBX 1,397.13.

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About Dunelm Group

(Get Free Report)

Dunelm is the UKs market leader in homewares with a purpose to help create the joy of truly feeling at home, now and for generations to come. Its specialist customer proposition offers value, quality, choice and style across an extensive range of c.70,000 products, spanning multiple homewares and furniture categories and including services such as Made to Measure window treatments.

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Shares of Luxottica Group SpA (OTCMKTS:LUXTY  Get Free Report) shot up 0.4% during trading on Friday . The stock traded as high as $55.90 and last traded at $55.80. 2,900 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 80% from the average session volume of 14,259 shares. The stock had previously closed at $55.60.

Luxottica Group Price Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19, a current ratio of 1.18 and a quick ratio of 0.88. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $55.80 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $55.80. The stock has a market cap of $27.07 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.37 and a beta of 0.27.

Luxottica Group Company Profile

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Luxottica Group S.p.A., together with its subsidiaries, provides fashion, luxury, sports, and performance eyewear worldwide. It operates through two segments, Manufacturing and Wholesale Distribution, and Retail Distribution. The Manufacturing and Wholesale Distribution segment engages in the design, manufacture, distribution, and marketing of proprietary and designer lines of prescription frames and sunglasses.

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McGraw Hill (NYSE:MH  Free Report) had its price objective reduced by BMO Capital Markets from $25.00 to $21.00 in a research report released on Thursday morning,Benzinga reports. BMO Capital Markets currently has an outperform rating on the stock.

A number of other equities analysts have also issued reports on the company. Rothschild & Co Redburn assumed coverage on McGraw Hill in a report on Monday, August 18th. They set a buy rating and a $28.60 price target on the stock. Macquarie restated an outperform rating and set a $19.00 target price on shares of McGraw Hill in a report on Friday, October 17th. Robert W. Baird started coverage on McGraw Hill in a report on Monday, August 18th. They issued an outperform rating and a $21.00 price target for the company. Needham & Company LLC initiated coverage on McGraw Hill in a research note on Monday, August 18th. They set a buy rating and a $19.00 price target on the stock. Finally, UBS Group raised their target price on shares of McGraw Hill from $15.00 to $16.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twelve have assigned a Buy rating, two have issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $20.72.

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McGraw Hill Stock Up 5.0%

Shares of NYSE:MH traded up $0.74 during trading on Thursday, reaching $15.71. 1,968,964 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 556,188. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $12.85. McGraw Hill has a fifty-two week low of $10.69 and a fifty-two week high of $17.25.

McGraw Hill (NYSE:MH  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, November 12th. The company reported $1.40 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.35 by $1.05. The firm had revenue of $669.19 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $638.76 million. The firms revenue was down 2.8% compared to the same quarter last year. McGraw Hill has set its FY 2026 guidance at EPS.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. American Century Companies Inc. acquired a new stake in McGraw Hill during the third quarter worth about $37,786,000. Vanguard Group Inc. acquired a new position in shares of McGraw Hill during the 3rd quarter worth about $32,923,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. acquired a new stake in McGraw Hill in the third quarter valued at $14,600,000. Alberta Investment Management Corp acquired a new stake in McGraw Hill during the 3rd quarter valued at $12,550,000. Finally, Freestone Grove Partners LP acquired a new stake in McGraw Hill during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $8,162,000.

About McGraw Hill

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At McGraw Hill, our purpose is to unlock the potential of each learner at every stage of life. Our mission is to support educators, learners and professionals around the world with trusted, high-quality content and digital solutions that use data and learning science to adapt to each student as they progress towards their goals.

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Shares of Murray International (LON:MYI  Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during trading on Wednesday . The company traded as high as GBX 314.50 and last traded at GBX 314.14, with a volume of 428965 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at GBX 311.

Murray International Price Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.48, a current ratio of 11.36 and a quick ratio of 0.70. The company has a fifty day moving average price of GBX 304.34 and a 200 day moving average price of GBX 289.37. The company has a market capitalization of 1.85 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.91 and a beta of 0.79.

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Murray International (LON:MYI  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Friday, August 15th. The company reported GBX 7.57 earnings per share for the quarter. Murray International had a return on equity of 10.98% and a net margin of 90.03%.

Murray International Company Profile

A high conviction global portfolio built with the potential to grow capital and deliver a strong and rising income

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Nordea Bank AB (OTCMKTS:NRDBY  Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high during trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $17.60 and last traded at $17.59, with a volume of 2083 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $17.36.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research analysts recently issued reports on NRDBY shares. Barclays lowered Nordea Bank from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a report on Thursday, August 21st. Nordea Equity Research raised Nordea Bank from a reduce rating to a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. Citigroup reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Nordea Bank in a report on Thursday, October 9th. Kepler Capital Markets upgraded shares of Nordea Bank from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. Finally, Morgan Stanley reaffirmed an overweight rating on shares of Nordea Bank in a report on Tuesday, September 2nd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have assigned a Buy rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Nordea Bank presently has a consensus rating of Buy.

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Nordea Bank Stock Down 1.5%

The firm has a market cap of $59.83 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.41, a PEG ratio of 3.02 and a beta of 0.66. The company has a quick ratio of 1.26, a current ratio of 1.23 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.32. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $16.66 and a 200-day moving average price of $15.43.

Nordea Bank (OTCMKTS:NRDBY  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 16th. The company reported $0.42 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Nordea Bank had a return on equity of 15.38% and a net margin of 21.42%.The firm had revenue of $3.40 billion for the quarter. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Nordea Bank AB will post 1.4 EPS for the current year.

Nordea Bank Company Profile

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Nordea Bank Abp offers banking products and services in Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark, and internationally. It operates through Personal Banking, Business Banking, Large Corporates & Institutions, and Asset & Wealth Management segments. The Personal Banking segment provides various financial services to customers through mobile banking, over the phone, online meetings, and branch offices.

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Shares of Warrior Met Coal (NYSE:HCC  Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high on Wednesday . The company traded as high as $85.08 and last traded at $83.9070, with a volume of 110320 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $82.46.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities analysts recently issued reports on the company. Zacks Research raised Warrior Met Coal from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Friday, November 7th. Wall Street Zen raised Warrior Met Coal from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, October 11th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of Warrior Met Coal in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. B. Riley restated a buy rating on shares of Warrior Met Coal in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. Finally, UBS Group lifted their price objective on Warrior Met Coal from $68.00 to $75.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, November 6th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have assigned a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $71.50.

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Warrior Met Coal Stock Down 2.0%

The companys 50-day moving average is $66.26 and its 200 day moving average is $56.39. The company has a market capitalization of $4.14 billion, a PE ratio of 117.53 and a beta of 0.75. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12, a quick ratio of 3.00 and a current ratio of 4.13.

Warrior Met Coal (NYSE:HCC  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported $0.70 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of ($0.21) by $0.91. The company had revenue of $328.59 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $302.51 million. Warrior Met Coal had a net margin of 2.87% and a return on equity of 2.01%. The firms revenue was up .3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $0.80 EPS. As a group, analysts anticipate that Warrior Met Coal will post 4.86 EPS for the current year.

Warrior Met Coal Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 14th. Investors of record on Friday, November 7th will be paid a dividend of $0.08 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 7th. This represents a $0.32 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.4%. Warrior Met Coals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 47.76%.

Insider Activity at Warrior Met Coal

In other news, CEO Walter J. Scheller sold 18,966 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $75.00, for a total transaction of $1,422,450.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 394,183 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $29,563,725. The trade was a 4.59% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Insiders own 2.10% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC grew its position in Warrior Met Coal by 217.2% in the 2nd quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 682 shares of the companys stock valued at $31,000 after acquiring an additional 467 shares during the last quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. raised its position in shares of Warrior Met Coal by 266.1% during the 3rd quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 626 shares of the companys stock valued at $40,000 after buying an additional 455 shares during the period. Jones Financial Companies Lllp increased its stake in Warrior Met Coal by 4,337.5% during the third quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 710 shares of the companys stock worth $45,000 after purchasing an additional 694 shares during the period. Aster Capital Management DIFC Ltd raised its holdings in shares of Warrior Met Coal by 919.6% in the 3rd quarter. Aster Capital Management DIFC Ltd now owns 938 shares of the companys stock valued at $60,000 after purchasing an additional 846 shares in the last quarter. Finally, GAMMA Investing LLC grew its holdings in shares of Warrior Met Coal by 23.1% during the second quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 1,346 shares of the companys stock worth $62,000 after purchasing an additional 253 shares during the last quarter. 92.28% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

About Warrior Met Coal

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Warrior Met Coal, Inc produces and exports non-thermal metallurgical coal for the steel industry. It operates two underground mines located in Alabama. The company sells its metallurgical coal to a customer base of blast furnace steel producers located primarily in Europe, South America, and Asia. It also sells natural gas, which is extracted as a byproduct from coal production.

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Chinese ambassador to Japan strongly protests Takaichi's erroneous remarks regarding China

Xinhua) 09:43, November 15, 2025

TOKYO, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Ambassador to Japan Wu Jianghao met Japan's Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Takehiro Funakoshi on Friday to lodge solemn representations and a formal protest over Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's erroneous remarks regarding China.

Wu said that Takaichi's blatant and provocative remarks on China's Taiwan during a parliamentary debate violated basic common sense, crossed China's red line, threatened with force, and called for war. Moreover, she refused to admit her mistakes, refused to retract her statements or mitigate the adverse impact. It is a complete misjudgment of the situation and an overestimation of one's own strength.

The remarks constituted a gross interference in China's internal affairs and violated international law, the basic norms governing international relations, the one-China principle and the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan, and severely undermined the post-war international order and the political foundation of China-Japan relations, Wu said.

China is strongly indignant and will not tolerate this, and has lodged solemn representations and a strong protest, the ambassador added.

Wu pointed out that Taiwan is China's Taiwan and the Taiwan question is at the very heart of China's core interests. How to resolve the Taiwan question and realize national reunification is a matter for the Chinese people to decide and brooks no interference by any external force. China's national reunification must be and will definitely be fulfilled.

Takaichi administration's clamor for military intervention in the Taiwan Strait is a blatant challenge to China's core interests. It is actively tying Japan to the chariot to divide China, and will ultimately lead Japan to a dead end, said the ambassador.

Wu emphasized that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, as well as the 80th anniversary of the restoration of Taiwan. Japan committed innumerable crimes during its colonial rule in Taiwan. Japanese militarists have waged aggression more than once under the pretext of "survival-threatening situation," but ultimately suffered shameful defeats.

Wu said that China solemnly warns the Japanese side that today's China is no longer the China of the past. Should the Japanese side dare to use force to interfere in the Taiwan question, it will constitute an act of aggression, and only suffer a crushing defeat. China strongly urges Japan to deeply reflect on its history, retract its egregious statements, and stop its provocations and overstepping behaviors. Otherwise, it must bear all the consequences that follow.

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Liang Jun)
An elderly woman who was injured during the shelling of Kyiv by the Russian occupiers on the night of November 14 died in hospital on Saturday morning, Head of Kyiv City Military Administration Tymur Tkachenko said.

"Thus, the number of Kyiv residents killed by Russian terrorists is seven people. My sincere condolences to their relatives," Tkachenko said on the Telegram channel.

Earlier, it was reported about six dead (all from one multi-storey building in Troieshchyna residential area in Desniansky district of the capital) and 36 injured, among them were two children aged seven and ten and a pregnant woman. As of Friday evening, six victims were reported to remain in hospitals, five of them in serious condition.
Kodiak Gas Services (NYSE:KGS  Get Free Report) was downgraded by investment analysts at Zacks Research from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note issued on Wednesday,Zacks.com reports.

Other equities research analysts have also issued reports about the company. Barclays reduced their target price on Kodiak Gas Services from $37.00 to $35.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. Royal Bank Of Canada lifted their price target on shares of Kodiak Gas Services from $42.00 to $43.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 13th. Stifel Nicolaus set a $48.00 price target on shares of Kodiak Gas Services in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. Weiss Ratings downgraded Kodiak Gas Services from a buy (b-) rating to a hold (c) rating in a report on Monday. Finally, Mizuho upped their target price on shares of Kodiak Gas Services from $45.00 to $47.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, August 29th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $44.38.

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Kodiak Gas Services Stock Performance

Shares of KGS traded up $0.27 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $33.64. 2,882,791 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,346,663. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $34.81 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $34.41. The firm has a market capitalization of $2.92 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 42.05 and a beta of 1.31. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.08, a current ratio of 0.98 and a quick ratio of 0.69. Kodiak Gas Services has a twelve month low of $29.25 and a twelve month high of $50.43.

Kodiak Gas Services (NYSE:KGS  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The company reported $0.36 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.50 by ($0.14). The company had revenue of $322.74 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $328.23 million. Kodiak Gas Services had a net margin of 5.84% and a return on equity of 10.37%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down .6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned ($0.07) earnings per share. Analysts predict that Kodiak Gas Services will post 1.12 earnings per share for the current year.

Kodiak Gas Services announced that its board has approved a share buyback plan on Monday, August 11th that permits the company to buyback $50.00 million in shares. This buyback authorization permits the company to repurchase up to 1.8% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock buyback plans are often a sign that the companys leadership believes its stock is undervalued.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Kodiak Gas Services

Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Allworth Financial LP lifted its holdings in Kodiak Gas Services by 1,850.0% in the 2nd quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 741 shares of the companys stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 703 shares in the last quarter. Quarry LP purchased a new stake in Kodiak Gas Services in the first quarter valued at about $30,000. BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A S purchased a new position in shares of Kodiak Gas Services during the 1st quarter valued at about $37,000. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC grew its holdings in Kodiak Gas Services by 1,501.3% in the second quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,233 shares of the companys stock valued at $42,000 after purchasing an additional 1,156 shares during the period. Finally, Salem Investment Counselors Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Kodiak Gas Services during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $51,000. 24.95% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Kodiak Gas Services Company Profile

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Kodiak Gas Services, Inc operates contract compression infrastructure for customers in the oil and gas industry in the United States. It operates in two segments, Compression Operations and Other Services. The Compression Operations segment operates company-owned and customer-owned compression infrastructure to enable the production, gathering, and transportation of natural gas and oil.

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Artivion, Inc. (NYSE:AORT  Get Free Report) SVP Marshall Stanton sold 4,993 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, November 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $45.86, for a total transaction of $228,978.98. Following the transaction, the senior vice president directly owned 56,641 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,597,556.26. This trade represents a 8.10% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink.

Artivion Price Performance

NYSE:AORT traded up $0.12 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $45.71. 540,746 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 434,603. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52, a current ratio of 4.78 and a quick ratio of 3.48. The firms 50-day moving average is $42.69 and its 200-day moving average is $36.18. The stock has a market cap of $2.17 billion, a P/E ratio of -108.84 and a beta of 1.65. Artivion, Inc. has a 1-year low of $21.97 and a 1-year high of $48.04.

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Artivion (NYSE:AORT  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported $0.16 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.14 by $0.02. The business had revenue of $113.39 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $110.71 million. Artivion had a positive return on equity of 5.70% and a negative net margin of 4.43%.Artivions quarterly revenue was up 18.9% compared to the same quarter last year. Artivion has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. Equities research analysts expect that Artivion, Inc. will post 0.37 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research analysts recently commented on the stock. Citigroup restated an outperform rating on shares of Artivion in a report on Friday, October 10th. Oppenheimer restated an outperform rating and set a $50.00 price objective on shares of Artivion in a report on Friday, November 7th. Canaccord Genuity Group raised their price objective on shares of Artivion from $50.00 to $51.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, November 7th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d-) rating on shares of Artivion in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus lifted their target price on Artivion from $40.00 to $46.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Monday, September 29th. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, one has assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $49.11.

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Hedge Funds Weigh In On Artivion

Several hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Principal Financial Group Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Artivion by 2.4% during the first quarter. Principal Financial Group Inc. now owns 206,777 shares of the companys stock worth $5,083,000 after acquiring an additional 4,749 shares during the period. Invesco Ltd. grew its position in Artivion by 27.9% in the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 341,656 shares of the companys stock valued at $8,398,000 after purchasing an additional 74,589 shares in the last quarter. Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. bought a new stake in Artivion during the second quarter worth about $669,000. Fred Alger Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Artivion during the 1st quarter worth approximately $2,969,000. Finally, Diker Management LLC acquired a new stake in Artivion in the first quarter valued at $369,000. 86.37% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Artivion

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Artivion, Inc manufactures, processes, and distributes medical devices and implantable human tissues worldwide. The company provides BioGlue, a polymer consisting of bovine blood protein and an agent for cross-linking proteins for cardiac, vascular, neurologic, and pulmonary procedures; cardiac preservation services; PhotoFix, a bovine pericardial patch; and aortic arch stent grafts including E-vita Open Plus and E-vita Open Neo.

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Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated their outperform rating on shares of Atalaya Mining (LON:ATYM  Free Report) in a research report report published on Friday morning, Marketbeat.com reports. The brokerage currently has a GBX 800 price objective on the stock.

A number of other equities research analysts have also issued reports on ATYM. Berenberg Bank raised their price target on Atalaya Mining from GBX 620 to GBX 630 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 21st. Canaccord Genuity Group restated a buy rating and issued a GBX 830 price target on shares of Atalaya Mining in a report on Thursday. Finally, Peel Hunt reissued a buy rating and issued a GBX 705 price objective on shares of Atalaya Mining in a research report on Thursday. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Buy and an average target price of GBX 741.25.

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Atalaya Mining Trading Down 2.6%

Insider Buying and Selling

LON:ATYM traded down GBX 18 during mid-day trading on Friday, hitting GBX 671. 7,643,654 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 624,013. The company has a quick ratio of 1.64, a current ratio of 1.53 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 7.71. Atalaya Mining has a 52 week low of GBX 275.29 and a 52 week high of GBX 713. The stock has a market capitalization of 944.49 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.13, a PEG ratio of -2.02 and a beta of 1.64. The firms 50 day moving average is GBX 631.56 and its two-hundred day moving average is GBX 519.74.

In other news, insider Jesus Fernandez Lopez sold 70,000 shares of Atalaya Mining stock in a transaction on Monday, September 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of GBX 620, for a total transaction of 434,000. Company insiders own 31.43% of the companys stock.

Atalaya Mining Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Atalaya is a European copper producer that owns and operates the Proyecto Riotinto complex in southwest Spain. Atalayas shares trade on the London Stock Exchanges Main Market under the symbol ATYM.

Atalayas operations include the Cerro Colorado open pit mine and a modern 15 Mtpa processing plant, which has the potential to become a central processing hub for ore sourced from its wholly owned regional projects around Riotinto, such as Proyecto Masa Valverde and Proyecto Riotinto East.

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Intech Investment Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Bank Of Montreal (NYSE:BMO  Free Report) (TSE:BMO) by 49.3% in the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 155,674 shares of the banks stock after purchasing an additional 51,420 shares during the period. Intech Investment Management LLCs holdings in Bank Of Montreal were worth $17,217,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the business. Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Bank Of Montreal by 228.9% during the 1st quarter. Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC now owns 273 shares of the banks stock valued at $26,000 after acquiring an additional 190 shares in the last quarter. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC raised its position in Bank Of Montreal by 40.0% in the second quarter. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC now owns 350 shares of the banks stock valued at $39,000 after purchasing an additional 100 shares during the period. Harbor Asset Planning Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Bank Of Montreal during the second quarter worth about $39,000. Bayforest Capital Ltd purchased a new stake in shares of Bank Of Montreal in the first quarter worth about $34,000. Finally, Vision Financial Markets LLC grew its stake in shares of Bank Of Montreal by 100.0% in the second quarter. Vision Financial Markets LLC now owns 400 shares of the banks stock valued at $44,000 after buying an additional 200 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 45.82% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities analysts recently commented on the company. Wall Street Zen raised Bank Of Montreal from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, November 8th. UBS Group restated a neutral rating on shares of Bank Of Montreal in a research note on Wednesday, August 27th. Scotiabank reaffirmed a sector perform rating on shares of Bank Of Montreal in a research note on Wednesday, August 27th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Bank Of Montreal in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada cut shares of Bank Of Montreal from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating and decreased their price objective for the company from $168.00 to $163.00 in a research report on Friday, October 3rd. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have issued a Buy rating and five have assigned a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Bank Of Montreal presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $163.00.

Bank Of Montreal Price Performance

Shares of BMO opened at $123.90 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 1.00, a quick ratio of 1.00 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.11. The firm has a market cap of $88.60 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.17, a PEG ratio of 1.28 and a beta of 1.04. Bank Of Montreal has a 52 week low of $85.40 and a 52 week high of $131.36. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $126.94 and a 200-day moving average of $115.71.

Bank Of Montreal (NYSE:BMO  Get Free Report) (TSE:BMO) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, August 26th. The bank reported $2.33 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.12 by $0.21. Bank Of Montreal had a net margin of 11.00% and a return on equity of 10.57%. The firm had revenue of $6.51 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.84 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $2.64 earnings per share. The firms revenue was up 9.7% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, analysts forecast that Bank Of Montreal will post 7.71 EPS for the current year.

Bank Of Montreal Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 26th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, October 30th will be paid a $1.63 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, October 30th. This is an increase from Bank Of Montreals previous quarterly dividend of $1.18. This represents a $6.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.3%. Bank Of Montreals payout ratio is presently 57.28%.

Bank Of Montreal Profile

(Free Report)

Bank of Montreal provides diversified financial services primarily in North America. It operates through Canadian P&C, U.S P&C, BMO Wealth Management, and BMO Capital Markets segments. The companys personal banking products and services include deposits, mortgages, home lending, consumer credit, small business lending, credit cards, cash management, financial and investment advice, and other banking services; and commercial banking products and services comprise various of financing options and treasury and payment solutions, as well as risk management products.

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Bank of Montreal Can cut its stake in shares of Cadence Bank (NYSE:CADE  Free Report) by 5.0% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 34,705 shares of the companys stock after selling 1,841 shares during the period. Bank of Montreal Cans holdings in Cadence Bank were worth $1,110,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Sheets Smith Wealth Management raised its stake in shares of Cadence Bank by 2.6% during the second quarter. Sheets Smith Wealth Management now owns 18,040 shares of the companys stock valued at $577,000 after purchasing an additional 464 shares during the period. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank boosted its stake in shares of Cadence Bank by 0.9% in the first quarter. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank now owns 51,634 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,568,000 after purchasing an additional 480 shares during the period. Blue Trust Inc. grew its holdings in Cadence Bank by 9.2% during the 2nd quarter. Blue Trust Inc. now owns 7,224 shares of the companys stock valued at $231,000 after purchasing an additional 609 shares in the last quarter. Focus Partners Advisor Solutions LLC increased its stake in Cadence Bank by 3.1% during the 1st quarter. Focus Partners Advisor Solutions LLC now owns 20,661 shares of the companys stock worth $627,000 after buying an additional 622 shares during the period. Finally, RFG Advisory LLC lifted its holdings in Cadence Bank by 1.9% in the 2nd quarter. RFG Advisory LLC now owns 33,567 shares of the companys stock worth $1,073,000 after buying an additional 637 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 84.61% of the companys stock.

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Cadence Bank Stock Down 0.0%

NYSE:CADE opened at $38.36 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25, a quick ratio of 0.87 and a current ratio of 0.87. The company has a market capitalization of $6.99 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.90 and a beta of 0.95. Cadence Bank has a one year low of $25.22 and a one year high of $40.23. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $37.62 and a 200 day simple moving average of $34.80.

Cadence Bank Dividend Announcement

Cadence Bank ( NYSE:CADE Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Monday, October 20th. The company reported $0.81 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.77 by $0.04. The company had revenue of $517.24 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $523.60 million. Cadence Bank had a return on equity of 10.08% and a net margin of 18.15%.During the same quarter last year, the business posted $0.73 EPS. Sell-side analysts predict that Cadence Bank will post 2.94 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 2nd. Investors of record on Monday, December 15th will be paid a dividend of $0.275 per share. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 15th. This represents a $1.10 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.9%. Cadence Banks dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 39.86%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

CADE has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lowered Cadence Bank from a moderate buy rating to a hold rating and lifted their target price for the stock from $41.00 to $49.00 in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Piper Sandler set a $40.00 price target on Cadence Bank and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Monday, October 27th. Zacks Research lowered Cadence Bank from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, September 8th. Barclays downgraded Cadence Bank from an overweight rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, October 28th. Finally, DA Davidson upped their target price on Cadence Bank from $37.00 to $42.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Monday, July 28th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and nine have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $42.33.

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Cadence Bank Company Profile

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Cadence Bank provides commercial banking and financial services. Its products and services include consumer banking, consumer loans, mortgages, home equity lines and loans, credit cards, commercial and business banking, treasury management, specialized and asset-based lending, commercial real estate, equipment financing, and correspondent banking services.

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Bank of New York Mellon Corp boosted its position in Mueller Water Products (NYSE:MWA  Free Report) by 0.7% during the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 1,178,824 shares of the industrial products companys stock after buying an additional 8,063 shares during the quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corps holdings in Mueller Water Products were worth $28,339,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of MWA. Speece Thorson Capital Group Inc. grew its position in shares of Mueller Water Products by 1.7% in the second quarter. Speece Thorson Capital Group Inc. now owns 583,840 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $14,036,000 after purchasing an additional 9,689 shares during the last quarter. Sigma Planning Corp raised its stake in Mueller Water Products by 70.4% during the 2nd quarter. Sigma Planning Corp now owns 24,213 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $582,000 after purchasing an additional 10,000 shares during the last quarter. Versor Investments LP acquired a new position in Mueller Water Products during the 2nd quarter valued at $585,000. Creative Financial Designs Inc. ADV boosted its holdings in Mueller Water Products by 355.4% in the 2nd quarter. Creative Financial Designs Inc. ADV now owns 2,842 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $68,000 after purchasing an additional 2,218 shares during the period. Finally, Strs Ohio grew its position in Mueller Water Products by 7.6% in the 2nd quarter. Strs Ohio now owns 47,900 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,152,000 after purchasing an additional 3,400 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 91.68% of the companys stock.

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Mueller Water Products Stock Up 0.0%

Shares of NYSE MWA opened at $23.11 on Friday. Mueller Water Products has a 52-week low of $21.35 and a 52-week high of $28.58. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.48, a quick ratio of 2.56 and a current ratio of 3.86. The business has a fifty day moving average of $25.24 and a two-hundred day moving average of $25.18. The stock has a market cap of $3.61 billion, a PE ratio of 24.58, a PEG ratio of 1.21 and a beta of 1.18.

Mueller Water Products Increases Dividend

Mueller Water Products ( NYSE:MWA Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, February 24th. The industrial products company reported $0.11 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. The company had revenue of $237.40 million during the quarter. Mueller Water Products had a net margin of 10.67% and a return on equity of 20.89%. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Mueller Water Products will post 1.24 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, November 20th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 10th will be given a dividend of $0.07 per share. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 10th. This is a positive change from Mueller Water Productss previous quarterly dividend of $0.07. This represents a $0.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.2%. Mueller Water Productss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 23.14%.

Insider Activity

In other Mueller Water Products news, CAO Suzanne G. Smith sold 1,288 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $26.91, for a total transaction of $34,660.08. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer owned 763 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $20,532.33. This represents a 62.80% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, Director Brian C. Healy acquired 1,070 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, October 7th. The stock was purchased at an average price of $25.78 per share, for a total transaction of $27,584.60. Following the completion of the transaction, the director directly owned 16,800 shares in the company, valued at approximately $433,104. The trade was a 6.80% increase in their position. The disclosure for this purchase is available in the SEC filing. Insiders have sold 26,043 shares of company stock valued at $682,483 over the last three months. 1.10% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Separately, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of Mueller Water Products in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $29.00.

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Mueller Water Products Profile

(Free Report)

Mueller Water Products, Inc manufactures and markets products and services for the transmission, distribution, and measurement of water used by municipalities, and the residential and non-residential construction industries in the United States, Israel, and internationally. It operates in two segments, Water Flow Solutions and Water Management Solutions.

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Beacon Harbor Wealth Advisors Inc. cut its position in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY  Free Report) by 23.1% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 92,576 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 27,744 shares during the quarter. Beacon Harbor Wealth Advisors Inc.s holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb were worth $4,285,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Capstone Financial Advisors Inc. lifted its position in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 3.3% in the second quarter. Capstone Financial Advisors Inc. now owns 18,324 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $848,000 after purchasing an additional 577 shares in the last quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLC grew its position in Bristol Myers Squibb by 7.3% in the second quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLC now owns 872,113 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $40,370,000 after purchasing an additional 59,276 shares in the last quarter. Donoghue Forlines LLC increased its stake in Bristol Myers Squibb by 20.8% in the 2nd quarter. Donoghue Forlines LLC now owns 29,377 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,360,000 after buying an additional 5,049 shares during the last quarter. Oak Harvest Investment Services lifted its position in Bristol Myers Squibb by 5.5% during the 2nd quarter. Oak Harvest Investment Services now owns 168,043 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $7,779,000 after buying an additional 8,692 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A. boosted its stake in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 2.5% during the 2nd quarter. Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A. now owns 638,095 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $29,540,000 after buying an additional 15,599 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 76.41% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of analysts recently issued reports on the company. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research report on Tuesday, October 14th. Sanford C. Bernstein reaffirmed a market perform rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Scotiabank assumed coverage on Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Thursday. They set a sector perform rating and a $45.00 price objective on the stock. Daiwa America cut shares of Bristol Myers Squibb from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, August 5th. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Bristol Myers Squibb from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Saturday, November 8th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and fourteen have given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Bristol Myers Squibb has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $54.58.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, EVP David V. Elkins sold 56,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Tuesday, September 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $47.33, for a total value of $2,650,480.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 167,379 shares in the company, valued at $7,922,048.07. The trade was a 25.07% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Insiders own 0.09% of the companys stock.

Bristol Myers Squibb Trading Down 4.0%

BMY stock opened at $46.67 on Friday. Bristol Myers Squibb Company has a one year low of $42.52 and a one year high of $63.33. The stock has a market cap of $95.00 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.82, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.23 and a beta of 0.33. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $45.34 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $46.70. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.54, a current ratio of 1.21 and a quick ratio of 1.11.

Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.63 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.52 by $0.11. The company had revenue of $12.22 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.75 billion. Bristol Myers Squibb had a net margin of 10.58% and a return on equity of 80.04%. Bristol Myers Squibbs quarterly revenue was up 2.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $1.80 EPS. Bristol Myers Squibb has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.400-6.600 EPS. Equities analysts anticipate that Bristol Myers Squibb Company will post 6.74 EPS for the current year.

Bristol Myers Squibb Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 3rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 3rd were paid a dividend of $0.62 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 3rd. This represents a $2.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.3%. Bristol Myers Squibbs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 83.78%.

Bristol Myers Squibb Company Profile

(Free Report)

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company discovers, develops, licenses, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers products for hematology, oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, fibrotic, and neuroscience diseases. The company's products include Eliquis for reduction in risk of stroke/systemic embolism in non-valvular atrial fibrillation, and for the treatment of DVT/PE; Opdivo for various anti-cancer indications, including bladder, blood, CRC, head and neck, RCC, HCC, lung, melanoma, MPM, stomach and esophageal cancer; Pomalyst/Imnovid for multiple myeloma; Orencia for active rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis; and Sprycel for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia.

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SG Capital Management LLC trimmed its position in shares of Celestica, Inc. (NYSE:CLS  Free Report) (TSE:CLS) by 76.6% during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund owned 200,629 shares of the technology companys stock after selling 655,598 shares during the quarter. Celestica comprises 2.2% of SG Capital Management LLCs holdings, making the stock its 8th biggest position. SG Capital Management LLCs holdings in Celestica were worth $31,320,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its holdings in Celestica by 0.8% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 4,514,605 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $356,135,000 after purchasing an additional 35,690 shares in the last quarter. Voya Investment Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Celestica by 362.8% in the 1st quarter. Voya Investment Management LLC now owns 1,854,085 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $146,122,000 after buying an additional 1,453,473 shares during the period. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. boosted its stake in shares of Celestica by 17.6% in the second quarter. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. now owns 1,733,686 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $271,045,000 after buying an additional 259,504 shares in the last quarter. Royal Bank of Canada grew its holdings in Celestica by 1.5% during the first quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 1,280,563 shares of the technology companys stock worth $100,922,000 after acquiring an additional 19,391 shares during the period. Finally, Alkeon Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in Celestica during the first quarter worth $96,936,000. 67.38% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insider Activity

In related news, Director Laurette T. Koellner acquired 6,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, October 30th. The shares were acquired at an average price of $341.67 per share, with a total value of $2,050,020.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the director directly owned 6,000 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,050,020. The trade was a  increase in their ownership of the stock. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. 0.52% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages have commented on CLS. Royal Bank Of Canada boosted their target price on shares of Celestica from $315.00 to $400.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th. Citigroup raised shares of Celestica from a neutral rating to a buy rating and increased their target price for the company from $212.00 to $375.00 in a report on Monday, November 10th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price target on shares of Celestica from $295.00 to $360.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th. Stifel Nicolaus restated a buy rating and issued a $385.00 price target (up previously from $230.00) on shares of Celestica in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their price objective on Celestica from $340.00 to $440.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, thirteen have assigned a Buy rating and three have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Celestica currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $336.13.

Read Our Latest Analysis on CLS

Celestica Stock Up 5.6%

CLS stock opened at $309.17 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37, a current ratio of 1.47 and a quick ratio of 0.86. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $277.62 and its 200-day simple moving average is $196.17. Celestica, Inc. has a 12 month low of $58.05 and a 12 month high of $363.40. The firm has a market capitalization of $35.56 billion, a PE ratio of 50.19 and a beta of 1.85.

Celestica (NYSE:CLS  Get Free Report) (TSE:CLS) last posted its earnings results on Monday, October 27th. The technology company reported $1.58 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.45 by $0.13. The firm had revenue of $3.19 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.01 billion. Celestica had a return on equity of 30.53% and a net margin of 6.35%.Celesticas revenue was up 27.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $1.04 EPS. Equities analysts expect that Celestica, Inc. will post 4.35 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About Celestica

(Free Report)

Celestica Inc provides supply chain solutions in North America, Europe, and Asia. It operates through two segments: Advanced Technology Solutions, and Connectivity & Cloud Solutions. The company offers a range of product manufacturing and related supply chain services, including design and development, new product introduction, engineering services, component sourcing, electronics manufacturing and assembly, testing, complex mechanical assembly, systems integration, precision machining, order fulfillment, logistics, asset management, product licensing, and after-market repair and return services.

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Cetera Investment Advisers lifted its holdings in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:TSM  Free Report) by 7.4% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 554,607 shares of the semiconductor companys stock after purchasing an additional 38,421 shares during the period. Cetera Investment Advisers holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing were worth $125,613,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in TSM. Mid American Wealth Advisory Group Inc. bought a new position in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $33,000. First Command Advisory Services Inc. increased its stake in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 174.1% in the 2nd quarter. First Command Advisory Services Inc. now owns 159 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $36,000 after acquiring an additional 101 shares in the last quarter. 1248 Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing during the 1st quarter valued at $28,000. Vision Financial Markets LLC bought a new position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing during the first quarter worth $33,000. Finally, IMG Wealth Management Inc. grew its holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 70.5% in the second quarter. IMG Wealth Management Inc. now owns 225 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $51,000 after purchasing an additional 93 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 16.51% of the companys stock.

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Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Stock Performance

Shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing stock opened at $284.79 on Friday. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. has a 52 week low of $134.25 and a 52 week high of $311.37. The company has a quick ratio of 2.15, a current ratio of 2.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $285.44 and a 200-day moving average price of $241.53. The company has a market cap of $1.48 trillion, a PE ratio of 29.21, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.02 and a beta of 1.31.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Increases Dividend

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing ( NYSE:TSM Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, October 16th. The semiconductor company reported $2.92 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.59 by $0.33. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing had a return on equity of 36.06% and a net margin of 43.72%.The company had revenue of $32.36 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $951.89 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $1.94 earnings per share. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings quarterly revenue was up 40.1% on a year-over-year basis. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing has set its Q4 2025 guidance at EPS. Equities analysts anticipate that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. will post 9.2 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, April 9th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, March 17th will be paid a $0.9678 dividend. This represents a $3.87 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.4%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, March 17th. This is a positive change from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings previous quarterly dividend of $0.83. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 26.97%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several brokerages have recently weighed in on TSM. Needham & Company LLC reiterated a buy rating and set a $360.00 price objective on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a report on Monday, October 27th. Barclays boosted their target price on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from $330.00 to $355.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Susquehanna increased their price target on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from $300.00 to $400.00 and gave the stock a positive rating in a report on Friday, October 10th. Citigroup restated a buy rating on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a report on Friday, October 17th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c+) rating on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a research report on Thursday. Five analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $371.67.

Read Our Latest Report on TSM

About Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing

(Free Report)

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, packages, tests, and sells integrated circuits and other semiconductor devices in Taiwan, China, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Japan, the United States, and internationally. It provides a range of wafer fabrication processes, including processes to manufacture complementary metal- oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) logic, mixed-signal, radio frequency, embedded memory, bipolar CMOS mixed-signal, and others.

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CFO4Life Group LLC grew its stake in shares of International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM  Free Report) by 52.4% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 1,236 shares of the technology companys stock after acquiring an additional 425 shares during the quarter. CFO4Life Group LLCs holdings in International Business Machines were worth $364,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Family CFO Inc purchased a new position in International Business Machines in the second quarter worth about $25,000. SSA Swiss Advisors AG purchased a new stake in International Business Machines in the 1st quarter worth $28,000. Highline Wealth Partners LLC raised its stake in International Business Machines by 85.0% during the 2nd quarter. Highline Wealth Partners LLC now owns 111 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $33,000 after purchasing an additional 51 shares during the period. Dagco Inc. purchased a new position in International Business Machines in the 1st quarter worth approximately $31,000. Finally, Silicon Valley Capital Partners boosted its position in shares of International Business Machines by 322.6% during the first quarter. Silicon Valley Capital Partners now owns 131 shares of the technology companys stock worth $32,000 after acquiring an additional 100 shares during the last quarter. 58.96% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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International Business Machines Stock Performance

IBM opened at $305.35 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $285.42 billion, a P/E ratio of 36.53, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.33 and a beta of 0.71. The company has a quick ratio of 0.89, a current ratio of 0.93 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.97. The firms 50-day moving average price is $285.92 and its 200-day moving average price is $271.35. International Business Machines Corporation has a 52-week low of $204.07 and a 52-week high of $324.90.

International Business Machines Announces Dividend

International Business Machines ( NYSE:IBM Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 22nd. The technology company reported $2.65 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.45 by $0.20. International Business Machines had a return on equity of 37.76% and a net margin of 12.09%.The business had revenue of $16.33 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $16.10 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $2.30 EPS. The companys quarterly revenue was up 9.1% compared to the same quarter last year. International Business Machines has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that International Business Machines Corporation will post 10.78 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 10th. Investors of record on Monday, November 10th will be paid a $1.68 dividend. This represents a $6.72 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.2%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 10th. International Business Machiness payout ratio is currently 80.38%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research firms have weighed in on IBM. Morgan Stanley cut their price target on International Business Machines from $256.00 to $252.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Thursday, October 23rd. Sanford C. Bernstein initiated coverage on International Business Machines in a report on Monday, September 15th. They issued a market perform rating and a $280.00 price target on the stock. Erste Group Bank downgraded shares of International Business Machines from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, August 14th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on International Business Machines from $244.00 to $290.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, July 24th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus cut their target price on shares of International Business Machines from $310.00 to $295.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, October 23rd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have given a Buy rating, seven have issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $288.00.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on IBM

International Business Machines Profile

(Free Report)

International Business Machines Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides integrated solutions and services worldwide. The company operates through Software, Consulting, Infrastructure, and Financing segments. The Software segment offers a hybrid cloud and AI platforms that allows clients to realize their digital and AI transformations across the applications, data, and environments in which they operate.

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UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he condemned Russian missile and drone attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. Guterres posted the statement on the X platform on Friday.

"I strongly condemn Russia's large-scale missile and drone strikes on several Ukrainian regions. Attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure are unacceptable and must end immediately. I reiterate my call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, as a first step towards a just, comprehensive and sustainable peace that fully upholds Ukraine's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity," Guterres said on X.
Chiba Bank (OTCMKTS:CHBAY  Get Free Report) and Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft (NYSE:DB  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the better stock? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their valuation, earnings, dividends, risk, profitability, analyst recommendations and institutional ownership.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of recent recommendations for Chiba Bank and Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

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Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Chiba Bank 0 0 0 0 0.00 Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft 1 5 4 1 2.45

Insider & Institutional Ownership

27.9% of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft shares are held by institutional investors. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Profitability

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Chiba Bank 20.18% 6.59% 0.35% Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft 7.99% 6.13% 0.36%

Risk & Volatility

This table compares Chiba Bank and Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschafts net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Chiba Bank has a beta of 0.25, suggesting that its stock price is 75% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft has a beta of 1.02, suggesting that its stock price is 2% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Chiba Bank and Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschafts top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Chiba Bank $2.38 billion 3.18 $490.11 million $3.83 12.27 Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft $31.58 billion 2.33 $4.70 billion $2.71 13.63

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft has higher revenue and earnings than Chiba Bank. Chiba Bank is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Dividends

Chiba Bank pays an annual dividend of $1.07 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.3%. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft pays an annual dividend of $0.21 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.6%. Chiba Bank pays out 27.9% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft pays out 7.8% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft has increased its dividend for 4 consecutive years.

Summary

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft beats Chiba Bank on 11 of the 16 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Chiba Bank

(Get Free Report)

The Chiba Bank, Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, provides banking products and services in Japan and internationally. The company offers various deposit products, including savings, time deposits, currency deposits, investment trusts, bonds, and pensions; loans, which include mortgages, renovation loans, photovoltaic, vehicle, education, and other loan products; and insurance products, such as annuity, life, medical, student, death, and travel insurance. It also offers debit and credit cards, as well as internet banking services. In addition, the company engages in securities, investment management and advisory, software development, commissioned computation tasks, research and investigation of IT and financial technologies, leasing, operation, and management of investment funds, mergers and acquisition advisory, credit guarantee businesses, management and collection of claims businesses. Further, it provides loan guarantees and fee collection services; accounting, general administration entrustment, and temporary staff services; and is involved in outsourcing of operational business. Additionally, it rents and maintains office buildings and welfare facilities; provides research, survey, and consulting services; purchases and sells supplies and consumer goods; and engages in renewable energy generation. The company serves individuals and corporations. The Chiba Bank, Ltd. was incorporated in 1943 and is headquartered in Chiba City, Japan.

About Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft

(Get Free Report)

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft, a stock corporation, provides corporate and investment banking, and asset management products and services to private individuals, corporate entities, and institutional clients in Germany, the United Kingdom, rest of Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia-Pacific. It operates through Corporate Bank, Investment Bank, Private Bank, and Asset Management segments. The Corporate Bank segment offers cash management, trade finance and lending, trust and agency, and securities services, as well as risk management solutions. The Investment Bank segment provides debt origination, merger and acquisitions, foreign exchange, and equity advisory and origination platform services. The Private Bank segment offers payment and account services, and credit and deposit products, as well as investment advice products, such as environmental, social, and governance products. This segment also provides banking, wealth management, other financial, and postal and parcel services; and supports in planning, managing and investing wealth, financing personal and business interests, and servicing institutional and corporate needs. The Asset Management segment offers investment solutions, such as alternative investments, which include real estate, infrastructure, liquid real assets, and sustainable investments; and various other services, including insurance and pension solutions, asset liability management, portfolio management solutions, and asset allocation advisory to individuals and institutions. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft was founded in 1870 and is headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

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Clearstead Trust LLC lowered its holdings in shares of United Parcel Service, Inc. (NYSE:UPS  Free Report) by 62.2% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 475 shares of the transportation companys stock after selling 781 shares during the quarter. Clearstead Trust LLCs holdings in United Parcel Service were worth $48,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. ABN Amro Investment Solutions bought a new position in United Parcel Service in the 2nd quarter worth $6,447,000. Cherokee Insurance Co acquired a new stake in shares of United Parcel Service in the second quarter valued at about $1,489,000. Candriam S.C.A. increased its stake in shares of United Parcel Service by 2.2% in the second quarter. Candriam S.C.A. now owns 62,251 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $6,284,000 after purchasing an additional 1,317 shares during the period. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey increased its stake in shares of United Parcel Service by 4.6% in the second quarter. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey now owns 111,221 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $11,227,000 after purchasing an additional 4,940 shares during the period. Finally, Horrell Capital Management Inc. lifted its position in shares of United Parcel Service by 2.2% during the 2nd quarter. Horrell Capital Management Inc. now owns 27,427 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $2,768,000 after purchasing an additional 597 shares during the last quarter. 60.26% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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United Parcel Service Stock Up 0.0%

Shares of UPS opened at $96.01 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $81.37 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.84, a PEG ratio of 2.29 and a beta of 1.11. United Parcel Service, Inc. has a one year low of $82.00 and a one year high of $138.67. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $87.91 and its 200-day simple moving average is $92.91. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.50, a current ratio of 1.30 and a quick ratio of 1.32.

United Parcel Service Announces Dividend

United Parcel Service ( NYSE:UPS Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The transportation company reported $1.74 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.31 by $0.43. United Parcel Service had a return on equity of 40.07% and a net margin of 6.15%.The company had revenue of $21.42 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $20.94 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $1.76 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 3.7% on a year-over-year basis. United Parcel Service has set its Q4 2025 guidance at EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that United Parcel Service, Inc. will post 7.95 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 4th. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be paid a $1.64 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 17th. This represents a $6.56 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.8%. United Parcel Services payout ratio is currently 101.39%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages have recently issued reports on UPS. Vertical Research restated a hold rating and issued a $103.00 price objective on shares of United Parcel Service in a research note on Wednesday, July 30th. Evercore ISI dropped their price target on shares of United Parcel Service from $103.00 to $97.00 and set an in-line rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price target on shares of United Parcel Service from $85.00 to $97.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Wall Street Zen upgraded United Parcel Service from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, November 1st. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on United Parcel Service from $91.00 to $96.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, nine have issued a Buy rating, sixteen have given a Hold rating and four have issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $110.00.

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Insider Activity

In related news, Director Christiana Smith Shi purchased 500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 22nd. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $88.17 per share, with a total value of $44,085.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the director directly owned 500 shares of the companys stock, valued at $44,085. This trade represents a  increase in their ownership of the stock. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Insiders own 0.13% of the companys stock.

United Parcel Service Company Profile

(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.

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F & M Bank Corp. (OTCMKTS:FMBM  Get Free Report) passed above its 50-day moving average during trading on Friday . The stock has a 50-day moving average of $26.44 and traded as high as $26.95. F & M Bank shares last traded at $26.95, with a volume of 625 shares.

F & M Bank Stock Down 0.6%

The company has a current ratio of 0.75, a quick ratio of 0.75 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.07. The firm has a market capitalization of $95.92 million, a P/E ratio of 8.98 and a beta of 0.30. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $26.44 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $23.34.

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F & M Bank (OTCMKTS:FMBM  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 28th. The financial services provider reported $0.82 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. F & M Bank had a net margin of 13.58% and a return on equity of 11.69%. The firm had revenue of $13.23 million for the quarter.

About F & M Bank

F & M Bank Corp. operates as the bank holding company for Farmers & Merchants Bank that provides financial products and services to consumers and businesses in Virginia. The company offers commercial and individual demand and time deposit accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, internet and mobile banking services, and drive-in banking services.

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Floor & Decor (NYSE:FND  Get Free Report) was upgraded by stock analysts at The Goldman Sachs Group from a sell rating to a neutral rating in a research report issued on Thursday, Marketbeat Ratings reports. The firm presently has a $71.00 price objective on the stock, down from their prior price objective of $80.00. The Goldman Sachs Groups target price suggests a potential upside of 18.52% from the companys previous close.

A number of other equities analysts have also issued reports on FND. Zacks Research lowered shares of Floor & Decor from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Monday, October 27th. TD Cowen cut their price target on shares of Floor & Decor from $80.00 to $77.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a report on Friday, October 31st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their price objective on shares of Floor & Decor from $94.00 to $85.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Friday, October 31st. Evercore ISI lowered their price target on Floor & Decor from $75.00 to $65.00 and set an in-line rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday. Finally, Citigroup lowered their price target on shares of Floor & Decor from $81.00 to $75.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, October 9th. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, thirteen have given a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $83.95.

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Floor & Decor Stock Down 2.2%

Floor & Decor stock opened at $59.90 on Thursday. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $72.99 and a 200-day moving average price of $76.46. Floor & Decor has a 1-year low of $58.01 and a 1-year high of $122.90. The stock has a market capitalization of $6.46 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 29.95, a PEG ratio of 2.67 and a beta of 1.70. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.08, a current ratio of 1.27 and a quick ratio of 0.34.

Floor & Decor (NYSE:FND  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $0.53 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.47 by $0.06. The company had revenue of $1.18 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.18 billion. Floor & Decor had a net margin of 4.65% and a return on equity of 9.34%. Floor & Decors revenue for the quarter was up 5.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business earned $0.48 EPS. Floor & Decor has set its FY 2025 guidance at 1.870-1.970 EPS. Equities research analysts forecast that Floor & Decor will post 2 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Insider Transactions at Floor & Decor

In other news, President Bradley Paulsen purchased 5,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, November 3rd. The stock was bought at an average price of $60.27 per share, for a total transaction of $301,350.00. Following the acquisition, the president directly owned 30,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,808,100. The trade was a 20.00% increase in their position. The purchase was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. 2.10% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Principal Financial Group Inc. boosted its holdings in Floor & Decor by 46.0% in the third quarter. Principal Financial Group Inc. now owns 6,398,431 shares of the companys stock valued at $471,567,000 after purchasing an additional 2,015,999 shares in the last quarter. Capital World Investors boosted its holdings in shares of Floor & Decor by 37.2% in the third quarter. Capital World Investors now owns 6,914,316 shares of the companys stock valued at $509,589,000 after acquiring an additional 1,872,892 shares during the period. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD boosted its holdings in shares of Floor & Decor by 32.7% in the first quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 6,837,665 shares of the companys stock valued at $550,228,000 after acquiring an additional 1,686,085 shares during the period. Durable Capital Partners LP purchased a new position in shares of Floor & Decor during the second quarter worth approximately $106,221,000. Finally, Artisan Partners Limited Partnership purchased a new stake in Floor & Decor in the 2nd quarter valued at $64,450,000.

Floor & Decor Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc engages in the retail of hard surface flooring and related accessories. It provides wood, stone, and flooring products. Its products include vinyl, laminate, and tiles with materials installation for living rooms, kitchen, bathrooms, and walls. The company was founded by George Vincent West in 2000 and is headquartered in Atlanta, GA.

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Forsta AP Fonden boosted its position in Amcor PLC (NYSE:AMCR  Free Report) by 33.0% in the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 531,600 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 132,000 shares during the quarter. Forsta AP Fondens holdings in Amcor were worth $4,885,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other large investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in AMCR. Cerity Partners LLC raised its stake in shares of Amcor by 8.9% during the 1st quarter. Cerity Partners LLC now owns 83,560 shares of the companys stock valued at $811,000 after purchasing an additional 6,834 shares during the period. Bleakley Financial Group LLC raised its position in shares of Amcor by 20.5% in the first quarter. Bleakley Financial Group LLC now owns 33,145 shares of the companys stock worth $322,000 after buying an additional 5,629 shares in the last quarter. Sigma Planning Corp boosted its stake in Amcor by 17.5% during the first quarter. Sigma Planning Corp now owns 38,694 shares of the companys stock valued at $375,000 after buying an additional 5,750 shares during the period. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. increased its stake in Amcor by 45.3% in the 1st quarter. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. now owns 14,428 shares of the companys stock worth $140,000 after acquiring an additional 4,501 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Wealthfront Advisers LLC bought a new stake in shares of Amcor during the 1st quarter valued at about $154,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 45.14% of the companys stock.

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Amcor Price Performance

AMCR opened at $8.50 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.18, a current ratio of 1.21 and a quick ratio of 0.71. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $8.16 and its 200 day simple moving average is $8.84. The firm has a market cap of $19.58 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 23.60, a PEG ratio of 1.14 and a beta of 0.72. Amcor PLC has a 1 year low of $7.66 and a 1 year high of $10.70.

Amcor Increases Dividend

Amcor ( NYSE:AMCR Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported $0.19 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $0.19. Amcor had a net margin of 3.40% and a return on equity of 19.43%. The firm had revenue of $5.75 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.77 billion. The businesss revenue was up 71.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $0.16 earnings per share. As a group, analysts predict that Amcor PLC will post 0.74 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 17th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 28th will be given a dividend of $0.13 per share. This represents a $0.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 6.1%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 28th. This is a positive change from Amcors previous quarterly dividend of $0.13. Amcors dividend payout ratio is currently 152.94%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Amcor

In other Amcor news, Director Stephen E. Sterrett bought 10,000 shares of Amcor stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 19th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $8.55 per share, with a total value of $85,500.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the director owned 10,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $85,500. This represents a  increase in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Corporate insiders own 0.32% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages have issued reports on AMCR. JPMorgan Chase & Co. began coverage on shares of Amcor in a research report on Friday, September 19th. They set an overweight rating and a $10.00 target price for the company. Morgan Stanley reaffirmed an overweight rating and set a $11.50 price objective on shares of Amcor in a report on Wednesday. Robert W. Baird reduced their target price on Amcor from $11.00 to $10.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, August 15th. Stifel Nicolaus raised Amcor from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $10.20 price target for the company in a research note on Friday, October 10th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada assumed coverage on Amcor in a research report on Monday, September 22nd. They set a sector perform rating on the stock. Eleven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $10.91.

Check Out Our Latest Report on Amcor

About Amcor

(Free Report)

Amcor plc develops, produces, and sells packaging products in Europe, North America, Latin America, Africa, and the Asia Pacific regions. The company operates through two segments, Flexibles and Rigid Packaging. The Flexibles segment provides flexible and film packaging products in the food and beverage, medical and pharmaceutical, fresh produce, snack food, personal care, and other industries.

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Fox Run Management L.L.C. purchased a new position in shares of Banco Santander Chile (NYSE:BSAC  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor purchased 8,026 shares of the banks stock, valued at approximately $202,000.

Several other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in BSAC. Advisors Preferred LLC grew its stake in Banco Santander Chile by 2,389.8% during the 1st quarter. Advisors Preferred LLC now owns 29,056 shares of the banks stock worth $681,000 after buying an additional 27,889 shares during the last quarter. RWC Asset Management LLP boosted its holdings in shares of Banco Santander Chile by 45.3% during the first quarter. RWC Asset Management LLP now owns 826,754 shares of the banks stock valued at $18,850,000 after acquiring an additional 257,895 shares during the period. Natixis Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of Banco Santander Chile during the first quarter worth about $238,000. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. increased its holdings in shares of Banco Santander Chile by 20.5% in the 1st quarter. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. now owns 311,277 shares of the banks stock worth $7,097,000 after acquiring an additional 52,900 shares during the period. Finally, Invesco Ltd. lifted its position in Banco Santander Chile by 23.4% in the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 37,702 shares of the banks stock valued at $860,000 after purchasing an additional 7,158 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 6.42% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities research analysts have commented on BSAC shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price target on shares of Banco Santander Chile from $28.00 to $30.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Banco Santander Chile in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Wall Street Zen downgraded Banco Santander Chile from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Friday, September 5th. UBS Group raised their price target on Banco Santander Chile from $24.00 to $29.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Monday, November 10th. Finally, Citigroup cut shares of Banco Santander Chile from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, November 7th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Reduce and an average target price of $27.67.

Banco Santander Chile Price Performance

NYSE:BSAC opened at $29.14 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.77, a current ratio of 1.87 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.51. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $27.36 and its 200 day moving average price is $25.34. Banco Santander Chile has a 52-week low of $18.19 and a 52-week high of $30.75. The firm has a market cap of $13.73 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.56, a PEG ratio of 0.74 and a beta of 0.74.

Banco Santander Chile (NYSE:BSAC  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The bank reported $0.50 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.56 by ($0.06). Banco Santander Chile had a net margin of 24.74% and a return on equity of 22.18%. The business had revenue of $581.56 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $732.50 million. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Banco Santander Chile will post 2.07 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About Banco Santander Chile

(Free Report)

Banco Santander-Chile, together with its subsidiaries, provides commercial and retail banking services in Chile. It operates through Retail Banking, Middle-Market, Corporate Investment Banking, and Corporate Activities segments. The company offers debit and credit cards, checking accounts, and savings products; consumer, automobile, commercial, mortgage, and government-guaranteed loans; and Chilean peso and foreign currency-denominated loans to finance various commercial transactions, trade, foreign currency forward contracts, and credit lines, as well as mortgage financing services.

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Fusion Capital LLC bought a new position in Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm bought 1,701 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $240,000.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC lifted its position in Morgan Stanley by 111.0% in the first quarter. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC now owns 211 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $25,000 after purchasing an additional 111 shares during the period. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC increased its position in Morgan Stanley by 645.8% during the 2nd quarter. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC now owns 179 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 155 shares during the period. Hopwood Financial Services Inc. raised its stake in shares of Morgan Stanley by 50.0% during the 1st quarter. Hopwood Financial Services Inc. now owns 264 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $31,000 after buying an additional 88 shares in the last quarter. Compass Financial Services Inc acquired a new stake in shares of Morgan Stanley in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $32,000. Finally, Abound Wealth Management boosted its stake in shares of Morgan Stanley by 58.5% in the second quarter. Abound Wealth Management now owns 252 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $35,000 after buying an additional 93 shares in the last quarter. 84.19% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Morgan Stanley Price Performance

Shares of NYSE MS opened at $163.75 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 0.78, a quick ratio of 0.78 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.30. The companys 50-day moving average price is $159.79 and its 200 day moving average price is $144.79. Morgan Stanley has a 52 week low of $94.33 and a 52 week high of $171.77. The stock has a market cap of $260.25 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.80, a PEG ratio of 1.70 and a beta of 1.33.

Morgan Stanley Announces Dividend

Morgan Stanley ( NYSE:MS Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, October 15th. The financial services provider reported $2.80 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.07 by $0.73. The company had revenue of $17.98 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $16.42 billion. Morgan Stanley had a net margin of 13.85% and a return on equity of 16.55%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 18.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $1.88 earnings per share. As a group, research analysts forecast that Morgan Stanley will post 8.56 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Investors of record on Friday, October 31st were paid a $1.00 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 31st. This represents a $4.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.4%. Morgan Stanleys dividend payout ratio is presently 41.03%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research analysts have issued reports on the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on Morgan Stanley from $122.00 to $157.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their price target on shares of Morgan Stanley from $145.00 to $164.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. Royal Bank Of Canada raised their price objective on shares of Morgan Stanley from $145.00 to $171.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 1st. UBS Group boosted their price objective on shares of Morgan Stanley from $156.00 to $165.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, October 7th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on shares of Morgan Stanley from $165.00 to $177.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Thursday, October 16th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have given a Buy rating and nine have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $168.23.

View Our Latest Analysis on Morgan Stanley

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Morgan Stanley news, CEO Edward Pick sold 100,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, October 31st. The stock was sold at an average price of $164.34, for a total transaction of $16,434,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 574,986 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $94,493,199.24. This trade represents a 14.82% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Company insiders own 0.19% of the companys stock.

About Morgan Stanley

(Free Report)

Morgan Stanley, a financial holding company, provides various financial products and services to corporations, governments, financial institutions, and individuals in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. It operates through Institutional Securities, Wealth Management, and Investment Management segments.

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Fusion Capital LLC lifted its holdings in shares of KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE:KKR  Free Report) by 16.3% during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 5,936 shares of the asset managers stock after acquiring an additional 834 shares during the quarter. Fusion Capital LLCs holdings in KKR & Co. Inc. were worth $790,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of KKR. Saudi Central Bank purchased a new position in KKR & Co. Inc. during the 1st quarter valued at about $28,000. Clearstead Trust LLC purchased a new stake in shares of KKR & Co. Inc. in the 2nd quarter valued at $28,000. DiNuzzo Private Wealth Inc. grew its holdings in shares of KKR & Co. Inc. by 790.3% during the 2nd quarter. DiNuzzo Private Wealth Inc. now owns 276 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $37,000 after purchasing an additional 245 shares during the last quarter. GW&K Investment Management LLC raised its position in KKR & Co. Inc. by 44.6% in the 1st quarter. GW&K Investment Management LLC now owns 360 shares of the asset managers stock worth $42,000 after purchasing an additional 111 shares during the period. Finally, SouthState Corp purchased a new position in KKR & Co. Inc. in the 1st quarter worth $44,000. Institutional investors own 76.26% of the companys stock.

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KKR & Co. Inc. Trading Down 0.7%

KKR opened at $119.96 on Friday. KKR & Co. Inc. has a one year low of $86.15 and a one year high of $170.40. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.77, a current ratio of 0.08 and a quick ratio of 0.08. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $128.26 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $131.05. The firm has a market capitalization of $106.93 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 55.80, a PEG ratio of 1.33 and a beta of 1.92.

KKR & Co. Inc. Dividend Announcement

KKR & Co. Inc. ( NYSE:KKR Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, November 7th. The asset manager reported $1.41 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.30 by $0.11. KKR & Co. Inc. had a return on equity of 6.30% and a net margin of 12.95%.The firm had revenue of $4.36 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.14 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.38 EPS. Analysts predict that KKR & Co. Inc. will post 5.19 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 2nd. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be given a dividend of $0.185 per share. This represents a $0.74 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.6%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 17th. KKR & Co. Inc.s payout ratio is presently 31.36%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research firms have issued reports on KKR. Barclays upped their price target on shares of KKR & Co. Inc. from $151.00 to $154.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday. Weiss Ratings upgraded KKR & Co. Inc. from a sell (d+) rating to a hold (c-) rating in a research report on Saturday, October 25th. BMO Capital Markets assumed coverage on KKR & Co. Inc. in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. They issued an outperform rating and a $148.00 price target on the stock. Morgan Stanley lowered their price objective on KKR & Co. Inc. from $170.00 to $166.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st. Finally, TD Cowen cut their target price on shares of KKR & Co. Inc. from $153.00 to $146.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Monday, November 10th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have given a Buy rating and five have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, KKR & Co. Inc. has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $157.79.

Get Our Latest Research Report on KKR & Co. Inc.

KKR & Co. Inc. Company Profile

(Free Report)

KKR & Co, Inc operates as an investment firm. It offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. The firms business segments include Asset Management and Insurance Business. The Asset Management segment engages in providing private equity, real assets, credit and liquid strategies, capital markets, and principal activities.

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General American Investors, Inc. (NYSE:GAM  Get Free Report) announced an annual dividend on Wednesday, November 5th. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be given a dividend of 6.40 per share by the investment management company on Friday, December 26th. This represents a dividend yield of 1,018.0%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 17th. This is a 1,322.2% increase from General American Investorss previous annual dividend of $0.45.

General American Investors Trading Up 0.3%

Shares of GAM opened at $63.65 on Friday. General American Investors has a 12-month low of $41.80 and a 12-month high of $64.40. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $62.57 and a 200-day moving average price of $58.24.

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General American Investors Company Profile

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Further Reading

General American Investors Company, Inc is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm invests in the public equity markets of United States. It invests in growth stocks of companies. It makes investments in Information Technology, Financials, Consumer Staples, Consumer Discretionary, Retailing, Communication Services, Industrials, Health Care, Energy and Materials.

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Geode Capital Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Constellation Brands Inc (NYSE:STZ  Free Report) by 13.6% during the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 3,737,860 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 448,259 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLCs holdings in Constellation Brands were worth $605,293,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Zions Bancorporation National Association UT bought a new stake in Constellation Brands during the 1st quarter worth approximately $38,000. Flaharty Asset Management LLC bought a new position in Constellation Brands in the first quarter valued at approximately $39,000. Hoey Investments Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Constellation Brands in the second quarter valued at approximately $40,000. WPG Advisers LLC bought a new stake in shares of Constellation Brands during the first quarter worth $43,000. Finally, Curio Wealth LLC increased its position in shares of Constellation Brands by 29,900.0% during the second quarter. Curio Wealth LLC now owns 300 shares of the companys stock worth $49,000 after acquiring an additional 299 shares in the last quarter. 77.34% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Constellation Brands Price Performance

NYSE:STZ opened at $128.97 on Friday. Constellation Brands Inc has a 52-week low of $126.45 and a 52-week high of $245.31. The company has a market cap of $22.57 billion, a P/E ratio of 18.83, a P/E/G ratio of 0.39 and a beta of 1.75. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.26, a quick ratio of 0.54 and a current ratio of 1.08. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $136.23 and its 200 day simple moving average is $159.67.

Constellation Brands Announces Dividend

Constellation Brands ( NYSE:STZ Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 23rd. The company reported $3.12 earnings per share for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $2.32 billion during the quarter. Constellation Brands had a return on equity of 29.82% and a net margin of 11.88%. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Constellation Brands Inc will post 13.5 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, November 13th. Investors of record on Thursday, October 30th were issued a dividend of $1.02 per share. This represents a $4.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.2%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, October 30th. Constellation Brandss payout ratio is presently 59.56%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities research analysts recently commented on STZ shares. Zacks Research raised shares of Constellation Brands from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. BNP Paribas downgraded Constellation Brands from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research note on Wednesday, September 3rd. Sanford C. Bernstein reduced their price objective on Constellation Brands from $225.00 to $195.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, September 4th. Bank of America decreased their price objective on Constellation Brands from $150.00 to $142.00 and set an underperform rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, September 3rd. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. began coverage on Constellation Brands in a research report on Friday, November 7th. They issued a neutral rating and a $153.00 target price on the stock. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, thirteen have given a Buy rating, ten have given a Hold rating and four have issued a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Constellation Brands presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $186.44.

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About Constellation Brands

(Free Report)

Constellation Brands, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, produces, imports, markets, and sells beer, wine, and spirits in the United States, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand, and Italy. The company provides beer primarily under the Corona Extra, Corona Familiar, Corona Hard Seltzer, Corona Light, Corona Non-Alcoholic, Corona Premier, Corona Refresca, Modelo Especial, Modelo Chelada, Modelo Negra, Modelo Oro, Victoria, Vicky Chamoy, and Pacifico brands.

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Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha held a call with Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer-Stenergard, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said on its Telegram channel on Friday.

"It was a pleasure to talk with my Swedish colleague Maria Malmer-Stenergard. I informed her about the consequences of Russia's massive attacks and the situation on the battlefield. We focused on further joint efforts to strengthen Ukraine and our defense capabilities. In this context, we emphasized the importance of the recently signed agreement that paves the way for Ukraine to receive Gripen fighters. I expressed my gratitude for Sweden's unwavering support, in particular for the vital energy assistance packages and the principled position on the use of frozen Russian assets. I also informed my colleague about Ukraine's response to the latest anti-corruption investigations and our firm commitment to ensuring accountability," the minister said.
Geode Capital Management LLC raised its position in Essex Property Trust, Inc. (NYSE:ESS  Free Report) by 1.3% during the second quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 1,825,007 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after buying an additional 23,565 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLCs holdings in Essex Property Trust were worth $515,226,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the company. Huntington National Bank grew its holdings in shares of Essex Property Trust by 16.1% during the second quarter. Huntington National Bank now owns 288 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $82,000 after buying an additional 40 shares in the last quarter. Turning Point Benefit Group Inc. boosted its position in Essex Property Trust by 2.3% during the second quarter. Turning Point Benefit Group Inc. now owns 1,861 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $527,000 after acquiring an additional 42 shares during the last quarter. Stephens Inc. AR grew its stake in Essex Property Trust by 4.6% in the 1st quarter. Stephens Inc. AR now owns 985 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $302,000 after acquiring an additional 43 shares during the period. Horizon Investments LLC raised its holdings in Essex Property Trust by 5.0% in the 1st quarter. Horizon Investments LLC now owns 929 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $285,000 after acquiring an additional 44 shares during the last quarter. Finally, V Square Quantitative Management LLC raised its holdings in Essex Property Trust by 5.6% in the 2nd quarter. V Square Quantitative Management LLC now owns 912 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $258,000 after acquiring an additional 48 shares during the last quarter. 96.51% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Essex Property Trust Stock Performance

NYSE ESS opened at $254.49 on Friday. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $261.53 and its 200-day simple moving average is $271.75. The firm has a market capitalization of $16.39 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.34, a P/E/G ratio of 6.00 and a beta of 0.82. Essex Property Trust, Inc. has a 1-year low of $243.25 and a 1-year high of $316.29. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.16, a current ratio of 1.09 and a quick ratio of 1.09.

Essex Property Trust Announces Dividend

Essex Property Trust ( NYSE:ESS Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The real estate investment trust reported $3.97 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.96 by $0.01. Essex Property Trust had a net margin of 45.46% and a return on equity of 14.70%. The firm had revenue of $473.30 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $472.11 million. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $3.91 EPS. Essex Property Trust has set its Q4 2025 guidance at 3.930-4.030 EPS. FY 2025 guidance at 15.890-15.990 EPS. Equities analysts predict that Essex Property Trust, Inc. will post 15.96 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 30th were given a dividend of $2.57 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, September 30th. This represents a $10.28 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.0%. Essex Property Trusts payout ratio is 78.12%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of brokerages have recently commented on ESS. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c+) rating on shares of Essex Property Trust in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. BNP Paribas cut Essex Property Trust from an outperform rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, September 29th. Royal Bank Of Canada upped their price objective on shares of Essex Property Trust from $306.00 to $307.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, July 31st. UBS Group cut their price objective on shares of Essex Property Trust from $295.00 to $267.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Monday, November 10th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus raised their target price on shares of Essex Property Trust from $301.50 to $305.50 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, twelve have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Essex Property Trust currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $292.53.

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Essex Property Trust Profile

(Free Report)

Essex Property Trust, Inc, an S&P 500 company, is a fully integrated real estate investment trust (REIT) that acquires, develops, redevelops, and manages multifamily residential properties in selected West Coast markets. Essex currently has ownership interests in 252 apartment communities comprising approximately 62,000 apartment homes with an additional property in active development.

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Geode Capital Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (NYSE:CM  Free Report) (TSE:CM) by 19.7% in the second quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 7,547,548 shares of the banks stock after buying an additional 1,244,271 shares during the quarter. Geode Capital Management LLCs holdings in Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce were worth $542,697,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the business. Cerity Partners LLC grew its holdings in shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce by 110.7% in the first quarter. Cerity Partners LLC now owns 32,559 shares of the banks stock worth $1,833,000 after purchasing an additional 17,103 shares during the last quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA grew its stake in Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce by 4.5% in the 1st quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 116,110 shares of the banks stock worth $6,537,000 after acquiring an additional 4,996 shares in the last quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH raised its stake in shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce by 13.7% during the first quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH now owns 78,376 shares of the banks stock valued at $4,408,000 after acquiring an additional 9,426 shares in the last quarter. Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd purchased a new stake in shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce in the first quarter valued at approximately $328,000. Finally, Ninepoint Partners LP purchased a new stake in shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce in the first quarter valued at approximately $2,827,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 49.88% of the companys stock.

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Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Stock Performance

Shares of CM opened at $87.13 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 1.04, a quick ratio of 1.04 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14. The firm has a market cap of $80.92 billion, a PE ratio of 14.72, a P/E/G ratio of 1.76 and a beta of 1.03. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce has a 12 month low of $53.62 and a 12 month high of $87.29. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $81.63 and a 200-day moving average price of $74.35.

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Increases Dividend

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce ( NYSE:CM Get Free Report ) (TSE:CM) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, August 28th. The bank reported $1.57 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.43 by $0.14. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce had a return on equity of 14.67% and a net margin of 12.94%.The business had revenue of $5.24 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.12 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $1.93 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 3.3% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts predict that Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce will post 5.5 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, October 28th. Investors of record on Monday, September 29th were given a $0.97 dividend. This represents a $3.88 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.5%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, September 29th. This is a positive change from Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerces previous quarterly dividend of $0.70. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerces payout ratio is currently 47.64%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts have weighed in on CM shares. Wall Street Zen upgraded Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, November 3rd. Royal Bank Of Canada upped their price objective on shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce from $112.00 to $113.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, August 29th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b) rating on shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $107.50.

Read Our Latest Research Report on CM

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Company Profile

(Free Report)

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, a diversified financial institution, provides various financial products and services to personal, business, public sector, and institutional clients in Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company operates through Canadian Personal and Business Banking; Canadian Commercial Banking and Wealth Management; U.S.

Further Reading

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Intech Investment Management LLC grew its stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT  Free Report) by 3.0% in the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 121,560 shares of the healthcare product makers stock after acquiring an additional 3,591 shares during the quarter. Intech Investment Management LLCs holdings in Abbott Laboratories were worth $16,533,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of ABT. IMG Wealth Management Inc. raised its stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 759.1% during the second quarter. IMG Wealth Management Inc. now owns 189 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $26,000 after acquiring an additional 167 shares during the last quarter. Elequin Capital LP bought a new position in Abbott Laboratories during the 1st quarter worth $30,000. Vision Financial Markets LLC bought a new stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories in the 1st quarter valued at about $33,000. Accent Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories in the first quarter valued at about $38,000. Finally, Curio Wealth LLC raised its position in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 15,250.0% during the second quarter. Curio Wealth LLC now owns 307 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $42,000 after acquiring an additional 305 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 75.18% of the companys stock.

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Abbott Laboratories Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:ABT opened at $130.59 on Friday. The stocks 50 day moving average is $130.38 and its 200-day moving average is $131.35. Abbott Laboratories has a twelve month low of $110.86 and a twelve month high of $141.23. The company has a quick ratio of 1.30, a current ratio of 1.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25. The firm has a market capitalization of $227.08 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.36, a PEG ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 0.68.

Abbott Laboratories Announces Dividend

Abbott Laboratories ( NYSE:ABT Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 15th. The healthcare product maker reported $1.30 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, meeting analysts consensus estimates of $1.30. Abbott Laboratories had a net margin of 31.88% and a return on equity of 17.78%. The firm had revenue of $11.37 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.40 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.21 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was up 6.9% on a year-over-year basis. Abbott Laboratories has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.120-5.180 EPS. Sell-side analysts forecast that Abbott Laboratories will post 5.14 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, November 17th. Investors of record on Wednesday, October 15th will be given a $0.59 dividend. This represents a $2.36 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, October 15th. Abbott Laboratoriess dividend payout ratio is presently 29.57%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of brokerages have recently issued reports on ABT. BTIG Research restated a buy rating and issued a $145.00 price target on shares of Abbott Laboratories in a research report on Wednesday, October 15th. Sanford C. Bernstein lifted their target price on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $145.00 to $150.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. Royal Bank Of Canada reaffirmed an outperform rating and set a $147.00 price target on shares of Abbott Laboratories in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. Mizuho lifted their price objective on Abbott Laboratories from $135.00 to $140.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 14th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group upped their target price on Abbott Laboratories from $153.00 to $157.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 1st. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seventeen have issued a Buy rating and four have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Abbott Laboratories has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $147.00.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on ABT

About Abbott Laboratories

(Free Report)

Abbott Laboratories, together with its subsidiaries, discovers, develops, manufactures, and sells health care products worldwide. It operates in four segments: Established Pharmaceutical Products, Diagnostic Products, Nutritional Products, and Medical Devices. The company provides generic pharmaceuticals for the treatment of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, irritable bowel syndrome or biliary spasm, intrahepatic cholestasis or depressive symptoms, gynecological disorder, hormone replacement therapy, dyslipidemia, hypertension, hypothyroidism, Menieres disease and vestibular vertigo, pain, fever, inflammation, and migraine, as well as provides anti-infective clarithromycin, influenza vaccine, and products to regulate physiological rhythm of the colon.

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Kane Investment Management Inc. decreased its holdings in shares of International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:IBM  Free Report) by 35.1% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 2,008 shares of the technology companys stock after selling 1,088 shares during the period. Kane Investment Management Inc.s holdings in International Business Machines were worth $592,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of IBM. GQG Partners LLC bought a new stake in shares of International Business Machines during the first quarter worth approximately $1,040,057,000. Nuveen LLC acquired a new position in shares of International Business Machines during the 1st quarter valued at $960,386,000. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its position in shares of International Business Machines by 1.4% during the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 93,137,767 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $23,159,637,000 after buying an additional 1,298,515 shares during the last quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD boosted its position in International Business Machines by 41.6% during the first quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 3,164,987 shares of the technology companys stock worth $787,007,000 after purchasing an additional 930,448 shares during the period. Finally, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its holdings in shares of International Business Machines by 20.8% in the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 5,157,846 shares of the technology companys stock worth $1,282,550,000 after purchasing an additional 889,008 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 58.96% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research firms recently issued reports on IBM. Sanford C. Bernstein began coverage on shares of International Business Machines in a research note on Monday, September 15th. They issued a market perform rating and a $280.00 price target for the company. Royal Bank Of Canada lowered their target price on shares of International Business Machines from $315.00 to $300.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, October 23rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price target on shares of International Business Machines from $244.00 to $290.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, July 24th. Stifel Nicolaus cut their price objective on shares of International Business Machines from $310.00 to $295.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, October 23rd. Finally, Morgan Stanley dropped their price target on shares of International Business Machines from $256.00 to $252.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, October 23rd. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have assigned a Buy rating, seven have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $288.00.

International Business Machines Trading Up 0.2%

NYSE IBM opened at $305.35 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $285.42 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 36.53, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.33 and a beta of 0.71. The company has a quick ratio of 0.89, a current ratio of 0.93 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.97. The businesss fifty day moving average is $285.92 and its 200 day moving average is $271.35. International Business Machines Corporation has a twelve month low of $204.07 and a twelve month high of $324.90.

International Business Machines (NYSE:IBM  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 22nd. The technology company reported $2.65 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.45 by $0.20. The business had revenue of $16.33 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $16.10 billion. International Business Machines had a net margin of 12.09% and a return on equity of 37.76%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 9.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $2.30 EPS. International Business Machines has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that International Business Machines Corporation will post 10.78 EPS for the current fiscal year.

International Business Machines Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 10th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 10th will be given a $1.68 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 10th. This represents a $6.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.2%. International Business Machiness dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 80.38%.

International Business Machines Company Profile

(Free Report)

International Business Machines Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides integrated solutions and services worldwide. The company operates through Software, Consulting, Infrastructure, and Financing segments. The Software segment offers a hybrid cloud and AI platforms that allows clients to realize their digital and AI transformations across the applications, data, and environments in which they operate.

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Invesco Senior Income Trust (NYSE:VVR  Get Free Report) announced a monthly dividend on Monday, November 3rd. Investors of record on Monday, November 17th will be given a dividend of 0.038 per share by the investment management company on Friday, November 28th. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a yield of 13.6%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 17th.

Invesco Senior Income Trust Trading Down 0.1%

Shares of Invesco Senior Income Trust stock opened at $3.37 on Friday. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $3.38 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $3.58. Invesco Senior Income Trust has a fifty-two week low of $3.22 and a fifty-two week high of $4.21.

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About Invesco Senior Income Trust

(Get Free Report)

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Invesco Senior Income Trust is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Invesco Ltd. It is co-managed by Invesco Advisers, Inc, Invesco Asset Management Deutschland GmbH, Invesco Asset Management Limited, Invesco Asset Management (Japan) Limited, Invesco Australia Limited, Invesco Hong Kong Limited, Invesco Senior Secured Management, Inc, and Invesco Canada Ltd.

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John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III (NYSE:HPS  Get Free Report) passed below its fifty day moving average during trading on Friday . The stock has a fifty day moving average of $15.35 and traded as low as $14.99. John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III shares last traded at $15.0450, with a volume of 33,415 shares traded.

John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III Trading Down 0.1%

The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $15.35 and a 200 day simple moving average of $14.73.

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John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 28th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, November 13th will be given a $0.11 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, November 13th. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 8.8%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

About John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Invesco Ltd. grew its position in shares of John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III by 13.7% during the 3rd quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 268,253 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,142,000 after buying an additional 32,293 shares during the last quarter. UBS Group AG increased its holdings in shares of John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III by 10.8% during the 3rd quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 1,141,593 shares of the companys stock worth $17,626,000 after acquiring an additional 111,560 shares during the last quarter. Fiera Capital Corp increased its stake in John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III by 16.1% in the third quarter. Fiera Capital Corp now owns 97,820 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,510,000 after acquiring an additional 13,543 shares during the last quarter. Stratos Wealth Partners LTD. bought a new position in shares of John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $159,000. Finally, Post Resch Tallon Group Inc. boosted its stake in John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III by 6.4% in the third quarter. Post Resch Tallon Group Inc. now owns 25,407 shares of the companys stock valued at $392,000 after acquiring an additional 1,533 shares during the last quarter.

(Get Free Report)

John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched and managed by John Hancock Investment Management LLC. It is co-managed by John Hancock Asset Management. The fund invests in the fixed income markets of the United States. It seeks to invest in securities of companies operating across diversified sectors.

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Kane Investment Management Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF (NYSEARCA:PPA  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor purchased 4,457 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $632,000.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. LPL Financial LLC grew its holdings in shares of Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF by 1.2% during the first quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 1,452,559 shares of the companys stock valued at $169,296,000 after buying an additional 17,921 shares during the last quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC raised its stake in shares of Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF by 0.6% in the first quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC now owns 499,414 shares of the companys stock worth $58,207,000 after purchasing an additional 3,150 shares during the last quarter. Capital Asset Advisory Services LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF by 3.9% during the second quarter. Capital Asset Advisory Services LLC now owns 360,983 shares of the companys stock worth $50,473,000 after purchasing an additional 13,405 shares during the period. Axxcess Wealth Management LLC boosted its position in Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF by 3.4% in the second quarter. Axxcess Wealth Management LLC now owns 358,675 shares of the companys stock valued at $50,821,000 after buying an additional 11,909 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Cetera Investment Advisers increased its holdings in Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF by 16.3% in the 1st quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 279,660 shares of the companys stock worth $32,594,000 after buying an additional 39,268 shares during the period.

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Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF Trading Up 0.2%

Shares of NYSEARCA PPA opened at $150.85 on Friday. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $153.99 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $144.35. The stock has a market cap of $6.56 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 30.91 and a beta of 0.87. Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF has a 12 month low of $100.39 and a 12 month high of $160.37.

Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF Profile

PowerShares Aerospace & Defense Portfolio (Fund) seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield of the SPADE Defense Index (the Index). The Index is designed to identify a group of companies involved in the development, manufacturing, operations and support of the United States defense, homeland security and aerospace operations.

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Turning Point Brands, Inc. (NYSE:TPB  Get Free Report) Director Lawrence Wexler sold 10,401 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $99.03, for a total transaction of $1,030,011.03. Following the transaction, the director owned 280,368 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $27,764,843.04. The trade was a 3.58% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink.

Lawrence Wexler also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Wednesday, November 12th, Lawrence Wexler sold 21,069 shares of Turning Point Brands stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $100.02, for a total value of $2,107,321.38.

On Tuesday, November 11th, Lawrence Wexler sold 15,000 shares of Turning Point Brands stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $99.89, for a total value of $1,498,350.00.

Turning Point Brands Price Performance

Shares of NYSE TPB opened at $101.18 on Friday. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $95.18 and its 200-day simple moving average is $85.37. The firm has a market capitalization of $1.93 billion, a PE ratio of 35.63 and a beta of 0.85. Turning Point Brands, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $51.48 and a fifty-two week high of $110.55. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.82, a quick ratio of 3.98 and a current ratio of 5.56.

Turning Point Brands Announces Dividend

Turning Point Brands ( NYSE:TPB Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported $1.27 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.81 by $0.46. Turning Point Brands had a return on equity of 24.44% and a net margin of 12.02%.The firm had revenue of $118.98 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $111.42 million. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.68 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up 12.7% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Turning Point Brands, Inc. will post 2.59 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 9th. Investors of record on Friday, December 19th will be given a $0.075 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, December 19th. This represents a $0.30 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.3%. Turning Point Brandss payout ratio is 10.56%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Turning Point Brands

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. GAMMA Investing LLC raised its position in Turning Point Brands by 90.7% during the 2nd quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 328 shares of the companys stock worth $25,000 after buying an additional 156 shares during the last quarter. First Horizon Corp acquired a new position in shares of Turning Point Brands during the third quarter worth about $25,000. Briaud Financial Planning Inc purchased a new position in Turning Point Brands during the second quarter worth about $31,000. Huntington National Bank lifted its position in Turning Point Brands by 54.9% in the third quarter. Huntington National Bank now owns 457 shares of the companys stock valued at $45,000 after purchasing an additional 162 shares during the period. Finally, State of Alaska Department of Revenue acquired a new stake in Turning Point Brands in the third quarter valued at about $74,000. 96.12% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several brokerages have issued reports on TPB. Needham & Company LLC assumed coverage on Turning Point Brands in a report on Friday, August 1st. They set a hold rating on the stock. Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b) rating on shares of Turning Point Brands in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Zacks Research upgraded Turning Point Brands from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Wednesday. Oppenheimer set a $110.00 target price on shares of Turning Point Brands and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. Finally, Alliance Global Partners upped their price target on shares of Turning Point Brands from $103.00 to $110.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have assigned a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus price target of $95.00.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on TPB

About Turning Point Brands

(Get Free Report)

Turning Point Brands, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, markets, and distributes branded consumer products. The company operates through three segments: Zig-Zag Products, Stokers Products, and Creative Distribution Solutions. Zig-Zag Products segment markets and distributes rolling papers, tubes, finished cigars, make-your-own cigar wraps, and related products, as well as lighters and other accessories under the Zig-Zag brand.

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Los Angeles Capital Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Titan America SA (NYSE:TTAM  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund purchased 45,540 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $568,000.

A number of other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. acquired a new stake in Titan America during the first quarter worth $135,000. Venator Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Titan America during the 1st quarter worth $773,000. Seven Grand Managers LLC purchased a new position in shares of Titan America during the 1st quarter worth $946,000. Eisler Capital Management Ltd. acquired a new stake in shares of Titan America during the 1st quarter worth about $1,011,000. Finally, Aperture Investors LLC purchased a new stake in Titan America in the 1st quarter valued at about $1,054,000.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

TTAM has been the subject of several research analyst reports. Stifel Nicolaus reaffirmed a hold rating and set a $15.00 target price (down previously from $17.00) on shares of Titan America in a research note on Monday, July 28th. Bank of America restated an underperform rating and issued a $14.00 price objective on shares of Titan America in a report on Thursday, July 24th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have assigned a Buy rating, four have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Titan America currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $17.07.

Titan America Stock Down 1.9%

Shares of NYSE:TTAM opened at $15.51 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.45, a current ratio of 2.95 and a quick ratio of 1.36. The firm has a market capitalization of $2.86 billion and a PE ratio of 15.66. The firms 50-day moving average is $15.19 and its two-hundred day moving average is $14.49. Titan America SA has a 1 year low of $10.80 and a 1 year high of $17.78.

Titan America (NYSE:TTAM  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported $0.31 EPS for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $0.31. The business had revenue of $436.85 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $439.30 million. Titan America had a net margin of 10.83% and a return on equity of 20.12%. The companys revenue was up 6.2% on a year-over-year basis. Titan America has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS.

Titan America Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 29th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, December 17th will be paid a $0.04 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 17th. Titan Americas payout ratio is 16.16%.

Titan America Company Profile

(Free Report)

Titan America is a leading vertically integrated, multi-regional manufacturer and supplier of heavy building materials and services operating primarily on the Eastern Seaboard of the United States (the Eastern Seaboard). We are a leading provider of materials that contribute to lower carbon emissions than traditional building materials and/or beneficial reuse of waste materials.

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Magna International Inc. (TSE:MG  Get Free Report) (NYSE:MGA) shares reached a new 52-week high during trading on Thursday . The stock traded as high as C$71.14 and last traded at C$70.69, with a volume of 1461119 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at C$70.54.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of research firms have recently commented on MG. Citigroup raised shares of Magna International to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, October 10th. Cfra Research raised shares of Magna International to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, August 4th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets upgraded shares of Magna International to a strong-buy rating in a report on Monday, November 3rd. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of C$61.00.

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Check Out Our Latest Research Report on MG

Magna International Price Performance

The companys fifty day moving average is C$65.37 and its two-hundred day moving average is C$58.55. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 61.81, a quick ratio of 0.83 and a current ratio of 1.14. The firm has a market cap of C$19.42 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.88, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.45 and a beta of 1.88.

Magna International (TSE:MG  Get Free Report) (NYSE:MGA) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, October 31st. The company reported C$1.08 EPS for the quarter. Magna International had a return on equity of 9.11% and a net margin of 2.52%.The company had revenue of C$14.57 billion for the quarter. Equities research analysts forecast that Magna International Inc. will post 8.8948171 EPS for the current year.

Magna International Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 28th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 28th will be given a $0.485 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. This represents a $1.94 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.8%. Magna Internationals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 52.88%.

Magna International Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Magna International prides itself on a highly entrepreneurial culture and a corporate constitution that outlines distribution of profits to various stakeholders. This automotive suppliers product groups include exteriors, interiors, seating, roof systems, body and chassis, powertrain, vision and electronic systems, closure systems, electric vehicle systems, tooling and engineering, and contracted vehicle assembly.

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U.S. President Donald Trump expressed hope for an end to the Russian-Ukrainian war in the near future by strengthening secondary sanctions against Russia, and reported that the number of deaths in it on both sides during the month reached 25,000.

"Last week they say during the month, during the last month, actually, 25,000 soldiers were killed between the two countries, fairly evenly split. Think of it, 25,000 young, now they're getting older by the way, I must tell you. But young soldiers were killed. It would have never happened if I were president. I thought I have a very good relationship with President Putin," Trump said in an interview with the GB News British television channel.

He noted "not since the Second World War has anything been like that," but expressed hope that he would be able to end the war. "It's going to happen. I hope it's going to happen soon. We're putting a lot of pressure on them, you know, with India and the oil and India is now pulling out and others are pulling out because as Russia sells oil, they have money to do things. But I think we're going to get it done. But it's a shame," the U.S. president said.

Asked if he was annoyed that he had not been able to help end the war in Ukraine, Trump replied in the affirmative. "It is. So I settled eight wars and I have one to go... I thought that was going to be an easier one because I solved some of the wars, which were going on, in one case, 32 years. And I got it settled in, like two days. I'm very proud of that," he said.

The U.S. president also said that he was able to stop the war between India and Pakistan. "Nuclear nations, and they were going at it, you know, they were really going at it. Eight planes were shot down. They were real. And who knows what happens with the nuclear powerful nuclear weapons. And I said, look, if you're going to go and fight, I'm not going to make any trade deals with you guys. And I put tariffs and did all sorts of things. And within 48 hours I get that, I got that taken care of. They're good. And that's a big thing. But I did that eight times. The one I haven't done yet is Russia and Ukraine. It should have never started. It's a bloodbath. It is a terrible bloodbath," Trump said.
Marsh & McLennan Companies (NYSE:MMC  Get Free Report) and Detwiler Fenton Group (OTCMKTS:DMCD  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the better investment? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their earnings, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, risk, valuation, dividends and profitability.

Profitability

This table compares Marsh & McLennan Companies and Detwiler Fenton Groups net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

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Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Marsh & McLennan Companies 15.60% 31.79% 8.14% Detwiler Fenton Group N/A N/A N/A

Volatility & Risk

Marsh & McLennan Companies has a beta of 0.78, suggesting that its stock price is 22% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Detwiler Fenton Group has a beta of -0.89, suggesting that its stock price is 189% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Earnings & Valuation

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Marsh & McLennan Companies $26.45 billion 3.39 $4.06 billion $8.34 21.92 Detwiler Fenton Group N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

This table compares Marsh & McLennan Companies and Detwiler Fenton Groups top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Marsh & McLennan Companies has higher revenue and earnings than Detwiler Fenton Group.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

88.0% of Marsh & McLennan Companies shares are held by institutional investors. 0.4% of Marsh & McLennan Companies shares are held by insiders. Comparatively, 40.5% of Detwiler Fenton Group shares are held by 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.

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of recent recommendations for Marsh & McLennan Companies and Detwiler Fenton Group, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Marsh & McLennan Companies 1 10 7 0 2.33 Detwiler Fenton Group 0 0 0 0 0.00

Marsh & McLennan Companies currently has a consensus price target of $228.63, indicating a potential upside of 25.04%. Given Marsh & McLennan Companies stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, equities analysts plainly believe Marsh & McLennan Companies is more favorable than Detwiler Fenton Group.

Summary

Marsh & McLennan Companies beats Detwiler Fenton Group on 9 of the 10 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Marsh & McLennan Companies

(Get Free Report)

Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc. is a professional services firm, which engages in offering clients advice and solutions in risk, strategy, and people. It operates through the Risk and Insurance Services, and Consulting segments. The Risk and Insurance Services segment is involved in risk management activities, as well as insurance and reinsurance broking and services. The Consulting segment offers health, wealth, and career solutions and products, and specialized management, strategic, economic, and brand consulting services. The company was founded by Henry W. Marsh and Donald R. McLennan in 1871 and is headquartered in New York, NY.

About Detwiler Fenton Group

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Detwiler Fenton Group, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides financial services to institutional and individual investors primarily in the United States. The company offers institutional channel research and wealth management/investment brokerage services to high net worth and other individuals. It also markets annuities and life insurance, health insurance, and long term care products, as well as mutual funds. The company, formerly known as Detwiler, Mitchell & Co., was founded in 1983 and is based in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA grew its position in shares of Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA  Free Report) by 25.6% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 6,372,404 shares of the credit services providers stock after acquiring an additional 1,299,977 shares during the quarter. Mastercard accounts for 1.1% of Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MAs holdings, making the stock its 9th biggest position. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MAs holdings in Mastercard were worth $3,580,909,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in MA. LGT Financial Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Mastercard in the 2nd quarter valued at $25,000. Family Legacy Financial Solutions LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Mastercard in the second quarter valued at about $26,000. Flaharty Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in Mastercard during the first quarter worth about $27,000. Keystone Global Partners LLC acquired a new position in Mastercard during the first quarter valued at approximately $31,000. Finally, IMG Wealth Management Inc. bought a new position in Mastercard in the second quarter valued at approximately $31,000. 97.28% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities research analysts have recently commented on MA shares. Royal Bank Of Canada increased their price objective on Mastercard from $645.00 to $654.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, October 31st. Truist Financial dropped their target price on shares of Mastercard from $638.00 to $630.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, November 4th. Tigress Financial boosted their price target on Mastercard from $685.00 to $730.00 and gave the stock a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Mastercard from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday, October 18th. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b) rating on shares of Mastercard in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twenty-two have issued a Buy rating and three have issued a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Buy and a consensus price target of $652.50.

Insider Activity at Mastercard

In other news, CFO J. Mehra Sachin sold 17,816 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 19th. The shares were sold at an average price of $586.89, for a total value of $10,456,032.24. Following the sale, the chief financial officer directly owned 31,234 shares in the company, valued at approximately $18,330,922.26. This trade represents a 36.32% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Company insiders own 0.09% of the companys stock.

Mastercard Trading Down 1.8%

MA opened at $545.31 on Friday. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $568.49 and a 200 day simple moving average of $569.72. Mastercard Incorporated has a twelve month low of $465.59 and a twelve month high of $601.77. The company has a quick ratio of 1.16, a current ratio of 1.16 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.41. The stock has a market capitalization of $489.68 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 36.77, a P/E/G ratio of 2.27 and a beta of 0.92.

Mastercard (NYSE:MA  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The credit services provider reported $4.38 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $4.31 by $0.07. The firm had revenue of $8.60 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.53 billion. Mastercard had a return on equity of 200.01% and a net margin of 44.93%.The companys quarterly revenue was up 16.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $3.89 earnings per share. Analysts predict that Mastercard Incorporated will post 15.91 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Mastercard Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 7th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, October 9th were given a $0.76 dividend. This represents a $3.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.6%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, October 9th. Mastercards payout ratio is currently 19.44%.

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.

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Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA reduced its stake in Ares Management Corporation (NYSE:ARES  Free Report) by 8.7% during the second quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 4,585,254 shares of the asset managers stock after selling 438,731 shares during the quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MAs holdings in Ares Management were worth $794,166,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Financial Network Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new stake in Ares Management during the 1st quarter valued at $31,000. Banque Transatlantique SA bought a new stake in shares of Ares Management in the first quarter valued at about $39,000. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC purchased a new stake in Ares Management in the second quarter worth about $43,000. SouthState Corp bought a new position in Ares Management during the 1st quarter worth about $48,000. Finally, GW&K Investment Management LLC increased its position in Ares Management by 69.5% during the 1st quarter. GW&K Investment Management LLC now owns 373 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $55,000 after purchasing an additional 153 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 50.03% of the companys stock.

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Insider Activity

In related news, Chairman Antony P. Ressler sold 196,197 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $178.79, for a total value of $35,078,061.63. Following the sale, the chairman owned 1,424,538 shares in the company, valued at $254,693,149.02. This represents a 12.11% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, CEO Michael J. Arougheti sold 136,516 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, August 19th. The shares were sold at an average price of $182.74, for a total transaction of $24,946,933.84. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 311,728 shares in the company, valued at $56,965,174.72. This trade represents a 30.46% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Over the last 90 days, insiders sold 2,533,796 shares of company stock valued at $453,825,507. Company insiders own 36.86% of the companys stock.

Ares Management Stock Down 1.3%

ARES stock opened at $146.53 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $47.87 billion, a PE ratio of 84.70, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.19 and a beta of 1.45. Ares Management Corporation has a 52 week low of $110.63 and a 52 week high of $200.49. The company has a quick ratio of 1.08, a current ratio of 1.08 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $158.36 and a 200 day moving average of $168.83.

Ares Management (NYSE:ARES  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, October 31st. The asset manager reported $1.19 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.14 by $0.05. The business had revenue of $1.66 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.03 billion. Ares Management had a net margin of 9.47% and a return on equity of 15.81%. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $0.55 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts forecast that Ares Management Corporation will post 5.28 earnings per share for the current year.

Ares Management Cuts Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 17th will be issued a $0.8438 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 17th. This represents a $3.38 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.3%. Ares Managements dividend payout ratio is currently 192.27%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities research analysts have recently weighed in on ARES shares. Barclays lowered their price target on shares of Ares Management from $200.00 to $187.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of Ares Management in a research report on Tuesday. Oppenheimer set a $190.00 target price on Ares Management and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 4th. Raymond James Financial initiated coverage on shares of Ares Management in a research report on Monday, July 28th. They set a market perform rating for the company. Finally, Cfra Research raised shares of Ares Management to a moderate buy rating in a research report on Monday, August 4th. Thirteen investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Ares Management presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $187.46.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on Ares Management

About Ares Management

(Free Report)

Ares Management Corporation operates as an alternative asset manager in the United States, Europe, and Asia. The company's Tradable Credit Group segment manages various types of investment funds, such as commingled and separately managed accounts for institutional investors, and publicly traded vehicles and sub-advised funds for retail investors in the tradable and non-investment grade corporate credit markets.

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Envestnet Asset Management Inc. raised its position in MDU Resources Group, Inc. (NYSE:MDU  Free Report) by 157.0% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 212,933 shares of the utilities providers stock after purchasing an additional 130,073 shares during the period. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. owned 0.10% of MDU Resources Group worth $3,550,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in MDU. Cerity Partners LLC lifted its stake in shares of MDU Resources Group by 182.0% in the first quarter. Cerity Partners LLC now owns 143,467 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $2,426,000 after buying an additional 92,587 shares in the last quarter. CWM LLC raised its holdings in MDU Resources Group by 4.5% in the 1st quarter. CWM LLC now owns 41,080 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $695,000 after acquiring an additional 1,779 shares during the last quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. lifted its stake in MDU Resources Group by 217.5% in the 1st quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 480,353 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $8,123,000 after purchasing an additional 329,064 shares in the last quarter. Oak Thistle LLC purchased a new position in MDU Resources Group during the first quarter worth approximately $261,000. Finally, Avantax Advisory Services Inc. raised its holdings in shares of MDU Resources Group by 74.0% during the 1st quarter. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. now owns 33,112 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $560,000 after acquiring an additional 14,087 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 71.44% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities research analysts recently issued reports on the stock. Jefferies Financial Group raised their price objective on shares of MDU Resources Group to $22.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Cowen began coverage on shares of MDU Resources Group in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of MDU Resources Group from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report on Saturday, August 9th. Zacks Research lowered MDU Resources Group from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 14th. Finally, TD Cowen initiated coverage on MDU Resources Group in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. They issued a hold rating and a $20.00 target price on the stock. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, MDU Resources Group presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $21.00.

MDU Resources Group Trading Down 0.1%

NYSE MDU opened at $20.61 on Friday. MDU Resources Group, Inc. has a one year low of $15.04 and a one year high of $21.49. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $18.49 and a 200-day simple moving average of $17.39. The firm has a market cap of $4.21 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.44, a PEG ratio of 3.12 and a beta of 0.73. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.75, a quick ratio of 0.71 and a current ratio of 0.74.

MDU Resources Group (NYSE:MDU  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The utilities provider reported $0.09 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.07 by $0.02. MDU Resources Group had a net margin of 8.25% and a return on equity of 8.29%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 8.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $0.32 EPS. MDU Resources Group has set its FY 2025 guidance at 0.900-0.950 EPS. Equities research analysts anticipate that MDU Resources Group, Inc. will post 0.94 EPS for the current fiscal year.

MDU Resources Group Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 1st. Shareholders of record on Thursday, December 11th will be given a $0.14 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, December 11th. This represents a $0.56 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.7%. MDU Resources Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 67.47%.

Insider Transactions at MDU Resources Group

In other news, CFO Jason L. Vollmer purchased 5,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, September 8th. The stock was bought at an average price of $16.07 per share, for a total transaction of $80,350.00. Following the acquisition, the chief financial officer directly owned 344,548 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,536,886.36. The trade was a 1.47% increase in their position. The purchase was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. 0.94% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

MDU Resources Group Company Profile

(Free Report)

MDU Resources Group, Inc engages in the regulated energy delivery, and construction materials and services businesses in the United States. It operates through four segments: Electric, Natural Gas Distribution, Pipeline, and Construction Services. The Electric segment generates, transmits, and distributes electricity for residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal customers in Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming; and operates 3,400 miles of transmission lines, 4,800 miles of distribution lines, and 82 transmission and 298 distribution substations.

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Middle Island Resources Limited (ASX:MDI  Get Free Report) insider Daniel Raihani purchased 668,896 shares of Middle Island Resources stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, November 11th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of A$0.03 per share, with a total value of A$22,742.46.

Daniel Raihani also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Wednesday, September 3rd, Daniel Raihani acquired 9,000,000 shares of Middle Island Resources stock. The stock was acquired at an average price of A$0.04 per share, with a total value of A$315,000.00.

On Tuesday, September 2nd, Daniel Raihani acquired 3,500,000 shares of Middle Island Resources stock. The shares were bought at an average price of A$0.04 per share, with a total value of A$122,500.00.

Middle Island Resources Stock Performance

The company has a market cap of $4.10 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -1.97 and a beta of 0.27.

About Middle Island Resources

Middle Island Resources Limited engages in the identification, acquisition, and exploration of mineral assets in Australia. It explores for copper and gold. The company holds a 100% interest in the Barkly project that comprises 16 exploration licenses covering an area of approximately 6,918 square kilometers located in the Barkly region of the Northern Territory.

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Olympiad Research LP cut its holdings in Invesco Ltd. (NYSE:IVZ  Free Report) by 28.1% in the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 12,892 shares of the asset managers stock after selling 5,028 shares during the period. Olympiad Research LPs holdings in Invesco were worth $203,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Federated Hermes Inc. raised its position in shares of Invesco by 186.6% during the first quarter. Federated Hermes Inc. now owns 1,969 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $30,000 after buying an additional 1,282 shares during the last quarter. SVB Wealth LLC acquired a new stake in Invesco during the first quarter worth $32,000. IFP Advisors Inc lifted its holdings in shares of Invesco by 55.7% during the 2nd quarter. IFP Advisors Inc now owns 2,127 shares of the asset managers stock worth $34,000 after acquiring an additional 761 shares during the period. Summit Securities Group LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Invesco during the 1st quarter valued at about $41,000. Finally, UMB Bank n.a. raised its position in Invesco by 45.8% in the second quarter. UMB Bank n.a. now owns 2,623 shares of the asset managers stock worth $41,000 after purchasing an additional 824 shares in the last quarter. 66.09% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Invesco news, Director Douglas J. Sharp sold 160,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, October 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $23.56, for a total transaction of $3,769,600.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 192 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,523.52. This trade represents a 99.88% 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, Director Stephanie Butcher sold 103,192 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, September 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $22.12, for a total transaction of $2,282,607.04. Following the completion of the sale, the director owned 29,855 shares of the companys stock, valued at $660,392.60. The trade was a 77.56% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Corporate insiders own 1.21% of the companys stock.

Invesco Stock Performance

NYSE:IVZ opened at $23.51 on Friday. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $23.12 and a 200 day simple moving average of $19.49. The stock has a market cap of $10.49 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.99, a PEG ratio of 0.85 and a beta of 1.72. Invesco Ltd. has a 1-year low of $11.60 and a 1-year high of $24.75. The company has a current ratio of 1.30, a quick ratio of 1.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.67.

Invesco (NYSE:IVZ  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The asset manager reported $0.61 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.44 by $0.17. The firm had revenue of $1.19 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.17 billion. Invesco had a return on equity of 8.52% and a net margin of 14.15%.The companys revenue was up 7.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.44 EPS. Research analysts anticipate that Invesco Ltd. will post 1.87 earnings per share for the current year.

Invesco Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 2nd. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be given a $0.21 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 14th. This represents a $0.84 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.6%. Invescos dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 57.14%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research analysts have issued reports on IVZ shares. The Goldman Sachs Group increased their price objective on Invesco from $25.50 to $26.50 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Fundamental Research set a $27.00 price objective on shares of Invesco in a research report on Friday, October 31st. Bank of America raised their price target on shares of Invesco from $23.00 to $25.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, October 2nd. BMO Capital Markets reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Invesco in a report on Friday, October 24th. Finally, Zacks Research upgraded Invesco from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have issued a Buy rating and eleven have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Invesco has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $23.70.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on IVZ

Invesco Company Profile

(Free Report)

Invesco Ltd. is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm provides its services to retail clients, institutional clients, high-net worth clients, public entities, corporations, unions, non-profit organizations, endowments, foundations, pension funds, financial institutions, and sovereign wealth funds.

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Outokumpu (OTCMKTS:OUTKY  Get Free Report) has been assigned an average rating of Reduce from the six analysts that are currently covering the stock, MarketBeat reports. Three analysts have rated the stock with a sell recommendation, two have assigned a hold recommendation and one has assigned a buy recommendation to the company.

OUTKY has been the subject of several research reports. Zacks Research lowered shares of Outokumpu from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Thursday. Danske upgraded shares of Outokumpu to a buy rating in a report on Friday, October 3rd. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft downgraded Outokumpu from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th.

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View Our Latest Stock Analysis on OUTKY

Outokumpu Price Performance

Shares of OUTKY stock traded up $0.03 during mid-day trading on Friday, hitting $2.21. 459 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,086. Outokumpu has a twelve month low of $1.37 and a twelve month high of $2.41. The firm has a market cap of $2.09 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -18.42 and a beta of 0.71. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $2.20 and its 200-day simple moving average is $2.02. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15, a quick ratio of 0.63 and a current ratio of 1.76.

Outokumpu (OTCMKTS:OUTKY  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The company reported ($0.04) earnings per share for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $1.52 billion during the quarter. Outokumpu had a negative net margin of 1.83% and a negative return on equity of 2.90%. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Outokumpu will post 0.07 earnings per share for the current year.

Outokumpu Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Thursday, November 6th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, October 16th were issued a dividend of $0.0343 per share. This represents a yield of 297.0%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, October 15th. Outokumpus payout ratio is presently -33.33%.

Outokumpu Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Outokumpu Oyj produces and sells various stainless steel products in Finland, other European countries, North America, the Asia-Pacific, and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Europe, Americas, and Ferrochrome. It offers cold rolled coils, strips, and sheets; hot rolled coils, strips, and plates; quarto plates; precision strips; and specialized components, such as welded stainless-steel I-beams, H-beams, hollow-section tubes, bent profiles, structural sections, hardened and customized press plates, suction roll shells, and blancs and disks.

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Par Pacific (NYSE:PARR  Free Report) had its price target upped by Piper Sandler from $44.00 to $62.00 in a report released on Friday morning,Benzinga reports. The firm currently has an overweight rating on the stock.

Other analysts have also recently issued research reports about the stock. Mizuho increased their price target on shares of Par Pacific from $40.00 to $45.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday. TD Cowen cut their target price on shares of Par Pacific from $35.00 to $33.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, August 7th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c-) rating on shares of Par Pacific in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Raymond James Financial restated an outperform rating and issued a $45.00 price objective (up previously from $38.00) on shares of Par Pacific in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Finally, UBS Group lifted their target price on Par Pacific from $37.00 to $40.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 5th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have assigned a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Par Pacific presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $41.57.

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Par Pacific Stock Up 6.5%

PARR traded up $2.67 on Friday, hitting $43.80. 831,524 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,382,021. The stocks fifty day moving average is $37.25 and its 200-day moving average is $30.42. Par Pacific has a 12 month low of $11.86 and a 12 month high of $44.52. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.97, a quick ratio of 0.56 and a current ratio of 1.42. The company has a market cap of $2.20 billion, a PE ratio of -156.43 and a beta of 1.74.

Par Pacific (NYSE:PARR  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, November 4th. The company reported $5.95 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.98 by $3.97. The company had revenue of $2.01 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.72 billion. Par Pacific had a negative return on equity of 1.79% and a negative net margin of 0.25%.The businesss revenue was down 6.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted ($0.10) EPS. Equities research analysts predict that Par Pacific will post 0.15 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Insider Activity at Par Pacific

In related news, insider Shawn David Flores sold 8,062 shares of Par Pacific stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $34.50, for a total transaction of $278,139.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider directly owned 39,089 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,348,570.50. This trade represents a 17.10% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, EVP Richard Creamer sold 15,848 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $41.22, for a total value of $653,254.56. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president owned 54,654 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,252,837.88. This trade represents a 22.48% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders have sold 36,638 shares of company stock valued at $1,371,866 in the last 90 days. Corporate insiders own 4.40% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Par Pacific

A number of hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Farther Finance Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in Par Pacific by 175.9% in the 2nd quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 1,181 shares of the companys stock valued at $31,000 after purchasing an additional 753 shares during the period. Signaturefd LLC raised its position in shares of Par Pacific by 70.2% in the first quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 2,391 shares of the companys stock valued at $34,000 after buying an additional 986 shares in the last quarter. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd bought a new stake in shares of Par Pacific in the first quarter valued at approximately $35,000. Parallel Advisors LLC grew its position in Par Pacific by 232.9% during the second quarter. Parallel Advisors LLC now owns 1,325 shares of the companys stock worth $35,000 after buying an additional 927 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nisa Investment Advisors LLC increased its stake in Par Pacific by 157.4% during the 2nd quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC now owns 1,596 shares of the companys stock worth $42,000 after acquiring an additional 976 shares during the period. 92.15% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

About Par Pacific

(Get Free Report)

Par Pacific Holdings, Inc owns and operates energy and infrastructure businesses. The company operates through Refining, Retail, and Logistics segments. The Refining segment owns and operates refineries that produce gasoline, distillate, asphalt, and other products primarily for consumption in Kapolei, Hawaii, Newcastle, Wyoming, Tacoma, Washington, and Billings, Montana.

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Shares of Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras (NYSE:PBR  Get Free Report) have been given an average recommendation of Moderate Buy by the seven ratings firms that are presently covering the company, Marketbeat reports. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation, three have issued a buy recommendation and one has assigned a strong buy recommendation to the company. The average 1-year target price among brokers that have covered the stock in the last year is $14.90.

Several equities analysts have commented on the stock. Zacks Research downgraded shares of Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, September 18th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c-) rating on shares of Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. UBS Group cut their price target on Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras from $15.80 to $14.40 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Friday, August 22nd. Finally, Wall Street Zen lowered Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Sunday, November 9th.

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Check Out Our Latest Report on PBR

Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras Stock Up 1.0%

Shares of PBR opened at $13.17 on Friday. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $12.36 and its 200-day simple moving average is $12.28. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.76, a quick ratio of 0.47 and a current ratio of 0.72. Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras has a 1 year low of $11.03 and a 1 year high of $15.10. The stock has a market capitalization of $84.84 billion, a PE ratio of 6.15 and a beta of 0.83.

Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras (NYSE:PBR  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The oil and gas exploration company reported $0.82 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.79 by $0.03. Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras had a net margin of 15.99% and a return on equity of 34.11%. The firm had revenue of $23.48 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $125.50 billion. Analysts forecast that Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras will post 2.14 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a special dividend, which will be paid on Friday, February 27th. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 26th will be issued a $0.1773 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 26th. Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobrass dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 47.22%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of PBR. GQG Partners LLC grew its stake in Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras by 8.0% during the 1st quarter. GQG Partners LLC now owns 256,098,882 shares of the oil and gas exploration companys stock worth $3,672,458,000 after buying an additional 18,862,848 shares during the last quarter. Capital International Investors boosted its holdings in shares of Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras by 14.7% in the third quarter. Capital International Investors now owns 20,211,745 shares of the oil and gas exploration companys stock valued at $255,881,000 after acquiring an additional 2,592,536 shares during the period. ARGA Investment Management LP boosted its holdings in shares of Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras by 70.4% in the third quarter. ARGA Investment Management LP now owns 18,808,705 shares of the oil and gas exploration companys stock valued at $238,118,000 after acquiring an additional 7,772,595 shares during the period. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC purchased a new position in shares of Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras during the second quarter worth approximately $148,086,000. Finally, Mondrian Investment Partners LTD acquired a new position in shares of Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras in the 3rd quarter valued at $140,433,000.

About Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras

(Get Free Report)

Petroleo Brasileiro SA  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.

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PNC Financial Services Group Inc. lessened its stake in shares of Aflac Incorporated (NYSE:AFL  Free Report) by 5.5% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 223,212 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 12,994 shares during the quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc.s holdings in Aflac were worth $23,540,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC boosted its position in Aflac by 1.1% during the first quarter. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC now owns 5,307,681 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $590,161,000 after purchasing an additional 56,776 shares during the period. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Aflac by 10.8% in the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 3,575,054 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $397,510,000 after buying an additional 349,787 shares during the last quarter. Guinness Asset Management LTD grew its stake in Aflac by 19.4% in the 2nd quarter. Guinness Asset Management LTD now owns 2,372,484 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $250,187,000 after buying an additional 385,546 shares during the last quarter. Deutsche Bank AG raised its holdings in Aflac by 0.8% in the 1st quarter. Deutsche Bank AG now owns 1,730,739 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $192,441,000 after acquiring an additional 13,575 shares during the period. Finally, Nordea Investment Management AB lifted its position in Aflac by 4.3% during the 2nd quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 1,703,397 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $178,056,000 after acquiring an additional 70,244 shares during the last quarter. 67.44% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts have recently commented on AFL shares. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Aflac in a research note on Thursday. Piper Sandler set a $125.00 price target on Aflac and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, October 7th. Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on shares of Aflac from $108.00 to $113.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Monday, August 18th. Evercore ISI upped their target price on shares of Aflac from $110.00 to $111.00 and gave the company an underperform rating in a research note on Friday, November 7th. Finally, Barclays restated an underweight rating and issued a $104.00 price target (up from $102.00) on shares of Aflac in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, six have given a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $110.50.

Aflac Stock Down 0.6%

AFL opened at $114.27 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $59.89 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.91, a P/E/G ratio of 2.93 and a beta of 0.83. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33, a current ratio of 0.11 and a quick ratio of 0.11. The firms fifty day moving average price is $109.71 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $105.95. Aflac Incorporated has a fifty-two week low of $96.95 and a fifty-two week high of $115.84.

Aflac (NYSE:AFL  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Monday, February 27th. The financial services provider reported $1.07 EPS for the quarter. Aflac had a net margin of 15.32% and a return on equity of 15.08%. The company had revenue of $5.91 billion during the quarter. On average, analysts anticipate that Aflac Incorporated will post 6.88 EPS for the current year.

Aflac Increases Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 2nd. Investors of record on Wednesday, February 18th will be paid a $0.61 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, February 18th. This represents a $2.44 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.1%. This is a positive change from Aflacs previous quarterly dividend of $0.58. Aflacs payout ratio is presently 30.29%.

Aflac declared that its board has initiated a share repurchase plan on Tuesday, August 12th that permits the company to repurchase 100,000,000 shares. This repurchase authorization permits the financial services provider to reacquire shares of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase plans are usually a sign that the companys management believes its stock is undervalued.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, EVP Frederic Jean Guy Simard sold 1,722 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $112.50, for a total transaction of $193,725.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president owned 1,364 shares in the company, valued at $153,450. This trade represents a 55.80% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, Director Joseph L. Moskowitz sold 1,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $114.00, for a total transaction of $114,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 23,615 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,692,110. This trade represents a 4.06% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Corporate insiders own 0.80% of the companys stock.

Aflac 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.

Further Reading

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).

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Less than 30 participants gathered for the anti-corruption protest announced the day before on the Independence Square (Maidan Nezalezhnosti) in the center of Kyiv.

As the correspondent of Interfax-Ukraine stated, the participants of the action gathered after 12:00 on Saturday on the odd side of Khreshchatyk from the side of the Independence Monument.

Approximately half of them are holding cardboards with the inscriptions "There is no more trust, you are stealing from the people and the Armed Forces of Ukraine," "No corruption in Ukraine and its instigators" and others, as well as with the demand to restore the disbanded company of Yuriy Kasianov's strike drone complexes.

The action is peaceful, there are no more law enforcement officers on the central square of the capital than usual.

In Kyiv, it is 11 degrees Celsius, cloudy, no precipitation.

As reported, several public activists, including Kasianov, called for participation in an anti-corruption protest on Independence Square in the center of Kyiv on Saturday. Most public figures ignored this call, and there was also a widespread disapproval of such an initiative. Oleh Tsariov, a MP of the Verkhovna Rada of the IV-VII convocations who was deprived of Ukrainian citizenship and is currently hiding in Russia, called for taking to the Maidan in Kyiv, and he was supported by a number of Russian propagandists.

Supporters of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on social networks accused opposition political forces of calling for protests during the war, while these political forces and their representatives themselves did not make such calls.
Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey grew its holdings in shares of Otis Worldwide Corporation (NYSE:OTIS  Free Report) by 3.0% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 59,979 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 1,726 shares during the quarter. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jerseys holdings in Otis Worldwide were worth $5,939,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Cheviot Value Management LLC bought a new position in Otis Worldwide during the 1st quarter worth approximately $31,000. Chilton Capital Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Otis Worldwide during the second quarter valued at approximately $31,000. Flaharty Asset Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Otis Worldwide in the first quarter worth approximately $38,000. Toth Financial Advisory Corp purchased a new position in shares of Otis Worldwide in the second quarter worth $45,000. Finally, Ransom Advisory Ltd bought a new stake in Otis Worldwide during the 1st quarter valued at $48,000. Institutional investors own 88.03% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

OTIS has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. Wolfe Research set a $109.00 target price on shares of Otis Worldwide and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Zacks Research raised shares of Otis Worldwide from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 14th. Barclays lifted their price objective on Otis Worldwide from $90.00 to $92.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Royal Bank Of Canada dropped their target price on shares of Otis Worldwide from $108.00 to $105.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, July 28th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on Otis Worldwide from $105.00 to $111.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 15th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $103.71.

Insider Activity

In other news, CAO Michael Patrick Ryan sold 3,028 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $91.69, for a total value of $277,637.32. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer owned 2,628 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $240,961.32. The trade was a 53.54% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. 0.23% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Otis Worldwide Stock Performance

Shares of Otis Worldwide stock opened at $88.81 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $34.61 billion, a P/E ratio of 26.20, a P/E/G ratio of 3.45 and a beta of 1.00. The stocks fifty day moving average is $90.56 and its 200 day moving average is $92.68. Otis Worldwide Corporation has a one year low of $84.25 and a one year high of $106.83.

Otis Worldwide (NYSE:OTIS  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The company reported $1.05 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.00 by $0.05. The business had revenue of $3.69 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.65 billion. Otis Worldwide had a negative return on equity of 30.67% and a net margin of 9.41%.Otis Worldwides revenue for the quarter was up 4.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.96 earnings per share. Otis Worldwide has set its FY 2025 guidance at 4.040-4.080 EPS. Analysts predict that Otis Worldwide Corporation will post 4.04 EPS for the current year.

Otis Worldwide Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 5th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be issued a dividend of $0.42 per share. This represents a $1.68 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. Otis Worldwides dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 49.56%.

About Otis Worldwide

(Free Report)

Otis Worldwide Corporation engages in manufacturing, installation, and servicing of elevators and escalators in the United States, China, and internationally. The company operates in two segments, New Equipment and Service. The New Equipment segment designs, manufactures, sells, and installs a range of passenger and freight elevators, as well as escalators and moving walkways for residential and commercial buildings, and infrastructure projects.

Further Reading

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Booking, Expedia Group, Travelers Companies, Trip.com Group, MakeMyTrip, OUTFRONT Media, and TripAdvisor are the seven Travel stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Travel stocks are shares of publicly traded companies whose revenue depends on people travelling  for example airlines, hotels and resorts, cruise lines, car-rental firms, online travel agencies, tour operators and travel insurers. Investors treat them as cyclical, often volatile plays tied to consumer confidence, seasonality, fuel and labor costs, geopolitics and health crises, and therefore focus on metrics like bookings, load factors and occupancy rates when evaluating them. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Travel stocks within the last several days.

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Booking (BKNG)

Booking Holdings Inc, formerly The Priceline Group Inc., is a provider of travel and restaurant online reservation and related services. The Company, through its online travel companies (OTCs), connects consumers wishing to make travel reservations with providers of travel services across the world. It offers consumers an array of accommodation reservations (including hotels, bed and breakfasts, hostels, apartments, vacation rentals and other properties) through its Booking.com, priceline.com and agoda.com brands.

Expedia Group (EXPE)

Expedia Group, Inc. operates as an online travel company in the United States and internationally. The company operates through B2C, B2B, and trivago segments. Its B2C segment includes Brand Expedia, a full-service online travel brand offers various travel products and services; Hotels.com for lodging accommodations; Vrbo, an online marketplace for the alternative accommodations; Orbitz, Travelocity, Wotif Group, ebookers, CheapTickets, Hotwire.com and CarRentals.com.

Read Our Latest Research Report on EXPE

Travelers Companies (TRV)

The Travelers Companies, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides a range of commercial and personal property, and casualty insurance products and services to businesses, government units, associations, and individuals in the United States and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Business Insurance, Bond & Specialty Insurance, and Personal Insurance.

Read Our Latest Research Report on TRV

Trip.com Group (TCOM)

Trip.com Group Limited, through its subsidiaries, operates as a travel service provider for accommodation reservation, transportation ticketing, packaged tours and in-destination, corporate travel management, and other travel-related services in China and internationally. The company acts as an agent for hotel-related transactions and selling air tickets, as well as provides train, long-distance bus, and ferry tickets; travel insurance products, such as flight delay, air accident, and baggage loss coverage; and air-ticket delivery, online check-in and seat selection, express security screening, real-time flight status tracker, and airport VIP lounge services.

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MakeMyTrip (MMYT)

MakeMyTrip Limited, an online travel company, sells travel products and solutions in India, the United States, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, Peru, Colombia, Vietnam, and Indonesia. The company operates through three segments: Air Ticketing, Hotels and Packages, and Bus Ticketing.

Read Our Latest Research Report on MMYT

OUTFRONT Media (OUT)

OUTFRONT Media, Inc. leases advertising space on out-of-home advertising structures and sites. Its inventory consists of billboard displays, which are primarily located on the most heavily traveled highways & roadways, and transit advertising displays operated under exclusive multi-year contracts with municipalities in large cities across the U.S.

Read Our Latest Research Report on OUT

TripAdvisor (TRIP)

TripAdvisor, Inc. operates as an online travel company, primarily engages in the provision of travel guidance products and services worldwide. The company operates in three segments: Brand Tripadvisor, Viator, and TheFork. The Brand Tripadvisor segment offers travel guidance platforms for travelers to discover, generate, and share authentic user-generated content in the form of ratings and reviews for destinations, points-of-interest, experiences, accommodations, restaurants, and cruises.

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Featured Articles
Janus Henderson Group (NYSE:JHG  Get Free Report) and Schroders (OTCMKTS:SHNWF  Get Free Report) are both mid-cap finance companies, but which is the superior business? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their dividends, earnings, institutional ownership, risk, profitability, valuation and analyst recommendations.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of current recommendations for Janus Henderson Group and Schroders, as reported by MarketBeat.

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Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Janus Henderson Group 0 2 8 2 3.00 Schroders 1 1 3 0 2.40

Janus Henderson Group currently has a consensus price target of $48.11, suggesting a potential upside of 11.20%. Given Janus Henderson Groups stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, research analysts clearly believe Janus Henderson Group is more favorable than Schroders.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

Volatility and Risk

87.9% of Janus Henderson Group shares are held by institutional investors. 19.6% of Janus Henderson Group shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

Janus Henderson Group has a beta of 1.59, indicating that its stock price is 59% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Schroders has a beta of 1.26, indicating that its stock price is 26% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Profitability

This table compares Janus Henderson Group and Schroders net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Janus Henderson Group 16.06% 12.01% 7.96% Schroders N/A N/A N/A

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares Janus Henderson Group and Schroderss top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Janus Henderson Group $2.66 billion 2.51 $408.90 million $3.41 12.69 Schroders $3.80 billion 2.21 $532.88 million N/A N/A

Schroders has higher revenue and earnings than Janus Henderson Group.

Summary

Janus Henderson Group beats Schroders on 11 of the 13 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Janus Henderson Group

(Get Free Report)

Janus Henderson Group plc is an asset management holding entity. Through its subsidiaries, the firm provides services to institutional, retail clients, and high net worth clients. It manages separate client-focused equity and fixed income portfolios. The firm also manages equity, fixed income, and balanced mutual funds for its clients. It invests in public equity and fixed income markets, as well as invests in real estate and private equity. Janus Henderson Group plc was founded in 1934 and is based in London, United Kingdom with additional offices in Jersey, United Kingdom and Sydney, Australia.

About Schroders

(Get Free Report)

Schroders plc is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm also provides advisory and consultancy services. It provides its services to financial institutions, high net worth clients, large corporate, local authority, charitable entities, individuals, pension plans, government funds, insurance companies, and endowments. The firm launches and manages equity mutual funds and manages fixed income mutual funds for its clients. It also manages hedge for its clients. The firm invests in the public equity, fixed income, and alternative investment markets across the globe. The firms alternative investments include real estate markets, emerging market debt, commodities and agriculture funds, funds of hedge funds and private equity funds of funds. It conducts an in-house research to make its investments. The company was formerly known as New Schroders plc and changed its name to Schroders plc in April 2000. Schroders plc was founded on 1804 and is headquartered in London, United Kingdom.

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Sculati Wealth Management LLC cut its position in shares of Visa Inc. (NYSE:V  Free Report) by 2.1% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 8,294 shares of the credit-card processors stock after selling 174 shares during the period. Visa makes up about 1.1% of Sculati Wealth Management LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 26th biggest holding. Sculati Wealth Management LLCs holdings in Visa were worth $2,945,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Keystone Global Partners LLC purchased a new position in shares of Visa in the first quarter valued at $26,000. Family Legacy Financial Solutions LLC purchased a new stake in Visa during the second quarter valued at $28,000. Harbor Asset Planning Inc. bought a new position in Visa during the second quarter valued at $29,000. Cranbrook Wealth Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Visa by 82.0% in the 2nd quarter. Cranbrook Wealth Management LLC now owns 91 shares of the credit-card processors stock worth $32,000 after buying an additional 41 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Hoese & Co LLP bought a new stake in shares of Visa in the 2nd quarter worth about $36,000. Institutional investors own 82.15% of the companys stock.

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Visa Stock Performance

V stock opened at $329.89 on Friday. Visa Inc. has a twelve month low of $299.00 and a twelve month high of $375.51. The firm has a market cap of $604.63 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 32.31, a PEG ratio of 2.03 and a beta of 0.87. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $342.16 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $348.64. The company has a quick ratio of 1.08, a current ratio of 1.08 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.53.

Visa Increases Dividend

Visa ( NYSE:V Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The credit-card processor reported $2.98 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.97 by $0.01. The firm had revenue of $10.72 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $10.60 billion. Visa had a net margin of 50.15% and a return on equity of 60.31%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 11.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $2.71 earnings per share. Analysts predict that Visa Inc. will post 11.3 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, November 12th will be paid a dividend of $0.67 per share. This is a boost from Visas previous quarterly dividend of $0.59. This represents a $2.68 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, November 12th. Visas payout ratio is presently 26.25%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

V has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. KeyCorp reaffirmed an overweight rating and issued a $405.00 price target on shares of Visa in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Robert W. Baird set a $425.00 price objective on Visa in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Citigroup raised Visa to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, October 23rd. UBS Group set a $425.00 price objective on shares of Visa and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Finally, Barclays reissued an overweight rating and issued a $408.00 target price (up previously from $396.00) on shares of Visa in a research note on Thursday, July 31st. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seventeen have issued a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Visa presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $400.00.

Read Our Latest Research Report on Visa

Insider Activity at Visa

In related news, CEO Ryan Mcinerney sold 10,485 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $341.00, for a total value of $3,575,385.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 537 shares of the companys stock, valued at $183,117. This represents a 95.13% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, General Counsel Julie B. Rottenberg sold 2,027 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, August 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $344.02, for a total value of $697,328.54. Following the transaction, the general counsel owned 11,925 shares in the company, valued at $4,102,438.50. The trade was a 14.53% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Over the last quarter, insiders sold 23,897 shares of company stock worth $8,164,561. Company insiders own 0.13% of the companys stock.

About Visa

(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.

Further Reading

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).

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Dividends

Secom pays an annual dividend of $0.11 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.3%. Secom pays out 26.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, BUSINESS SVCS companies pay a dividend yield of 1.6% and pay out 52.6% of their earnings in the form of a dividend.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

63.3% of shares of all BUSINESS SVCS companies are held by institutional investors. 14.9% of shares of all BUSINESS SVCS companies are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, hedge funds and endowments believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

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Profitability

This table compares Secom and its rivals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Secom N/A N/A N/A Secom Competitors 2.26% -161.10% 1.63%

Volatility & Risk

Earnings and Valuation

Secom has a beta of 0.41, indicating that its stock price is 59% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Secoms rivals have a beta of 4.22, indicating that their average stock price is 322% more volatile than the S&P 500.

This table compares Secom and its rivals gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Secom $7.88 billion $713.52 million 20.19 Secom Competitors $4.58 billion $168.23 million 39.70

Secom has higher revenue and earnings than its rivals. Secom is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its rivals, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry.

Summary

Secom rivals beat Secom on 7 of the 11 factors compared.

About Secom

(Get Free Report)

SECOM CO., LTD., together with its subsidiaries, provides security services in Japan and internationally. The company operates through Security Services, Fire Protection Services, Medical Services, Insurance Services, Geospatial Information Services, BPO and ICT Services, and Other Services. The Security Services segment offers static guard, armored car, merchandise, and other services, as well as online security systems. The Fire Protection Services segment provides fire alarm systems, fire extinguishing systems, and maintenance services to office buildings, production facilities, tunnels, cultural properties, ships, and residences. The Medical Services segment offers home nursing, pharmaceutical dispensing, home delivery services, health and preventative care services, and personal and outpatient care services; and cloud-based medical reporting services and SECOM LINKus application. This segment also operates the general hospital and residences for seniors; and sells medical equipment and pharmaceuticals. The Insurance Services Segment provides fire insurance, automobile insurance, and cancer treatment insurance services. The Geospatial Information Services segment offers geospatial information services to public-sector entities, such as national and local governments; private sector customers; and overseas government agencies. The BPO and ICT Services segment provides contact centers and back office support services, data center, disaster preparedness, information security, and cloud-based services, as well as SaaS solutions. The Other Services segment offers real estate leasing, construction, and installation services. The company was incorporated in 1962 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

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Security Financial Services INC. grew its position in Accenture PLC (NYSE:ACN  Free Report) by 10.2% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 2,992 shares of the information technology services providers stock after acquiring an additional 278 shares during the quarter. Security Financial Services INC.s holdings in Accenture were worth $894,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other large investors have also recently modified their holdings of ACN. Viawealth LLC grew its stake in shares of Accenture by 2.6% during the first quarter. Viawealth LLC now owns 1,307 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $408,000 after buying an additional 33 shares during the last quarter. Aprio Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Accenture by 2.1% in the first quarter. Aprio Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,640 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $512,000 after purchasing an additional 33 shares during the last quarter. First National Advisers LLC lifted its holdings in Accenture by 0.4% during the 1st quarter. First National Advisers LLC now owns 9,420 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $2,939,000 after buying an additional 34 shares in the last quarter. TCTC Holdings LLC grew its stake in Accenture by 14.5% in the 1st quarter. TCTC Holdings LLC now owns 269 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $84,000 after acquiring an additional 34 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Texas Bank & Trust Co raised its stake in shares of Accenture by 0.4% during the first quarter. Texas Bank & Trust Co now owns 8,181 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $2,553,000 after acquiring an additional 35 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 75.14% of the companys stock.

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Accenture Stock Down 0.9%

NYSE:ACN opened at $245.29 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $161.52 billion, a PE ratio of 20.19, a P/E/G ratio of 2.16 and a beta of 1.28. The company has a current ratio of 1.42, a quick ratio of 1.42 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.16. Accenture PLC has a twelve month low of $229.40 and a twelve month high of $398.35. The companys 50 day moving average is $244.66 and its two-hundred day moving average is $273.22.

Accenture Increases Dividend

Accenture ( NYSE:ACN Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, September 25th. The information technology services provider reported $3.03 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.98 by $0.05. Accenture had a return on equity of 26.45% and a net margin of 11.02%.The company had revenue of $17.60 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $17.34 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $2.66 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was up 7.3% on a year-over-year basis. Accenture has set its FY 2026 guidance at 13.190-13.570 EPS. Q1 2026 guidance at EPS. Analysts anticipate that Accenture PLC will post 12.73 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Investors of record on Friday, October 10th were issued a $1.63 dividend. This is a boost from Accentures previous quarterly dividend of $1.48. This represents a $6.52 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 10th. Accentures payout ratio is 53.66%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other news, insider Manish Sharma sold 6,902 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, October 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $250.01, for a total transaction of $1,725,569.02. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider directly owned 1,860 shares in the company, valued at approximately $465,018.60. This represents a 78.77% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, CEO Julie Spellman Sweet sold 9,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, October 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $249.57, for a total transaction of $2,246,130.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 23,516 shares in the company, valued at $5,868,888.12. The trade was a 27.68% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Over the last 90 days, insiders have sold 33,319 shares of company stock worth $8,335,225. 0.02% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research firms recently weighed in on ACN. TD Cowen decreased their price objective on Accenture from $313.00 to $295.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Friday, September 26th. Susquehanna lowered their price target on shares of Accenture from $330.00 to $270.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, September 18th. Guggenheim reduced their price objective on shares of Accenture from $305.00 to $285.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Friday, September 26th. Rothschild Redb downgraded Accenture from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, September 3rd. Finally, Morgan Stanley dropped their price objective on Accenture from $325.00 to $271.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, September 9th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fifteen have given a Buy rating, eleven have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $294.25.

Read Our Latest Analysis on Accenture

Accenture Profile

(Free Report)

Accenture plc, a professional services company, provides strategy and consulting, industry X, song, and technology and operation services worldwide. The company offers application services, including agile transformation, DevOps, application modernization, enterprise architecture, software and quality engineering, data management; intelligent automation comprising robotic process automation, natural language processing, and virtual agents; and application management services, as well as software engineering services; strategy and consulting services; data and analytics strategy, data discovery and augmentation, data management and beyond, data democratization, and industrialized solutions comprising turnkey analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions; metaverse; and sustainability services.

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Woodley Farra Manion Portfolio Management Inc. lessened its stake in shares of SPDR Bloomberg 1-3 Month T-Bill ETF (NYSEARCA:BIL  Free Report) by 0.8% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 78,492 shares of the companys stock after selling 658 shares during the quarter. Woodley Farra Manion Portfolio Management Inc.s holdings in SPDR Bloomberg 1-3 Month T-Bill ETF were worth $7,200,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of BIL. Western Pacific Wealth Management LP acquired a new stake in shares of SPDR Bloomberg 1-3 Month T-Bill ETF in the second quarter valued at about $38,000. MeadowBrook Investment Advisors LLC purchased a new position in SPDR Bloomberg 1-3 Month T-Bill ETF in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $43,000. Ameriflex Group Inc. grew its position in SPDR Bloomberg 1-3 Month T-Bill ETF by 205.1% in the second quarter. Ameriflex Group Inc. now owns 482 shares of the companys stock valued at $44,000 after acquiring an additional 324 shares in the last quarter. Bangor Savings Bank acquired a new stake in SPDR Bloomberg 1-3 Month T-Bill ETF in the second quarter valued at approximately $50,000. Finally, GHP Investment Advisors Inc. raised its stake in shares of SPDR Bloomberg 1-3 Month T-Bill ETF by 34.4% during the second quarter. GHP Investment Advisors Inc. now owns 586 shares of the companys stock valued at $54,000 after purchasing an additional 150 shares during the period.

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SPDR Bloomberg 1-3 Month T-Bill ETF Price Performance

NYSEARCA BIL opened at $91.60 on Friday. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $91.61 and its 200-day simple moving average is $91.60. SPDR Bloomberg 1-3 Month T-Bill ETF has a 52 week low of $91.29 and a 52 week high of $91.80.

About SPDR Bloomberg 1-3 Month T-Bill ETF

The SPDR Bloomberg 1-3 Month T-Bill ETF (BIL) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in investment grade fixed income. The fund tracks a market-weighted index of all publicly issued zero-coupon US Treasury bills with a maturity of at least 1 month, but less than 3 months. BIL was launched on May 25, 2007 and is managed by State Street.

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Sustainable Growth Advisers LP trimmed its stake in shares of MSCI Inc (NYSE:MSCI  Free Report) by 47.2% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 745 shares of the technology companys stock after selling 665 shares during the period. Sustainable Growth Advisers LPs holdings in MSCI were worth $430,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS boosted its stake in MSCI by 6.9% during the second quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 18,976 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $10,944,000 after buying an additional 1,218 shares during the last quarter. Security Financial Services INC. increased its position in MSCI by 23.9% in the second quarter. Security Financial Services INC. now owns 690 shares of the technology companys stock worth $398,000 after purchasing an additional 133 shares during the last quarter. Olympiad Research LP purchased a new stake in MSCI during the second quarter valued at $365,000. Advisors Capital Management LLC lifted its position in MSCI by 1.4% during the second quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLC now owns 10,581 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $6,103,000 after purchasing an additional 147 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Fiera Capital Corp grew its stake in shares of MSCI by 2.2% in the 2nd quarter. Fiera Capital Corp now owns 969,850 shares of the technology companys stock worth $559,351,000 after buying an additional 20,682 shares in the last quarter. 89.97% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several equities research analysts have recently issued reports on MSCI shares. Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b-) rating on shares of MSCI in a report on Thursday. Barclays boosted their target price on MSCI from $650.00 to $660.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th. UBS Group increased their price target on MSCI from $700.00 to $710.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Seaport Res Ptn raised MSCI to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 1st. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company lifted their target price on MSCI from $533.00 to $570.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, ten have issued a Buy rating and three have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $655.90.

MSCI Stock Performance

Shares of MSCI opened at $564.71 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $42.43 billion, a P/E ratio of 35.79, a P/E/G ratio of 2.76 and a beta of 1.34. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $564.47 and a two-hundred day moving average of $562.96. MSCI Inc has a one year low of $486.73 and a one year high of $642.45.

MSCI (NYSE:MSCI  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The technology company reported $4.47 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $4.37 by $0.10. The firm had revenue of $793.43 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $794.87 million. MSCI had a net margin of 40.03% and a negative return on equity of 110.94%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 9.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $3.86 EPS. Analysts predict that MSCI Inc will post 16.86 EPS for the current fiscal year.

MSCI Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 28th. Investors of record on Friday, November 14th will be given a dividend of $1.80 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. This represents a $7.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.3%. MSCIs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 45.63%.

MSCI announced that its Board of Directors has authorized a stock buyback program on Tuesday, October 28th that authorizes the company to buyback $3.00 billion in outstanding shares. This buyback authorization authorizes the technology company to buy up to 7.1% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock buyback programs are often an indication that the companys board of directors believes its shares are undervalued.

About MSCI

(Free Report)

MSCI Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides critical decision support tools and solutions for the investment community to manage investment processes worldwide. The Index segment provides indexes for use in various areas of the investment process, including indexed financial product, such as ETFs, mutual funds, annuities, futures, options, structured products, and over-the-counter derivatives; performance benchmarking; portfolio construction and rebalancing; and asset allocation, as well as licenses GICS and GICS Direct.

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Telstra Co. Limited (OTCMKTS:TLSYY  Get Free Report)s stock price passed above its fifty day moving average during trading on Friday . The stock has a fifty day moving average of $12.48 and traded as high as $12.65. Telstra shares last traded at $12.48, with a volume of 63,400 shares.

Telstra Stock Up 0.7%

The company has a fifty day moving average price of $12.48 and a 200-day moving average price of $12.48. The company has a quick ratio of 0.59, a current ratio of 0.63 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.49.

About Telstra

(Get Free Report)

Telstra Corporation Limited provides telecommunications and information services to businesses, governments, and individuals in Australia and internationally. It operates in four segments: Telstra Consumer and Small Business, Telstra Enterprise, Networks and IT, and Telstra InfraCo The company offers telecommunication, media and technology products and services in Australia using mobile and fixed network technologies, as well as operates call centers, retail stores, a dealership network, digital channels, distribution systems and Telstra Plus customer loyalty program.

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Westwood Holdings Group Inc. decreased its holdings in TXNM Energy, Inc. (NYSE:TXNM  Free Report) by 46.3% in the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 986,505 shares of the companys stock after selling 852,001 shares during the quarter. Westwood Holdings Group Inc.s holdings in TXNM Energy were worth $55,560,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of TXNM. Huntington National Bank raised its stake in shares of TXNM Energy by 1,307.0% during the 2nd quarter. Huntington National Bank now owns 605 shares of the companys stock worth $34,000 after buying an additional 562 shares during the period. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in TXNM Energy in the 1st quarter worth $43,000. BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A S acquired a new position in TXNM Energy during the first quarter worth $54,000. Twin Tree Management LP acquired a new position in TXNM Energy during the first quarter worth $58,000. Finally, MorganRosel Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in TXNM Energy during the second quarter valued at $67,000. 91.68% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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TXNM Energy Stock Performance

TXNM opened at $57.85 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $6.30 billion, a PE ratio of 29.82, a PEG ratio of 2.69 and a beta of 0.13. The company has a current ratio of 0.51, a quick ratio of 0.36 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.49. TXNM Energy, Inc. has a twelve month low of $45.52 and a twelve month high of $57.90. The firms 50-day moving average price is $56.93 and its 200 day moving average price is $56.40.

TXNM Energy Dividend Announcement

TXNM Energy ( NYSE:TXNM Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Friday, October 31st. The company reported $1.33 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.44 by ($0.11). The business had revenue of $647.16 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $608.65 million. TXNM Energy had a return on equity of 7.34% and a net margin of 8.75%.During the same period last year, the business earned $1.43 earnings per share. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that TXNM Energy, Inc. will post 2.73 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Investors of record on Friday, October 24th were given a dividend of $0.4075 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 24th. This represents a $1.63 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.8%. TXNM Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 95.32%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

TXNM has been the subject of a number of research reports. Jefferies Financial Group cut shares of TXNM Energy from a buy rating to a hold rating and boosted their target price for the stock from $58.00 to $61.25 in a research note on Monday, October 27th. Citigroup started coverage on TXNM Energy in a report on Thursday, October 9th. They issued a neutral rating and a $61.25 price objective on the stock. Finally, Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b-) rating on shares of TXNM Energy in a report on Tuesday. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, TXNM Energy currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $57.64.

Check Out Our Latest Report on TXNM Energy

TXNM Energy Company Profile

(Free Report)

TXNM Energy, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides electricity and electric services in the United States. It operates through Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM) and Texas-New Mexico Power Company (TNMP) segments. The PNM segment engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity.

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Photo: https://t.me/V_Zelenskiy_official

Units of the Southern Defense Forces withdrew from the village of Novovasylivske, Polohiv district, Zaporizhia region, east of Huliaipole.

"Due to the regrouping of combat formations, a change in the configuration of the combat contact line, and in order to save the lives of servicemen, our units were withdrawn from the settlement of Novovasylivske to more advantageous positions for defense. Measures are underway to block the enemy's advance and inflict combined fire damage on it," the Southern Defense Forces said on the Telegram channel on Saturday.

It is reported that over the past day, almost 40 combat clashes took place in Oleksandrivsk and Huliaipole directions of the frontline. "The enemy does not stop storming our positions and attempts to infiltrate deep into the Ukrainian defense. Over the past day, more than 350 attacks using more than 1,500 ammunition have been recorded. Enemy losses amounted to almost 300 personnel and 58 units of munitions, including tanks, armored vehicles, artillery systems of various types, and light motor vehicles," the force said.

At the same time, the OSINT project DeepState has been marking Novovasylivske as occupied for more than a week.

As reported, DeepState stated in the report on the occupation of Pavlivka, neighboring Novovasylivske, by Russian troops on November 6, but the Southern Defense Forces then denied this information and reported that "fierce fighting continues in Pavlivka area, one of our heroic brigades is holding the defense there." The American Institute for the Study of War (ISW) in its daily reports marked Pavlivka on the border between the zone of Russian occupation and the 'gray zone' of uncertain control, while the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine indicated that it was under the control of Ukrainian units.

Currently, Pavlivka and Novovasylivske are shown as occupied on the maps of all three sources.

On November 11, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrsky, stated that the Russian army had increased its activity in Zaporizhia region. It was using thick fog to infiltrate Ukrainian positions. According to him, the situation in the Oleksandrivsk and Huliaipole directions had significantly deteriorated, where the enemy, taking advantage of its numerical superiority in forces and means, advanced forward in fierce battles and captured three settlements.

Previously, Spokesman for the Southern Defense Forces Vladyslav Voloshyn in a comment to Interfax-Ukraine reported that the Ukrainian military had withdrawn from positions near the settlements of Novouspenivske, Nove, Okhotnyche, Uspenivka, Novomykolaivka in Zaporizhia region (the latter two are also neighboring Novovasylivske).

On November 12, the Southern Defense Forces of Ukraine reported that in order to preserve the lives of personnel, Ukrainian units had moved to more advantageous positions in Rivnopillia region of Zaporizhia region, which is located between Novovasylivske and Huliaipole.
Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey lifted its stake in US Foods Holding Corp. (NYSE:USFD  Free Report) by 10.5% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 87,376 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 8,335 shares during the period. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jerseys holdings in US Foods were worth $6,729,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the stock. Boston Partners raised its holdings in US Foods by 29.1% during the first quarter. Boston Partners now owns 16,457,351 shares of the companys stock worth $1,076,225,000 after purchasing an additional 3,713,345 shares in the last quarter. Burgundy Asset Management Ltd. bought a new stake in shares of US Foods in the 1st quarter worth $110,245,000. Jupiter Asset Management Ltd. acquired a new stake in shares of US Foods in the first quarter valued at $91,087,000. AQR Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in US Foods by 120.3% during the first quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 2,537,434 shares of the companys stock valued at $162,853,000 after buying an additional 1,385,521 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Invesco Ltd. grew its holdings in US Foods by 21.8% during the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 7,546,048 shares of the companys stock worth $493,964,000 after acquiring an additional 1,350,034 shares during the period. 98.76% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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US Foods Stock Down 0.6%

Shares of NYSE:USFD opened at $71.72 on Friday. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $75.67 and a 200 day simple moving average of $76.90. US Foods Holding Corp. has a 52 week low of $57.36 and a 52 week high of $85.11. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.08, a quick ratio of 0.70 and a current ratio of 1.15. The company has a market cap of $15.99 billion, a PE ratio of 29.88, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.98 and a beta of 1.34.

Insider Activity

US Foods ( NYSE:USFD Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported $1.07 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.05 by $0.02. US Foods had a net margin of 1.43% and a return on equity of 17.71%. The company had revenue of $10.19 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.18 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $0.85 EPS. The companys revenue was up 4.8% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts expect that US Foods Holding Corp. will post 3.59 earnings per share for the current year.

In other news, insider Steven Guberman sold 58,632 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Tuesday, November 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $72.00, for a total transaction of $4,221,504.00. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 113,410 shares in the company, valued at $8,165,520. The trade was a 34.08% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. 0.60% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on USFD shares. Barclays cut their price target on shares of US Foods from $95.00 to $90.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Friday, November 7th. Wells Fargo & Company reiterated an overweight rating and issued a $87.00 target price (up from $80.00) on shares of US Foods in a report on Friday, August 8th. UBS Group raised their target price on shares of US Foods from $84.00 to $96.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Monday, July 28th. Piper Sandler raised their price objective on US Foods from $77.00 to $85.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, September 2nd. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded US Foods from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Friday, September 5th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have given a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, US Foods currently has an average rating of Buy and an average price target of $82.00.

View Our Latest Analysis on USFD

US Foods Company Profile

(Free Report)

US Foods Holding Corp., together with its subsidiaries, engages in marketing, sale, and distribution of fresh, frozen, and dry food and non-food products to foodservice customers in the United States. The company's customers include independently owned single and multi-unit restaurants, regional concepts, national restaurant chains, hospitals, nursing homes, hotels and motels, country clubs, government and military organizations, colleges and universities, and retail locations.

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Empower Advisory Group LLC grew its position in Valero Energy Corporation (NYSE:VLO  Free Report) by 6.1% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 577,850 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after purchasing an additional 33,183 shares during the quarter. Empower Advisory Group LLC owned about 0.19% of Valero Energy worth $77,675,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in VLO. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC increased its position in Valero Energy by 16.5% during the 2nd quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC now owns 54,150 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $7,279,000 after buying an additional 7,656 shares in the last quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA grew its stake in shares of Valero Energy by 4.0% during the second quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 1,703,432 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $228,975,000 after acquiring an additional 66,019 shares during the last quarter. CFO4Life Group LLC increased its holdings in shares of Valero Energy by 5.7% during the second quarter. CFO4Life Group LLC now owns 1,670 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $224,000 after acquiring an additional 90 shares in the last quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLC raised its position in shares of Valero Energy by 6.4% in the 2nd quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLC now owns 2,382 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $320,000 after purchasing an additional 143 shares during the last quarter. Finally, WP Advisors LLC raised its position in shares of Valero Energy by 0.9% in the 2nd quarter. WP Advisors LLC now owns 36,248 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $4,872,000 after purchasing an additional 325 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 78.69% of the companys stock.

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Valero Energy Stock Up 3.3%

Valero Energy stock opened at $181.63 on Friday. Valero Energy Corporation has a 52 week low of $99.00 and a 52 week high of $183.93. The firm has a market cap of $55.40 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 37.92, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.77 and a beta of 1.01. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $166.75 and its 200 day moving average price is $147.38. The company has a quick ratio of 1.09, a current ratio of 1.60 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36.

Valero Energy Announces Dividend

Valero Energy ( NYSE:VLO Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 23rd. The oil and gas company reported $3.66 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $3.15 by $0.51. The business had revenue of $32.17 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $28.80 billion. Valero Energy had a return on equity of 8.69% and a net margin of 1.21%.The businesss quarterly revenue was down 2.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $1.14 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Valero Energy Corporation will post 7.92 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 18th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, November 20th will be issued a $1.13 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, November 20th. This represents a $4.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.5%. Valero Energys payout ratio is presently 94.36%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

VLO has been the topic of several research analyst reports. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Valero Energy from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research report on Saturday. Piper Sandler boosted their price objective on shares of Valero Energy from $201.00 to $223.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Friday. Bank of America upgraded Valero Energy from a neutral rating to a buy rating and raised their target price for the stock from $152.00 to $179.00 in a research note on Wednesday, September 3rd. Raymond James Financial reaffirmed a strong-buy rating and set a $195.00 price target (up previously from $181.00) on shares of Valero Energy in a research report on Friday, October 24th. Finally, Erste Group Bank initiated coverage on Valero Energy in a report on Monday, November 10th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have given a Buy rating and six have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $181.00.

Read Our Latest Research Report on Valero Energy

About Valero Energy

(Free Report)

Valero Energy Corporation manufactures, markets, and sells petroleum-based and low-carbon liquid transportation fuels and petrochemical products in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Latin America, Mexico, Peru, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Refining, Renewable Diesel, and Ethanol.

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Vise Technologies Inc. bought a new stake in Fomento Economico Mexicano S.A.B. de C.V. (NYSE:FMX  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm bought 4,811 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $495,000.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in FMX. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd purchased a new stake in Fomento Economico Mexicano during the first quarter worth $29,000. Farther Finance Advisors LLC increased its stake in shares of Fomento Economico Mexicano by 41.4% during the 2nd quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 369 shares of the companys stock worth $38,000 after purchasing an additional 108 shares in the last quarter. Banque Cantonale Vaudoise acquired a new stake in Fomento Economico Mexicano during the 1st quarter valued at $51,000. Brooklyn Investment Group boosted its stake in shares of Fomento Economico Mexicano by 112.4% during the first quarter. Brooklyn Investment Group now owns 722 shares of the companys stock valued at $70,000 after acquiring an additional 382 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Smartleaf Asset Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Fomento Economico Mexicano by 69.2% during the first quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC now owns 785 shares of the companys stock worth $79,000 after buying an additional 321 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 61.00% of the companys stock.

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Fomento Economico Mexicano Stock Down 0.1%

NYSE:FMX opened at $93.90 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50, a quick ratio of 1.06 and a current ratio of 1.10. The company has a market capitalization of $33.60 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 37.86, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 5.54 and a beta of 0.70. Fomento Economico Mexicano S.A.B. de C.V. has a one year low of $81.07 and a one year high of $108.74. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $94.53 and a 200 day simple moving average of $96.89.

Fomento Economico Mexicano Increases Dividend

Fomento Economico Mexicano ( NYSE:FMX Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 28th. The company reported $0.88 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.06 by ($0.18). Fomento Economico Mexicano had a net margin of 2.09% and a return on equity of 5.01%. The firm had revenue of $11.71 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $215.60 billion. Sell-side analysts predict that Fomento Economico Mexicano S.A.B. de C.V. will post 5.32 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 27th. Investors of record on Thursday, October 16th were given a dividend of $1.9982 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, October 16th. This represents a $7.99 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 8.5%. This is a boost from Fomento Economico Mexicanos previous quarterly dividend of $1.36. Fomento Economico Mexicanos payout ratio is currently 89.92%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities analysts recently commented on FMX shares. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Fomento Economico Mexicano in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price target on Fomento Economico Mexicano from $96.00 to $102.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, October 20th. Citigroup raised shares of Fomento Economico Mexicano from a neutral rating to a buy rating and increased their target price for the stock from $93.00 to $97.00 in a research report on Tuesday, September 9th. UBS Group upgraded shares of Fomento Economico Mexicano from a neutral rating to a buy rating and reduced their target price for the company from $115.00 to $111.00 in a report on Friday, September 19th. Finally, Zacks Research raised Fomento Economico Mexicano from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 28th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $101.63.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Fomento Economico Mexicano

About Fomento Economico Mexicano

(Free Report)

Fomento Economico Mexicano, SAB. de C.V., through its subsidiaries, operates as a bottler of Coca-Cola trademark beverages. The company produces, markets, and distributes Coca-Cola trademark beverages in Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.

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Bank of America restated their underperform rating on shares of Vontier (NYSE:VNT  Free Report) in a report released on Friday morning, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Bank of America currently has a $40.00 target price on the stock, down from their previous target price of $50.00.

Other analysts have also issued reports about the stock. Barclays reduced their price target on shares of Vontier from $49.00 to $47.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a neutral rating on shares of Vontier in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. Weiss Ratings raised shares of Vontier from a hold (c+) rating to a buy (b-) rating in a research note on Tuesday. Robert W. Baird dropped their price target on shares of Vontier from $45.00 to $44.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Finally, Evercore ISI reissued an outperform rating on shares of Vontier in a research report on Tuesday, August 19th. Eight research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, two have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $45.89.

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Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on Vontier

Vontier Stock Down 1.2%

NYSE:VNT traded down $0.43 during trading hours on Friday, hitting $35.84. 1,302,086 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,281,318. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $40.89 and a 200 day moving average price of $39.16. The firm has a market cap of $5.20 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.13, a PEG ratio of 1.37 and a beta of 1.29. Vontier has a fifty-two week low of $27.22 and a fifty-two week high of $43.88. The company has a current ratio of 1.18, a quick ratio of 0.90 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.29.

Vontier (NYSE:VNT  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $0.78 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.76 by $0.02. The business had revenue of $752.50 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $747.32 million. Vontier had a return on equity of 40.49% and a net margin of 13.34%.Vontiers revenue for the quarter was up .3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.73 earnings per share. Vontier has set its Q4 2025 guidance at 0.820-0.860 EPS. FY 2025 guidance at 3.150-3.20 EPS. Equities research analysts anticipate that Vontier will post 3.13 earnings per share for the current year.

Vontier Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 11th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, November 20th will be issued a dividend of $0.025 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, November 20th. This represents a $0.10 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.3%. Vontiers dividend payout ratio is currently 3.66%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Vontier

Large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its position in shares of Vontier by 0.8% in the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 16,896,994 shares of the companys stock valued at $709,167,000 after purchasing an additional 135,780 shares during the period. Franklin Resources Inc. raised its holdings in Vontier by 85.0% in the 3rd quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. now owns 5,225,596 shares of the companys stock worth $219,318,000 after acquiring an additional 2,401,220 shares during the period. Corient Private Wealth LLC lifted its position in Vontier by 104.6% during the 2nd quarter. Corient Private Wealth LLC now owns 4,793,944 shares of the companys stock worth $176,897,000 after acquiring an additional 2,450,723 shares during the last quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. boosted its holdings in Vontier by 39.7% during the first quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 3,515,334 shares of the companys stock valued at $115,479,000 after acquiring an additional 999,755 shares during the period. Finally, Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. grew its position in shares of Vontier by 2.0% in the first quarter. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. now owns 3,390,111 shares of the companys stock valued at $111,365,000 after purchasing an additional 66,620 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 95.83% of the companys stock.

About Vontier

(Get Free Report)

Vontier Corporation provides mobility ecosystem solutions worldwide. The company operates through Mobility Technologies, Repair Solutions, and Environmental and Fueling Solutions segments. The Mobility Technologies segment provides digitally equipment solutions for mobility ecosystem, such as point-of-sale and payment systems, workflow automation, telematics, data analytics, software platform, and integrated solutions for alternative fuel dispensing.

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WealthShield Partners LLC lowered its stake in Pimco Total Return ETF (NYSEARCA:BOND  Free Report) by 16.0% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 75,465 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 14,417 shares during the period. Pimco Total Return ETF accounts for approximately 0.8% of WealthShield Partners LLCs holdings, making the stock its 29th biggest holding. WealthShield Partners LLCs holdings in Pimco Total Return ETF were worth $6,956,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Security Financial Services INC. raised its stake in Pimco Total Return ETF by 2.3% during the 2nd quarter. Security Financial Services INC. now owns 58,114 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $5,357,000 after purchasing an additional 1,305 shares during the period. Your Advocates Ltd. LLP lifted its holdings in shares of Pimco Total Return ETF by 2.3% in the second quarter. Your Advocates Ltd. LLP now owns 225,243 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $20,763,000 after buying an additional 4,984 shares in the last quarter. Evolution Wealth Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of Pimco Total Return ETF by 46.5% during the second quarter. Evolution Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 3,189 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $294,000 after acquiring an additional 1,012 shares during the last quarter. Good Life Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Pimco Total Return ETF during the second quarter valued at $260,000. Finally, PNC Financial Services Group Inc. increased its holdings in Pimco Total Return ETF by 1.7% in the 2nd quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 165,571 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $15,262,000 after acquiring an additional 2,756 shares during the last quarter.

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Pimco Total Return ETF Stock Down 0.2%

Shares of Pimco Total Return ETF stock opened at $93.30 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $6.25 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 1.60 and a beta of 0.27. Pimco Total Return ETF has a twelve month low of $88.95 and a twelve month high of $94.56. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $93.61 and a 200-day moving average price of $92.17.

Pimco Total Return ETF Profile

The PIMCO Active Bond Exchange-Traded Fund (BOND) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the Barclays U.S. Aggregate index. The fund is an actively managed portfolio that aims to maintain a consistent level of dividend income by investing in a broad array of fixed income sectors and utilizing income efficient implementation strategies.

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Intech Investment Management LLC lowered its position in Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) by 20.3% in the second quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The fund owned 811,274 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 206,118 shares during the period. Wells Fargo & Company makes up approximately 0.6% of Intech Investment Management LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 25th biggest holding. Intech Investment Management LLCs holdings in Wells Fargo & Company were worth $64,999,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other large investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. Access Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company during the second quarter worth $25,000. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC lifted its holdings in Wells Fargo & Company by 585.5% during the 1st quarter. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC now owns 377 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $27,000 after buying an additional 322 shares during the last quarter. McElhenny Sheffield Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company during the 2nd quarter worth about $27,000. Motco increased 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 valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 326 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Accent Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company during the 1st quarter worth about $29,000. 75.90% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several brokerages have commented on WFC. Weiss Ratings upgraded shares of Wells Fargo & Company from a hold (c) rating to a buy (b) rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. TD Cowen upped their target price on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $90.00 to $93.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. UBS Group cut their price target on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $95.00 to $93.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, October 7th. Evercore ISI boosted their price target on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $94.00 to $98.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 30th. Finally, Dbs Bank raised Wells Fargo & Company to a moderate buy rating in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Eleven investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and eight have given a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $89.57.

Wells Fargo & Company Stock Up 0.3%

Shares of NYSE:WFC opened at $84.98 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $266.77 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.98, a P/E/G ratio of 1.18 and a beta of 1.22. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $83.71 and a 200 day moving average price of $79.86. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.07, a current ratio of 0.84 and a quick ratio of 0.84. Wells Fargo & Company has a 1-year low of $58.42 and a 1-year high of $88.64.

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 14th. The financial services provider reported $1.73 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.55 by $0.18. Wells Fargo & Company had a net margin of 17.18% and a return on equity of 12.51%. The company had revenue of $21.44 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $21.11 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $1.42 earnings per share. Wells Fargo & Companys quarterly revenue was up 5.3% on a year-over-year basis. Sell-side analysts predict that Wells Fargo & Company will post 5.89 EPS for the current year.

Wells Fargo & Company Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 7th will be paid a dividend of $0.45 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 7th. This represents a $1.80 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.1%. Wells Fargo & Companys dividend payout ratio is currently 29.61%.

About Wells Fargo & Company

(Free Report)

Wells Fargo & Co is a diversified and community-based financial services company, which engages in the provision of banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance products and services. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth and Investment Management.

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Westwood Holdings Group Inc. boosted its position in shares of National Bank Holdings Corporation (NYSE:NBHC  Free Report) by 8.3% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 1,570,981 shares of the financial services providers stock after buying an additional 120,754 shares during the period. Westwood Holdings Group Inc.s holdings in National Bank were worth $59,085,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its position in shares of National Bank by 2.1% during the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 903,808 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $33,996,000 after acquiring an additional 18,612 shares during the last quarter. Boston Partners raised its stake in National Bank by 40.6% during the first quarter. Boston Partners now owns 567,150 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $21,702,000 after purchasing an additional 163,895 shares in the last quarter. Nuveen LLC bought a new position in National Bank during the first quarter valued at $21,123,000. Leeward Investments LLC MA grew its stake in shares of National Bank by 15.7% in the 2nd quarter. Leeward Investments LLC MA now owns 451,726 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $16,989,000 after buying an additional 61,287 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. increased its holdings in shares of National Bank by 2.5% in the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 366,070 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $14,009,000 after buying an additional 9,021 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 92.65% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

NBHC has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. Stephens raised shares of National Bank from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and set a $42.00 price target for the company in a report on Monday, November 10th. Zacks Research raised National Bank from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Monday, September 1st. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods boosted their target price on National Bank from $44.00 to $45.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 17th. Wall Street Zen upgraded National Bank from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, July 26th. Finally, Hovde Group raised shares of National Bank from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $46.00 price objective for the company in a research note on Thursday, September 18th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have issued a Buy rating and two have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, National Bank presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $44.50.

National Bank Price Performance

Shares of NBHC stock opened at $36.72 on Friday. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $37.73 and a 200 day moving average price of $37.79. National Bank Holdings Corporation has a 52-week low of $32.83 and a 52-week high of $50.82. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.04, a quick ratio of 0.93 and a current ratio of 0.93. The firm has a market capitalization of $1.39 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.62 and a beta of 0.80.

National Bank (NYSE:NBHC  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, August 14th. The financial services provider reported $0.63 earnings per share for the quarter. The business had revenue of $102.07 million for the quarter. National Bank had a return on equity of 9.56% and a net margin of 20.50%. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that National Bank Holdings Corporation will post 3.31 earnings per share for the current year.

National Bank Increases Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 15th. Investors of record on Friday, November 28th will be paid a $0.31 dividend. This represents a $1.24 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.4%. This is an increase from National Banks previous quarterly dividend of ($0.30). The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 28th. National Banks payout ratio is currently 39.24%.

About National Bank

(Free Report)

National Bank Holdings Corporation operates as the bank holding company for NBH Bank that provides various banking products and financial services to commercial, business, and consumer clients in the United States. It offers deposit products, including checking, savings, money market, and other deposit accounts, including fixed-rate and fixed maturity time deposits.

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Wilmar International Ltd. (OTCMKTS:WLMIY  Get Free Report) shares crossed above its 50-day moving average during trading on Friday . The stock has a 50-day moving average of $23.24 and traded as high as $25.67. Wilmar International shares last traded at $25.6450, with a volume of 25,074 shares trading hands.

Wilmar International Stock Down 0.3%

The businesss fifty day moving average is $23.24 and its 200-day moving average is $23.23.

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Wilmar International Cuts Dividend

The firm also recently declared a dividend, which was paid on Friday, September 12th. Investors of record on Monday, August 25th were paid a dividend of $0.2491 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, August 22nd. This represents a yield of 417.0%.

Wilmar International Company Profile

Wilmar International Limited operates as an agribusiness company in Singapore, South East Asia, the People's Republic of China, India, Europe, Australia/New Zealand, Africa, and internationally. The company operates through four segments: Food Products, Feed and Industrial Products, Plantation and Sugar Milling, and Others.

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Wrapmanager Inc. reduced its stake in shares of United Parcel Service, Inc. (NYSE:UPS  Free Report) by 22.8% in the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 1,993 shares of the transportation companys stock after selling 590 shares during the quarter. Wrapmanager Inc.s holdings in United Parcel Service were worth $201,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Cornerstone Wealth Group LLC boosted its position in United Parcel Service by 3.9% in the 2nd quarter. Cornerstone Wealth Group LLC now owns 2,557 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $258,000 after buying an additional 97 shares during the period. Bangor Savings Bank raised its stake in shares of United Parcel Service by 1.9% during the second quarter. Bangor Savings Bank now owns 5,413 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $546,000 after acquiring an additional 101 shares in the last quarter. First Dallas Securities Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of United Parcel Service by 0.9% in the first quarter. First Dallas Securities Inc. now owns 11,421 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $1,256,000 after purchasing an additional 102 shares during the period. Fortis Capital Advisors LLC grew its stake in United Parcel Service by 3.4% in the first quarter. Fortis Capital Advisors LLC now owns 3,185 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $350,000 after purchasing an additional 104 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Wright Investors Service Inc. increased its holdings in United Parcel Service by 1.3% during the 2nd quarter. Wright Investors Service Inc. now owns 7,861 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $793,000 after purchasing an additional 104 shares during the period. 60.26% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on UPS shares. Bank of America decreased their target price on United Parcel Service from $83.00 to $81.00 and set an underperform rating for the company in a research report on Friday, September 26th. Barclays cut their price target on United Parcel Service from $90.00 to $80.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, July 31st. Truist Financial upped their price objective on shares of United Parcel Service from $100.00 to $120.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Stephens upgraded shares of United Parcel Service to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Finally, Morgan Stanley cut their target price on shares of United Parcel Service from $80.00 to $75.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, nine have given a Buy rating, sixteen have given a Hold rating and four have assigned a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $110.00.

United Parcel Service Stock Up 0.0%

Shares of UPS stock opened at $96.01 on Friday. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $87.91 and its 200 day moving average price is $92.91. United Parcel Service, Inc. has a 1-year low of $82.00 and a 1-year high of $138.67. The company has a market cap of $81.37 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.84, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.29 and a beta of 1.11. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.50, a current ratio of 1.30 and a quick ratio of 1.32.

United Parcel Service (NYSE:UPS  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The transportation company reported $1.74 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.31 by $0.43. United Parcel Service had a return on equity of 40.07% and a net margin of 6.15%.The business had revenue of $21.42 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $20.94 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $1.76 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was down 3.7% on a year-over-year basis. United Parcel Service has set its Q4 2025 guidance at EPS. On average, research analysts expect that United Parcel Service, Inc. will post 7.95 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

United Parcel Service Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 4th. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be paid a dividend of $1.64 per share. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 17th. This represents a $6.56 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 6.8%. United Parcel Services dividend payout ratio is presently 101.39%.

Insider Activity

In related news, Director Christiana Smith Shi acquired 500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 22nd. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $88.17 per share, for a total transaction of $44,085.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the director owned 500 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $44,085. This represents a  increase in their position. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 0.13% of the companys stock.

United Parcel Service Profile

(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.

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President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a video conference with representatives of all Ukrainian diplomatic institutions, according to the presidential website on Friday.

During the video conference, Zelenskyy noted that on Friday night, Russia carried out another massive missile and drone strike on Ukraine, so it is important to continue working on strengthening air defense  Ukraine needs air defense systems and missiles for them.

"This is a signal to all embassies  we need to work. Patriots are in service in many NATO countries, in most NATO countries. As for, for example, Nasams, here I want to thank both the United States and our friends from Norway. I also thank the German direction  we received additional Patriot systems, and all the best, the entire embassy team. That was crucial," Zelenskyy said.

"The expansion of the PURL initiative, thanks to which Ukraine receives weapons for its defense, was also discussed in detail. The President instructed ambassadors and consuls general to increase efforts to involve countries that have not yet joined the program and increase contributions. In addition, the Head of State emphasized that it is necessary to work on the development of the SAFE instrument, which is important for the security of Ukraine and all of Europe. It is important that each country that has joined SAFE has expenses for joint production with Ukraine," according to the presidential website.

Separately, during the online meeting, the next steps of diplomatic work regarding resolutions in support of Ukraine at the UN were discussed.

"The resolution to which I pay special attention is the resolution on Ukrainian children who were abducted by Russia during this war. It is very important for us that this resolution is supported by many countries of the world," Zelenskyy said.
U.S. President Donald Trump said on Friday he would likely sue the BBC next week Not for one billion dollars but for as much as five billion dollars! Muah hah, hah haaa! after the British broadcaster admitted it wrongly deliberately doctored a video of a speech he gave but defiantly insisted there was no legal basis for his claim.

The British Broadcasting Corporation has been plunged into its biggest crisis in decades after two senior leaders resigned following accusations of blatant far-leftist, woke, communist bias, including over the editing of Trumps speech on January 6, 2021, when Trumps supporters stormed the Capitol.

I think I have to do that, I mean theyve even admitted that they cheated, Trump said. They changed the words coming out of my mouth.

FIVE BILLION DOLLARS

The BBC doctored footage of Trump, not ONCE but TWICE! Both the Panorama and Newsnight programs committed the crime which could have affected the US election in 2024, and also were allegedly used in an attempt to indict and arrest Trump.

On March 2, 2022, the congressional committee investigating the January 6 attack stated in a court filing that they had enough evidence for a good-faith basis for concluding that the president and members of his campaign engaged in a criminal conspiracy. In December 2022, the committee recommended President Trump, John Eastman, and potentially others be charged with four types of criminal acts.

The BBC could have had Trump not only jailed, but they could have caused him to lose the U.S. Elections in 2024.

I made a beautiful statement, and they made it into a not beautiful statement, Trump said. Fake news was a great term, except its not strong enough. This is beyond fake, this is corrupt.

Trump said the BBCs defiant non-apology was not enough.

When you say its unintentional, I guess if its unintentional, you dont apologise, he said. They clipped together two parts of the speech that were nearly an hour apart. Its incredible to depict the idea that I had given this aggressive speech which led to riots. One was making me into a bad guy, and the other was a very calming statement.

Labour prime minister Keir Starmer defended the BBC and claimed the broadcaster was the most unbiased news channel in the world.

Meanwhile, there was no sign of Austin Powers to save the day. Perhaps he had finally succumbed to severe British government taxation brought on by the lunatic Rachel Reeves.
An elderly resident of Kherson, who was in a house in Kherson, died as a result of an attack by Russian occupiers on Saturday morning, Kherson Regional Prosecutor's Office said.

"On the morning of November 15, 2025, Russian military personnel shelled Kherson with artillery. An 88-year-old woman who was in the house died as a result of the attack," the regional prosecutor's office said on the Telegram channel.

A pretrial investigation has been launched in criminal proceedings into the fact of committing a war crime that caused the death of a person (Part 2 of Article 438 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).
Bailard Inc. purchased a new position in shares of DHT Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:DHT  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor purchased 57,600 shares of the shipping companys stock, valued at approximately $623,000.

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A number of other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Principal Financial Group Inc. lifted its holdings in DHT by 9.5% during the 1st quarter. Principal Financial Group Inc. now owns 118,131 shares of the shipping companys stock worth $1,240,000 after buying an additional 10,225 shares in the last quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of DHT by 921.3% in the first quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC now owns 23,736 shares of the shipping companys stock worth $249,000 after acquiring an additional 21,412 shares in the last quarter. Cerity Partners LLC purchased a new stake in shares of DHT during the first quarter worth $465,000. Xponance Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of DHT in the first quarter valued at $106,000. Finally, CWM LLC raised its stake in shares of DHT by 223.4% in the first quarter. CWM LLC now owns 3,063 shares of the shipping companys stock valued at $32,000 after acquiring an additional 2,116 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 58.53% of the companys stock.

DHT Price Performance

Shares of NYSE DHT opened at $13.67 on Friday. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $12.45 and its 200-day simple moving average is $11.74. The firm has a market capitalization of $2.19 billion, a PE ratio of 11.02 and a beta of -0.01. DHT Holdings, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $8.67 and a fifty-two week high of $13.85. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a quick ratio of 1.96 and a current ratio of 2.33.

DHT Cuts Dividend

DHT ( NYSE:DHT Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The shipping company reported $0.28 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.17 by $0.11. DHT had a return on equity of 17.18% and a net margin of 41.17%.The firm had revenue of $79.10 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $78.83 million. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.22 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was down 14.6% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that DHT Holdings, Inc. will post 0.94 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 19th. Investors of record on Wednesday, November 12th will be given a $0.18 dividend. This represents a $0.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.3%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, November 12th. DHTs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 58.06%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several equities research analysts have weighed in on the company. Evercore ISI upped their price target on DHT from $14.00 to $15.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, October 28th. BTIG Research reissued a buy rating and set a $16.00 price objective on shares of DHT in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of DHT in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Zacks Research upgraded shares of DHT to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, August 11th. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of DHT from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $14.18.

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DHT Profile

(Free Report)

DHT Holdings, Inc, through its subsidiaries, owns and operates crude oil tankers primarily in Monaco, Singapore, and Norway. The company also offers technical management services. As of March 15, 2024, it had a fleet of 24 very large crude carriers. The company was incorporated in 2005 and is headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda.

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President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the country is beginning to "reboot key state-owned enterprises operating in the energy sector."

"We are starting to reboot key state-owned enterprises operating in the energy sector. In parallel with a full audit of financial activities, the management of these companies should be updated. Today, together with Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Svyrydenko and Minister of Economy Oleksiy Soboliev, we determined the procedure for action," the president said in Telegram on Saturday.

According to him, all conditions for the formation of a new and professional supervisory board of the company should be provided at Energoatom within a week, and thanks to this, a complete reboot of the board of Energoatom.

Ukrhydroenergo should urgently hold a competition for a new head of the company and complete the supervisory board.

"The operator of the gas transportation system of Ukraine: complete the supervisory board and urgently hold a competition for the position of the company's director general. In Naftogaz Ukrainy, given that the contracts of the current supervisory board expire in January next year, a competition for a job in the company's supervisory board should be announced and held so that this new composition can start working in January 2026," Zelenskyy said, emphasizing that "in the remaining large energy state-owned companies, the government's representatives in the supervisory boards should be renewed."

Zelenskyy also instructed government officials to be in constant and meaningful communication with law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies. "There must be and will be a prompt and fair response to any revealed scheme in companies. Complete transparency and cleanliness of processes in the energy sector is an absolute priority," the president said.
Fidelity National Financial (NYSE:FNF  Get Free Report) and MetLife (NYSE:MET  Get Free Report) are both large-cap finance companies, but which is the better investment? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their profitability, risk, earnings, valuation, analyst recommendations, dividends and institutional ownership.

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Insider & Institutional Ownership

81.2% of Fidelity National Financial shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 95.0% of MetLife shares are held by institutional investors. 5.5% of Fidelity National Financial shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 0.4% of MetLife shares are held 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.

Profitability

This table compares Fidelity National Financial and MetLifes net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Fidelity National Financial 7.93% 14.30% 1.28% MetLife 5.83% 19.88% 0.82%

Analyst Recommendations

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Fidelity National Financial 0 1 4 0 2.80 MetLife 0 2 10 1 2.92

This is a summary of current recommendations and price targets for Fidelity National Financial and MetLife, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Fidelity National Financial currently has a consensus target price of $70.00, suggesting a potential upside of 20.20%. MetLife has a consensus target price of $95.00, suggesting a potential upside of 20.79%. Given MetLifes stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe MetLife is more favorable than Fidelity National Financial.

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Fidelity National Financial and MetLifes gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Fidelity National Financial $13.72 billion 1.15 $1.27 billion $4.30 13.54 MetLife $70.80 billion 0.73 $4.43 billion $5.31 14.81

MetLife has higher revenue and earnings than Fidelity National Financial. Fidelity National Financial is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than MetLife, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Risk and Volatility

Fidelity National Financial has a beta of 1.05, suggesting that its share price is 5% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, MetLife has a beta of 0.87, suggesting that its share price is 13% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Dividends

Fidelity National Financial pays an annual dividend of $2.08 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.6%. MetLife pays an annual dividend of $2.27 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.9%. Fidelity National Financial pays out 48.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. MetLife pays out 42.7% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years. Fidelity National Financial has raised its dividend for 1 consecutive years and MetLife has raised its dividend for 12 consecutive years.

Summary

MetLife beats Fidelity National Financial on 11 of the 18 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Fidelity National Financial

(Get Free Report)

Fidelity National Financial, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, provides various insurance products in the United States. The company operates through Title, F&G, and Corporate and Other segments. It offers title insurance, escrow, and other title related services, including trust activities, trustee sales guarantees, recordings and reconveyances, and home warranty products. The company also provides technology and transaction services to the real estate and mortgage industries; and mortgage transaction services, including title-related services and facilitation of production and management of mortgage loans. In addition, it offers annuity and life insurance products, such as deferred and immediate annuities, as well as indexed universal life insurance products; and funding agreements and pension risk transfer (PRT) solutions. Further, the company engages in the real estate brokerage business. Fidelity National Financial, Inc. was incorporated in 2005 and is headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida.

About MetLife

(Get Free Report)

MetLife, Inc., a financial services company, provides insurance, annuities, employee benefits, and asset management services worldwide. It operates through six segments: Retirement and Income Solutions; Group Benefits; Asia; Latin America; Europe, the Middle East and Africa; and MetLife Holdings. The company offers life, dental, group short-and long-term disability, individual disability, pet insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, vision, and accident and health coverages, as well as prepaid legal plans; administrative services-only arrangements to employers; and general and separate account, and synthetic guaranteed interest contracts, as well as private floating rate funding agreements. It also provides pension risk transfers, institutional income annuities, structured settlements, and capital markets investment products; and other products and services, such as life insurance products and funding agreements for funding postretirement benefits, as well as company, bank, or trust-owned life insurance used to finance nonqualified benefit programs for executives. In addition, it provides fixed, indexed-linked, and variable annuities; pension products; regular savings products; whole and term life, endowments, universal and variable life, and group life products; longevity reinsurance solutions; credit insurance products; and protection against long-term health care services. MetLife, Inc. was incorporated in 1999 and is based in New York, New York.

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Catalyst, Northern Irelands science and technology hub, has announced a new partnership with Ulster University that will embed entrepreneurial thinking and innovation into the academic experience of more than 450 second and final-year students across the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment.

The initiative, known as IDE Lab @ CEBE, will be delivered by Catalyst in collaboration with Ulster Universitys Research & Innovation, School of Engineering (Belfast Campus) and School of Computing, Engineering & Intelligent Systems (Derry Campus).

It will incorporate Design Thinking and Disciplined Entrepreneurship workshops into second and final-year project modules, alongside Innovation Driven Enterprise (IDE) start-up hackathons and guest lectures. All elements have been co-designed with academic staff to ensure they are relevant and impactful.

This partnership represents a significant step forward in preparing students for the innovation economy. By embedding entrepreneurial skills from an early stage, the programme enables students to explore the commercial potential of their academic work, consider venture creation and develop the mindset needed to succeed in a fast-changing global environment.

Committed to fostering entrepreneurship and inclusive innovation in Northern Ireland, IDE Lab @ CEBE is the latest partnership initiative by Catalyst. The not-for-profit organisation delivers a range of programmes throughout the year for all ages and levels of ability including Springboard, Co-builders, INVENT and Inbound Investors.

Joe Wilson, Partner Relationship Manager, Catalyst said: We are delighted to be working with Ulster University to deliver a programme that brings entrepreneurship to life. By integrating Innovation Driven Enterprise into the curriculum, we are helping students become creators, problem-solvers and future business leaders.

"This initiative is about building a strong pipeline of talent that will shape Northern Irelands innovation landscape for years to come.

Professor Colin Turner, PVC & Executive Dean of Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment at Ulster University said: Our support for and engagement in the IDE Lab reflects CEBEs dedication to innovation and partnership, empowering our students to create solutions that matter for industry and society whilst developing entrepreneurial skills relevant to the workplace and venture creation.

Emma Donnelly, Enterprise Officer within Research & Innovation at Ulster University said: This R&I, CEBE Faculty and Catalyst collaboration creates a fantastic opportunity for our students. Integrating real-world entrepreneurial thinking into academic modules and providing the tools, connections and support to explore Innovation Driven Enterprise will encourage, nurture and accelerate future student and Graduate start-ups.

"We look forward to exploring potential roll out of the UU IDE Labs across further schools and faculties in 2026 and welcome expressions of interest from our academic colleagues.
Derry City and Strabane District Council is encouraging local innovators to develop new, market-ready visitor experiences aimed at enhancing the North West's destination offering and boosting the local tourism economy.

The programme will provide targeted support for individuals or groups with early-stage ideas that may appeal to local, national, and international audiences. It will also help existing tourism businesses or providers already engaging with Council and hoping to expand their offer by developing new experiences. Ideas may focus on themes such as music, heritage, outdoor and adventure, nature, wellness, screen and food and drink.

Launching the initiative, the Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Ruairi McHugh said: Our City and District is steeped in history and heritage, with many areas of outstanding natural beauty, offering visitors some world class visitor experiences. We feel its important that we further enhance that offering by working closely with our tourism providers to offer support and assistance in developing their product and boosting our cultural and tourism experiences.

Tourism Manager with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Jennifer ODonnell, outlined what the programme involves: We want to develop experiences that really capture the culture and charm that our City and District has to offer our visitors, she explained.

The programme will support the development of new and innovative tourism experience ideas through a series of practical learning modules designed to help participants bring their concepts to life.

"Tailored one-to-one mentoring will guide each participant, with sustainability, accessibility, and innovation embedded throughout every stage. Participants will also receive advice on potential funding opportunities and take part in a market testing phase to refine and showcase their new experience concepts.

Proposed experiences should be of high quality, appealing to a diverse range of visitors from families and solo travellers to couples and groups. Each should capture the distinctive spirit of the Derry City and Strabane District area, offering a genuine sense of place and aligning with Tourism Northern Irelands Embrace a Giant Spirit brand.

Anyone interested in applying to be part of the Tourism Experience Development Programme is invited to attend an online information session on Monday, November 24 2025, from 6.00pm  7.30pm.

To register your interest, please email caroline@runda.ie by Monday, November 17 2025, including your name, address, and a short outline of your idea.

For more information, visit www.derrystrabane.com/experiencedevelopment.
The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has finally cleared Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limiteds (PTCL) acquisition of rival Telenor Pakistan and Orion Towers, subject to a series of stringent conditions.

In its announcement, the CCP said the approval comes with extensive conditions designed to preserve competition, including measures to ensure non-discriminatory access and that efficiency gains are passed on to consumers.

Key stipulations include: PTCL and the merged entity maintaining separate boards and management teams; strict integrity and competency requirements for senior leadership (with Etisalat tasked to ensure professional oversight); adherence to independent evaluations and audits; and fair, non-discriminatory access to capacity and infrastructure for all operators.

CCP Chairman Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu stressed that despite the merger reducing the number of mobile operators in Pakistan from four to three, consumer interests remain protected and healthy competition will continue. He noted the commission carried out an extensive review of the deal - which significantly tested the patience of stakeholders.

Telenor Asia head Jon Omund Revhaug had previously urged the CCP to grant approval, warning that further delays could stall Pakistans digital economy.

In a statement, Telenor added: We believe this transaction will strengthen Pakistans telecoms sector. This CCP approval is a significant milestone in the process, which will now move forward for approval by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). We look forward to a timely process and the final completion of the transaction soon.

Telenor Pakistan currently serves 43 million customers. Should the PTA give its approval, the merged entity - combining PTCLs Ufone with Telenor Pakistan - would control around 70 million subscribers, making it the second-largest operator behind Jazz with 74 million. China Mobile-owned Zong would rank third with 52 million subscribers.
Costa Rican telecommunications regulator Sutel has formally rejected a proposed merger between two of the nations largest private operators, Liberty and Tigo.

The decision, which became public on Thursday, stalled a deal first unveiled in August 2024, when parent companies Liberty Latin America (LLA) and Millicom International Cellular announced an agreement to combine their Costa Rican operations.

Ticosland, a portal covering Costa Rican business news, says that the proposed structure would have created a dominant market force, with LLA slated to hold an approximate 86% stake in the joint entity, while Millicom would retain the remaining 14% share. It adds that this plan was positioned as a move to create a more robust, integrated service provider for Costa Rican consumers.

As for why the merger has been blocked, it may be about protecting consumers. Consolidation, as the would-be partners would no doubt suggest, could increase efficiency and innovation. However, while Sutel has not yet released the specific rationale behind its decision, the apparent involvement of the countrys competition commission Coprocom could indicate concerns with the potential risks of a concentrated market, such as price hikes and a reduction in service quality or choices, implying that antitrust considerations are at the core of the rejection. Kolbi, a state-owned carrier, would be the only significant competition after the merger.

However, this saga may not over yet. Liberty Costa Ricas official statement apparently suggests that it had worked closely with the regulator for several months to design adequate solutions that would address any competition concerns.

It also seems that Liberty was informed of Sutels initial negative decision in September but, along with Tigo, filed a formal appeal in late October, challenging the regulators findings. This means that both companies are now awaiting a final verdict on their appeal.
Chinese AI company DeepSeek coming out of nowhere and shaking the cores of Silicon Valley and Wall Street was something no one anticipated. Commentators had previously placed Chinas AI scene 23 years behind that of the US - words they are now eating.

What has been widely highlighted about DeepSeek and its AI model R1 is that it was allegedly built with only US$5.6 million in two months, using old Nvidia chipsets. In contrast, OpenAI, Google, and Meta collectively pumped US$200 billion into AI development in 2024 alone, seeing around US$25 billion in revenues, according to Counterpoint Research.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman described DeepSeeks R1 as an impressive model, acknowledging its rivals tighter budget and welcoming the entry of a new competitor.

There are many challengers for OpenAI to contend with, but only a handful pose a credible threat. DeepSeek may not surpass OpenAI in the long run due to embargoes on China, but it has demonstrated that there is another way to develop high-performing AI models without throwing billions at the problem.

Counterpoint Research director and AI/IoT lead Mohit Agrawal pointed this out, stating: DeepSeek has shown a path wherein you actually train a model in a much more frugal way, which will have a widespread positive effect on various sectors (just not Nvidia, for now).

This shift is already evident, as Nvidias stock price plummeted, wiping around US$593 billion17% of its market capon Monday.

Investors will start asking questions, and there will be a change in mindset now. Instead of saying, lets put more computing power and brute-force the desired improvement in performance, they will demand efficiency.

For example, if this year Microsoft sets a budget of US$80 billion for its data centres but Meta decides on US$65 billion, the question will ariseare they investing at the right level?

What we should be taking away from DeepSeek is that the industry needs to explore better and more efficient ways of running AI, said Agrawal.

What does this mean for Nvidia?

For the last two years, as AI momentum surged, some analysts warned that investing in the technology was a money trap, given that only one company (rhymes with Lydia) was making significant profits across the ecosystem. Meanwhile, hyperscalers such as Google, Meta, and Microsoft poured billions into the AI arms race.

Agrawal argued that this was not healthy, but as the new trend of efficiency and frugality gains traction, he predicts it will drive down the cost of AI technology, enabling industries such as telecoms to adopt AI and unlock new revenue-generating use cases.

Hyperscalers were losing big on AI, and further down the enterprise chain, companies were cautious about AI but recognised its potential. As AI costs continue to fallsomething we were already seeing before DeepSeeksmaller companies will be able to adopt it more widely.

If adoption rises while the need for excessive compute power decreases, then more companies in the value chain will start making money. AI will become much more distributedand if it doesnt, thats a problem, said Agrawal.

He added that while Nvidia is taking a financial hit in the short term, growth will return in the long run as AI adoption spreads further down the enterprise chain, creating fresh demand for its technology.

Most companies will not be able to replicate the foundational work that giants like Meta and Google have invested in to kickstart their AI journeys. Instead, Agrawal noted that industries such as telecoms will benefit from AI through SaaS providers, who will enhance their services with more affordable AI solutions.

Can DeepSeek continue its challenge to ChatGPT?

DeepSeek has shown remarkable ingenuity - so much so that OpenAIs chief executive, Sam Altman, has praised its ability to achieve so much with limited resources. However, Agrawal argued that DeepSeek wont be able to keep pace with ChatGPT in the long term, as US restrictions on selling advanced technology to Chinese firms continue to tighten.

DeepSeek claims they trained the model on a small pool of old Nvidia chipsets. To maintain that momentum, they will need access to higher-capability chips. It will be difficult for them to keep moving at the same pace without access to high-end chipsets, said Agrawal.

Whether DeepSeek is here to stay for the long term - or whether geopolitical tensions will cut its trajectory short - remains to be seen. What it has achieved with limited resources is nothing short of phenomenal (if its claims hold true).

DeepSeek has been a trigger for making AI more affordable for telecoms and other industries. We can expect to see more innovative applications and services from telecom players as global AI innovation continues. But how much of that progress will be hamstrung - or even accelerated - by geopolitical wrangling between the US and China? The coming months will offer a clearer picture as the AI landscape evolves at breakneck speed.
The Taliban has intensified its internet crackdown, triggering a nationwide connectivity blackout across Afghanistan.

Internet watchdog NetBlocks reported the country is now in the midst of a total internet blackout as Taliban authorities enforce new morality restrictions. Data showed just 14% of Afghans remained online on September 29, down sharply from 30% earlier the same day, underscoring the rapid pace of restrictions.

The blackout began almost two weeks ago in select provinces, with the Taliban gradually extending the cuts as part of a plan to ban fibre optic connectivity nationwide. A provincial spokesperson in Balkh - one of the first regions to lose access - said the measure was aimed at preventing vice, adding that alternative connectivity methods would be introduced.

Afghanistans 9,350km fibre network, now being sidelined, was largely built under the US-backed government prior to its collapse in 2021, when US and NATO forces withdrew and the Taliban seized power.
SpaceXs satellite division, Starlink, has disconnected more than 2,500 of its satellite kits that were being used by scammers operating in Myanmar.

In a post on X, Starlinks head of business operations, Lauren Dreyer, said the company had worked with law enforcement agencies to disable the devices located near suspected scam centres.

We are committed to ensuring the service remains a force for good and sustains trust worldwide - both connecting the unconnected and detecting and preventing misuse by bad actors, Dreyer said.

According to BBC News, more than 30 scam compounds are believed to be operating along the Thai-Myanmar border. These centres reportedly traffic people under the guise of legitimate employment, then force them - often through torture - to work long hours on online scams that generate tens of billions of dollars annually for criminal syndicates, many of which are believed to originate from China.

Most of the trafficking victims are from African countries, the report added.
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President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that the volume of applications from Ukrainians for UAH 1,000 within the framework of the Winter Support program has already reached a million.

"There are already the first million applications from Ukrainians in Diia for winter support. Among them, 106,000 applications for children. Funds for the program will be provided in full. It is important to support our people. I am grateful to the Diia team and all state digital services for their work. Glory to Ukraine," the president said in Telegram on Saturday.

Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko also said on the Telegram channel: "The first million applications for UAH 1,000 under the Winter Support program have been received. You can submit an application to Diia until December 24."

Earlier on Saturday, Diia reported the application may work unstable due to a heavy load on the registers due to the submission of applications for the payment of UAH 1,000 under the Winter Support program.

As of 16:00, Diia is still experiencing problems.

As reported, from November 15 to December 24, the government launched the opportunity for every citizen to apply in the Diia application or at a Ukrposhta branch to receive assistance in the amount of UAH 1,000 under the Winter Support program.

The funds can be used until June 30, 2026. The assistance can be spent on utilities, medicines, Ukrainian-made products, postal services, books, charity, and donations to the Defense Forces. At the same time, the assistance cannot be used to purchase excisable goods, and it is also prohibited to withdraw cash from a special account.

The government expects from 10 to 14 million recipients of one-time state cash assistance under the Winter Support program in the amount of UAH 1,000 for adults and children, as well as UAH 6,500 for the most vulnerable categories. Expected costs are UAH 14 billion.
Parents from Louth have spoken out about the lack of support and services for their young son with autism who was also recently diagnosed with ADHD.

David and Tina Maguire from Carlingford in Louth were on Kieran Cuddihy's first RTE Liveline show following Joe Duffy's retirement to speak out about the lack of support for their child Senan.

Senan is now 13-years-old and was diagnosed with autism when he was four-years-old and has had very little if any support for his complex needs, particularly around psychology services, they said.

His father David Maguire told Kieran on Liveline: "It's eleven years we are chasing supports for our little boy....we have been chasing psychology since December of 2014 and between then and now he has never had a one-on-one session with a psychologist."

David explained that in 2021 there was a psychologist who was engaged with him but they only spoke directly to his mother Tina or other family members. He said that no psychologist has directly spoken to his son.

David said that after Senan turned two the family started noticing little signs and red flags.

"Enable Ireland was the first to pick up on Senan's issues and told us to apply for a diagnosis....we moved to Carlingford in 2014 and since then we've been on the Louth services.

"From the first diagnosis in 2014 we are still chasing help for Senan....he never got one-on-one therapy."

David said that since moving to Louth they were "pushed back and pushed back" in trying to secure help for their son.

"I don't cry very often, Kieran, but me and Tina sat in our car in December 2014 and the both of us were bawling crying on our own. We realised that there was a list of excuses...a list of reasons to not help our little boy....from then on we started investing ourselves into our own little boy."

READ NEXT: Louth TD welcomes Operation Encompass to protect children affected by domestic violence

David said that Senan needs full-time care and 24-hour supervision.

He was suspended from school in January 2025 and then was expelled on World Autism Awareness Day on April 2025.

"It's led to the stage where he was sat at home from January to October...now thank God he is back in school...that's brilliant but he struggles everyday dealing with the world and a lot of people have failed us miserably and failed our little boy miserably."

David explained that because his son wasn't receiving the therapy he needs, they were waiting for the day something terrible happens like somebody getting terribly hurt.

Senan didn't speak until he was seven years old and his father said thank God he is speaking now because he has only received small blocks of speech therapy over the years.

David also explained that the family, including Senan's two other siblings, had lost their sister back in 2015 who was only four years old.

"Senan witnessed all of this....he was only six and a half at the time.....and not one hour of bereavement therapy has been given to him in that seven years since our little girl has passed.....he seen everything," he explained in a heartbreaking interview.

Senan's mother Tina also spoke on the show and said that whenever Senan has a meltdown he will shout for his little sister every time.

Tina said: "She died in my arms at home...there was no warning; it was acute sepsis. Senan came off the bus from school that day, he walked in and saw his little sister on the floor and people working on her.

"That was the start of Senan's self-harming; he started self-harming from the trauma. We didn't have time to get counselling for ourselves. Senan started lashing out from that moment on."

Tina said that life for her is full on and she can't work because caring for Senan is 24/7, even if he is in school in case something happens at school.

"We have zero social life, neighbours don't call, friends don't call because it's so busy here if Senan get's over stimulated. We don't go out...we get three restbites a month where we pretend we have a normal life. We spend time with the other two boys doing things that Senan can't do like going to the cinema or going into a restaurant; that's a luxury for us."

Tina said that having an autistic son with very little support has taken a huge toll on the family.

"It's sad, if you look at the statistics the amount of broken or failed marriages; couples falling apart because there is so much strain. You don't have time for each other. Myself and Dave, if we are lucky, we get out once a year. We go for dinner for our anniversary or one of our birthdays."

Tina said that the system is 'a failure' and feels sorry for the parents who have children that are diagnosed with autism and have to go down the road that her and her family have gone through to try and get support.

"It's not fit for purpose," she said, "when you do get to the top of these queues and you do get your therapy, we've been there and done that, when Dave said he got speech therapy; it was five or six non-verbal students in a classroom, no teacher present, no parent present....that was the only speech therapy he got."
Locals in Louth have generated 9,491 Christmas shoebox gifts for children affected by poverty over the last three years and helped a charity pass the 3million mark nationally in time for Christmas.

Since 2010, Team Hope has delivered over 2.8million shoebox gifts from Ireland to countries across Africa and Eastern Europe - and will ship off its three-millionth in the coming weeks.

The charitys figures show that in the last three years, kind-hearted donors in Louth have created almost 10,000 gifts.

And there is still time to increase that total  with drop-off points open around the county until 15th November.

The support we have received from the people of Louth since 2010 has been incredible, said Team Hope CEO, Deborah Lowry.

But theres always a need for more shoeboxes so it would be great if schools, parents, businesses and community groups across the county can come together for one last push to create their own.

They are often packed by children for children and carry not only toys and treats but also the invisible gifts of love and hope.

That kindness, travelling across oceans, reminds a child that they are not forgotten  that someone, somewhere cares about them.

Surpassing the magical 3million shoebox mark ties in with the charitys 15th anniversary of bringing happiness to children in some of the poorest parts of the world, many of whom have never experienced the joy of Christmas.

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Everyone in Louth is urged to continue the effort - filled shoeboxes can be dropped off until November 15 at The Mill Enterprise Hub, Greenhills, Drogheda, Dundalk FM, Axa Insurance, Drogheda, Dealz, Drogheda Town Centre, and to local volunteer Vanessa Harte.

Donors, if they prefer, can choose to send a personalised 25 shoebox online through Team Hopes website, right up until Christmas Eve.

To get involved, see www.teamhope.ie
Photo Caption: Dromiskin Village, represented by Dromiskin Tidy Towns committee, were runners up in the Population 1000-2000 category at the 2025 IPB Pride of Place Awards. Pictured at the awards were (L-R) Carol Dunbar, Co-operation Ireland; David Conway, Chief Executive, Louth County Council; Liam Reilly, Dromiskin Tidy Towns; Cllr Sean Kelly, Cathaoirleach, Louth County Council; John Kearns, CEO, IPB Insurance; Mary Murtagh, Dromiskin Tidy Towns; Pat Farrell, Co-operation Ireland; Finbar Gethins, Senior Executive Officer, Louth County Council; Joanna Kelly, Director of Services, Louth County Council; Marie Mulligan, Dromiskin Tidy Towns; and Pat Mulligan, Dromiskin Tidy Towns.

Louth projects Boyne Valley Camino and Dromiskin Village, represented by Dromiskin Tidy Towns, were awarded runners-up in their respective categories at the prestigious IPB Pride of Place Awards.

The Boyne Valley Camino was recognised in the Community Tourism Initiative category, while Dromiskin Village was recognised in the Population 1,0002,000 category. The awards ceremony, often referred to as the Oscars of the Community Sector, took place on Friday evening, 7th November, at the Limerick Strand Hotel and was hosted by comedian Dermot Whelan.

Both projects have made significant contributions to their communities, showcasing innovation, collaboration, and a deep commitment to enhancing local life and tourism.

Now in its 24th year, the IPB Pride of Place Awards celebrate the tireless efforts of community groups across the island of Ireland. Sponsored by IPB Insurance and coordinated by Co-operation Ireland, the competition recognises the invaluable work of volunteers who strive to make their communities better places to live, work, and visit. This year, 86 groups were nominated by 34 local authorities.

Cllr. Sean Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, praised the achievements of both groups, stating:

Boyne Valley Camino group were runners up in the Community Tourism Initiative category at the 2025 IPB Pride of Place Awards. Pictured at the awards were (L-R) David Conway, Chief Executive, Louth County Council; Pat Coffey, Boyne Valley Camino Volunteer; Dusty Flanagan, Boyne Valley Camino Volunteer; Aine Walsh, Boyne Valley Camino Volunteer; John Kearns, CEO, IPB Insurance; Cllr Sean Kelly, Cathaoirleach, Louth County Council; Carol Dunbar, Co-operation Ireland; Joanna Kelly, Director of Services, Louth County Council; and Finbar Gethins, Senior Executive Officer, Louth County Council;

Louth has a proud tradition of community spirit and volunteerism, and it is inspiring to see that reflected in the outstanding work of both groups. Their dedication, creativity, and commitment to making a positive difference have had a real impact on the lives of others. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each group for their achievements and for representing County Louth with such pride. Their success is a true reflection of the resilience, generosity, and unity that define our community.

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, also extended his congratulations, highlighting the countys strong performance in the competition:

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The Boyne Valley Camino and Dromiskin Tidy Towns have demonstrated what can be achieved when communities come together with a shared vision and commitment to making their areas better for everyone. Their recognition at a national level is well deserved and reflects the passion, creativity, and hard work of all involved.

"These projects not only enhance the quality of life for local residents but contribute to the cultural and tourism offering of our county. Pride of Place is a wonderful competition which showcases all that is best and innovative in communities throughout the island of Ireland and one we will continue to support.
Eight new Gardai have been assigned to Louth as part of the 194 recruits graduating from Templemore today bringing the total number of new Gardai this year to over 600.

One will be stationed in Ardee, four will be stationed in Drogheda, and three will be stationed in Dundalk.

Fianna Fail TD for Louth, Erin McGreehan, welcomed the attestation of the new Gardai to County Louth, saying it marks another positive step in strengthening community policing and public safety.

Todays passing out ceremony at Templemore saw 194 new Gardai take up posts across the country with major allocations to Dublin and Cork.

This class is the largest since 2019 and includes 57 women and 137 men. 17 garda reserves have also graduated.

Since the appointment of Minister for Justice, Jim OCallaghan two successful Garda recruitment campaigns have been completed, attracting over 11,100 applications in total.

Following the announcement, Deputy McGreehan said:

Im delighted to see real momentum building when it comes to Garda recruitment and the allocation of new members to communities across the country. The Minister has made Garda recruitment a top priority since taking office, and we are now seeing the results of that focus.

"The 8 newly deployed Gardai to Louth 1 will be stationed in Ardee, 4 will be stationed in Drogheda, and 3 will be stationed in Dundalk.

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This is ultimately about restoring public confidence in our Garda force and ensuring they have the resources they need by getting more Gardai on the beat in every community. The best way to strengthen public trust and ensure people feel safe is through greater Garda visibility and accessibility in our towns and villages.

This year, for the first time, there were two Garda recruitment competitions. The February campaign attracted 6,784 applicants, while the October campaign received 4,334 applications. Notably, 57% of the October applicants were first-time candidates.
National Broadband Ireland (NBI), the company delivering high-speed Fibre-to-the-Home network under the National Broadband Plan (NBP) on behalf of the Government, has announced that construction is underway to deliver high-speed broadband to almost 1,600 Louth premises in its Ardee deployment area. The includes the rural surrounds and townlands of Ardee, Stabannan and Collon.

9,000 premises in Co Louth are included in the States Intervention Area, which will see NBI deliver minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second to homes, businesses, farms, and schools. As the biggest investment in rural Ireland since rural electrification, Co Louth will receive 33m of Government investment under the National Broadband Plan.

With survey and design phases now complete, high-speed fibre cabling is now being installed for 1,577 Louth premises in the Ardee deployment area, with connections to services expected to be available by summer next year.

Works have already been completed in other parts of Louth, including the rural surrounds of Dundalk and Drogheda. There is a total of 5,447 premises that can now pre-order or order high-speed, reliable broadband across the county with 2,641 connections made so far.

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Network build works are also continuing across Louth with build works in progress for over 1,600 premises near the Togher deployment area, due to be connected by the end of next year. Signing up to the NBI email notifications at nbi.ie is the easiest way to get the most up-to-date status of premises during the rollout and when premises will be ready for order.

TJ Malone, Chief Executive Officer, National Broadband Ireland, said: Our teams are making excellent progress in Co Louth and were pleased to see fibre build works underway in the Ardee deployment area.

Our overarching goal is to improve digital connectivity across the country. With minimum internet speed of 500 megabites per second, this new Fibre-to-the-Home network will play a pivotal role in sustaining local businesses and communities."

As a wholesale network operator, NBI does not sell fibre broadband directly to end users, rather it enables services from a range of broadband providers or Retail Service Providers (RSPs). As a wholesale provider, NBI will make the new Fibre-to-the-Home network available to all RSPs operating in the Intervention Area.

Some 72 RSPs have already signed up to sell services on the NBI network and 66 are certified to provide connections as of today. To see the retail broadband providers that are currently licensed to sell on the NBI network, visit nbi.ie.
When Nevilles shop, a cornerstone of North Main Street, Youghal celebrated a remarkable milestone this month; marking 80 years in business, messages and recollections of lovely memories, from people near and far, came thick and fast.

Our 80th anniversary was on November 1, Dads birthday! says Pauline Neville, marvelling at the happy coincidence.

Nevilles has always been a sociable place for a friendly chat.

We got one message from a man in the States that we had a good laugh over, says Pauline, who runs the drapery shop with her sister, Ann, specialising in ladies and mens fashion, childrenswear, household textiles, school uniforms, and personalised embroidery.

What was the cause of such merriment when the 80th anniversary celebrations were in full swing?

The man calling us from the USA, told us that he remembered his mother bringing him into Nevilles shop to get fitted out for his First Communion suit, says Pauline, who is also an artist of note.

He said that he remembered he was in his underwear in the middle of the floor, no such thing as a changing room or any privacy, while various trousers and jackets were brought to his mother for her perusal.

The man, now a grandfather, who felt he had to contact the Neville sisters to congratulate them on the occasion of their 80th anniversary, remembered something else.

All the women in the shop, including your mother and my mother, were standing around chatting and smoking cigarettes!

Pauline and Ann exchange looks and winks that suggest that this really was the case.

Back in the day when Fair Day was on the Green, Fairfield, across the road, wed have lots of women shopping in town that day and they would often sit on a chair outside the shop counter and have a chat and a laugh together, says Ann.

For a lot of people, shopping in Nevilles was a social highlight. On Fair Days the men would treat their wives to a new dress or skirt. That caused great excitement!

Everyone put in their twopence-halfpenny making a choice of purchase in bygone days. We all had our opinion in the style of dress and what would look well and what would go with a chosen outfit. We were in our element!

Everyone engaged in the hub of social activity.

Gossip was never a thing, says Ann.

The local women genuinely wanted to have a good chat with each other about all the happenings around that time and about members of their families; where they were, what they were doing.

That hasnt changed much up to the present day.

Some things have changed.

Sometimes the mothers might leave their child outside the shop in the buggy while they went next door, says Ann.

They would ask us to keep an eye on the child and we duly obliged. That wouldnt happen now!

The enthusiastic shoppers enjoyed other things together back in the day.

A few of the ladies indulged in smoking fags when they were allowed to smoke indoors, says Ann.

Fair Day was a day to celebrate, when animals were sold and deals were done, says Ann.

Ann and Pauline Neville of Nevilles pictured at one of the counters at their store in Youghal. Picture: Howard Crowdy

Another 80th anniversary message divulged that the first stock of oilskins in Nevilles were sought after from the hard-working men of east Cork.

Mr Power said he got his first oilskins here in the shop from daddy. They lasted forever!

William Neville was a man of his time.

He was a people person, proud of his profession, and proud of his corner on North Main Street.

Daddy stocked everything from a thimble to overalls, says Ann.

Most of the local men got their work gear here as well as their good wear.

When William Neville purchased on North Main Street in Youghal in 1945; he bought the most expensive shop on the street.

The premises cost 1,200, says Ann.

Entering Nevilles is like going back in time.

It has that old-age familiar shop atmosphere where you feel free to browse, and to interact with Ann and Pauline, who take the time to make you feel right at home.

Over the decades, measurements were taken for curtains, the towels for wedding gifts were purchased, and fashionable outfits were assembled.

I remember putting lengths of lining for suits together with mam to send to the tailor, says Pauline.

The sisters have the shop well-laid out with their wares.

And yes! There are two changing rooms to try on the array of fashionable clothes and other lovely apparel.

Going back 80 years, the original wooden floor is still intact, as is the original solid mahogany counter.

The floor and counter have lasted this long without any major marking or deterioration, says Ann.

It is amazing.

Here, men got fitted out for the good suit, ladies got fitted out for the costume, or the outfit for the mother of the bride.

Was William Neville always a draper and a businessman?

Dad was from farming stock in Ballynoe, says Ann.

His wife, Kathleen, was from Leamlara.

William and Kathleen made a good team.

They learned the trade together.

The couple were traditional people.

Mam and Dad got married in St. Patricks Church in Cork and they had their wedding reception in the Metropole Hotel before heading to Dublin on honeymoon, says Ann.

The Nevilles had five daughters; Bridget, Mary, Bernadette, Ann, and Pauline.

Mary, who sadly passed away age 51 from cancer in 2009, was a born shopkeeper.

After school, Mary would just drop her sack and head straight to the shop, says Ann.

Mary had no interest in school!

She loved the shop and everything to do with it. The customers loved her. Mary was a born shopkeeper.

I admire the lovely photograph of Mary hanging up over the shop counter.

Ann and Pauline, like their sister, Mary, are born shopkeepers too.

They do all their buying for the shop together and they know their local customers by their first names.

Our customers come from Youghal, east Cork, Cork, West Waterford and Tallow.

The sisters set a good trend.

The grandchildren of former customers who came here in buggies, now come to shop with their own children!

Being beside the seaside in sweet Youghal bay, is a great asset for trade.

When covid happened and people could only travel 5km outside of their own county, everyone headed to the seaside, says Ann.

We were really busy!

Reminiscing about a family business that has lasted 80 years and still going strong, the sisters recall tales of yore.

Growing up daddy told us all about the film Moby Dick that was made here in the town, says Ann.

He told us all about the famous film stars who arrived in Youghal like Gregory Peck. Our neighbour was an extra in the film. That was a big deal!

It was a big deal when a prize bull destined for sale at Fairfield took a fancy to the shop window on North Main Street.

The bull escaped from across the road, says Ann.

He was finally rounded up!

The old worlde charm of Nevilles is alive and well.

Why has Nevilles, a cornerstone in North Main Street Youghal, lasted so long?

Ann and Pauline exchange knowing looks.

It is in our blood.